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Chapter Text

Dear Loki, 

 Let me start off by saying you don't know who I am. You might be thinking, "Who is this person writing to me?" Well, dear Loki, I am someone who has been observing you from afar.  You're probably trying to match a face to these words, giving the words a voice, and even smiling while thinking about who I am. Let me assure you, it’s someone you would least expect. But for now, let's keep the mystery alive.

 You're probably trying to figure out who I am in that pretty head of yours with these few written words, and that curiosity is exactly what I hoped to spark. I can almost see the gears turning in your head. Just know that when the time is right, all will be revealed. However, I assure you, I know you—perhaps even better than you know yourself.  Our paths have crossed many times, though you may not have realized it. We've shared the same spaces, breathed the same air, and perhaps even exchanged a few words in passing. 

 In fact, we might have sat next to each other in the school library or passed by each other at the park during your morning runs. You see, Loki, our lives are more intertwined than you think. Until the day we officially meet, take comfort in knowing that you are never truly alone and know that my feelings for you are genuine and unwavering.

Until next time My Beautiful Boy

Your secret Admirer 

~*~*~*~

Loki almost started laughing when he read the first sentence. “Let me start off by saying you don't know who I am. You might be thinking, "Who is this person writing to me?,” Loki chuckled softly as he read the letter out loud, savoring each word. "Who is this person writing to me?" he repeated, the corners of his mouth turning up in amusement.  It sounded so cheesy, like something out of a bad romantic movie. He couldn't help but roll his eyes. 

 His friends and boyfriend stared at him with wide eyes, stifling their laughter.  They found the entire situation hilarious, like a scene pulled straight from a cliché rom-com. "Who even writes letters like this anymore?" one of his friends quipped, barely containing his laughter. Even his boyfriend couldn't resist a smirk, shaking his head in disbelief.

 Tony, Loki's boyfriend, couldn't resist any longer and grabbed the letter out of his hands. "Alright, let me see this masterpiece of modern romance," he said, his eyes scanning the text quickly. "Wow, this is something else," he added with an exaggerated sigh, causing everyone to burst into laughter.

“ You're probably trying to figure out who I am in that pretty head of yours with these few written words, and that curiosity is exactly what I hoped to spark.”  Barton laughed, holding his stomach as Tony read on. "This is gold! I haven't seen anything this corny since those old soap operas my mom used to watch," he said, wiping a tear from his eye.  Natasha  slapped Barton's arm playfully. "Can you shut up and let Stark read?" she scolded, though she couldn't hide her own grin. "Careful, Stark, they might steal your boyfriend," Natasha teased, her eyes twinkling with mischief. Tony rolled his eyes, but couldn't help the small smile that tugged at his lips. "Yeah, right," he retorted, "like anyone could compete with my charm." He leaned over and kissed Loki, making Barton gag dramatically. "Oh, come on, get a room, you two!" Barton exclaimed, pretending to be disgusted. Everyone burst into laughter again, the room filled with the sound of their camaraderie.

"Come on, continue to read the letter," Natasha said, nudging Tony with her elbow. He cleared his throat dramatically, holding the letter up like a royal decree. "Alright, where was I? Ah yes—“I can almost see the gears turning in your head. Just know that when the time is right, all will be revealed. However, I assure you, I know you—perhaps even better than you know yourself. ”

 Loki looked at his friends, raising his eyebrows in a silent question. They shrugged, just as confused as he was, their expressions a mix of bewilderment and amusement.  There was nothing special about him, or so he thought. He had just barely gotten out of high school and was working with his brother at their family restaurant while going to college.  On his days off, he hung out with his friends and went out with his boyfriend, enjoying simple pleasures like movie nights and trips to the local arcade. His life was as ordinary as it got, leaving him even more puzzled by the mysterious letter. "Who could possibly know me so well?" he mused aloud, glancing at Tony for any clues.

Tony sighed, his expression turning a bit more serious. "Honestly, Loki, I have no idea," he admitted, shaking his head. "Whoever wrote this clearly put a lot of thought into it, and it's not just a joke." Banner, who had been sitting quietly, finally spoke up. "It's probably someone who doesn't have much of a life," he suggested, causing a ripple of laughter to spread through the group. "But seriously, Loki, it sounds like someone who knows you pretty well and wants to get inside your head." Tony rolled his eyes, a smirk playing on his lips. "No one gets inside my boyfriend's head but me," he declared, earning a chorus of playful groans and exaggerated eye rolls from his friends. 

 Loki rolled his eyes again. "This is so stupid," he said, taking the letter from Tony's hand and skimming over the rest of it. "If this is someone's idea of a prank, they're going to be sorely disappointed by how boring my life actually is."  As he read through the letter, his eyes widened, and a faint blush crept up his cheeks. The words "beautiful boy" stood out, causing his friends to stare at him in curiosity, waiting for him to say something . "Well, this just got even weirder," Loki mumbled, feeling a mix of embarrassment and intrigue.

"What else does it say, Loki?" Nat asked, trying to peek at the letter.  Loki quickly folded the letter and shook his head. "Nothing important, just more of this lovey-dovey nonsense," he muttered, trying to hide his embarrassment. "I don't even know who this person is; they're just wasting their time with this."

 He could tell they weren't satisfied with his answer, but no one pressed further, understanding that maybe the letter contained something Loki wanted to keep to himself.  Despite his dismissive words, the phrase "beautiful boy" kept replaying in his mind, making his heart pound and his stomach fill with butterflies. He tried to shake off the feeling, but it lingered, making him wonder who could see him in such a light. The idea that someone could know him so well seemed absurd, almost laughable.

 The black-haired glanced at his friend Barton, wondering if maybe it was him who wrote the letter. Barton had a crush on him for as long as he could remember, though he never openly admitted it.  The thought made his heart race, but he doubted Barton would waste his time writing a cheesy, stupid letter. Besides, Barton wasn't dumb enough to confess to him, especially since he was with Tony and Tony would kill him if he ever tried something like that. No, Loki had an admirer. 

A secret admirer. 

"Sorry we're late, the professor didn't let us leave until we were done,"  Steve said as he and Bucky walked into the room. They both paused, sensing the tension in the air and noticing the letter clutched tightly in Loki's hand. Bucky raised an eyebrow, exchanging a curious glance with Steve before asking, "What's going on here?"

 Barton and Tony exchanged amused glances before bursting into laughter. "Oh, just Loki receiving some love letters," Barton teased, causing Loki to glare at him.  Bucky chuckled, shaking his head. "Looks like you're quite the heartthrob, Loki," he said, his tone teasing but friendly. Steve smirked, adding, "Well, whoever it is, they've got good taste." Bucky slapped Stark on the back playfully. "Looks like you have some competition, Stark," he said with a wink. Tony rolled his eyes but couldn't help the smirk that formed on his face. Banner laughed heartily from the corner of the room, where he had been quietly observing the exchange. "I guess we'll have to keep an eye out for more secret admirers," he joked, causing everyone to chuckle. Loki's cheeks flushed a deeper red, and he couldn't help but groan inwardly at the playful teasing.

 Loki looked around the room as his friends laughed, a small smile forming on his lips. Despite the embarrassment, he couldn't deny the warmth spreading through him from their camaraderie.   Loki couldn't help but laugh when he heard Tony say, "It's so embarrassing—who writes letters like that in this day and age?" "Apparently, someone who appreciates the old-fashioned way," Loki retorted with a grin. Everyone's laughter grew louder, and for a moment, the tension in the room seemed to dissipate entirely.

"How are you not embarrassed?" Bucky asked, raising an eyebrow at Loki. “Honestly, I'm more embarrassed by how unoriginal and cheesy the letter is," Loki admitted, a small chuckle escaping him. Tony snorted, "See? Even Loki can't handle that level of cringe," which only made everyone laugh harder."Enough of this, we should go home," Natasha said, laughing as she gathered her stuff. Everyone groaned in mock disappointment but started to gather their things as well.  As they headed for the door, Loki subtly laced his fingers with Tony's, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. Tony smiled warmly, leaning in to plant a soft kiss on Loki's cheek. "Let them tease," Tony whispered, "as long as I have you, it's all worth it."

Loki nodded, forgetting the letter entirely as he focused on Tony's warm touch. The two of them walked out together, the playful banter of their friends fading into the background. In that moment, nothing else mattered but the comforting presence beside him.

 Unknown to Tony and Loki, a figure watched them from the shadows with jealousy burning in their eyes. Clenching their fists, the figure whispered, "Enjoy it while it lasts." As the couple disappeared into the night, the watcher stepped back into the darkness, planning their next move.

Chapter Text

Loki, 

 You have a really beautiful name, Loki. I'm saying it aloud as I write this letter. I wonder, did your real mother name you this, or did your adopted mother choose it? Either way, they both have excellent taste.  I just wish you could hear me say your name the way it rolls off my tongue, like a melody that lingers in the air. It's more than just a collection of letters; it's a symphony that resonates with my soul. Maybe one day, you'll understand the depth of emotion each time I say "Loki."

Does Stark say your name the way I say it? Maybe not. To him, it's probably just another name, but to me, it's an echo of everything you mean to me. When I pleasure myself, I say your name like a prayer, a sacred mantra that fills the silence with longing. Each syllable is a testament to the passion and desire I feel for you. Your name, Loki, becomes a bridge between my reality and the fantasies that consume me. 

 I hope that one day I can hold you in my arms, my lips brushing against your neck, marking you as mine, whispering your name like a broken mantra because that's how it's supposed to be forever. In those moments, everything else fades away, and it's just you and me, bound by the threads of destiny. Until then, I will continue to cherish the sound of your name, keeping it close to my heart.

 But don't worry, my beautiful boy, that day will come. The only thing you'll want to hear me say is "Loki." Until then, know that my love for you transcends time and space, waiting patiently for the moment we can finally be together.

Your Secret Admire 

~*~*~*~

Loki thought that the first letter was a fluke, nothing more than a prank played on him by his friends. He had laughed it off, tossing it aside without a second thought.  Even his brother had laughed about it when he showed it to him, dismissing it as a harmless joke. 

 Then the next thing he knew, there was another letter under his door, his name printed on the envelope with elegant writing. This time, curiosity got the better of him, and he couldn't help but open it. He felt unease at the thought of someone coming into his house and leaving it there. The idea of an unseen admirer creeping into his personal space sent shivers down his spine. He decided to open the letter anyway and read it. 

“ You have a really beautiful name, Loki,” Loki couldn't help but ponder the significance of his name as he read the letter. It had always been just a name to him, a label he wore like any other. But now, seeing it described with such reverence and passion, he began to wonder if there was more to it than he had ever realized.  His name had never held any special meaning to him, except when it came from the lips of his mother, Thor, and Tony. They were the only ones who could say "Loki" and make it sound like more than just a name. 

“ I'm saying it aloud as I write this letter. I wonder, did your real mother name you this, or did your adopted mother choose it?”  Loki raised an eyebrow as he pictured who the letter could have come from; no one knew about his adoption except his friends and boyfriend. The revelation that the writer was privy to such intimate details of his life made him feel exposed and vulnerable. He couldn't shake the feeling that this mysterious admirer was someone closer to him than he had initially thought.

 The image of his stupid friend Barton popped into his head, and he couldn't help but smirk. It would be just like Barton to pull something like this, weaving an elaborate prank to get under his skin. However, the delicate handwriting and intimate knowledge suggested otherwise, leaving Loki more perplexed than ever.

“Either way, they both have excellent taste.  I just wish you could hear me say your name the way it rolls off my tongue, like a melody that lingers in the air.”   Loki's smirk faded as he read the last sentence. Barton was many things, but poetic wasn't one of them. The romantic and almost lyrical tone of the letter was far removed from Barton's usual straightforward and brash demeanor, leaving Loki to wonder who else it could be. 

The black-haired sighed, setting the letter down on the counter as he prepared his stuff for his morning run. It was ridiculous and stupid, he thought. How could someone be genuinely interested in him, especially to the point of sneaking into his home to leave such a heartfelt letter?

 Loki rolled his eyes as he walked over to the fridge, opening it up to grab a bottle of water. He muttered under his breath, "This better not be some elaborate joke." The cold air from the fridge did little to cool the confusion and curiosity swirling in his mind.

If it wasn't Barton, who could it be? He was almost certain it couldn't be Bucky or Banner and definitely not Steve. Each of them had their own distinct styles, none of which matched the romantic prose in the letter.  Besides, they wouldn't waste their time writing a stupid letter. They had better things to do, like training seasons and projects, not playing mind games. As he closed the fridge door, Loki couldn't help but wonder if there was someone he had overlooked, someone who saw him in a way no one else did.

 Going back to the table, he picked up the letter again, scrutinizing the elegant script more closely. He traced the lines with his finger, hoping a familiar curve or flourish would jog his memory. "Come on, think," he muttered, trying to piece together the mystery as if the answer was hidden in the delicate loops and swirls of the handwriting.  But no one came to mind; everyone had different handwriting, especially Barton, who wrote like a chicken scratching at the dirt. 

“When I pleasure myself, I say your name like a prayer, a sacred mantra that fills the silence with longing,”  Loki groaned in annoyance, feeling uncomfortable. The thoughtof someone calling his name while pleasuring themselves made him grimace. "Who the fuck is this guy?" he muttered, shaking his head. This mysterious admirer was trying too hard.

 Whoever it was, they didn't need to use these stupid sentences to earn his attention. All the guy had to do was just go up to him and say, "Hey, I like you," and that would have been enough. 

“Until then, I will continue to cherish the sound of your name, keeping it close to my heart.  But don't worry, my beautiful boy, that day will come. The only thing you'll want to hear me say is "Loki."   Loki rolled his eyes, tossing the letter in the trash with a dismissive flick of his wrist. "Honestly, who writes crap like this?" he muttered, turning away from the discarded note. He had more important things to focus on than playing detective with some overly dramatic admirer.

 He sighed, wondering if perhaps he should play along with this mysterious admirer, if only to uncover their identity. Besides, he knew Tony would love the opportunity to have some fun with this little game. 

"You're ready," he heard his brother say, coming down the stairs in his jogging clothes. Thor always joined him on his daily run since Tony was too lazy to get up and joined him. Loki gave a nod, pushing the mysterious letter out of his mind for now as he focused on the routine ahead.

Chapter Text

Loki, 

I saw you today, my beautiful boy. You were with your boyfriend, Tony Stark. I watched you both from the shadows, seething with jealousy wondering how someone as beautiful and intelligent as you could be with such an arrogant and self-centered man. What do you see in him that I can't give you? Every moment I watched felt like a dagger to my heart. 

You're so beautiful, like the moon, more than my mind can even comprehend. Your radiance outshines the stars and leaves me in awe. How can he possibly appreciate the depths of your beauty and intellect the way I do?  Did you know your beautiful green eyes sparkle in the sunlight like diamonds, or that your cheeks turn the darkest hue of red when you're flustered?   And your smile, Loki—oh, how it lights up the room and brings warmth to the coldest of hearts. Every time you smile, it's as if the world pauses to admire your radiance. How I long to be the reason behind that smile, to see it directed at me with the same affection you show him.

 I'm the only one who notices these details—Stark doesn't see them the way I do. I don’t like him and trust him. He looks at you like you're some kind of toy to be played with. His gaze has this possessive, almost predatory glint that makes my blood boil, and it only fuels my desire to show you how much more you deserve.  Be careful, my love, for the fire may look beautiful, but it is still dangerous. My passion for you burns brightly, but it can also consume everything in its path. I fear that my love, though deep and sincere, might lead us both to ruin if not handled with care. Stark doesn’t understand the true essence of your soul. He may shower you with gifts and grand gestures, but he misses the subtleties that make you who you are. He doesn't see the quiet strength in your eyes or the way you find joy in the simplest things, and that is where he falls short.

Please, Loki, be careful with him. He might dazzle you with his charm and wealth, but his true nature could bring you heartache. Remember, a love built on genuine understanding and respect is far more valuable than one founded on superficial allure.

Your secret Admirer 

~*~*~*~

Hela, Loki's sister, sighed as she read the letter again. "He's watching you like a fucking dog," she muttered under her breath, crumpling the letter in frustration. "You need to be careful, Loki; not all admirers have pure intentions."

She chuckled softly, shaking her head. "It looks like he doesn't like Stark one bit," she mused, a wry smile spreading across her face. "But then again, who can blame him? because I'm not a fan of Stark either. His arrogance and flashy bravado always rubbed me the wrong way. He’s also very cunning for his own good. I always wonder what you see in him,” She says, putting out her cigarette with a resigned sigh. "What could possibly draw you to someone so manipulative and self-serving?"

Loki rolled his eyes at his sister's comment. "Hela, this is fucking serious," he growled, snatching the crumpled letter from her hands. "I don't need your sarcasm right now; I need to figure out who wrote this and what their true intentions are." His eyes narrowed as he scanned the words again. “ Did you know your beautiful green eyes sparkle in the sunlight like diamonds, or that your cheeks turn the darkest hue of red when you're flustered? ”  He reread that part for the millionth time that day, his fingers tracing the ink on the page. "Whoever this is, they know me well," he murmured, lost in thought.

Stark doesn't see them the way I do.

Loki frowned, the weight of the words sinking in. Did Tony really not see him the way he had hoped? The thought gnawed at him, creating a tumultuous mix of doubt and longing in his heart. But he shakes his head, refusing to let the doubt consume him. 

"Like I said before, maybe this guy is not so bad," Loki glared at her, annoyance clear in his eyes. "He's not doing anything wrong," Loki argued, his voice firm. "In fact, it feels like this person understands me better than anyone else ever has. Maybe, just maybe, they see something in me that Stark never bothered to look for."

 Hela raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Understanding you better than anyone else? That sounds like a convenient excuse for someone who might be trying to manipulate you," she retorted sharply. "Don't let your guard down, Loki; admiration can easily turn into obsession.”

 Loki sighed, the weight of Hela's words pressing down on him. "I know the difference between admiration and obsession," he said softly, though a hint of uncertainty lingered in his voice.  Loki looked back at the letter, conflicted about how to feel about this secret admirer. Part of him was scared; after all, this person was watching his every move with his friends and boyfriend. They even knew Tony and his family, which made the whole situation even more unsettling.

 Hela's eyes softened as she looked at her brother. "Loki, you have to consider the possibility that this person might have ulterior motives. What if it's someone from our past, someone who holds a grudge or wants to manipulate you for their own gain?" The thought lingered in the air, casting a shadow over Loki's momentary hope.

For the first time Loki thought hard. Who is this guy and what is his true intention?

Loki dismissed her concerns with a wave of his hand. "But he called me a beautiful boy," Loki said, touching the words with a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Maybe he's not so bad after all."   Still, he knew deep down that he should heed Thor's warnings and see the letters as red flags. Ignoring them might be the wisest course of action. That was the best thing to do.  

Hela sighed and rolled her eyes, clearly frustrated but choosing not to press the matter further. She knew her brother well enough to understand that once he set his mind on something, it was nearly impossible to sway him. Instead, she decided to keep a close watch, ready to step in if things took a darker turn.

 Hela sighed again as she lit up another cigarette, the smoke curling around her like a protective shield. "Okay, since you're interested in this guy, why don't you write him back?" she suggested, exhaling a puff of smoke. "Get some answers and see if this person truly has good intentions or if they're just playing with your emotions."

 Loki raised an eyebrow. "How? I don't have a name or an address for him," he said, putting the letter on the bed, sighing as he started to run his hand on his cat, Miss Cupcake. Hela hummed thoughtfully, tapping her cigarette against the ashtray. She watched Miss Cupcake, who purred contentedly under Loki's touch. 

Hela chuckled, shaking her head. "I still can't believe Stark gave you that cat," she said, her voice filled with a mix of amusement and disbelief. "Who would have thought he'd have such a soft spot for animals?"

 Loki smiled, scratching Miss Cupcake behind the ears. Loki was silent for a moment, then he glanced at Hela. "But either way, you still hate him," Loki pointed out, his tone neutral. Hela shrugged, her expression hardening. "Some things never change, brother," she replied, her eyes narrowing slightly.

 She didn't say anything else as she continued to think, her eyes drifting back to the letter on the bed. Loki could almost see the wheels turning in her mind. Finally, she sighed, a cloud of smoke escaping her red lips."Why don't you leave a reply where he leaves his letters? if he's truly sincere, he'll respond."  Hela suggested, her voice steady. 

 Loki wondered if leaving a reply where the letters had been found would even work, or if it was merely a shot in the dark. He could also leave the letters in the mailbox, but that assumed the admirer personally delivered them, which might not be the case.  

As Loki  continued to ponder, a chilling realization hit him. How did this admirer know his address and manage to break into his house a few days ago? The more he thought about it, the more uneasy he became, questioning the true extent of this person's knowledge and intentions.  But he shook his head, dismissing the unsettling thoughts as mere paranoia. Maybe it was just a harmless admirer who had somehow stumbled upon his address. He glanced at Hela, considering for a moment whether to tell her about the break-in, but decided against it. He didn't want to worry her unnecessarily, especially when they had so little information. 

 Hela's voice broke through his thoughts. "How about we talk about this mistrust from Stark?" Hela said, leaning against the headboard as she grabbed the letter. "This guy clearly doesn't like him and doesn't trust him. At least this admirer has something in common with me," she added, scanning the letter with a frown. "It's more than just admiration; there's something off about this whole situation." Loki nodded slowly, the uneasy feeling in his gut growing stronger.

 Loki grabbed the letter, ripping it into pieces before throwing it in the trash. "Tony is not a bad guy, Hela," he said firmly. "He loves me, and I love him. you always say you don't like him, but you always smile when he gives  you flowers," Loki pointed out . Hela rolled her eyes. "I do that out of politeness. Mother taught us that no matter how much we hate a person, we have to show gratitude," she retorted sharply. “Even Mother smiles when she receives flowers from him, and she doesn't like him," Hela said. Loki sighed, knowing she had a point.”

"Loki cleared his throat, trying to steer the conversation back on track. 'We're getting off-topic,' he said, his tone firm. He took a deep breath before continuing, "I believe this letter is just trying to come between us, to create doubt and mistrust. And this guy probably has beef with the Starks, and I don't know what it is," Loki huffed as he reached for his forgotten orange juice and took a sip. "But whoever it is, they're not going to ruin what Tony and I have." Hela nodded, though a shadow of concern lingered in her eyes.

 Hela shuffled on the bed, her expression thoughtful. "Does Mother and Father know about these letters?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry. Loki shook his head, setting his drink down. "Only Thor and you know about them," he said as he went back to petting Miss Cupcake, his loyal cat who had been watching the exchange with curious eyes. "I don't want to worry them unnecessarily." Hela sighed, but she understood his reasoning, her fingers tracing the edge of the bedspread thoughtfully.

"As long as Thor knows, I suppose that's good enough for now," Hela conceded. "But if things get out of hand, you have to promise me you'll tell them." Loki nodded, appreciating her concern as Miss Cupcake purred contentedly under his hand.

Hela stood up, grabbing her jacket and shrugging it on. "I should get going, my shift starts in an hour. Mother will be working late at the hospital and Father is closing the restaurant today, so they won't be home until late tonight," she said, glancing at the clock. "So, you'll be on your own for a bit," she added, her eyes flicking back to Loki. "And don't forget, Thor is staying at Fandral's house today. If anything happens, just call me, alright? Hela paused, grabbing her bag. "I still don't know what time I'll be home, but I'll keep my phone on me,"  Loki gave her a reassuring smile. "I will, don't worry," he promised. 

Hela reached out and petted Miss Cupcake, who hissed in response. Unfazed, Hela made a playful hissing sound back at the cat, causing Miss Cupcake to meow indignantly. "Alright, I'll see you later," she said with a grin, heading towards the door, closing it with a soft click behind her. Loki listened to the fading sound of her footsteps and then turned his attention back to Miss Cupcake. "Looks like it's just you and me for a while," he murmured, gently scratching behind her ears as he sighed, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. The room felt eerily quiet after Hela's departure, and his mind raced with thoughts of the unknown admirer. “ Be careful, my love, for the fire may look beautiful, but it is still dangerous. My passion for you burns brightly, but it can also consume everything in its path.”  Loki couldn't shake the words from his mind; they echoed ominously, making him question the true intentions behind the letter. He glanced at the torn pieces in the trash, wondering if he had made a mistake by dismissing it so quickly. Miss Cupcake meowed softly, snapping him out of his thoughts, but the unease in his heart remained.

 Loki tried to reassure himself, thinking he might just be reading too much into the situation. After all, a secret admirer couldn't possibly know anything that would truly endanger him, right? Still, a nagging doubt lingered in the back of his mind, refusing to be silenced.

Chapter Text

It had been weeks since Loki received a letter from his secret admirer.  In all honesty, he felt better knowing that he wasn't going to receive any more letters.  It scared him knowing that someone was watching him; it made his skin crawl. The thought of an unknown pair of eyes following his every move was unnerving, and he couldn't shake the feeling of being constantly observed. All he hoped, deep down, was that they had lost interest in him. The silence that followed brought him a sense of relief, allowing him to sleep more peacefully at night. However, a part of him still remained on edge, wary of the possibility that the admirer might return.

~*~*~*~

 Another week passed without the letters, and Loki sighed in relief. The absence of communication felt like a heavy weight had been lifted off his shoulders. He began to believe that perhaps his secret admirer had finally moved on. All he wanted was to be left alone, to live his life without the shadow of someone's obsession looming over him. He cherished the newfound tranquility and hoped that it would last. 

For the first time in weeks, Loki felt like he could reclaim his sense of normalcy and privacy. But Thor, on the other hand, didn't trust this sudden silence and decided to take extra precautions. He brought home a large, loyal dog to keep Loki and the house safe, hoping the presence of the animal would deter any potential threats. Loki appreciated his brother's concern, though he couldn't help but feel a bit embarrassed by the added security.

Thor lied to their mother, saying that the dog had been a gift from an old friend. He didn't want her to worry about the true reason behind the new addition to their home. Loki, though skeptical at first, found comfort in the dog's presence, appreciating the added layer of security.

 All he hoped was that the fucker stayed away from him for good. He couldn't bear the thought of returning to those sleepless nights filled with anxiety and fear. With the loyal dog by his side, Loki felt a newfound sense of safety, praying that this peace wasn't just a fleeting illusion.

~*~*~*~

 Loki let out a satisfied sigh as he sank down on Tony’s shaft, his hand on Tony’s stomach to balance himself. He could feel Tony's stomach flexing beneath his palm, the tension adding to his own arousal. Moving with deliberate slowness, he savored the sensation, each movement drawing a low groan from Tony. Tony's hand landed on Loki's right hip, gripping it firmly. Loki moaned when he felt his muscles clenching tighter, which led Tony to groan again. Loki chuckled as he leaned down to kiss Tony, his breath warm against his lips. Tony responded eagerly, pulling Loki closer as their lips met. The room seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them lost in the moment.

Tony's hand slid down from Loki's hip, gripping his butt cheek firmly. Loki gasped, the intensity of Tony's touch sending a shiver through him. "You're so fucking hot," Tony whispered against Loki's lips, his voice husky with desire. Loki smirked, his eyes darkened with lust as he deepened the kiss. Without saying anything, Loki slowly rose up, bracing himself against Tony's chest and with a swift, deliberate motion, he slammed back down, causing both of them to moan in unison. But he didn’t want to go fast. Instead Loki set a lazy rhythm, moving in a slow, tantalizing dance that drove Tony wild. Each motion was deliberate and teasing, drawing out the pleasure for both of them. "God, Loki," Tony rasped, his fingers digging into Loki's hips, urging him on.

 Loki shifted his head to the right when he felt Tony's teeth graze his neck, sending shivers down his spine. "Like that?" Tony murmured, his voice filled with a mix of amusement and desire. Loki simply nodded, his breath hitching as Tony continued to nip and kiss along his skin. Loki's eyes fluttered shut, savoring the sensation. "Yes," he breathed, his voice barely a whisper. The gentle bites and kisses were exactly what he craved, each one igniting a fire within him that only Tony could quench. He arched his back when he felt Tony's tongue on his nipples, a sudden jolt of pleasure shooting through him. "Oh, Tony," Loki gasped, his hands gripping Tony's shoulders for support. The sensation was overwhelming, making his movements more erratic as he tried to maintain their slow, tantalizing pace.

 Tony paused for a moment, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. Loki frowned when he felt Tony stop, confusion and frustration flashing in his eyes. "Why'd you stop?" he panted, his voice laced with need. Tony's grin only widened as he leaned in close, whispering, “You know, if I could rearrange the periodic table, I'd put U and I together," he quipped, earning a breathless laugh from Loki. "Nerd," Loki teased back, rolling his eyes, before capturing Tony's lips again in a searing kiss.

 Loki moans when a particular push downward causes Tony to hit his sweet spot, making him see stars. "Oh, God, Tony," Loki breathed out, his voice trembling with intensity. Tony smirked, noticing the reaction, and adjusted his angle to hit that spot again, driving Loki wild with each precise thrust. Loki inhaled and exhaled, his hands tightening on Tony's shoulders. "Slow down, Tony," he pleaded, his voice shaky and breathless. "I don't want to come yet." Tony chuckled softly, his breath warm against Loki's ear. "Oh, but I love seeing you like this," he teased, slowing his movements just enough to keep Loki on the edge. Loki groaned in frustration and pleasure, his body trembling with need. Loki smacked Tony's arm playfully, a frustrated pout forming on his lips. "You're impossible," he muttered, though the twinkle in his eyes betrayed his amusement. Tony laughed. 

He shivered when Tony ran his finger along the intricate tattoo on his side, the sensation sending a new wave of electricity through him. "Sensitive here, are we?" Tony murmured, his touch feather-light yet tantalizing. Loki bit his lip, nodding as he tried to steady his breathing, the added stimulation making it even harder to hold back. The tattoo, a snake intertwined with roses, seemed to come alive under Tony's touch, each stroke heightening Loki's arousal. "It's beautiful," Tony whispered, tracing the delicate lines with reverence, "just like you." Loki's heart swelled at Tony's words, the compliment making him feel cherished in a way he hadn't in eons. "You always know what to say," he murmured, his voice tinged with both gratitude and desire. As Tony's fingers continued to explore the tattoo, Loki felt a deep sense of connection, as if Tony was not just touching his skin but his very soul."You should get another tattoo," Tony says, taking Loki's wrist and kissing it where he had his parents' and siblings' names initials ink "Maybe something that symbolizes our bond, so you'll always have a piece of me with you." Loki smiled, liking the idea. "What do you have in mind?" he asked softly, his eyes meeting Tony's with a spark of curiosity and affection. Tony hummed, his eyes shifting to the ceiling as he thought. "How about an infinity symbol intertwined with a heart?" he suggested, grinning as he looked back at Loki. "It's simple, Tony repeated back with a smile,"I love it," Loki whispered, leaning in to kiss Tony tenderly. "Let's do it."

 "Let's do it." Tony repeated back, cupping Loki's face gently, their foreheads touching as they shared a moment of mutual understanding and commitment.  Loki smiles as he leans forward to lay on top of Tony, feeling Tony still inside him. He suppressed the urge to come when Tony's movements hit his sweet spot once more, sending another wave of intense pleasure through him. "Just a little longer," Loki whispered, his breath warm against Tony's neck. Tony hummed in response, the vibration adding yet another layer of sensation that made Loki's body quiver. "Take your time," Tony whispered, his voice soothing and full of promise. "We've got all night." Loki's fingers began to trace the outline of Tony's chest tattoo, an intricate depiction of an arc reactor with veins spreading out like rays of light.  Out of all the tattoos Tony had, this one was his favorite. 

"You never told me what this tattoo means," Loki asked softly, his curiosity piqued as he traced the design.  Tony hummed softly. "I saw it on the internet and liked the design, so I got it," he admitted with a small smile. Loki chuckled, finding the simplicity endearing, and continued to trace the veins lines. "Well, it suits you," Loki whispered, his fingers lingering on the tattoo as if trying to memorize every detail. Tony smiled, pulling Loki closer. "And yours suits you perfectly," he replied, their eyes locking in a moment that felt timeless and profound.

 He  closed his eyes as he started to ride Tony a little faster, the room filling with the sound of their breath and the creak of the bed. Good thing no one was home, allowing them to lose themselves in the moment without restraint.  Tony suddenly shifted, flipping them both so that Loki was pressed firmly against the mattress. Loki gasped at the change in position, his body responding with eager anticipation. Tony's hands roamed possessively over Loki's hips as he began to move with renewed intensity, each thrust sending ripples of pleasure through them both. Tony laced his hand with Loki's, their fingers intertwining tightly as if anchoring them to each other. The connection felt electric, grounding them even as they were lost in the waves of ecstasy. "You're mine," Tony whispered, his voice a mix of possessiveness and adoration, making Loki's heart race even faster. Loki's ass rose up, inviting Tony to grasp it firmly. Tony's fingers dug into the flesh, knowing there would be a bruise tomorrow but neither of them cared.  Tony threw his head back, a guttural groan escaping his lips as his hand tightened around Loki's. With one final, powerful thrust, he spilled his seed deep inside Loki.  Loki's body clenched around Tony, milking every last drop of his release. Moments later, Loki's own climax overtook him, his body stuttering and trembling with intensity. Tony leaned forward, pressing soft, tender kisses along Loki's neck and shoulder, their breaths still heavy and mingling in the aftermath. "You were incredible," Tony murmured, his voice filled with genuine admiration and affection. Loki smiled. They collapsed together, breathless and sated, wrapped in the warmth of their shared intimacy. 

 Tony sighed, pushing himself against the headboard as he wrapped his arm around Loki, who snuggled closer into his embrace. His other hand reached out for the box of cigarettes on the nightstand, but he frowned when he didn't feel the lighter. "Where did it go?" he muttered, glancing around the room in mild frustration. Loki chuckled, his breath warm against Tony's neck. "I can't believe you're frustrated over a lighter,"  Tony laughed, shaking his head. "I guess old habits die hard," he admitted, pulling Loki even closer.  Loki sighed, remembering that his sister had left her lighter in his room. "Actually, I think my sister left one here," he murmured.  Pulling away from Tony's embrace, Loki got up and walked over to his drawer. Tony watched him with a smirk, appreciating the view of Loki's lithe form in the dim light.  As Loki bent down to open the drawer, Tony's eyes were drawn to the sight of his seed slowly trickling down Loki's inner thigh. The sight made Tony's smirk widen, a sense of satisfaction washing over him. Loki found the lighter and turned back, catching Tony's gaze and raising an eyebrow with a knowing smile. "Found it," he said, holding up the lighter triumphantly. He walked over to the bed and crawled on top of Tony, straddling his lap. Loki could feel Tony's arousal stirring once more, pressing insistently against him, but he pretended to ignore it, "You really can't go a moment without this, can you?" Loki teased, handing over the lighter. Tony chuckled, his hands gliding up Loki's sides, savoring the moment of closeness. Tony played with the cigarette between his lips, waiting for Loki to light it up.

 Loki took his time, enjoying the power he held in that moment, he finally flicked the lighter and brought the flame to Tony's cigarette. As the end of the cigarette glowed, Loki plucked the cigarette out of Tony's lips before he could take a drag and brought it to his own lips instead. Taking a slow, deliberate inhale of smoke Loki leaned in close, his eyes never leaving Tony's. He exhaled softly, passing the smoke through a kiss, their lips brushing as the smoky tendrils mingled between them. Tony's hands tightened on Loki's waist, pulling him even closer, savoring the intimate exchange. Loki chuckled as he handed the cigarette back to Tony, his eyes glinting mischievously. "Patience, Stark," he murmured, brushing a strand of hair away from Tony's face. Tony took the cigarette, their fingers grazing, and took a slow drag, his gaze never leaving Loki's. Tony loved moments like these, cherishing the closeness they shared. "I love you," Loki whispered softly, a smile playing on his lips as he kissed Tony's cheek. "I love you too," Tony murmured against his ear, their hearts beating in perfect harmony. 

Loki stood up, walking to the bathroom to take a shower. He looked back over his shoulder and smirked, "You're coming with me." Tony chuckled. He placed the cigarette in the ashtray, extinguishing it with a quick twist. "Lead the way," Tony said, getting up from the bed and following Loki into the bathroom, anticipation evident in his eyes. The steam from the shower enveloped them as they stepped inside, ready to share yet another intimate moment.

 Loki let out a long sigh; this, this is what he had been yearning for—peace and intimacy not having to worry about that fucker. Loki had told Tony about the letter, and Tony couldn't help but worry, but Loki had reassured him. "As long as you're with me, there's nothing to fear," Loki had said, making Tony feel a sense of calm wash over him. "Hey, you okay?" Tony's voice snapped Loki out of his thoughts. He blinked, focusing on Tony's concerned face framed by the rising steam. Loki nodded, a soft smile forming as he leaned in to press a reassuring kiss to Tony's lips.

"With you, I always am," Loki whispered against Tony's lips. They stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, the warmth of the shower and the comfort of their love creating a sanctuary from the world outside. In that moment, Loki knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, he had found safety in Tony’s arms.

Unknown to them, a shadowy figure observed from a concealed vantage point just outside the bathroom window. The figure's eyes narrowed, filled with an unsettling mix of envy and malice. As the steam clouded the glass.  Before he could retreat, he petted the K9 by his side, a silent signal for the dog to remain quiet.  The dog shook his head and took out his tongue, panting softly. The figure scoffed quietly to himself. Did Thor really think he could stop him with a dog? The mere thought was laughable.  The figure then melted back into the darkness, leaving no trace of his presence except for the lingering feeling of unease that would haunt the lovers later.

Chapter Text

Loki,

I'm sorry, my love, for I have not written to you in such a long time. Life's demands have kept me away, but you have never left my thoughts. Know that my feelings for you remain as strong as ever. I visited you today at work and saw you immersed in your tasks, looking as dedicated as ever. Seeing you brought me a sense of peace and reminded me why I fell in love with you in the first place.

I was so close to you, so very close. I reached out to you, my fingers yearning for your skin to be beneath them, but I hesitated, knowing that our reunion had to wait just a bit longer. The longing in my heart only grew stronger, and I promise we'll be together soon. You have no idea how my heart yearns for you, how every beat echoes with the desire to be near you. Each day without you feels like an eternity, but I hold onto the hope that soon we will be reunited.

You smiled at me, and in that moment, all the distance and time apart seemed to vanish. Your green eyes sparkled when you talked to me, filling me with a warmth and joy that I had never known before. Your smile warms my soul and gives me the strength to endure just a little longer. Hold on, my love; our reunion is near. As always, you looked beautiful; your shoulder-length hair was pulled back in a bun, accentuating your graceful features. The way you moved with such purpose and confidence left me in awe. I can't wait for the day when I can hold you close and never let you go.

But it saddened me when I overheard you talking to your friends about me. You spoke with fear in your voice, as if I was a threat to your safety, but I'm not. All I want is to love and protect you, to show you that my intentions are pure and my heart beats only for you. It brought me pain to know that you are scared of me, but also a strange pleasure to hear you talking about me. The fear in your voice only makes me want to prove my devotion to you even more. Soon, you will see that my love is nothing to fear, and we will find our happiness together.

Tonight, I'll think of you as I touch myself, imagining your body intertwined with mine, feeling every inch of you. I hope you do the same, envisioning the passion we will share. The thought of you on top of me, riding me, fills me with an intense yearning that I can barely contain. The thought of marking your body with my love, leaving traces of our passion on your skin, excites me beyond words. The idea of our intimate connection being visible, a testament to our desire, makes my heart race with anticipation. I imagine trailing my fingers over your sensitive skin, especially where your tattoo lies, feeling the shivers that run through you.

My beautiful boy, you are my obsession, my eternal flame. I know you feel the connection between us, even if fear clouds your judgment now. Soon, you'll understand that our love is destined, and I'll be there to hold you in my arms, forever.

Your Secret Admirer

~*~*~*~

Loki had been relieved that he hadn't received a letter in two weeks, allowing him to believe that perhaps his tormentor had finally moved on. But when he found the letter at the restaurant, his heart sank, shattering the fragile illusion of peace he had clung to. The obsessive words scrawled across the page reminded him that his nightmare was far from over.

~*~*~*~
Tears streamed down Loki's face as he told his parents about the situation of the letters. "I don't know who they are, but these letters keep coming," he confessed, his voice trembling with fear and confusion. His parents exchanged worried glances, realizing the gravity of the situation and the impact it was having on their son. “I visited you today at work and saw you immersed in your tasks, looking as dedicated as ever.” The words echoed in Loki's head like a broken mantra, pulling him deeper into a whirlpool of anxiety. He couldn't fathom who was watching him so closely or why they felt compelled to send these unsettling messages.

"Loki," his mother said gently, "why didn't you tell us in the first place?" she asked, pulling him out of his thoughts as she reached out to hold his hands, her eyes filled with concern. "We could have helped you sooner and maybe even put an end to this." Loki sniffled, "I didn't want to worry all of you," he admitted, his gaze dropping to the floor. "I thought I could handle it on my own, but it's getting worse." His father placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, "We're here for you, son. We’ll find a way to stop this together." Frigga glanced at Thor, her brow furrowing in concern. "Is this why you brought that dog, Thor?" she asked, her voice a mixture of curiosity and worry.

Thor shuffled nervously and nodded, his expression serious, "Yes, Mother. I thought Fenrir might help Loki feel safer and alert us if someone suspicious comes near." Frigga looked at the loyal dog by Loki's side, feeling a small measure of relief that her sons were taking steps to protect each other. Frigga sighed deeply, her eyes reflecting a mix of frustration and worry. "Why didn't either of you say anything sooner? This is serious, and we need to address it immediately," she said, her voice firm yet compassionate. Loki and Thor exchanged guilty glances before Loki spoke up. "I told him not to say anything," Loki admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm sorry, I didn't want to cause any trouble." Frigga smiled sadly, her expression softening as she looked at her sons. "I understand, Loki, but secrets can cause more harm than good.”

Odin cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention. "We will not let this go unchecked," he declared, his voice resolute. "Our priority now is to ensure Loki's safety and find out who is behind these letters." Frigga frowned, her concern deepening. "I'll call the police," Frigga said, walking to the kitchen. "They'll know what to do and how to handle this properly." Loki's father nodded in agreement, "Yes, it's time to bring in the authorities. We can't take any chances with your safety." Loki nodded, realizing the gravity of the situation. He understood that involving the police was the best course of action to ensure his safety and uncover the truth behind the threatening letters.
~*~*~*~
The sound of a door opening and closing could be heard, followed by the echo of footsteps approaching. A firm knock on the door interrupted the tense silence, causing everyone to turn towards the entrance, hearts pounding with anticipation. Frigga moved to open the door and two police officers stood there, their expressions professional yet concerned. "Good evening, ma'am," one of them said, tipping his hat slightly. "We've received your call and are here to help." Frigga stepped aside to let them in, her heart heavy with worry but hopeful that the situation would soon be under control.

"Please come in," Frigga said, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. The officers entered, scanning the room before focusing on Loki. "We'll need to ask some questions to get a better understanding of the situation," one of them stated gently. "My name is Officer Wade, and this here is Officer Logan," he said, gesturing to the other man who maintained a serious expression. "We understand this is a difficult time, but we're here to ensure your safety and find out who is behind these threats." Officer Logan nodded, his eyes scanning the room as if already piecing together clues.

"Please, take a seat. Would you like anything to drink?" Frigga offered, her voice warm and inviting despite the circumstances. Officer Wade shook his head politely, "No, I'm fine, thank you." He glanced at Officer Logan, who also declined the offer with a slight nod. Officer Wade took a seat and took out a notepad and pen, ready to jot down details. Loki, who had been standing by the window, finally took a seat across from the officer. Frigga sat down next to Loki, subtly reaching under the table to grab her son's hand. She gave it a reassuring squeeze, hoping to provide him some comfort as the questioning began.

"Okay Let's start from the beginning," he said, looking at Loki with a reassuring smile. "Can you tell us when you first started receiving these letters?" Loki nodded, his fingers nervously tapping on the armrest of his chair. He side-glanced at Officer Logan, who was still meticulously surveying the room, taking in every detail. "It started about two weeks ago," Loki began, his voice trembling slightly."The first letter was left on my desk at school," Loki continued, his voice barely above a whisper. "At first, I thought it was just a prank from one of my classmates, but then more letters started appearing, each one more intimidating than the last." Officer Wade nodded, jotting down notes. "Have you noticed anyone suspicious hanging around your school or following you?" he asked, his tone gentle but probing. Loki shook his head. "But I do recall one of the letters saying that they watched me while I was doing my morning runs," he added, his eyes widening with the memory. "It made me realize that whoever this is, they've been stalking me for some time," Loki said, a shiver running down his spine. "I even started changing my route and time, but the letters kept coming."

Officer Wade's brow furrowed as he jotted this down, exchanging a concerned glance with Officer Logan. "Do you still have these letters?" Officer Logan asked, his tone calm but firm. Loki shook his head. "No, the last two I ripped up. I only have the first letter I received and this one," he said, pulling the letters out of his sweater pocket, handing over the two letters with a trembling hand. Officer Wade carefully took the letters, examining them closely before passing them to Officer Logan. "This is definitely a stalker," Wade said, tapping his pen on the table thoughtfully. "We'll need to analyze these letters for any identifiable marks or traces that could lead us to the sender." Frigga squeezed Loki's hand tighter, her heart aching for her son's safety and peace of mind.

Loki swallowed hard, rubbing his temples in frustration and fear. Why is this happening to him?”

“ I was so close to you, so very close. I reached out to you, my fingers yearning for your skin to be beneath them, but I hesitated, knowing that our reunion had to wait just a bit longer.”Those words kept repeating in his head. He let out a deep sigh, realizing that what he initially dismissed as a harmless, stupid crush had turned into something far more sinister. The thought that someone could be so obsessed with him filled him with dread, making him feel trapped and vulnerable. Officer Logan turned to Loki, his expression serious. "Why did you wait so long to report it?" Logan asked, his gaze fixed on Loki. Loki swallowed hard, his eyes darting to the floor. "I guess I hoped it would just stop on its own," he admitted, his voice barely audible. Officer Logan leaned forward, his expression stern. "Boy, this is a serious situation," he said, emphasizing each word. "You should have come to us sooner. The sooner we know, the sooner we can protect you." Loki licked his lip and nodded, a mixture of fear and regret evident in his eyes. "I understand," he whispered, "I just didn't want to cause any more trouble."

"But this trouble you didn't want to cause has gotten serious," Logan said, his voice firm but not unkind. Officer Wade glanced at his partner, a look that silently urged him to soften his approach. "Logan, let's not scare the kid," he said gently, turning back to Loki with a more reassuring smile. "We're here to help you, and it's important that you feel safe coming to us with anything, okay?Loki nodded, his shoulders relaxing slightly at Officer Wade's reassuring words. "Okay," he said softly, feeling a small sense of relief. "Thank you for understanding." Before Wade could say anything, the door opened and Hela stepped in with a worried look on her face. She was still in her EMS uniform, her messy bun barely holding together. "Loki, are you okay?" she asked. "I came as soon as I received Thor's message," she said, her voice tinged with urgency. Frigga stood up and walked to her daughter, giving her a side hug. "We're trying to sort everything out, Hela," she assured, her gaze shifting to Loki with maternal concern.

"Officer Logan," he said, extending a hand to Hela. "We're doing everything we can to get to the bottom of this." Hela shook his hand, her eyes still fixed on Loki, worry etched deep into her features. Wade asked, "What is your relationship with Loki?" Hela took a deep breath, her eyes never leaving her brother. "Loki is my younger brother.” Logan nodded as he watched Hela walk up to her parents. "We'll need to ask more questions as well," he said gently, noting the family's tense expressions. "Did he ever mention in the other letters if he intended on doing something to you?" Logan asked, his tone growing more serious. “ My beautiful boy, you are my obsession, my eternal flame. I know you feel the connection between us, even if fear clouds your judgment now.” Loki shook his head, uncertainty clouding his eyes. "No, he never mentioned anything specific like that," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. "All I know is that I've been watched closely by a stranger who keeps sending me these letters. He even visited the restaurant I work in and, in the letter, mentioned that we interacted. It's unsettling to know he's been so close without me realizing it."

 Logan scribbled down his words, his brow furrowing in thought."Do you remember interacting with him?" Logan asked. Loki shook his head. "There are so many people that eat there, it's hard to keep track of everyone," he admitted, frustration creeping into his voice.  Wade thought about what Loki said without saying anything for a moment, then shifted the focus back to the letters. "Let's focus on these letters for now," he suggested. Wade glanced at Logan, sensing they had an idea where to start investigating this stalker, but they needed more information "Where exactly have you been finding them?” Loki hesitated for a moment before answering, "They were left on my doorstep, always in the same type of envelope." Wade leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Can you describe the envelope? Any markings or peculiarities that stood out?" Loki nodded, recalling the details. "The envelope is always a plain, off-white color with no return address," Loki described, his voice trembling slightly. "It's sealed with a wax stamp that has an intricate, almost ancient design on it." He paused, trying to recall more details. "The handwriting inside is elegant but feels old-fashioned, like something out of a different era."

Wade nodded, absorbing the information. "Has he made any threats towards you or anyone else?" he asked, his tone growing even more serious. Loki shook his head slowly, though fear lingered in his eyes. "No direct threats, but the letters always hint at knowing too much about my life, my routine," Loki explained, the anxiety evident in his voice. "But he did make a threat towards my boyfriend Tony Stark," Loki leaned forward, his voice trembling with fabricated concern. "I'm worried this man might hurt him to get to me," he added, hoping his lie would keep both him and Tony protected. Wade's eyes narrowed, and he scribbled more notes, the gravity of the situation deepening. Logan turned to Loki, his eyes widening slightly. "Did you say Tony Stark? As in the Stark family?" he asked, his tone filled with a mixture of surprise and concern. Loki nodded, his expression serious. "Yes, the very same," he confirmed, hoping the mention of Tony's influential name would prompt quicker action. "I see," Logan muttered.

Wade rolled his eyes at Logan's reaction and turned to Loki. "Do you have anything else to say?" Wade asked softly. "Do you guys know anyone who would do this?" Logan asked. Loki shook his head, leaning back in the chair. "No, officer, but I'm afraid, and he knows it too," Loki admitted, his voice wavering slightly. “It brought me pain to know that you are scared of me, but also a strange pleasure to hear you talking about me. The fear in your voice only makes me want to prove my devotion to you even more.” Loki wondered what kind of twisted pleasure this person could derive from his fear. How could someone who claimed to like him take such joy in his vulnerability? Loki realized that this person was not just a harmless admirer, but a dangerous individual who took pleasure in his torment. It was no longer a laughing matter; his safety was at serious risk.

Logan tapped his finger on his arm thoughtfully, his eyes narrowing in concentration. "Is there any other detail he mentioned that could help us identify him?" he asked. Loki hesitated, then nodded, recalling a specific phrase. "He mentioned meeting me but I have no idea what that means," Loki said, his voice tinged with uncertainty. Wade leaned in closer, his pen poised above the notepad. "Did he say anything about where or when he met you?" he asked. Loki bit his lip, trying to recall the cryptic messages. "He mentioned a place from my past, the old library on Fifth Avenue. But he never specified a date," Loki replied, Wade sighed, rubbing his temple in frustration. "Can you think of any other detail, no matter how small, that could give us a clue?" he pressed. Loki shook his head. "No, I can't think of anything else. The letters that I gave Officer Logan are all I have," he said, the frustration evident in his voice.

Oh, how he wished he could go back in time and not have ripped those letters, Loki thought. If only he had been more careful, maybe they wouldn't be in this mess. “ Tonight, I'll think of you as I touch myself, imagining your body intertwined with mine, feeling every inch of you. I hope you do the same, envisioning the passion we will share.” Loki felt bile rise in his throat but suppressed the urge to throw up. He couldn't believe that some twisted man was out there getting off on his fear. The thought made his skin crawl, and he shuddered involuntarily, wishing he could erase the disturbing words from his memory.

"Okay, one more question: do your friends and boyfriend know about these letters?" Wade asked. Loki nodded, feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. "Yes, they know. I've kept them in the loop ever since the letters started arriving. We've also been trying to figure out who they are," Loki continued, his voice tinged with frustration. Wade paused for a moment, considering his next words carefully. "Okay, if it's okay with you, is it okay if we interview them?" he asked, hoping to gather more information from Loki's friends and boyfriend. Loki hesitated briefly before nodding.

"Okay," Wade said, jotting down notes. "Can you please tell me the names of your friends? We already know you're dating Tony Stark, so we'll start with him." Loki took a deep breath, thinking carefully. "There's Natasha Romanoff, Steve Rogers and his brother James but we all call him Bucky, Bruce Banner and Clint Barton," he listed. "Okay, perfect," Wade said, standing up. "That's all we need for now. We'll be in touch if we have any more questions." Wade said, extending his hand. Loki shook it, feeling a slight sense of reassurance from the firm grip. "Thank you for your cooperation, Loki. We'll do everything we can to get to the bottom of this," Wade promised, giving him a determined look. Logan extended his hand too, his voice serious and unwavering. "We'll get this sorted, Loki. You have my word," he said, locking eyes with him. Loki nodded, feeling a small glimmer of hope amidst the turmoil.

They all said their farewells, and Frigga walked them out, closing the door softly behind them. As she turned back to Loki, she gave him a reassuring smile. "We'll get through this together," she said, her voice filled with maternal warmth and determination. Hela rubbed her forehead, clearly troubled by the situation. "This is more serious than I thought," she murmured, glancing at Loki with concern. "Did you know about this?" Frigga asked, her eyes narrowing as she turned to Hela. Hela smiled nervously, her fingers fidgeting. "I had an inkling, but I didn't realize it had escalated to this extent," she admitted, her voice tinged with worry. Frigga and Odin sighed in unison, exchanging a glance filled with a mixture of frustration and understanding. "You also knew and didn't say anything?" Odin asked, his voice carrying a tone of disappointment. Hela looked down, avoiding their eyes as she nodded slightly.

"We didn't want to worry all of you," she confessed softly. "You all have so much responsibility, and I knew that if Thor knew, he would make sure everything turned out okay.” Frigga's expression softened as she approached Hela, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "We appreciate your intentions, Hela, but keeping secrets only complicates matters," she said kindly. "We are family, and we face our challenges together." Frigga turned to Loki and smiled softly. "Don't worry, dear. You'll be okay," she assured him, her voice filled with unwavering confidence and love. Loki took a deep breath, feeling a bit of the tension in his chest ease as he met her kind gaze."Thank you, Mother," Loki whispered, his voice barely audible but filled with gratitude. Frigga's smile widened, and she pulled him into a comforting embrace. "We'll find a way through this, together," she promised, her words wrapping around him like a warm blanket.
~*~*~*~

Wade closed the door and put his hat on. "Poor kid," he said, turning to Logan, who was lighting up a cigarette. Logan exhaled a plume of smoke, his eyes narrowing. "I wonder why they are sending these letters," Wade muttered as they both walked up to the police car. Wade handed Logan the keys, who took them with a gruff nod."Probably some kid who doesn't have a life," Logan said, his voice rough as he took another drag from his cigarette.

Wade chuckled, shaking his head. "Yeah, but it's causing a lot of trouble for the family ," he replied, opening the car door and sliding into the passenger seat. Logan flicked the ash from his cigarette and climbed into the driver's seat. "We'll find out soon enough. We still have to interview the boy's friends and boyfriend," he added, starting the engine. Wade nodded in agreement.

The car roared to life as Logan backed out of the driveway. The headlights cut through the night, illuminating the deserted street as they set off to investigate this disturbing situation that the family was facing. Unknown to them that the figure stood across the street, watching the car pull away from the driveway. Their eyes darted to the window where they could see Loki's room, a smirk appeared on their lips. "Soon," they whispered to themselves, disappearing into the shadows of the night.

Chapter Text

"They want to interview all of us? " Tony asked as he continued to type on the computer. His fingers flew over the keys, barely pausing as he processed the surprising news. Tony couldn't afford any distractions, considering how far behind he was in his school work. The looming deadline for his term paper was already causing him sleepless nights. And his parents were on his ass about his grades, constantly reminding him of the importance of maintaining a high GPA. 

" A Stark isn't a failure, " his father's voice echoed in his mind. Tony rolled his eyes and shut the computer. 

He heard a sigh through the phone. "Yes," Loki's voice sounded tired, and a worried frown appeared on Tony's face. "It's just going to be quick; they just want to know about the stalker," Loki reassured him. Tony sighed, leaning back in his chair. "Oh babe, I'm glad you called the police," Tony said, relief evident in his voice.  Loki chuckled weakly, "I had to, Tony. This has gone too far." Tony nodded, his shoulders relaxing slightly. "Whoever this fucker is," Tony said, his voice hardening, "they're going to regret messing with you." Loki gave a small smile, appreciating Tony's protective demeanor.

Tony pushed himself off the table and stood up, grabbing a bottle of vodka from his hidden stack behind the bookshelf. He took a swig, feeling the burn as it went down, and let out a slow breath.  "Do the others know?" he asked. Loki sighed through the phone, " Yes, I texted them in the group chat. Didn't you see it?" Tony stifled a cough before responding, "No, I didn't see it. I've been so buried in my school work that I missed the messages." He glanced at his phone, realizing just how many notifications he'd ignored in the past few hours.  Tony put the phone back to his ear, feeling a bit guilty for missing the updates. "Sorry about that, I should have been more attentive," he admitted. Loki's voice softened, "It's okay, Tony.” 

Tony sighed and smiled, "Anyways, enough of this," Tony said, his voice turning husky. "Do you have plans tonight?" Loki's tone lightened, a hint of mischief in his reply. "Well, I might be free for a certain someone," he teased. "Hmmm," Tony hummed thoughtfully. "And who could that certain someone be?" he asked, a playful grin spreading across his face. Loki laughed softly, "Why don't you come over and find out?"  Tony's grin widened as he glanced at the clock. "Give me an hour," he said, already planning what to wear. "I'll be there before you know it." Loki hummed thoughtfully, "What about your homework, Tony? Don't you have a term paper due soon?" Tony groaned, running a hand through his hair. "I'll bring my laptop with me. Maybe you can help me brainstorm while we hang out," he suggested.

"Okay," Loki said, "but no distractions." Tony made a fake gasp, "But I was going there to play with you, not to write a paper." Loki giggled, "Well, we can make a deal—work first, then play."  Tony considered the offer, a smirk playing on his lips. "Alright, deal. But you better be ready to multitask because I plan on doing both at the same time," he teased. Loki chuckled, "Challenge accepted, Stark." 

"Wow, now you're calling me Stark? We're back to last name bases?" Tony asked, laughing. He could already imagine Loki raising an eyebrow and a  mischievous glint appearing in his eye. "Only when we're negotiating terms, Stark," he replied with a smirk.   Tony laughed, shaking his head. "You're impossible," Tony said with a grin. "But that's why you love me," Loki shot back, his voice filled with playful affection. Tony couldn't help but chuckle, "Alright, “I’ll see you in an hour.”  Loki sighed through the phone, his voice dropping to a sultry whisper. "As I wait for you, I'll touch myself and think about you, Mr. Stark." Tony's breath hitched slightly, but he responded with a teasing tone, "Don't start without me." A moan escaped Loki's lips. "I'm afraid I've already started," he confessed. Tony's pulse quickened, and he replied, "Well, then you'd better save some for me." Another moan slipped from Loki's lips, sending a shiver down Tony's spine. He shuffled on his feet, feeling himself hardening at the sound. "You really know how to drive me crazy," Tony muttered, his voice thick with desire. Loki chuckled, "That's the plan, Stark." Tony swallowed hard, gripping his phone tighter. "Just make sure to keep that energy up when I get there." 

"Hmm," Loki hummed, "if you don't hurry up, I might start humping my pillow." Tony let out a breathy laugh, "Now that's an image that'll get me there even faster." Loki's voice was a whisper, dripping with anticipation, "Good, because I don't plan on stopping until you're here."  Tony was about to grab his jacket when he heard a knock on his bedroom door. Tony sighed, "Hold on a second, Loki." He heard Loki whimper softly, "Okay, but hurry." He walked over to the door, wondering who could be bothering him at this hour.  He opened the door and raised an eyebrow when he saw Jarvis, the family butler. "Master Tony, some officers are here to talk to you," Jarvis said, his expression serious. "What kind of trouble have you gotten into now?" Tony chuckled nervously, "No trouble at all, old pal."  Jarvis raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. "Your parents aren't here, and you're my responsibility until they return,"he reminded Tony sternly.

Tony rolled his eyes; he already knew why they were there. "They're not here for me," Tony said, trying to sound casual. "They're here to investigate some letters that Loki has been receiving." Jarvis, still not convinced, narrowed his eyes and replied, "Very well, but I will be keeping a close watch on you, Master Tony." Tony suppressed the urge to roll his eyes again and nodded. "Tell them I'll be there in a minute," he said with a sigh. "I'll handle it, don't worry." He glanced back at his phone, realizing his plans with Loki might have to wait. "Hey, babe," Tony said, trying to keep his voice steady. He heard hesitation through the phone. "I heard what Jarvis said," Loki replied. "I guess they want to investigate this fast," Loki said, concern evident in his voice. Tony nodded, even though Loki couldn't see him. "It's for the best," Tony said, trying to sound reassuring. "If we want that fucker to leave you alone, we need to cooperate and get this over with." Loki sighed but agreed, "Alright, but be careful, Tony. I'll be waiting."

"See you later, babe, " Tony said, his voice softening. "I'll call you as soon as it's over." Loki's voice held a warmth that made Tony smile, " I'll be waiting. Good luck."

 Tony hung up and looked at the door with determination. If he wanted that fucker to leave his boyfriend alone, he needed to face whatever was coming head-on. Taking a deep breath, he squared his shoulders and prepared to meet the officers downstairs.   This wasn't the first time he had faced an officer,  but it was never in a kind way. And it likely wouldn't be the last. Memories of past confrontations flashed in his mind, but this time, he was fueled by a fierce protectiveness for Loki. With each step, his resolve hardened; he would do whatever it took to keep him safe. He just hoped that his encounter would bring him one step closer to ensuring Loki's safety.

~*~*~*~

"My name is Officer Wade, and this is Officer Logan," said the taller of the two as Tony reached the bottom of the stairs. Tony nodded, taking in their stern expressions. He adjusted his posture, trying to exude confidence and control. "How can I assist you, officers?" he asked, keeping his tone polite but guarded. "We're here to ask a few questions regarding some letters your boyfriend has been receiving," Officer Wade said, his tone professional but firm. Tony's eyes narrowed slightly, his protective instincts kicking in. "Of course, I'll do my best to help," he replied, gesturing for them to sit down.  Out of the corner of his eye, Tony could see Jarvis shooting him a look that clearly said, "You better explain later." Tony gave a slight nod in acknowledgment before turning his full attention back to the officers.

 "Okay," Wade said, sitting down. "We already know who you are, Mr. Stark, and we appreciate your cooperation." Tony nodded, feeling the weight of the situation settle over him. "Let's get straight to the point," Logan interjected, "Do you have any idea who might be behind these letters?" Tony shook his head. "No," he said, "but the first letter Loki received was left on his school desk." Officer Logan's brow furrowed. "Do you know if Loki has had any trouble with anyone at school?" he asked, leaning forward slightly. Tony sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Not that I'm aware of," he replied, frustration evident in his voice. "Loki keeps to himself mostly, and he's never mentioned any specific issues with anyone."

"However, Loki did mention feeling uneasy for a few days before the letter appeared," Tony added, recalling their recent conversations. "He said he felt like someone was watching him, but he couldn't pinpoint who it was." Officer Wade exchanged a glance with Logan, both officers now more alert .

"Did Loki mention if he ever felt like he was being followed?" Officer Wade asked, his voice tinged with concern. Tony shook his head slowly. "No, he never mentioned being followed, just that unsettling feeling of being watched." Officer Wade nodded thoughtfully, making a few notes in his notepad. Wade hummed thoughtfully. "When the letter appeared, was someone there when you got to the classroom?" he asked. Tony shook his head. "No, the classroom was empty when we got there," he replied."The envelope was just sitting there on his desk," Tony continued. "At first, we thought it was a prank, maybe some kids were messing around. But when we opened it and read the contents, it became clear that this was something much more serious."

 Wade nodded, jotting down more notes in his pad. "Can you recall any specific details about the letter itself? Anything unusual about the handwriting, the paper, or even the envelope?" Tony paused, trying to remember every detail. "I do remember the handwriting," Tony said slowly. "It was very neat, almost too perfect, like it was written by someone who took their time or had practice," he explained."It felt like it belonged to a different era," Tony added, his brow furrowing in thought. "The style was old-fashioned, with flourishes and loops that you don't often see in modern handwriting." Wade nodded, taking notes as Tony spoke. "Now that I think about it, my friend Bruce practices handwriting like this," Tony said, frowning. "But even his handwriting doesn't compare to this one; he's been trying to master it for years without success." Wade and Logan raised their eyebrows at the new information but didn't say anything. They glanced at each other but didn't want to jump to conclusions without having evidence. 

"Did he ever tell you the reason why he wanted to learn?" Logan asked, breaking the silence. Tony nodded, recalling their conversations. "Bruce was always fascinated by historical documents and wanted to replicate the elegance of old manuscripts," he explained. Logan raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "So he wanted to master calligraphy to bring a touch of the past into the modern world?" he mused, trying to piece together Bruce's motivations."Yeah," Tony said with a smile. "I was interested too, but I got bored after a few lessons. Bruce, on the other hand, was relentless in perfecting every stroke and flouris,  but even he gave up when he saw how hard it was." Logan nodded, contemplating the implications.  Wade laced his fingers together, deep in thought. "If Bruce gave up because of the difficulty, then whoever wrote these letters must have a significant dedication or background in calligraphy," he concluded.  

Wade sighed and glanced at Tony. "Is there anyone among your other friends who might be interested in this kind of meticulous handwriting too?" he asked, hoping for a lead. Tony tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Now that you mention it, Steve has always had an interest in this kind of precise handwriting too. He even took up calligraphy as a hobby a while back," he replied.  Wade and Logan exchanged glances, their suspicions growing. "But he gave up too when he saw how hard it was," Tony added with a shrug. Logan and Wade both sighed in disappointment, realizing their lead had hit a dead end.

Instead Wade redirected the conversation. "Let's focus on the contents of the letter for now. Were there any specific threats or demands mentioned?" Tony hesitated for a moment before answering, "Yes," he finally said. "It mentioned that they have met Loki a couple of times," Tony revealed. "The letter detailed specific encounters, like meetings at the library and passing each other at the park where Loki goes running. The level of detail about Loki's daily habits and routines was incredibly unsettling," he added with a frown. "And in the other letter, it mentioned they had come face-to-face at Loki's workplace," Tony continued. "It seems like whoever is sending these letters is observing Loki very closely, and that has us all on edge."

"He knows Loki quite well," Logan murmured, a frown forming on his face. "This isn't just a random stalker; it sounds like someone who has been watching him closely for a while." 

Logan glanced at Tony. "Does Loki have an ex who might be involved?" he asked, his eyes narrowing as he considered the possibilities. Tony shook his head slowly. "No, I am his first boyfriend," Tony replied firmly, “Loki hasn't had any significant relationships before me, so I can't think of anyone but that doesn't rule out other people who might have an unhealthy interest in him."  

"What about a friend or an old acquaintance?" Logan asked, his gaze sharpening. Tony thought for a moment before replying, "Well, there was this one friend, Mobius. They were pretty close for a while, almost inseparable," Tony said, his expression thoughtful. "But Mobius moved away a few years ago. I haven't heard anything about him since.” 

"Did Mobius seem like the type of person to become obsessed?" Logan asked, his eyes narrowing with suspicion. Tony shook his head slowly. "Not really, Mobius always seemed pretty balanced and down-to-earth," he replied.  He sighed, clearly frustrated by the lack of clear suspects."But why would a friend be obsessed?" Tony asked, shaking his head in disbelief. "It's possible that someone might have developed feelings for Loki over time, even if they never expressed it openly," Logan suggested, leaning back thoughtfully."There have been cases where unrequited love turns into an unhealthy obsession," Logan continued. "People can sometimes fixate on someone they can't have, leading to dangerous behaviors."

 Wade agreed, nodding slowly. "Yeah, I've seen it happen before. Sometimes, the person doesn't even realize how deep their feelings run until it's too late." Tony glanced at Wade, a look of concern crossing his face."So you're saying that one of our friends might have secretly harbored feelings for him all this time?" Tony asked, trying to wrap his head around the possibility. Wade sighed, "It's possible, Tony. Sometimes, people hide their feelings so well that even they don't fully acknowledge them."  Tony saw red, his fists clenching involuntarily. The thought that one of his friends could be harboring such dangerous feelings for Loki. "So you're telling me there's a stalker among us?" Tony asked, his voice tinged with disbelief and rising anger. "Hold on, Tony," Logan interjected, raising a hand to calm him. "We can't jump to conclusions just yet. It's important to remember that your friends are still your friends until proven otherwise.”  Tony groaned at the thought that one of his friends, friends he has known for so long, could be harboring a crush on Loki that was now turning into an obsession. "It's just hard to believe," he muttered, running a hand through his hair. 

 Wade sighed, "Kid, like Logan said, don't jump to conclusions. We need more evidence before making any accusations, otherwise, we might end up alienating someone innocent." Tony scoffed, "Even if they are my friends, I won't hesitate to call them out on their bullshit. Just because they have an obsession with Loki doesn't mean they get a free pass." Logan rolled his eyes. "None of them are getting a free pass, Tony," he said firmly. "But we need to approach this with caution and gather concrete evidence first." Wade nodded in agreement, "Rushing in will only cause more harm than good. "That's why we'll interview them, ask questions about who else could be involved," Wade suggested. "If we see anyone acting suspiciously, we can dig deeper. Accusing your friends without solid proof will cause damage that not even you will live down—the guilt would be unbearable.”

 Tony sighed as the realization dawned on him; he had let his judgment cloud his mind.  Tony knew he had to trust the friends who had stood by him through thick and thin. He couldn't let his suspicions ruin those valuable relationships. The thought of losing them to baseless accusations was a nightmare he couldn't afford. His friends were his family, and the idea of driving a wedge between them over unverified concerns tore at his heart. Tony took a deep breath, resolving to tread carefully and protect the bonds he cherished.

 Wade's voice broke through his thoughts. "Loki mentioned that his friends are Clint Barton, Bruce Banner, Steve Rogers, James 'Bucky' Rogers, and Natasha Romanoff. Is that correct?" Wade asked as he listed down the names.  Tony nodded. "Yes, they are the closest to us, but I can't imagine any of them being involved in something like this," Tony said, his voice tinged with disbelief. "They're like family to us, and none of them would betray our trust."

"Which is why we'll interview them, ask them questions, and, like I said before, if we see someone acting suspiciously, we'll step in," Wade reiterated. "We need to be thorough and methodical to ensure we uncover the truth without causing unnecessary damage." Tony nodded, determined to find answers while preserving the trust and unity within his friends. "We'll also look into this Mobius guy," Wade added. "Do you know his full name?" Logan asked. Tony sighed, shaking his head. "No, Loki never mentioned his full name," he admitted, frustration evident in his voice."Do you know where he moved?" Wade asked. Tony frowned, deep in thought. Then he remembered and said, "He moved to Canada."

"Okay, we'll look into that," Wade said, jotting down the information. "In the meantime, let's start setting up the interviews with the others." Tony nodded, feeling a mix of apprehension and determination as they prepared to dig deeper into the mystery.

 Tony stood up as he saw Wade and Logan rise from their seats. "Thank you, Mr. Stark," Wade said, offering a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, we'll look into this and get to the bottom of it." Tony smiled thinly, appreciating Wade's reassurance but still feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on him. "I know you will," he replied, his voice steady despite the turmoil within. "Let's hope we're wrong about this, for everyone's sake."

"Have a nice day, Mr. Stark," Wade said, putting his hat on. Logan shook hands with Tony, giving him a firm nod before the two of them left the room.  Tony watched them leave, his mind racing. He knew Logan had advised not to jump to conclusions, but he couldn't shake the feeling that one of his friends might be obsessed with Loki. He might be wrong, but he wasn't going to take any chances. While the police did their own investigation, Tony was going to do one too. He took out his phone and dialed the first number that he saw. "Hey, it's Tony," he said, trying to keep his voice calm. "We need to meet—there's something important we need to discuss."

Chapter Text

"Wait, you want me to investigate your friends because you believe that one of them could be stalking Loki?" Hill asked, her voice filled with concern. Tony sighed as he ran a hand through his hair. "Yes, but I don't know who it is. The police told me not to jump to conclusions, but I can't help it," he admitted, his frustration evident. "I need to make sure Loki is safe, and I don't know who else to trust with this." Hill sighed as she took a sip of her coffee, leaving behind a red smudge on her cup. "Have you noticed anyone acting strangely or out of character?" she inquired, trying to help Tony piece together the puzzle. Tony shook his head no, his expression one of helplessness. "Everyone seems normal, but I can't shake this gut feeling that something's off," he replied, his voice reflecting his inner turmoil. Hill leaned forward, her eyes softening. "Tony, maybe you're reading too much into this. If you keep this up, you'll not only hurt yourself but also strain your relationships with everyone around you." She couldn't read his expression behind his sunglasses, but she sensed his anxiety. "Maybe," Tony muttered, his voice heavy with doubt. "But I can't ignore my instincts, Hill. Something just doesn't add up."

"I understand how you feel, but you need to take a step back and let the police do their job," Hill suggested gently. Tony sighed deeply. "That's the thing, Hill. If I let the police handle everything, things could get worse, and Loki might get hurt." He rubbed his temples, worry etched across his face. Hill nodded understandingly. "Alright, Tony. I'll do what you say and look into everyone. Just promise me you'll try to stay calm and not let this consume you," she urged, hoping to ease his mind. Tony took a deep breath and nodded. "I promise, Hill. I'll try to keep it together," he said, though his voice lacked confidence. "But if anything happens to Loki, I won't be able to forgive myself."

"Nothing will happen to Loki, and I promise you your friends aren't the stalker," she said as she stirred her coffee. "Maybe it could be someone else behind these letters, someone who is obsessed with him." Her words offered a glimmer of hope, but Tony still struggled to shake off his fears. Tony took off his sunglasses, revealing eyes that were tired. "I hope you're right, Hill," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I just need to find out who it is before it's too late."

"Like I said, I'll keep an eye on everyone and investigate their every move," Hill reassured him, her tone firm yet comforting. "You focus on staying calm and keeping Loki safe; leave the rest to me." Tony nodded, feeling a small sense of relief wash over him."Thank you so much for agreeing to help," Tony said, putting his sunglasses back on. "I don't know what I'd do without you." Hill gave him a reassuring smile, hoping her support would be enough to keep his fears at bay. "I'll start when you say the word," she said confidently. "You could start now," Tony replied, taking a deep breath as he prepared for what was to come.

~*~*~*~
Bruce glanced up from his homework when he heard a knock on his door and a soft voice from his mother called out, “Bruce, can I come in?” she asked softly. Bruce sighed, “Come in,” he said, setting the pen down and taking off his glasses. His mother entered with a concerned look on her face, clearly ready to discuss something important. Bruce raised an eyebrow. "Is everything okay?" he asked. His mother answered, "There are two police officers here; they say they want to talk to you." Bruce's heart raced as he remembered the group chat from earlier that week. "It's okay, Mom," he said, trying to sound calm. "They're probably here to ask some questions about a friend of mine." His mother raised an eyebrow. "A friend? What kind of trouble are you mixed up in, Bruce?" she asked sternly. "Is this about that Stark kid? What kind of trouble has he gotten into now?" she asked, making Bruce chuckle nervously. "No, this isn't about Stark," he said quickly. "It's about Loki. They've come to ask a few questions about some letters he's been receiving." Bruce tried to keep his voice steady, hoping to reassure his mother. His mother's concern deepened. "Loki? What kind of letters? And why would they involve you?" She folded her arms, waiting for Bruce to explain further."Look, I'll explain later," he said, glancing nervously toward the door. "Right now, I just need you to trust me and stay calm." His mother hesitated for a moment, her eyes searching his face for any sign of deceit. "Alright," she finally said, her voice softening. "But you better come straight to me after you're done talking to them. I need to know what's going on." He nodded as his mother turned to walk away, but Bruce quickly added, "And please don't tell Dad about this, okay?" She paused, looking back at him with a mixture of worry and understanding. "I won't," she promised, before finally leaving the room.Bruce sighed, feeling nervous; he had never faced an officer before—that was more of Tony's thing. He took a deep breath and tried to steady his racing thoughts, knowing he needed to stay calm and collected. With one last glance at his homework, he got up and headed towards the door, bracing himself for whatever questions the officers had.

With each step, he felt a knot grow in his stomach, tightening with every breath. By the time he reached the door, his palms were sweaty and his heart pounded in his chest. He opened the door and walked to the living room, coming face to face with the police. He forced a polite smile despite the anxiety churning inside him, hoping it would mask his unease."Hello, Bruce. My name is Officer Wade, and this is Officer Logan," the first officer said, extending a hand for a handshake. Bruce took the offered hand, trying to keep his grip steady. "We just have a few questions about the letters your friend Loki has been receiving," Officer Logan added, his tone professional yet firm. Bruce swallowed hard, his mind racing. "Of course, officers. I'll help in any way I can," he replied, hoping his voice didn't betray the fear creeping up his spine. Logan raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything as he followed Bruce and Wade into the kitchen. The room was small and cluttered, with papers and knick-knacks scattered across the counter. Bruce gestured to the table, "Please, have a seat. Can I get you anything to drink?"

"We're fine, thank you," Officer Wade replied, taking a seat. Bruce sat down across from them, clasping his hands together to stop them from trembling. "Let's get straight to the point," Officer Logan said, pulling out a notepad."As you may be aware, Loki has been receiving letters from a secret admirer," Officer Logan began, his eyes narrowing slightly as he watched Bruce's reaction. Bruce nodded, trying to maintain his composure. "Yes, I’m aware," Bruce said carefully, his mind racing to recall any details that might be relevant to the investigation."Do you know or know someone that might be sending these letters?" Wade asked, his tone probing. Bruce hesitated for a moment, then shook his head. "No, I really don't. But the first letter that he received was left on his desk.” he said, hoping his answer was convincing enough to satisfy the officers. Officer Logan's piercing blue eyes seemed to bore into Bruce as he spoke, analyzing every twitch and microexpression. His chiseled jaw remained clenched, betraying a sense of suspicion despite his otherwise calm demeanor. Bruce could feel the weight of Logan's scrutiny, making it even harder to keep his nerves in check. “Does Loki have issues with anyone at school? Logan asked, Bruce shook his head, "Not that I'm aware of," he replied. "Loki tends to keep to himself and doesn't really interact much with the other students." Logan frowned, still concerned.

"When Loki received the first letter, was there anyone else around the classroom?" Officer Logan asked, his voice sharp and direct. Bruce thought back to that day, trying to recall the details."No, there was no one around when we arrived," Bruce answered, his voice steady. "We found the letter on his desk, and it seemed like it had been placed there when no one was looking." Officer Wade scribbled something in his notepad, glancing up briefly to gauge Bruce's sincerity. "Before Loki received these letters did he ever mention if he felt like he was being followed or watched?" Wade asked, leaning against the chair. Bruce nodded, "Yes, Loki did mention feeling like he was being watched a few times. He brushed it off as paranoia,” Officer Logan's expression hardened, and he exchanged a knowing glance with Officer Wade."Did he ever mention feeling like he was being followed?" Wade asked, his eyes narrowing. Bruce shook his head. "No, he never said anything about that. Just the sense of being watched, which he always dismissed." Logan made a few notes and Wade asked, "When you saw the letter, what did you think?" We thought it was a prank from one of our classmates; we even made fun of it," Bruce said, laughing weakly. "But now, seeing how serious things have gotten, I wish we had paid more attention."

"Can you recall any specific details about the letter? Anything unusual about the handwriting, the paper, or even the envelope?" Wade asked. Bruce shook his head. "I didn't get to see the letter, but I did see the envelope," he explained carefully. "The envelope was a plain off-white color with no address or name, and it was sealed with a wax stamp that had intricate, almost ancient designs." He tried to recall any details, but he came out empty-handed. Logan asked, "Are you sure you don't remember anything else?" Bruce shook his head no. Wade thought about the handwriting and decided to ask, "Do you know anyone who is interested in calligraphy?" he asked. Bruce raised an eyebrow, surprised by the question. Logan said, "Your friend Stark mentioned that you were interested in calligraphy. Do you know anyone else who might be interested?"

"I don't understand what calligraphy has to do with this," Bruce said, still confused. Logan sighed as he leaned further into the chair. "The person who sent these letters writes in calligraphy," he said “ and we want to know if there's anyone who is interested in this kind of handwriting.”

Bruce was surprised he had learned about calligraphy but never perfected the writing. He had tried so hard, but he ended up giving up. Despite his initial enthusiasm, the intricate strokes and precise techniques proved too challenging. Bruce shuffled on his chair and said, "I was interested, but I gave up when I saw how hard it was." Steve, our other friend, took a class for a hobby, but he too ended up giving up. When he saw how hard it was.” Logan asked, "Why were you interested in learning calligraphy?" Bruce smiled softly, finally relaxing from his nerves. "Well, officer, I've always been interested in historical documents, and I wanted to replicate the elegance of old manuscripts," he explained. "There's something incredibly magical about bringing a piece of history back to life." Wade and Logan both sighed when they saw that Bruce was just a college kid; he didn't seem to hide anything suspicious other than being nervous. Wade would also be nervous if he was being questioned by two intimidating officers. Wade decided to say something else. "Like I said before," Wade said, lacing his fingers together, "this person is really good. It's like they took the time to learn it and later on mastered it." Bruce was surprised; whoever this stalker was, they were really smart to learn this kind of writing. Wade glanced at Bruce and decided to redirect the conversation back to the letters. "We are going to focus on the letters for now. Were there any threats or demands mentioned?" Bruce tried his best to recall any details before answering. " No, Loki never finished reading the first letter to us, so I don't know what else it said. The other two times he received the letter, I wasn't there either. Therefore, I have no idea about the full content of any of the letters.” Bruce said, but then he remembered, "However, I was at the restaurant when Loki received the other letter." Logan leaned forward. "Do you remember what that letter said?" Bruce nodded. "Yes, it mentioned something about visiting Loki at the restaurant and that they were finally face to face for the first time. "And it said something about wanting to be reunited with him," Bruce said, trying hard to remember what else the letter mentioned. Bruce sighed and said, "This stalker knows Loki is sacred; it was even mentioned in the letter." Logan and Wade wrote down the details, and Bruce continued, "Whoever is sending these letters, they know Loki quite well. It's almost as if they have been watching his every move."

Wade nodded. "Yes, that's why we are trying to gather as much information to see who is stalking Loki. We need to ensure his safety and find out who is behind this." Wade glanced down as he continued to write down the details. Logan glanced at Bruce and said, "Do you know if Loki has any other friends?" Bruce furrowed his brow, pondering the question for a moment before replying. “Yes, he used to be friends with this guy Mobious. They were good friends, but they drifted apart over time. Eventually, he moved away, and they lost touch.” Logan's face turned serious, and he asked, "Do you know his full name?" His eyes bore into his, searching for any sign of recognition. No, I don't know his full name. Loki never mentioned it," Bruce said with a sorry look on his face. "I wish I could be more helpful, but that's all the information I have.""It's okay," Wade said as he and Logan stood up, ready to take their leave. It looked like they had to cross Bruce's name off the list of suspects. Bruce stood up as well. "Thank you, Mr. Banner, for cooperating," Wade said, taking Bruce's hand. Bruce chuckled nervously and replied, "Please, just call me Bruce. Mr. Banner is my father." Wade smiled as Logan extended his hand to Bruce, who accepted it with a firm handshake. Bruce shuffled on his feet and said, "I hope you find who is behind these letters." His voice was tinged with genuine concern. Wade put his hat back on and pushed the chair back. "Thank you, Bruce. We hope we find out who it is, and once again, thank you for cooperating," he said with a nod. Bruce watched the two officers leave. He sighed, feeling worried about Loki; whoever this guy was, he was bound to cause more trouble. He just hoped they found out who it was—and soon.

~*~*~*~
“ At first, we thought it was a joke or some prank from a classmate, but then it started to be more serious, Natasha said as she tried to recall any other detail.” Wade sighed and crossed his arms over his chest; he was tired of hearing the same answer. He glanced at Logan, who had the same look on his face, clearly just as frustrated with the lack of information. Wade leaned forward and asked, "By any chance, do you remember if the handwriting seemed unusual in any way? Or the paper or even the envelope.” I do remember the envelope and paper, but I never saw the letter itself. The paper seemed to have a kind of watermark suggesting it was important. The envelope is always a plain, off-white color with no return address," Natasha described. "It's sealed with a wax stamp that has an intricate, almost ancient design on it." Logan watched Natasha for any sign of suspicion; she seemed well-collected, not even an ounce of nervousness crossing her demeanor. Her calmness was almost unsettling, making Logan question if she was hiding something more profound. But then again, she was just a college student, still figuring out her path in life. With so many uncertainties and new experiences ahead, it was unfair to expect her to have all the answers. Logan rubbed his temple; it looked like he had to cross another name off the list of suspects. The investigation seemed to be hitting one dead end after another. But he still had three more people to talk to before he could wrap up his day. He sighed, glancing at his watch, knowing it was going to be a long evening. Wade cleared his throat. "Were you present when Loki received the other two letters?" he asked, his eyes narrowing slightly as he waited for an answer. Natasah shook her head. "No, but I was at the restaurant when he received the other letter," she explained, her brows furrowing with concern. “In the letter, it mentioned that he was there watching his every move.” Logan asked, "Do you know anyone who might have developed an obsession for him?" Nat shook her head. "No, officer, as you may know by now, Loki hasn't had any friends but us. He's always been a bit of a loner."

Wade narrowed his eyes. "When I interviewed Tony and Bruce, they said he was close to this Mobius guy and that they were practically inseparable." He leaned forward, his expression serious. A look crossed her eyes as if she remembered. "Yes, I remember that they were close before we became friends. He would be seen hanging out with him all the time, but like I said, he was a loner before we became friends."

“ So he didn't have any other friends besides him and you guys?” Logan asked. Natasha nodded, "Yeah, pretty much. We were his only friends. Mobius moved away, and Loki hasn't talked to him in a long time." Wade sighed and asked, "By any chance, do you know his full name?" Nat nodded, "Yes, I believe his name was Mobius M. Mobius. I had a few classes with him back in high school, but I never talked to him." Logan jotted down the new information; at least they had his full name now. Well, Miss Romanoff, thank you for cooperating," Wade said, shaking Natasha's hand. Logan also shook her hand, but his eyes never broke from her face. "Have a nice day," Wade said. Natasha smiled, "You too, officers." Natasha let out a small sigh of relief when she saw the officers leave. It felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She finally allowed herself to relax.

~*~*~*~
We have no lead," Logan crumpled. Wade glanced at him and said, "We still have three more kids to interview. Maybe one of them knows about these letters or if they know someone who wants to hurt Loki," Wade said, sliding into the passenger seat. "I guess," Logan mumbled as he slid into the car, pulling the seatbelt across his chest.

~*~*~*~
Logan watched Barton's every move; this kid was just like that Natasha kid. He didn't show any signs of being nervous, his focus unwavering and his actions precise. Logan couldn't help but admire the composure and skill in someone so young. Logan wondered if he had underestimated these kids. What if they were hiding something about these letters? He decided to investigate further, looking for any clues they might have missed. Clint shook his head, "No, I don't know anyone that might want to hurt Loki." He paused, considering the question more deeply. "But that doesn't mean there isn't someone out there with a grudge." Wade nodded and sighed, realizing he wasn't getting anywhere with his current line of questioning. Maybe he should try a different approach. "I've noticed that you seemed to care about Loki," Wade asked. Clint nodded, "Of course I do. He's one of my friends, and I can't bear to think that something might happen to him because of someone who is obsessed with him." Logan raised an eyebrow when he saw the look on the kid. It was as if he not only cared about Loki's safety but also cared about him deeply, almost as if he were in love with him. Logan noticed how Clint's eyes softened whenever Loki's name was mentioned. It was as if all the hardness and tension melted away, replaced by a gentle warmth that spoke volumes about his feelings. Logan knew he couldn't jump to conclusions without investigating first. But then again, Clint was just a kid in college who had a crush on his friend's boyfriend. But just to be on the safe side, he was going to investigate him further. He wanted to ensure there were no hidden motives or potential risks. It was better to be cautious now than to regret it later.

~*~*~*~
“He's in love with him”, Wade said as he watched Logan take out a cigarette. "You can see it in his eyes when we talk about him, the way his gaze softens just a bit." Logan gave a side glance and said, "Do you think he has something to do with the letters and being obsessed with him?" Wade chuckled, "He doesn't seem like the type to get obsessed over someone. He's just a kid, after all." His friend raised an eyebrow, "You'd be surprised how intense young love can be." Wade glanced out the window and said, "Yeah, young love can be surprising. It has a way of catching you off guard and changing your entire perspective. But like I said, he doesn't seem like the type and he wasn't acting suspicious at all. In fact, he was very calm and cooperative throughout the entire situation.” Logan tapped his finger on the steering wheel and said, "I’ll investigate him further just to be on the safe side." Wade chuckled, "Oh come on, Logan, you're always so cautious." Logan shot him a serious look, "Better safe than sorry, Wade." Wade sighs but doesn't say anything. After a minute of silence, he asked, "Do you think young love is dangerous?" Logan kept his eyes on the road, thinking over the question before answering. "It can be dangerous depending on who harbors the feelings," Logan finally answered. "Not everyone knows how to control their emotions, and that can lead to unpredictable outcomes. Emotions like jealousy or anger can lead people to make decisions that they might regret later.” Wade made an "oh" sound at what Logan said, surprised at the answer he had received. He hadn't expected such a candid response and was momentarily at a loss for words.

~*~*~*~
As soon as Wade stepped out of the car he had a bad feeling. The air was thick with an eerie silence, and the hairs on the back of his neck stood up. He glanced around, trying to pinpoint the source of his unease. Maybe he was being paranoid, but he couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching him. Logan slapped his arm and said, "Come on, let's get this over with. We still have to interview these two kids, and then we're done for the day," he said, walking up to the house. His partner nodded, following closely behind even though he felt unease.

~*~*~*~
“Well, Officer, me and my brother weren't there when Loki received the letter. We were stuck in class; the professor wouldn't let us go until we were finished with the projects.” Steve said, "When we got to the room, the atmosphere felt tense." Bucky added, "You could almost cut the tension with a knife; everyone was on edge.” Did you see anything unusual about the letter?" Logan asked. Steve and Bucky shook their heads. "No, Loki didn't show us the letter; he had it crumpled in his hand," Steve replied. "Tony told us about the letter, and we started laughing and making fun of it," Bucky added. Steve shuffled on the chair. "We didn't know at the time it was going to turn serious. If we had paid more attention, maybe Loki wouldn't be receiving these letters now." Logan nodded, but he still couldn't take his eyes off Steve; there was something unsettling about the way he stood so rigidly. It was as if Steve was hiding something, and Logan's instincts told him to stay on guard. Logan glanced at Wade; he hadn't said anything for the past few minutes. "Officer, do you have any questions?" Wade glanced at Logan and smiled thinly. "Umm, no." He had been on edge ever since they arrived. Logan suppressed the urge to roll his eyes; he hated asking questions. This was Wade's job, not his."Okay, kids," Logan said, glancing at the two brothers, "were you present on the day that Loki received the letter at the restaurant?" The brothers exchanged a quick look before nodding in unison."We were all there except for Barton who was running late from football practice," Steve said. Logan sighed, realizing that the Barton kid was telling the truth. However, that still wasn't going to stop him from investigating further. "Do you remember if Loki was talking to someone because in the letter it said they had been close to him and that he had talked to him?" Logan asked. Steve shook his head. "There are so many people who eat at the restaurant, it's hard to keep track of who you talk to." He sighed, clearly frustrated by the lack of suspects. "Officer, why would someone try to harm another person?" Bucky asked. Logan sighed and replied, "There are many reasons, Bucky. It could be due to personal grudges, jealousy, or even mental illness. Or sometimes it could be that the person could be in love with them and they don't acknowledge their feelings until it's too late," Logan said. I've seen it happen more times than I can count."

"So what you're saying is that this someone developed feelings for Loki and has become obsessed?" Bucky asked, his brow furrowing with concern. Logan nodded, "Yes, and it can cause serious problems if it's not handled right away. Ignoring it could lead to even bigger issues down the line." His expression grew serious. "Which is why we are asking if you guys have seen anyone or heard anyone that might be obsessed with Loki," Logan said. Bucky sighed in disappointment; he really wished he could help, but he didn't know anything. "I'm sorry, officers," he said, shaking his head. "I haven't seen anything unusual.” Logan smiled thinly. "It's okay," he said, trying to mask his disappointment. Steve and Bucky both stood up when they saw the two officers rise. "Well, thank you for cooperating," Logan said, taking Steve's hand first. Logan didn't break eye contact with Steve as he tried to figure him out, but he sighed, maybe he was reading too much into this kid. He decided to give Steve the benefit of the doubt, hoping his instincts weren't wrong. After all, he was just a kid in college.

Wade shook both of the brothers' hands, offering a polite smile. They bid their goodbyes. Logan was disappointed in the lack of clues but was still determined to investigate these kids in case he missed something. His instincts told him there was more to the story than met the eye.

~*~*~*~
"What the fuck was your problem?" Logan asked as he glanced at Wade, who chuckled nervously. "Sorry, I was a little nervous," Wade said. "I had a bad feeling, like someone was watching me from the shadows." Logan rolled his eyes. "You are so dumb; you left me to do all the questioning. This is your job, not mine," he muttered, frustration evident in his voice. Wade mumbled, "At least you finished these lines of questioning and we could finally go home." Logan shook his head, still annoyed. "Yeah, well, let's just hope we didn't miss anything important," he replied, feeling the weight of unresolved tension."I was paying attention, okay?" Wade said, annoyed. "I was just on edge and I want to get out of here as soon as possible," he added as he slid into the passenger seat. Logan sighed, starting the engine, and said, "I've decided to investigate everyone." Wade glanced at Logan and nodded, "I was going to say the same thing. Maybe there's something we missed." Logan glanced at Wade, his expression softening slightly. "Let's just hope everything turns out okay with these kids," he said, the concern in his voice evident. Wade nodded in agreement, "Yeah, let's just hope," he said, still uneasy.

Chapter Text

"When all this is over, we should go to Malibu," Tony said, running a hand over Loki's thigh. Loki looked at him, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "I'd like that," he replied softly, leaning into Tony's touch. "Just you and me, away from all the chaos," Tony continued, his voice filled with longing. Loki nodded, his eyes reflecting the same desire for peace. "It sounds perfect," he whispered, resting his head on Tony's shoulder.  Tony's hand moved gently, tracing patterns on Loki's thigh as if trying to etch the promise of serenity into their future. "We'll make it happen," Tony murmured, determination mingling with the tenderness in his voice. "No more threats, no more fear—just us and the quiet moments we've been longing for."

Loki's eyes softened as he whispered back, "And with the stalker behind bars, we can finally breathe easy." Tony nodded, feeling the weight of their shared burden lift ever so slightly. "Maybe we could get a house," Loki suggested, a hopeful smile playing on his lips. "Somewhere quiet, where we can start fresh and build a life together."  Tony shuffled in the bed, pulling Loki closer as if to solidify their shared dream. "A house by the beach," he murmured, his voice filled with warmth. "Where we can watch the sunset every evening and wake up to the sound of the waves." Loki's smile widened, his eyes sparkling with the image of their future. "We could go swimming and have picnics on the shore," he added, his voice brimming with excitement. Tony chuckled softly, pressing a tender kiss to Loki's forehead. "We'll do all that and more," he promised.

"You know what else we're missing in the picture?" Tony said. Loki raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Kids, we could have kids," Tony said, making Loki laugh. "Why are you laughing?" Tony asked, a hint of curiosity in his tone. Loki grinned, shaking his head slightly. "It's just that I never imagined you, of all people, suggesting we have kids," he replied, amusement dancing in his eyes. Tony shrugged with a smile. "Just imagine them running around, building sandcastles, chasing seagulls, and collecting seashells," he said, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "And the most important thing—those little footprints on the sand, marking the memories we create together."  Loki chuckled, making Tony pout. "What's so funny now?" Tony asked, his tone playful yet curious.  Loki's laughter subsided as he teased, "Did you forget that you hate kids? You avoid them like the plague, Tony." He smirked, watching Tony's expression shift."I do, but with you, I think I could learn to love them," Tony replied, his voice softening as he looked into Loki's eyes. "Besides, they'll have your charm and my genius—what's not to love?" Loki's laughter filled the room, a sound that Tony had come to cherish.  “Well, if they're anything like you, they'll be a handful," Loki said, his voice filled with affection. "But I think we could handle it together." Tony smiled, feeling a warmth spread through him at the thought of a future with Loki. "Yeah, together we can handle anything," he said, his voice steady with conviction. "Let's make that dream a reality." Loki leaned in, his eyes sparkling with mischief and love, and kissed Tony softly on the lips. The room seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them and the promise of a shared future.

 Loki moved on top of Tony, straddling his lap as they deepened their kiss, their breath mingling and hearts beating in sync. Tony's hand moved higher up Loki's thigh, his touch both reassuring and electrifying. "We'll start planning as soon as this is over," he promised, his eyes locked onto Loki's. Loki nodded, his breath hitching slightly as he whispered, "I can't wait.” Tony's hand moved up and unbuttoned the shirt Loki had stolen from him, his fingers lingering on each button. Loki's breath caught in his throat, the intimacy of the moment deepening. "I've always loved seeing you in my clothes," Tony murmured, a playful grin forming on his lips. Loki chuckled, the sound sending a shiver down Tony’s spine. "Then I'll just have to keep borrowing them," he said, his voice dripping with playful defiance. Tony's grin widened as he leaned in closer, their foreheads touching, and whispered, "As long as you promise to return them like this."   Loki sighed as he felt Tony kiss his chest, the warmth of his lips sending waves of pleasure through him. All he wanted was for Tony to finish taking off his shirt, craving the closeness and the touch that followed.

"Only if you promise to keep making me feel this way," Loki whispered, his voice trembling with emotion. Tony's eyes sparkled with affection as he replied, "That's a promise I'll never break." 

Tony let his head fall onto the pillow as he let out a sigh and closed his eyes, his mind racing about what Hill might discover if one of his friends turned out to be a stalker. He didn't know what he'd do in that scenario.  The thought of someone close betraying him sent a shiver down his spine.  He kept asking himself how  he would react, how he would confront someone he trusted. Would he be able to forgive, or would the betrayal be too much to bear? The uncertainty gnawed at him, threatening to overshadow the tender moment he shared with Loki.  Loki cupped his cheek, bringing him back to the present and grounding him with a look of pure affection. "Stay with me," Loki whispered, his voice soft and reassuring, pulling him away from the dark thoughts. He took a deep breath, allowing himself to be comforted by Loki's unwavering presence. "Focus on us right now," Loki murmurs, his thumb gently stroking Tony's skin. Tony nodded and pressed a soft kiss to Loki's wrist, savoring the warmth of his touch. "You're right," he murmured, "let's just enjoy this moment."  He continued to unbutton his shirt. Once the buttons were undone, the shirt slid down Loki's shoulders and pooled at his elbows. 

 Tony's eyes roamed over the newly exposed skin, his breath hitching at the sight. "You're perfect," Tony whispered, his voice filled with awe and admiration.  He placed a kiss on the new tattoo that Loki got on his collarbone, an infinity symbol intertwined with a heart. The design was one Tony had suggested, a symbol of their endless love and unbreakable bond. "It suits you," Tony said softly, his lips brushing against the inked skin, "just like us." Loki grabbed Tony's arm, turning his hand over to reveal the same tattoo inked on his wrist. "Now we're truly bound together," Loki murmured, a smile playing on his lips as he pressed a kiss to Tony's matching design. Tony's eyes filled with emotion as he looked at the identical tattoos that now adorned both of their bodies. "It's like a promise," he said softly, his voice trembling slightly. Loki's eyes met his, filled with the same depth of love and commitment. Tony's heart swelled with an overwhelming sense of belonging and connection. He leaned in, capturing Loki's lips in a tender kiss that spoke volumes of his devotion. "Forever and always," Tony whispered against Loki's mouth, sealing their promise with every beat of his heart. "Forever and always," Loki echoed back, his voice steady and filled with emotion. The two held each other close, knowing that their bond was unbreakable.

~*~*~*~

"Miss Cupcake!" Loki shouted again as he filled the food bowl, his voice tinged with worry. Frigga came down the stairs and frowned, scanning the room for any sign of the elusive cat. "She was just here this morning," Frigga said softly, a hint of concern in her eyes. "She's probably just hiding somewhere," Frigga reassured, though her eyes betrayed her own concern.  Loki sighed, feeling a knot of anxiety tighten in his chest. "It's unusual for her to be hiding for this long," he said, his brow furrowing with worry. "She usually comes running the moment she hears the food hitting the bowl."   The door opened, and Thor stepped inside the house, catching the tail end of their conversation. "Maybe Fenrir scared her away," he suggested, kissing his mother on the cheek before adding, "You know how playful he can get." Frigga nodded thoughtfully, but the worry in her eyes remained. Loki rolled his eyes and huffed, "I told you to keep that mutt away from my cat, Thor. Miss Cupcake doesn't appreciate his rough play." Thor shrugged, a sheepish grin on his face, "I'll go check the backyard, maybe she found a hiding spot out there." Loki fought the urge to throw something at Thor's head. "You better find her," he said angrily, glaring at his brother. "If anything happens to Miss Cupcake, you'll have more than Fenrir to worry about." Thor chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Don't worry, brother. Miss Cupcake is probably hiding somewhere." Loki's glare intensified, making Thor quickly head toward the backyard in search of the elusive feline.  Thor opened the door, "Stupid cat," he mumbled under his breath as he stepped outside. Loki's sharp ears caught the remark, and he clenched his fists, trying to keep his temper in check. "Just find her, Thor," he muttered, his voice filled with barely suppressed anger. Frigga placed a calming hand on Loki's shoulder, "We'll find her, don't worry." 

 Loki sighed angrily, feeling the weight of his frustration. "How do you expect me not to worry? That cat was a present from Tony," Loki snapped, his eyes flashing with a mix of frustration and fear. Frigga squeezed his shoulder gently, trying to offer some comfort. "We'll all look for her together, Loki," she said softly. "All the barking and running around must've scared her away," Loki said, his voice tinged with frustration. "She's not used to all this chaos." Frigga nodded in understanding, "Let's search every corner carefully; she's bound to be somewhere close." Loki's eyes softened and his head dipped slightly when he saw the look on his mother's face. "I'm sorry, Mother. I shouldn't have talked to you that way," he murmured, guilt evident in his tone. Frigga smiled gently, brushing a strand of hair from his face, "It's alright, my dear," she reassured him, her voice soothing. "I know you're worried, but we will find her together."

 Loki hoped with all his heart that they would find Miss Cupcake soon; the cat meant so much to him, being a beloved gift from Tony. He couldn't bear the thought of losing her. As they split up to search, Loki whispered a silent prayer, hoping she was safe and just hiding somewhere nearby.  Tears welled up in Loki's eyes when he couldn't see her, the fear of losing Miss Cupcake gnawing at his heart. They spent hours searching for her, combing through every nook and cranny of the house. Even Odin joined them in the search, his usually stern demeanor softening as he saw the distress in his son's eyes.  They extended their search to the neighborhood, calling out her name as they checked under porches and behind bushes. Even Fandral joined them, his usual bravado replaced with genuine concern as he helped look for Miss Cupcake.

 Loki couldn't even muster his usual annoyance with Fandral, who was always chasing him like a lost puppy. Instead, he was grateful for the extra pair of hands and the shared urgency in finding Miss Cupcake. But the cat was nowhere to be found, and as the sun began to set, a sense of hopelessness started to creep in. Loki's heart ached with each passing minute, the fear of losing Miss Cupcake becoming almost unbearable.  They decided to head back home when the street lights began to flicker on, casting long shadows on the empty sidewalks. Loki's eyes scanned the surroundings one last time, hoping for a glimpse of the familiar feline shape.

~*~*~*~

 He ran a hand through his shoulder-length hair, feeling the weight of worry pressing down on him. His mother ran a gentle hand over his back, offering what little comfort she could as they waited for Thor to return with any news. "We'll find her, Loki," she whispered soothingly, though her heart ached at seeing her son's distress. Loki rocked back and forth in the chair as he chewed his thumb nail, his anxiety growing with each passing minute. "I just can't stand this waiting," he muttered, glancing at the door in anticipation of Thor's return. Frigga continued to stroke his back gently, hoping to ease his tension, "Patience, Loki. Thor will find her." Odin sighed, feeling helpless as he watched his son's anguish; he wished he could do more to bring peace to Loki. He understood that the only thing that could truly calm his son was finding Miss Cupcake safe and sound.  The door opened, and all three heads snapped towards it.  Loki shot up to his feet, eyes wide with hope as Thor stepped in. A look of sadness was evident in Thor's eyes as he shook his head, "I couldn't find her." Loki's heart sank, and he felt the weight of despair settling in. He slumped back into the chair, covering his face with his hands as tears streamed down his cheeks. Frigga and Odin exchanged a worried glance, their concern for Loki growing with each passing moment. 

 Thor could only watch his brother cry, feeling helpless and heartbroken. He wanted to offer comfort, but the words seemed to choke in his throat. He watched as his mother knelt beside him, her voice soft and soothing, "Loki, we will not give up. Miss Cupcake is out there, and we will keep searching until we find her." She gently pulled his hands away from his face, looking into his tear-filled eyes with unwavering determination.  It broke her heart to see her son so desolate, his small shoulders shaking with each sob. She wished she could do more to ease his pain, but for now, all she could offer was her steadfast resolve and a promise to keep searching.

~*~*~*~

Tears rolled down his cheek as he told Tony the news, his voice barely a whisper.  Tony cupped Loki's cheeks gently, "Hey, it's okay babe," he whispered soothingly. "I'll search for her and check the pound shop again, just in case Thor missed something." Loki sniffled, "I hope we find her. You already know how much she means to me; she was a gift from you." Tony's eyes softened, and he pressed a gentle kiss to Loki's forehead. "We'll find her, I promise.”  Loki hugged Tony tightly, his sobs muffled against Tony's chest. Tony wrapped his arms around Loki, holding him close as he continued to cry. "We'll find her, Loki," Tony reassured, his voice filled with determination and love. Loki clung to that promise, hoping with all his heart that they would find Miss Cupcake soon. He couldn't imagine life without her, and Tony's reassurance was the only thing keeping him calm.

~*~*~*~

Loki paced the room back and forth, running a hand through his hair as he glanced at the box and letter on his bed. The letter had arrived earlier that day—another message from his obsessed stalker.  He was never going to catch a break, and with the disappearance of his cat, his anxiety was on edge as if he was going to break. The stalker's messages had been relentless, each one more unsettling than the last, and now with Miss Cupcake missing, Loki felt his world spiraling out of control.  He wanted his life back—the once peaceful existence where his biggest worry was deciding what book to read next. Now, every creak in his house made his heart race, and he longed for the days when Miss Cupcake would curl up in his lap, purring contentedly. He missed the simpler times when Tony would come home with bouquets of flowers for their mother and sister, even though they didn’t particularly like Tony. They would still accept his flowers with smiles, because they knew how much it meant to Loki.  Those were the days Loki longed for now. He picked up the letter with trembling hands, dreading what new torment it might contain. He felt bile rise in his throat as he read the letter, the words sending chills down his spine. 

Loki, 

My beautiful boy, I stopped by your house yesterday and I saw the police in the front yard. I can't believe that you called the police on me. Did you really think they could keep me away from you? They won't be able to keep you safe from me forever. I had a gift for you. It was something special, but when I saw the police, I hid in the shadows, watching their every move. They think they can protect you, but they underestimate my resolve. Remember, Loki, I'm always closer than you think. They didn't see me, no one ever does, but if they do, they forget who I am. You wanna know why?  Because I'm always hiding in the shadows; they keep me safe.  Rest assured, baby, I will always be close.  There's one more thing you need to know: I see everything. You can't see me, but I am always watching you, every move you make, every tear you shed.  You have pissed me off, my beautiful boy; don't expect me to play nice after this. You've pushed me too far, and now you'll see what I'm truly capable of. So be careful, Loki, because my patience has run out."

Your Secret Admirer 

 Loki crumpled the letter in his hand, his knuckles turning white from the pressure, his fear growing. His head snapped towards the door when he heard knocking, heart pounding wildly in his chest. "Loki, can I come in?" his sister's voice called softly from the other side. He shoved the letter into his pocket and threw the box in his closet before opening the door. Trying to mask his anxiety, he greeted her with a forced smile."Hey, hon, is everything okay?" she asked as she glanced around his room, her eyes narrowing slightly at the disarray. Loki nodded quickly, trying to hide the turmoil brewing inside him. "Yeah, just a bit overwhelmed with everything," he replied, hoping she wouldn't press further."Don't worry, they'll find Miss Cupcake, okay?" she said, patting Loki's cheek gently. "Thor, Tony, and Dad are doing everything they can." Loki managed a weak smile, nodding as a small flicker of hope ignited within him.But the feeling of dread wouldn't leave him; the words echoed in his head, refusing to be silenced. 

Hela's voice broke through his thoughts as she said, "I'll be leaving soon; my shift got changed, and they want me to start early." Loki blinked, trying to focus on her words.  He finally saw her EMS uniform and a dreaded feeling settled in the pit of his stomach. He would have to stay home alone, and the thought of it made his anxiety spike even higher.  "Could you stay just a bit longer, Hela?" Loki asked, his voice trembling slightly. "I don't think I can handle being alone right now."  Sadness filled her eyes. "I wish I could stay a little bit longer," Hela said softly, "but I'll get in trouble if I'm late for my shift." She gently squeezed his hand, trying to offer some comfort."Mom and Dad will be home in an hour," she reassured him. Loki nodded, trying to steady his breathing, but the fear still clawed at his insides. "Just hang in there, okay? Everything will be alright," Hela added. "I'll call you during my break, alright?" she promised, giving him a reassuring smile. "Just keep your phone close, and if you need anything, don't hesitate to text or call me." Loki nodded, feeling a small measure of comfort from her words, even as the weight of the letter in his pocket seemed to grow heavier.  She kissed his cheek and turned to leave, the sound of her footsteps echoing in the hallway followed by the door opening and closing.  Then the sound of her car starting reached his ears, followed by the gentle hum as she drove away. The silence that enveloped the house felt suffocating, amplifying his sense of isolation. Loki's eyes darted back to the closet where he had hidden the box, the unsettling thoughts returning with a vengeance.

~*~*~*~

Loki ran down the stairs to check if all the windows and doors were locked, his anxiety growing with each step. The unsettling thoughts buzzing in his mind made him feel like he was lurking just outside. He shut the blinds and double-checked that the doors were locked, his heart pounding in his chest. Paranoia gnawed at him, making him feel as if unseen eyes were watching his every move. Taking a deep breath, he tried to calm his racing mind, reminding himself that he was safe, at least for now. “ I can't believe that you called the police on me.”  Those words circled around his head, fueling his anxiety even more.  His heart raced faster inside his chest, his stomach churning; he wasn't sure if it was fear or adrenaline driving him to the brink, but it didn't matter. The words from the note echoed in his mind, amplifying his dread: " I can't believe you called the police on me."

 He ran to the kitchen and grabbed a knife, just in case. They were just words on paper, but there was something chilling about that sentence. This was more than a warning; it was a threat, far more menacing than anything else he had written."You fucking bastard!" Loki screamed, ripping the letter into pieces. Tears ran down his cheeks as fear turned into rage, his hands trembling as he clutched the knife tighter. The emotions surged through him, leaving him breathless and desperate for a way to regain control of his life. “ My beautiful boy, I stopped by your house yesterday and I saw the police in the front yard. I can't believe that you called the police on me.”

 The police had assured him they would protect him, even offering to station an officer in front of his house for comfort, but he had stupidly declined. Now, he regretted that decision, realizing he might have underestimated the danger he was in. The sense of vulnerability was overwhelming, making him wish he had accepted their help when he had the chance. Then he remembered Logan had said if he changed his mind on wanting protection, he could call them. He patted down his pockets, reaching for his phone to dial Logan's phone number that he had memorized by heart. With trembling fingers, he pressed the call button, praying Logan would answer quickly. They didn't see me, no one ever does, but if they do, they forget who I am.”  Loki moaned in distress as he hung up. That fucker was right—this creep was watching his every move. He was probably watching him right now, and calling the police might only escalate the situation. "You fucking bastard! Is this what you fucking want?" Loki threw the phone at the door, watching it shatter into pieces. The sound of the crash seemed to punctuate his rage, but it did nothing to alleviate the fear gripping his heart. Desperation clawed at him as he realized he was truly alone in this terrifying game of cat and mouse.

“There's one more thing you need to know: I see everything. You can't see me, but I am always watching you, every move you make, every tear you shed.” 

 Loki's body felt heavy, and his knees gave out, his body hitting the ground with a thud. Never in his life had he felt this weak and powerless, the weight of the threat crushing him from the inside. His vision blurred with tears as he lay there, paralyzed by fear, knowing that every moment he spent on the floor was another moment he was being watched. “ You can't see me, but I am always watching you,”   Loki's mind wandered back to the black box in his room that was hidden in the closet. He wondered what was inside and how it might make him feel if he opened it.  All he wanted was his life back and to be in control again, to feel the strength he once had. “ don't expect me to play nice after this.”  

"Don't expect me to play nice too," Loki whispered, his voice barely audible through the lump in his throat.  He closed his eyes, wishing desperately to forget everything and pretend this was just a nightmare he would soon wake up from. But the weight of reality pressed down on him, making it impossible to escape the truth.

~*~*~*~

Tony cursed for the tenth time as he dialed Loki's number, his frustration mounting with each ring that went unanswered. "Come on, Loki, pick up," he muttered under his breath, pacing the room. When the voicemail picked up again, Tony punched the wall in anger, knowing something was terribly wrong.  He grabbed his jacket and keys and bolted out of his bedroom, almost crashing into Jarvis. "Master Tony, is everything alright?" the butler asked."Sorry, Jarvis, but I need to go and check on Loki," Tony replied, his voice tense with urgency. He didn't wait for a response as he rushed to the garage. 

 Tony raced down the street, his car nearly hitting 90 miles per hour as he navigated through the traffic. His mind was a whirlwind of worry and anger, each passing second amplifying his fear for Loki's safety. He had to get there in time, no matter the cost. He made it to Loki's house in a matter of seconds, the tires screeching as he pulled up to the driveway.  Tony shoved the key into the lock and opened the door, grateful that Thor had given him a spare.  He stepped inside, immediately sensing the tension hanging in the air. "Loki?" he called out softly, scanning the room for any sign of his troubled boyfriend. He walked up to see Loki sitting on the floor, surrounded by the shattered remnants of his phone and ripped pieces of paper. In his trembling hand, he clutched a knife, his knuckles white from the strain.  Tears welled up in Tony's eyes as he took in the heartbreaking scene. "Loki, please, put the knife down," he pleaded, his voice cracking with emotion. He slowly approached, his heart aching at the sight of the man he loved in such despair.  Tony carefully pried the knife out of Loki's hand and threw it to the other side of the room, not caring where it landed as long as it was far from Loki. He dropped to his knees and he immediately pulled Loki into his arms, holding him tightly as Loki's sobs wracked his body. "It's okay, I'm here," Tony whispered, trying to offer as much comfort as he could. "Shh, it's going to be alright, I promise," he murmured softly, gently rocking Loki back and forth.  He pressed his cheek against Loki's head as he continued to rock him, feeling the dampness of his tears soak into his skin. 

 He clenched his jaw, seething with anger. This fucker had pushed Loki to his breaking point.  He had never ever seen Loki this way—so vulnerable, so broken. It made his anger burn even hotter, knowing that the fucker had caused this pain. "It's okay, I'm here," he said repeatedly, kissing Loki's forehead gently. Loki's sobs began to quiet as he buried his face in Tony's chest, seeking solace in his embrace.  He closed his eyes, wishing they could return to their own life where nothing like this had happened. The thought of their peaceful days together filled him with a desperate hope that they could find a way back to that normalcy.  Just yesterday, they were making plans for their future, living by the sea with miniature versions of themselves running around, building sandcastles. But now, that dream seemed almost fragile, breakable, as if it could shatter at any moment. Tony's mind raced, filled with a burning determination to find the person responsible for Loki's torment. "This fucker is going to pay," he muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing with resolve. He held Loki even tighter, silently vowing to protect him and make things right. 

Chapter Text

"We can't leave him home alone," Thor whispered, running a hand through his blond hair. "Someone needs to stay with him," Thor said, glancing at his parents with a concerned expression. "What if something happens while no one is with him?" His voice was tinged with worry. Odin sighed, crossing his arms and shaking his head in agreement with his son.  He glanced at Tony, who was pacing nervously across the room. "I know," Odin finally said quietly, his voice heavy with concern. “But what other options do we have?" Odin asked.  Frigga shuffled on the chair as she replied, "I can ask for the day off; I'll talk to the head doctor and tell him I have a family emergency." She looked at Odin and Thor, hoping they would agree with her plan.  Thor looked relieved, but Tony still seemed unconvinced, stopping his pacing to stare at the floor. "What if they say no?" Tony muttered, his voice tinged with anxiety.  Frigga smiled sadly and said, "I have enough PTO. I'm sure they'll say yes." She reached out to squeeze Tony's hand reassuringly, trying to ease his worries.

"Besides," Frigga said, "Loki will be fine; I'll be with him the whole time." She reassured them. Tony let out a breath, his shoulders relaxing slightly, but the worry in his eyes remained.  Odin glanced at Tony and could see the genuine concern in his eyes. It was clear that Tony really cared for Loki, especially after the recent incident. Without hesitation, Tony had immediately called them to report what had happened, showing his dedication to keeping Loki safe."I hope the police find out who it is and why they're doing this," Odin said solemnly. "We can't afford any more surprises," he added, his voice heavy with worry."Tony cleared his throat as he pulled out a chair and sat down. "The police aren't the only ones investigating," he whispered, causing all three to frown in confusion. "What do you mean?" Odin asked, his eyebrows knitting together. Tony leaned in closer, lowering his voice even more. "I've enlisted the help of a private investigator, someone with expertise in cases like these," Tony revealed. "She works for S.H.I.E.L.D. and has a remarkable track record in uncovering the truth."  Frigga, Odin, and Thor exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of surprise and cautious optimism. "Do you think this investigator can help us?" Thor asked, his voice tinged with hope. Tony nodded firmly, "If anyone can get to the bottom of this, it's her."  Frigga's eyes widened at the news but then softened with understanding. "Thank you, Tony," she said gently. "Knowing that someone experienced is on the case gives me a bit of peace." She drummed her finger on the coffee cup. "A private investigator? That's a smart move, Tony," she said, nodding approvingly. "We need all the help we can get to ensure Loki's safety."

 Thor and Odin also nodded in approval, appreciating Tony's proactive approach. "Good thinking, Tony," Thor remarked, his voice full of gratitude. Odin added, "Let's hope this brings us closer to finding the truth and keeping Loki safe."  Tony leaned back in his chair as he ran a hand through his hair. "I just want Loki safe," he murmured, his voice tinged with desperation. Frigga reached out to squeeze his hand reassuringly, "We all do, Tony; we'll get through this together." Tony nodded, feeling a bit more reassured by their support. "Thank you, all of you," he said quietly. "Loki means a lot to me, and I won't rest until we know he's out of danger." Odin finally understood. Tony's concern for Loki went beyond mere obligation; it was rooted in genuine care and loyalty. This realization made Odin respect Tony even more, knowing they shared a common goal of protecting someone they both deeply valued.

~*~*~*~

Frigga knocked softly on the door before entering, carrying a tray with food. "Hey honey, I brought some food," she said, placing the tray on the nightstand.  Loki looked up from his bed, a grateful smile spreading across his face as he saw his mother. Frigga sat down beside him, gently brushing a strand of hair from his forehead. "How are you feeling today, my son?" she asked softly, her eyes filled with concern and love."I'm fine, Mother," Loki replied, though his voice was still weak. "Just a bit tired." Frigga smiled warmly. "I've decided to take some time off to be with you," she said, her voice soothing.  Loki's eyes widened in surprise, but a hint of relief washed over his features.  Frigga continued,"I've already talked to Dr. Heimdall, and he said it was fine," she reassured him, her voice full of calm determination. "You don't have to do that, Mother," he protested weakly, though his expression betrayed his gratitude. Frigga shook her head gently, her smile unwavering. "Nonsense, Loki. Your well-being is my priority, and nothing is more important to me than being here for you." Loki's eyes softened as he gazed at her, the weight of his worries momentarily lifting. "Thank you, Mother," he whispered, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. Frigga leaned in and kissed his forehead, her heart swelling with love for her son.

~*~*~*~

"Hey, mind if I join you?" Tony said, entering Loki's room with a tentative smile. Loki's eyes lit up at the sight of Tony, and he nodded. "Of course, Tony," he replied, his voice gaining a bit of strength.  Tony sat down beside Loki and, with a tender smile, leaned in and kissed his lips softly. Loki's eyes fluttered closed, and he returned the kiss with a gentle fervor, feeling a warm sense of comfort and reassurance wash over him. "I’m glad you okay," Tony whispered, his forehead resting against Loki's."I'm glad you're here with me," Loki murmured, his hand reaching up to gently caress Tony's cheek. "You always know how to make me feel better."  Tony smiled, his eyes reflecting the love he had for Loki. "That's because you mean the world to me," he said softly, his voice filled with unwavering devotion. He held Loki's hand tightly, promising silently to stay by his side no matter what.  Loki made room on the bed, patting the space beside him invitingly. Tony took the hint and climbed in, wrapping an arm around Loki's shoulders. They lay there in comfortable silence, drawing strength from each other's presence. Tony closed his eyes, thinking back to the incident that had brought them to this moment.  He wished he had gotten to Loki faster; the sight that had greeted him had broken his heart. Tony had never felt so helpless as he did in that moment, vowing to never let it happen again. "I should have been there sooner," he murmured, his voice tinged with regret. Loki turned his head slightly, meeting Tony's gaze with understanding eyes. "But you still came because you knew deep down something wasn't right, Tony," he reassured, his voice soft and forgiving. "And that's what matters,”Loki reassured him softly. "That's what matters most to me." Tony nodded, feeling the weight of his guilt lift slightly, and he pressed a gentle kiss to Loki's temple, grateful for the chance to be there now.

~*~*~*~

Tony raised an eyebrow when he saw a file being slid towards him. "Some files I did of everyone when I was investigating," Hill said, her expression serious. "These contain all their whereabouts and some medical records I investigated," Hill continued, her tone matter-of-fact.  Tony took it and opened the folder, raising an eyebrow at the contents. "Why the medical records?" he asked, curiosity piqued. Hill shrugged, "To see if they have any mental illnesses or conditions that might affect their behavior." 

"How much did you investigate?" he asked, his eyebrow still raised. "I only told you to track their movements, but this seems far more detailed." Hill met his gaze steadily. "I went deeper to ensure there were no hidden threats, Tony. We can't afford to overlook anything. Besides," Hill added, a hint of a smirk on her red lips, "when someone asks me to investigate, I investigate everything, not just their every move," she replied confidently. "I believe in leaving no stone unturned, that isn't my style, especially with subjects this critical." Tony nodded, appreciating her thoroughness as he continued to scan through the detailed reports. Tony's eyes widened, and he glanced up at Hill. "Steve and Bucky aren't brothers?" he asked, flipping back through the pages to double-check. Hill nodded, a smile playing on her lips."That's correct," she confirmed. "I was shocked too when I first found out. Their bond is so strong, it's easy to assume they're related by blood." 

"Steve Grant Rogers," Tony read out loud, noting the full name for the first time. "And James Buchanan Barnes," he continued, glancing at another page. "They were both adopted by Peggy Carter," Hill explained. "That’s why their connection runs so deep; they grew up together under Peggy's care."  Tony was at a loss for words as he absorbed the new information.  He glanced at the other files that had his friends' names and photos, realizing just how many secrets had been kept.  Tony chuckled as he closed the folder, shaking his head in disbelief. "You know, Hill, just when I think I've got everyone figured out, something like this pops up." Hill smiled knowingly, "That's what keeps things interesting, doesn't it?" Tony leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "I suppose it does," he admitted, tapping the folder lightly against his palm. "Makes me wonder what other secrets are still out there, waiting to be uncovered." Tony sighed and glanced at Hill, realizing they were getting off topic. "While you were investigating," Tony said, "did you find out if anyone was acting suspicious?"  Hill shook her head. "Unfortunately no, everyone was acting normal. It seems like whoever is behind this is very good at covering their tracks or they know they're being followed," Hill said, her eyes narrowing. "That would explain the lack of suspicious activity." Tony frowned, considering the possibility, and then nodded. He let out a frustrated sigh, rubbing his temples. "It's like we're chasing shadows," Tony muttered. 

"What about this Mobius guy? What did you find out about him?"  Hill took a sip from her coffee as she replied, "He's still living in Canada; he hasn't left the country in years. "At 19, he got married and recently had a son named Kevin,” she added. Tony raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Interesting," he mused. "He's even working as a bureaucrat for the Canadian government," Hill said, setting her coffee down. Tony's expression changed to one of curiosity. "A bureaucrat, huh? It seems like he's settled into a quiet, stable life," Tony murmured. Hill continued. "Ever since he left, he hasn’t contacted Loki or anyone else. But then again, he was a loner in high school—Loki was his only friend." Tony nodded. "I remember he was really close to Loki, but Mobius stopped being his friend after I started dating Loki," Tony said. Hill raised an eyebrow. "That must have caused some tension," she noted. "It did," Tony admitted, "but I never thought it would push him to cut ties completely." Tony chuckled, "You know, I always suspected Mobius had a crush on Loki." Hill smirked, "That would explain a lot, wouldn’t it?" Tony nodded, still smiling, "Yeah, it would make sense why he distanced himself." Hill cleared her throat, bringing Tony back to the present.  "Anyway," she said, steering the conversation back to the matter at hand, "you don't have to worry about Mobius being the stalker or your friends.” Tony sighed, relieved to have one less complication to deal with. "That's good to know," he said, running a hand through his hair. "Now we just need to figure out who actually is behind all this."  Hill sighed as she said, "Tony, like I said, no one is the stalker. I even followed the two officers, and they seemed to be doing their job properly." Tony frowned, feeling the frustration building up again. "So, if it's not my friends, then who the fuck is sending these letters to Loki?"

 Hill shook her head, exasperated. "Tony, I don't know either. I've already looked into all your friends, and nothing suspicious came up." Tony clenched his fists, feeling the weight of the unknown pressing down on him."We're chasing a ghost here," he muttered, the frustration evident in his voice. "There's no trail, no clues, just these damn letters." Hill nodded, sharing his exasperation. "We need to think outside the box, Tony; there has to be something we're missing." Tony tapped his finger on the table as he replied, "I need you to look into everyone again, Hill. I need you to look into them carefully—maybe we missed something. I have a feeling that someone from my friends is obsessed with Loki, and I don't want to take any chances." Hill sighed, shaking his head. "Tony, I've already gone through everyone twice. No one from your circle seems to have any unusual interest in Loki." Tony frowned, unwilling to let go of his hunch.

"He received another letter," Tony said, showing Hill the ripped paper he had taped back together. Hill's eyes widened as she inspected the letter. "He has threatened him, Hill," Tony said, pointing to the menacing words. "He's watching Loki's every move, and we need to find out who it is before it's too late." Hill nodded, her expression turning serious."I need you to look into them again, and I also need you to investigate Loki's workplace," Tony said, his voice firm.  "Maybe someone from his job is obsessed with him, and we just haven't noticed it yet." Hill nodded, "I'll look into your friends again and check out Loki's workplace.”  

"Before I forget, I want you to look into this Fandral guy," Tony said, “There's something about him that doesn't sit right with me." Hill raised an eyebrow but nodded, making a note to dig deeper into Fandral's background. "But he's so charming," Hill said, glancing at Tony. Tony rolled his eyes as he put his sunglasses back on. "Charming or not, we can't afford to overlook anything," he replied, his tone leaving no room for debate. “I don’t care how charming he seems; anyone close to Loki has to be considered a suspect.” Tony added. Hill sighed, knowing Tony was right. "Don't worry, I'll look into him more thoroughly," Hill reassured, her voice softening.  Tony smiled in gratitude as he gulped down the liquor, feeling a bit more at ease. "Thanks, Hill. I knew I could count on you," he said, the tension in his shoulders easing just a bit.

~*~*~*~

Frigga glanced up when she heard footsteps coming down the stairs. She smiled warmly as Loki entered the room, but her expression quickly turned to concern when she noticed the worry etched on his face. "Loki, what's troubling you?"  She asked gently, setting aside the pot. Loki sniffled, his eyes betraying his distress. "Any news of Miss Cupcake?" he inquired, his voice trembling slightly.  Frigga sighed as she scratched her forehead, trying to find the right words. "I'm afraid not, Loki. We're doing everything we can, but there's still no sign of her." Loki's shoulders slumped, and he sank into a chair, his despair palpable. Frigga cupped his face gently, forcing him to meet her eyes. "Don't lose hope. Tony, your father, Thor, and even Fandral are looking for her. They won't rest until Miss Cupcake is found." Loki nodded, though his eyes were still clouded with worry. "It's just... she means so much to me," he whispered, his voice barely audible. Frigga hugged him tightly, reassuring him with her presence.

~*~*~*~

Frigga frowned, her concern deepening. "Are you sure you want to go for a run? I don't want you to be going out alone right now." Loki smiled softly, trying to reassure her. "It's okay, Mother. I just want to get out of the house for a bit and maybe look for Miss Cupcake myself." Loki sighed, "Besides, I'm going to take Fenrir with me," he added, patting the K9 who barked in agreement. "He'll keep me company and make sure I stay safe." Frigga's frown did not ease, but she nodded reluctantly. "Alright, but please be careful. Promise me you'll come back if you sense anything strange," she insisted, her eyes filled with maternal worry. Loki squeezed her hand reassuringly, "I promise, Mother. I'll be back soon, I'll have my phone with me at all times." He said taking out the new phone Tony had given him."Please be back soon," Frigga shouted as Loki made his way towards the door. He glanced back one last time, offering a reassuring smile before stepping out into the bustling streets.

~*~*~*~

Loki ran with Fenrir right by his side, the K9's presence a comforting companion. For the first time in days, he felt a sense of freedom as the wind whipped through his hair and the city noises faded into the background. Despite the heavy weight of worry still lingering in his heart, the rhythmic pounding of his feet on the pavement brought him a fleeting moment of peace. He knew that he wasn't completely free; that fucker was still watching him. The shadow of his pursuer loomed large in his mind, a constant reminder that this peace was only temporary. Fenrir barked suddenly, snapping Loki out of his thoughts. He glanced up and stopped when he saw Steve waving at him from across the street. With a cautious smile, Loki jogged over, curious about what had brought Steve to this part of the city. "Hey, Steve," Loki said, catching his breath. "What are you doing here?"  Steve smiled warmly. "I was coming from the library; I needed some books for my homework," he explained, holding up a few thick volumes. "What about you? What brings you to this part of town?" Loki shrugged, trying to keep his tone casual. "Just needed to clear my head and get some fresh air," he said, glancing down at Fenrir. "And maybe search for Miss Cupcake. She’s been missing for a few days now, and I thought I'd try my luck around here." Steve's expression softened. "Yeah, Stark told us about your cat. I'm really sorry to hear that, Loki," he said, his voice full of genuine concern. "Would you like a coffee?" Steve asked, gesturing to a nearby café. Loki considered it for a moment before nodding. "Sure, I could use a break," he replied, giving Fenrir a gentle pat as they headed towards the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

~*~*~*~

"Are you still receiving those letters?" Steve asked, taking a seat and looking at Loki with a hint of concern. Loki's expression darkened briefly before he nodded. "Yeah, they haven't stopped. But let's not talk about that now," he said, forcing a smile as he took a sip of his coffee. Steve nodded in understanding, respecting Loki's wish to change the subject. "So, have you tried that new bakery down the street? I hear their pastries are incredible," he offered, hoping to lighten the mood. Loki's eyes lit up slightly at the mention of pastries. "I haven't, but I've heard good things," he replied, grateful for the distraction. "Maybe we can all go and check it out together just like we used to," he suggested, feeling a bit more at ease in Steve's company. Steve's face brightened at the idea, "That sounds like a plan! It's been too long since we've done something like that." "Yeah," Loki said, biting into the warm pastry. "It'll be just like old times." The prospect of a simple outing brought a rare smile to his face.

"Me too," Steve said, sighing, especially when we all went out to do homework at the café. "Those were some of the best times, just hanging out and working through our assignments together." Loki nodded, feeling a sense of nostalgia wash over him."And when Barton would tell those lame jokes," Loki said, as they both laughed. "He always thought he was the funniest guy in the group." Steve chuckled, "Yeah, but somehow, his jokes always managed to lighten the mood, didn't they?"

"They sure did, but what made it even funnier was Bruce's annoyed face," Loki added with a smirk. "He'd roll his eyes so hard, we thought they'd get stuck that way." Steve laughed, shaking his head, "Oh, absolutely, Bruce's frustration was almost as entertaining as Barton's jokes." They continued to laugh, enjoying the shared memories and the sense of camaraderie. The lighthearted conversation seemed to lift a weight off Loki's shoulders, and for a moment, everything felt just like it used to.  Steve sighed, "We miss you at school, Loki. Things just aren't the same without your clever remarks and quick wit." Loki smiled softly, feeling a bittersweet pang of nostalgia."I hope to be back soon," Loki said, his voice tinged with optimism. "Right now, I'm finishing my semester online, but I can't wait to see everyone again." Steve nodded, "We'll be waiting for you, and when you do come back, let's make that bakery visit our first stop." Loki smiled, feeling a warmth in his chest that he hadn't felt in a long time. "It's a promise, then," he said, looking forward to the day they could all be together again. The simple thought of reconnecting with his friends filled him with hope.

~*~*~*~

Loki walked back home, his hands tucked into the pockets of his sweater, the cool evening air brushing against his face. His loyal dog, K9, trotted beside him, tail wagging with every step.  He felt disappointed; he had hoped to find his cat, but he had found nothing. After leaving the café and bidding goodbye to Steve, he had gone to the park to check if Miss Cupcake was there. The last time she got lost, Bruce had found her lounging on a bench near the fountain.  but he had no luck, so he decided to go home and look for her again tomorrow. The sun was starting to set, casting long shadows across the park as he and Fenrir made their way back.

 He glanced up, and the familiar view of his house came into focus, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. The sight of home brought a sense of comfort, despite the worry gnawing at him about Miss Cupcake. As he approached the front door, Fenrir barked excitedly, as if sensing that everything would be alright. Loki smiled as he patted the dog who ran to the backyard. He changed direction and walked to the mailbox.  As he opened the mailbox, he saw an envelope and his heart dropped. He knew right away who it was from the familiar handwriting. He felt tears in his eyes and his hand trembled as he grabbed the envelope.  He closed the mailbox and walked towards his house, clutching the envelope tightly.  He unlocked the door and stepped inside, glancing outside to see if anyone had followed him. Once inside, he leaned against the door, trying to steady his breathing as he stared at the envelope, dreading what it might contain. 

A soft voice from the kitchen called out, "Thor, is that you?" Loki swallowed hard and shouted back, "No, Mom, it's me." His voice was shaky as he called out, and he quickly wiped away the tears that had formed in his eyes. Taking a deep breath, he made his way to the kitchen, trying to compose himself before facing his mother. Frigga smiled when she saw Loki. "Hey honey, how was your run?" she asked, turning her back to her son to stir the rice. Loki forced a smile and replied, "It was fine, Mom," trying to keep the anxiety out of his voice."Food is almost ready. Your father and Thor should be here any minute," she said, not noticing the distress on Loki's face. He nodded absentmindedly, his eyes darting back to the envelope clutched in his hand. "I won't have dinner," Loki said abruptly. Frigga turned, concern etching her features, as Loki quickly hid the envelope behind his back. "Is everything alright, dear?" she asked gently, sensing something was amiss."I'm fine," Loki said, forcing a reassuring smile. "I'm just tired from the run; it's been a while since I've gone out." Frigga studied him for a moment before nodding, accepting his explanation but not entirely convinced. “But why aren't you having dinner?" Frigga asked, her voice soft but insistent. Loki shuffled on his feet, "I ran into a friend of mine, Steve, and he invited me to eat with him. I didn't want to be rude and decline.  We stayed at the cafe for a bit, catching up on old times. I lost track of time and ended up eating there." Frigga sighed but smiled, "Alright, just make sure to eat something later if you get hungry." Loki nodded, relieved that his mother didn't press further. "I will, Mom," he promised, turning to head upstairs. As he reached his room, he closed the door behind him and finally allowed himself to look at the envelope again, feeling the weight of its contents pressing on his heart.  He bit his bottom lip as he carefully tore it open, his hands trembling slightly. Inside were some photos, and Loki's heart stopped when he saw the content of the photos. They were images of him.  And for the first time, Loki wished he was dead. 

Chapter Text

Loki's hands trembled as he held the letter, each word cutting deeper than the last. His breath hitched, and he felt a knot tighten in his chest, threatening to break his composure. Tears welled up in his eyes, blurring the ink as he struggled to process the painful revelation. He felt his heart pounding in his ears as he read the letter one more time, trying to make sense of the words. 

My Love,

Do you like the photos I send you? You're so beautiful when you sleep, but the most beautiful thing about you is when you pleasure yourself.  I wish I was the one touching you, feeling the warmth of your skin under my fingertips. The thought of you moaning my name drives me wild. Remember, I'm always watching, even when you think you're alone. I made sure to take extra care in capturing your most intimate moments. The way you move and the sounds you make are forever etched in my memory.  My favorite is the moment when you clutch the sheets while you reach that peak of ecstasy. Your face contorts in pure bliss, and it feels like I'm right there with you, sharing in your pleasure. The sight of sweat dripping from your body, glistening under the dim light, only adds to your allure. The beautiful sound you make as you gasp and moan is a melody that plays over and over in my mind.  Afterward, you fall asleep with a smile on your beautiful lips, your breathing soft and even.  I wanted to join you, but you almost woke up when I reached out. Maybe next time, I'll be brave enough to make my presence known and share that moment with you fully.

Your Secret Admirer

 Loki's hands clenched into fists, crumpling the letter as a wave of nausea washed over him. He closed his eyes tightly, as if to block out the haunting photos that accompanied the letter. His hands shook even more violently, and he felt an overwhelming urge to tear the photos and letter to pieces. But the damage was already done; the disturbing words had seared themselves into his mind.   How could someone invade his privacy so completely, so cruelly? He refused to believe it, desperately hoping this was some sick joke or nightmare. But the cold, hard reality of the photos in his hands made it impossible to escape the truth. “Do you like the photos I send you?”  He felt a deep sense of embarrassment wash over him, his cheeks burning with shame. The thought that someone had seen such private moments made his stomach churn, and he wished he could simply disappear. The next thing he knows, he's running to his bathroom to throw up what he had eaten at the cafe. The nausea overtakes him, and he grips the sink for support, his mind racing with fear and humiliation.  Tears stream down his cheeks uncontrollably, mingling with the sweat on his brow as he heaves into the sink. He tries to choke back the sobs, but they come in waves, relentless and unforgiving, until his stomach is emptied. He slides down the wall, the cold tiles offering little comfort as he hugs his knees to his chest, his body wracked with the aftershock of his despair. The room spins around him, but he focuses on his breathing, trying to regain some sense of control amidst the chaos.  How could anyone derive pleasure from such a twisted violation of his privacy? The sheer malice behind the act was incomprehensible, leaving him to question what kind of person would stoop so low. Wracked with a sense of helplessness, he wondered if he'd ever feel safe in his own space again. “You're so beautiful when you sleep, but the most beautiful thing about you is when you pleasure yourself.”  Loki stands up and walks to his room, wiping his mouth in disgust as he looks at the photos again. He couldn't shake the invasive feeling, each image a stark reminder of the violation of his privacy.   He wondered how these pictures were taken; the doors and windows were always locked at night. There were no other keys except his, his parents', siblings', and Tony's.  One of the photos shows him completely nude, gripping the sheets for dear life as he reaches his climax, sweat glistening on his body.  In another photo, he was biting down on a shirt to stop his moaning, the fabric muffling his sounds of pleasure because his parents were home that day.  The sheer explicitness of the images makes his heart pound in his chest, and he quickly looks away, feeling a fresh wave of humiliation. He couldn't fathom who would have the audacity to capture such an intimate moment, let alone send it to him in such a callous manner.

“My favorite.” 

This moment that was supposed to be so private and sacred had been captured and exploited in the most grotesque manner. The violation left him feeling utterly exposed, as if every boundary he had carefully maintained had been shattered. Suppressing the urge to throw up again, he flipped through the rest of the photos. Some were taken from different angles of the same intimate moments, while others captured even more private and vulnerable positions. Each picture intensified his sense of violation and helplessness, making him feel like a prisoner in his own life.

 The realization hit him like a punch to the gut—some of these photos were taken while he was on the phone with Tony. He could distinctly remember the conversations, the way Tony's voice had lulled him into a sense of comfort and desire. These moments between Tony and him were supposed to be private and sacred, shared only between the two of them.  Not for this fucker to invade his and Tony's privacy, to turn something so pure into a weapon of torment. The thought of someone else watching, intruding on their most intimate moments, made his skin crawl. 

 How could he not have known? How could he have been so stupid, especially when someone was in his home, watching him, and taking pictures? Wasn't Fenrir supposed to warn him and his family? That's why Thor had brought the dog to keep the house safe—yet there had been no warning, no growl, no indication that their sanctuary had been breached. “ The beautiful sound you make as you gasp and moan is a melody that plays over and over in my mind.”  That's why. He had been so immersed with Tony while pleasuring himself that he probably missed Fenrir barking. The weight of his own carelessness added another layer of guilt to his already heavy heart, making it even harder to breathe.  He felt a surge of anger rising within him, a burning desire to find the bastard responsible and make him pay for this violation. Yet, the hopelessness of the situation paralyzed him; how could he fight back when he didn't even know who his tormentor was? The sense of powerlessness gnawed at his soul, leaving him to grapple with the overwhelming fear and fury that threatened to consume him.

 Looking at the photos one more time, he knew what this man was capable of, and it only left him with one feeling: fear.  In a fit of rage, he ripped the letter and photos into shreds, each tear an attempt to reclaim some semblance of control. The pieces fluttered to the ground like confetti, but it did little to ease the turmoil inside him. He knew destroying them wouldn't erase the memories or the violation, but it was a small act of defiance against his unseen tormentor.  Determined to uncover any hidden devices, he began tearing through the room with frantic energy. He searched behind the curtains, under the bed, and inside the closet, but still found nothing. Moving to the bathroom, he checked beneath the sink, inside the medicine cabinet, and even behind the toilet, his frustration growing with each futile search. He ran a hand over his hair as he scanned around his messy room, tears welling up in his eyes. There was nothing—no hidden cameras, no clues, nothing to explain how these photos were taken.  He decided to search one more time, tearing apart his already messy room in desperation. Pillows were thrown, drawers were emptied, and books were scattered across the floor, but still, he found nothing. Just then, a wave of dizziness hit him, forcing him to grasp the cabinet for support.  He gripped the cabinet tightly, trying to steady himself, but the dizziness only grew worse. His vision blurred, and he felt an overwhelming sense of fear and confusion as the room began to spin.  His hand brushed against the cold plastic of a hairbrush. He gripped the brush tightly and, in a fit of anger, hurled it at the mirror, shattering it into a thousand pieces. The sound of the glass breaking echoed through the room, mirroring the chaos in his mind.

~*~*~*~

"Loki is not joining us for dinner?" Thor asked as he set the table, his brows furrowing in concern. "No," came the soft reply from his mother. "He had dinner with Steve earlier," she explained. Thor raised an eyebrow. “Steve?” he questioned. "Did he take Loki out to eat?" Thor questioned, his confusion evident.  Frigga shook her head. "No dear. Loki bumped into him while he was on his run," she clarified. "They decided to grab something to eat together."  Thor's worry deepened. "You let him go by himself?" he asked, a note of concern in his voice.  Frigga shook her head reassuringly. "Don't worry, Thor. He went with Fenrir, and besides, he needed some fresh air and space to clear his mind," she said, her voice calm and soothing. "And don't worry, he's already back and in his room now, resting." Thor nodded, still uneasy but trusting his mother's words. He placed the last plate on the table, trying to push his worries aside. "I suppose you're right," he said, forcing a smile. "I'll check on him later, just to make sure he's alright." But then a frown appeared on Frigga as she remembered Loki looking scared. "When he came back from his run, he looked troubled, almost as if he had seen something that frightened him," she admitted softly.

 Thor's expression grew more serious as he listened. "Did he say what it was?" he asked, his eyes narrowing with concern. Frigga shook her head. "No, he didn't share any details, but I could tell something was weighing heavily on his mind," she replied. But then she shook her hand, waving away the worries. 'Don't listen to me, he was probably just tired,' she added, trying to reassure herself as much as Thor. "Let's not jump to conclusions before speaking with him.”  Thor nodded, but their conversation was cut short as their heads snapped towards the door, where Odin, followed by Hela, entered the room.  Odin hung his jacket as he walked into the kitchen and gently kissed Frigga on the cheek. "Good evening, my dear," he greeted warmly.  Hela followed suit, placing her jacket and purse on the nearby chair. "Evening, everyone," she greeted, before turning to Thor. "I see that dinner is ready," she said, taking a seat at the table."Dinner smells wonderful, Mother," she added, turning her attention to Frigga with a warm smile. Frigga returned the smile, her worries momentarily forgotten. "Thank you, Hela. I hope you're all hungry," she said, gesturing for everyone to take their seats. Frigga then turned to her daughter with a gentle smile. "Aren't you going to change into something more comfortable, dear?" she asked, pointing at Hela's EMS uniform.  Hela glanced down at her attire and said, "It's fine, Mother. I had a long shift and just want to relax now." She took a deep breath, savoring the aroma of the meal, and added, "Besides, I'm starving."  Frigga smiled in understanding as she began to serve the meal, the aroma of the food filling the room. Odin glanced around and asked, "Is Loki not joining us for dinner?" Frigga paused for a moment before replying, "He’s resting in his room. "He seemed a bit tired after his run," Odin nodded thoughtfully, a hint of concern in his eyes. "He had dinner with a friend earlier, and now he's just taking some time to rest," Frigga added, hoping to ease Odin's worry. "We'll check on him after dinner," Thor assured, trying to keep the atmosphere light as they began their meal. 

 Hela played with her salad absentmindedly, her mind clearly elsewhere. "I hope he’s alright," she murmured, glancing up with a worried expression that mirrored Odin's. Hela asked softly, "How is he feeling?" Thor responded, "He's doing okay after what happened, but he still seems a bit shaken." Frigga nodded in agreement, "Yes, he's been quiet and more reserved than usual."  Hela sighed, her eyes filled with concern. "I wish there was more we could do for him," she said softly, her voice tinged with guilt. "He's been through so much already." Frigga squeezed her daughter's hand gently. "Don't worry, Tony is already helping," Frigga assured her. Hela raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean?" she asked.  Odin lowered his voice. "He has a private investigator looking into the matter. She is searching for any suspects who might be responsible for sending those letters to Loki," he explained. Hela looked surprised, her eyes widening. "Really? I had no idea," Hela remarked, her voice barely above a whisper. "Do we have any leads so far?" Thor shook his head. "No, but she's still investigating," he replied, his tone somber. "We hope she finds something soon." Hela chuckled, "It looks like Tony is always a step ahead, isn't he?" She took a deep breath, trying to let go of some of the tension.

"Let's hope his investigator uncovers the truth quickly," she added, her voice filled with a mix of hope and determination. Hela thought for a moment before speaking again. "As you all know, I don't usually get along with Tony, but I must admit he's starting to grow on me," she confessed, a small smile playing on her lips. "His dedication to helping Loki speaks volumes."  Frigga smiled warmly at her daughter. "I don't particularly like Tony either, but there's no denying his dedication to Loki goes way beyond what anyone else has done," she said. "Tony is a good kid with a big heart, even if he doesn't always show it."she added, her tone softening. Thor swallowed the bite as he spoke, "See, I told you Tony is not a bad person. He's just... he just has a different way of showing he cares. But when it comes to Loki, he always goes above and beyond.”  Hela chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Funny how things change. I used to think Tony was just an arrogant fool, but now I see how much he truly cares for Loki. It's almost endearing."  Odin shook his head in approval. "He has proven himself to be a good partner for Loki," he acknowledged. "Their bond is stronger than I ever imagined." Frigga smiled, glad that her son has found someone to look out for him in both good and bad times. "Loki is lucky to have Tony by his side," she said softly. "It's comforting to know that he has someone so loyal and dedicated to his well-being." Hela's expression softened even more. "I suppose I owe him a thank you," she murmured. "For looking after my brother when I couldn't." Frigga squeezed her daughter's hand but no one said anything as they continued to eat. 

 The soft clicking of utensils was the only sound, but the silence didn't last when the sound of breaking glass echoed through the room.  Everyone's heads snapped up, eyes wide with alarm. Frigga's heart pounded as she whispered, "Loki," and stood up, rushing upstairs to check on her son.  The others followed swiftly, their footsteps echoing behind her.  Frigga reached Loki's room first, her breath hitching as she pushed open the door.  Tears welled up in her eyes when she saw the state her son was in.   Loki was sitting on the floor surrounded by shattered glass, his knees to his chest, rocking back and forth, tears streaming down his face.  Frigga rushed to his side, enveloping him in a comforting embrace. Hela was the first to step into Loki's room, her eyes widening as she took in the mess. "What happened here?" she asked, concern lacing her voice as she knelt beside them. Loki looked up, his tear-filled eyes meeting hers, but he couldn't find the words to explain. Frigga hugged Loki tighter and kissed her son gently on the forehead. "Shh, it's okay, my love. We're here now," she whispered soothingly, trying to calm him down.  Hela's expression softened as she reached out to brush a tear from Loki's cheek. 

Thor and Odin exchanged worried glances, unsure of how to help. They stood there, helpless, watching Loki cry. Odin's eyes reflected deep concern, while Thor clenched his fists, wishing he could do more. Frigga asked softly, "What happened?" Her voice is gentle. Loki shook his head, unwilling to say anything, the pain too fresh. Hela's eyes narrowed slightly as she glanced around the room, trying to piece together the events that had led to her brother's distress. Her eyes landed on ripped papers scattered across the floor, and she understood immediately. "The letter," Hela murmured, her voice filled with realization. She picked up a torn piece, recognizing the familiar handwriting, and sighed deeply, "Another fucking letter."  Thor sighed angrily, his frustration palpable. "Why do they keep doing this to him?" he muttered, his voice thick with anger and sorrow. Odin placed a hand on Thor's shoulder, trying to offer silent support while Frigga continued to comfort Loki.  Hela ran a hand gently up and down Loki's back, feeling helpless but wanting to offer some comfort. 

~*~*~*~

The ticking sound of the old grandfather clock filled the silent room. Odin paced back and forth, his hands clasped behind his back, deep in thought. Hela sighed, crossing her legs as she glanced at the clock, the atmosphere heavy with unspoken questions and shared concern.  Odin glanced up when he heard the bedroom door close softly. Frigga and Thor came down the stairs, their faces etched with worry, signaling that Loki had finally fallen asleep. "How is he?" Odin asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Frigga shook her head, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "He's exhausted, both physically and emotionally," she replied softly, reaching for Odin's hand for comfort. Odin kissed her hand gently, his eyes reflecting his deep concern."I'm glad he's finally getting some rest," Odin said, his voice filled with relief. "He needs it after everything he's been through," Odin added. Hela nodded in agreement, though her eyes remained clouded with concern for her brother. 

 Frigga took a seat beside Hela and said, "We need to find a way to stop these letters from reaching him; they're tearing him apart."  Odin asked, "How? We don't even know how they got to him in the first place."  Hela snapped her fingers, her eyes lighting up with sudden realization. "The mailbox. The last letter he received was left in the mailbox—that's how they're getting to him," she declared.  "Then we'll get to them," Thor said, determination evident in his voice.  Before Odin could say anything, the sound of wheels screeching outside interrupted the tense discussion. Everyone's heads turned toward the window as they heard a car door slam shut. Hela stood up quickly, her eyes narrowing as she moved to investigate the sudden commotion. The sound of urgent knocking echoed through the room, and Hela moved swiftly to open the door. Her annoyance was palpable when she saw Stark standing there, his expression full of concern. "What are you doing here, Stark?" she asked, her voice tinged with irritation.  Tony chuckled, "Thor texted me about what happened to Loki." Just then, Thor's head popped into view. "Hey, come in," Thor said, his voice still filled with worry. Hela stepped aside, allowing Tony to enter the room.  She glared daggers at his back, clearly still irritated by his presence.  Odin went to step at his daughter's side and whispered, "I thought you said he was growing on you." Hela's eyes flickered with annoyance as she whispered back,"No, I guess I was wrong," she whispered. "I can't stand him; every time he comes, it's like he commands all the attention without trying."  Odin chuckled softly and said, "Well, maybe you should take notes, Hela. Perhaps you could learn to command attention without trying too." Hela rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small smile that tugged at her lips. With a resigned sigh, she closed the door with a soft click. 

 Tony walked further in. He was still clad in his gym clothes, his hair damp with sweat and his shirt clinging to his body. "Sorry for the informal attire," he said, glancing down at himself. "I came as soon as I got Thor's message."  Hela rolled her eyes, even in that state Tony still looked good. He could wear a trash bag and somehow still manage to look like he belonged on the cover of a magazine. Frigga smiled softly. "It's okay, Tony. We're just glad you're here," she replied, her voice filled with gratitude.  Tony sighed and ran a hand through his damp hair and asked, "What happened now?" Thor exchanged a worried glance with Frigga before replying, "He received another letter," Thor said, his voice tinged with concern. Tony's eyes narrowed as he took a step closer. "Another one? What did it say this time?"  Frigga sighed, her eyes clouding with worry. "We don't know; he doesn't want to say. But whatever he read in the letter caused him to break down completely."  Odin shuffled on his feet, his face etched with worry. "We were having dinner when we heard a loud noise. We went to check on him, and he was crying, his room a mess—he even broke his mirror."  Tony's jaw twitched; he was tired of whoever was sending these letters, destroying Loki little by little. He needed to call Hill and make her hurry up with the investigation.

"We can't let these letters get to him," Tony said firmly, his eyes darkening with determination. "We need to intercept them before they reach Loki. I'll get in touch with a friend right away and see if we can set up surveillance cameras around the house."  Frigga nodded, her eyes reflecting both hope and worry. "Thank you, Tony. Anything to protect Loki," she said softly, her voice quivering slightly. "We cannot afford to let him go through this torment any longer." Tony smiled softly, his expression softening. "It's the best I can do for now, but I promise we'll find out who's behind this." Frigga reached out and squeezed his hand gently, her gratitude evident. Tony glanced upstairs and said, "Can I go and see him for a moment?" Frigga nodded, a faint smile of appreciation crossing her face. "Of course, Tony. Maybe seeing you would lift his spirit," she suggested. Frigga beckoned him to follow her. "He's staying in the visitors' room, third door on the left."  Tony nodded and walked down the hallway, his footsteps echoing softly against the marble floor. As he approached the third door on the left, he took a deep breath, steeling his nerves. He pushed the door open and saw Loki asleep, his face softened in slumber. Tony walked up quietly, pulling up a chair to sit beside the bed, and waited for him to wake up.  He watched Loki's peaceful expression and wondered what could have been in that letter to cause him to break down so completely. Tony's mind raced with possibilities, each one more troubling than the last. Tony clenched his fists, feeling the anger bubbling inside him. This tormentor wasn't just breaking Loki; he was tearing Tony apart too, piece by piece. He couldn't stand to see the person he cared about suffer like this any longer. He ran a hand over his face, trying to calm the storm of emotions swirling within him. He knew he had to stay strong, for Loki's sake.  Tony reached out and gently took Loki's hand in his, hoping to offer some comfort even in his sleep. He kissed Loki's hand softly, a silent promise that he would find a way to end their suffering. 

~*~*~*~

 Tony's eyes snapped open when he felt a hand on his back. He turned to see Frigga standing there, her gaze filled with both concern and maternal warmth. "You should go home and change, and get some rest. You fell asleep in this uncomfortable chair," Frigga whispered softly, her hand resting gently on his back. Tony blinked groggily, his eyes adjusting to the morning light streaming through the window, and nodded reluctantly.  He must have fallen asleep while he was waiting for Loki to wake up. He glanced at the bed and saw that Loki was still peacefully asleep, his chest rising and falling with each breath. "He'll be fine," Frigga whispered reassuringly. "You are already doing enough. Go home and rest; you need to take care of yourself too."  Tony hesitated but nodded. "Yeah, okay," he said. Frigga left, leaving Tony alone with his thoughts and the soft sound of Loki's breathing filling the room.  He stood up, stretching his stiff muscles and wincing slightly at the discomfort. "Stupid chair," he mumbled under his breath, rubbing his lower back.  His eyes snapped towards Loki, who now had his eyes open and a small smile playing on his lips.

"You should have laid down with me," Loki murmured softly, his voice still tinged with exhaustion but filled with warmth. Tony chuckled softly, kneeling beside Loki and leaning in to kiss those kissable lips. "I didn't want to disturb you," he whispered against Loki's mouth. "But I'll take you up on that offer next time." Loki's smile widened, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes. "Next time, I won't take no for an answer," he teased lightly. Tony laughed, feeling a wave of relief wash over him as he saw a spark of the old Loki returning. But the spark wasn't enough to dispel the shadows of worry that still loomed over them. Tony's heart ached with the pain of knowing their nightmare was far from over.  This bastard was so obsessed with Loki that Tony feared they would never truly be free from his grasp.  Loki's hand snapped him from his thoughts. "Stop thinking too much; you might fry your brain," he teased. Tony chuckled, grateful for the momentary distraction, but the worry still lingered in the back of his mind. He kissed Loki one more time before saying, "Keep resting. I'm going to go home and change. I'll be back soon."   Loki nodded, pulling Tony in for one more lingering kiss. "I'll be here, waiting for you," he promised, his voice steady despite the exhaustion. Tony smiled, feeling a glimmer of hope that perhaps, together, they could find a way to reclaim their peace.

~*~*~*~

"Care to join us for breakfast?" Frigga asked when she saw Tony coming down the stairs.  Tony smiled warmly and shook his head. "I wish I could, but I need to get home and change," he said, glancing down at his gym clothes. "Maybe another time?"  Frigga smiled understandingly and nodded. "Of course, Tony. We'll save you a seat for next time," she said, her eyes twinkling with warmth."You know what, I'll take a coffee to go," Tony said with a grin. Frigga's smile widened as she moved to the counter. "Coming right up," she replied.  He glanced at the table where Hela was the only one eating, her intense gaze briefly meeting him before she returned to her meal.  Tony chuckled to himself, fully aware that Hela didn't particularly like him, though he always pretended not to notice. "Thanks, Frigga," he said as she handed him the coffee, and with a final nod to the table, he headed for the door.

~*~*~

He slid into the car and stared up at Loki's room. The curtains fluttered slightly, and he could almost see Loki's silhouette resting inside. Tony sighed, gripping the steering wheel tightly, determined to protect the man he loved from the shadows that threatened their happiness. He silently vowed to put an end to this nightmare once and for all. He didn't know how, but he was going to stop this, even if it meant making enemies among his friends.  The thought of losing Loki to this unseen tormentor was unbearable, and Tony was prepared to do whatever it took to protect him. His resolve hardened as he sat there, determined to uncover the truth and bring peace back to their lives.   His phone binged, bringing him back to the present. He picked it up, checking the screen to find a message from Bruce: "How's Loki?"  He had forgotten to send a text last night, too consumed by worry.  He had left the gym in a hurry, leaving Steve and Bruce mid-conversation, their concerned expressions etched into his mind. "He's stable for now," Tony quickly typed back, though the knot in his stomach told him it was far from over.  He tapped his finger on the steering wheel as he thought about what he said yesterday about setting surveillance cameras.  It was a good idea; that way, they could see who comes and goes and identify the person behind those letters.  He scroll down his phone and dialed the number. He waited for the phone to pick up. "Hey, it's Tony," he said when the line connected. "I need a favor—can you get some surveillance cameras installed around Loki's place ASAP?"

Chapter Text

"There, the cameras are all set," Rhodey said, climbing down the ladder and dusting his hands. Tony patted Rhodey's back, acknowledging his friend's hard work. "Thanks, buddy. These should help us keep a better eye on things around here."  Rhodey pointed to the monitor on the wall. "These cameras have motion sensors and night vision capabilities, so we'll be able to see any movement, even in the dark," he explained. "Plus, they're connected to a secure network, so we can monitor everything from our phones." Tony nodded, a satisfied grin spreading across his face. "That's perfect. Now we can see who is sending those letters to Loki,"   Tony said, grinning as he activated the surveillance system on his phone. The screen flickered to life, showing a live feed of the mailbox.  He moved around the premises, testing the motion sensors, and was pleased to see the system responding instantly. His smile grew, glad that the system was working flawlessly. With this setup, he could finally see who comes and goes, and identify the culprit sending those mysterious letters to Loki. Tony felt a sense of relief, knowing he had the upper hand now.

 He hoped the new system would provide the answers they needed to protect Loki from any further emotional turmoil. It was crucial to uncover the sender's identity and put an end to the distressing messages once and for all. Tony was determined to keep Loki safe and ensure their peace of mind. Rhodey slapped Tony's back, a supportive smile on his face. "I hope with this system, it'll help bring some peace of mind to Loki and you, buddy." Tony nodded, determination in his eyes as he continued to monitor the feed, ready to catch the sender of those unsettling letters. "Yeah, I hope so too," Tony said, pocketing his phone. He glanced at Rhodey, appreciating his friend's support. "Thank you for helping and for coming," Tony said sincerely. Rhodey nodded, his expression softening. "Anytime, Tony. That's what friends are for." Tony smiled, grateful for his friend's generosity. "I promise to tell you everything later," Tony added, his voice tinged with exhaustion. "Right now, I just don't have the peace of mind to go into details." Rhodey nodded in understanding. "Take your time, you don't have to rush," Rhodey said reassuringly. "We'll talk when you're ready." Tony felt a weight lift off his shoulders at Rhodey's words."Well," Rhodey said, picking up his belongings, "just know that I'm here if you need anything."  Tony nodded, "Thanks, bud," he said as he took Rhodey's hand and gave it a firm squeeze. "I really appreciate it." Rhodey gave him one final nod before heading towards his car. "Take care, Tony. Talk to you soon," he said, waving as he walked away. 

~*~*~*~

"Here you go," Tony said, handing back Odin and Frigga's phones. "This will help us capture whoever comes and goes. The app for it is already installed and activated for use."  Frigga tiptoed and glanced over Odin's shoulder as he opened the app, and the mailbox came into view. "Wow," Frigga whispered as she watched Odin move the camera around. "We can finally see who comes and goes and discover who's been sending those letters to Loki."  Thor also watched the camera feed from his phone, amazed at how clearly it captured everything. "It's incredible," he remarked, zooming in to get a closer look at the entrance.  Odin glanced at Tony and nodded approvingly. "Thank you, Tony, for doing this," he said. Tony smiled softly and replied, "Anything to keep Loki safe." Tony shuffled on his feet, hesitant but concerned. "Has Loki said anything about why he had that breakdown?" he asked. Frigga sighed sadly and shook her head. "No, he hasn't said anything, and every time I or Thor ask, he doesn't answer."  Thor sighed and pocketed his phone. "Whatever was in that letter, it destroyed my brother. He's been distant and uncharacteristically quiet since he received it," Thor said, the worry evident in his voice. "We have done everything we can think of to help him," Odin said, his voice heavy with concern. "We keep checking the mailbox for those letters, but nothing has arrived since then."  Frigga pinched her hand, a nervous habit that was hard to break. "It's only been a day, and I worry those letters will show up again," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "That's why I had Rhodey set up the cameras," Tony said, his tone determined. "We need to find out who's behind this and intercept those letters before Loki gets to them.I've also had Happy look into everyone who has access to your address," he continued, glancing at each of them. "Hopefully, we'll get some answers soon and put an end to this."  Frigga smiled softly, appreciating Tony's protective instincts. "Thank you, Tony," she said. "Your efforts mean a lot to us, and I have faith that we will uncover the truth together." Thor nodded, agreeing with his mother. "Thank you, Tony, for doing this for my brother. It brings me relief to know we have someone as capable as you on our side."  Tony smiled softly, not sure how to respond. "Hey, I just love Loki, and I hate seeing him suffer, especially from some stalker that we don't even know who it is," he said, determination evident in his voice. "We'll get to the bottom of this." Frigga smiled and grabbed Tony's hand, patting it gently. "Thank you so much. And can I ask you for a favor?" she inquired, her eyes filled with hope.  Tony raised an eyebrow but nodded, curiosity piqued. "Of course, anything for you, Frigga," he replied. "What do you need me to do?"  Frigga smiled sadly as she replied, "Can you talk to him? He seems more comfortable talking to you about things he won't share with anyone else.”  Tony nodded, understanding her request. "I'll try my best to get through to him and see what that letter said," he promised, determination in his voice. Frigga squeezed his hand in gratitude, knowing she could count on him. 

~*~*~*~

Loki was leaning on the headboard, engrossed in a book, when Tony entered the room. A small smile appeared on Loki's lips as Tony approached, kneeling down beside him and pressing a gentle kiss to his cheek.  Loki smiled and kissed Tony on the lips, making Tony smile in return. He was glad to see Loki doing better, but he knew this nightmare wasn't over yet. There were still many challenges ahead, and they would need each other more than ever. "I'm glad you're doing better," Tony whispered. Loki sighed and smiled at Tony, feeling grateful for his support. "With you by my side, I know I can face whatever comes next," Loki replied softly.  Tony smiled wider and brushed a strand of hair behind Loki's ear. "Rhodey finally set the cameras up. We'll finally see who comes and goes, and maybe we'll get some answers," he said, hoping it would ease Loki's mind a bit.  Loki felt a wave of relief wash over him, knowing they might finally uncover the mystery behind the letters. The thought of getting answers and putting an end to the uncertainty gave him a renewed sense of hope.

Tony cleared his throat as he sat on the edge of Loki's bed. "We need to talk about what happened to you and what that letter said," he began, his voice gentle but firm.  Tony continued, "I know you don't want to talk about it, but it's important." He watched as Loki's cheeks turned red and his eyes grew watery. "We're here to help, and understanding what's going on is the first step," Tony added, trying to reassure him. "Whatever was in that letter, it clearly affected you in ways nothing else has," Tony said softly. "Please, tell me what was in it that made you react so strongly, even to the point of destroying your room."  Loki glanced at his hands, his cheeks growing even more red. He hesitated, knowing how embarrassing it was to admit, but Tony was his boyfriend and the only person he could truly confide in. He couldn't even tell his family the reason why he reacted that way. He felt ashamed to admit that every night, while on the phone with Tony, he had pleasured himself because of the way Tony talked dirty to him. Sharing this secret felt like exposing the most vulnerable part of himself.

 Tony waited patiently for Loki to say something, offering a reassuring smile that encouraged him to continue. Loki took a deep breath and finally confessed, "When I opened the letter, there were some, uhmmm, some photos," he stammered, feeling his cheeks flush with embarrassment. "I didn't know how to react, and it just overwhelmed me."  Tony raised an eyebrow, curious but cautious. "What kind of photos were they?" he asked gently, trying to gauge Loki's discomfort. "They were photos of me, you know, when I'm... um, pleasuring myself while on the phone with you," Loki admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.   Tony's jaw tightened, and he felt a surge of anger. He couldn't fathom how someone could invade Loki's privacy in such a vile way. This had crossed a line, and he was determined to find out who was responsible. He took a deep breath to calm himself. "How could someone have taken those pictures?" he wondered aloud, concern etched across his face. The thought of their private moments being invaded like that was unsettling.  Tony glanced at Loki, and his eyes softened. He took Loki's hands and said, "Do you have the photos?" Loki shook his head, "No, I ripped them up when I saw what they were. I even ripped the letter."  Tony sighed, realizing that without the photos and letter, it would be harder to track down who was behind this invasion of privacy. "I understand why you did it," he said softly, "but those might have given us some clues."  Loki nodded, regret evident in his eyes. "I know, but I couldn't stand the thought of anyone else seeing them," he replied, his voice tinged with frustration.  Tony sighed, "We'll figure out who is behind this, but next time, try to think things through a bit more." Loki nodded again, determination replacing his regret.  A thought struck Tony, and he decided to have a look around Loki's room to see if anything had been hidden away.  Perhaps Loki hadn't noticed it the first time, but Tony was determined to find any overlooked evidence. He glanced at Loki, hoping that uncovering the truth would bring him some peace.

~*~*~*~

The sound of the door to Loki's room opening echoed softly, breaking the silence. Frigga smiled sadly as she stepped inside, saying, "I'm sorry for this mess. I haven't had time to clean it up, so please be careful with the glass." "It's okay," Tony said as he stepped inside and turned the light on. He carefully navigated around the shattered glass, his eyes scanning the room for any clues that might have been missed.  He looked around the room for any hidden cameras, peering behind the tipped-over cabinets and bookshelf. His gaze swept across the ceiling and corners, ensuring nothing was out of place. He walked cautiously to the bathroom, pushing the door open and inspecting every nook and cranny. He checked behind the mirror and inside the cabinets, hoping to find any evidence of a hidden camera or listening device. Tony returned to the main room, his eyes scanning every inch with renewed determination. He moved the furniture slightly, checking the undersides for any suspicious gadgets. Finally, he paused by Loki's desk, carefully lifting each item, convinced that any clue might be hidden in plain sight.  Then he heard it—a soft, low beeping sound coming from Loki's computer. Right there, hidden among the cables and clutter, was a small camera, cleverly disguised to capture everything happening in the room. Tony's heart raced as he realized just how closely Loki had been monitored.  Tony's anger flared at the audacity of whoever had dared to invade Loki's privacy. The thought that someone had the nerve to break into Loki's home and plant this device in his room was infuriating. Determined to uncover the culprit, Tony vowed to get to the bottom of this violation.

~*~*~*~

"You want me to do what?" Rhodey asked as he glanced at Tony. Tony sighed and took out the small camera from his pocket, showing it to him. "This was inside Loki's room, and I need you to analyze it and track down its origin," Tony explained, handing the device over. Rhodey studied the camera carefully, already formulating a plan to use his resources to trace the breach. "Is this related to the stalker that's been sending those letters to Loki?" Rhodey asked. Tony nodded, "Yes, it seems like the stalker is getting bolder and more invasive with each passing day." "Okay," Rhodey sighed, "This will take time, but I can work faster to see who activated this camera and get some answers for you." He glanced back at Tony, determined in his eyes, "I'll prioritize this and keep you updated on any progress."   Tony sighed and leaned back in the chair as he took a swig of vodka, "Thanks, Rhodey. I appreciate it." He rubbed his temples, feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on him. "Just let me know the moment you find anything."  Rhodey nodded, "Okay, I'll keep my eyes peeled and inform you right away."  Tony appreciated Rhodey's diligence and knew he could always count on him. He hoped that whatever they were searching for would turn up soon, as time was of the essence.

~*~*~*~

A week had passed since the incident with the letter and photos, and still, there were no new leads. Thor, Frigga, and Odin had been diligently checking the cameras near the mailbox and around the house for any suspicious activity, but nothing had turned up.  Frigga made it a habit to check the mailbox for letters every morning, hoping for any clue or sign of the sender's identity. On days when she couldn't make it, Thor would take on the task, eager to support his mother's efforts in unraveling the mystery.  Odin suspected that the stalker was aware of their surveillance efforts, and this only added to his growing frustration.  Loki, on the other hand, was blissfully unaware of the ongoing surveillance and the tension it brought to his family. As he focused on his own recovery, he remained oblivious to the efforts of his parents and siblings to keep him safe from the stalker.

~*~*~*~

A month passed by without any letters from the stalker, and everyone began to relax, though they still kept checking the mailbox just in case. Despite the family's cautious vigilance, Loki remained blissfully unaware of their efforts, his focus solely on his recovery and daily routine. 

 Loki let out a long sigh as he sank into the jacuzzi, feeling the warmth envelop his body. It had been a while since he had been this relaxed, and he relished the moment of peace, completely unaware of the storm his family had shielded him from.  He closed his eyes, allowing the gentle hum of the water to drown out any lingering thoughts.  He imagined a future where he and Tony could finally enjoy their lives without the constant threat looming over them, a future filled with laughter and tranquility. The thought brought a soft smile to his lips, and he felt the tension in his muscles slowly melt away as he envisioned the endless possibilities that lay ahead. But he knew this wouldn't happen as long as the stalker was still out there, lurking in the shadows and disrupting their peace. The sense of serenity was fleeting, quickly replaced by the weight of reality pressing down on him once more.

 He opened his eyes and stared straight ahead, wondering if this was always going to be his life—caught between moments of hope and the relentless anxiety of uncertainty. Would he ever truly be free to embrace the future without fear?  He took a deep breath and reminded himself that he couldn't give up hope, no matter how difficult the journey was. He had to stay strong and face his fears, so that he could finally make his way towards a brighter future.  Out of the corner of his eye, he saw movement and looked around, frowning. It was just a rustling leaf caught in the breeze, but it reminded him of how easily his mind could play tricks on him when he let anxiety creep in.  He continued to look around and sighed with relief when he saw Feniri running towards the door, where Thor was already opening it.  He felt a pang of sadness creep into his chest as he thought about how it had already been a month with no sign of Miss Cupcake. Tony was still searching for her, determined not to give up hope.  The thought of her soft purrs and gentle nuzzles brought a bittersweet smile to his face. He couldn't wait for the day when Miss Cupcake would be back in his arms, filling the house with her comforting presence once again. He closed his eyes and let the water of the jacuzzi wash over him once again, allowing the warmth to soothe his troubled mind. The gentle bubbles enveloped him, creating a cocoon of comfort and momentarily easing the burden he carried. As he floated in the warmth, he promised himself that he would continue to hold onto hope, for both Miss Cupcake's return and the peaceful life he longed for with Tony.

~*~*~*~

Loki entered the room, drying his hair with a towel, and paused when he noticed a white box with a blue ribbon and a letter laid on top. Curiosity piqued, he approached it with caution, glancing over his shoulder as if expecting his mother to appear with an explanation.  He remembered that his mother was out running errands, his sister was at work, and his father was busy as well, while Thor was asleep in his room  Loki decided to open the letter first, and his heart dropped when he saw the familiar handwriting of his stalker.  He closed his eyes, shutting them tight, as the reality sunk in. For a month, he had clung to the hope that he was free from this torment, but now the sight of the handwriting dashed any illusions of safety.  His mind raced with questions, his thoughts a tangled mess of fear and confusion. How had the stalker managed to breach the sanctuary of his home, slipping past the locked doors and into the very heart of his personal space? The unsettling thought that someone had been inside, lurking in his room, sent chills down his spine.  He closed his eyes, wishing desperately that this nightmare wasn't real, hoping that when he opened them again, he would find it had all been a terrible dream. But the chilling reality remained, taunting him with the knowledge that his sanctuary had been violated.

He turned to close his door and locked it, feeling a wave of anxiety wash over him. With trembling hands, he tried to steady his breath, knowing he needed to stay calm and figure out his next steps. He swallowed hard and unfolded the paper, his eyes darting nervously to the box on the bed. Wondering what it might contain, he glanced back at the letter and began to read, his heart pounding with each word. 

Dear baby boy

I'm sorry I haven't written to you for a month, but it's been hard to get to you with all the surveillance in your home. Please know that I'm still here, watching over you from a distance.  I know you have been scared since you received those photos, and that's why your family has been trying to keep my letters from reaching you. But don't worry, I made sure you finally received this one.   Every step you take and every move you make, remember that I am always nearby, keeping watch. You may feel fear, but know that you are never alone, and my presence is a reminder of that.   Every time you go outside, I see your darting eyes searching, trying to spot me, but it's useless. I am a forgettable face hidden among the shadows, watching over you without drawing attention.   I got you a gift—did you like it? I know you've been searching for Miss Cupcake, and I know you were sad, but don't worry, I found her and I took her heart so I could give it to you. 

Her fur was so beautiful, shining a bright black, and I almost didn’t kill her. Almost.   Call the cops again, Loki, and next time it will be your boyfriend's heart delivered to you. Consider this a warning—I'm always watching.

With Love Your secret admirer