Kaida’s father called from downstairs, “Kaida, sweetie, come here!” The eight-year-old girl raced down the stairs and into his arms, her laughter bubbling as he caught her. “Dad!”
“Hello, my little Viking,” he chuckled, holding her securely. “I have someone I want you to meet.”
Kaida’s brow furrowed with apprehension. “But, I’m not good with people!”
“Don’t worry, Kaida, it’ll be alright. I have a feeling you’ll like this one.” Her father carried her out of the house, her curiosity piqued.
A haze of wonder settled over Kaida. She wondered who this person was, this person her father believed she would connect with.
They entered the Great Hall, approaching Chief Stoick.
Recognition dawned on Kaida. Her father intended to introduce her to Stoick’s son.
“Hello, Stoick,” her father greeted. Stoick turned, his gaze warm. “Aron, hello! And this must be Kaida.” He looked at her, and Kaida instinctively hid her face in her father’s clothing.
“She’s shy, but really kind,” Aron said, his voice laced with affection. “Hiccup is just like that. Say hello, Hiccup,” Stoick prompted. Kaida noticed a small boy hiding behind his father, emerald eyes wide with apprehension. His hair was brown, sprinkled with freckles.
Aron gently lowered Kaida to the floor, and Hiccup stepped forward. “H-hi,” he murmured shyly. Kaida nervously twisted the fabric of her sleeve. “Hi,” she replied quietly. Both parents chuckled and patted their children’s heads. “No need to be nervous, you two. Play nicely. We’ll be back later,” Stoick said, before stepping away with Aron.
They were left alone in the Great Hall.
An awkward silence descended.
“So…” Hiccup began, glancing at Kaida. She looked back at him, her heart fluttering. “I’m Hiccup, even though you already know that,” he added with a tentative smile.
“And I’m Kaida,” she responded, her voice barely above a whisper.
He smiled, a genuine warmth spreading across his face. “Kaida. I have a feeling we’re going to be the best of friends.”
And so they were. An unbreakable bond formed between them that day. Nothing, it seemed, could ever tear them apart.