Astrid wasn't expecting it. When she felt fingers curl around her own, there was a moment of disbelief, the feeling only furthered when she was pulled into an awkward, sideways hug. She stayed there, still and frozen in place, not wanting to move for fear that Hiccup would break away.

Thoughts didn't drive her actions then, only feelings did as she turned in his embrace to make it a proper, full frontal hug, pressing the two of them together as Astrid clung to skinny shoulders. It was silly. It was even somewhat embarrassing. But then again, what was embarrassing about seeking comfort from another? Especially someone you liked? There was no shame in that, even for a Viking.

Just because they were a hardy people didn't mean they lacked feeling or the same emotional needs as others. If anything, those needs were intensified.

Tucking her chin into the crook of his neck, Astrid simply held the embrace. Hiccup wouldn't know it, but it meant a lot. The fact he'd overcome his shyness to do such a thing - it meant everything right then and there.