An Awkward, First Something

by talkstopaintings

[Modern AU] Elsa and Anna, college classmates, begin a tentative, awkward relationship. Memories, expectations, and self-worth — this is a first for them both.

14. A Frantic, First Preparation

A/N: Again, I deeply apologize for the long delay between chapters. I won't bore you with saying IRL things got in the way because that's not why we're here. I'll just say that this chapter is quite fast-paced! And the pace of the story is going to be picking up too. So stick with me everyone, we've passed the start line!

Thank you all for the 175+ reviews, 400+ favorites, and 700+ follows! I really appreciate all the attention on such a small-scale story. Enjoy!

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"Eugene!"

Her fist rammed hard on the wood, the loud knocking echoing down the hallway, surely waking up anyone within hearing distance. At any other time she would have cringed at how disturbing she was being, but this was an emergency.

She was desperate!

"Eugene!" Anna hissed again, bouncing on her feet. She felt frantic, her face flushed from jumping out of bed, running through the dorm, and coming to a halt in front of her friend's door. When she didn't hear any scuffling footsteps beyond the wood, she bit her lip and knocked much more rapidly. "Eugene! Eugene Fitzherbert, wake up! Wake up!"

What time was it even?

Anna glanced down at her wristwatch. The tiny screen glowed a neon green and with the lighting she could see it was a quarter past two. She chewed on her lower lip, brow furrowed, and clenched her fists. Raising her left hand, she knocked a few more times, her fist still insistent, but soft now.

"Flynn!" she hissed, eyes wide and pleading, squaring her feet a foot apart to stop her dancing. She had to stop herself from creating a hole in front of her friend's dorm. "It's me, Anna! I need your help! I'm serious here Eugene. Come out and—"

The door flew open, a pair of hazy, brown eyes glaring at her.

"God, Anna what is it?! I have a math final soon and I just went to bed after five hours of staring at numbers! Unless you've got a good enough reason to be here, I don't understand why you can't just bother Rapunzel!"

Eugene gripped the door tightly, hair disbelieved and dressed in a loose shirt and sweats. The t-shirt had a duckling on it and she would have laughed at seeing him in it if she hadn't immediately grabbed the collar to shake him.

"I need your advice! I was falling asleep in bed, when I suddenly remembered !" Anna exclaimed, eyes still wide in desperation. Her childhood friend let out a choked noise at the constant motion of her jittery grip on him. "And I realized I have no experience in this situation!" She stood on her toes, trembling, and leaned toward his face. Her skin was still flushed, but new sweat began to bead on her forehead from panic. "I mean, okay it's not the first time I've celebrated an anniversary, but this is Elsa! And I don't know what to do or what to get her and we kissed! Oh god, we kissed for the first time! And it was really short and kind of small, but it was amazing Eugene! So amazing and—oh god we kissed! W-we actually kissed?! Oh no, what am I gonna do?! I'm in too deep Eugene, I'm drowning! I'm going overboard! I'm—"

"Wait it took you girls a month to kiss?"

Anna paused in her rambling and shot him a dirty look, hands dropping from where they'd moved to clutch at her face. "Yes Eugene Fitzherbert, it took us a month to kiss. I didn't want to mess things up by rushing it, I mean have you met Elsa?! Don't answer that by the way. It's just- she's so—" she waved her hands in the air in odd, circular motions "—proper. Um, sophisticated? Reserved?"

Eugene's bemused face fell and he chuckled nervously.

She sighed and moved to grip the front of his shirt again, fingers tightening on the fabric.

Distant sometimes? Scared?

"Hey. Hey Anna listen."

Eugene grabbed her hands and clasped them firmly, pushing Anna back to settle on her feet. "Now is not the time to practice melodramatic lines. Look, it's okay. It's okay, I'll help you." He let go of her hands and grasped her shoulders, squeezing reassuringly and flashing her a smirk. "You've been through this before, remember Red?"

Anna shook under his hands, eyes still wide. Her fingers trembled and she flexed them uselessly in front of her chest. "U-uh yeah, but that was with Hans—"

He grimaced and she fought the urge to do so as well, insides coiling.

"—so you know this is way different. I mean, I know some things that Elsa really likes, but, what does she like?" If possible, her eyes grew wider and he gently rubbed one shoulder in response, smirk softening into a smile. "I- this is the first time I've ever wanted something to go right so badly for a change," she whispered and Eugene blinked once. She saw the earlier annoyance evaporate completely from his face. Wordlessly, he tugged her into a hug and she mumbled into his chest, "I don't want to screw this up."

He stroked her hair and she sniffed. Exhaustion swept over her body and the late nights, rainy weather, and run from her own dorm to his suddenly caught up to her.

"Ugh, I'm a mess Eugene," Anna grumbled, jutting out her lower lip in a pout.

He scoffed and rolled his eyes, smile curving back into a pout. "You're so dramatic Red, but that's why I'm here. I'm your wingman and I'm going to make sure no mess ups happen." He pulled back and his brown eyes were so sincere she couldn't help but let a little smile quiver on her lips. "Not this time anyway. We're going to get you that happy ending."

Anna chucked slightly and raised one hand to scrub her eyes. "A little fast there, don't you think so Rider?"

Eugene laughed and squeezed her shoulder. "Maybe, but you like fast right?"

Anna snorted, her energy returning. "I think I'm going to take Kristoff's advice and be cautious here."

Eugene shrugged and let go of her shoulders. A warmth was left over her pajama shirt at the disappearance of his hands. She knew in her heart that he was only trying to cheer her up. He had always been that way, either distracting her with a dare on their bicycles or reading a story to her and the other children when they had been growing up.

This big old softie. He has every right to be mad at me for waking him up so early in the morning and yet here he is trying to help me out. I'm definitely getting him something good when I get my next paycheck.

"If you say so Anna," and his voice snapped her out of her thoughts.

She nodded and aimed a smile at Eugene. He returned it and the tension in the air left. She relaxed, smiling softly down at their feet, two pairs of identical slippers Rapunzel had bought for them.

"That's not surprising is it?" she mumbled, eyes glazing over. "Me being cautious?"

"It totally is," Eugene said. She snapped her gaze up and glared at him, cheeks flushing in annoyance now. "Oh come on, don't give me that look! You know it's unlike you. You? Being serious." He put his hands on his hips, leaning his weight on one foot. "Kind of off-putting Red."

Acting like me last time didn't help though. It just ended. Badly.

Anna tensed again and looked down, hands falling to her sides. She clenched them into fists, feeling her stomach twist and turn. She was suddenly aware of the cold, night air around her. It sunk under her shirt and down her back, making her shiver.

"I don't want to screw this up," she whispered again, shoulders drooping.

Eugene's hands were on them again, squeezing softly. "Hey, Anna. No, no, I didn't meant it like that." His thumbs drew small circles into her shirt and she glanced up, lower lip quivering. He gave her a half-smile, brow furrowing. "I'll admit, you acting like Mister Grumps is really, really weird for me. Only one person should be like that in the whole world and that's him. I mean, next thing I know, you'll be smelling like him if you keep up like this." She laughed at that, though it came out out more choked. His lips twitched and she could see a teasing glint enter his eye. "Okay, I don't think anyone but Kristoff is capable of smelling that. But what I'm trying to get at is..."

He raised one hand and patted her hair. A tenderness that was very reminiscent of how he looked at Rapunzel entered his eyes. Anna blinked back tears at his gaze. She bit her lip, the edges curling up just slightly.

"I think Elsa would really like it if you acted more like you, than anyone else."

The warmth that had been fading on her shoulders bloomed again and spread through her body. Her arms and feet tingled. Her cheeks reddened and she fought back the smile that threatened to take over her face at the thought of Elsa.

He's right and I know he's right. Elsa has been liking me for me. Right? I mean, we finally kissed too. Would it be so bad?

Her stomach fluttered and she shifted her weight.

But then remember what happened with—

She shut the thought down before it could even finish. Anna inhaled and exhaled, flexing her fingers.

"I'm still going slower this time."

"Damn, you're serious," Eugene said, eyes widening.

Anna giggled and tucked a strand of hair behind her locked away the foreboding feeling in her chest. "Well, I think we've established that things are different this time around, and established it many, many times over by now, so I thought listening to Kristoff—" he rolled his eyes and she stuck out her tongue at him, "—for a change would be good."

"Wow, you are serious!" He laughed and she blushed darkly.

"Oh, quiet. You'll wake up Aladdin if you keep being so loud," she grumbled and crossed her arms.

"Already done," came a sleepy mumble from behind Eugene.

Anna's whole face flushed and she shuffled her feet as Eugene glanced over his shoulder. She grinned sheepishly when he turned back to face her and smirked.

"Sorry Al!" She lifted her hand in a tiny wave even though Eugene's roommate couldn't see. "I really didn't mean for this to happen so late."

"It's 'kay," Aladdin replied and she heard him roll around in his bed. "But if Jasmine asks why I look like a deadbeat rat in the morning again, I'm telling her what went on."

Her blush darkened and Eugene snickered. Anna could swear the tips of her fingers went red.

"Oh shut up," she said, cheeks puffed in anger. Even when Eugene slapped his hand over his mouth to stifle his laughter, she could still hear it echo in the quiet hallway and see his eyes glint with obvious humor. Anna blew at her fringe irritably and punched him half-heartedly on his bicep. He yelped and rubbed the spot, glaring at her. She fiddled with the end of her shirt. "Sorry, I just- well, c'mon you guys! I need help."

Anna looked at up Eugene with large, pleading eyes again. He blinked before smiling again, slight worry evident on his face from the crease of his forehead.

"Don't worry, I got your back covered Red." He wrapped his arm around her shoulders again and gave her a one-armed hug. "Me and the girl-" Eugene glanced at her with an inquisitive eyebrow and she giggled, nodding, "-and the girls! Will help you find the best gift possible for Miss Arendelle!"

She giggled softly again and returned the hug, pressing her cheek into his chest. He patted her head and she felt as if she were five again.

Eugene glanced over his shoulder, raising his voice just a bit. "Right Al?"

"'M not goin'" came the annoyed huff. "Last time I went shopping with everyone, I nearly got my hand cut off. So thanks, but no thanks."

The two exchanged glances, laughing awkwardly. However, when Eugene yawned and she saw fatigue flash over his face, Anna clasped his elbow and gave him a reassuring, small smile.

"Do you want to talk in the morning?" She bit her lip. "It is rather late."

He shrugged and his head lolled to the side. "Call me at six? I know a few hidden gems in the city."

Anna nodded and wrapped her arms around him, nuzzling his shoulder. "Goodnight Eugene."

She heard him sigh and then felt his arms around her slim shoulders, returning the embrace.

"Night, Red." As they parted and he stumbled back into his dorm, he mumbled something. "Still think being yourself is the best gift."

Anna's heart thudded painfully in her chest as the door clicked shut.

x x x

The morning light that filtered in from the open window was weak and silvery. It was slightly breezy, but when she cracked open one eye to peer at the curtains, she noticed the sun shining through the gray clouds.

Not a drop of rain in sight.

Elsa sighed and stretched, arms and legs extending as far as they would go. She squealed and then hummed contentedly when she heard a few pops from her tired limbs. It was Thursday, which meant she had business and architecture class at noon. A glance at the clock confirmed it was only a little past seven. She mentally rolled the days in her mind, wondering if she had an appointment with her therapist or her psychiatrist.

Let me think. I went last week after dropping Anna at her dorm and then I had another visit when I checked up on her on Monday. So, I think a weekend appointment would be fine. I can call and reschedule it! I've already renewed my subscription so—

—she was completely and utterly free to do as she wished for the morning.

Which meant basking in what had occurred between her and Anna.

Elsa squealed again and rolled onto her back, toes curling and hands grabbing her messy braid. She played with it and she stared up at the ceiling of her bedroom, knees bending. I can't believe that actually happened! Her feet bounced in the air. She couldn't contain the excitement that bubbled and fluttered in her chest. I wanted to kiss her so much and we- we actually did! We kissed! We finally kissed!

A giggle burst from her throat. Elsa's cheeks flushed pink and she wriggled in place, shivers dancing down her spine. Maybe I'll tell everyone the news when I see them this weekend. Her cheeks flushed darker and she stilled, blinking when she recalled Tiana and Belle's teasing earlier that day. She gulped and her fingers fiddled with the end of her plait. Although I think those two will be able to guess the moment they see me. Well, it'll be a surprise for Aurora that's for sure. And I still have to tell Meg.

Speaking of Meg...

Elsa turned over in her bed, eyebrows rising when she noticed the other, empty bed in the room. The sheets were rumpled and pulled back, which meant that the bed had at least been slept in. So either Meg had gotten up just recently or she had fallen off of it again. Elsa rose from her position and slid to the edge of her bed, feet immediately slipping into her comfortable slippers. She walked over to her friend's bed and peered around it.

Nothing. Elsa's eyebrows rose higher. Meg hadn't fallen off the bed this time in a drunken stupor.

The blonde blinked and exited their shared bedroom, ears attentive. When she opened the door and glanced up and down the hallway, she noticed that she couldn't hear any running water.

And no pots and pans either. So Meg isn't showering and she definitely isn't cooking. Did she get up to go visit Hercules early today?

A thump and groan from the living room made her jump.

Elsa rushed into the living room, eyes widening when she saw a familiar, disgruntled brunette lying down on the floor next to the couch. One violet eye peeked open and glared sleepily at her. Elsa blinked, a slight, amused smile curling on the edges of her lips. She wrapped her arms around her torso as Meg fumbled on the floor before giving up and plopping back down on it.

"Morning sleepy," Elsa giggled. "What are you doing out here in the living room? You were in bed when I got home last night. You didn't go to the bar after I fell asleep did you?"

Meg grunted and buried her face in the purple blanket she had brought over from their bedroom. "No that would require you actually falling asleep." The brunette curled up, rolling onto her side. "I distinctly remember that wasn't the case Blondie."

Elsa frowned, walking over to sit on the couch near her roommate. "What do you mean?" she asked, tilting her head.

Meg snickered and rose up on one elbow, balancing her head on it. "Well, it's just that you, my dear, intelligent, quiet, and ever so thoughtful roommate," sarcasm dripped from every word and she raised an eyebrow pointedly, "were up for several hours giggling into the night while staring at your phone like a schoolgirl after being looked at by the so-called hottest, preppiest, and most unnecessarily popular jock."

"Oh, ew," Elsa scrunched up her nose, staring down at her roommate disdainfully. "Meg, you're exaggerating. I wasn't up that late and I was most certainly not acting so improper."

Meg blinked, eyebrow still quirked. "Elsa you're not subtle about this."

For emphasis, she reached up onto the coffee table and swiped her phone from on top it. Elsa blinked several times as the brunette flipped through her options before lifting it up for her to see. The blonde's face paled slowly and then reddened considerably when she saw a short video clip of her giggling furiously on her bed while staring at her phone, cheeks bunched up in delight.

"I had enough time to capture a whole minute of you and not once did you notice me recording," Meg said, smirking and placing her phone back on the table. She settled both elbows on the floor and her smirk turned cheeky. "So, how was the kiss?"

If possible, her blush increased. Elsa coughed and looked away, staring out the large glass windows to observe the pale, bright sky. "I don't know what you're talking about," she mumbled, wrapping her arms tighter around her slender frame.

A long, bony finger poked her in the ankle and then pinched the skin there. She yelped when the nail prodded her skin.

"Meg, honestly!" Elsa huffed, lower lip jutting out in a pout despite trying her best to maintain her collected persona. "You don't need to resort to childish antics."

"Then spill Blondie," the brunette replied, violet eyes twinkling. "Like I said, you're not subtle. And definitely not experienced enough to hide things from me when it comes to personal relationships. I just showed you a whole video of you acting like a teenager."

Elsa stuck out her tongue, gently poking Meg in the side with her slipper. "Experience has nothing to do with this Meg."

Meg played with one of the fuzzy threads on her shoes and scoffed gently. She held up three fingers with her other hand and began to tick them off. "First date that's not a business or social set-up by your parents. Something that you agreed to on your own terms, which includes lunch and movie and the first time you've ever been picked up," despite herself, Elsa hummed and nodded to each one, distracted, "first girlfriend of course, first relationship with anyone ever to be exact, first kiss, first- what am I missing?"

By now, Elsa wished she had stopped by the kitchen to make a cup of coffee or tea before looking for Meg. She wrung her hands together, a slight smile curling on her lips.

"First anniversary," she said offhandedly. "It'll be this Friday, same day as our first lunch date."

"Oh." Meg shifted on the floor, propping herself into a sitting position at last. She leaned against the couch and idly tapped a long fingernail on it. "That's sweet. What are you planning on getting Anna for it?"

"Mm, I haven't decided yet." Elsa stood up for her seat, brushing her plait over her shoulder and turning in the direction of the bathroom. All the while, she muttered absentmindedly, "I was considering something like jewelry or a silver brand watch, but I'm not sure if Anna even likes those kinds of things."

She was halfway down the hall when it hit her.

Elsa froze, hands stilling in front of her. She blinked, blue eyes widening to the size of dinner plates. Her eyebrows shot up to her hairline as her mind took several steps back and replayed the short conversation between her and Meg.

Wait. First girlfriend. First relationship. First anniversary.

An anniversary that was tomorrow and she hadn't even decided on what to get said girlfriend for said celebration.

Elsa swayed before rushing back into her bedroom. She heard Meg stand up in surprise, calling down the hallway, "Elsa! What's wrong?"

The blonde fumbled in her drawer, grabbing her medication from inside and swiping her phone off the bed. She ran back out, heading to the bathroom while screaming, "I have no idea what I'm doing Meg!"

She slid into the bathroom, arms flailing as she placed down her medication and phone and fumbled with her toothbrush. She spread the toothpaste over it as Meg poked her head in, one eyebrow quirked. The mechanical piece whirled to life as Elsa continued to yell, voice muffled by the minty mixture and her frantic scrubbing, "I can't believe it just slipped my mind!"

"Technically, you did remember," Meg quipped, leaning against the doorway and crossing her arms. She smirked when the blonde shot her a look. "But you're unprepared? Not the first time you've been unprepared about something."

Elsa furiously moved her brush back and forth, rolling her eyes. "A business project presentation or finishing up an architectural piece is not the same thing as realizing you forgot to actually get something for your girlfriend. For your one-month anniversary. That is tomorrow."

Surprise flashed over the brunette's face. "Woah, G-word right out of your mouth. You're serious about this."

Elsa glanced at her, brow creased and eyes flickering in confusion. "What's that supposed to mean?" she asked around her brush.

"Well, there's serious you," Meg began, gesturing with one finger, "the one who will stay up late every night when working on a project even if said project isn't due for weeks." Her smirk grew larger, violet eyes flashing with a knowing sparkle. "And then there's this serious you. Who just admitted she has a girlfriend without stuttering, twitching, or faltering." She winked. "Even with a little bite to her. I think my baby's growing up."

Elsa coughed and her cheeks reddened. She turned back to the mirror, trying to ignore the heat on her face. "Not falling for your teasing."

Meg rolled in her eyes, groaning. "I take that back, not fully grown yet."

"Ha ha," Elsa grumbled. "I'm falling over laughing."

Meg shrugged and Elsa spat. She rinsed her mouth as the brunette grabbed a hairbrush from the shelf where they kept their accessories. Her fingers deftly undid the blonde's messy braid as Elsa uncapped her medication. The brush began to straighten out any knots as Elsa swallowed her prescribed dosage.

Her hands shook as she reached for her make-up kit, stammering, "I haven't really thought about what to get her and it's tomorrow! I need to get dressed and go shopping! I can't believe I was just going to lie in bed all morning."

Meg clicked her tongue behind her, brush still weaving through her hair. "You'll think of something Elsa." She reached for another hair tie and began to thread the white-gold locks into Elsa's signature braid. "And besides, I'm sure Anna's going to love whatever you get her even if it's something completely and utterly corny like those promise rings and stupid shit like that."

Elsa laughed weakly, cheeks pink. She swept the brush of her favorite eye shadow on her skin and then grabbed a tube of mascara. "How can you be so certain?"

Meg snorted and stepped back, turning to the doorway. "That girl looks as if she would be happy with anything."

Elsa's stomach twisted and she frowned in the mirror. Something about the comment caused an uncomfortable feeling to churn inside her, but she couldn't place why.

"I don't want to get her just anything," she mumbled, eyes flicking back and forth in thought. "I want it to be meaningful."

Especially after we shared our first kiss just the other day.

Meg hummed and exited the bathroom, long ponytail swishing as she headed towards the kitchen. "Everyone wants it to be meaningful Elsa. That goes without saying. Knowing you two mushy-gushy lovebirds, it's going to be. So like I said, enjoy the ride."

The blonde heard the sound of pots being moved.

"What do you want in your coffee?" Meg called.

"Black!" Elsa replied as she grabbed her bottle of medication and hurried back into the bedroom. She placed it in her bag and rushed to her closet, voice rising two octaves as she said, "Are you going to come with me to the mall? I need a second opinion. Even if you think Anna will like whatever I get her, I still want to be thoughtful about this!"

She pulled off her night robe and rummaged in the closet. The blonde fiddled with a white button up shirt and a knee-length, beige pleated skirt.

"Can't!" Meg called back. "I've gotta get to work in like an hour or so, so you're going to have to take someone else or go by yourself!"

Elsa bit her lip and exited the bedroom, making sure to kick off her slippers by the bed.

"You driving or do you want me to drop you off?" Meg's voice drifted from the kitchen as Elsa hurried back into the bathroom.

"I think I'm going to ask Belle and see if she's free today." She checked herself in her mirror again, looking to see if her make-up was applied correctly. Her palms were beginning to sweat and she smoothed down her skirt several times to keep her hands busy. "I still have a couple of hours before my classes start. If I can't finish in time, I'll go after class."

What else am I forgetting?

She frowned, glanced down, and noticed the lack of her purse. "Oh, right!"

The blonde rushed out just as Meg came down the hallway, holding two cups of coffee.

"I'm sure you'll find something in those hours," the brunette said, smirking as Elsa rushed every which way in their condo. She dropped off the blonde's coffee mug on her nightstand before heading into the bathroom herself, likely to clean up.

Elsa grabbed her purse, rifling through it to see if she had everything before grabbing the steaming cup. She took a sip and was immensely gratified when the hot, bitter liquid flowed down her throat. The blonde sighed happily, not at all scalded from the freshly boiled coffee and walked to the living room.

"I'm leaving Meg! I'll see you when I get home!"

She was reaching for her heels, slipping them on her bare feet when a sharp whistle made her turn. Meg was holding her phone in hand, a smirk on her features.

"Don't forget this Blondie. You kind of need it to call Belle and keep in contact with people."

Elsa laughed once, sheepish and ears tipped pink. She clicked the toes of her heels against the wooden floor before striding back over to Meg. The brunette handed her phone over, but not before flicking her on the forehead with her thumb and forefinger.

"Ouch! What was that for?" Elsa asked as she pocketed her phone.

"Nothing. I just wanted to do it," Meg said, crossing her arms. Her face softened a bit when Elsa rubbed the spot and glared at her. "Don't stress yourself out. Remember what I said? Enjoy the ride."

Elsa blinked before smiling slightly, shoulders drooping. "Right."

I think it's more than a ride at this point.

x x x

I think this is one of my worst ideas yet. Still doesn't beat the time I crashed into De Vil's lawn, but it's up there.

Anna shuffled her feet, eyes following every movement Eugene and Jasmine made. Merida stood at her side, teetering on her feet and eyes half closed. It was early morning and the group had decided they would head for the shopping district around the mall. Eugene had rounded them up in his Jeep and they had sped off. Of course, to Anna's dismay, her childhood friend had refused to tell her what "gems" he had found in the city.

And considering he thought Jasper and Horace's was a gem, I'd hate to see what he thinks are good places to get anniversary gifts.

At least up until they had arrived at their current destination.

Although her initial worry about Eugene's choices had been eased really quickly upon arriving at Anita's, that still hadn't been the only trouble so far. Anna wasn't a morning person in the slightest. Really, when the group had decided they were all ready to find her the perfect idea for a gift, what they had meant was drag her out of bed, hair barely combed, promise Rapunzel they would all be back before classes, and push her into the Jeep.

And I'm not the only one either.

Merida twitched beside her, eyes drifting fully shut. The redhead didn't actually live on campus, but commuted from her family's large home that was closer to the more rural parts of the city.

How they managed to convince her to come is beyond me. Merida hates anything that even looks "frou-frouy."

She had been dozing in the back seat, hair as undone as Anna's. By contrast, Eugene and Jasmine had been prepped and readied for their "morning adventure."

Which meant astonishingly early for Anna and Merida because morning really meant before seven o' clock.

I guess he got the whole "rises with the sun" from Rapunzel.

That didn't explain Jasmine's presence though.

I wonder if Aladdin did tell her what happened after all. If so, I'm going to have a talk with that street rat. What's he up to?

Merida snorted beside her, jarring her from her thoughts. She swayed on her feet for another second before leaning on Anna's shoulder. Anna glanced at her quickly and smiled slightly. She wrapped an arm around the other redhead and squeezed her gently, rubbing a spot on her arm in soothing circles.

"Five more minutes Mum," Merida mumbled, snoring. She pushed against Anna even more, lulled by the soft patterns being drawn over her shirt. "I swear I'll be up before the rooster crows and the bus comes."

Anna bit her lip and giggled. The four of them had entered the small clothesline shop stationed just beside the mall. At first she had of course doubted they'd find anything decent in such a cramped store, but when they had ducked inside, Anna had relented almost immediately.

Anita's really was a gem among the city shops. The tiny store was well-lit and nicely furnished. The placement of the building meant that light spewed in directly from the sunrise and bathed everything in a natural glow. Even with the current forecast of gray weather, the place still felt inviting and warm. The atmosphere had a homely and slightly elegant interior—created by wooden floors and curving, but simple patterns etched into the shelves—that reminded Anna a bit of the café Elsa had taken her to the day she had fallen ill. The owner of the store was a young woman in her mid-thirties with a polite and calm demeanor that Anna likened to Elsa's. She had recognized Eugene, something that made Anna wonder how many times he had visited the store and for how long. It would have explained all the "dashing" outfits he had despite any money issues. And it would have definitely explained how he always managed to get Rapunzel a unique dress for her birthday every year.

After a cheerful greeting from the owner, and reassurance that they could ask her for assistance at any time, she had left them to their own devices.

And what devices they had!

A quick look around the store confirmed to even Anna's untrained eye that every single apparel was different than the previous one. Whether in small changes such as embroidery, color, and length or in large differences such as style, material, and circumstance.

Unfortunately for Anna, said circumstance was the one month anniversary between her and Elsa. Which meant that Eugene and Jasmine had deigned that gifts on the more "pricey" end be considered first.

It's like I unleashed a pair of puppies when I gave them the okay.

"Anna, how about this?"

Anna blinked and turned her head to stare at Jasmine. The slim beauty was holding up a light blue dress, sleeveless with an asymmetric cut, and a skirt that flared out at the bottom. It was long and seemed to be made out of silk. She wouldn't be surprised if it came along with a set of pearls for the person's neck.

Anna blanched, eyes widening to the size of dinner plates. Her hands shot down to her sides, gripping her pockets and feeling the loose change there, as if to make sure her meager wallet hadn't disappeared yet. The redhead's shoulders shot up to her ears, making Merida grumble in the process, head still leaning on her.

"I, uh, think that's a little much Jasmine?" She shoved her hands into her pockets, gripping a few coins—and her phone because she desired to be closer to Elsa in whatever way was possible in this moment—between her fingers. "I mean, it looks like it would suit a dinner date or a fancy party more than a one-month anniversary."

Even if I do think this anniversary should be really, really special.

Jasmine merely blinked and smiled, hanging back the sleek dress on the rack delicately. "Whatever you say Anna." She pushed aside a few more skirts and dresses, brow furrowed thoughtfully. "It's a shame Rapunzel couldn't come. She's always really good at imagining what things will look like. We could have really used her help when it came to clothes."

Anna laughed, relaxing her tense shoulders and patting Merida's head when the Scottish woman grunted in annoyance. "Yeah, but she did say she had something to do today."

Jasmine pursed her lips, extracting an elegant, white button-up blouse and holding it up for Anna.

The freckled girl shook her head, mumbling sheepishly, "Think she's got plenty of those shirts. I don't want to get her something she'll wear to a business deal. She probably has lots of those outfits already. Something more casual?"

And won't look as if it'll bankrupt me.

Her stomach twisted at the idea that she wouldn't be able to afford Elsa something nice.

Jasmine shrugged and placed the shirt back. She slid behind another rack of clothes while she said, "Still, it's weird. I don't remember Punzie saying she had anything special to do today." A pair of brown eyes peeked above the clothesline and Anna smiled when she saw the skin around them crinkle teasingly, "I guess it's just really odd to see her and Mr. Flynn Rider apart."

"I heard that!" Eugene called from where he was in another corner of the store. "Princess did have something important to do today! We'll see her later!"

Anna exchanged glances with the inquisitive brown eyes behind the clothes racket. One fine, black eyebrow quirked up. They burst into giggles after a moment and Jasmine ducked back down to search for something else.

The redhead shifted her feet, trying to carefully maintain Merida's sleeping frame against her body. "Well," her eyes followed the movement of silken, black hair as the other girl moved back and forth, "it's also kind of odd to see you apart from Al. I mean, I'm glad you came Jasmine, but why?"

Jasmine slid out from behind the clothes rack, hanging a pair of skin tight, dark blue jeans on her arm. "Oh, Al and I had a little chat in the morning. Something about a certain redhead coming up to their dorm at like, two in the morning, and practically crying like a little lamb about needing help."

Anna puffed out her cheeks, face flushing in annoyance. "Okay, I'm definitely punching him in the arm next."

The brunette laughed, striding over to them. "There are others things he told me, like how you really need to—"

"No, I didn't give them any sweets Mum!"

The shout, so close to her ear and so loud, made Anna shriek and jump.

She stumbled back, arms flailing as Merida straightened, eyes wide open. Anna barely caught herself on a nearby shelf, cringing when a few bottles of perfume clattered in place. She sighed in relief when nothing fell and righted herself, smoothing her sweaty palms on her jeans.

"Welcome back to the world of the waking," Jasmine said with a smile, unfazed by Merida's sudden yell.

Merida groaned and rubbed her eyes. She pushed back several curly strands and looked around, blinking sleepily. Anna grinned at her when the other redhead landed her eyes on her.

"Oh, we're still here?" she asked, grimacing. Anna laughed and shrugged helplessly. "Ugh, that means we haven't gotten anything for your princess."

Princess?

Anna blushed and tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Jasmine's smile turn into a catty grin.

"Well, it's just- she has so many clothes already, I think?" Anna fumbled, unsure of what to do with her hands. "I don't know if clothes are what I want to get her for our anniversary."

Ugh, where's Eugene when you need him? Maybe I should just tell him I don't think this is the best idea. I mean seriously, clothes? Everyone gets clothes. That's what you get when you can't think of something else!

She paused and the image of Elsa in her sundress for their first movie night together flashed in her mind. Anna bit her lip, a half-grin forming on her face.

Okay, maybe clothes aren't a bad idea. Elsa would look great in anything.

"Hello! Earth to Anna!"

A hand waved in front of her face and she blinked.

Merida and Jasmine were suddenly in front of her, two identical, worried frowns on their faces. Jasmine was still holding the jeans from before and Merida had her fingers hovering just before Anna's face.

"Oi, and you say I looked like the dead this morning." Merida drew back and snickered when Anna pouted. "Anna, you haven't been yourself all day. Or all month actually. Actually, you haven't been yourself for a while."

Anna blinked again. "What do you mean?"

"Eh," Merida shrugged. "Your head's been in the clouds. Well, more in the clouds than usual."

"Hey," Anna pouted and crossed her arms, shoulders dropping. "I don't get that distracted. I can focus."

Merida and Jasmine exchanged glances. She growled and glared at them. They laughed nervously, before Merida reached over and patted her shoulder.

"Hmm, I don't know how to put this, but, well…" The other redhead trailed off, brow knitting together in thought. Anna's stomach twisted when she saw a familiar look in her eye. "Well, after Hans—" Anna tensed, nails digging into her skin and her friends winced, sympathy obvious on their faces, "—you, well, we know it hurt."

"Do you have to overreact to everything?"

She wished it was raining today. Then, the weather would have reflected the turmoil in her stomach, hair rising on the back of her neck and tooth digging into the flesh of her lower lip. At the very least, she could have laughed and played it off as the rain and cold getting to her. But today, the sun was actually out and although the city was in a state of perpetual gray, things were still bright.

She preferred sunshine, but right now the light spilling through the display windows and the concern in her friends' eyes made the old wound feel raw.

"But—" Merida's voice broke through the fog and Anna felt a hand clasp her shoulder, squeezing firmly. She blinked and a large grin spread across the other redhead's face. "This different is better."

"Huh?" Anna's fingers relaxed slightly on her arms, nails loosening from skin. Her shoulders dropped again, but more out of surprise than a lack of tension.

Jasmine nodded and reached over, brushing back her white streak of hair with a grin as large as Merida's on her own face. "What she means Anna, is that you seem happier."

"But not your usual pastry-filled, sugar-ridden happiness like me brothers." Merida frowned and paused, clicking her tongue in thought. "Actually, scratch that. You're more like that nowadays, but it's like your head's above the clouds."

Anna slowly dropped her arms, hands dangling by her sides. She frowned, wetting her lips because they felt dry and cracked all of a sudden. Her heart, while still steady, pumped blood through her veins just a bit faster. The tips of her ears flushed.

"What do you mean?" she asked, though a sinking feeling in her stomach told her she already knew what Merida meant.

Merida made a wiggling motion with her hand, as if she were trying to imitate a bird. "Like I said, it's like your head's above the clouds. You've got the same look my dad gets when he's playing around with Mum."

"Oh," Anna said, nodding and staring down at her shoes. Then she did a double take, jerking her head back up to frown at Merida. "Wait, what?"

"It's called romance," Jasmine said, reaching over and flicking Merida on the forehead and then doing the same to Anna. "You might be unfamiliar with it Merida, but it's definitely romance."

Both of them yelped and Merida reached up to rub the sore spot. The Scottish redhead scrunched up her face while Anna ran a hand through her hair nervously, knees shaking underneath the fabric of her jeans.

Romance. Right, well I've always wanted something like that. But with Hans, I thought—no. It's different. It's definitely different with Elsa. That's why I've been so worried about getting her the perfect gift. Eugene did say I was acting serious last night and maybe that's a good thing. Ugh, I don't know. I thought it was serious with Hans, but look how that ended. I—

Two hands cupped her face and she blinked into Jasmine's soft brown eyes.

"Anna, it's okay," she said and the patient tone to her words washed over Anna like a soothing wave. "You'll figure everything out in no time."

She inhaled quietly, spine tingling from the sudden affection and care lavished upon her. Anna nodded, closing her eyes to prevent tears of fatigue, worry, and something else that wasn't exactly unpleasant from spilling. She exhaled slowly and then re-opened her eyes, a bright grin splitting her freckled cheeks.

"You're right. I can do this." She reached up and grasped the warm hands on the side of her face. Her heart throbbed when she imagined it was the large, weathered hands of her mother back home.

"That's right you got this!"

A pair of muscled arms wrapped around her torso from behind and hoisted her up in the air. Anna let out a choked noise and twisted, turning her head to see Eugene's neatly combed dark brown hair.

"Where have you been?" she asked, pouting. Her feet dangled above the ground so she took advantage of them and kicked Eugene in the leg with the back of her sneaker. He yelped in pain.

"Ow! Easy, Red," Eugene hissed and put her down, hopping on his other leg. "I've just been having a long, detailed, and important chat with Mrs. Radcliffe here." He gestured with his thumb over the shoulder.

The elegant woman behind him was holding a folded piece of clothing in her arms, an amused grin on her face, pearl-white teeth flashing. Anna lifted her hand and waved awkwardly, ears turning red when the shop owner laughed delicately at her obvious nervousness.

"Conveniently, without helping us," Merida quipped, placing her hands on her hips and smirking.

"As if you sleeping the day away was very helpful," Jasmine replied. The smirk on Merida's face vanished and she glared at the other woman who just giggled in response. "Poor Anna has practically been pulling out her hair over here and I," she shot them both a slightly disapproving look, "have been the only one actually asking her what she thinks would be a good present."

Merida and Eugene coughed and avoided her stare. Anna stared down at her shoes, scuffing the floor against them.

Jasmine rolled her eyes. "Anyway, did you find something Eugene?" she asked.

He grinned and bowed. "My fair lovely maidens, allow Lady Radcliffe here to show you a—" Eugene winked and Anna groaned, cheeks flushing in embarrassment at his dramatics, "—dress from her latest line up, one of the hottest fashions in the city."

"He exaggerates," Anita said, smiling gently at the young man who just shrugged and grinned back.

She unwound the sheer dress and held it up for Anna to see. Anna tilted her head to the side. It reminded her of the dress Jasmine had pointed out earlier, but it ended even past the ankles. It was bright blue as well, but the bodice flared in the sunlight with the faintest hint of silver. Shoulderless, the sleeves were almost see-through and a paler blue with the neckline dipping just a bit low.

Anna felt her wallet physically shrink.

It was gorgeous. And Elsa and blue seemed to go hand in hand. The dress looked like a perfect fit, but...

"I-I'm not sure if that's what I want to get her," Anna mumbled, shifting her weight and cupping her hands together. "I don't think it's the best idea for a first time anniversary."

Eugene's eager grin dropped along with his shoulders. "What?! But Red! Fit for a princess!"

Anita, however, folded it back up, a knowing smile on her lips. "That's perfectly fine dear. I know what you're going through."

The look she gave Anna made the redhead relax. She grabbed a braid and played with the end.

"How about this?" Jasmine asked, pushing the jeans she had been holding for a while into Anna's arms.

"Yeah, give her something casual," Merida quipped, looking over Anna's shoulder at the dark fabric. "Even uppity people like me Mum like to dress comfortably once in a while."

Anna shifted the jeans in her arms, eyes scanning over the legs. It was a slim cut and she wondered if Elsa would like something this casual. She did wear Meg's jeans on our first date and didn't seem to mind. They looked really good on her too. She fingered the waistband, thumb running over the edge of the pants. It stretched, but managed to maintain its form. Anna's mind flashed with the image of Elsa's pale skin highlighted by the dark material. Heat bloomed in her cheeks. Elsa's legs would look really good in this.

The redhead sighed and handed the jeans back to Jasmine, a sheepish, but determined grin on her face.

"It looks great, but I don't think clothes are the answer."

The other three groaned, although Merida grumbled, "Dragged all this way for nothing."

Anita laughed and Anna handed her the jeans, smiling apologetically. "We're sorry to trouble you Ma'am." She twiddled her thumbs. ""But maybe I can get something from here another time?"

Hopefully there is a next time of course.

Anita nodded, shifting the clothes in her arms. She patted Anna's forearm gently, eyes twinkling behind her glasses. "It's no trouble dear. If you ever wish to make a personal commission, then Eugene knows my hours or you can find my number on my website."

Jasmine quirked an eyebrow at the young man. "How often have you been here?'

Eugene blushed and rubbed the back of his head, turning towards the entrance. "A couple times. I just found the store about a couple years ago, made a few visits. Nothing big."

He rushed to the entrance, though Anna could see the back of his neck was red. She turned to Anita, who grinned.

"Fit for a princess, he used to tell me," she said, gesturing to the retreating brunette and then to several pearl pink dresses hanging off a rack.

Merida laughed, holding her sides while Jasmine covered her mouth.

Anna was too distracted, gnawing on her lower lip in thought.

Fit for a princess. Elsa's more like a Queen. What's good enough for her?

x x x

"You've that look in your eye again."

Elsa pulled back and blinked, looking over her shoulder at the taller blonde. Aurora was standing a few feet away, tapping one foot against the white tiled floor.

"What look?" Elsa asked, arching one fine eyebrow.

"That look," Aurora stated simply, pointing one finger at Elsa. "The one that says 'I've already made my decision, but I'm going to stand here and think it over uselessly for several hours.'"

Elsa frowned, turning back to the glass display window. "I don't look like that," she muttered, distracted by the assemble of expensive brand new watches. There were thick silver ones that reminded her of her father. She skipped over those. And they're far too business-like anyway. They don't suit Anna at all.

Anna was fun, kind, and understanding. Something that cold and uncomfortable wasn't for her.

"Yes you do," Aurora said, sidling up to her side as Elsa moved down the line, eyeing the slimmer watches on the side. "Elsa, we've been at this for an hour by now and I think you've declined forty-five accessories within that time frame."

"None of them fit," she mumbled, blue eyes landing on a watch that was composed of leather and platinum. She fingered the glass above it, tilting her head and pondering the image of Anna wearing it on her wrist. The side of her lips quirked up when she thought of Anna pulling back the sleeve of her letterman jacket to check the time.

Would she think of me then?

She giggled at the idea.

"Okay, so if you haven't made your decision, perhaps we should look at something else?" Aurora whined, tugging on the back of her blouse. "I've stared at enough watches to be able to tell time with my eyes closed by now! When you called me to ask if I was free, I didn't think I'd be standing on my feet for so long instead of, oh I don't know, sleeping."

Elsa winced and clutched the strap of her bag. She glanced sideways, mumbling, "I'm sorry Aurora. I know you really need your sleep, but I just wanted a second opinion. You've been with Philip for so long I thought you would be the best choice for this."

"Why not ask Tiana? She could have helped you narrow down your search in half the amount of time we were here. And she's been with Naveen for quite some time." Aurora leaned against the glass display, tired blue eyes flickering over the watches. "Or Belle? She's more of a morning person than I am."

"They're both working," Elsa said, shoulders drooping. She shot the other blonde a look, moving down the row to hover over a few gold band watches. "Besides, are you saying your experience isn't good enough to give me a second opinion?"

Aurora scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Why do you need my experience?"

Elsa bit her lip and fiddled with the strap of her bag. "Meg mentioned something about needing experience."

The taller woman hummed, pausing at the corner of the display and tilting her head. "I think you're smart enough to figure out what to get your girlfriend. You don't really need me, but I really need my sleep."

"Sorry," Elsa said, smiling slightly. Aurora waved away her apology, tapping her chin. "So do you really think I should get her something other than a watch?"

"If you're dead set on getting her a watch, get it. But I do think they make for boring gifts. I only said that because I'm sick and tired of listening to clocks all around me." She gestured around the store, pointing to a few grandfather clocks. "It reminds me of the time my parents wanted an antique spinning wheel—don't look at me like that, they're eccentric that way—and we went to this old shop that had so many of them, I remember a few being stacked on top of each other. One in particular felt like it was screaming my name." She grimaced. "Those things gave me the chills."

Elsa laughed, shifting her bag over her shoulder. She gently patted her friend's arm as she eyed one last slim watch. The wrist strap was leather as well, but the circle was more oval in shape and the digits were tinted the faintest opal blue. Her heart clenched painfully.

It reminds me of Mother's pendant.

The light blue brooch had been lost in the car crash the day her parents died.

Elsa gripped her bag tightly, biting her lower lip. A familiar wetness burned behind her eyelids, but she shoved it back, shaking her head and moving away from the glass case.

Now isn't the time to think about what was. I have to concentrate on what will be.

And that future included getting Anna the perfect gift.

Pendant.

She frowned, brow creasing in thought.

Maybe...

"Please tell me you aren't reconsidering the watches," Aurora grumbled, already at the entrance. "If you decide on one of those things, let me tell you, your girlfriend will know my hatred and distaste for them every time she wears it."

Elsa rolled her eyes, turning to the clerk. "You're so dramatic." She dipped her head in an apologetic bow to the woman behind the counter. "We're sorry to have taken up so much of your time."

The clerk flashed her a smile. "It's no trouble Miss Arendelle. But," she gestured to several digital watches hanging on display, "may I interest you in our latest—"

Aurora grabbed her arm, dragging her to the entrance and flashing the woman a strained smile. "Thank you dear, but we—" she flashed Elsa a look, eyes narrowed into slits, "will be going now."

Elsa squeaked as she was pulled away from the quiet shop and thrust back into the hustle and bustle of the city mall, trying to keep up with Aurora's quick strides.

"Aurora! Slow down!" She huffed and tugged on her bag strap, brow knitted together. The other blonde merely gave her a glance and slowed her steps a bit. "Honestly, I think your aunt has rubbed off on you more than you think."

Aurora smirked, looking pleased for a moment. "Don't let Aunt Maleficent hear you say that. My father would never hear the end of it."

Elsa chuckled and watched the shops they passed by. The mall was fairly large so she wasn't too worried about running out of options. At least, that's what she kept telling herself. Her stomach twisted and she bit her lower lip. I honestly can't believe our anniversary is tomorrow. It feels so unreal. We've only been together for one month, but a whole month. I wonder how long Mother and Father dated before they got married.

...I shouldn't be thinking like that.

Aurora's arm over her chest made her skid to a stop. The blonde let out a small 'oof' and she frowned curiously at the taller woman, opening her mouth to ask her why she had stopped when Aurora pointed at one of the departments.

"Let's try there. I know this place, they have jewelry, even more watches if you're really dead set on a watch, clothes, other accessories, and-" she ran a hand through her hair, lifting the dark blonde strands in an elegant motion, "-fantastic hair products."

Elsa eyed it warily, raising one eyebrow at the name.

Wonderland.

"If that doesn't ring any alarm bells I don't know what would," Elsa mumbled to herself.

Aurora huffed, waving away her concern. "Don't knock it until you try it dear. Be a little adventurous." And before the slim blonde could protest, she grabbed Elsa's hand and dragged her into the store. "Down the rabbit hole we go!"

Elsa winced, shoulders rising up to her ears as she passed by groups of people. I have a bad feeling about this.

Fifteen minutes later though, she was scouring the shelves of several brand name clothes, high priced jewelry, and perfume wafting in her nose from the accessory selection.

Alright, maybe this won't be so bad after all. She ignored the hair rising on her neck and turned to Aurora. The taller woman was eyeing herself in a mirror, dragging the skin underneath one eye down.

"Do you want to split up?" Elsa asked, smiling slightly and brow furrowing when she saw exhaustion flashing over her friend's face. Perhaps I should have just let her sleep in. Elsa, you fool. You should be able to do things by yourself by now. You always have.

"No, I'm fine dear," Aurora said, moving away from the mirror.

Elsa smiled and hoped the other woman didn't notice how strained it was. "If you say so." Before Aurora could look more closely at her, she turned on her heel and walked down the rows, muttering, "I think I saw something over here that I liked."

Of course that was a lie. She hadn't even been to that part of the store. She just didn't want a comment about her growing nervousness.

"Oh, really?" Aurora stopped eyeing the shadows under her eyes and strode after her, whispering, "I really hope it's not another watch."

"I heard that," Elsa said, crossing her arms tight over her torso. "It's not. I think I saw something that Anna would really love."

"Less stressing, more showing," Aurora said, trying to keep up with Elsa's increasingly fast pace. "Elsa, honestly, perhaps you should—"

But she wasn't listening. It felt like something was ticking in her brain, counting down the seconds until she ran out of time to find a gift for Anna.

She could swear she could hear the tick-tock of her own wrist watch.

Maybe not a watch then definitely. Something else? I have to find something else.

She rounded the corner, eyes darting frantically from side to side, and a faint glimmer caught her attention.

Elsa halted, heel frozen in mid-step. Everything in her tensed and she felt her stomach pull together tightly. She had walked into the jewelry selection of the department and the vast array of necklaces, bracelets, and other charms immediately drew her eyesight.

But more than that, laying on a velvet cushion in one of the glass displays was a necklace. Her heart jumped into her throat and stopped there.

Breathe Elsa, breathe.

A slight shiver ran over her shoulders and down her arms. She walked closer, heels echoing faintly against the tiled floors, and leaned over the glass, blue eyes honing in on the crafted artifact.

Elsa stared, mesmerized by the pendant before her. The entirety of it was crafted out of a slightly dark silver, the chain delicate and yet, upon closer inspection, she was sure it was sturdy. It was simple and not the most expensive thing she had ever seen in her life, but she found herself unable to tear her eyes away from it. The necklace ended in a heart-shaped locket and on the small piece were intricate patterns that emphasized and reiterated its shape.

A heart of hearts.

Her cheeks filled with color and her lips formed a tiny 'o', wonder filling her eyes. A slow, beaming smile curled on the edges and she reached forward with one hand, fingertips running over the glass of the display case. Her heart thudded faster and she felt giddiness bubble in her chest.

I found it.

Elsa bit her lip to contain her giggles. She felt breathless, light on her feet and mind racing. In her head, she could already see her fingers reaching around Anna's slender neck, gently locking the pendant in place and lingering on the heart-shaped locket when finished. She could practically see Anna's delight and awe, a pretty pink blush spreading over her freckled cheeks. Her thoughts were in a flurry.

Would Anna say it was beautiful? Lovely? Perfect? Would she grab Elsa and kiss her right there from gratitude and sheer joy?

The scenario left her winded and she whirled around, looking for Aurora, desperate and eager to tell her friend about her discovery.

"Aurora! Aurora come here, I've found it!" Elsa called, head swinging back and forth. She looked down the aisles, blinking in confusion when she didn't immediately see the other blonde and when she didn't get a rapid reply. She bit her lip and sighed. "Oh, I really hope she didn't get lost again."

She would never say it to her face, but the other woman had a habit of straying when lost in her own thoughts.

Although a part of her mind nagged at her that it was she who had lost track of Aurora.

Shifting her bag up higher, she glanced back at the pendant one last time, lower lip jutting out in a pout at the thought of leaving it for too long, and set off on finding her friend.

The mall wasn't particularly large so Elsa decided against immediately texting Aurora. She couldn't have gone too far. Wandering issues aside, she had been a fairly obedient child and so Elsa figured that Aurora had likely stopped at a nearby display.

Perfume or something to do with hair likely.

She rounded a corner, hands clutching her bag and the front of her blouse.

Only for her head to collide with someone's chest.

The blonde stumbled back, one heel catching on the corner of a structure. It cracked against it and she felt herself falling. Instinctively her eyes shut tight, ready for the collision on the back of her head.

A hand reached out and grabbed her wrist, causing an abrupt stop to her fall.

Elsa's eyes snapped open and she stared at a pair of hazel eyes.

Hans blinked down at her, surprise flashing across his face. The two stayed like that for a moment, position awkward and strained, with Elsa nearly half on the floor and Hans leaning over her, the hand in her grasp the only thing keeping her up.

Then he beamed, pearly white teeth flashing in the shop's fluorescent light and pulled back, easily tugging her back on her feet.

"Elsa! I didn't expect to see you here."

Elsa fumbled, a blush spreading over her cheeks as she righted herself. She let go of his hand quickly, feeling a tingle run over her arm when she noticed he had gloves on again. She grabbed the end of her braid, hands enclosing around it tightly.

"Ah, Hans it's a pleasure to see you again." In truth, she hadn't really made an effort to see the young man again after their first meeting, but not because she disliked him. Not at all. He seemed nice. She just preferred to keep her distance away from others, even if they were neighbors in her apartment.

The smile he gave her though, as she took a step back, made her relax a bit.

It's so much like Anna's.

The memory of the redhead's cheery grin sent a warm wave over her and her fingers loosened around her hair.

"Well, I really hope you're not hurt this time," Hans said, breaking her from her train of thought. She blinked, eyes widening, and he laughed. "The first time we met, we bumped into each other then too and it looked as if you hurt your ankle. I hope that's not the case here. It would look terrible on my track record if I kept hurting every woman I met."

His teeth flashed again and she chuckled, lowering her hands to her front and folding them.

"No, I'm fine Hans." For emphasis, she tapped her shoe against the floor, inspecting it. The heel hadn't broken and she smiled in relief. "As you can see, no harm done. I simply wasn't looking where I was going."

She neglected to tell him that the first time they had met her ankle had sprained. It had only felt better after Anna had tended to it, massaging the sore area.

"Thinking of something?"

Again, she was jarred from her thoughts about Anna. Elsa blinked at Hans and he shrugged, grin still in place.

"You were thinking about something the first day we met. Thought it was the same here."

"Ah," Elsa said, jumping a bit and looking around. "Er, yes, actually. I was looking for a friend of mine. She was supposed to help me decide on a gift, but it seems I've lost sight of her."

Hans laughed and she mentally cringed. "I can help you look for her if you want."

"No, it's alright. I don't want to trouble you." She half-turned, intent on leaving when he touched the crook of her elbow.

Elsa resisted the urge to flinch away.

"It's no trouble at all. Maybe you can give me some advice along the way."

Her skin crawled where he grabbed her so, gently, she pulled her arm away from his hand. He didn't seem to mind since his grin only grew wider.

"A-alright," Elsa said, clutching the front of her blouse and bag. She didn't want to appear rude. Hans seemed like an ordinary, eagar, and kind young gentleman. Again, she was reminded of Anna.

There's no harm, right?

"Great," Hans said. He ran a hand through his hair and this time she couldn't fight the shiver that ran down her spine when she saw his white gloves.

She had never liked gloves.

She pushed away the childhood memories before they could surface and gestured to Hans, smiling politely, "Lead the way."

He grinned at her and for a second she thought he was going to offer her his elbow, but instead he just tucked his arms behind his back and began to walk down the rows.

"You're buying something for someone aren't you?" he asked, eyes flicking over a few brooches they passed.

Elsa blinked, startled. "I- er, yes. How did you know?"

Hans winked at her, chin rising up a bit higher. "I've been told I have a way with people." He chuckled when she shot him a look of disbelief. "Really, I just figured it out from the way you were looking at that necklace. I've seen that sort of lip-biting look before and it's a pensive look."

Elsa frowned, subconsciously crossing her arms a bit. "How do you know I wasn't just thinking of getting it for myself?"

He beamed at her and the fluorescent store lights made his teeth shine brightly again. "You seem more like the giver, rather than the taker."

Elsa laughed and she felt her nerves relax a bit. She glanced down shyly at her feet, mumbling, "That's a rather large statement about me. Are you that confident about your people skills?"

He puffed out his chest with a satisfied face. "I used to be well-acquainted with a very giving person."

He winked at her again and she giggled, covering her mouth. "And was this giving person you?"

Hans stopped around a corner and didn't answer right away. He looked around conspiratorially for a moment before gesturing for her to lean in close. Which she did, after a moment's hesitation and he whispered behind his hand, "No, I've always been the taker in my family." He pressed a finger to his lips and hissed, "Don't tell anyone though."

She laughed more easily when he pulled back, a silly grin on his lightly freckled face. Quite a bit like Anna.

Hans turned and swiped a belt off a rack, holding it up to her. "Anyway, do you think this is a good birthday present?"

Elsa blinked several times, startled by the change. "I guess so? It looks like a nice belt."

He hummed and tucked it under his arm.

"Who are you giving it to?" she asked and then mentally berated herself for her unfounded curiosity.

"One of my brothers. The whole Westerguard family is having a family reunion for one of my older brothers and that's why I was out shopping today."

Elsa frowned, a thought nagging at her. However, before it could fully form, a shout broke through the air.

"Elsa, there you are!"

Both of them turned to see Aurora hurrying to them, looking visibly relieved. Inwardly, Elsa mirrored the expression. She smiled slightly when her friend stopped in front of them.

"I've been looking for you! You completely disappeared on me. Anyway, I saw this—" The taller woman did a double take when she noticed Hans. "Oh, hello. Do you two know each other?"

Hans bowed to Aurora and her friend quirked an eyebrow at that.

"Hans Westerguard, Miss." He offered his hand and she shook it once before letting go.

"Aurora," she stated simply and Elsa blinked at the surprisingly stiff tone.

"I recently moved into the same apartment as Elsa." He flashed her a smile and she returned it quietly. "She was just helping me pick out a present while we looked for you. Though, we really didn't have to do much looking since you found us first."

"Indeed," Aurora said, sidling to Elsa's side.

Elsa smiled at her and half-turned, dipping her head to Hans. "I'd love to stay and chat Hans, but we must be going."

He nodded, hazel eyes bright. "Right, I understand. It was a pleasure speaking with you again Elsa, and meeting you too Aurora."

Elsa smiled, but before she could add anything else, Aurora grabbed her elbow and dragged her back the way they had come. "Yes, lovely. Excuse us, Hans."

He waved to them and Elsa only had a chance to flash him back an apologetic smile before they disappeared behind a corner.

"I don't like him," Aurora stated when they were out of earshot.

Elsa blinked, eyebrows shooting to her hairline. "Why?"

"Only Philip can pull off a bow like that. His just seemed off somehow."

Elsa snorted, rolling her eyes. "You're being dramatic Aurora. He seems nice."

The other blonde frowned, staring straight ahead. "Maybe. Anyway, I found this cute little globe, I was wondering if you wanted to take a look at it."

Elsa grabbed her friend's arm and Aurora blinked at her, eyes widening in surprise. Elsa couldn't begrudge her. She rarely initiated contact, but she couldn't help the warm glow spreading over her chest and the genuine, excited grin curling on her lips.

"Actually, I found the perfect thing."

Ten minutes later and the two walked out of the store, the velvet box holding Anna's gift tucked into a bag and held in her arms safely. Elsa couldn't stop smiling, cheeks tinted pink.

"I'm so glad it's not a watch," Aurora grumbled and Elsa laughed softly.

I hope she loves it.

As they made their way to the mall's exit however, Elsa saw something out of the corner of her eye.

Hans was speaking to another man who sported the same hair color as him. She blinked and wondered if that was his brother.

Or one of his brothers. He said he had more than one. I wonder how big the Westerguard family is?

Something nagged at her mind, but she couldn't pin down the thought. Only Hans's last name kept flashing through her mind.

Westerguard.

Elsa pursed her lips, looking away from the scene and following Aurora a step behind.

Westerguard.

That had been the name of the professor who had given Anna a strange look in class the other day. Her frown deepened and she clutched her gift tighter, stomach tightening.

I wonder what that had been all about.

Anna's deliberate avoidance of the look had not been lost on her.

Maybe I should ask her sometime.

x x x

"Nope, null, declined, rejected, and zilch!" Jasmine crossed out the last name on their list.

Anna sank further into her seat, body practically falling off of it. The Jeep continued to roll on by, rumbling underneath her feet. They were just leaving the last shop—a large, well-stocked bookstore—and were driving farther away from the mall, closer to the edge of the shopping district.

All this time and still nothing.

She sighed, staring sullenly at her sneakers. "I'm sorry you guys, for dragging you all out here and not deciding on anything." Her feet were aching and she was sure the rest of her friends were tired as well. Anna heaved another sigh and glanced out the window, watching the buildings fly by. "Maybe we should just head back. You guys have already missed some classes because of me."

Merida leaned against the window sill, blowing at her fringe. "Is not any use worrying about that anymore. I'm not exactly missing history right now."

Eugene glanced at her from the driver's seat, a small smile on his face. "Yeah, don't worry about it Anna. We'll find something for sure." He turned down a street and snapped his fingers. "We're right on the trail, I know we are."

Jasmine leaned over in the passenger seat, a wide grin curling on her lips. "We can look all day. Missing classes once doesn't mean automatically failing. Besides, it's not even noon."

Anna nodded, swallowing down a lump in her throat. Despite her friends' reassurances though, she couldn't push away the sinking feeling in her stomach. She had left Anita's actually feeling hopeful, but after looking through a few more shops—considering jewelry, footwear, designer bags, even furniture at one point—she had become increasingly more and more doubtful.

What kind of present is good enough for a person who grew up with so much?

"Chin up Anna!" Merida said, gripping her shoulder suddenly and squeezing it firmly. "We'll find something for your lass!"

Anna's lips twitched and she managed the faintest hint of a smile. "Thanks," she mumbled, sitting up straighter in her seat.

She looked out the window again, biting her lip when she noticed that the shops around were beginning to give away to more residential areas.

There has to be something I can get for Elsa. But what? What kind of things are there that I know she likes?

Her teeth sank into her lower lip, thoughts beginning to race a mile a minute. Jasmine and Eugene were exchanging other possible locations in the front of the car while Merida took out her phone to text her mother, muttering something about, "—strict scheduling. Her hair is getting grayer every day."

The only thing she was certain that Elsa liked was her.

And Elsa already has me.

She leaned her head against the glass pane when the name of a shop flashed by.

Ellie's.

A light bulb clicked in Anna's head.

She jumped in her seat, crying out, "Stop the car!" She shot forward in her seat, causing Merida to fumble with her phone, eyes widening in surprise. Anna pointed at a tiny parking lot. "Let's go there!"

Eugene glanced over his shoulder, an eyebrow quirked high. "Woah, Red, slow down. I can't stop in the middle of traffic." His eyes darted to the side, watching the mirrors before he turned and pulled the Jeep into the tiny parking lot.

Anna was out of her seat and out the car door before Eugene had even turned off the ignition.

"Wait for us Anna!" Jasmine exclaimed, unbuckling her seatbelt.

But the redhead was already dashing inside, the tiny bell chiming as she slipped into the tiny, cramped shop. It was dimly lit and the weak sunlight streaming in through the windows was filled with dust particles. Every spot was littered with some object, a figurine or a knick knack, and even a music box in one case. There had to be something here that she could find for Elsa.

Something inside her was screaming that she was on the right track.

She looked around, heart thudding in her chest.

This place kind of reminds me of home.

Her parents' house, while larger than the tiny shop, had been just as cramped and cluttered, holding tiny little childhood secrets in every nook and cranny.

"Are you going to stand there or are you going to buy something?"

Anna jumped, head whipping around to see an elderly man behind the store counter, wiping dust from a few books.

"Oh! Uh, right." Anna stepped farther into the shop, flashing a grin at the old man and pushing down her nerves.

He blinked and then squinted at her. "Hm, what are you looking for young lady?"

Anna roamed her eyes over the shelves, heart clenching when she spotted old dolls and figurines. "A gift," she mumbled, voice faint, "for someone. It's our anniversary tomorrow."

He cocked an eyebrow, hand stilling on one of the books. "Looking for something the day before? Maybe what you need is a calendar."

Anna flushed and hung her head, shame heating her skin. She shuffled her feet, biting her lip and cupping her hands together.

He sounds like Matron from the orphanage.

The bell chimed again and her friends stumbled in. She looked up, relieved for a distraction from her thoughts and absentmindedness. Merida paused, looking around while Eugene turned to the store owner, exclaiming a cheery, false sauve, "Good afternoon sir!" while Jasmine strode up to Anna.

"Next time don't jump out the car before we've fully stopped Anna!" she scolded, poking her cheek with her pointer finger.

Anna laughed and managed a half grin, sheepish. "Sorry," she said, holding up her hands in a placating manner. "I just had a good vibe about this place when I saw it."

Merida made a noncommittal sound before turning to the elderly man. "We're sorry to disturb your work sir."

"You'll only disturb me if you're not interested in buying something."

"I reckon Anna's got something in mind, jumping out of a moving car and all that," she said, eyeing Anna out of the corner of her eye.

"Right, you said you were looking for an anniversary gift?"

Anna nodded. "I hope you don't mind letting us have a look around sir."

He grunted and went back to cleaning his books. "Mr. Fredricksen is fine. Don't have to keep calling me that. Go on, have a look around. See if there's anything you'd think is fine for an anniversary."

Woah, he really does remind me of the Matron back home.

Anna beamed and scampered off, excitement buzzing off her in waves.

"I should warn you though, we don't have really expensive things lying around!"

"Well it's just their first month together," Jasmine said. "I don't think it has to be very expensive."

"Aye, and there's lots of things you can find in an ol' shop," Merida quipped and Anna heard something being shifted. "Like, uh, tapestries! My Mum and me found this ol' thing one time and I—"

Their voices drifted off as she walked deeper into the store, her mind racing with possibilities.

I can't really afford anything expensive, but that doesn't mean it can't be meaningful. I know I can make it meaningful. For Elsa.

"—distracted by work and stuff. You know how it goes," Eugene was saying. She heard his boots thud against the floor.

And distracted by a certain blonde too.

Anna's lips twitched into a tiny smile. She eyed an angel figurine.

"Their anniversary is tomorrow though," Jasmine said and Anna heard the soft tune of a music box playing. "I'm happy for them. Elsa seems like such a shy person and Anna deserves to be happy. They both do."

Anna paused by a mirror, tilting her head at it. Her eyes landed on the streak in her hair and she fingered it, heart pounding in her ears, dulling everyone's words.

Elsa does deserve to be happy. And I want to be one reason why she is.

"And she's only just now getting her girlfriend a gift?"

"Not everyone has all the time in the world on their hands," Merida grumbled. Anna paused where she was, ears pricked. Slowly, she dropped her hand. "Anna's had a lot on her mind lately. So it slipped her mind? Who cares! I bet she'll find something so sweet for Elsa, it'll make everyone's teeth rot nearby because of how thoughtful and corny it is!"

Anna slapped her hand over her mouth, halting her giggles. Wow Merida thanks for defending and insulting me! She rolled her eyes, but couldn't help smiling.

She peeked over at her friends.

"They've been too busy making goo-gooey eyes at each other," Eugene snorted, picking up a book from a stack. "Can't really blame Anna. She's been so happy this month, honeymoon feel and all that."

Anna coughed, ears turning red. She ducked her head when Mr. Fredricksen glanced at her, eyebrow raised.

"Honeymoon feel you say..."

His eyes bore into the back of her head and she bit her lip to refrain from laughing nervously.

"Hm," he smacked his lips before shouting to her, "why don't you check all the way in the back? You might find something there."

Anna glanced over her shoulder and he jerked his head in the general direction. She grinned and relaxed when she noticed the kinder expression on his face.

She bounded deeper into the store, the dim corners almost familiar with their shadows and hidden objects, waiting to be found and explored.

This place really did remind her of her two homes, in different ways.

Anna squeezed in between a bookshelf and several boxes, head turning this way and that, eyes darting over every object.

Maybe a book. Or maybe I'll find a paperweight. Something that will always be close by while Elsa works. Ugh, no Anna that's boring.

She huffed and moved into the darkest corner of the store, brow furrowed in slight frustration.

I know there's something in here. I'm sure of—

Anna halted, breath catching in her throat. Teal eyes slowly widened and it felt like a switch had been flipped in her brain.

On top of an antique dresser, placed close to the corner and surrounded by several, tiny sculptures, a jewelry box, and a few dolls, was a lone picture frame. She noticed it right away, not only because it seemed separate from the other pieces, but also because it seemed like the most modern thing in the whole store.

The frame was black and simple. It was small, taller than it was wide, and the photo consisted of a close up of a skyscraper against a backdrop of the sunrise, other buildings hazy in the distance. The modern structure was highlighted by orange and pinkish rays, painting gray stone a faint gold.

It looked powerful, arching high over the other structures. The child in her saw the high spires of a castle tower, looking at it bathed in the sunlight. She was reminded of Elsa, back straight and hair so light it glowed like faint sun beams. It was perfect. Architecture melded with one of her favorite subjects. Standing high and grand, the skyscraper made her feel as if—

As if...

"—as if I was on top of the world."

Elsa's words were a distant, sweet memory.

"This is it," Anna breathed, eyes wide and glittering. Her fingers twitched, excitement coursing under her skin and through her veins, nerves buzzing with every fiber of her being. Her characteristic grin was curling on her lips and she reached out with shaking fingertips to trace along the picture frame. "I've found it," she whispered, a tingle running down her spine. "I've found it! I've found it! This is it! This is perfect!"

She couldn't keep still. Anna bounced on her toes, squealing. She was about to pick up the small picture when there was a ringing sound from her pocket. Anna jumped and grabbed her phone, fingers clumsily accepting the call.

She frowned slightly when she didn't recognize the number before bringing it up to her ear.

"Hello?" There was static on the end for a moment. At the corner of her eye, she saw her friends glance over curiously, but she waved away their concern, hunching over in the tiny corner. "May I ask who's calling?"

"Hey, Wonder Girl."

Anna blinked, back straightening and mouth dropping open. "Meg?" she squeaked. Her eyebrows shot up to her hairline. "Wait, what? How did you get my number?"

Meg chuckled on the other line and she could faintly hearing people shouting in the distance. "Swiped it when Blondie was doing her morning routine. That girl really shouldn't forget her phone in the bathroom."

"Oh," Anna mumbled. She brushed back her hair, stammering, "Is there s-something I can help you with?"

"What? No, 'how you been Meg?' 'It's nice to hear from you Meg?' 'I hope you're well Meg?'"

Anna flushed and spluttered, "Sorry! I'm sorry! I just, wow, didn't expect you to call me. I mean, not that a call from you is bad or anything! I, uh, I just didn't expect it!" She wheezed, heat spreading down her neck when Meg laughed. "Uh, I didn't think you would care to have my number, is all. S-so how are you?" She slapped her forehead, groaning. "I should have asked that first..."

"Relax, Wonder Girl." Meg's voice was calm, but Anna heard a distinct teasing edge to it. "I'm just messing with you Anna."

Anna giggled nervously, fiddling with the end of one braid. Her stomach did a small flip and she barely managed to say, "O-oh. Oh right, of course!" The redhead cleared her throat, forcing the heat in her face back. Way to overreact Anna. "How can I help you?"

Meg hummed and she heard the shouting in the distance grow quieter. Anna guessed the slender brunette had moved away from all the commotion in the background.

"It's nothing big, I just wanted to know if you figured out an anniversary gift for Elsa yet."

At once the blush was back on her face. Anna brushed back a lock of hair, stuttering, "What? Of course I found her a present already! Why wouldn't I?!"

Oh god, I hope she doesn't find out I just found a gift for Elsa. Yeah, that's a totally considerate and attentive girlfriend thing to do. And she's your girlfriend's roommate too! That's a good impression isn't it? Way to go Anna.

"Ahuh," Meg said and Anna cringed when she sounded distinctly unconvinced. There was a long pause and the redhead swore her heart would beat out of her chest. Then, "Soooo, have you checked out her present yet?"

Anna deflated, shoulders dropping and free hand hanging limp against her side. She sighed heavily and mumbled, "Not yet. Just found it, it's-" her teal eyes widened and she blushed, coughing once, "-well I'd rather not say."

How do I tell Elsa's roomie what her present is without sounding like a complete dork?

Meg laughed and the deep chuckle seemed genuinely pleased. Anna's muscles relaxed a bit. "Don't worry Wonder Girl. I'm sure whatever it is, she's going to love it."

The redhead's lips twitched and she picked up the picture frame, a light blush coloring her freckled cheeks. "I hope so," Anna whispered.

"Ha, you should have seen her last night and this morning," Meg quipped.

Anna blinked, blush fading from her skin. "What do you mean?"

"Oh, it's nothing serious. I've just never seen her so giddy before." Meg clicked her tongue, but before Anna could ask her what she meant, she continued. "Were you two texting last night?"

Anna frowned, brow knitting together in thought. Her heart skipped a beat and she couldn't stop a faint smile from appearing when she remembered the feel of Elsa's soft lips against hers.

It had been a small bit of heaven. So close, the touch soft and chilling. Heat bloomed on her cheeks and she pressed a few fingers to her lips when she recalled how they had brushed one another's, Elsa's soft, gasp ghosting over her face. Even the rainfall couldn't have made her feel cold at that point.

"Hello! Earth to Wonder Girl!"

Anna blinked, jarred from her reverie. "Oh sorry Meg! I, uh, no we weren't texting for long. Why do you ask?"

"Huh, it's nothing sweetheart." Her blush deepened at the affectionate nickname and she wondered if Meg was grinning cattily on the other line.

Less like a badger, more like a large cat.

"I guess she was just looking at pictures of you on her phone."

"Me?" Anna's eyebrows shot up to her hairline. "What do you mean me?"

"What, you didn't realize she had a picture of you as her lock screen?" Meg asked, surprised.

Anna's heart jumped and she swallowed, mouth dry. "What? No, I didn't—"

Her mind flashed back to the day of the museum and she stiffened, eyes widening slowly. So, that's why she asked me to—! Why, that sly kitten!

Anna grinned, fingering a loose thread on her jeans. "I see," she mumbled, eyes falling to half mast as she recalled Elsa's smile.

Her lips tingled and she brushed her thumb against them.

I miss her already and it's only been like half a day.

"And now you're day dreaming too, great."

Meg's laugh brought her back. Anna chuckled and pressed the phone close, cheeks warm. "Sorry, it's just that I haven't been able to get her out of my mind." She coughed and twirled the end of a braid. "N-not that's bad though! I love thinking about Elsa! Her brains, her smile, her voice, definitely her looks, her silence, how she's so quiet, but it's a good quiet? Um, her—"

Lips.

Anna inhaled softly and touched her own again. A shock ran through her veins.

They were so soft. And she was so nervous and yet she still...

She shut her eyes and sighed when a shiver ran up her spine, leaving goosebumps. She could feel Elsa's lips ghosting over hers, hear the soft pitter-patter of rain as it fell through the leaves and onto the grass. She could hear Elsa panting; warm, sweet breath caressing her face, filling her with so much bravery her heart threatened to burst.

"Hey Anna!"

Anna jumped, jolted from her thoughts once again. "Sorry! Sorry, what were you saying Meg?"

"Well, I was saying that if you had needed help finding Elsa a gift then I would have been happy to help you. It's actually the reason why I called, but it looks like you've already figured out something by yourself. Well done, kiddo."

Her stomach fluttered at the tenderness in Meg's voice. She bit her lip, smiling shyly at the floor. "Thanks."

There was a moment of pleasant silence between the two and Anna found herself gravitating towards the sarcastic brunette.

Then Meg let out an annoyed grunt before saying, "Anyway, I have to get back to work Anna. I can hear my boss screaming at me."

"Oh!" Anna grinned and held the phone closer. Sure enough, there was a man shouting in the background. She giggled and brushed back her bangs. "Okay then Meg. It was nice talking to you."

"Likewise," Meg said and Anna could hear the smile in her voice.

She beamed. "Later!"

Meg chuckled, "Take care Wonder Girl."

That gave Anna pause and her eyes widened.

"Wait, Meg before you go!" Anna said, suddenly remembering something. "Why do you call me—"

There was a short click and Anna was left staring at her phone. She blinked, holding it at arms length.

"...Wonder Girl," she mumbled, frowning.

I'm anything but wonderful.

She sighed and pocketed her phone, turning back to the photo in her other hand. She traced the skyscraper with one finger and despite the worry creased on her forehead, a tiny smile curled on her lips. Anna brought the picture close to her chest and held it.

Perfect.

"Found what you were looking for at last young lady?"

Anna shrieked, jumping and whirling around to see Mr. Fredricksen staring at her. In her fright, she almost dropped the picture. The redhead fumbled with it, clinging tightly to it to ensure it didn't crash to the floor.

The elderly man humphed, eyeing the frame in her arms before turning around, cane clacking against the floor. "Very well then, come with me. I'll have someone wrap it up for you. A bit harder to do that with my hands nowadays."

Anna beamed, scurrying over to his side. "Thank you sir." Her heart beat rapidly between her rib cage and she couldn't help squeezing the frame in her arms. "Really, it means a lot to me."

He grunted and glanced at her out of the corner his eyes. "I can imagine. Now, hurry up. Your friends have been hanging around the store like unleashed puppies after I told them to leave you alone."

Anna blinked, stopping when they came to the counter. "Why?"

He moved over to the register, humming, "So you could decide for yourself what gift you want for that lady friend of yours."

She shifted, gazing in thought as Mr. Fredricksen called for someone in the back room.

Myself.