Peering into shadows (Httyd)

Chapter 10: Surprises

Astrid's POV

The week had certainly been eventful. Especially with the new additions to our group. Heather, and Cami had explained what happened with the squad, and how Heather almost throttled some of them. 'I honestly expected Camicazi to snap first.' I can't help but think as I watch the interaction at the table. The girls actually admitted (pinky swear and all) to having gotten a bit of a crush on the boys. Heather was shooting glances at Fishlegs whenever she thought he couldn't see her, and Cami was trying to engage Tuffnut in conversation.

The addition that surprised everyone was none other than Snotlout. On Thursday he approached me in the hallway. The sincere apology that followed was not something I had expected.

----------Flash back---------

I had just finished taking out my books, and closing my locker, when I heard Snotlout calling me from behind.

"Astrid, look I know you're still mad, and probably want nothing to do with me." He states as I lift an eyebrow.

"I should hit you in the nose." I reply.

"I know, and I deserve that. But will you hear me out?" He asks.

I simply nod, and he continues.

"I had time to think, and talk with my uncle. He really made me think about what I did, and I want you to know that I'm sorry for having threatened you, I shouldn't have done that, I should have respected your wishes that you didn't want to be with me. I know you'd probably never forgive me, but I wanted to let you know that I really am very sorry for how I treated you, and I totally understand if you will never forgive me." He finishes.

"Snotlout, Thor knows I'm still mad at you, but I'm guessing from your outburst in the cafeteria that your home life isn't as stellar as you made it out to be." I tell him. "I may need some time to get over your actions, but I'll forgive you in time."

"R...Rea..Really!! Thanks Astrid, I promise I'll try to change. I hope we can be friends again when you forgive me." He tells me.

As I take a seat at our usual table during lunch, I notice that Snotlout is sitting alone. His table which was usually so crowded, and loud was now empty. Ruffnut, and Heather noticed me staring.

"Yeah, he's pretty much been abandoned." Heather says.

"All those guys who used to call themselves his friends have left, just because he got cut off from his dad's money." Ruffnut adds.

"They were all just a bunch of gold diggers if you ask me" Cami interjects.

"I actually feel sorry for him." I hear Henry say.

"I think he actually learned his lesson. Before first period he came to apologize, and I could tell he was being sincere." I tell them.

"Astrid I know that look in your eye. You really are too nice a person." Ruffnut states.

"Would you guys have a problem with it?" I ask getting negative head shakes from around the table. I then get up, and walk to Snotlout's table where he is poking his food.

"Snotlout" I say making him look up in surprise. "Why don't you join us?" I ask. He looks at me, and then at my table with skepticism. "They won't bite. Well maybe Ruffnut will." I tell him. Seeming to come to a decision he stands up with his tray, and walks with me to the table where the gang scoots over to create some space.

As he sits down he looks at us, and says "You guys really don't mind? I may have been a bit of a..."

"Bully" Fishlegs, and Henry say.