It's a shame Hiccup's hand hadn't been over her heart, because the palpitation she felt behind her chest just now...

If Astrid wasn't looking at Hiccup before his declaration, there's no doubt her gaze is locked directly on him now. A myriad of emotions flashed over her face, then it was gone. And her expression changed again; eyebrows falling and gradually furrowing as she peered critically.

A part of her searched for the lie. Searching for sarcasm, searching for the humor and the pun that always followed his smile. The worst joke he could say to her.

But this was someone who genuinely cherished everything about her. ...First to fly, first to declare love. It made sense.

Love.

Looking aside at the floor, she let it sink in a bit longer. It dawned on her the difference between Hiccup and her. Can she really be just as bold as he? She doesn't know. Especially right here and now, under the many eyes and ears that surround them. Those... those strong words will have to wait. When she is sure she is ready. Even so, she can tell him something in her own way.

Then, Astrid gingerly placed a hand over his, covering the back of his left hand, and briefly stopping his work. She kept her gaze distant, though hopefully the message would get across. A silent thanks. Thanks for not running away. Thanks for putting up with the bossiness, the angry or flirty strikes. The giant chasm she created between them years ago. And thanks for choosing her. Thanks for... always choosing her.

And drawing back her hand eventually, she scooped up her bowl with a determined, yet renewed eye.

"Hey... I think I finally have something in mind."