A/N: I hope this chapter makes up for all the angst that we all experienced. *prays and pouts*

All thanks to my amazing beta, sedryn!

EDIT: yes, elsanna is end-game.

4 months in

"So, no work today?"

"Mm," I hummed, looking down to the plate of food Belle made for us. I was sitting across from her, tired eyes blanking out into space. For some reason, I'd been less talkative—especially when I would be coming home late at night. Sleeping had been a chore and nothing good would come out of just closing my eyes for a few peaceful hours.

Looking out to the streets, everything was covered in little white flakes of snow. The clouds were dark, hiding the sun from its view and warmth. Though, it was warm in here opposed to the frigidness outside.

Still snowing…

I didn't mind the snow, however. Besides, I liked the cold, it'd always reminded of myself.

Belle looked at me silently and I'd yet to realize this atmosphere was getting heavy. It was a nice day out, however between the two of us, it was anything but nice.

I looked up finally when she grabbed her plate and put it in the sink. She let the water run, sighing as she turned and leaned against it.

Right when I knew something was wrong, I paused my motions "What is it?"

Hearing those three words, her eyes rolled in the most irritated way. "What is it?" she repeated. "You've been so quiet lately, is everything okay?"

I got up, walking up to her with a plate in my hand. We stared at each other and I sighed, rubbing the bridge of my nose. "I… I'm sorry, I'm just…" I put the plate in the sink, finding her hands around my waist under my shirt. I could only smile slightly. "I'm just tired."

Belle breathed out and on the inside, I knew I had to feel a little bit guilty. I was not. "I've told you to get home earlier, haven't I? You never listen—or have you been doing stuff that I shouldn't—"

A scoff came out, a surprised chuckle slipping out of my lips. I cradled her cheeks, warm against my palm. "No, no… I wouldn't do something so… well, dirty to you, Belle." I grinned warmly, a little worried by her dreadful countenance.

She scowled, eyebrows against each other tightly. Belle tilted her head, "No, you've… for the past few weeks, I feel like… you've changed."

I tilted my head. "How?"

"You've gotten happier—well," she looked at me up and down, "happier… and fitter…" She ran her fingers around to my stomach, feeling myself gave out a little squirm and her fingers pressing digits on my abs. "But tired."

"Happier…" I couldn't help but to look away from her. My eyes found its way to the ceiling and I could see myself, arms wrapped together. I wondered if what she said was true… "Do you really thinking that, Belle…?"

Belle wrapped her arms behind me when she slowly, quietly came up to me. Resting her chin on my shoulder, she whispered, "I mean… I would like to believe it, if you would… you know, talk to me occasionally. I always get merely just a sentence or two from you—"

"Belle you know I'm always busy, I still have emails to go through, folders to look over…" I sighed, turning her in front of me to see her smile dipping down into a frown. "I… I don't the time—"

"But you have time to talk to Anna Smith?"

I turned away with a soft, angered huff. Letting go of her, I ran my fingers through my messy morning fringes. I had to walk around the space I had in the living room, unable to look into her eyes. I couldn't because I knew, she was right.

She stood where she was. "You're not going to answer me?"

I looked down to the ground. "Anna… she needs my attention—"

"And you think I don't, as much?"

Oh god, what is this?

I had myself relax and turn to her, eyebrows scrunched sadly to her. "Oh Belle, of course you do—" I closed my eyes, swearing under my breath as she bumped into me, walking past me.

"I'm going back home," she murmured when I turned to her. "I'll see you later, Elsa—"

"Belle, wait," I interrupted, coming up to her. "You can't… you can't just go."

"Yes, I can!" she yelled, her voice cracking and so was my heart, pieces by pieces. Surprised, I was left speechless, unable to walk up to her and grab her. She looked at me, eyes piercing through mine like needles. I let her open the door, just watching her in the deafening silence.

"Belle…"

She let out a sniffle. "I'm going back to my apartment… I'll come back when I'm ready. Clean up those things in the bedroom." Without letting me even say anything else, she slammed the door behind her back.

With the water running, the clock ticking slowly, I stared at the white door. I couldn't believe this—was I this… fucked up that I had to push two girls that I'd loved away from a monster like me? I took a deep angry breath in, slowly sliding myself down against the wall.

Blue eyes fell upon to my arms on my lap, red marking my wrists from our activities the night before. I'd taken comfort from Belle and her love, yet I'd given back nothing but despair. No, not just to her, but to Anna Smith, as well.

Swallowing, I leaned my head back against the wall, eyes to the ceiling. What a pathetic view of me.

I closed my eyes, fingers burrowed through my hair. There was nothing I could have said to make anyone feel better—to trust me, to make them realize I wanted nothing but redemption, forgiveness. I had nothing else to say other than two words.

"Damn it." But really, I only wanted to have the courage to say, 'I'm sorry'.

"So… I'm coming back to LA tomorrow."

I blinked, almost choking on my water. Instead I let out a long string of coughs.

"E-Elsa? Are you alright?!"

I nodded, quickly grabbing a tissue. I continued coughing, wheezing against the thin paper.

It'd been a long day, staying at home as I indulged myself into work—like always. I stared at her, completely speechless. She'd never told me her plans before, and now she had the guts to tell me she was coming back tomorrow? Ridiculous. Especially when it was late in the night, Belle fast asleep in her room.[ST1]

"I'm…" I wheezed out, leaning myself against my seat. I sighed, looking at her with frustration. "No, I'm not fine… when did you plan on telling me this?"

She shrugged, "I thought it'd be a surprise."

Shaking my head at her answer, I watched her nervously chew on her lip. "I am not a person who is fond of surprises," I mumbled, voice soft and she swallowed, loud enough for me to hear. Her lip was still caught between her teeth and I wished I could just bite-No.

But, what was this? She looked at me, her eyes glowing with different shade of teal—much darker, too familiar.

No, it couldn't be.

Clenching my jaw together, I wrapped my fingers together, elbows resting on the armrests. I crossed my legs together while she fidgeted. "Should I pick you up?"

Goodness, changing the topic was harder than saying 'I love you' to Belle. This vibe didn't change, nevertheless.

Anna looked down to her hands, palm rubbing against each other. "I thought… you wouldn't want to see me."

God, such an idiot.

I shook my head. "I'd love to see you. With Hans?"

"Y-Yeah with Hans. But…later… he wants me to spend time with you… if that's alright. It's only for a week."

Only a week was plenty of time to make up for what I'd done. A day would suffice as well.

What was I supposed to do with my heart pounding like I'd just ran a marathon and my reward was her? No, I wasn't excited for this… it was more of, well, nervous. Scared. Depressed. I wouldn't know what'd happen if she really was coming back. But even with these thoughts, I smiled as brightly as I could. I had to welcome her.

"I'm happy that you're coming back."

"I… I'm happy too." Her eyes didn't seem to change. What did she want? Even with her lips stretching to a grin painfully slowly, her pupils were dark like she was… longing- excited to be with me, as I was the opposite. No, she'd looked at me like this before.

Anna had always looked at me like this in bed, her body aching for release, for my pleasure. The look she'd always give me as her voice wailed out my name, as I grabbed her by the hair, a hand making red imprint on her thighs and her rear. The look that she'd always had when she wanted more—when she begged for more pleasure, tears streaming down her cheeks as it was too much for her—

Frowning slightly, I tilted my head and chills quickly crawled through the back of my neck.

She wants …

We stared into each other's eyes, with the clear knowledge of how much we needed—not just want—each other.

"Anna…"

The redhead chuckled, an arm wrapped around her. It sounded so beautifully, but it haunted me so wonderfully. "We… can't do this, can we? You know, looking at each other without thinking about… about that."

"No, we can't," I replied bluntly and truthfully.

She picked her head up, head tilted with a… well, a feared look with a small smile across her face. "What will happen, Elsa…? What's going to happen to us if we meet?"

I could only shrug, thinking the same question. "I… wouldn't know, Anna. We'll see. Tomorrow, we'll see."

Anna couldn't even make eye contact, playing with her fingers nervously. "You're right," she murmured. "Tomorrow, we'll see. So… pick me up in the airport…?"

"What about Hans?"

"He has um… a meeting to go to right away, so… yeah, I'm alone, I guess."

Nodding immediately, I told her, "Of course, I'll pick you up."

"W-What about Belle?"

Damn it.

I looked away, my mind wandering to the other girl for a second, who'd ran away from my clutch in tears hours ago. I'd have to talk to her. "I'll… take care of it. Don't worry."

"Okay…" she replied, yet she looked at me quite worriedly. "Okay."

I looked at the time in my car. 11:30AM.

Maybe I was getting too nervous, tapping my finger on the leather of my steering wheel. I'd hoped that it'd make time go back faster-but it was just nervous tapping. I continuously looked out of my window but nobody seemed to be out. I'd been here for two hours, getting almost zero sleep before getting here.

Sighing I leaned my head against the headrest, my hands slowly falling to my lap before tugging my black tie slightly for a little breather.

"Belle…" I mumbled to myself, huffing my chest out as I inhaled.

She was in bed, on her side as I wrapped my arms around her waist. I pressed my naked body against her back, her warmth against my heartbeat. It was quiet between the two of us, but I knew she was awake as I kissed her neck, repeatedly. She shivered, sighing quietly.

"Elsa…" she breathed, her hand slowly sliding up under the blanket. She held mine, fingers laced together tightly and we never let go. "Don't you think you're kissing me too much?"

"There's never too much when it's you," I whispered, my lips pressed to her ear. I sighed, as she turned holding my cheeks in her warm palms.

"Tell me, are you thinking about this morning, or is it something else?"

I shook my head, holding her hand. "You wouldn't like what I'm about to say because it's not this morning."

She frowned. "What is it?"

This deafening silence fell upon us and it felt risky to tell her now when she was giving me such a conflicting stare. "Tomorrow… Anna is coming back," I told her, shutting my eyes. I just couldn't bear to see how hurt she'd be right now.

Belle was quiet for moment, her hand slipping away from mine, but I held her tightly. It wouldn't be surprising if she wanted to run away. But I couldn't let her so I opened my eyes. She was looking down. The pillow was wet and I realized, tears were glistering down to her pillow.

Sighing, I ran my fingers through her hair, slowly bringing my lips against her forehead.

"She's coming back…"

I nodded, hearing her sniffle and I tucked her under my chin. She hugged me tightly, her arms shaking as if she couldn't bear to let go of me. "She's coming back," I repeated softly to comfort her, at the very least.

"Just a visit?"

"Just a visit," I replied back. "I'd like to see her… if you'd let, I want to talk things out with her…"

Belle didn't make a noise so I assumed she needed to think. I hugged her, running my palm in circles on her back. Her hair brushed on my fingers and god, she was so soft and extremely fragile. I blinked when she nodded. "Okay… I'll let you two talk on your own."

That was a surprise so I pulled her away, glaring with confusion. I held her arms tightly, red marks imprinting her skin. "Belle, are you—"

"You need it, Elsa," she said, lifting her fingers to my hair. I nearly gave out a hum, leaning into to pleasure of her fingertips running through my scalp. "Anna knows you do to. I'll allow it… Besides, tomorrow, I'll be gone the whole day."

"You… You are?"

She nodded, a smile slightly stretching through her cheeks. Was she really happy? I could nearly hear her heart cracking. "I've got a friend to visit. He came here from Paris, anyway."

And I allowed that. I looked into her eyes, my lips mouthing an apology and a thank you.

Belle just chuckled. "Well… if you want to thank me…" I nearly gasped as she quickly rolled on top of me, the blanket flying off the bed. My eyes widened, heart quickening with each beat as she grabbed my hair. My head tilt back with a surprised gasp and her breath against my ear. It was quickly getting hot, as she pressed her body against my front.

She grabbed my arms, pressing them against my sides.

"Belle…" I husked, eyes blacked with nothing but the thoughts of what she'd do to me. I was scared, yet, it was exhilarating. She grinned, her lips lightly pecked against mine. My whole world stopped and it was only us. I wanted more, but she pulled away quickly.

"You'll have to thank me with your body."

I looked down to my wrists, as I rolled my sleeves up. They were redder than before, marks encircled. I touched my right wrist, running my cold two fingers against the red lines that bonded me before. Though, I couldn't remember what'd happened. But I knew, she was the one that left me in a puddle of mess this morning, leaving me aching between my legs and the smell of musky sex filling the room.

The smirk she had this morning while she wore my shirt was… god. And she left me, alone with nothing but a kiss on my cheek, and me looking blankly at the ceiling and spread eagle.

Sighing, I looked out the window to see crowds of people striding out of the sliding doors. My heart raced and skipped and, I managed to tidy myself up and got out of the car.

I leaned against it, hands in my pocket as I waited for the redheaded girl to come out. My woman.

And then I saw her, a suitcase rolling behind her. She saw me, stopping her track as she stared at me. Had she gotten older… thinner… happier? My throat unable to create any sounds to greet her. She was just right there, as beautiful and strong as ever. Our eyes never left each other and so were any signs of wanting to speak. Of course, after everything, there were too many things things to say to each other that nothing was coming out of our beautiful lips.

"Elsa."

I blinked at the suddenness. I hadn't heard her voice, so clear and so wonderful, for so long. This was how it always sounded?

She smiled slightly and I couldn't help but look down with a slight grin as well.

"Welcome back, Anna," I replied. I noticed her suitcase and reached my hand out. "May I?"

"H-Huh?" She looked back. Good, as clumsy and dorky as ever. "O-Oh! Here, sorry, it's… a little heavy."

I held onto the handle, feeling her hand brush against mine. Was it ever this soft? "No, that's alright. I'm strong enough." Opening the back of the car, I lifted her luggage up and inside with little to no effort. She looked surprised, possibly amused… maybe… admiring me?

Slamming the back door down, I noticed her biting her lip again. She'd been doing that quite a lot recently…

I opened the front door for her, grinning. "Anna."

"Elsa." She nodded and got inside. We quickly drove off in silence.

She'd been staring out to the window the whole time even when there was nothing but the ocean beneath us. Waves crashed through the frozen dark surface, fighting against the wind and each other. I couldn't help but send her a short glance every once in a while. But it was getting hot in here, even when the ground was covered in dirt snow and the ocean was frozen from the cold.

I opened the window slightly, sighing as I inhaled the fresh air brushing past us.

But, where should we start?

"Elsa."

I nearly crashed into the car in front of us, hearing her talk suddenly. "Yes?"

She didn't turn to me. "I hope… I didn't ruin anything between you and Belle—"

Quickly I looked straight ahead, my knuckles white on my steering wheel. "Don't worry about it. If anything, it's all on me."

Anna turned to me, but she was speechless. And I knew why. We were different now, as opposed to who we were months before. We'd grown and she'd grown into a beautiful, mature woman who I did not deserve. Still. Possibly, yet.

"I hadn't seen you for so long…" she murmured. She'd changed. "Y-You look…"

What a cute attempt to start something so… friendly, was the word? We tried avoiding being so bitter towards each other.

I had to chuckle while I could see her cheeks flaming red, looking away from me. Still, she could see my reflection and I could see her mumbling curses under her breath.

"You look beautiful too, Miss Smith."

"Y-You still call me that…" she huffed, an arm crossed on her stomach.

I tilted my head, finding her fingers fiddling with the tip of her hair. How could she look nervous now? It wouldn't be a surprise if she still… found me hilariously intimidating. "Well, why wouldn't I?"

She shrugged. "I just thought… y-you know, after everything, you'd call me normally."

With nothing else to say, I gave her a nod apologetically. "I hope things… aren't awkward between us," I started, seeing her looking startled from my words, an anxious snicker falling out of her lips.

"O-Of course not! It's just… it's strange. Everything… seems new—"

"Well, don't we both want a new start?"

This silence, I didn't like it. Whether she was going to answer my question or not, I couldn't care less. Either way, a new start was what we were going to get. Nothing toxic… nothing that seemed as if we wanted each other.

"Anna, when I slapped you, I—"

"No, I get it. It's alright."

She stared at me, lips falling from its usual grin.

Her freckled palms balled into a fist, nails piercing her skin, leaving four half-moon indents. I looked over to her for a second, catching a glimpse of bitterness. "But of course, I do… want to start anew."

We arrived to a café moments later, quickly finding a place to park in front. We sat in silence, and I could not look at her, eyes set straight forward on the car in front of us.

"We were something special, Elsa," she said. Anna turned to me.

My heart tightened with each beat, her word echoing through my ears. "Yes," I whispered, finally having the courage to look into her eyes. "We were…"

Anna and I were having no care of what was surrounding us. We were in our own little world, peaceful, but dark. I took a quick breath in, and I was hesitant to reach towards her… craving for her familiar touches while she looked at me with such an intimate gaze. And she noticed, licking her lip. Although she didn't bother, taking my hand in hers.

"I missed you," I muttered.

"As do I."

I grinned slightly, seeing her expression soften. "You're famished, let's get some food?"

Anna blinked. "Oh, uh… yeah, god, I'm starving!"

We quickly got out of the car and found a table for two outside. It didn't take long for our food to come and we had some small talk meanwhile. It'd been hard trying to avoid the topic of the past and… well, our break up. Still, Anna couldn't help bringing it up as we ate.

"What was I like… 15 years ago, I mean?"

I nearly choked. "Excuse me?"

"You heard me," she said, taking a bite of her burger. "I know, I remember but… I'd like to hear it from you."

Surprised, I end up giving her an amused chuckle, leaning myself back. "Well, it's true, that you're much more different than how you used to be." I caught her attention, eyes widening and she propped her elbows on the table. She leaned forward, knowing that she was going to hear some interesting stories.

I sighed, looking back when we were only children. "You… weren't as feminine as you are now. You were… I'll be honest, you looked like a boy"

"Seriously?" She looked at herself, dressed in a white shirt, red flannel, and jeans. "You think I look feminine?"

"Most of the time when… well," I swallowed. "When we were together."

A pause. It was discomforting, really, and we were trying to avoid talking about the time when we were living happily together. But I wouldn't call what we had as a happy ending either. I could only see the heartbreak in her eyes, my head tilted slightly to hide myself from mine. I needed control. My eyes were blank, finger tapping on the table. "But… You were always so brave and so… happy, no matter what the situation was," I told her. She looked down and I felt relief when she grinned sweetly.

But I continued, "You always injured yourself… but, every time we're together, you always ask me to play you this one song—"

"Do you want to build a snowman?"

I chuckled, looking down. Talking about this was quite embarrassing and seeing her laugh along with me was just refreshing. "Your mother always sang it when it was time for you to sleep."

"Well, that, I don't remember—" Suddenly she frowned, eyes not on mine but down to my arm. "Elsa…"

I blinked, giving her a slight frown, before I realized what she was staring at. The marks.

Before I could even pull my arm out of her sight, she quickly grabbed it, tugging forward and I grimaced painfully at her tight grip.

"What the hell is this…?" she muttered, rolling my sleeve up, to find red marks around my wrist, dry blood and fresh red scars going across my skin. She ran her fingers on the bumps and indent, eyebrows narrowed to a sickened glare. As if she needed to puke, looking at the reds.

"Anna, stop—" I tried pulling back, but she was just too strong. When was she ever this strong? She looked at me, eyes widened in fear, her hand trembling against mine. Tears rested near the corner of her eyes. Oh, the horror she had on her face. She misunderstood.

"What did you do…?" she whispered.

"Anna—"

"WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO?!" Her grip tightened.

Everyone in the café grew quiet and I winced at her fingernails piercing through my skin. "WHY?! WHY DID YOU DO THIS?!"

I clenched my fist together, and with a click of my tongue, I looked away from her. I tightened my jaw, looking down to the ground with my tired eyes—shadows looming below my blue eyes. "It's none of your business," I told her. How blunt could I be? She didn't say anything, just letting out a scoff, nodding at my words.

"It's none of my business…? It's none of my business, are you fucking- You're right." Slowly, she let go of me, ashamed and disappointed, her eyes looking down to the table. She wrapped her fingers together and I looked at her silently. I didn't expect her to let me go so easily and it broke me to have her actually listen to me for once when I didn't want her to. I only wanted her care.

"But… this… can't be what I think it is, right?"

I bit my lip.

"Please tell me it's not what I think it is, Elsa." She whimpered, almost… begging.

"It's not."

Her eyes were filled with hurt once she realized what it was. She nodded, letting out a harsh chuckle. But I felt empty inside… as if… I was nothing but a robot. Perhaps, just a toy. I held my fingers together, grim eyes staring down at me, perpetually.

This was the only time for a long time when I was feeling too ashamed. I couldn't speak. Even look at her in the eyes because I felt dirty inside out.

"You… You and Belle had fun?"

I didn't know what she meant, but a smaller part of me knew exactly what she was going for.

My cheeks felt flushed and I tightened my grip around my hands. My heart sank, and just by her voice, my stomach flipped.

"I know…" She shifted in her seat. "I know it's none of my business… but, is she better than me?"

And again, I felt even more disgusted with myself. But I knew, she only wanted an answer.

Looking at her, I finally separated my hands and placed my palm flat down on the surface as to surrender to her completely. My bruised wrists were exposed, attracting the teal eyes opposite of me. She was fascinated. Amused. No, perhaps, those weren't the right word to describe her current expression. She was in awe.

"Everyone is different, Anna." An answer to dodge her question...

"But have you done things—"

"Has she."

"… She done things that made you feel… how I felt? Confused? Happy? Scared? Aroused—"

"Relief and comfort is what I feel."

She nodded, smiling. I wasn't sure that was meant to make her do that. "Why are you doing that?"

Anna blinked, pointing at herself. "What? Smiling? Well…" She giggled. This was really the time to wonder if she'd really gone crazy. "I suppose… I'm smiling because you're back with someone who you love more. You feel more comfortable with her and I'm just… Well," She looked out to the streets, people walking in a rapid pace, with their bags and smartphones against their ear. The cars were honking noisily through the insane traffic. I wondered if New York was just the same—although I'd been there once, I was far from remembering any fun that I had there. It was work. She continued to stare in the distance, arms crossed as if they were protecting her from me. "I'm just… your second choice. A wrong one, to be exact. Just there. To be called upon."

You were never the wrong choice—

"I… wouldn't say that. I was happy being with you—"

"No, a nuisance. A… A replacement. Yes, that's it. I've said it when I first met you. You know, in the yacht. I'm only a replacement for whoever I used to be… and Belle. I'm only an image—a concept to you, am I right?"

I clenched my teeth together. "No…" I breathed under my hot, frustrated sigh. "I truly loved you. It may not seem like it, but everything that I've done, I've done it for you."

"But it's wrong, right? Everything that you've done… it's wrong? Seems kinda ironic, seeing how beautiful… how smart of a person you are."

That, I admitted. The guilt and shame was heavy and it weighed me down as if I was carrying the whole world over my shoulder. "What can I say to make you feel better?"

Anna shook her head and her grin widened as if she was planning something. "Not say, but… do. How about we go back to that beach house of yours again? You know, to make up for what you've done. I kinda miss the view and that bed—gosh, what is a made out of?!"

What is she thinking inside that pretty little mind of hers?

I stared at her in silence, in disbelief. "It's… silk." One minute she was screaming and the next… she was smiling? This was Anna…?

"Whaaaat…" She gaped her mouth open, but I was sure she was just faking it. But maybe, we both actually needed a little 'fake' to deal with everything. To get away from everything and be just two people… friends. "Come on! Can we go now?"

"Wait, what about Hans?"

She got up and rolled her eyes. "That man is too busy to even pay attention to me. At least, he does make it up for it when he comes back home. I guess, I'll text him and tell him I'll be with you the whole day."

"Wait… the whole day?"

"You… don't want that? We haven't seen each other in… months." She pouted, looking afraid. But who was I to say, that I wouldn't do it? Of course, I wanted to be with her. Just… it wasconsent that I needed—no, it was fear that wouldn't let me with her And I feared that if we were ever alone… anything could've happened between us. Anything intimate. Anything that we would confess to without much thinking.

I gulped and slowly got up, while she jumped up and down with excitement. "Well, do you mind getting in the car first? I'll pay the tab."

"You? When was the last time I paid?"

That didn't need any recalling. I opened my mouth once, closed it. Twice. Closed it again. "Well… graduation—"

"No, my parents did. Their money. Not mine. So right now," She quickly wrapped her arms around mine and dragged me out, hands on my back to push me out. I glared at her, playfully, "we can trade roles, got it? Great."

"Anna, you don't—"

"What?! I can't hear you! The streets are too loud!"

"You don't—"

She cupped her hands around her ear, frowning in fake concentration. "You want me to pay?! Alright, I got you."

I sighed, giving in to the stubbornness of the girl. However, I couldn't help the smile that stretched across my cheeks like an infection that wouldn't go away no matter how much I tried.

She was playing with my radio, pressing forward from station to station. Finally after what seemed like hours, she managed to get the right music and we drove through the highway—the ocean and waves swaying swiftly in the frigid air.

I took a glimpse at her, before turning back to staring forward. She was quietly humming to the song, elbows resting on the armrest. Anna seemed content. Beautiful.

"I've always thought you were beautiful."

Wait.

Anna looked at me, her sweet voice dimming down to a silent questioning hum. Still, with that lingering stare, I didn't dare to see how she reacted from my words, escaped from my thoughts.

"T-Thank you," she said, but I never expected her to thank me after everything. The silence was either awkward, or something I should be relieved about. She turned to look through the front window, cars zooming further away from us.

"I'm… I'm sorry about what has happened to us. Seeing you so happy now."—with Hans—"makes me feel the same way too." I nearly didn't believe my words when I said that. Was I truly happy, I wouldn't know—I was completely blinded, clutching to whatever warmth anyone had given me.

She smiled, breathing lightly as she looked down.

I was hesitant about wanting to take her hand in mine. But god, did I want to take her fingers between mine. Oh, how I longed for that. Right now, we looked uncertain and hesitant.

"I … know I've said I won't forgive you, but I am a very forgiving person—easily broken, even," she chortled, her laugh and voice just as fragile as her certainty. I listened, lips sealed tight. I pitied her. Us, "… but, I know you mean well." She turned, her eyes, her lips curled up to a little grin of joy… too forgiving.

Too kind!

I couldn't close my eyes, enchanted by her little ball of light, too bright for my own good.

"I've… done nothing but—"

Anna's eyebrows narrowed to a threatening frown. I wouldn't dare to say more than what I'd just did.

"No, it wasn't your fault. You protected me..."

"I pushed you" I insisted. "Not… not even a push, it was tackle—"

"But in the end, you were the one who got hurt."

"And you were the one who lost your memories and this is what we've become."

"It doesn't matter now. Not anymore." She reached for my shoulder, squeezing my tensed, flinching muscle. But I endured. I wouldn't want to crash anyway. I gritted my teeth, knuckles whiter than my skin as I tightened my hold on the steering wheel. But she loosened her grip, her fingers running in circles on me. Smiling, I was able to relax and without a hesitation, I leaned into her touch.

"Does it hurt?" she breathed. The music was quite loud, but I could only hear her.

"No," I replied. I finally had the courage, turning myself to her.

We were already near the beach, the car engine dimming down to a soft hum before it shut completely.

Our eyes continued to meet as if they couldn't stand being apart from each other. As if we longed for them to tell everything that our voices couldn't say to each other.

Her hand slowly came up to hold my cheek, her fingers warm against it as they skimmed under my hair and behind my ear. I shivered in warmth, in her hand.

"Anna…"

Her eyes glimmered through the evening, purple sky. But she looked to me even prettier than the clouds above us, swaying with the wind through the colored atmosphere.

"I—"

Click.

Before she could even say anything, I unbuckled her seatbelt. Her eyelids flutter in confusion and felt the belt sliding up her body. I grinned—hiding the fact that, I'd wanted her to continue gaping at me like I was the only person in the world. But no, we couldn't have this.

"We're here," I murmured and held her hand to pull away from me.

"O-Oh," she smile, giggling slightly. "Thanks, I didn't realize. I was just so… y-you know." She blushed, cheeks as red as a strawberry. It was sweet, really.

I nodded. "We should get out. I'll cook when we get in, you can call Hans or… take a bath, if you'd like."

Getting out, I smiled as she put her jacket on, my arms quickly wrapped around my waist. She shivered, letting out… well, a cute 'brrr' as steam covered the air as she breathed. "C-C-C-Cold…" Her teeth clattered and I couldn't help but laugh.

"Are you not cold?!"

I shook my head, amused by her shocked expression that I was only wearing a jacket, heels, and a black collar shirt. "The cold never bothers me. I'm sure I've said that many times, Anna."

She rolled her eyes as we stepped into the sandy soft ground.

The ocean waves rolled onto land quickly, and then slowly descended back to its large body. The sun was bright and orange like an egg yolk, reflecting through the violent ocean waves. We walked through the sandy, soft ground, staring at the celestial yolk in was slowly drifting down, but there were very few people still on the beach, trying as hard as they could to build a snowman, or a sand castle, with the leftover snow from days ago. It was too cold for anyone to go in for a little dip anyway.

I grinned as she hooked both her arms around mine, holding it possessively. Her nose—red and dripping—was scrunched up. She was probably biting her bottom lip to stop her teeth from grinding against each other rapidly from the frigid cold.

"You'll break my arm, eventually."

"I've broken y-y-your shoulder, I-I-I-I'll be extremely c-careful."

I chuckled gracefully.

We finally arrived to the house, snow laid atop of the building. "Be careful, watch your step."

"You know, I've been here—Whoa!"

"Hey!"

I quickly caught her, pulling her hand up towards me as she was about fall to her back against snowy ground. And I pulled her too sudden, too forward, my other arm wrapped around her waist. Our eyes quickly met, and we immediately froze from the closeness.

Our breathing was still, light steam fading in front of us as we breathe.

What's… this…?

My fingers held her waist close, slowly wrapping around her back and I pulled her close. Subconsciously. Not that I never wanted to hold her so closely, but… she wasn't mine. I promised myself to change. I was faithful and committed.

I swallowed as her eyes observed my quite surprised expression. Her hand was warm, thin fingers slightly moving from their tight grip of my hand. Slowly, her fingers slid between mine, which I spread for her. God, it was even warmer than the sunlight showering down on my front during the spring seasons.

She bit her lip and my heart skipped a beat. I stared at it and my eyes moved from hers to her chewing her (appetizing) lip. I swallowed when she did, as if she was hoping for something… needing something…

"You… need to listen sometimes," I breathed, huskily.

Anna was still staring, teal colored pupils unmoved from my unfocused eyes. "I was… just… I'm sorry," she whispered. Damn it.

Taking a deep, frigid breath of winter, I gripped on her jacket and in one smooth and sudden movement; I pulled her front against mine. She gasped slightly, cheeks flushed—possibly from the force, possibly from the cold evening wind blowing against our face.

Our nose touched. God, I wanted to have her… to kiss her… Just a few centimeters off and yet, the closest thing we could do, was stare in want—no, in love—and to hold each other in the closest way possible. Oh, but this wasn't enough.

This was never enough and we were getting greedy for more. I wanted more… I wanted her.

"Elsa…" she whispered, hooded eyes towards my lips. She tilted her head, closing in. With my hand on her back, I quickly brought it up to her jaw, fingers running through her messy hair.

"Babe…" I sighed, and the closer we got, the more I could feel her warm breath against my cheek.

"I missed you…" her lips mouthed, my blue eyes dilated in want of her tongue that made an appearance. Her lips were just right there. I could just—

"We can't do this."

We both paused. Letting out a breath, I slowly let go of her.

She looked heartbroken, confused, and anything but happy that we still felt the same way as we did months ago. Shaking my head, I reached for her copper fringes and placed it behind her ear.

"We can't do this…" I repeated with emphasis.

With a big heavy breath, she looked down to the ground. Nodding now. "Y-Yeah, you're right. Sorry…"

I nodded. "Are you alright?" She gave me a weak grin, a nod that I'd barely noticed. "I'm sorry."

"I-I know."

I couldn't stand this silence any longer, but it continued to drag longer than I'd thought.

My feet were able to drag myself to the entrance way and I opened it. "You first."

Despite the awkwardness, she could let out such cute, amused giggling as she entered, a hand on my arm and she squeezed. "Thank you."

"You should take a bath. I'll take care of your luggage," I said as we entered, jackets and hats immediately getting peeled off in the warm place. I turned the lights on and reached for her jacket. "May I?"

"Oh yeah, here. Yeah, I'm a little—" She stretched. "—jet lagged from the flight… I'll take a bath first."

"I'll come with you—"

"No, no! I know where it is," she replied, already walking towards the spiral stairs. I was still trying to get rid of the snow from both of our clothes. Quickly, I hung it up and took her hand. "Come, I just… I want to be with you. The whole time."

She blinked. "W-What?"

I paused as we walked up the stairs. "… Not that I meant, while you are…" I cleared my throat and suddenly I felt hot all over. Was this… Was I blushing? I ran my fingers around the back of my neck. "I'll fix up the bath for you." Nice dodge.

She sat on the cover of the toilet seat as I fixed her, her bath. "I'm sure you know where everything is, I'll be downstairs, if you need anything—"

Anna looked concerned, possibly ignoring what I said. "Could you… unbutton your shirt for a second?"

I tensed up, fingers twitching as she got up. She couldn't possibly be the shy, intimidated woman, I knew. We stared at each other in silence, the water running like a rushing fall in the background. "Anna—"

"No, I just… want you to show me your scars. Please?" She already had her fingers, sliding up to my chest, towards my neck. Sliding my tie out of me, I watched it get flung to the floor. She looked so desperate and so were her actions.

Fingers were placed on my collar and she was closer. I grabbed her hand quickly, eyes blanking on hers. "No, I can't…" I breathed. The water continued to run. Neither one of us cared whether it was going to overflow.

My thumb softly brushed against hers, feeling a twitch. God, I wanted to continue holding it. As if it was comfort. Warmth. I longed for it.

"Please." She pleaded. "You don't have to get naked, I just… I just want to see it. Please, don't shut me out again." Her voice quivered. "Please."

She was at the verge of tears, eyes gusting through the light and I could see the horror and disgust through her furrowed brows, grimacing at me. Perhaps, if I refused again, she'd get on her knees. Begging. I shut my eyes, trying to reel my thoughts in.

I nodded. This was as much as I could do for her. This was my chance to change. To be right.

When she let go of me, my hands were shaking as I unbuttoned my shirt one button at a time. Her face looked flushed, eyes drained from any tears and now, filled with a completely different emotion. Desire.

With my chest exposed, a black bra covering and holding my breasts up, I stared into her eyes. I nearly stopped myself, throat letting out a low rumble of a growl because god, she looked… she was feeling hot.

"D-Don't stop…" she stuttered, her fingers trying to find something to grip on that wasn't me.

I stopped halfway down my abdomen and turned my back to her. I slid the thin fabric down to my upper arms and smoothed my braid down to my unharmed shoulder. My breathing nearly stopped as she let out a gasp of fear? Discomfort? Perhaps, she pitied me?

Shutting my eyes, I let her come up to me and her fingers barely reaching down towards the blackness of my tattoo. "Snowflake," she whispered. She slowly, from her fingertips, pressed her palm smack dab on the scar. She could barely see it with the ink covering the majority of it.

My screams were silent and so were my cries.

But I endured like the strong girl people believed I once was.

"Does it hurt?" she whispered, fingers running up and down my shoulder blade. She was careful, touching every indents with featherlike touches.

I nodded and entangled my fingers with hers as it came to my collar.

"It hurts when you… reach too far?"

"Yes."

"I'm sorry…" She slowly let go of me, and immediately I covered myself up. My fingers were shaking and I felt too naked. But I couldn't show her my trembling fear.

"None of this was ever your fault," I told her, but she didn't reply when I gave her the chance. Anna knew how stubborn I was.

Turning to her, I gathered the courage to hold her hand. I squeezed it. Maybe it'd push away the weight of her heart she had and fill her with reassurance. It was what she'd always needed when we were together.

"It's alright," I grinned weakly. I hoped it was convincing enough. "The water will overflow, go take a bath and relax, please? I'll be downstairs—"

"Take it with me."

She held my hand tight and I looked down to her grip. Shaking my head, I slowly let go of her.

"No." Anna didn't look disappointed—just a blank expression on her face. Why she had her eyes looking at me like this, holding me as if she could never let me go, I didn't understand. She was always easy to read, but right now, I could hardly make out what she was thinking.

"We're not like who we used to be anymore," I bluntly stated. I felt empty from any feelings and I looked towards the ground, heading out the door. "Relax, I'll be downstairs."

I sat on the steps once I was out of her sight. My head was down and god, was I exhausted, emotionally. I felt unstable.

Putting my hands in my hair, I sighed, closing my eyes. "Why did you come back?" I whispered to myself. I wanted to see her, to be with her and have a nice conversation, but this—I never wanted this.

Never did I imagine her holding onto me with a tight grip and having her stare so intensely. To have her beg for something she thought I'd do. Anna was never this person. She was never same the person I'd miss and hug. That new person was looking at me with such a mysterious expression.

She's changed. She's stronger.

And I was weak.

Picking my head up, I'd realized she never brought her clothes back up. I grabbed her luggage with my hand and dragged it up to her room.

Laptop. Dresses. Shirts. Flannels. Ah, underwear.

I tried not to get my cheeks hot, as I brought out her lingerie, and a shirt and shorts. It was quite warm in here to be wearing long sleeves.

"Anna, I have your clothes—"

"Hans… ah… oh, baby…"

I paused my raised knuckles against the door. Moans and gasps only filled my perked ears, completely hot and red ears. My eyes widened, heart quickening and immediately sinking to the jealousy pit of my stomach. My loose fist grew tighter, but I didn't matter anymore. I shook, biting my tongue hard. Anna could do whatever she wanted, I wouldn't have the right to stop her. I could only guide—but I was never much of a guidance.

Looking down to the ground, with sadness, I dropped my arm and got to my knees. I put her clothes down, gently and silently. Her moans only grew louder—

"Elsa! Ah… I love you… Elsa… Hgnn…"

My hairs perked up on their end, knowing that it was dinner time. My eyes could only stare directly at the door, but I could hear every last moans slipping out of her lips.

"Please… Elsa… ah… Let me come… L-Let me…"

Without any hesitation, I got up and my hand was wrapped around the doorknob.

"No," I told myself, squeezing my eyes shut. "Don't do this to yourself… you know better.." My grip on the round metal, tightened. But I let go.

Quickly, I made my way down to the kitchen and turned on the sink. Handfuls of water splashed against my face, droplets dripping down from my fringes and chin. Her moans continued to fill my head even though all I could hear now was my heavy breathing and quick flows of water going down the drain.

I placed my hands on the edges, eyes meeting the reflection of me on the faucet.

This is not okay.

"Get it together…" I breathed as I straightened myself up. Dinner should start soon.

Not long after I started cooking, I felt sudden arms wrapped around me. Giggles filled my left ear.

"Mm, smells good. What are you cooking?"

I grinned, "I'd say, meatballs and spaghettis?"

"What, are you lazy or something?"

I laughed as she made a fairly disgusted, disappointed face. "They are difficult to cook, Anna."

"No they're not. Just say you're lazy, come on!" She leaned against the sink, and I looked at her up and down. Her legs were crossed, definitely well defined. She'd gotten… thinner? Thicker? No, more defined.

Crossing my arms around my chest, I rolled my eyes. "I'm not lazy."

She pouted. Adorable. Shrugging, she turned and leaned on the edge of the metal surface. She bent over, palm against her chin.

I continued cooking, my eyes adoring hers. "Thanks for bringing my clothes up," she started, softly. I tensed up, but showing no sign of any discomfort.

Giving her a nod, I said, "I didn't want you to catch a cold."

The only thing playing repeatedly in my not quite so composed head was her moans—calling my name, begging for release. The sizzling of the pan pierced through the awkward silence of the evening. And Anna's eyes were looking longingly at me when whenever my attention was focused elsewhere.

"You heard."

I paused for a second and went to fridge, taking out the pasta. "Heard what exactly?" I asked, eyes still not looking at her. It was as if looking at her would eventually turn me into a statue.

"Nothing," she sighed, rubbing her stiff temple. Did she… wanted me to hear it?

I shook my head off that filthy thought.

Dinner was filled with her talking, hands waving around wildly. And I laughed wholeheartedly. I enjoyed having her talk so freely like this, so relaxed with nothing but fun—fond memories.

"I'm so fullll…" she moaned, leaning back against her seat. I grinned proudly as I took a sip of water.

"I'm glad you enjoyed it," I replied, rolling up my sleeves as I gathered the plates to the sink.

She stared into space through the glass wall, waves rumbling into land through the dark evening sky. Snow was softly drifting down the cloudy surface and it was getting colder. We couldn't feel the harsh weather, the wind blasting against our home. We were warm in here—warm together.

"Hey…" she started. "Have you ever… found the necklace, I gave you?"

I turned the faucet on, utensils placed neatly in the sink. I didn't turn to her just yet, letting my hand glide up to my neck. "No," I said.

"Then the one you have—"

I clenched onto the jewelry for my dear life. "Jack brought it. I've told you this, I'm sure." I turned to her, leaning against the edge and she looked at me, eyes dark and void of any emotions.

"Oh."

Turning to her, I gave her my attention, fingers playing with the little stones made into a violin and bow.

"I kinda want to hear you play it again."

I chuckled softly, eyes on the ground. "I don't think you'll ever get the chance to."

She pouted, eyebrows furrowed to a frown and her cheeks puffed. "Unfortunate."

"Don't pout like that," I giggled, coming up behind her and ran my fingers through her hair. She sighed, leaning against my stomach. She held my hand, eyes slowly closing. "I'm surprised you're not admitting that you do like it when I do," she breathed and I grinned blissfully. Anna seemed relaxed, yet… she seemed so… familiar.

As if she was mine again—all mine.

My hair stood and chills ran down my pale skin.

"Hey, make up to me then."

"Make up?"

"You can't play, so make up for it with something else."

I blinked and suddenly, I knew how to make it up to her. Slowly letting go of her, I made my way upstairs.

"H-Hey, where are you going?"

I pressed my finger against my lips. "Just wait, Anna."

Moments later, I came down with a remote in my hand and a smile spread across my cheeks. She seemed curious, standing up as I rolled my sleeves up.

"What were you doing?"

I shrugged as I got in front of her, and pressed the play button on the remote. Music started blaring through the living room. Slowly, I put a hand behind my back, placing another in front of her to take. Playfully, I bowed slightly, looking at her amusingly.

"Would you like to take this dance, Princess?"

She grinned delightfully, fingers meeting mine and I pulled her in suddenly. Anna pressed a hand on my shoulder and looking down at her, god, she looked gorgeous. Our bodies pressed, as if we could not get closer enough to each other.

"I'd love to... my Queen."

I put a spell on you because you're mine

You better stop the things you do

I tell you

I ain't lyin', I ain't lyin'

She looked at me so lovingly, as our footwork matched one another. Her fingers were soft, but firm on mine. We swayed left to right, unable to get our eyes off each other because we… desired each other so much. My heart stilled, as if she was my comfort, but pounding again because I knew that look.

Her eyes were darker than her usual teal through the night sky. She was so close against my body, I could feel her soft breathing, heart beating.

You know I can't stand it

You're running around

You know better than that

I can't stand it cuz you put me down

Oh no

"Is this good enough?" I whispered, my head clouded with her touch. The corner of her lips lifted into a grin.

"More than enough…" she breathed and laid her head against my chest. The beating of my heart was soft, but loud enough that she could hear my want for her. My love for her, perhaps. My heart stopped, feeling her gentleness brushing against my fingertips.

I held her waist tightly, my skin tingling because I wanted more of her… I wanted to touch her. To love her so dearly.

"I missed you," she said. "I—"

I put a spell on you

Because you're mine

Before she could say anything else—that I wanted to hear, but it was impossible to accept—she looked at me for a second and quickly, I twirled her around, dipping her down, her right leg popping up on the air. I held her quickly, hearing her laughter erupting.

You know I love you

I love you

I love you

I love you anyhow

And I don't care if you don't want me

I'm yours right now

But we were so close, so awfully close. She had her hands around my neck, mine wrapped around her waist. And we stared, laughter dying through the deadness of the quietness.

"Elsa…" she whispered, eyes searching through for any warmth, any desire inside of me. My finger roamed down her waist, and stopped when warm skin was against mine. My heart burned for her to say three words, but ached so badly for the consequences that would follow. But consequences or not, I wanted her… I craved for her to look at me this way.

I put a spell on you

Because you're mine

She bit her lip, saliva wetting her wonderful, pulped lip. Slowly, my fingers slid up to her cheek as I pulled her upright. I wouldn't miss any part of her, cupping her cheek softly. She sighed, leaning into it.

"Mine," I murmured and she let out a whimper of want—love. I didn't care anymore, because she was here and she wanted me to have her. She took the back of my hand in hers and her lips turned to kiss my palm. Over. And over. I stared at her, blankly, like the woman I was we were nothing but a couple very much in love—fake love.I came close to her ear, flaming cheeks touching my cool ones. "All mine," I breathed.

Because you're mine

Because you're mine

Oooh yeah

"Yours."

"Good night, Anna," I smiled, running my fingers through her hair as she laid down.

"W-Wait." She grabbed my arm when I was just about to go. I turned, staring at her grip. "Sleep with me. I want you here… please?"

"Anna—"

"Just for tonight. I… I want you here."

As friends.

Anna was always stubborn and it was no use to argue. I slipped myself under the blanket next to her. Her scent was sweet and light like flowers through an open meadow. Natural and glamourous. She shifted to her side.

I ran my fingers through her hair, placing a stranded lock behind her ear. "Didn't we used to have sleepovers like this," she whispered. I chuckled. We were the only two here and she was whispering as if this whole place was filled with people.

I played along. "I don't think so."

"I think so." She yawned and shifted closer to me and I took in another breath, putting her head under my chin, hand around her back. It was fasinating and it amused me of how casual I was towards her. "I missed you…" she whispered, closing her eyes.

"As did I," I breathed. My lips met with her forehead, eyes shut in bliss and tiredness. "Good night, Anna."

"Good night, Miss Snow."

Our fingers had been tightly intertwined, never letting go, for the rest of the night.

A/N: Am I spared yet? :'0