Friendships: Built, Revived, and Evolved

Chapter Thirteen

"Dad! Please. Isn't it too early for 'the talk'? And I don't have a girlfriend. I just wanted to try something different today," Hiccup interrupted, trying to hide his embarrassment.

"Fine, son. If you say so. But are you sure there's nothing going on between you and that Hofferson girl? You two have been spending a lot of time together," his father probed with a sigh.

"Astrid and I are just friends. That's all. We hang out, and I tutor her in Physics," Hiccup clarified.

"Okay, enough about that. Eat your breakfast; you might be late for school," his father said, changing the subject.

Hiccup immediately took a bite and said, "Dad, these tastes awesome!"

"I am glad that you have liked it," his dad chuckled.

After finishing his meal, he brushed his teeth and bid his father farewell before heading out to the garage to drive his Black Camaro.

"I guess today you'll see the light of day without hiding," he chuckled to his car as he got inside and started driving to school.

En route to Berk High, Hiccup's phone vibrated, indicating a call from the Twins.

"Hello Ruff, Tuff," Hiccup greeted.

"It's me, your pal, Tuff. We called to let you know that you should enter the school right as Snotlout does so you can grab more attention," Tuff explained.

"Is that really necessary?" Hiccup asked, a hint of doubt in his voice.

"Yeah, it adds a dramatic flair to our plan. You know, making a grand entrance," Ruff added with enthusiasm.

"Alright, if you think it'll work. See you at school," Hiccup agreed.

As the clock struck 6:30 am, Hiccup arrived at Berk High and parked his Camaro in front of the school, relieved that most of the students were already inside and hadn't seen him yet. He made his way towards the front door, just as his phone buzzed with a message from Ruff:

'It's time, Hiccup. Snotlout just entered the school. Go show him who's the boss ;) Good luck.'

With a determined smirk, Hiccup readied himself for the next phase of Operation: Teach Snot A Lesson. Today would be a day to remember.

oOo

SHAUN

SNOTLOUT COULDN'T HELP but feel a surge of excitement as he stepped back into the familiar hallways of the school. After a long summer break, he was eager to bask in the adoration of his fans once more. He strutted in at 6:30 am, the early morning rays casting a golden glow around him. As he passed through the doorway, he immediately noticed the stir he caused among his fellow students, especially the girls.

Whispers and giggles followed in his wake, and he overheard flattering remarks being thrown his way.

"Look at him. He is so handsome."

"Ooh, what a hottie."

"Mr. Hotstuff is back."

Snotlout flashed his charming smile, relishing the attention. "Oh, thank you very much. I appreciate that you all missed me so much," he said, not one to be humble, "and I know that you want to hug and kiss me, but, you know, all of this..." He gestured towards his biceps with a playful smirk, "...is reserved for my babe."

The girls giggled even more, swooning over his confident demeanor. But as he reveled in the spotlight, a cute redhead cheerleader caught his attention by mentioning someone else.

"It's not you, Snotlout. We are talking about the hottie over there," she said, pointing to a guy with auburn hair who was surrounded by a growing crowd.

Snotlout's competitive spirit ignited. "Looks like we have some competition. Is that what you want? Game on!" he thought, his ego feeling a challenge.

Throughout the day, he couldn't help but wonder who this mysterious rival was, garnering even more attention than him. Later on, he discovered that the guy wasn't just handsome; he was also incredibly smart and quick-witted. The revelation intrigued him, but what caught him off guard was the realization that the guy was Hiccup. Hiccup! The name struck a nerve. Snotlout had always seen Hiccup as an annoyance, someone to be dismissed and looked down upon.

During break time, his irritation grew as he observed Hiccup hanging out with his friends, especially Astrid. The nerve of him, trying to compete for his friends' attention! Snotlout's jaw clenched as he vowed to assert his dominance. He was determined to show Hiccup why he should never mess with him, no matter how much his appearance had changed or how popular he had become.

In Snotlout's mind, Hiccup might have transformed physically and gained popularity, but that wouldn't alter the fact that he was just a useless runt, a mere hiccup in Snotlout's grand existence. As the rivalry between the two intensified, little did they both know that their clash of titans would lead to unexpected outcomes, challenging their perceptions of each other and themselves.

oOo

ASTRID

ASTRID'S HEART POUNDED with excitement as the meticulously crafted plan unfolded flawlessly. The sunlit courtyard provided the perfect setting as she and her close-knit group of friends spotted Harper during breaktime. With determined smiles, they beckoned him over to join their table, hiding their glee behind a facade of casual nonchalance.

In Astrid's eyes, the entire rendezvous seemed like a finely choreographed dance. As Harper settled into the seat they had reserved for him, she noticed the spark of curiosity in his eyes, and it warmed her heart. They had managed to skillfully infiltrate his world, just as they had hoped.

Their celebration was discreet, as they shared furtive glances that spoke volumes about their little triumph. Amidst discussions about trivial matters, they couldn't help but sneak in compliments to boost each other's confidence. Astrid, in particular, found herself marveling at Harper's transformation. Gone were the days when he lingered in the background, unnoticed. Now, he radiated a newfound charm that drew attention like moths to a flame.

However, amidst their elation, Astrid couldn't ignore the occasional intrusion of Harper's newfound fangirls. As much as she appreciated the sign of their success, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy gnawing at her. Yet, she reminded herself that this was merely a testament to their progress, proof that their efforts were bearing fruit.

Astrid understood that this was just the beginning of their journey. Though they had successfully paved their way into Harper's life, they were well aware that maintaining this connection would require more finesse and perseverance. The challenges ahead loomed like dark clouds on the horizon, but she was determined to face them head-on.

-HTTYD-

Originally Published: March 5, 2019
Wattpad Publishing Date: April 22, 2019
Updated: February 20, 2024