When Different Worlds Collide

Chapter 39

"I saw you hanging out with him for some time here," the girl smiled. "You're really lucky to have a friend like him."

"Thanks," I said a bit uncertainly, not getting what she was exactly saying. "He's a great friend."

Hiccup nodded in agreement. "Always was."

"Oh, I'm sure he is, but that's not what I'm talking about," the girl said. "I saw him come in with his work-"

"Hey, Hiccup! Merida!"

We turned to see Jack, waving across from the room at us, gesturing wildly to come over. We looked apologetically at the girl.

"Sorry, but it looks like Mr. We're-Talking-About-Him-Now wants to show us something," I said. "I hope you don't mind."

"It's all right," the girl smiled easily. "I understand. Go enjoy the art show. It's great to see the new freshman this year taking an interest in art. Not many people do nowadays."

"Hopefully that changes soon because this is amazing," I said, looking around in awe at all of the nearby art works. I looked back to the girl and gave her a grateful smile. "Thanks for talking with us..."

"Ariel," the girl smiled, sensing my hesitation. "It's Ariel. And it was my pleasure."

..~..

A few hours into the art show and after Jack had come back from who-knows-where, we went outside to take a break and to eat lunch.

"Jack, this place is really cool," I said, chewing hungrily on my hot dog. "I really like it."

He grinned at me. "I'm glad you do. But the fun isn't over yet. There's still saving the best for last."

"Oh, right!" Rapunzel piped up. "The judges will be announcing the winners at the end of the show."

"Yep," Jack said. "I can't wait to hear who won."

"Probably not you, Frost," a familiar voice said, "or should I say you most definitely won't win."

All of us turned in our seats to glare at Hans.

"Butt out, Hans," I growled. "If you know what's good for you."

"Yeah, right," Hans snorted, smirking at me. "What're you going to do, DunBroch? Shoot an arrow at my head? Last time I checked, you can't have those kinds of things near here."

I was about to stand up and beat the guy into a pulp when I felt Hiccup place a hand on my shoulder. I looked at him and saw the look he was giving me, pleading with me not to start a fight (although I wouldn't technically be starting a fight. Hans did in the first place by coming over here and being an annoying rat). I slowly and reluctantly sat back down, still glaring at Hans the whole time.

"Aw, look at that," Hans cooed mockingly. "Nerd Boy has somehow tamed Grizzly Bear here. Such an accomplishment."

"Hans, just leave us alone," Hiccup said evenly. "It's clear that no one here wants to talk to you."

Hans held up his hands in mock surrender, smiling the whole time. "All right, I can take a hint. I'll leave all of you freaks alone."

He went back inside, where I hoped he would slip on something and land splat on his face.

"The nerve of that guy," Anna glowered into her food. "Ugh! How I'd like to punch him again like I did when I broke up with him!"

"Please do," Elsa sighed, rubbing at her temples as if she had a headache coming on. "I don't usually condone violence, but this one time wouldn't hurt."