A/N: I decided to update this first before AAFS because it's so much shorter. I'm working on the next chapter of that fic, make no mistake. But I regret to say that some severely unexpected IRL issues have cropped and my winter break has been surprisingly busy. I also apologize for the lack of review responses. I'll try to pick it up again soon as I know some of you have questions.
That said, enjoy the interaction and backstory in this chapter! Thank you all for reading, following, favoriting, and reviewing!
Pictures of you
Pictures of me
Saturday morning sunshine saw little change in her situation except for one thing.
Anna was curled up in bed, sheets kicked down and entangled in her legs. Her cell phone lay next to her chest. She had fallen asleep talking to Rapunzel and the dreams that had followed after were filled with slow-falling snowflakes, platinum-blonde hair, and a blue headband.
"Here, roll it up like this so we have a good foundation. Yeah, just like that! Now, help me out with—"
A loud, sharp screech split the air, breaking the otherwise dull atmosphere.
Anna's eyes snapped open and her brain rammed to a halt. The sound of tire wheels turning abruptly on the street echoed for a few seconds in her ears. Her heart skipped several beats and, instinctively, she braced for impact.
Oh, fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck.
There was a blur of several images before her eyes—headlights flashing, asphalt rushing closer, glass cracking, and then nothing.
"A dream," Anna panted, eyes wide. She clutched her green tank top tightly, face pale and heart beating a mile a minute. "It was just a dream," she mumbled to herself. Her eyes darted side to side, taking in her surroundings; the white ceiling and bare walls.
A super vivid dream, but just that—a dream.
Anna swallowed the lump in her throat. She tried to slow down her breathing, but her fingers remained clasped to her chest, nails digging into the fabric of her shirt. A phantom pain spread from her scalp down to her legs. She shuddered and angled her head, listening to the distant traffic noises coming from the streets.
"Woah, okay. J-just calm down Anna." Anna bit her lip, eyes flicking up to the ceiling. "It was just noise." Shakily, she checked her phone and saw it wasn't even six in the morning. Anna ran a hand down her face, trembling. "Too early for this. Go back to sleep." She nodded to herself, wriggling on her bed and repeating, "Sleep, sleep, sleep," over and over.
But as Anna closed her eyes, letting the dark creep in, the white walls of her room seemed to loom closer.
Her snapped her eyes open. She shot up from her bed, pulse quick in her throat. The adrenaline came rushing back in her veins. The after effects of her dream were too much this morning.
"No, can't stay here," she muttered frantically, kicking the sheets from her legs. She swung over to the edge, grunting and pushing her way off her bed. "Room is way, way too empty."
Her foot was an inch away from the floor when she heard a creak.
Anna stiffened, head snapping up. She stared at her door, eyes wide and neck muscles tense. Light peeked under the gap of her door, spilling from the hallway. The sounds of traffic died out and she was left with the rapid beat of her heart.
The floorboards creaked again and she saw the edge of a shadow pause before her door.
Anna gaped, heart lodging in her throat. The shadow edged closer. There was only one other occupant in the apartment and she now stood right outside Anna's bedroom door. That wouldn't have been strange in any other family, but hers...
"Elsa?" Anna whispered. Her sister's shadow shifted and Anna clutched the edge of her bed, knuckles white. Her eyes flicked to the doorknob and she swallowed thickly.
Had her sister heard the car too?
Is she going to knock?
She bit her bottom lip, waiting and listening for a sign that Elsa would come in. A part of her scolded herself for her strange eagerness. She was nearly twenty-one. She shouldn't be so affected by a short dream and car sounds. Especially not so affected that she wanted her stranger of an older sister to open the door and comfort her.
Anna snapped her jaw shut and rose off her bed just as the shadow outside her bedroom moved past.
Oh.
The redhead plopped back down on the bed, surprise flashing across her face.
"Well that's that," she mumbled to herself, shoulders drooping. Her heart rate was finally slowing down. Anna sighed and fell back onto the mattress, staring at the ceiling. Traffic reached her ears again and she twitched.
Ugh, I can't go back to sleep, but I can't go out there either. It's going to be awkward. Again.
She shut her eyes and grumbled, "I can't stay in here either though. What do I do?" Anna ran a hand down her face, muscles tensing every time she heard a car honk or screech. Cold sweat clung to her neck.
I stink too.
The sound of rushing water suddenly invaded the apartment. Anna jumped up, staring at her door. It continued and she bounced off the bed, immediately cracking her door open. Anna poked her head out.
The bathroom door was shut.
"Guess that's my break."
Of course Elsa wouldn't come inside to check up on me. Who comforts strangers?
She ducked back inside to change her shirt. She could at least do that until her sister was done showering.
I wonder if Elsa was sweating too...
Anna bit the inside of her cheek, chest tightening.
I hope not.
"Give me coffee every time. Make it warm and make it sweet!" Anna sang. "Just the way my life has been!" She paused, frowning momentarily. "Okay my life hasn't been sweet. More like topsy-turvy, but give me coffee, coffee, coffee!" She bounced and spun on her foot as she rifled through the cupboards, looking for the sugar. "And let me tell you have found yourself a friend!" The coffee machine hummed and the aroma of caffeine filled the tiny kitchen along with the sounds of traffic and still-rushing water.
Sunlight shone through the kitchen window and soothed the lingering effects from her dream.
"Aha! There you are!" Anna snatched the jar of sugar hidden behind the saltines and oatmeal. She grinned and grabbed a mug near the dishes. Her eyes flicked down to it and she stared at the dark blue and snowflake design. "Cold and wintry," she said, brow furrowing. Her lips twitched and the grin on her face softened. "So like Elsa."
At least I know that.
A memory surfaced to her brain and the mug in her hands was momentarily a snowball.
I wonder if—
"I haven't seen that dimple in forever."
Anna shrieked. The mug slipped from her fingers and she spent a few seconds juggling it in the air before grasping ahold of it tightly. She whirled around on her feet, eyes wide.
Elsa stood at the edge of the hallway with a towel wrapped around her shoulders. She was dressed in her usual business shirt and pencil skirt. Briefly, Anna wondered if she had multiples of the same outfit. The thought left her mind however, when she noticed that her sister's long, platinum-blonde hair trailed down her shoulders. It was still soaking wet, but neatly combed already. Elsa's long bangs framed her high cheekbones.
Woah, Elsa and Aurora both got that look going for them.
A butterfly fluttered in Anna's stomach.
Elsa tilted her head to the side, worry flashing in her eyes. "Anna?"
Anna's face flashed hotly. She jerked her head away, cheeks so dark her freckles were invisible. "God, Elsa don't scare me like that!" she growled.
"I didn't mean to..."
Anna felt heat travel down her neck at Elsa's innocent tone. A strange embarrassment settled in her stomach. She looked over her shoulder at her sister, pouring coffee into her cup. "W-well, you did. Make a noise next time or something."
Elsa quirked an eyebrow, dabbing at her face with the edge of her towel. The water sliding down her neck brought out the slight pink tone of her skin. "I thought you would have heard the water turn off," she said, moving to stand beside Anna.
Anna puffed up her cheeks and reached for the coffee pot. "No, I was distracted." She wasn't going to admit to her sister that she'd been singing.
Or that she'd been wondering if Elsa still loved winter as much as she used to when they were children.
"Well, think of this as evening the score."
Anna snapped her gaze to her sister. "Huh?"
Elsa was rummaging through the fridge, searching for something with one hand and a water bottle in the other. She shot Anna a half-smile. "You've already surprised me twice since you got here. About time I got payback."
Anna's lips twitched. She put the coffee pot back. "You're keeping score?" she asked, amused.
Elsa hummed an affirmative and shut the refrigerator, an apple in hand.
"I didn't peg you for the competitive type," Anna said, trying to make her tone light and teasing.
Elsa smiled slightly, blue eyes twinkling. "Well, there's a lot you don't—"
She clamped her mouth shut before she could finish the words.
But Anna already knew what she'd been about to say.
The redhead stared, blue-green eyes wide and swirling with emotion. Elsa bit her bottom lip, looking conflicted. After a few seconds of eye contact, she averted her gaze.
Anna blinked and looked down at the kitchen counter.
I guess all the little things I know about you are just too little Elsa.
Her chest tightened. She glanced sideways at her sister. Elsa clutched the apple in her hands, nails digging into the red peel. Her shoulders were up to her ears again. Her eyes bore into the ground and Anna could practically see the gears turning in her sister's head.
The redhead cleared her throat and said, laughing once, "I guess that's surprise number two."
Elsa glanced at her, curious.
Anna grinned crookedly and shrugged her shoulders. "Score's even now."
Her sister blinked. "Oh," Elsa nodded, turning her attention to the cabinet. "Right," she said softly.
Anna's smile slowly dropped. She looked down at her coffee, watching the steam rise. She drummed her fingers against the mug. She could feel their conversation slipping again. She watched her sister out of the corner of her eye. Absentmindedly, she grabbed a spoon and began to stir sugar into the hot drink.
Say something. Come on. You were doing so well just now. Don't be weird. Say something.
Elsa munched on her apple as she pulled out a box of granola bars, her back to Anna. Anna's stomach twisted and she nibbled her lip. Her eyes darted to the kitchen window when she heard a truck honk.
"Did you hear the car this morning too?"
Elsa went rigid.
Anna clamped her mouth shut, the hairs on the back of her neck rising. Wow way to go, big mouth.
Still, she couldn't deny the curiosity underneath. She wanted to know if Elsa had reacted similarly to the loud noise as she had. And, a deeper part of her hoped to provide some semblance of comfort if she had.
Anna's eyes darted all over Elsa. Her sister's shoulders were stiff and she could see the line of her shoulder blades underneath her shirt. Anna coughed and Elsa twitched. The redhead cleared her throat and went back to stirring her coffee.
"Uh, nevermind, guess I just dreamt that."
What a stupid thing to bring up. Great way to start the morning. Ask Elsa something like that. God Anna, you idiot.
"No."
This time, Anna stiffened. She glanced up from her coffee to see Elsa putting away the granola bar box. Her sister's mouth was pulled down in a grimace and the pinkness of her skin had paled.
"I did hear the car," Elsa said. Her blue eyes flicked to Anna and the younger girl swallowed at the anxious look in them. "I was hoping you didn't..."
Anna coughed and shrugged her shoulders, fiddling with another spoonful of sugar. Her cheeks heated up at the intensity in Elsa's gaze and she stammered, "Yeah, no. I mean, yes! Yes I did. Hear the car, I mean." Elsa's brow furrowed and Anna shuffled over to the refrigerator, closer to her.
The blonde nodded solemnly and finished off her apple, eyes clouding over in thought. "Well," she began and Anna perked up, blue-green eyes hopeful, "you're just going to have to get used to it." Elsa walked back into the hallway, towards her room. "It's like that in LA."
Anna watched her go, shoulders drooping. Her stomach flipped and rolled.
So much for sisterly comfort.
Anna blew at her fringe, digging into the fridge for the milk and cream. Really, she shouldn't have expected any different. Elsa had always been reserved. Ever since the separation, her sister had withdrawn.
Or was it even before that? I don't remember.
All she knew was that Elsa liked keeping her distance from people. Not just emotionally, but she even seemed to dislike physical contact to an absurd degree.
Or maybe she just hates it with me.
Her heart dropped down low. She was grateful for the cold air coming from the refrigerator. It was a better substitute than the coldness her sister had always displayed when Anna would come over to their father's house and ask her if she wanted to hang out.
Anna glanced over her shoulder in the direction of her bedroom.
Is it really just me she hates to be with? Kristoff said she had friends in LA and she's hung out with them before. Never told me about them though…
She sighed and turned her gaze back to the refrigerator, muttering, "Maybe it is just me."
The cold air hit her face again. She spied the milk and cream hiding in the middle. The light, sweet liquids and the pale morning LA sunlight sent a wave of memories rushing through her mind. The feel of Elsa snuggling into her side that snowy day, sighing in contentment as Anna pressed their cheeks together, flashed through her.
Anna's stomach twisted and she grabbed the milk quickly. No, that's not true. She doesn't like initiating it for sure though.
She dumped milk into her coffee and then cream, brow furrowing. She took a sip, thoughtful. "So maybe I'm the one who has to do it."
"Do what?"
Anna choked on her drink, sputtering. She whirled around to see Elsa buttoning up her vest.
"That really is surprise number two," she grumbled. Anna reached for the sugar again as Elsa chuckled.
Her sister ducked her head, grinning shyly. "Sorry."
Anna's chest swelled and she felt emboldened at the small smile on her sister's face. She dumped two more spoons of sugar in her coffee. "No, it's fine." She sipped her coffee again and smiled at the sweetness that poured on her tongue. "Much better."
Elsa eyed her. "Don't put too much sugar in there."
Anna held her coffee to her chest, affronted. "I didn't! Just a bit."
Her sister rolled her eyes, walking over to where her heels were. "You put like four spoons."
Anna snorted. "I hate bitter coffee."
Elsa paused and she watched in surprise as a scarlet flush spread over her cheeks. "I can't argue with you there. I don't like bitter stuff either…"
Emotion bubbled in Anna's chest and she wiggled in place, biting her bottom lip. "Does that mean you still hate kale?"
"Ugh." Elsa curled her nose in obvious distaste and Anna giggled. The blonde slipped on her heels and began to braid her hair. "I'm going to be at work late today again. Are you going to be okay?"
Anna stopped and felt her heart flip and flop at the question. She nodded quickly. "Uh, yeah. I was just going to check out if there were any part time jobs available in the area."
Elsa hummed, rummaging through her bag. "That's a good idea."
A tingle ran down Anna's spine at the subtle approval. She took another sip of her coffee and began to pop in some bread for toast. As Elsa traveled back and forth between her room and the living room, getting ready for work, Anna mulled over something else she had been wondering about.
The younger girl munched on her toast as Elsa finally stopped, brushing her braid over her left shoulder.
"Okay, I'm off to work now. Make sure to get in a good lunch."
Anna's eyebrows shot up as Elsa turned on her heel and strode to the door. "Wait, you're not taking anything for lunch?"
Her sister shook her head, twisting the doorknob. "I have a granola bar."
"That's it?" Anna frowned. "Doesn't having a healthy lifestyle include eating a whole meal?"
"I don't know if I'll have time for that today." Elsa glanced at her, biting her lip. "You remember what I told you over dinner right?"
How could I forget?
Anna nodded. "Yeah, but at least you can go out and buy lunch on your break. Can't you?"
Elsa opened her mouth and Anna took her chance.
"You did that like the second day I got here remember?"
Her sister stiffened, blue eyes widening.
The apartment went into a short, stunned silence.
Guilt flashed across Elsa's face. Anna wanted to kick herself for the look.
She glanced down at her socks. Where did that question come from? Why even bring that up? Ugh, Anna what are you thinking? Or more like why aren't you thinking? Her stomach twisted. I was just trying to get Elsa more than one dinner a week. Why did I have to go and make things weird again.
"That was a special occasion," Elsa mumbled. She fiddled with her purse, shoulders bunching up to her ears and arms curling up to her chest. "I don't think I'm going to have time for that again today."
Anna tried not to dwell on her sister's words. She had a feeling she knew why it had been a "special occasion." She just hoped she was wrong.
When Elsa remained silent, Anna exhaled loudly through her nose.
Right, come on Anna fix this.
She turned to the kitchen counter, trying to find something to lessen the awkward tension in the air. "At least eat something else besides a snack today Elsa," she said. Her eyes flicked to the fruit basket and bagels nearby. She snatched one of the whole wheat ones. "Here," she said, tossing it across the living room.
Elsa's eyes widened in surprise. "Anna!" She scrambled to catch the bagel. Anna watched with equally large eyes as her sister fumbled with the bagel. The bright red on Elsa's cheeks made her lips quirk up slightly.
That makes surprise three for me.
Her sister huffed and stuffed the bagel into her bag. "I thought Mama told you not to play with food," she grumbled, reaching up to fix a stray lock of pale hair.
Anna grinned behind her coffee mug, amusement twinkling in her eyes at the unfamiliar sight of Elsa looking childishly annoyed.
Her sister opened the door and shot her a tiny smile. "Don't wait up for me, alright?"
I always will.
Instead of voicing her thoughts, Anna just nodded and mumbled, "I'll leave some leftovers for dinner." Elsa sighed, but the redhead caught the glimmer of affection in her eyes. A larger butterfly fluttered in Anna's chest and perched on her heart. She gave a tiny wave. "Bye."
Elsa returned it before shutting the door behind her, leaving Anna standing there. Anna glanced over her shoulder to look out the balcony window, taking in the sprawling city of Los Angeles as the sun rose above the buildings.
She scrunched up her face suddenly. "I really should take a shower."
To Elsa's expectations—and hidden disappointment—work continued the same way it had been going for the past several weeks. The blonde mulled over another set of figures, granola bar half-eaten by her side.
At this rate I'm definitely going to be spending another late night here. If we had an actual drafts person to do this, the project would be at least a little less draining.
The project in question was the development of a new bank. Something she wasn't actually jumping up and down in joy at doing, but work was work.
Elsa's eyes darted to the picture next to her computer. The beautiful, towering skyscrapers made her smile slightly. Los Angeles wasn't as well-known for its architecture like New York, but the creativity and artistry that sprouted in the city's dingy streets and graffiti walls, along with the high-rising buildings and windy beaches, had been the thing that drew her to it in the first place.
Elsa picked up the picture and felt her chest swell with emotion. She remembered when she told her father about her wish to pally out of state.
"I see. Well then, you're going to need some inspiration to help you along the way then."
That had been years ago.
The blonde frowned, eyes darkening. She put the photo down and looked back at her documents.
Graduate, get the job you want, and then get stuck doing this because of your boss. Not exactly what you hoped for Elsa...
Her mind flashed to the redheaded stranger sitting in her home. Elsa grimaced, resting her chin on her palm.
Definitely not what I hoped for.
"You know I hear if you stare at something so long your eyes will fall out of your skull."
The blonde jumped in her seat. Elsa glanced up sharply to see Meg leaning on the wall of her cubicle. She grimaced. "I wasn't staring at it for that long," she said, shuffling the papers together.
Meg eyed her nails, nodding. "Yeah, ahuh, and I'm always a bright ray of sunshine."
Elsa sighed. A wave of exhaustion and exasperation rolled over her. She rubbed her eyes, fighting back a headache. "Meg, not today. I'm trying to get this done as soon as I can." She shot the brunette a questioning eyebrow. "Shouldn't you be working too anyway? I'm not the only one Mr. Weselton keeps a critical eye on."
Meg snorted and tapped her wristwatch. "I'm on break sweetheart. The Weasel can't find anything wrong with his employees having time to eat the five basic food groups."
"It's lunch time already?" Elsa frowned and glanced at her computer screen. "Oh, it is. I hadn't noticed."
"Which just proves me right about you staring at your work," Meg replied, leaning over her to poke at Elsa's papers.
"Meg,"Elsa hissed, swatting away her coworker's hand. "Don't act so surprised. We all have to do something we don't like."
"Does that include putting up with Gaston's advances?"
"Meg!"
The brunette put up her hands in a placating manner, rolling her eyes. "Fine, fine. I'll concede if you take off those damn glasses and come join us for lunch." She looked pointedly at the black glasses hanging off of Elsa's nose. "They're ugly and they hide your pretty blue eyes."
Elsa glared, ignoring the heat that crept into her cheeks at the comment. She opened her mouth, about to decline her friend's offer of lunch.
"At least eat something else besides a snack today Elsa."
Anna's words rose above the sound of humming computers, scribbling pencils, and clicking keys.
The blonde stopped, heart dropping to the pit of her stomach.
Oh Anna, I just can't get away from you can I?
Guilt, old and familiar, twisted in her chest. She bit her lip and stared down at her hands, clenching them in the fabric of her dark skirt. She still wasn't sure what to make of her and Anna's situation. Even after last night's dinner, she still felt estranged from her sister.
And whose fault is that? Whose decision was it to take up that offer out of state and move to the other side of the country when Anna was still a teenager?
Her knuckles turned white.
She hadn't listened to her baby sister for years.
Meg detected her change of mood immediately and stared at her, curious. Elsa sighed again and pulled off her glasses. "Fine," she mumbled.
The brunette beamed and straightened. "Alright, let's get some sugar in that bloodstream of yours. You know what they say, 'All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.'"
Elsa rolled her eyes, grabbing her half-eaten granola bar and standing up. "Yes and that man ended up going on a rampage and threatened to murder a young boy. I don't think his situation and mine can really be compared. He hardly counts as the average person."
"Spoiled sport," Meg said as they walked out of the office.
The rush hour for Los Angeles was usually filled with cars practically crushed together on the street as people tried to bypass each other before the intersections came up. Engines hummed and tire wheels rolled over the pavement as the heavy traffic caused everything to slow to a crawl. The terrible, blistering heat and sun boring down on the cement left most people in an irritable and foul mood.
Which was perfect for Elsa because that meant no one wanted anything to do with anyone else and that meant she was less likely to be bothered.
Except for the two people walking beside her.
"What are you two in the mood for? I'm in the mood for something tart and berrylicious. You know, something with a little surprise. A bit of 'hmm' and then 'oh!'" Olaf said as he matched Elsa step by step on the street.
Meg curled her nose, looking offput. "If your food starts making those noises then I am definitely not coming back to this cafe. I still remember the time you invited everyone to that sushi bar."
Elsa chuckled, rifling through her purse to find her hand sanitizer. "So long as it isn't full of sugar and fat, I don't care what I eat."
"Live a little," Meg said, pushing open the door to the coffee shop.
The aroma of pastries, caffeine, and sandwiches flooded Elsa's nose. She was grateful the cafe wasn't too far from work. It helped to relax her. Too far a place and she knew she'd be thinking about work every other minute.
Probably why Meg suggested the Starbucks nearby instead of something a bit more substantial.
Despite the brunette's sarcastic nature, she always kept in mind Elsa's staunch attachment to her work. Elsa smiled slightly and looked around as Meg made a beeline for the register, Olaf right on her heels. Her eyes roamed over the tables and seats, looking for an empty spot.
Where to—
Her nose twitched.
Elsa blinked, eyes slowly widening. She inhaled deeply, quietly, muscles relaxing when she smelled the familiar, sinful scent of chocolate. Her stomach growled loudly and she felt her mouth water. Her eyes fluttered shut and she swore she could almost taste chocolate on her tongue. She was already beginning to regret her earlier statement about sugar and fat. She hadn't had any semi-decent chocolate before the candy bar she had bought the other day.
"You should smile like that more often, it looks good on you."
Elsa's eyes snapped open and she whirled around to see a slim brunette standing just two feet behind her. The grin on her face made Elsa duck her head in embarrassment.
"Are you and Meg in on some entourage to butter me up today? She said something similar about my eyes," the blonde mumbled, cheeks pink.
Belle's grin just widened. She brushed past Elsa, gently nudging her with her elbow. Elsa refrained from flinching and followed her friend to a table at the far end. Belle sat down and patted the seat next to her, giving Elsa an encouraging smile. Elsa huffed slightly and settled next to her, immediately pulling out her phone to check the time. They had one hour for their lunch, but she still itched to check.
She glanced up at Belle, lips twitching into a tiny smile. "I'm guessing you got someone to look after the bookshop so you could join us?"
Belle nodded, pulling a small paperback book from her purse. She flipped it to the page that had a yellow bookmark sticking out of it. "Meg texted me and I knew I couldn't pass up on the chance of seeing you outside."
Elsa rolled her eyes. "You act as if I never go out."
"You rarely do," Belle said, an amused smirk on her face.
Elsa glared at her. "There was that nightclub I went to with you guys!"
"Yes and you and Kristoff spent the whole time being wallflowers."
Elsa grimaced and Belle chuckled. "You know outings aren't my thing Belle," the blonde muttered. She sifted through her contacts, eyes flashing when she saw the new number on her phone. Elsa placed her cell face down, clasping her hands in her lap.
"It is good to see you treating yourself to a proper break though."
Belle's soft voice made guilt churn in Elsa's stomach. She glanced sideways at the brunette, smiling slightly at the gentle look on her friend's face.
"Actually eating on your lunch break shouldn't be called treating yourself."
Both of them jumped when a sandwich was practically shoved in front of Elsa's face. She blanched, shoulders jerking as Meg sat opposite of her, plopping another sandwich in front of Belle. Her coworker chuckled and Elsa rolled her eyes. Olaf's arms were full of drinks and Elsa smiled gratefully at him when he gave her a sweet tea, cold to the touch. The summer heat made the drink look even more desirable. She grabbed her sandwich, sagging slightly in her seat.
"You didn't have to," Elsa said as she unwrapped her sandwich. "I could have picked one out for myself." Despite her words though, fatigue finally seeped through her bones and she bit hungrily into her food, moaning happily.
"I know you hate going up to counters," Meg replied, waving her hand and digging into her own sandwich.
Olaf bounced into his seat next to Meg, eyes lighting up when he spotted Belle. "Oh, hi Belle! You're joining us for lunch too?"
Belle winked. "Didn't want to miss it. Meg invited me so I got Milo to take over my shift while I went on my break."
Meg smirked and settled more comfortably into her seat, looking content and accomplished. "I managed to convince most of our workaholic friends to take a break. Score one for me."
Elsa snorted and rolled her eyes. "You didn't convince me, you guilt-tripped me." She began to delicately nibble on her food, stomach growling in sheer delight. A granola bar didn't match up to something more substantial. "And besides I have every reason to stress over work."
Olaf sipped his drink. "Still, it's a good idea to take breaks every now and then Elsa," he pointed out. His dark eyes searched hers. "You'd probably get a lot more done on a full stomach."
For some reason, Anna's smile flashed in her mind's eye.
Elsa blinked, chewing slowly. A warm feeling bloomed on her cheeks and swelled in her chest. She remembered back to their morning conversation. Anna had been adamant about her eating something.
Elsa felt another sudden twinge of guilt.
The bagel remained in her handbag, still uneaten.
She'd be happy about this though, wouldn't she?
Her younger sister likely would be.
But I bet she'd probably wish I would eat with her more often.
Elsa swallowed thickly. The guilt in her increased. She knew her continuous distance hurt, but after everything the two of them had been through, she wasn't going to take anymore chances.
But I can't just keep ignoring her now that she lives with me.
"You know soon as this project is done, I'm going clubbing."
Elsa snapped out of her trance to see Meg bite viciously into her sandwich. She looked frustrated and exhausted. The blonde's lips twitched. No doubt her coworker was pretending her sandwich was their boss's head.
"Preferably away from certain people that make you lose your appetite," Meg grumbled. She sipped her drink, annoyed.
Elsa shifted in her seat, well aware that her coworker was talking about Gaston. Belle glanced at her, a sympathetic look in her eyes. Elsa just shrugged and gave her an exasperated smile. Meg's right though. I don't understand how Belle was able to put up with him for so long.
A grin split Olaf's cheeks suddenly. "Speaking of celebrations!" Elsa's expression softened when she noticed him wiggle in his chair. "You know what would be really nice? If we all went out together! Or, ooh!" His face lit up and he waved his sandwich in the air, "If we all went—all of us, including Kristoff—and you invited your sister Elsa!"
Elsa's spine went ramrod straight. She swore she heard it pop as her back hit the chair.
Belle glanced at her, eyebrow quirked. "Actually now that we're on the topic of that, that's something I wanted to ask you about Elsa."
Meg stopped chewing to stare.
Elsa ducked her head, biting her lip. Her hands shot down to her lap, fingers wringing ceaselessly. "I don't think that would work," she mumbled. The hair on the back of her neck rose. She raised her eyes to peek through her bangs, shoulders up to her ears. "Anna's only twenty. She wouldn't be allowed into a club if they had a strict rule of underage drinking."
"We could go somewhere else," Meg said, shrugging. "So long as the place has liquour, I don't care where I drink my head off."
"Maybe dancing!" Olaf offered, clapping his hands together.
Elsa paled.
"So her name is Anna?"
Belle's innocent question drew everyone's attention.
Elsa blinked, frowning. She fidgeted in her seat before nodding. "Yeah, her name is Anna."
"Finally, we've got a name for the face!" Meg drawled, amusement in her violet eyes. "Now if only we had a face for the name."
Elsa snorted, but Belle turned to her. "You know she's right. You've never really told us about your sister before. In fact, I didn't even know you had a sister until you told us she was flying over from New York."
Another hot flash of guilt rushed through Elsa, this time with a little mix of pain. She bit her lip and shrugged. "We don't get along that well. We haven't really had a full conversation until recently."
And whose fault is that?
She ignored the small voice in the back of her head.
Their table quieted. She knew they were staring at her in concern. She dug her tooth harder into her bottom lip, recalling the event from the morning. The shrieking car incident had caused a harsh jolt of fear. She'd instantly woken up from her restless sleep. Her first instinct had been to check around her room before she had reminded herself where she was.
She had wanted to check on Anna too.
Oh, Anna.
"How do you pronounce her name?" Olaf blurted out. They stared at him. He grinned awkwardly. "I've never heard that name pronounced like that before. I was curious." Olaf turned his attention on Elsa, buck tooth poking out. "Ah-nuh?" he asked.
Elsa blinked several times. Upon closer inspection, her younger friend had a knowing look in his eye. Surprise flashed through her.
He's doing that because he knows I'm uncomfortable.
Olaf was strangely perceptive at times.
She chuckled and shook her head. "Ah-nuh," she said slowly, stressing the first syllable. A shiver ran down her spine as her sister's name rolled off her tongue. It had been a long time since she had discussed her baby sister with anyone. Elsa smiled slightly, rubbing her fingertips together. "It's pronounced like that in Norway. Papa and Mama were Norwegian."
She ignored the old wound that throbbed in her chest every time her parents were mentioned.
"So do you have pictures or do we have to wait forever some more to know what she looks like?" Meg asked. She placed her chin on her palm, smirking at Elsa's indignant look.
"Oh, do you Elsa?" Olaf asked, eyes bright and shining.
"Yes, I'd love to see what this mysterious sister of yours looks like," Belle teased gently.
Elsa coughed, feeling her cheeks pink. She fumbled with her phone, brow creasing as she thumbed through it. "I actually don't," she admitted, neck burning. "At least not many."
After the separation, her family hadn't exactly been privy to photos. At least, not ones together.
Elsa flipped through her albums. She scrolled immediately to the one her mother had sent her. "Except this," she said, holding her phone upright.
Her friends leaned in, excitement and curiosity apparent on their faces. Then Meg frowned, one fine eyebrow rising to her hairline. "Your sister looks like a punk," she blurted out.
"Excuse me?!" Elsa squeaked.
Belle giggled, snorted more like, in sudden laughter. Olaf shot Meg a disapproving look, but the tall brunette just shrugged. "What? She does."
Elsa sputtered and pulled the phone back, holding it to her chest. A defensiveness she hadn't felt in ages surged through her. "She's not some rebel. Besides she was thirteen at the time. What sort of trouble could she have gotten into?" Another twinge of guilt stabbed at her and she ignored the small voice in her head that said she had basically indicated the same thing the other day. Elsa flipped her phone over, frowning at the old photo of Anna.
Her sister was glaring at the camera, cheeks puffed up and face red. Her usual braids had been finished off with a pair of dark green ribbons and Elsa could tell that Anna was uncomfortable in the pressed white blouse. The pale streak had been evident even then. She had avoided looking at the camera when their mother had snapped the photo.
"It was Picture Day," Elsa said, chewing on her bottom lip. "Anna hated getting dressed up when she was younger."
I wonder if she still does.
"I think she looked sweet," Belle giggled. "Pigtails at that age? Adorable."
Elsa's lips twitched. She looked back at the photo and traced the edge of Anna's freckled cheek with her index finger. Her eyes softened and her chest swelled with an indescribable emotion. "She is, isn't she?"
Even at twenty, Anna was still privy to the same hairstyle. She hadn't even gotten rid of the white streak after so many years.
At least that hasn't changed.
"You must love her a lot."
Elsa stiffened, blue eyes flicking up. Olaf stared at her, brown eyes searching hers. Meg and Belle exchanged glances.
The young man shrugged, grinning. "You don't smile at anyone else like that Elsa."
The blonde felt her breath catch in her throat. The warmth in her chest intensified. She felt her pulse race faster and her heart skipped a beat. Elsa hurriedly slipped her phone in her handbag, the tips of her ears red.
"That's nothing to be shy about," Meg said, all traces of sarcasm gone from her voice. "Isn't that a normal thing? Loving your sibling?" Meg raised an eyebrow when Elsa glanced at her. "Especially if it's your baby sister?"
Elsa shook her head, sipping her tea. "Not all siblings get along." She sighed and stared down at the table. "Besides, it's complicated."
Her friends exchanged looks.
"Well, maybe celebrating with us after this bank project is over with could help you two out." Olaf spread his hands, hopeful. "Your sister would probably jump at the chance."
She would.
Elsa curled her arms around her torso, sinking into her chair. "I don't know."
Except that you do and you just don't want to admit that you don't want Anna around you.
She mentally cringed at her own thoughts. Belle nudged her gently with her elbow, offering a small, encouraging smile. "You won't know the ending to a book if you don't go through it," she said softly.
"Unless you just skip to the ending," Elsa muttered. Her brow creased and she stared at her tea. The LA summer heat had made the ice cubes melt faster and now the cold squares were merely lumps. They dangled in her cup uselessly. Elsa swallowed, something thick and sticky in her throat. "Between me and Anna..."
She remembered so vividly the hurt look on Anna's face when she left her in New York. When she left her all the times before too.
But I made a promise to myself.
"It's complicated."
Anna jerked awake. She blinked, sluggish to the core and confused.
What the?
She groaned and lifted her head, peering above the couch to glimpse the clock. "7:30," she mumbled. She failed to stifle a yawn. Anna rubbed one eye, flopping back down and making the newspaper on her lap wrinkle. "Ugh, now I'm not going to be able to fall asleep tonight."
Today had proved to be a lazy day for her. She had showered after Elsa left, but the summer heat had made it go to waste. She had run down to the convenience store to get something and had scampered back to the apartment as quick as she could. Even that small trip had left her sweating, panting as the sun heated up her neck and bare arms.
Anna groaned again and touched her back. There was a thin sheen of sweat between her shoulder blades. "Oh come on," she whined, rolling over and pushing her face into a cushion. "I'm in a tank top and boxers. Do I really have to shower again?"
A bead ran down her spine.
"Guess so," she grumbled to the empty apartment. Anna pushed herself to her feet, arms swaying limply as she stumbled to the bathroom. "How does Elsa stand this heat? She always wears those stiff suits."
The mention of her sister made Anna pause. She blinked, frowning.
I wonder how Elsa's doing at work.
The subject of their dinner conversation last night hadn't left the corners of her mind. Her older sister was being overworked to the bone because her boss was a stubborn jerk. At least in Anna's opinion he was.
Even though I haven't met him but still. What kind of guy doesn't hire more people when he has the cash?
She growled and kicked the bathroom door open. The heat, nap, and Elsa's situation was making her irritable. "I oughta give that guy a piece of my mind," Anna muttered. She stripped off her tank top and shorts. Goosebumps spread over her skin at the sudden change in temperature. She reached up to unbraid her hair, nose curling in distaste. "Elsa deserves way better than what she's getting."
Especially after all the stuff she had to put up with in school.
Anna's fingers slowed and her heart twisted. Her sister had been painfully shy in school, to the point of being very reclusive at times. She'd been a prime target for comments and prodding. Things had only gotten worse as she got older. Nonetheless, Elsa had remained polite and sweet. Anna hardened her jaw, pulling off the rest of her clothes and jumping into the shower. She turned the knob and the cold water stemmed the anger that flared hotly in her veins.
"I should do something for her," Anna mumbled. She grabbed the soap bar and began to wash, brain beginning to race. "I can cook dinner every night. I'm not great, but I'm not terrible. Right soapy? I'm not a terrible cook. Auntie gave me some tips when I had to be alone in the house."
She scrubbed her skin, brushing over freckles and faint scars. "I'm going to have to ask her what she likes. I mean, tastes change when you get older." She held up the shampoo bottle, nibbling on her bottom lip. "Do you think she still hates mushrooms? Mama said that Papa could never get her to eat those."
Anna on the other hand was a bottomless pit. A bottomless pit that happened to lean towards junk food, but a bottomless pit nonetheless.
"I mean I'll eat just about anything. Except pasta. Hate the texture, that's just too much starch. And onions. And I don't like papaya, but Elsa never liked that either so maybe it's okay." She poured a generous blob of shampoo onto her palm and smacked it upon her head, voraciously lathering her hair. "Well, but I lean toward fatty, greasy, gross goodness and she eats lean, clean, and not-at-all-mean."
A bit of shampoo slid into her eye. Anna shrieked in pain and dumped her head into the water, rubbing furiously. "I just have to make sure not to mess up when I cook!" she gargled, blinking back tears.
God knows I'm tired of messing things up.
Anna grinned despite the tears prickling in her eyes. "Yeah, I'll make her dinner every night! At least some leftovers or something that she can eat when she gets home. Since she doesn't want me staying up late every night."
I'll think of some other stuff to lighten the load for her. Since I'm here now, time to buck up and be the best little sister I can be!
Anna hummed for the rest of her shower.
Twenty minutes later and she was tugging down her camisole, practically skipping to the living room. She plopped in front of the television, remote in one hand and cell phone in the other. She flipped the television on and the apartment was filled with noise.
"—and now we join our heroes again in—"
Anna let the narration wash over her as she sped through her contacts. Her heart pumped faster as she stopped over one and began to type.
"What do you want for dinner," Anna murmured. She pressed send. A comfortable atmosphere, a truly comfortable atmosphere, settled over her. Anna grinned and snuggled onto the couch, drawing her knees to her chest as she watched the television and waited.
The sun was finally settling. The sky was painted an array of orange and pink, the blues from earlier disappearing as night drew closer. It bathed the apartment in a faint orange and gold. The white walls felt warm.
Her phone buzzed.
Anna stifled a squeal and quickly checked.
"Have whatever you want. I already said not to stay up for me."
"Ugh, Elsa." Anna rolled her eyes. "I took a nap. I'm not going to be tired for a while. Just tell me what you like. I can leave a dish for you to heat up." Her tongue poked out of her mouth as she replied.
This time her sister's response wasn't immediate. Anna fidgeted as she divided her attention between the television, her phone, and the traffic noises outside.
She chewed on her fingernail. "I hope I wasn't too pushy."
Anna squeaked when her phone buzzed again.
"Can you make pasta? I think there's some spaghetti noodles in the cabinet."
She blanched. "Ugh, of course she asks for pasta." She had the worst luck when it came to jinxing herself. Anna slumped in her seat. A smile twitched on her lips however. She could add pasta to the list of things she knew Elsa liked. "Yeah I can make pasta. Are you fine with just noodles, sauce, and veggies? There's not a lot in the fridge."
"That's fine. I need to go out grocery shopping soon I guess."
A tingle ran down her spine at the quick response. Anna's fingers flew over her phone screen. Vaguely, she was aware of the protagonist complaining about her love interest.
"You can let me take care of that," she mumbled, eyes darting back and forth over the letters. "I've got lots of free time until classes start."
There was a long pause between her message and Elsa's response. Anna occupied herself by grabbing a water bottle from the kitchen and giggling at the episode's side plot. She couldn't stop tapping her foot while she waited though.
Even Elsa can't find a flaw in my logic.
When her phone buzzed, Anna nearly dropped it.
"Then I'll make a list of essentials. And save your own cash for class supplies."
Anna snorted, thumb already hovering over the keypad. Another messaged popped up before she could reply.
"That's not an argument. Let me pay for the groceries. Your savings are savings Anna."
She rolled her eyes. "Yes mother," Anna said to herself. Quickly, she sent: "Fine, fine. But I'll get a job soon, okay?"
Anna counted to three.
"Part-time. Leave room for school work."
She giggled. Warmth bloomed in her cheeks and she felt her smile stretch all the way to her ears.
Look at us! Having a normal conversation.
Her heart skipped a beat.
"I have to get back to work now. Try and get some sleep."
Anna bit down on her bottom lip harshly, worry springing up. "Oh fuck, I hope Elsa doesn't get in trouble for texting at work." She hunched over her phone as she typed: "See you soon."
A pause. She fingered the pale streak in her hair. Then:
"Goodnight Anna."
Anna blinked as the conversation ended. She held her phone to her lips and after several seconds, it shut off. Anna flicked it back on quickly, staring at the lock screen. Elsa's delighted face smiled back at her. Anna brushed her thumb across the hand that covered her sister's mouth. Her chest tightened at the sight of them so happy. She closed her eyes, knees to her torso, and kissed the photo.
"I love you," she whispered to the empty apartment.
Reminds us all of what we used to be