Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

He was going to die.

Unlike any person in his situation, he was extremely calm. He kept his eyes closed, accepting his fate as he went plummeting downwards at nearly a thousand miles an hour to some unknown destination. He wanted death; he craved it at this moment. 

I could have done it father!

No, Loki.

Those words had been a dagger to his heart. He’d done everything to prove himself to his mother and father. No, not father. He’d never refer to Odin as his father again. Nothing he ever did for that man would be good enough and Odin had made it clear that Loki would never live up to his expectations. Loki had purposefully killed Laufey, his own father, to prove that his loyalties lay with Asgard. That Asgard was his home and Thor, Frigga and Odin were his family, regardless of how they came to be. But Odin hadn't accepted that. Now, Loki had killed the only blood in his family line and that sacrifice wasn't enough for the great Odin.

With his father’s final rejection, he let go of everything. He was going to stop trying to fighting to be accepted. He was never treated equally, nor would he ever be. Nothing he ever did would be good enough.  He would never be good enough, so what was the point of knocking himself out? They wanted him to know his place, clearly they wanted him beneath them.
He broke thought the atmosphere of a planet, the impact nearly knocking him out. He opened his eyes and turned, looking downwards as the ground rushed up to meet him. If he was lucky, the impact would kill him.

KA-BOOM!!!

That explosion was the one thing Mara Wallingford was aware of as she was jarred out of a deep sleep. It had been one of the few nights she’d fallen asleep peacefully, only to awaken to a terrifying sight around her. Her house was swaying on its foundation and there was a thick smell of dirt, dust and even smoke in her room. She bolted upright, drool running down the left side of her mouth and grabbed her cellphone. She dialed 911 as she exited her library, pulling her robe tightly around her body.

911, what is your emergency?

“Address is 19458 Amber Court. It’s a private residence.” She rounded the corner to enter her living room and to her shock, a huge section of her house was demolished. For a moment she was stunned, but she shook herself out of that state of mind. She needed to be alert right now. “I think someone just bombed my house.”

I’m sorry, ma’am. Did you say someone bombed your house?

“Someone bombed my house.” She stated as she stepped cautiously around the corner to see her room had smoke coming from. The ceiling was completely caved in and she could see the stars above. “I need you to send someone right away.”

Police and fire are on the way. Ma’am are you injured?

“No, I’m alright and I’m exiting the house.” 

Do you know what happened?

“No, I was sleeping and I came out to find my living room a shambles! The ceiling to my sunroom has been blown off! There’s glass everywhere!”

Is there anyone there? Did you see anyone?

No.” She spots a large, weirdly shaped, dark object sticking out from a pile of rubble. “I do have security cameras.”

Right ma’am. Now, have you left the building?

“Not yet.” She kneels and looks down and she sees that the weird object is someone’s leg. “I found someone.”

What was that ma’am?

“I found a body.” She stated.

You found a body?

“Yes.” She sets down her cellphone and starts pulling the rubble off the body. “He’s buried under the ceiling!”

Paramedics are on their a minute away. Is he breathing?

“I can’t tell!” she lets out a yelp as a chunk of glass breaks off in her palm. “Damn it!”

Ma’am, are you alright?

“Just a piece of glass and stop calling me, ma’am.” She states as she shoves the wooden beam off his chest, releasing another cloud of dust into the air as she began tearing at the huge chucks of drywall and wood, ignoring the blood dripping down her hand.

Ok. Is he breathing?

“I don’t know yet! Just wait a minute!” Slowly, but surely she clears off his chest. It isn’t rising or falling. She grabs the cellphone and moves it so it’s near his face. “I don’t think he’s breathing.” She places her finger on his neck. “I’ve got a pulse. Starting CPR.”

Ok, are you---

“I know how to do CPR!”

Ma’am the police and fire department are at the gate. They need the---

“9182!” She leans forward and breathes air into the man’s mouth. The man, suddenly came to life and bolted up with a gasping breath. “He’s conscious! Don’t move!” She gently pushes him back onto his back. “Sir, you’ve been hurt. You can’t move until the paramedics get here!”

He looks up at her, his green eyes showing signs of confusion as he demands. “Who the hell are you?”

Typical male response, bellow because he’s in pain. “Mara Wallingford. And you?”

He opens his mouth, closes it and the confusion goes to panic. “I can’t remember.”

Ok, so he’s confused too. “It’s alright.” She says gently. “You must have hit your head.”

“I can’t remember anything!” He ran his hands through his hair, inhaling deeply. “Nothing!”

“Easy!” She reaches for his hand to console him and he instantly latched onto her hand. “You’re going to be fine.”

“Miss?” She holds onto the stranger’s hand as the fire department enters. “We’ll take over from here.”

He looked at them indignantly and shouts at them. “Who the hell are you!?”

“Easy, easy.” She said. “They’re the fire department.”

He frowned. “The what? Why is there are department for fires?!”

“You’ve been injured, you need help.” He looked dubiously at them as one of the firemen pulled her hand away from his to check his pulse.

She stands up and a fireman grips her hand and escorts her away. The man instantly starts protesting he looks very confused almost as if nothing looks familiar to him. She looks back at him, not knowing why she’s not feeling angry towards him. Truthfully, she’s just stunned that he’s still alive. His clothing are strange, almost as if they were something out of a fantasy movie. Like a darker version of David Bowie in Labyrinth. God, she hadn't thought about that movie in years!

Two paramedics take her vitals and start asking her questions as they put pressure on her wound to staunch the bleeding. She answers them simply as she watches the rest of the team wrestle with the stranger. He’s being anything but cooperative and she feels a surge of anger as they strap him down and inject him with something to help calm him down so they can transport him safely.

“Miss? We’re going to taking him to the hospital.” The captain says with a shake of his head. “He’s clearly not in his right mind.”

She nods. “I’ll go along too. See if I can keep him calm.”

“Get yourself checked out while you’re in there. Your vitals are all good and you show no signs of any additional trauma, but best to be safe.” She nodded. “Do you know who he is?”

She shrugs and says. “No idea.”

The man was still weakly yelling threats as the paramedics loaded him into the back of the ambulance. She exhaled and climbed into the back and sat opposite him while he pitched a fit over them checking his vitals. She faintly smiled and reached for his hand causing him to still.

“They’re just doing their job. Calm down and be quiet.”

He glowered at her. “You can’t talk to me like that.”

“And you can’t behave like that, so lets both be civilized and say nothing.” To her surprise, he actually remained silent for the rest of the trip to the hospital. He dozed off, but he didn’t release her hand in his unconscious state. She exhaled and leaned back and tried to figure out what her next steps would be regarding this very bizarre turn of events this evening.

Chapter Text

Mara sat in the waiting room for an hour before going to search for the stranger. In truth, she didn’t know why she was. Either he’d destroyed her house or he’d run in for safety from someone. Either way, it was probably a bad idea to go in search of him, but her curiosity was peaked now. She immediately figured out which room he was in because she could hear him and others yelling loudly. His voice, naturally, was the loudest. 

“How dare you!” She pushed the door open to see him struggling against two orderlies. “Get your hands off me!” The men slammed him against the wall and the female nurse went to inject him again.

“Hey!” She shouted, causing all four of them to still and turn towards her. “What the hell is going on in here!?”

“He tried to stab me!” The stranger declared, jerking his head towards the orderly. “And this one tried to put that sleeping liquid inside me again!”

“I was trying to draw some blood!” The nurse stated. “He wouldn’t allow it!”

“You wouldn’t say what for!” He snapped. 

“Alright, both of you calm down now.” She exhaled deeply, clearly he had a right to be upset at this time. “Look, let him go. If he doesn’t want his blood drawn, it is legally his right. Did he sign any papers giving you consent to take blood?” No answer from them. “I thought not. Now let him go.” 

The nurse cleared her throat. “He has no guardian or anyone who has power of attorney. The state---

“He’s not Frankenstein’s creature!” She stated firmly. “Now, let him go!”

They all glowered at her as they released him. He wiped off their touch as if they were beneath him. “Thank you.” He stated as he strode rapidly towards her. “You’re the only person with sense around here.”

“Don’t hold your breath.” She cleared her throat and inquired. “Now, what’s the official prognosis?”

“He’s got amnesia. We’re not sure how though. He’s suffered no injures, internal or external.” Her eyes widened in surprise. “Not a cut on him.”

“Anything on the CT?”

“Clear.”

“I want my clothes back, this instance!” He states as he jerks on the hospital gown. “I want to leave!”

“And go where?”

He stilled before stating. “I don’t care, but any place but here!”

“We can’t just turn him out into the streets!” The nurse said

She exhales and nods. “Fine. I’ll take him back with me and put him up somewhere.” She turns to him and inquired. “If you don’t object, that is?”

“I don’t.” He stated.

She nodded. “You can stay at my place while you figure out what you’re going to do.”

Miss,” one of the orderlies stated. “he was wearing body armor.”

“So?” she states. “This is the twenty-first century. Surely, you’ve seen stupider things than a man who's in body armor! We can’t even get half of our youth to pull up their pants!” she inhaled. “I am tired, I have to deal with the police tomorrow and I’m not in the mood for more arguments. You can release him into my care, with his permission, of course.”

“Yes!” he stated. “God, yes.”

She nods. “I’ll sign the papers. If anything goes wrong with him, I’ll call 911.”

“We don’t think it’s in his best---

“I don’t care.” She said firmly. “You already said the tests were clear. He’s not been assigned any medication and he’s not in the ICU. Therefore, you can’t hold him and experiment on him simply because he hasn’t injured himself. I can send my lawyer down here. His own mother died due to hospital negligence,” everyone shifted uneasily. “so, he loves dealing with hospitals.” They all exhaled and filed out of the room. She nodded as she said. “Get dressed. I’ll be waiting outside for you.” He nodded and she stepped out. Ok, this, was not how she thought the evening was going to go.

He felt strange. He didn’t know what was going on. He knew nothing and this whole thing was terrifying. He didn’t feel like he belonged here and when he got dressed, he felt like he belonged here even less. He came out of the room and everyone stared at him. he was taller than everybody around and it was obvious.

“Over here.” He turned to look down at the tiny woman. She had to be a foot shorter than him. She had dark brown hair and an extremely pale complexion. Her eyes, he stepped closer to peer at her eyes. She frowned and took a step back. “What are you doing?”

“Are your eyes purple?” He asked.

She exhaled and seemed to relax a little. “Yes, they’re violet.”

He nodded. “Violet. That’s…I don’t think I’ve seen that before.”

“Less than 1% of the world have violet eyes.” She stated. “I’m one of them.” She studied him a moment and asked. “Do you remember your name?”

he shook his head. “No.”

She nodded. “Right, I’m going to call you Thomas until you remember.”

He didn’t like that. “I don’t like that name.”

“I don’t care.” She stated, causing him to arch a brow. “I’m exhausted and you’ve somehow managed to destroy my house. So, until you remember your name, you’re getting stuck with Thomas.” He could only stare at her. She exhaled as she turned away. “Blame the Peaky Blinder advertisement on the TV. Come on.” She ordered him around, as if he were some kind of animal. He opened his mouth to protest, but she snapped her fingers. “I’m tired, my head is killing me and we’ve got a hotel to check into.”

He decided to go with her. He didn’t want to stay here with these people and their needles. She was familiar to him. She was…the only thing that was familiar to him in this world. Everyone glowered at him, but they didn’t approach him. He picked up his pace so he could fall into step alongside her.

He cleared his throat before saying “I should like to meet this lawyer of yours that’s got everyone scared of you.”

“So would I.”

He frowned and looked at her in confusion. “What does that mean?” 

“It means,” she stated as she walked through this doors that opened with a whoosh, startling him for a minute “that he’s a figment of my imagination.”

He blinks. “You lied to them?” Strange, she kept a straight face. He thought, at least, when people lied that their expressions tattled what was going on in their heads.”

“No, I write.” She said as she looked at this…strange device in her hand. “So, I made up a character to suit my purpose. He exists, however, I’ve used him in a novel, so he practically exists.”

He frowned. “Novel?”

“It’s a book.”

He looked down at the device in her hand. “And that?”

“It’s a cellphone. I’ve ordered us an uber.” He had no clue what that was. She cleared her throat. “An uber is a car that comes and gives you a ride to your destination the way a taxi does.”

He frowned again. “Taxi?”

She shook her head. “God, you hit your head hard didn’t you?” 

“Yes.” She glanced up at him out of the corner of her eye. She was nervous around him despite her temper. He cleared his throat and asked her. “What do you intend to do with me?” she frowns at his choice of words. “I am in your debt and will remain in that state for a while.”

She yawned. “I don’t know or care. It’s late, I’m tired and will deal with everything tomorrow.” She exhaled deeply as rubbed her brow. “Here’s the car.” She stepped forward and promptly dropped her cellphone thingy. She groaned and knelt down to pick it up, but he beat her to it. Their hands touched and she jumped back like she’d been punched.  “Don’t touch me!” she said firmly. “Don’t ever touch me! Do you understand?”

He nodded. “Yes.”

That made no sense to him. She’d dropped something, he’d picked it up because it was the right thing to do, wasn’t it? Why should she mind if their hands brushed? As if she knew what he was thinking, she said without looking at him. “I don’t…like to be touched.”

That made no sense to him. These… ‘doctors’ had touched her. So, why should his touch bother him? Why did he care? He nodded. “Alright.”

She opened the door to her Uber and got in. He studied her and then went around to the other side and got in. It smelled…strange. He didn’t know what this smell was. He cleared his throat. “What’s the smell?”

She sighed and said. “Weed. Last passenger who was in here smoked marijuana.”

He nodded at her. He didn’t know what that was either. But she looked exhausted and her face looked a sickly shade of green. She rolled down the window and began breathing out the window. He looked at the driver and asked. “Is there anyway to make this smell go away?”

“No.”

“It’s making her sick!” he stated.

“Not my problem.” The man said, causing his blood to boil. She was sick!

He looked at the door, there were many unfamiliar buttons on the side. “Put all the windows down.” He ordered. The man didn’t make a move, so he snapped. “Roll down the windows now, or I shall come over there and teach you a lesson in manners that you’ll never forget.”

“Look here,” the man said. “you can’t---

“I’m fine!” She inhaled deeply. “The hotel is 2 minutes away. Just drive, please!”

the man made a face. “Don’t throw up in my car!”

She coughed. “I won’t.” 

He didn’t believe her. He watched her as she struggled to breathe and cradled her head. Somehow, she was able to hold down the bile until the car stopped in front of the hotel. She jumped out of the car, raced to a bin and vomited in it. He got out and moved towards her. The driver was saying something about shutting the doors, but he didn’t care. He stood beside her, he wanted to touch her, but knew she didn’t want to be touched. In the end, his instincts won out and he pulled her hair back from her face. She made a sound before continuing with the vomiting. After a minute, she let out a moan and rested her head on her arms. She inhaled and exhaled deeply.

After a minute of silence, he asked. “What can I do to help?”

She let out a bitter laugh before saying. “Nothing.” After a minute, she spit in the bin and then wiped her mouth on her sleeve. She cleared her throat and said. “Let’s go.”

He walked, keeping his hand near her back. She moved calmly, but he wasn’t sure. They got strange looks in the huge building that they entered. They were given two keys and he followed her into something called an elevator to the tenth floor. She gave him a flat ‘key’ and showed him how to enter the room. He had so many questions for her, but she was struggling to stand upright. She then hobbled towards her room, which was next door and entered it.

There was a loud sound from her bed hitting the wall and he’d figured that she’d just dropped into the bed. She wasn’t well and he didn’t know what to do for her. She said that there was nothing for him to do and while he wanted to believe her, part of him told him to help her. He just didn’t know how. He sat down on the bed and tried to gather his thoughts together, however, it was hard to get his thoughts together when there was nothing in his head. It was all a blank, like everything had been erased. 

The room was mostly empty, apart from a few strange contraptions. He stood up and moved around the room, trying to familiarize himself with everything. He didn’t know what they were or what they did, but had time to learn what they did and how everything worked. He figured out water came out of things and decided that it’d be a good idea to wash himself from the smoke and mud. He left a towel around his waist before exiting the room. As he laid down on the bed, he could hear her softly crying through the wall.

What the hell was wrong with her and why could no one help her? Why did she simply accept that she had to live in such misery? 

Chapter Text

She was awoken by a frantic knocking. She groaned. Her head was still splitting from the migraine. She looked at the clock and saw that it was nearly noon. It was probably Thomas.

“Miss?” Someone who’s voice she didn’t recognize, was outside the door. “Are you alright?”

She nodded, although they couldn’t hear her. “She’s not answering!” That, of course, was Thomas. “What the hell is wrong with you!? Why can’t you go in and get her!?”

“We’ve got to explore all possibilities before, hey!” Her door clicked open and she groaned as light entered her room. She moaned and covered her eyes. “Someone get security.”

“Shut up.” The man growled, his voice low and threatening. “Hey?” she felt his hand on her and she jumped, shooting him a dark look. He looked worried, at least, that’s what she could see. “I’ve been calling you. You wouldn’t answer.”

She then realized that he didn’t understand what was going on. She exhaled as she said. “I’ve got a migraine.”

He frowned. “What’s that?”

“My head…is going to explode because it’s bright outside.”

“What can I do?”

“Just…let me wake up.”

“We’re so sorry,” someone, possibly the concierge. “your boyfriend said that you weren’t responding and we came up to check on you.”

“I know and he is not my boyfriend.” She murmured. The last thing she needed was rumors of her 'love life' stirring up the media. “If there’s sunglasses down in the shop, charge me for the biggest and darkest pair, please.”

“Yes Miss, our sincere apologies.” He cleared his throat. “Sir, get out.”

“Don’t touch me!” He snapped. “You insignificant worm!”

She shouldn’t smile, but the fact that he’d chosen to use ‘insignificant worm’ instead of profanity, was very amusing. “It’s alright. He can stay.” She exhaled. “Look, order breakfast or lunch if you’re hungry.”

“I’m not.” He knelt beside her and placed a hand on her forehead. “You’re ill.”

“I’m tired. Eat and I’ll be ready to go.”

“No.” He said firmly. “You’re in no position to go anywhere.”

She chuckled dryly as she said. “I’ll be fine. Use the phone to order breakfast.” He got up with a huff and went into the bathroom. She heard water running and she tried to force herself to sit up, but the pills she’d taken hadn’t really helped. Suddenly, there were two damp cloths placed on her. She gasped as the cold seeped into her head, shocking her for a moment. 

“Sorry,” he said softly. “you’re on fire right now.”

“I’m fine.” She assured him. “I haven’t woken up yet.”

He exhaled and said. “My room has a tub. You could take a cold bath.”

She didn’t like that idea, however, she could see there was no malicious intent in his eyes. They were a strange shade of green, almost the exact shade of emeralds. “I’m fine.” She inhaled. “Just…go get your breakfast and when you’re done, if you could bring the sunglasses…I'd really appreciate it. That way, I don’t have to step out in the lights.”

His eyes narrowed. “Lights hurt your eyes?”

“Yes.”

He nods and exhales. “Alright. I can do that.”

She nodded. “Thank you.” He stood up, his green cape swishing dramatically behind him. She shook her head. “We’ll take you somewhere to get you something to wear.”

He looked at her and said. “I’m in your debt, I don’t wish to be a further inconvenience to you.”

“Well,” she yawned. “I’m sure we’ll find someone who knows you.”

“How?”

she exhaled as she said. “I’ve got a private detective. I’ll hire him to look into what happened, alright?”

he nodded. “Thank you. I am sorry about this.”

“It’s alright.” She exhaled. “I’ll try to be up in 30 minutes.”

“Take your time.” He assured her. “I can wait.”

She just smiled as he carefully left her room, making sure not to let too much light in. After ten minutes of quiet, she forced herself to get to her feet and she exhaled. It was too hot today. She moved towards the bathroom, leaving the lights off and washed her face. She then went to the shower and washed her hair. She never even bothered to turn on the hot. She took a cold shower, enjoying the sensation of the cold water. She exhaled in relief as enough of the pain subsided for her to be able to function. She then pulled out her cellphone and dialed up her private detective, William Walker. He’d helped her a lot over the years.

Hey Mara. He said with a laugh in his voice. So, who or what do you need me looking up today?

She laughed deeply as she said. “I’m not sure to be honest. Someone blew up my house last night.”
He snorted. Funny Mara.

“I’m not joking.” He went still. “I’m dead serious. My living room and sunroom are a wreck.”

Are you kidding? Walker asked, practically falling out of the red velvet, rotating chair she’d bought him last year for Christmas. Are you hurt?

“I’m fine.” She said. “However, I’m not sure how, but there was someone in the house.”

Who?

“I don’t know. He’s got total amnesia and I had to pull him from the rubble last night.”

Did he do it?

“I don’t know, but he’s with me and---

Mara, he exhaled sharply. you’ve got to start taking better care of yourself! This man may have been involved with blowing up your house and…why is he even with you?

“Because he’s got no one.” She sighed. “Look. Can you meet me at the house in an hour? He needs some clothes, so I’m taking him shopping.”

Why does he need clothes?

She smirked before stating. “Because, he’s dressed up like David Bowie in ‘Labyrinth’ or something medieval. That’s all he’s got to wear.”

There’s a long silence and he said. I am so glad that I don’t have anything to investigate because you, always, bring me the most bizarre cases. Right, I’ll go there but I may get early to look at the house.

“You’re a doll Walker, thank you.” She hung up, tucked her phone in her purse and then exhaled, mentally preparing to be blinded by the fluorescent lights. She stepped outside…and he jumped up from the floor. She frowned. “What are you---

“I got your sunglasses.” He explained as he held them up. “Here.”

Ok, his chivalry was either genuine or a game to put her off her guard. She exhaled as she took the glasses from him. “Thank you.” She exhaled. Yes, people who wore sunglasses inside were douche bags, but she didn’t care. No matter what Dean Winchester said. She exhaled and said. “After we check out, I’m taking you to the store and try to find you something decent to wear.” 

He nodded and he stepped close beside her. She didn’t like how he was so close to her. He was at least a foot taller than her and she didn’t like it. She felt like a cat trying to stay away from a giraffe. The only difference was, this giraffe was like a baby giraffe and it needed her help. He was harmless enough and she was fairly certain that Walker would be able to rehabilitate him to this strange and curious world. In a way she envied him his innocence, he had no idea just how dark and cruel a world he was walking around in.

He exhaled deeply as he came out of the dressing room in a gray-blue button down shirt and black trousers. She was sorting through a variety of ties. She was still wearing those sunglasses of hers indoors and people were staring at her, but she ignored them. She moved as if she was some kind of queen and everyone was beneath her. She’d found everything for him, socks, shoes, underwear, shirts and trousers. He hated jeans and shorts, which she actually appreciated. She had great taste, recommending gray, blue, brown and some shades of green. It felt strange to get out of the garments he’d been wearing. It was like he was leaving a part of him behind, still, he could take the clothes with him.

She glanced in his direction and he turned, his hands spread to the side. “Will this suit?”

She nodded. “Yes. Take the tags off, so they can ring them up at the register.”

Calm, cold and collected. Yes, those were three words he’d use to describe her. “Alright.” As he removed the tags, he said. “I don’t know your name.”

“You don’t know yours either.” She said as she walked up to him, holding up some ties she’d selected. “No reason for you to know mine.”

“Well,” he stated trying to keep this burst of irritation from his voice. “you’re buying me clothes, having a private detective try to find my family and then, you rescued me from those doctors.” She nodded and turned away, putting some ties in the cart and the others back on the shelf. “I know nothing else about you, apart that you get these headaches---

“Migraines.” She corrected him.

He did NOT like to be corrected, but, something inside him urged him not to yell at her. Maybe he had a mother somewhere, that explained him keeping an apparent temper in check. “Migraines and you don’t like to be touched.” She went still at those words. He exhaled deeply before asking. “Why won’t you tell me your name?”

she exhaled and shook her head as she turned and moved to where the shirts are hanging. “If it’s such a big deal to you, it’s Mara.”

He frowned. “Mara?”

She sighs as she states. “It means ‘bitter’ or ‘sorrow’.”

He couldn’t understand her, so he had to make an educated guess. “You…don’t like your name?”

She shakes her head as she says. “It’s just a name. No need to make a big deal about it.”

He lets out a faint laugh. “I just wanted to know your name, that way I can talk to you.”

“You don’t need to talk to me.” She said. “This whole thing between us is strictly business.”

His brow arched. “Business?”

“It’s not personal.” She said. “I lead a solitary life, which I prefer. You, are an unwanted equation in my life.”

He glowered at her. “Unwanted?”

“Unneeded.” She corrected as she turned back to him. “Do you require anything else?”

he studied her for a moment. She was strange. It was as if there was a wall up around her. He didn’t ask her to help him, she chose to help him, which was strange because she’d put up a brick wall around herself. Someone had hurt her and they’d hurt her deeply. He didn’t know he could know or understand the feeling, but somehow he did. He decided not to push her. He shook his head. “No.”

She nodded and said. “Let’s go.” He pushed the cart to the front of the store as her phone rang. She exhaled and exhaled. “Right, what have you got for me Walker?” She suddenly went stiff and she demanded in a low voice. “What the hell do you mean shield is at my house?!” she turned to him and snapped. “What did you do!?”

He had no answers for her and he couldn’t help but wonder why she thought that he’d have any answers for her when he had none for himself.

Chapter Text

Mara, Walker said sharply. They will take everything of yours. What do you need? I’ve grabbed your laptop, notebooks and put them in my car---

“I’ll just sue them---

It won’t work like that! What do you need? They’re trying to get past the gate. So, I’ve got 2 minutes.

“My typewriter.” She exhaled. “Uhmm, that’s everything.”

Are you sure?

She inhaled deeply. “There’s nothing of value. No family mementos and all the awards I’ve won are at the other house. I will kill myself if I have to write that damn novel again!”

I’ve got it; I’ll call you when I’m out.

She hung up and Thomas asked. “What’s a typewriter?”

“Just move!” She stated causing him to glower at her. God, he could sulk. “From the moment you came into my life, you’ve turned everything upside down.”

“Now, hold on---

“And what is S.H.I.E.L.D doing at my house!?” She stated. “But of course, you wouldn’t know because you can’t even remember your name!”

“I didn’t ask for this!”

“Well neither did I!” She exhaled sharply.

“You’re going to make yourself sick arguing like this.”

“I’m already sick.”

“Well you’re going to make yourself sicker!” he stated. “And stop raising your voice to me! You’re the one who insisted on dragging me out to this…shopping exhibition----

“Because you’re the one strutting around in some goblin king cosplay!”

he glowered and he said. “That is offensive, goblins are hideous.”

“Tell that to David Bowie.”

He stared at her at asked. “Who the hell is---

“Never mind!” She exhaled as she said pulled out her phone. “Excuse me.” 

She dialed up her realtor, Gwen Standish and exhaled. As always, Gwen picked up with a bubbly personality. Hello! How are you doing?

She exhaled as she said. “Short story. Someone bombed my house or something like that, some guy who’s involved is with me and he has amnesia and S.H.I.E.L.D is all over what remains of my house. Walker has gotten my laptop and everything out, and I'd like for you to try to sell my house as is.”

There’s a long silence and Gwen said. Are you alright? Do you need help?

She exhaled as she said. “I need to get to my other home, but that means chartering a plane---

I’ll get you on one. Gwen said. I’ll get you back home where it’s all quiet so you can rest. We’ll talk about the house later. All right?

She exhaled deeply. “Thank you Gwen. You’re a true friend.”

I’ll text you the details. Do you have your pills?

“No, they were in the house.”

I’ve got some at my place. I’ll make sure they’re at your house and the windows will be drawn.

“Thank you very much Gwen. I’ve got to go. He didn’t have any clothes and we’re shopping for him.”

I’m dying to know how that’s going, but we’ll talk later since he’s probably right there, am I right?

“Yes.” She exhaled as she told Gwen. “I’m sorry if I sound snappish---

I know. Thomas snorted in the background. You’re under a lot of stress and your head is probably killing you now. I’ll see if I can get you out of there within two hours. I told you Colorado would be too desolate for you.

“But not desolate enough for S.H.I.E.L.D, apparently.” She sighed and rubbed her head. “We’ll talk later, alright?”

yes. Goodbye.

“Bye.”

She hung up and Thomas was studying her. “You’re selling your house?”

“Yes.”

“Look,” he exhaled. “maybe once we find out who I am I can fix it---

“I don’t want the memories.” She stated. “I also don’t like the idea of government agents swarming all over my house, checking the security tapes and touching everything. So, I’m selling the house.”

He exhaled as he said. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I have another house I can go to.” That’s all they said until they reached the checkout. Because they were at Ross, his clothing total was just under $2,000 which wasn’t a big deal for her. She had a ton of money and since she was going to die alone anyway her money needed to go somewhere. And at least he had good taste when it came to clothes. If he’d insisted on dressing like a slob, then she’d have minded. They just finished loading everything up into the car when her phone rang. She answered it as she sat down. “Walker? What news?”

well, I got away from the house, they did question me and I said you’d hired me to investigate the bombing. They believed me and let me go. Can you meet me at my place?

“Yes, we’re about 15 minutes away. I’ll see you shortly.”

Hey, if you pass a McDonalds---

“I know, the big mac combo and an Arnold Palmer.”

You’re the best. I’ll see you shortly. Bye.

“Bye.” She exhaled and looked at him. “I bet you’re hungry too.”

He shot her a cold look. “You’re under no obligation to feed me.”

“Fine. You can starve to death for all I care.” With that, she started the car and drove towards Walker’s office. Hopefully, he could find whoever this man was and he’d be off her hands shortly.

“Will you just eat!” She snapped at him.

He frowned at the food and said. “It burns!”

She sighed and looked upwards. “Great, Gollum, you’re probably paleo or something like that.”

He frowned. “Gollum?”

“It doesn’t matter.” She sighed as she handed him her food. She’d ordered a salad. “Try this, it shouldn’t bother you as much.”

He shook his head. “No, it’s your food---

“It’s fine. I eat burgers as well, but I figured that I'd eat a salad. Go ahead, try it, I haven’t had a bite yet.”

He shook his head. “I’m fine.” She stopped the car, handed him her bag of salad and grabbed the burger out of his hand. “I really don’t think you should be eating this---

“Welcome to America.” She stated. “Everything is coated in chemicals. Eat the salad.”

He frowned. “So, you know this and you eat it anyway?”

“Well, we’re not dead yet. Go ahead, try the salad.” There was no point in arguing with her. She was very, every stubborn. He gave up and he decided to eat the salad. She wrapped his burger up and puts it back in the bag. He shakes his head and takes a bite from the salad. Unlike the burger, there was no burn this time. After a few bites, she asks him. “Is it good?”

“Yes.”

She nods. “Well, that’ll help Walker. You’re sensitive to fast food, maybe you’re allergic to something.”

He shrugged. “Maybe.” 

They continued to drive in silence. He didn’t understand this woman. She was so cold and still, nothing phased her. He wondered what happened to her to make her like this. She turned off into an area and then parked. “We’re here.” She said as she grabbed the bags. “Come on.”

He shot her a look. “Stop ordering me about.”

“Whatever.” She ignored him. He exhaled deeply as she got out of the car. He followed her towards a building. She entered as if she owned the place, went past a bunch of desks and up a flight of stairs. She then pushed into a room without knocking on the door.

“Well,” this older, rotund man with a moustache laughed from behind his desk. “here you are! You are always bringing drama, but it’s about time you bring home a man.”

She laughed dryly. “Ha, ha, ha, not my type, Walker and you know that.” For some reason, he felt slighted by that remark. “Here’s your burger.”

“Thank you my girl.” The man let out a loud belch, which made him grimace. She shook her head. “Now, your stuff is over there.”

“Thank you.” She turned and moved behind him. He turned as she began flipping through some books and stuff. Her face lit up and she smiled as she touched a contraption that he assumed was a typewriter. “You earned yourself a $5,000 bonus for this, Walker.”

“Eh, you brought me food, we’ll call it square.” Walker exhaled and gestured for him to come closer. “So, you’re the one who can’t remember a thing and S.H.I.E.L.D is after.” He offered no answer for that. “Well,” he stood up. “I’m going to take your fingerprints so I can see if you come up.”

He didn’t know what that was. “Alright.”

“He’s probably Paleo,” Mara said. “he said the burger was burning him so I had to give him my salad.”

Walker made a face. “Just what I need.” He said nothing as Walker walked him over to a corner, rolled his thumb in some ink and pressed it to some paper. He then had him clean his fingers. He then made him get his weight, height and he took photos of him. “Right.” Walker sat down at his computer and began to look at things. He gestured towards his books and said. “Go ahead and help yourself to something, its going to be a while.”

He nodded and moved towards the bookshelves. “Also,” Mara added. “he appears to be one of those richer kids, as you can tell by his taste. No t-shirts, sneakers or shorts.”

“Good!” Walker proclaimed. “Maybe there’s a rewards for him.” He shook his head and continued looking at the books. “Hey, don’t mind the ribbing or her. It takes her time to warm up to people.”

He gives Walker a look. “I don’t have a hundred years to spare her.”

Walker chuckled and shook his head. “You’re funny too. Good to know.” 

He picked up a big book, collections of William Shakespeare and decided to read that one. He opened it up and decided to start with ‘Much ado about nothing’. He wasn’t sure why, but the title sounded intriguing. He certainly wasn’t expecting to be such a delightful story. It was good and he enjoyed it. Beatrice's prickly nature reminded him of Mara. So, he deduced that someone had broken her heart like Benedict and she'd never recovered. That's why she was ill at ease around him. He was halfway through Act 4 when Walker finally spoke.

“Right, Mara, I’ve got some news,” he exhaled. “pertaining to this young man.”

“And? What is it?” she inquired. “Was I right?”

“Well,” Walker removed his glasses. “I have no clue because you see…he doesn’t exist.” His head as well as Mara’s shot up at those words. “His fingerprints don’t turn up in any data base, which is good, it means he doesn’t have a criminal record. Now, there are no missing persons matching his description anywhere in the United States. This means, we’re looking at a possible kidnapping from somewhere overseas. That would also explain why the food burned. Not because it was paleo, but because they treat their food differently over there, it’s less processed.”

Mara cleared her throat. “What are you saying?”

“I’m saying, that for now, he’s just dropped out of thin air and there’s nothing we can do about it." Ok, he wasn't expecting anything this complicated and from the look on her face, neither was she. She was growing pale. "It’s going to take me time, I’ll have to contact my friends, see if there’s anything we can find out.”

“How long, do you think that will take? A few days?”

he exhaled before saying. “Mara…we’re looking at months. You two are stuck with each other for the time being.”

Chapter Text

Mara’s heart dropped at those words. “What did you just say?”

Walker exhaled. “This is going to take time. I have no idea who he is or where he’s from. And as you’ve pointed out, he does carry himself well. He’s clearly well read and educated, because I can’t think of any man his age picking up Shakespeare when there’s Playboy magazines right there!” She doubted that Thomas even knew what a Playboy magazine was. “So for all I know, he’s probably the illegitimate of some millionaire or a King who tried having him killed!” She groaned and sank back down into her chair, that burger threatening to make it’s way up from her stomach. He was right; it did not taste as good as she recalled. “I'd keep him here, but you, you’re his best shot.”

She exhaled and asked. “Why me?”

Walker shot her a look. “Because you’re a recluse! When your parents---

“They’re not my parents!” She snapped at him, causing Thomas to jump at her voice. “Don’t ever call them that!”

Walker exhaled. “Well, until I find your biological parents, that’s who you’ve got for now.” She shuddered. No. Karen and Harold West were not her parents and Harold was a child molester. He wasn’t her father, regardless of what Walker said. Any man who put his hands on a kid the way that Harold put his hands on her, wasn’t a father. “What I mean is, it took me 6 months to find you. It may take me slightly longer to find his family. So, your place is the safest place. If I stash him with me, they’ll get ahold of him much sooner.”

She groaned and rubbed her head. “Please, there has to be some other plan.”

“Talk with that realtor friend of yours, but no, there isn’t another plan that I can think of at the moment.”

She exhaled. “Gwen is booking a plane for me---

“Tell her to book one tomorrow. He’s coming with you.”

She shakes her head. “You need ID---

“I’ve already emailed a friend of mine. He should be here in 5 minutes.” Her jaw dropped. “We’re going to create a fake ID for him.”

“That’s illegal!”

“I don’t care!” he said. “He can’t stay here with me, he’ll get picked off!” she snorts and rubs her brow. “Look, just put him up in your guesthouse.”

“It’s unfurnished!”

“Get a bed in there, he’ll be fine.” 

She exhaled deeply and Walker belched again. “God, you’re disgusting.”

“And you’re selfish.” She glowered at him. “He’s got no one. There’s just you and me and if he stays with me, he dies.”
“Enough!” Thomas said as he got to his feet. She and Walker turned towards him. “I’ve encroached on the lady’s space long enough. She doesn’t wish to have her privacy violated, so, you need not keep speaking to her that way on my behalf, especially since I didn’t ask it of you!”

For a long time, she and Walker stared at him. The way he spoke…yes, he was eloquent when the occasion called for it and it certainly did call for it. Maybe it was the influence of Shakespeare, but it was strange to hear him speak like that. She thought on it. She could put him up in the guesthouse. It wouldn’t be that hard. Her house had security doors and bars on the windows, so he couldn’t break in easily.

At that moment, her phone rang and she answered it without looking at it. “Hello?”

Mara? It was Gwen. I booked you a plane; it leaves in an hour.

She exhaled as she said. “Gwen, I hate to do this to you, but…I need a plane for tomorrow. I’ll have a guest with me, he’ll need a ticket as well.”

A guest? She didn’t need to see Gwen’s face to envision the confusion on her face. Who’s coming with you?

She exhaled before stating. “Thomas.”

Thomas who?

She looked at Walker and asked. “What’s his surname going to be?”

Walker shrugged. “I don’t know! Making up names is your job! Not mine!”

She made a face and looked around the room. There was a book, she picked it up and flipped through it. One of the characters surname was Hart. Thomas Hart was alright, but Thomas Hartley sounded better. She cleared her throat and said. “Thomas Hartley.”

Hartley? She asked. Is he English?

She shrugged. “Could be. Look, I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Ok? I’m sorry to put you through this.”

It’s alright. Do you have your pills?

“No, but I’ll be fine. I’ve got sunglasses and I’ll get another hotel for tonight. He’ll need a suitcase for his things and Gwen,” she sighed. “the guesthouse in unfurnished.”

How did you know I needed an excuse to go shopping!? Gwen squealed. What’s the budget!?

She sighs as she says. “Knock yourself out Gwen. Try to keep it intellectual, British and scholarly.”

He like books?

“Well, he lit into Walker like he was Shakespeare himself, so, yes. Perhaps a few bookcases with dozens of classical literature.”

There’s a book sale at the library just down the street. Today’s the final day. I’ll get right on over there.

“Thank you Gwen, I really appreciate it.”

What are friends for? I’ll get going. It’ll be mostly ready for him tomorrow.

“Thank you.” She exhaled and hung up. “Well, that’s taken care of. So get the ID going.”

Walker shook his head. “Thomas Hartley is a stupid name.”

“Then you pick it.” She said as she moved to cuddle up on the couch. “You and your guy need to do your thing. I’ll book another hotel for the night. Tomorrow, we’re getting on a plane to CA.” It was May, so the heat spell hadn’t started yet, so it was going to be absolutely miserable for her. Why oh why hadn’t she found him in September? Six months with a strange male would have been much more tolerable if it was cooler.

The following morning,

He didn’t like this. At first, he’d been anxious about the contraption called an airplane, but once it took off, it felt oddly familiar to him. It was her that he didn’t like. She put up a good front, but she was getting paler and weaker, seeming to melt in the sun. Her skin only seemed to be rosy when she was in a temper. Her skin was white, but now with the flying, she’d gone so pale that she was almost translucent. When he saw her turning translucent, he was concerned. 

Right before they’d left, Walker had grabbed him by the throat and slammed him into the wall. “You put a hand on her or hurt her…and I’ll make sure it takes the sharks ten years to find your body at the bottom of the ocean.”

He had no intention of hurting her, but he sitting back and watching her suffer was killing him. She bit her lip, moaning in complete misery as the plane dipped. “You are in pain.” He said as he fought the urge to touch her. “Tell me what I can do.”

“Nothing.” she whispered. “I have a migraine.” He leaned over and pulled the shades down and called for the stewardess. “Thomas, it’s not worth---

“Stop talking.” He said patiently. “For once, let me try to take care of you.”

“Yes,” the stewardess said with a broad smile on her face. “how may I help you?”

“Yes,” he said with a smile on his face. Clearly that she was interested and while she was a beautiful woman, it was hard to focus on her beauty while Mara was in pain. She’d done so much for him and he couldn’t sit there in silence anymore. “she’s in pain. Is it possible anyone on this plane would have something to relieve her migraine?”

the woman’s facial expression instantly shifted. “I don’t know.”

“Please, find out.” He tried to charm her. “And if possible, I need a cloth, some cold water and ice.”

“I’ll see what I can do.” 

“Sir, I have aspirin.” One of the passengers heard and offered. 

“Thank you.”

She shook her head. “Thomas, really---

“Mara, stop talking.” She groaned. “You’re going to make yourself worse.”

“Don’t tell me---

“Walker told me to take care of you. That’s what I’m going to do.” The stewardess returned with the water, a cloth and some ice. He nodded. “Thank you.” The other passenger approached with a pill. “Thank you.”

“I actually found my pills, topiramate.” She said. “Helps with mine, it may not work, but it will help her sleep.”

“Thank you.” He turned to her. “Mara, open your mouth.” She bit her lip for a moment, but she did. God, she was so stubborn. He placed the pill in her mouth and held the water up to her lips. “Drink.” She did and he had to summon the stewardess for another cup of water. after getting the cloth wet, he folded ice into it and exhaled reluctantly as he said. “This is going to be cold.” The moment he pressed it to her head, she let out a shriek that made everyone in the plane turn around and look at them. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry.”

The stewardess and her friend ran over. “What’s going on?”

The same woman who gave him the pill, spoke up. “It’s alright. Her migraine is really bad, so there’s most likely some inflammation. So, when he touched her with the cold water and ice, he shocked her. That’s all. She’ll be fine, let him take care of her.”

He could do that. He continued to dab at her head while she gripped the arms of her chair. After thirty minutes, her fingers relaxed and there wasn’t any tension in her face or her hands. She was actually asleep and words couldn’t describe how relieved he felt about that. He’d only known her for two days and all he’d seen her do was suffer. To see her like this, relaxed and finally pain-free, filled him with a warmth he didn’t understand. For a moment, he wasn’t sure who needed who more, but he did know that they needed each other. They may not want each other, but they needed each other.

Chapter Text

“Mara.” The voice was far away. “Mara. You need to wake up.”

“You could try slapping her---

“I am NOT,” Thomas snarled. “hitting her!”

“Just to revive her.” The woman said. Mara let out a moan and the same woman exhaled. “Good. She’s rousing.”

“Be patient,” another female voice said. “she needs time to wake up. The pill will make her drowsy.”

Great, just what she wanted. To be drugged and the center of attention. She forced her eyes open, only to squint because of the light outside. She didn’t need this. She yawned as she said. “I’m alright.”

“You were unconscious.” Thomas said. Yes, that’s who the voice belonged to. “You shouldn’t---

“I’m fine.” She grabbed her purse and pulled it up over her head. God, she did not feel good at all, but she was nearly there. She had to get off the plane and order an uber to get home. From there, she could sleep off the effects of this drug. Her head wasn’t killing her, but it still ached and she was dizzy. She got up to her feet and grabbed the seat in front of her. God, it was bright and sunny California day outside. Just her luck. 

“Close your eyes.” Thomas said. “You’re moving too soon.” 

She snorted. “I need to see where I’m going.” Next thing she knew, she was in Thomas’s arms, causing people around her to gasp. She however, let out a shriek the moment he put his hands on her. Panic raced throughout her at his touch. “Thomas, put me down!”

“Keep your eyes closed, the light makes it worse.” He said calmly. “Rest your head on my shoulder. I’ll take care of everything.”

“No,” he ignored her and started to walk off the plane. He had nothing to carry apart from her. “you don’t know where our luggage---

“I already texted your friend. She’s arranged for a car to meet us at the airport.” He said patiently. “They’ll pick up the luggage. Stop fretting, everything is going to be alright.” 

She stared at him. “How did you---

“I used your phone. Her name is Gwen, so, I told her what was going on.”

Her temper flared. “You went through my phone!? That was an invasion of my privacy!”

He could care less as he stated firmly. “I don’t know what I can say to impress on you that your welfare is my priority. I did what I had to do and your friend was happy to help.”

“Ma’am,” one of the older passengers said behind her. “you’ve got one of the good ones.” Mara hated it when older people had to stick their noses in everyone’s business. “Let your husband take care of you.”

“He’s NOT my husband!” She half-spat.

“Yet.” The woman laughed. “That’s not boyfriend material you’ve got there.”

She groaned and ignored the woman. “Get me out of here.”

And he did. She told him to follow the signs to outdoor baggage claim and she knew people were staring at them. He, however, was undeterred and he walked with a purpose. Despite his slim build, he seemed to be quite strong, for he moved with ease, unbothered by people’s gazes and whispers.

When they arrived at the outside baggage claim, she was glad to see that there was a limousine waiting for them and Gwen was dictating where the bags went. When Thomas invaded her phone, he’d invaded her phone. Gwen’s face went still as she saw her being carried by Thomas through the airport. 

“My God,” she hurried towards her. “is it that bad?”

“She was given pills on the plane.” Thomas explained. “She’s not had time to wake up.”

“That’s alright.” Gwen said as she opened the car. “Get her inside. The windows are tinted, so, it’s pretty dark and I already have the privacy screen up. The air is as cold as we can bear it.”

“Thank you.” She said as Thomas set her down in the middle seat. He went around and got on her left while Gwen got in at her right. 

Gwen chuckled as she said. “Well, he’s handsome and polite.”

“Hmm.”

“Like you haven’t noticed.” Gwen said. “Tall, dark and brooding. He opens doors too.” She said nothing as the door was opened and Gwen placed a hand on her forehead. “Yes, you’re overheated. A bath will help as will your pills.”

She shook her head. “I took one, it’s just, I think she’s got the stronger dose.”

“And that makes you sick.” Gwen wrapped an arm around her shoulder and exhaled. “Just rest, we’ll get you home in an hour.”

Might as well be two, considering how exhausted and embarrassed she felt. She knew that Gwen wasn’t going to let her out any questions regarding Thomas. Gwen was a kind person. They’d grown up just down the street and when she’d run away from her ‘family’ Gwen’s parents had taken her in. Her ‘parents’ never even bothered to try and get her back. Well, her ‘father’ had followed them from school one day, but Gwen’s father had threatened him and she never saw him after that.

Gwen was a beautiful girl. At 6 ft, she towered over most men, but that didn’t stop any of the short kings from going after her. Gwen was a strawberry-blonde with dark brown eyes. So dark that it was almost like looking into a pot of melted chocolate. Gwen’s family were circus performers initially until circuses started to get shut down. Gwen was a talented archer as a child, but now, she was a real estate agent who painted on the side. She rarely painted for commission, even though her work was high in demand, she only painted when the mood struck her. Every piece she painted sold for more than it was worth.

“Are the two of you lovers?” Thomas inquired. She groaned in embarrassment while Gwen laughed. “What? It’s not unusual.”

“No,” Gwen said. “we’re sisters, even though we’re not related. And you. You’re name is Thomas, right?”

“For now.” She didn’t need to look at him to know that he was sulking. Gwen was silent a moment before asking directly. “Are you married?”

she groaned as he said. “I don’t think so.”

“You don’t think so?” Gwen laughed. “Why, do you have amnesia?”

“Yes.” He deadpanned, causing her to smirk. 

Gwen stopped laughing before saying. “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize you were the man who’d gotten injured at her house. I thought, well, I hoped that she’d finally brought home a boyfriend.” She groaned in disgust. “Possibly a future husband.”

He chuckled uneasily before saying plainly. “No.”

“I know. I can hope.”

“Gwen’s engaged.” She explained. “So, she thinks that everyone else should be.”

“No, just you, Mara.” Gwen said. “We’ve been friends for nearly 20years and not once have I seen you on a date once.”

“Men are disgusting.” She said quietly.

Gwen exhaled as she ran her hand through her hair. “They’re not all the same.”

“Yes, they are.”

“I beg your pardon.” Thomas stated indignantly.

“You’ll get used to this.” Gwen said. “Mara writes the most popular, erotic novels in this day and age, but doesn’t believe in love at all.”

She yawns. “And I’m going to keep it that way.”

“Hold on,” Thomas sounds confused. “she writes…love stories? That’s her living?”

“They pay the bills.” She murmured. “I can’t help it if people like garbage. No more talks of love and rot. I’m ill enough Gwen.”

Gwen laughed. “Alight, I’ll spare you. Just rest.”

“Will she be alright?” he asked as Gwen came out of Mara’s room. 

When they’d arrived, every single window in the house had been drawn and the temperature lowered to 68 degrees. It felt lovely outside, but it was too much for her apparently. She was a very strange woman. Gwen had said that Mara was very wealthy, but she lived in a small house with a guesthouse at the back. There were high gates and a security guard at the entrance. Whatever she was running or hiding from, she was clearly taking extreme measures to ensure that they never got near her again.

“Yes.” Gwen said with a smile as she gestured for him to follow her to the kitchen. “Mara’s never done well with the heat. Add heat to migraines and that’s a recipe for disaster. Once she sleeps off that pill, she’ll be as good as new.”

“That’s good.” Gwen opened up the refrigerator and handed him a bottle of water. He nodded. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Gwen studied him as he drank. “So, you truly remember nothing?”

he nodded as he confirmed. “I don’t remember a thing.”

She sighed. “Must be difficult, wandering around a world that’s so unfamiliar to you.”

He nods. “It is.”

She yawned. “I’ll take you to your guesthouse. You can rest there.”

“Please.” He said. “I'd like to wait for her to wake up.”

Gwen shook her head. “It’ll be a few hours.”

“I don’t mind.” He stated. “She’s helped me and if I’m there…I won’t hear her if she needs help.” 

Gwen’s face softened as she stated. “You care for her.”

“I don’t.” He stated. “I barely know her.”

“That’s alright, but, I’m warning you. If you hurt her---

“Yes, you’ll kill me. Walker already threatened me.”

Gwen’s eyes flashed as she said. “You’ll be praying for Walker to find you after I slice your cock open and stuff jalapenos in there!”

He frowned. “What are jalapenos?”

She smiled, an innocent smile with wicked intent as she said. “We’re taking you to a Mexican restaurant.”

He ignored that and glanced towards Mara’s room. Everyone was so hostile and protective about her that he couldn’t help but wonder why. To him, she seemed cold and closed off, but she had two people willing to kill for her. There had to be a reason for their loyalty that he wasn’t aware of. “What happened to her?” Gwen frowned at him. “I know something happened. You and Walker wouldn’t be so protective of her if something hadn’t.”

Gwen sighed as she said. “It’s not my story to tell.”

“I know it was bad and it involved a man.” 

Gwen stilled and demanded. “How do you know that?”

“Her nature.” He explained. “She won’t say anything and…I’m at a loss as to why she’s so, cold.”

Gwen looked at him and said. “All I’ll tell you is a man, who was supposed to love and protect her, hurt her very much. It was very traumatic and she’s never trusted anyone since. Those who she does…it speaks highly to your character.” She studied him. “You’re one of the good ones, I can tell.” 

He shook his head as he said. “I don’t know what I am. But…I do know, that I wouldn’t hurt her, not after she’s gone out of her way to help me like this.”

“That’s good to know.” She exhaled. “Alright, I’ll show you to the spare room, but once you’re sure that she’s alright, you go right to the guest house. Alright? No arguing with her.” He nodded as Gwen continued. “She won’t like you being in her house when she wakes up.”

“She doesn’t like me at all.” For some reason, he wanted Mara to like him and he didn’t know why.

Gwen shook her head. “Of course, you’re a man. But don’t worry, it takes time for her to warm up to people in general.” She looked at him questioningly. “I’m not sure how long you’re staying with her---

“Her detective said about six months.”

Gwen’s brow arched, but she nodded. “Right, she should be warmed up to you by then.” He fought back the urge to groan. 6 months? How could he endure this cold and frosty treatment for six long months!? She was a mystery that he wanted to get close to and unravel, but every word that came out of her mouth stabbed him and he wasn’t sure how to assure her that his intentions were honorable. He just wasn't sure why he had intentions towards her.

Chapter Text

It was nearly 3:00 when she was finally able to sleep off the last effects of that topiramate. Finally, her head wasn’t throbbing and she was feeling cool, refreshed even. She removed her clothes and went to the bathroom. She stepped into the cold water, not even bothering to wait for the water to warm up. She then lathered her hair in her honey scented shampoo, letting out a moan of contentment. After rinsing, she dried herself off and went back to her room. She selected a simple, dark-green sundress and then grabbed the glass of tepid water that Gwen had given her. She made a note to call Gwen first thing in the morning and invite her over for lunch to thank her. She also had to pay her back for whatever she spent getting the guesthouse ready for Thomas. God, she’d have to deal with him too. Fortunately, the guesthouse had an intercom, so, no need to talk to him in person.

She entered the kitchen…and was met with the sight of a half-naked Thomas. Well, he had his slacks on, but he was exposed from the waists up. Caught off guard, the glass slipped from her hands and landed on the floor with a crash. He spun around from the sink, dripping water down the floor. Those green eyes of his studied her as he said calmly. “You’re up.”

She couldn’t think of anything to say except. “What are you doing in my house?”

“Gwen let me stay.” He explained. “That way I could keep an eye on you.”

That gave her the heebie jeebies. She didn’t want him watching her. She inhaled deeply before saying. “Well, you can go now.” She knelt to pick up the glass. “As you can see---

“Careful.” He said as he moved towards her. “That’s quite sharp.” That was the exact moment she cut her hand. She inhaled sharply as she dropped the glass, pressing her hand to the deep cut to stop the bleeding. “You’re bleeding.” She drew back and he paused for a moment. He looked at her, as if he were staring into her soul. Then, he spoke softly. “I know that, someone hurt you.” She flinched. Who told him? Gwen? If she did, lunch was definitely off! “I’m not whoever that person was. You’re hurt now and I simply wish to help you. Let me.” His tone was soft and gentle, while she wasn’t sure that she could trust him, even though his tone was reassuring. She bit didn’t know why she did, but she bit her lip and nodded. He took her hand so gently and helped her to her feet. “Let’s get you to the sink.”

“I’m fine.” She said quietly, vexed to find that his touch irritated her. Well, her body reacted to his touch. His touch was gentle and soft, it felt strange to be touched like this by him. She avoided getting touched by men as much as she could. All her doctors were females as was her publisher. Having to interact with him in such a close proximity was challenging. He turned the water on, checking that the water wasn’t too cold before holding the bleeding cut under the water. She hissed as the water poured over her cut.

“Sorry.” He said as he carefully washed the cut. She turned aside as he washed it with soap, hissing as it stung. Then, he washed it again and then he took his shirt, which was in the sink and to her complete shock, tore it half!! Her jaw dropped as he tore it into strips. He was clearly a strong man, despite his slight build. She could only look as he took his shirt and carefully bound her hand. Each movement was careful and methodical, liked he’d done this before.

She licked her lips and said. “There was...a first aid kit under the sink.”

He glanced at her and asked. “A what?”

“Never mind.” She shook her head and watched as he secured the shirt bandage. “Are we sure you’re not a doctor?” 

“Positive.”

“How so?”

“Because if I were, I’d have been able to heal whatever is hurting you.” She froze at his words. She wasn’t expecting words like that to come out of his mouth and they chilled her to the core. His green eyes studied her deeply as he said. “So, I know I’m not a doctor as helping you is beyond my meager capabilities.”

She didn’t like this. She didn’t like the way the room felt. It was close and shrinking. While she hated to admit such a thing, she’d almost say that it felt intimate between them and she didn’t want intimate. She exhaled and pulled her hand free from him and stepped back. “Thank you.” She moved to go back to her room and get dressed, but he grabbed her around the waist, causing her to scream.

He instantly let go of her and stepped in front of her. He pointed downwards and said. “There’s glass.” She couldn’t say a word; she could barely breathe as she was on the edge of hyperventilating. He knelt and picked up a large shard of glass, just inches from her bare feet. “I didn’t want you to step on it.”

God what was it with him!? He was like something out of another time and place. Men in this day and age, they don’t act like this! God, she thought Walker was insane for thinking he could be an illegitimate Prince, but now, she wasn’t so sure with his way of speech and fancy mannerisms. It was all wrong. He moved to the pantry and pulled out the broom. She could only watch as he swept the glass. She didn’t like this feeling and she wasn’t sure how she could bear him being around her for six months. He threw away the glass, used paper towels to clean up the water and then straightened up. For a good minute, they stood there looking at each other, silently reading each other. She saw many things in his eyes. She saw sympathy, curiosity running in his eyes and as always, nothing malicious or dark. She saw pain in his eyes and she shuddered to think he must see when he looks at her.

When he stepped towards her, she said. “I’m going to go order pizza.”

“Mara---

“Won’t take long.” 

She turned and headed for her room and he fortunately didn’t follow her. She got into her room and locked the door behind her. It was only six months, she told herself. She could do this. She’d been avoiding men for years. Avoiding him for six months that, would a piece of cake.

One week later,

“You’re fired!!” he jumped from where he was making breakfast in the corner. When she was quiet, she was quiet. But when she was angry Mara came around the corner shouting into the phone. “No, I don’t want to hear it! it’s been a week of excuses and I have 200 pages that need to be checked!” she made a face. “Then I’ll hire someone else!” she rolled her eyes. “Whatever! Goodbye!” She hung up the phone and snapped. “Bastard!”

he blinked. “Excuse me?”

she sighed as she said. “That’s my proofreader. They’re supposed to come over today and pick up the story, but they’re packing up to go to the beach for the weekend with their boyfriend. Now, I said they could take the book with them and they said they didn’t want to. I said to come and pick it up, leave it at their house so it’d be ready for them. They said, I was infringing on their time!” She snorts and he moves to put the kettle on the stove. She’ll need a cup of tea after this. “It’s their job! It’s like a few hours out of their day. For which, I pay them very well!”

“How much?” he inquired.

“$60 an hour.” She stated. “And other writers pay her $40 an hour. This!” She stated. “This, is why significant others are nothing but problematic! They just waste time.” She rubbed her brow and sighed. “Now, I’ve got to call my editor, on a Sunday, to tell her that I need someone else.”

He cleared his throat and asked her. “What’s a proof reader?”

 “They read the pages I’ve written, fix anything that is spelled incorrectly or isn’t grammatically correct.”

He nods. “Is it something I could do?”

She bites her lip. “Not sure.” She studies him a moment. “You didn’t go to college, but you are exceptionally well-read. I don’t know. Maybe.”

“Also, you wouldn’t have to pay me.” He said. “Since I am living here out of the goodness of your heart.”

She rolls her eyes. “Haven’t you heard? I don’t have one.” She exhaled. “However, for the state of convenience, yes, it would be ideal.” The kettle whistled and he went to make her a cup of tea. “I suppose, I could let you try your hand at it. It’ll be time-consuming.”

He shook his head as he said. “I’ve got nothing but time on my hands.”

And that was true. He’d read most of the books, she’d showed him how to use the TV and work the CD player. She had good taste in music, even if it always sounded like the singers hearts were breaking. He’d taken to tending the garden, cooking and even attempting to make minor repairs. 

She nodded. “Well, I suppose it would keep you occupied.” She exhales. “Alright, I’ll go get the pages.”

“In a minute.” He said as he gestured towards her plate. “I made you breakfast.”

“Thank you Niles.” He glowered at her and she smirked. “It’s from the Nanny.”

“I got that!” He stated. “Eat first.” 

She nodded and exhaled. “I’ll be right back.” 

He shook his head as she walked away. “I don’t know how you’re still alive. You barely eat a thing!”

“You eat everything!” She called over her shoulder. “Except for Mexican!”

ugh, his stomach churned as he remembered Gwen tricking him into eating one. His mouth had burned until Mara had told him to eat a chip with some sour cream. His stomach had HATED the experience. Gwen, had a vicious side to her that he was determined not to get on the wrong side of. Regardless, once his mouth had cooled down he’d refused to eat the nachos, so she’d given him her rice, beans and taquito plate. They were now starting to get to know each other somewhat. Despite Mara’s prickly demeanor, she was a kind person at heart. That’s what baffled him all the more. How could anyone hurt someone like her? It made no sense! She exhaled and came out of her room with a stack of papers and a red pen behind her ear.

“Right.” She hands him all the papers. “Your job is to read these and see if anything is written in correctly. I’ll retype everything---

“Is that something I can do?”

“Possibly.” She said. “We’ll see how impressed I am with your work first.”

“Alright.” He took the papers and the pen from her before saying. “Eat your breakfast. I’ll get this back to you shortly.”
She snorts. “A few hours more likely. Also, Gwen’s taking us out to dinner at 6:00.” He turned towards her and she held up a hand. “It’s a paleo restaurant. You’ll be fine.”

He exhaled. “Thank you.”

She nodded. “No problem.”

He nodded and gestured to the stove. “There’s your cup of tea.” She looked surprised, so he explained. “You’ve been yelling on your phone. The chamomile should help you calm down.”

“Thank you.” She was slightly suspicious, but at least she didn’t dump it down the sink. He took the pen and papers to the couch. He sat down and then began to delve into the mind of Mara Wallingford.

A graphic sex scene was not how he expected the novel to start. His brow arched as he continued reading. For a cold woman, she had a way of lighting a fire in a man. As he read through the explicit material, if Mara had really sworn off men as she proclaimed she had.

Chapter Text

Four months later,

Riinggg!!

Mara exhaled as she looked through the ring camera. It was Thomas, all dressed up and ready to go in a black tuxedo. His shoulder-length black hair was slicked back and tamed for a change. She spoke through the intercom. “I’ll be coming down the stairs in a moment. Come on. The front door’s unlocked.”

Alright. He said into the intercom.

It was strange, but she and Thomas had been able to get find a way of becoming friends with her. She’d fought him every, single, step of the way but he’d broken her walls down just a little bit. Thomas, was as gentle as he appeared. He befriended everyone, even her security guard, Sam who hated everyone liked him. She’d almost been jealous of him on occasion, she hated his ability to charm people so easily. Then he started to charm her and things between them began to change.
It had started when he was spell-checking her book. He did all the grammar and yes, he did it correctly, but he sent it back with ten pages of notes for her. That had stunned her. Never before had her work been questioned. He’d given explicit notes during the raunchy scenes. She hated writing those scenes anyway, especially due to the lack of experience. Thomas, while not remembering anything, seemed to have a lot of experience in that regard. So much that her editor called her up screaming about how steamy the sex scenes were now. That story, ‘The Gangster’s Librarian’ had been sitting at #1 in the New York Times Bestsellers list for 2 months. She was now working on another story, about a princess who finds an amnesiac man in the woods when she falls from her boat. The man would turn out to be an escaped convict from another country in the end, forcing her to chose between him or her country. Who knows? Maybe she’d have the princess marry the convict. That’d be a new twist.

She checked her reflection in the mirror once more. She’d bought a nice forest green dress with beaded, gold appliques that stopped at her waist. She inhaled and adjusted her belt before grabbing her gold purse and walking down the stairs. As she came down, she could hear Thomas talking with her security guard, Sam. They were both laughing at one of the jokes that Sam had said and then he looked up at her. She watched as the laughter died on his face and he just…stared at her. It was strange, he’d never looked at her like this before and it was unnerving. He stared through her and she felt her heart flutter in her chest. She inhaled as she walked down the stairs with her head high. He walked towards her, one hand in his pocket and the other hand extended towards her as if she were a grand lady.

She inhaled deeply as she took his hand to get down the final two steps. She felt her face flush as she tried to avoid his penetrating gaze. But he wasn’t allowing that. He placed one finger under chin and made her look up at him. Her whole body flushed and she shifted away from him. “What are you---

“You look beautiful.” His voice…it was soft, low and husky. “I think…you’re the most beautiful woman that I’ve ever seen in my life.” She didn’t know what to do. he’d touched her many times before. But this…there was something in the air tonight that scared her. He scared her, but this was a fear that was unfamiliar to her. As she prepared to take a step back, but he lowered his hand from her face. She let out a pent up breath that she hadn’t been aware that she was holding. He cleared his throat and held his arm out to her. “I should escort you to the ball, then.”

“Not,” her voice came out as a squeak and she cleared her throat. “not a ball. It’s,” she cleared her throat again. “a charity dinner.”

He nodded. “But you said there’d be dancing.”

“Yes,” she kept her eyes forward as she said calmly. “but we’re not dancing.”

He frowned indignantly. “Why on earth not?”

“I don’t dance.”

“Then I should teach you.”

“No!” she said instantly. She didn’t like this, he was feeling too warm around her. She didn’t like this. “We’re not dancing together.”

“Why not?”

Uhmm, God. She needed a good excuse. “Because there’ll be reporters there and they’re bound to photograph you and---

“I’m escorting you.” He said with a laugh. “They’re going to get a photograph anyway!”

“He’s got you there.” Sam said with a chuckle.

“Regardless, I’m not dancing with you.”

“You will.” He said confidently.

She shakes her head and rolls her eyes. “You’re too arrogant for your own good.”

“Perhaps.” He said as he opened the door and lead her out. “But I truly believe, that we’ll have a good time.” 

“Whatever, green eyes.” She said as they moved towards the private limousine that she’d rented for the occasion. He chuckled as he opened the car door for her and helped her in. She went to tuck her skirt in, to have his hand brush over hers. She jumped a little, but she was starting growing familiar with him and his touch. It’s just she had a slit on that side of the dress, so his fingers brushed her legs. He glanced at her, clearly seeing that she was alright with his touch. She gave him the subtlest of nods. He kept his touch light as he made sure that her dress was safely in the car before closing the door. She exhaled deeply and checked to make sure that she had her fan. “Can we turn up the A/C, please? I don’t want to arrive and be sweating when we arrive.”

“Of course.”

“Thank you.”

She exhaled as Thomas got into the car. “Well, who else will be there?”

“Gwen and her boyfriend, Alex.”

“Ah,” he nods. “I’ll finally get to meet the illustrious boyfriend.” She nodded. “You don’t like him.”

She exhaled. “To be honest, I don’t think he’s strong enough for Gwen, but, she says he makes her very happy.”

Thomas nodded. “Yes, she does seem to need someone to handle her madness.” She laughs lightly and exhaled. He studied her a moment and asked. “Did you take your pills?”

“Yes.”

“Sunglasses?”

she nodded. “Yes. Now stop worrying!”

She wore the sunglasses to help counter the bright lights of the paparazzi. She tried to avoid public events, but this was a charity. She couldn’t get out of it. She just looked like an idiot online afterwards for wear sunglasses. The conversation with Thomas flowed casually until they arrived at the beautiful hall. The English Court was the name of the establishment, for the exterior was surrounded by gardens and fountains. When they arrived, Thomas got out of the car first. She inhaled and exhaled, taking a moment to herself before turning to get out of the car.

Thomas opened the car door and she found herself looking at him. He was wearing sunglasses as well. She shook her head. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“It’s no trouble.” He held his hand out to her. “Close your eyes and I’ll make sure you get inside. Are you stopping for photos?”

she shook her head. “No.”

“Alright, so close your eyes and I’ll walk you straight inside.”

“Thank you.” She closed her eyes and let him guide her over the green carpet. It felt strange, to trust someone that she knew absolutely nothing about.

“So,” he asked as they moved through the crowd demanding to know who he was to her. “are we going to dance tonight?”

she shook her head as she said. “You just don’t give up, do you?”

“One dance.” He stated. “Please.”

“Why?” she asked him directly.  After a long moment of silence, she repeated. “Why should I dance with you?”

“Because it’s dance, almost like a date.”

“We’re not dating.”

“No,” he said. “because if I were…you’d know it by now. Besides, I want to dance with you. Very much so.”

She exhaled and shook her head. “If I let you have one dance, will you stop asking me?”

“That depends.” He said with a smile in his voice.

“On what?”

“How good a dancer you are.”

She shook her head. “I’m not.”

“I find that hard to believe.”

“Why?”

“Because you’re good at everything.” He says. “Seriously. I don’t think there’s anything that you don’t know how to do.”

“Well, you’re about to find out that there’s one thing I can’t do.”

Thomas glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. Something was wrong. Mara had gone stiff for some reason. They’d gotten into the hall alright with the paparazzi yelling at them both. Gwen had been waiting with her boyfriend, this Alex and he hated him. He was one of those tall, muscle men without a thought in his head. He reminded him of his brother, at least, he thought he was his brother. He’d started having dreams, strange dreams. One might almost call them visions. There was a woman, she might be his mother and she was always telling him to come home. He couldn’t come home because he didn’t know where he was. Also, he didn’t want to go home because during these months together, he’d started to form an attachment to Mara.

He didn’t know why or how it had started, but it had. She was so cold and standoffish at first, but when he’d started handling her gently, making sure that she was alright with being touched first, she’d softened a little. She still jumped on occasion and looked at his hand as if she were scared that he’d bite her. However, on nights like tonight, he wondered if it was because she was reluctantly having feelings for him. She still hadn’t told him who’d hurt her, but he’d now he knew that she was responding to him. She needed soft, gentle and patient hands. The men around her, there was no finesse to their courtship attempts.

When Mara set down her glass of champagne, he said. “Dance with me.”

She went a little stiff, but shook her head. “No.”

“Why not?” she inhaled deeply and he exhaled. “Is dancing with me truly so offensive?”

she didn’t look at him. “Dancing is dangerous.”

He could see the sense in that statement. Dancing could lead to falling in love. Falling in love to her was as terrifying as crossing an intersection blindfolded. “Yes, but it’s also fun.” She smirked a little and he stood up, holding his hand out to her. “Come on, just one dance.” She looked at his hand for a long time before accepting. The song was slow and he supposed that it was romantic, but there seemed to be an air of sadness in the music. When he pulled her into his arms, she went stiff. Why was she suddenly stiff in his arms? He looked to see that Gwen and Alex were staring at them. He turned so that they were looking at her back. “Ignore them.”

“But they’re staring---

“Ignore them.” He pulled her close and guided her arm up to drape and arm around his neck. She shivered and he said softly. “It’s alright. There’s just us here, no one else exists. It’s just you and me.” She closed her eyes and he rested her head against his chest. “That’s it. Just…listen to the music.”

She nodded and they both did just that. He wasn’t familiar with this song. He kept his right hand on her back and held her hand in his left. He didn’t move fully with her, he mostly swayed, waiting until she felt comfortable before moving a little bit around the floor. 

Look for the girl with the broken smile. Ask her if she wants to stay awhile. And she will be loved; and she will be loved! 

She inhaled sharply at these lyrics and he held onto her. “It’s alright.”

And she will be loved; and she will be loved! 

Affection and kindness always caused Mara to react the way normal people reacted to a knife getting pulled. She shied away fast and there was like nearly no way to keep her ‘here’ with him at times. He didn’t mind moving patiently and slowly with her. During their time together, they’d grown close. He’d developed feelings for her that he wanted to explore. He wanted to kiss her, taste those heart-shaped lips of hers and see her shiver as he made love to her.

I know where you hide alone in your car. Know all of the things that make you who are. I know that goodbye means nothing at all. Comes back and begs me to catch her every time she falls! She pulled back and looked up at him. Tap on my window. Knock on my front door. I wanna make you feel beautiful.

And he did. He wanted to make her feel beautiful. She was very beautiful with her striking facial features, green eyes and dark hair. He leaned forward a little bit. He wanted to kiss her on the lips, but he knew that would scare her off. So he settled for her forehead. She trembled a little bit, but she didn’t object. He inhaled as he kissed her nose and then her cheek. She was panting rapidly, then she shook her head. “No.”

He exhaled as she pulled away from him. “Mara---

“No.” With that, she turned and ran off the dance floor, leaving him standing there watching as she disappeared. He didn’t know what to do with her. Didn’t know how to make her see and understand that his intentions were honorable. He loved her. He paused and thought about it. Yes, he was fairly certain that what he was feeling towards her was love. But how could you love someone who didn’t want to be loved?

“You need to go after her. “ Gwen said appearing suddenly at his side with her date.

“No.” He shook his head. “If I do, it’ll overwhelm her.”

“You need to talk to her now.” Gwen said. “If you don’t, she’ll have time to build a wall back up again and I don’t want her do die alone when,” Gwen froze and she let out a gasp. “oh, my God.”

He turned towards her to see her pale as a ghost. “What is it---

“Alex,” Gwen said firmly. “go get security. That older woman,” she pointed. “in the lavender dress and purple lipstick. She needs to be thrown out.”

He and Alex frowned. “What’s---

“That’s Mara’s adopted parents.” Gwen said. “They abused her for years. Her father was the worst and,” Gwen gasped and looked around the room. “I don’t see him!”

he didn’t wait. He went after Mara. 

He knew she’d gone out to the garden. So he went out there and listened. He could hear someone crying so he followed that sound. He rounded the corner to see a sight that shocked and filled him with a earth-shattering anger. Mara pressed into a wall and an older, fat man was humping her like a pig in heat. Mara was crying and trying to get free, but he had one hand over her mouth and her arms were pinned behind her in a shoulder lock. Now, he knew why she didn’t trust men of any kind. Because the one man who was supposed to protect her, her father, had hurt and betrayed her deeply.

As he strode towards them all he knew was that he was going to thoroughly enjoy killing this man. His blood was on fore and he was going to tear this man apart!

Chapter Text

Mara hadn’t been outside for two minutes when Harold had grabbed her from behind and slammed her against the wall! She’d been distracted, her guard momentarily let down as she was distracted with thoughts of Thomas and his touch. His touch was unnerving enough, but his kisses…she’d never felt anything so warm and gentle in her life. Now, that she was being assaulted, she found her head going to Thomas a she tried to just ‘get through it’. It had been years since Harold had been able to put his hands on her and she felt sick. She’d already paid them a reasonable amount a year to stay out of her life. But how the hell did they get in here?

Harold reached up under her skirt, pulling at her thong causing her to let out a scream against his hand. She’d been tortured by him for years as he ‘prepared’ her. Karen never knew but if she had, she doubted that she’d care about the things he did to her. “Finally.” Harold breathed as he continued thrusting against her. “You’re all mine, just like you were supposed to be, princess.” She hated it when he called her princess. No princess was ever treated the way that she was. He cackled darkly before saying. “Don’t fight. It won’t hurt for long.”

Suddenly, Harold was wrenched off her and she turned around to see Thomas there! God, she’d never ever, been so glad to see him in her life! Then, shame filled her as she realized that he’d seen her like this. She adjusted her dress. CRASH! She looked up to see that Thomas had thrown Harold into a concrete bench! Thomas was beyond furious, there was a fury in his eyes that terrified her. Harold was letting out grunts of pain as Thomas kicked him in the stomach before repeatedly pummeled him! She just stood there and stared, unsure of what to do at this display of unbridled fury!

A loud pop brought her back to reality as Thomas broke Harold’s jaw! He let out a yell of pain and collapsed to the ground in pain. Thomas spit on his face as she hurried up to him. “Thomas,” she grabbed his arm and he whirled around, his green eyes blazing. She inhaled as she whispered. “enough, please.”

He inhaled raggedly and looked down at Harold’s unconscious form. He knelt and checked for his pulse. “He’s alive. He shouldn’t be allowed to live.” He stated as he picked Harold up by the collar as if he weighed nothing.

“Thomas,” she grabbed his arm and he glowered at her. She wasn’t scared of the glower, she knew that he wasn’t angry with her. He was angry with Harold. So angry that he wanted to kill him and she wasn’t going to let him do that. “if you kill him, they’ll put you in prison for years.” That made him stop and think. “Then it’ll go to trial and everyone will know…what he did to me.”

She couldn’t look him in the eye anymore. After a long moment of silence, he said. “Fine, I won’t kill him.”

She nodded. “Thank you.” He then picked up Harold with what she could only call, with the sheer power of a god, as he held him over his head and threw him in the fountain! The water revived Harold and she could hear him howling in pain and choking on his own blood. “Thank you.”

“I didn’t spare him for his sake. I spared him for yours.” He looked to her, his hair a mess and his suit in disarray. “Did he hurt you?”

She sniffed and shook her head as she admitted honestly. “Not this time.”

Thomas reached out to touch her, but stopped himself. “May I?”

She frowned. “May you what?”

“You’re crying.” She hadn’t realized that she still was. “I wanted to touch your face but, after him, I wasn’t sure if---

“You just rescued me.” she said as tears dribbled down her face. “For God’s sake, why would I be scared of you?”

He pulled off his coat and wrapped it around her shoulders, pulling her close to his chest. His touch and the scent of his woodsy cologne broke her and she began crying. He shushed her gently before pulling into his arms. For the first time, in a really long time, she actually felt safe. “I’ve got you.” He assured her as she sobbed into his chest. “I won’t let him put a hand on you again. Ever!”

“Oh my God!” at that moment Gwen came running out of the hall with security and her boyfriend. “What happened?”

“He was trying to rape her.” Thomas spat while security fished Harold out of the fountain. “Can you call the police?”

“No!” Mara said quickly. “Just let him go.”

He shook his head. “No, not after what I just saw---

“I don’t want to deal with the police right now.” She stated. “Besides, there’s no evidence and no witnesses other than you and I, which is insufficient. You’ll just put me through all their questioning for nothing. So, I’m begging you, please. Just let this go.”

He bit his lip and said softly. “Wait here.” He walked over to Harold who shrank backwards in fear. “If either of you or your wife ever approach her again, show up at an event, talk to her or ask her for a penny, I swear on every star in the sky that I will kill both of you!” She stood there, again shocked and stunned by the unbridled rage and fury in Thomas’s eyes. “Not only will I kill you, but I will enjoy doing it. I don’t care if I go to prison, because I’ll enjoy knowing that you’re in the depths of hell unable to touch her again!!” Thomas yelled. “I swear to God, I will eat your heart!!”

“Alright, that’s enough.” Alex ordered security. “Get him out of here.”

“And no report on this!” Gwen snapped. “I assure you, we will sue you and this establishment and win. No security cameras outside the hall? Two guests got into an invitation only event which lead to an attempted rape on a female. Even then, you were negligent in your duties that a guest had to step in and subdue him. Had she been dependent on you, we’d have found her in the garden and him gone!”

“Alright, everyone just calm down.” God, she wanted to punch Alex in the face so badly, but every inch of her was shaking so badly. Alex tilted his head to the side and asked. “So, you’re a fan of Shakespeare?”

Thomas glowered at him. “What?”

“Was that from Shakespeare?” Alex answered for himself. “Yes, much ado about nothing. If I were a man, I would eat his heart in the marketplace! Appropriate choice for the moment.” Thomas exhaled and slowly began to relax. “Look, you saved your girl, so come on inside. Get a drink, let her fix herself up and then calm down.”

“How can I---

“Because when she comes out, it’ll be your shoulder she wants.” He explained. “You can’t help her if you’re angry. She’ll need your support, not anger.” Thomas exhaled angrily as Alex asked. “Can you do that?”

he nodded and bit out. “Yes.”

Alex patted him on the shoulder. “Good man here.”

She wasn’t given a chance to explain for Gwen bustled her inside. “Mara, they’ve also started the poetry reading. You have to read your poem as well.”

She let out a sob as they hurried in the hall. “I want to go home.”

“I’ll get the car.” Thomas said. “I’ll make an excuse for you---

“No.” She shakes her head. “After this.”

He exhales. “Mara---

“It’s just a poem and then I can go home.” She sniffled as she let out a sob. “I can do this!”

“Mara,” Gwen handed him his coat. “come on in here.” She tugged her into the ladies room and she just broke down. Gwen exhaled as she held onto her, letting her sob and get it out. After a few minutes of crying, she began to get her sobs under control. Gwen exhaled and pulled out a few tissues and began to help her clean up her face. “Did he---

she shook her head. “He tried. Thomas stopped him.”

Gwen nodded. “I’m glad he was here with us tonight.” She simply nodded. For a long time, they say nothing. Mara reapplied her lipstick, Gwen did her mascara and eye shadow. As she began to powder her face, Gwen said softly. “I saw the way Thomas was looking at you when the of you danced together.” She let out an exhale. She didn’t want to talk about this now. “I can see that he nearly killed Harold.” She ignored Gwen. “He really cares for you, which makes me happy to see that finally someone wants you that much that they’d go to jail to protect you.”

“He doesn’t want me.” she whispers hotly as she pulls her dress back in order, it fortunately wasn't torn. 

“How can you say that? It’s obvious that he loves you!”

“Because no one’s ever wanted me!” she stated firmly. “My parents didn’t want me, so they let me adopted by people who decided they didn’t want me once I grew  up. So forgive me, into ever believing that anyone would ever want me, much less find me desirable! Especially someone like him, it’s very obvious that he is someone far above me and I will not jeprodize myself by allowing myself to dare to believe that I’m ever deserving of love! Besides,” she spat out angrily. “he saw me nearly get raped, again, by my adopted father. What man in their right mind is going to want a woman who was spoiled like that?”

Gwen exhaled as she said. “This is the real word, not one of your fantasy novels. Real men and believe me, your Thomas is quite the real man. There is nothing that he wouldn’t do to protect you.”

“He’s not mine.”

“He is.” Gwen said softly. “I know it’s scary as hell. Mara, but you have to---

“No.” She shook her head as she said. “He’s getting his memory back, bit by bit. He’s remembering his mother’s face and his brother too. He will remember what he lost and he will leave. I am not going to do something stupid by allowing myself to have feelings for someone who’s going to just leave me anyway!”

Gwen stared her down and said. “So, you do have feelings for him after all.” That was a statement. Not a question. She didn’t want to hear this. She shook her head as she grabbed her purse and left the bathroom. “Mara---

She just wanted to get out of her. Damn the poetry reading to hell! She wanted to go home. However, she entered the hall to see Thomas standing at the podium with a book in hand! He cleared his throat as he read aloud. ““Strawberries, by Edwin Morgan.” Their eyes met and he paused, taking a moment to read her face. 

“What’s he doing up there?” Gwen asked Alex.

“They called Mara while you were gone. He took the book, said she was unwell and he would read something for her.”
God! What was this man doing to her?

“There were never strawberries, like the ones we had that sultry afternoon. Sitting on the step of the open French window; facing each other. Your knees held in mine.” Silence filled the hall as everyone got drawn in, captivated by his calming voice. Yes, he was an eloquent speaker. “The blue plates in our laps, the strawberries glistening in the hot sunlight. We dipped them in sugar, looking at each other,” he glanced towards her again. “not hurrying the feast for one to come.” A strange and unfamiliar heat, filled her stomach. 

He glanced down at the book again. “The empty plates laid on the stone together with the two forks crossed and I bent towards you. Sweet in that air, in my arms, abandoned like a child. From your eager mouth, the taste of strawberries in my memory.” He looked up again. “Lean back again,” he locked eyes with her as he declared boldly. “let me love you!” she gasped and took a step back. Yes, that was part of the poem, but the way he said it, the way he looked at her, she knew that he was talking directly to her. “Let the sun beat on our forgetfulness, one hour of all. The heat intense and summer lightning on the Kilpatrick hills. Let the storm wash the plates.”

The moment he closed the book…the room exploded with applause and he instantly got a standing ovation. He nodded and bowed to the room, but he didn’t hesitate to leave the stage. He wanted to get to her. Strange, how somehow everything seemed a bit clearer around him. He stayed to the side of the room, keeping his gaze fixed on her as he ignored everyone trying to compliment him. When he reached her, he looked at her before asking. “Are you alright?”

She nodded. “Yes.” She licked her lips and said. “Thank you.”

He took her arm, causing her to shiver. “Let’s get you home.” She nodded and held onto his arm. She couldn’t think of a thing to say to him.

“Oh my God, marry him!” Gwen declared causing her to blush hard. “If you don’t, I will! I swear to God, if you don’t want him I will jump him here and now---

“Hey!” Alex snapped. “You’re engaged to me!”

“Noo!!” Gwen wailed dramatically. 

“It’s alright, Alex.” Mara said. “She’s being silly. I’m sure if you read her poetry---

“Alex? Read poetry?” Gwen laughed. “I’d love it if he would, but forgive me Mara. He just doesn’t have Thomas’s voice!”

Alex let out a huff. “I have to agree there.”

“Seriously, Mara! That man could get you pregnant by just his voice! Marry him!”

words could not describe just how embarrassed she was right now. Alex, fortunately cut in. “Gwen, you’re embarrassing them and Mara’s had enough for one night.”

“I know, it’s just,” she exhaled as she said. “I’ve waited so long for this day to happen and I’m just,” Gwen’s voice broke as she nearly started crying. “I can’t help it! I’m glad that Mara’s got someone in her life.” She wanted to shout at her that it was a lie and to shut up. But for the life of her, she couldn’t open her mouth to say the words. She was beyond relieved when she finally made it outside and in the open air. She wasn’t surprised that her car was waiting out front for them. “Shall I come over tomorrow?” Gwen asked. “I’ll bring pastries.”

She wasn’t feeling like it. “Perhaps Monday? I'd like some time alone.”

Gwen’s eyes darted back and forth between her and Thomas before she nodded reluctantly. “Alright, but I’m here if you need me.”

Mara smiled at her as she hugged her. “You always are, no matter how difficult I am.”

“That’s what sisters are for.” After a few moments, Gwen released her and she turned to Thomas. “And you!”  she shook her head as Gwen hugged Thomas, practically strangled him. “Don’t let her get too depressed tomorrow. Keep her as happy as you’ve been making her.”

“Really?” Thomas asked with a half-smirk on his face. “You honestly think that I make her happy?”

 “Yes and I hope you intend to take her home and give her some well deserved pleasure!”

“Gwen!” Mara blushed crimson as Thomas smirked. “Enough!”

“Yes, I may have gone too far, but you can’t deny that you haven’t been fantasizing about his hands all over you to remove Harold’s touch?” she wasn’t…until this moment and it was enough to make her heart stop. 

Thomas clears his throat and he opened the car door for her. “I’ll consider it.” Her eyes bulged as he placed his hand on the small of her back. “Let’s  go.” He kept his voice, like his touch, light and gentle. After getting her situated, she leaned back in her seat and closed her eyes. He got in and directed the driver to take them back home. After several long moments of awkward silence, he asked. “Did Gwen really just tell me to have sex with you?” Mara groaned and blushed crimson. Thomas laughed at her embarrassment. “I like her!”

“Well, you would!”

He shrugged. “She does have occasional bouts of brilliance,” the blood drained from her face. “so yes, I’d like her. I think my brother would have liked her.”

She looked towards him. “You have a brother?”

He nods. “Yes. At least…I must have.” He exhaled as he said. “I’ve been seeing fragments that are becoming clearer. At times…I have these strange dreams where I talk to my mother.”

She smiled despite her heart starting to break. If he was remembering, he’d remember his family and he’d be moving on soon. “Your memory is coming back. That’s good.”

“Just bits and pieces.” 

She hesitated before asking. “Your memory conjure up a wife or girlfriend yet?”

“I don’t have one.” He said softly.

“That you can remember.”

“I know, I don’t have anyone in my life.” She made the mistake of looking at him, nearly falling into those green eyes of his. He exhaled as he said. “Because all the women that I do remember…I don’t feel anything towards them in the way that I feel about you.”

He’d said it. 

It was out in the open and she wanted to close it all up in a box again. She inhaled before saying. “I think I’ve had enough excitement for one night.”

“I know,” he said gently as he placed his hand on the seat next to hers. “but, I thought you should know.” She covered her mouth least she burst out crying. “I’m not going anywhere, Mara. I’ll be right here for you.” He could claim that all he wanted, but she knew better. Gwen had been the only steadfast person in her life. People came and left her lives frequently. He would be just one more shadow in her life. The only difference was…she didn’t want him to leave.

When they were nearly at the house, only then did she dare to place her hand atop his. Whatever this thing was, it was brief, she was sure of it. Maybe she could let her guard down and feel something. If only she had some guarantee that he wouldn’t hurt her already shattered heart.

Tom Hiddleston reading 'Strawberries'.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=5EYEhrpGjdY&pp=ygUcU3RyYXdiZXJyaWVzIHRvbSBoaWRkbGVzdG9uIA%3D%3D

Chapter Text

You need to come home. The woman entreated. Loki. Please.

No. He exhaled deeply as he said. You can say you are my mother, but you offer no proof. I look nothing like you so how can I be your son? Another figure, the one who claimed to be his brother, moved to stand beside her. Now him! He could certainly be your son! I’m not!

We were brothers, Loki! The tall one said. You have to try and remember us.

Were! He pointed out. That means we aren’t anymore. So, why? They didn’t answer him. He felt this rage boil up inside him and then burst out as he shouted. TELL ME!!

His nightmare shattered and he bolted upright from his sleep with a gasp. These dreams, they were becoming more and more vivid. At times it felt as if they simply reached out and touched him, everything would come rushing back to him. But he didn’t want it to come back to him. He didn’t know what it was, but everything in him was telling him to stay away from these people. They were dangerous somehow. They may claim to be family, but maybe they were like Mara’s parents. 

His blood boiled again as he recalled seeing her ‘father’ trying to force himself on her. He’d figured that someone had hurt him, but he never thought it would be her father. He got up out of the bed. He wasn’t going to sleep tonight. Every time they showed up, they wouldn’t let him sleep. He put on some sandals and decided to take a walk around the property. He hoped that Mara was sleeping; she needed it so desperately after everything. He exhaled as he moved towards the main house. He wouldn’t enter, he’d just walk around and see if the light in her room was on or off. However, he got that answer before he made it past the back door. She was in her writing room, sitting at the desk with the window open and Whitney Houston playing. ‘Run to you’ her favorite song. Mara, however loved the least version, the film version.

He watched her for a moment. She sniffled and exhaled as she looked up at the ceiling. No, she wasn’t sleeping tonight. He exhaled before reaching up and removing the screen from the window. She had a glass of her favorite wine, Stella Rosa and a box of chocolates. she didn’t normally drink alcohol, but tonight was a different night for her. She exhaled deeply and after a moment of watching her, he spoke.

“Couldn’t sleep either?” she whirled a round with a gasp. “Sorry,” he said. “I didn’t mean to startle you.” God, she was so beautiful. She was wearing this short, silky white nightdress that stopped above her knees. He struggled to keep his gaze on her face ,but it was hard because she was really beautiful. He leaned into the window frame before asking. “So, you can’t sleep either?”

she studied him for a long time before shaking her head. “No, I can’t sleep either.” She exhaled as she asked. “What are you doing up?”

“Couldn’t sleep.” He said. “My head…it keeps trying to remember things and…I don’t want to remember them. So, I wake up and I can’t sleep.”

She sighed as she said. “You can’t not remember things, you should---

“I don’t want to remember them.” He said firmly as he held her gaze. “I’ve a feeling…I left them and wound up in this place because of them.” She nodded a moment and he sat on the window ledge before asking her. “Are you alright?”

“Yes.” She shrugged as she moved to stand by the window and looked upwards at the sky. “I’m just…so tired that I can’t sleep.”

“Hmm,” he shifts closer to her, his voice soft and gentle. “I’ve never…heard of that before. But I’m glad it’s not one of your migraines again.” 

She nodded and after a few moments, she said. “I suppose, you have questions for me.”

“No.” He admitted honestly, causing her to look at him. “I know all I need to know. You’re skittish because your father hurt you growing up. That’s why you don’t trust anyone, especially men right away.”

She was silent for a long time and then she said. “I'd take on extra school assignments to keep him away from me.” She inhaled as she looked passed him. “He’d touch me a lot, make me take my clothes off---

“You don’t have to tell me this.” He said honestly.

“You’re the one who seems to be under the delusion that you can have feelings for someone like me.” Her voice became a snap as she said. “Well, getting involved with a woman like me is not only a bad idea, but it’s dangerous because I will never, ever, let you touch me!”

he shook his head. “Mara---

“Do you really think that you’ll be able to look at me knowing that the first man to make me orgasm was my father?” her voice rose to a half-shriek. “That I lost my virginity to a glass bottle? The he---

“Mara!” He said firmly. “There is nothing that he did to that is going to make me look at you any differently. Nor is going to make me love you any less!”

she stared at him, her face growing pale in shock. “You…love me?”

“Yes, I love you!” He stated in a possibly harsher tone than she needed to hear. “Haven’t I been showing it to you?”

she stared at him before croaking. “I think, you should go.”

He shook his head. “No.”

“Yes.” She stepped away. “W-we’ve spent too much time together---

“I love you.” He said as he advanced slowly towards her.

She shook her head. “You don’t know what you’re talking---

“Yes, I do!” He stated as grabbed her around the waist, causing her hands to fly up as a warning. He took one hand off her waist. “I know you think because we’ve been basically living together for so long that I feel an obligation towards you. While I do feel that, what I feel in my heart is anything but that.”

“Thomas---

“Listen to me.” He said gently. “You, have been fighting me from day one. There’s been nothing but time to get to know each other, especially since you made it so hard for me to get close to you!” he exhaled deeply as he stated. “Despite all the problems, we were able to learn about each other. You like tea over coffee and you have a huge weakness for chocolate. The decorative box that you told me to stay out of that says ‘salt’ there’s no salt in there. That’s where you hide all your expensive chocolates that you don’t want anyone else to eat!” Her jaw dropped. “When you’re nervous or scared, you yell at people because it makes them back off. I know that you’re scared Mara and after everything you’ve been through, you’ve a right to be. But don’t you also have the right to be happy?” she shook her head. “I know you don’t think that you should be happy, but you do and you are when you’re with me.”

“Thomas---

“I love watching you laugh.” He said. “You do it so rarely, but when it’s a real laugh, you’re with me. You’ve noticed and I know it bothers you. I’ve seen you trying to ignore it, but you can’t ignore it anymore, Mara. I know you feel the same way.” She just stared at him as he said. “I want you. I want to take care of you, I want to protect you Mara. I want to love you, but I need you to let me love you. I have been,” his voice broke for a moment. “holding these emotions down, pretending that they don’t exist, but I can’t do that anymore. You need to know that I love you and I know,” he caressed her face gently and she didn’t pull away from him. “that it’ll be hard for you. But I want to try, I don’t know or care how long it’ll take. I know it’s a risk for both of us, but I want to be with you. I have nothing to offer you, but if you put your heart in my hands, I swear, that I will take care of it.” Tears filled her eyes. “I know, you’ve got things in your past that make you feel ugly and undeserving. But you…will always be the most beautiful woman to have ever walked the face of the earth to me.” He exhaled deeply as he shifted closer to her. They were so close that he was able to rest his forehead against hers. He repeated again. “I love you. I love you so much that I fear that I will die if you reject me. If you do, I will leave…but I will never stop fighting for you. I will never let you go, not after you’ve brought love to my heart. You’re the one for me. I know this, with the fire of a thousand suns that you’re the love of my life.”

She said nothing for the longest time. Her green eyes darted over his face, reading the desperation in his face. Just when he’d begun to fear that he’d lost her forever, Mara reached up and gently touched his face. He exhaled as she hesitatingly touched his face. He closed his eyes, absorbing the way her hand felt on his skin. After a long minute, she said. “I think…you’re a fool.” He exhaled and opened his eyes. She was hopeful, but she was scared. “I’m not the kind of woman, that a man like you should pursue.”

“And what kind of woman should I pursue?” he inquired. “Certainly not Gwen!”

“She'd be better for you."

"She's annoying."

"I’m a huge mess!”

"You're interesting."

"God!" She stated. “I’m going to make your life beyond difficult! I’ve no doubt that I will upset and frustrate you---

“I don’t care.”

‘I do!” She said. “You don’t deserve someone like me!”

“We don’t know my past.” He reminded her. “For all you know, I’m the one who’s undeserving of you.”

She shakes her head as she drops her gaze. “You can’t know that.”

“No, neither of us can.” He shifted closer, placing his hands on her slim waist. “But that doesn’t mean that you should stop living Mara.”

She was silent and then she said softly. “I feel, so dirty and disgusting. You shouldn’t even look at me.”

“I look at you,” he tilted her chin upwards, forcing her to look at him. She inhaled, blinking back tears as he said. “and I see the most beautiful woman in the world. I want to hold you, kiss you, seduce and then make love to you so you know that you truly are beautiful.”

She inhaled as she whispered. “You shouldn’t say such things.”

“Why?”

“Because,” she inhaled. “I'd only disappoint you. I’m sure…a man like you has had dozens of women.”

“And you’re the one I want.”

“For now.”

“Forever.” He stated. “I'd marry you today,” oh, she jumped, smacking her back against the wall. “right here, right now, this very minute if you’d let me.”

She just stared at him, struggling to say something, but nothing came out of her mouth. When he leaned forward to kiss her she said. “You shouldn’t---

“Why?” he asked as he removed his hands from her waist. “Do you truly not want to know love or be loved in your entire life?” she nodded. “Or is it merely the idea of me offering you love that’s off-putting?”

tears dribbled down her cheeks. “Love…it ruins everything. We’ve been good friends, why spoil it?”

“Because…you need more than friendship and I want to give you more.” He exhaled. “I take too much pleasure in holding your hand to stay friends. I feel you tremble when I touch you. You’re as affected by me as I am by you and have been so for months.” She shook her head, but he could see that she didn’t even believe her own actions. “I’m not going to ignore these feelings between us anymore.”

And with that, he leaned forward to kiss her. He wouldn’t go for her mouth right away, she needed patience, a little more finesse. She inhaled sharply as he buried a kiss in her neck. He shushed her gently as his lips moved upwards. She shifted, her hips brushed against him, causing him to let out a groan. Norns! He hadn’t even kissed her and he was already hard, ready to claim her. She froze, unsure of what to do as his hands left her waist to cautiously explore her body. His left hand undid the knot on her robe and his right hand was on her cheek. Her breathing sped up as he removed her robe, letting it fell to the floor silently.

She let out a faint gasp as she stammered. “T-Thomas---

“Easy, Mara.” He said soothingly. He knew that his voice and touch had an effect on her. If she asked him to stop, he would. “You can trust me. I won’t hurt you. I could never, ever hurt you. You saw what I did tonight to a man that hurt you. You stopped me from killing him. Stop fighting me...and let me love you!"

She swallowed hard as she croaked. “What are you---

He kissed her and she went stiff under him. His arms went around her waist and she stood there, pressed between him and the wall. As he gently and tenderly bestowed kisses on her trembling mouth, he prayed and begged whatever gods of love there were in this world to look favorably down at him and let her accept what he was offering her. He kept kissing her. Just as he was thinking about breaking the kiss…her slim arms wound around his shoulders. He held tightly onto her as he tried to pour as much love into her that she could bear. It would be hard for her, but he loved her and he wanted to love her so much. She’d accept him and his love in time, he could feel it. She had so much love in her and her love would be deep, steadfast ad far more than anything that he'd ever deserve in his lifetime. He just hoped that he'd be worthy of her.

Chapter Text

I love you.

Never before had anyone said those words to her and hearing them…it was as if some chain around her heart had loosened. She didn’t know why or how this was happening to her. She’d never felt anything like this in her life. Thomas, the way he spoke to her, the way he touched her…it was almost impossible not to submit to him. Gwen had been right all along, she did want his touch erase Harold’s touch from her body and he had. Thomas’s touch it was soft, gentle…and loving. She hated to admit it, but there was love in his touch. Just when she thought that she was going to pass out from his kisses, he broke the kiss and looked at her. She wasn’t scared of him. It was as if seeing just how far he’d go to protect her had erased all the fear inside her, at least towards him.

He loved her and he wanted to love her. Could she love him back? She wasn’t sure. She knew that she felt something towards him, there was no reason for her to give into him so easily. A faint breeze stirred her nightgown and she realized that he was wearing only his black sleeping pants. He was bare-chested and his chest revealed that he had all sorts of scars over him. She reached out and touched one, they looked like they’d been made by knives. They weren’t in places that he could do it himself, so, someone must have stabbed him or cut him. But why? Who’d do that to him? He was so gentle and kind.

After a moment, he said softly. “I want to touch you.” She let out a gasp as she felt his length against her. He was aroused and she felt a little sick with that realization. However, he felt very different from Harold. He let out an exhale, the excitement in his voice causing her to shiver. “If you want me to stop…I will. I’ve been wanting to touch you for months. I hope you will allow me this.”

“Thomas.” She gasped when he slipped his hand under her nightdress.

He stilled as he looked at her. “Is this alright?” those three words brought her to tears. She’d never been asked if something was alright with her. She’d been forced to endure so many things growing up. She was a woman now, not a child, but her unhealed inner child was still scared. “If you tell me to stop,” he breathed as his hand slowly traveled to between her thighs. Because of her evening dress, she’d worn a lacy thong, which now granted him easy access to her. “I will.” His penetrating green eyes studied her as he asked her. “Do you want me to stop?”

Did she want him to stop? Did she want to know what sex felt like? She had a feeling that no man would ever be as patient as he was. She felt as if she was standing on a great cliff and he was waiting at the bottom to catch her. All she had to do was just fell. Now, she wasn’t sure if she was ready for this, but something…a small part of her hoped that he could heal her with his love. She was so tired of walking around with this dull ache in her heart and chest. She’d been alone for so long. Far too long. She studied him carefully. He said if she asked him to stop that he would. She could trust him, he’d already proved this.
She inhaled as she nodded her consent. “Yes.” He exhaled as he leaned forward to kiss her. “Please,” he paused. “go slowly.”

“I will.” He promised. “I want to see you smiling when I’ve finished with you.”

“Smile? Oh!” She cried out, reaching for his shoulders when he slid a long finger inside of her. “Go-od!”

she exhaled sharply. “That’s it.” he breathed into her ear as he kissed her cheek. “God, you feel amazing.”

“G-gently.” She begged him.

“Yes. Let me know if something hurts.” He breathes against her face. Mara could only nod. She could barely think straight as his fingers manipulated her. her eyes drooped closed as she unconsciously clenched around his fingers. Her thoughts and mind were full of him, not the past. It felt as if she were in some bubble and it was only them in it. As long as she was in that bubble, she was safe. “Tell me honestly Mara.” He demanded gently as he pushed his body against hers. “Do you want me?” Her heart stilled and her heart pounded in her throat at the tone of his voice. She couldn’t speak. She looked up and nearly collapsed at the intense look in his piercing green eyes. He studied her for a moment before declaring. “By the gods, you do.”

She whimpered as he leaned forward to kiss her. the moment their lips met, she found herself clinging to his shoulders as she drank him in. This kiss, it was sparked in the heat of the moment and it grew rapidly. This kiss assured her of the emotions in his heart that he’d been suppressing towards her for so long. He loved her and he wanted her. The passion seared her soul, bringing to life a flame inside her that she’d never felt before. He gently used his knee to part her legs as she shifted against his fingers. She clung to his shoulders as his lips passionately devoured hers. 

She broke the kiss, feeling this pressure begin to build in her stomach. God, she hadn’t had an orgasm in…no! She wouldn’t think about that. Thomas breathed hotly into her ear. “That’s it. You’re going to come for me Mara.” She was gasping raggedly as he knelt before her, making her look down at him in confusion. He smiled at her, an almost devilish smile on his face. Before she could ask him what he was doing, he dove between her legs.

“Thomas? What are you---

she wanted to close her legs, but his tongue inside her stopped her. She held onto his hair tightly as she screamed. God! She’d never…yes, she’d written about this but…dear God! It was far beyond anything that she’d ever gotten close to capturing. No wonder he’d mocked her for writing bad sex scenes. This…how did he even know all this? He didn’t even know his own name, but he knew this? That tongue of his…he swirled it, flicked, sucked and even put his finger inside her to add more pressure. Just when she could bare it no longer, the tidal wave of pleasure she’d been desperately holding back, broke and she came with a cry on his tongue. He let out a groan as he kept drinking from her until her orgasm passed. She stood there, gasping as he blew on wet and dripping heat. She closed her eyes, only aware of his fingers still within her and her body shaking from his attentions. She barely had a moment to comprehend what had happened when he spoke to her. 

“I want to be with you, Mara.”

She looked down at him. Her mind still in a daze over what had happened. “W-what?”

“I want to be with you.” His eyes were on fire as he studied her face carefully. “Will you let me make love to you?” her heart pounded in her chest at those words. Those damn emerald green eyes of his studied her face so carefully, clearly looking for any sign of discomfort. “Do you trust me enough to give yourself to me?” he carefully took her hands in his. “Will you allow me to share myself with you?”

She didn’t think it completely through. But she was done with waiting. She knew she should think about it, but she didn’t want to. She wanted to be with. A part of her soul knew that he’d be the only man she’d ever be with. “Yes.” At those words he withdrew his twitching fingers from inside her and stood up. “I don’t want it to be in a bed.” 

He frowned slightly, but nodded. “As you wish.”

She exhaled as she said. “You’ve watched Princess Bride, haven’t you?”

“Not yet.” He exhaled as he moved towards the light switches. “Lights on or off?”

she bit her lip. Harold always did things during the day because he wanted her to see him. He’d always be shouting at her to look at him. She exhaled as she said. “Maybe…one light.” 

He nodded. “Alright.” He went and turned on the far crystal lamp in the corner. He exhaled deeply as he approached her. He took the blankets off the back of the couch and spread them on the carpeted floor. She shifted back a little, inhaling deeply as he held his hand out to her. He was ready. She could see his erection, desperate to break through his thin, black, sleeping pants which hung low on his waist. After a moment he said. “Come to me, my love.” God, something about the way he spoke to her with that voice...it undid her every time. Whitney was still singing away in the background as she’d left ‘Run to you’ on repeat. That was her comfort song, it always helped her feel so much better. She inhaled deeply as she moved towards him as her heart pounded violently in her head and stomach. She stumbled a little, but he caught her around the waist. “I’ve got you.” He assured her. “It’s alright.”

She licked her lips as she croaked. “I-I don’t, I haven’t---

“I know.” He lifted her up from the ground. “You can trust me.”

“I-I’m trying---

“I know.” He sat down, taking her with him before lying flat on his back so she was sitting on top of him. She exhaled uneasily and he smiled up at her. “You look so beautiful.”

“I don’t feel beautiful.”

“I know.” He said softly as he caressed her back so gently he pulled her to him. She shifted as he gaze up at her. “I wish…you could see yourself the way that I do.”

She hesitated before asking. “What do you see?”

“I see…a strong and resilient woman who was able to survive. You’ve maintained your dignity, won the respect, love and admiration of thousands across the world.” He reached up and caressed her face. “While you don’t let many people close to you…I’ve never seen you lash out at anyone. You’re kind and gentle. I thought,” he sat up as he placed two fingers on her heart. “you were cold at first. Now…I know you were keeping your guard up, waiting for the right person,” he exhaled as he declared. “I hope to God that it’s me. I hope you run to me, because I want you to.”

She knew he was referring to the song. She inhaled deeply as he leaned forward and kissed her. She wrapped her arms around his neck, holding on as he turned, taking her down to the floor so gently. She groaned as he parted her legs so he could get between them. He hesitated for a moment as he broke the kiss. His eyes were running over her face with such an intensity that she couldn’t stop herself from speaking. “What is it?”

He exhaled deeply. “This feels….more intense and intimate, than anything I’ve ever felt before.” She stared up at him in surprise as he confessed. “I hope I don’t disappoint you.” 

“You’ve…clearly got experience.” She inhaled as she whispered. “I don’t think you will disappoint, but…I might.”

“That’s…not possible. You’ve got a bit of imagination, but,” he smiled that charming little smirk at her. “a writer shouldn’t write about sex without experiencing first.” He ran his hands from her knees up to her thighs, slowly drawing her nightgown up to her waist. With a snap, he ripped the sides off her lacy green thong, causing her to jump. “I won’t hurt you.” He smiled reassuringly down as her as he brushed her hair back from her face after discarding her destroyed thong. “You’ve no idea… how long I’ve desired you. How much I’ve wanted to touch you, to kiss you…I want nothing more than for you to feel pleasure at my hands. I promise you, this will be a night that you won’t regret.”

He kissed her again. Oh, the moment their lips touched, she swore her heart would burst open. This couldn’t be love, she told herself. It had to be lust. It was too sudden and intense. Thomas pulled her nightdress over her head, leaving her now fully naked. She should have felt embarrassed and uneasy about this whole thing, but not with him. She knew him too well and he knew her as well. He paused to free himself of his sleeping pants. Heat filled her as his green eyes drank in her body appreciatively. He, on the other hand….he was huge! She’d never…good God, she’d written about men being well endowed, but HE had truly been blessed by whatever gods there were. She let out a gasp as he pulled her against his arousal. Her blood went cold and she gasped, looking up at him. He wasn’t slowing down and this pace was somewhat fast for her. As if sensing her discomfort, he lifted his body from hers, giving her a little space.

She exhaled and relaxed, nodding at him that this was better. He murmured something in a language that she didn’t understand. He began kissing her, knowing that his lips would calm her down. Only once he sensed that she was a bit more relaxed did he begin moving his body against hers, setting a rhythm that she’d inevitably have to match. She shivered as their bodies brushed against each other. Her hands sought his which were tightly gripping the blankets beside her. When she touched him, he loosened his grip on the blanket and allowed her to link her fingers with his. He stopped his movements and looked down at her. From the look in his eyes, Mara knew that her life was about to be changed forever in a matter of minutes. She shifted, unsure of what to do in this next moment.

“Hold onto me.” God, how was he always able to read her mind? Her free hand moved to tightly grip his shoulders. He kissed her lightly as his free hand gripped her hip and lifted them slightly. She opened her eyes, as she felt Thomas against her entrance. she shifted as multiple thoughts hit her in that moment and she instinctively tightened her grip on his hand. She inhales as he enters her slowly and she lets out a whine of discomfort as he begins to fill her. When he’s halfway, there’s a little resistance, causing her to hold tightly onto his back. “Relax,” he says gently. “don’t tighten up on me.”

“I can’t.” She whispered. “I know, it’s going to hurt.”

“I’m going to try not to hurt you.” He said. “I need you to relax. I’m nearly there.”

She inhales and exhales, struggling to relax. He kisses her a few times, trying to get her to calm down. He must have felt her relax for a moment for he finally thrust completely into her, claiming her as his. The pain was unexpected and she let out a cry, clinging to him as pain exploded around her. “God!”

“Breathe.” He held her close, breathing heavily as she gasped. “Give it a moment,” he assured her. “it’ll pass.” He kissed her shoulder. “It’s been a long time for you and your body remembers.” She whimpered at that reminder. “Give yourself time to get used to me.”

She moaned as she shifted, pleading for relief as tears dripped down her cheek. “God, you’re so big!”

he exhaled lightly with a laugh. “You flatter me, dearest.” He sobered as he kissed her cheek. “But are you alright?”

was she? She thought about it for a moment. This wasn’t like the bottle, the toys or the plugs that had been shoved inside her. It felt natural, almost right somehow. The tension and fears that she’d been feeling beforehand weren’t holding her prisoner. She exhaled deeply as he kissed her, trying to comfort her by showing her love and affection. After a few minutes, she nodded as she admitted. “I’m alright.” 

“Are you sure?” he asked, still nibbling on her neck.

she nodded before whispering. “I want this, with you.” And she did. he was a good man and she trusted him like she trusted no one else. If she had to do this with someone, Thomas was the perfect person.

He waited a moment before he began moving carefully and slowly inside her. Sure enough, the pain began to vanish as she adjusted to him. She stretched up, kissing him deeply as he guided her legs around his waist. she hesitantly moved with him, finding his rhythm and matching it. he murmured encouraging words in her ear; strange how natural they fit together in a way that even she couldn’t deny. At some point, she released his hand so she could grab ahold of him as he deepened his passionate overtures to her. She was gasping and crying out his name as he thrust repeatedly into her, his movements were slow and hard. He responded to her voice, which to her own ears sounded fragile. 

He lifted her hips slightly off the bed, so he could go deeper into her, making her feel as if she were on the very edge of insanity if she weren’t able to find her release. He…he clearly was a master at making love. His hands were everywhere, finding all her sensitive and tender spots, lighting her body on fire. Thomas kissed her neck as she panted against his skin, begging for him to help her find her release. They were both breathing hard, clawing and pulling at each other as if they were both starved for love and this were the only taste of love that they’d ever be allotted. When they grew close, he pulled back slightly, locking eyes with her before ordering her.

“Come with me.” Mara let out a gasp as he thrust into her once more and sent her completely over the edge. “Oh yes!” 

Suddenly, he bit her neck! She let out a sharp cry as this strange warmth traveled down from her neck down towards her womb. He groaned as she dug her nails into his back, possibly drawing blood as she felt that warmth explode within her at the exact moment he flooded her with his seed. He stayed deep within her, his teeth holding firmly onto her neck for a moment. He released her neck and placed a kiss there. She moaned as he gently collapsed atop of her. His strength was gone from his shaking limbs and beads of sweat dotted his forehead.. He exhaled deeply, pressing a kiss to her mouth before looking at her face. 

His eyes narrowed slightly. “Damn it,” her eyes fluttered open as he thumbed away a tear that was trickling down her cheek. “I made you cry.”

“Yes,” she whispered faintly, causing him to stop and look down at her. she reached up and took his hand with a smile. “you did.”

He hesitated before asking. “Did I hurt you?”

She shook her head as she whispered. “No.” She smiled at him, causing him to exhale before he carefully exiting her. As he pu pulled her into his side and wrapped the blanket around their bodies, she confessed. “It was beautiful.”

“You deserved beautiful.” He says softly as he laces her hand with he confesses once again. “I love you. I don’t think I can ever stop loving you.” 

The night was young and there were still many more hours in the night to explore and express the emotions that had suddenly bound them together. At that moment, she knew that despite her hundreds of concerns that he was hers. She felt the link now. He’d healed her with his love. Their hearts and souls were now joined together. 

Chapter Text

Loki. She was back again. His ‘mother’ and she was alone this time. She sighed as she shook her head. I have told you many times before that you couldn’t allow an attachment to form between the two of you.

Why? Am I married?

She sighed and shook her head. No, but, you will not be permitted to marry her. It’s impossible.

Impossible? He snorted. It has taken me weeks to prove to her that I had feelings for her. Yet you can stand there, judging me and telling me not to marry the woman I love.

She smiled faintly at him. I never thought I'd live to see the day that you fell in love. I’m glad to see that you have.

Yet, he points out. The first words out of your mouth are to inform me that I won’t be allowed to wed the woman that I love. Is that why I left wherever it is that I’m from? Was I sick of being told whatever to do by you and whoever my father is?

Do you truly wish to know what happened?

Yes, I wish to know! He didn’t really wish to know he was just simply mocking her.

That was his big mistake. Suddenly, the room around him exploded in gold, causing him to fall down on his back. Before he could regain his thoughts, a sparkling, deep purple dust was blow into his eyes. He let out a curse as he shook his head. When you awaken, your memory will be restored to you. Come home, Loki.

No! He said. I don’t want to!

It’s better if you come home willingly. You don’t want the allfather---

He’s not my father! He shouted.

And just like that, he bolted upright, waking from his troubled sleep. But this time, it was different. His head spun as he was railed with thousands and thousands of memories, all hitting him at once. It was like being pelted with thousands of rocks. Each memory grew more and more painful as he gasped for air. Sweat began trickling down his back and he shivered violently as his body was forced to consume these memories at a rapid pace. He let out a loud groan as he grabbed his head as he began remembering everything.

Because I am the monster who parents tell their children about at night? You know, it all makes sense now! Why you favored Thor all these years, because no matter how much, you claim to love me! You could never have a frost giant sitting on the throne of Asgard!

I never wanted the throne! I only ever wanted to be your equal!

I’m not your brother! I never was!

I could have done it father! I could have done it for you! For all of us!

No Loki.

He let out a yell as he felt that pain all over again. He'd killed his own father to prove to Odin that his loyalties were to Odin. But that wasn't enough for Odin. The pain that wracked his body, he felt it only for a minute. “Thomas?” He whipped around to see Mara sitting up beside him, her perfect body fully exposed to his gaze. She inhaled deeply as she placed a hand on his shoulder without even hesitating. “Are you alright?” She asked, her jade green eyes were so clearly full of concern for him. “Do you need water?” he could only nod as he gasped. She pushed the tangled blankets aside and raced for her mini refrigerator, completely naked as she grabbed a bottle of water for him. He was distracted for a moment. Not by her very beautiful form, but by her compassionate and caring nature. She hurried back with two bottles in hand, in truth, he was more distracted by her full and swinging breasts. She handed him an uncapped one. “Here.”

He nodded at her as he rasped. “Thank you.” He lifted the water to his lips and she pressed the bottle to his back, causing him to roar. “By the gods!”

“I’m sorry!” She said, pulling back a little. “It’s just…you’re sweating Thomas.”

He exhaled as he lowered the water. “I’m sorry.” And he meant it. “You were trying to help.”

“It is cold.”

He caressed her face gently, assuring her that he wasn’t angry with her. “It’s alright. You caught me off guard."

What happened on earth to make you so soft? Don’t tell me it was that woman! Oh! It was! Maybe when we’re finished here, I’ll pay her a visit myself. Well he had in a way. He’d met a Midgardian woman who’d made him turn soft as well. Sirens and nymphs were women to be wary of, but truly, it was the Midgardian women who were the most deadly. 

She reached up and placed her hand on his face, clearly checking his temperature, but her touch soothed his agitated state of mind. He set down his water and turned on his side, pulling her down with him. She let out a surprised sound, but when he wrapped his arm around her waist she realized that he just wanted to hold her. He let out a long exhale before breathing her in. She wore that perfume by Elizabeth Taylor, ‘Violet eyes’. She smelled of peaches, jasmine, roses and a touch of cedar and amber. Every inch of her was calming and soothing. The way she smelled, the way she felt, the way she tasted…he’d never felt this connection with any woman before and he’d had many under him. It was no wonder that he’d been able to remember how to pleasure her properly. She deserved to feel loved.

“Are all your dreams like that?” She asked softly, causing him to look at her. She was concerned and trying not to push. “Have you been sleeping like that, since we met?”

He exhaled as he nodded. “It’s been getting worse, lately.”

She studied him before asking. “Do you want to talk about it?”

He shook his head. “Not yet.” She studied him closely and he exhaled. “It was… just me arguing with my parents.”

“What about?” she asked, her voice soft.

He exhaled. “Many things.” This…would not go well. She was Midgardian, a mortal and not only was he a dethroned prince, he was immortal. She wouldn’t live as long as him unless he got her a golden apple from Idunn, but that wouldn’t be an easy task. “It’s too early for such conversation.” She yawned and he asked her. “Are you alright?”

She nodded. “Yes.”

He exhaled as he said. “I should take you to your bed.”

She shakes her head. “I’m fine here.” He pretended to stroke her hair, but took that opportunity to read her mind. His powers, they’d come in handy now. He didn’t look long. He heard her screaming, saw her tied to the bed, heard that drunken fool saying she was ‘his little princess’ while she begged to be let go. When she got her monthly cycle, the bastard said, “You’re finally a woman now. I'll show you what a woman's for” Mara hadn’t remained there a moment longer. She’d grabbed her stuff, moved away with Gwen and had stayed with her family. “W-what are you doing?”

He focused and saw that she was staring up at him, her eyes had a mixture of concern and curiosity. He exhaled before caressing her face. “I’m sorry. I zoned out for a minute.”

She exhaled. “You had…a strange look on your face. Almost like…you were trying to read my mind.”

He chuckled to hide his unease. “I’m sorry about that.” After a moment, he looked out the window. The sun hadn’t risen yet, but it was starting to come up. He cleared his throat. “Do you want to watch the sun rise?”

“Uhm,” she bit her lip and nodded. “yes, I'd like that.”

“And then when we get back,” he said as he got to his knees. “I’ll make you breakfast.”

She smiled. “You don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

“I want to.” And he did. He really appreciated her. He knew that he had to tell her the truth at some point, but he couldn’t. Not just yet. He kissed her, feeling warmth and ecstasy fill his being at her touch. She made him happy, he hadn’t felt that in so long. “I want to show you…just how much I love and appreciate you.” She looked at him, her eyes shining as if he’d handed her all the wealth in all the nine realms. He helped her to her feet and kissed her. She was blushing, feeling his arousal against her thigh. Normally, it took a bit of foreplay to arouse him, not a simple kiss. But Mara, she was different. After a moment, he said. “I’ll go get dressed and meet you out front in 10 minutes, alright?”

she nodded and whispered. “Alright, Thomas.”

He found his shorts and handed her the nightgown she’d been wearing. She dressed in a collected manner, but she kept looking at him out of the corner of her eye. He smiled at her, taking his time pulling on his underwear first and then his sleeping pants. He wanted her to get used to seeing his body, especially since he intended to have her share his bed frequently in the following days to come. She shifted slightly in discomfort as she tried not to be obvious in showing that she was staring at him. He wanted her eyes on him, he wanted to enjoy watching the look of innocence in her eyes blossom to womanly desires.

He then walked her towards her room, separating so he could go to the guesthouse. Once there, did he drop to his knees and exhale deeply. This was all a mess. He knew what had happened. He’d fallen from Asgard after Odin had chosen to reject him. That was all well. His ‘family’ didn’t love him, even though they claimed to love him. He knew that to be false. It had all hurt so badly, but to have this with Mara, he’d have fallen away a thousand times over in order to meet her. He’d destroyed the bridge, but he knew that Odin would more than likely have it repaired soon. He didn’t know how much time he had with Mara, but he was determined to spend every minute possible with her. She was the one. He knew this as surely as he knew that if he were to stop breathing that he would die.

After changing his clothes, he waited patiently outside the back door with a blanket thrown over his arm. Mara came out in a long, flowing but simple, white and purple lilac printed dress. He wanted to press her against the wall and make her succumb to his desires again, but he knew that he couldn’t do that. For her to accept and trust him in such a manner, it meant the world to him.

“You’re staring at me.” She whispered, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

“How can I not?” He said quietly. “You’re an exquisite goddess.”

“Thomas,” she whispered. “please.”

“It’s true,” he stepped towards her, holding her gaze. “you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever known in my life.” He leaned forward and kissed her lightly on the lips. She trembled under his touch as he broke the kiss. “Come on, I don’t want you to miss the sunrise.”

“Alright.” After closing the door, he offered her his hand, which she took without hesitating.

As they walked up the small hill that would overlook  the sun rising over the city, he couldn’t refrain from stating. “I hope you didn’t bother with any undergarments.” Her mouth drops as he turned towards her, an innocent smirk on his face. “You won’t be needing them long.”

“Thomas---

“I’m serious Mara, I don’t intend to waste time by ripping them off you.”

She rubbed her neck as she said. “I thought…we were coming out here to watch the sunrise.”

“That too, but,” he held up the blanket. “what did you think I brought this for?”

she cleared her throat. “So, I wouldn’t ruin my dress?”

he laughed at her face. “That too.”

She shook her head and exhaled deeply. “God, you can make me blush like no man ever could.”

“Is that a problem?” he inquired as they reached the top of the hill. “I could try to speak a little more indirectly, but,” he spread the blanket on the ground. “I feel as if you’d prefer I speak clearer to you, so you know what I’m thinking.”

“Perhaps.” He helped her down and sat down beside her. He exhaled and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. This…it was perfect. Contentment, it had been foreign to him. He’d almost be content to live his days out like this, but he knew he couldn’t hide who he was from her for long. After a few moments, he decided to tell her the truth. “I haven’t been completely honest with you.” 

She instantly stiffened and asked almost fearfully. “How so?”

God, this would be so hard on her. He exhaled as he confessed. “I got my memory back.”

She blinked in surprise. “You did?” he nodded. “All of it?”

“Yes.”

“When?”

“This morning,  unfortunately.” 

“Why, is it unfortunate?” he was silent for a moment and then she croaked. “You’re married.”

“No!” he instantly assured her. “I’m not!”

“Engaged?” she inhaled and he could see that she was terrified by the possibility of having to give him up.

“Mara, the only woman in my life, is you.” She exhaled shakily as he held her gaze. “I swear it. There was no one in my life, nor had there been for a very long time.”

She inhaled deeply and then asked. “Why is it unfortunate, then?”

he’s silent before admitting honestly. “It’s a long story and I’m afraid that…when I’ve told you, this’ll all be over.”

“What will?”

“This, between us.” He’s silent before stating. “I can’t lose you. not when…not when I feel so strongly about you.”

She stared at him for a long time before asking slowly. “Are you a criminal?”

“No, nothing like that.” He exhales. “My past is just…it’s dark but, no, I’ve not committed any crimes that I'd be held accountable for on Earth.” That was true, Asgard, it was another story.

She’s silent for a long time before stating slowly. “You know my past, it’s dark and you never judged me. I won’t judge you for yours.” He looks at her, silently begging her to accept him, no matter what he said about his life in Asgard. “You can tell me.”

He searched her face. “Truly?”

She nods. “Yes.” She bit her lip before asking. “What’s your real name?”

he smiled at her. “Loki.” She blinked in surprise and he explained. “It’s Norse.”

“Loki.” She tested it lightly on her tongue. He liked hearing her say his name. She rolled the ‘L’ a little bit. “It suits you.”

“Thank you.” He reached for her hand and held it tightly. “You’ll be relieved to know, that we both have father issues.” She chuckled lightly. He exhaled and looked towards the rising sun, casting gold, orange and pink hues of light across the hills. Mara, even though she was anxious, she was patient and waited for him to speak. “I’m adopted. My parents didn’t tell me.”

She held his hand as she asked. “Did you take the news badly?” 

He nodded. “I found out by accident.”

She exhaled as she leaned a little closer. “It must have been a shock for you.”

“It was.”  Suddenly, they went flying upwards into the air. Mara screamed and flailed around as the world below them vanished! He knew what was going on. The bridge had been repaired, the bifrost was working again and he was being dragged home to face whatever punishment awaited him. Mara, she was beyond confused and her screams became more hysterical until he grabbed her and pulled her towards him. “I’ve got you!” he assured her as she clung to him as they rushed up towards Asgard. “It’s alright!”

She inhaled deeply as she shouted at him. “What is happening?!”

He bit his lip before stating. “I’m being captured.”

“Captured!?” she frowned. “I don’t understand!”

There was no time for games, he needed to be direct. “I’m a god, we’re being taken back to where I used to live, Asgard!” Mara just stared at him, her mouth wide open and he wondered if being direct in this instance had been too much for her.

Chapter Text

She stared at him. Her eyes darted back and forth before she said loudly. “Normally I’d question myself for even believing that, but…you were unfamiliar with even the most basic of things on earth!” she looked around as she shrieked. “And the fact that I’m flying through space makes it really hard to deny that’s what’s happening here!”

He exhaled as he stated. “Look, I don’t know what they’ll do you, but I’ll keep you safe.” He promised. “I won’t let anything happen to you.”

She stared at him before asking. “What are they going to do to you?”

He couldn’t answer the question. He exhaled as he caressed her face. “Don’t worry about me.”

She grabbed his wrist tightly as they landed on Asgardian soil. As predicted, Thor, Frigga, Heimdall, the warriors three and a dozen armed guards were waiting for them. She stumbled and he grabbed ahold of her waist, pulling her upright. As he helped her find her footing, the guards all pointed their weapons at him. He exhaled, raising his hands to show that he meant no harm. Mara shifted closer to him as she whispered. “Now, I’m worried.”

Thor went to approach him, his arms outstretched and a huge smile on his face. “Brother, we feared you were---

He shot Thor a warning look as he stated. “I’m not your brother.” 

Thor stopped where he was. He probably shouldn’t have said it that way, but he was angry. He’d found Valhalla in Mara’s arms and he didn’t want to be brought back here like a child in need of scolding. He exhaled hotly, ignoring the warriors gaze and his mother’s penetrating gaze. Then, he locked eyes with Odin and he knew that Odin wasn’t done punishing him. He knew that his mother would prevent Mara from being harmed, but he knew that the odds of him and Mara being allowed to be together were highly unlikely.

“Guards.” Odin nodded at him. “Seize him.”

Mara let out a sharp gasp as she looked at him. “W-what’s going on?”

He turned to her. “I didn’t get to tell you---

“Separate them.”

Mara’s eyes widened and she tightened her grip on him. “No, I---

“Hey!” He warned, turning towards the two guards who approached her. “I’m warning you---

that’s as far as he got. The moment the guards put their hands on her, he snapped. He wasn’t a warrior like Thor, but he could fight. He didn’t hesitate. He blasted the two guards in the face, sending them flying backwards! He knew he was outnumbered, but he wasn’t going to let anyone put their hands on her while he could move. She let out a cry of surprise, but she wasn’t afraid of him. He grabbed a spear and ran a guard straight through, causing him to groan. He could hear Frigga and Thor warning him to stop but he wouldn’t. He teleported directly in front of Mara, protecting her while the warriors moved towards him. She locked her arms around his waist, holding onto him. He squeezed her hand, assuring her that she was safe.

“Stand down!” Frigga said. Everyone, even Odin turned to her in shock. She never gave an order that countered Odin's. Frigga nodded towards them. “He’s protecting her. If you leave her be, Loki will stand down.”

Trust Frigga to be the only sensible person in the room. He inhaled as he stated. “She’s not part of this. Leave her be and I’ll put the weapon down or I swear, I’ll keep fighting until you’ve killed me!”

“Loki,” his mother said softly. “do not make this worse.”

“Then keep everyone away from her!” he shouts in fury. “Next man to touch her dies.” 

He could sense the confusion among the warriors, especially Thor and Odin. He didn’t really care about what happened to himself. He didn’t want her being hurt. Odin exhaled and said. “Then she needs to step away from you. You know you have to answer for your crimes. Don’t use her to hide behind.”

He took a step forward and she moved with him. “No. I won’t leave him.” He turned and glanced towards her. What happened just now? She was scared, he could feel her trembling and hear her heart beating from fear. But she was holding onto him. She wouldn’t let him go and she’d somehow found the strength in a par of herself to stand with him without even knowing the full story. He knew that this was something that he had to do.

“Mara,” he said as he lowered the spear. “it’s alright.”

“Loki---

“No one will touch you.” He glanced to his mother who nodded her assurances at him. “Just step back. I’m alright, I need you to be safe.”

Odin nodded at the guards who were holding the Asgardian chains. He set down the spear and stood there, tall and upright as the guards moved towards him. Mara let gasp as they fastened the collar around his neck. Then his hands were cuffed, his legs and then the length of the chains went around his waist so the guards could hold him like a dog on a leash.

“Father,” Thor asked. “is this really necessary?”

Odin ignored that question. He exhaled before asking Odin. “So, what is all the fuss about that you felt that you had to drag me and her from Midgard?”

“Do you not feel the gravity of your crimes?” Odin inquired.

He didn’t. Loki merely shrugged as he stated factually. “I’ve committed no crimes that you yourself did not commit. Even Thor.”

“Heimdall watched you while we repaired the bifrost.” Odin practically spat at him. “You know it is forbidden to meddle with Midgardians as they are primitive.”

“If I were in a full remembrance of anything prior to falling there, I might have remember that such things were forbidden.” Loki let out a sharp laugh. “But that has nothing to do with you disrupting my life---

“Your life? That life…it never existed.” Odin stated

Loki shook his head. “It existed to us.”

Odin exhaled. “Midgardians have never lasted beyond a hundred years, which is like a day to us.”

“That day, is my day to live.” Loki spat out viciously. “You’ve controlled EVERY aspect of my life from the moment I was born, but this one…you don’t get to control. Now, tell me why the hell you brought me back here. What grand plan have I once again disrupted for you?”

“Loki,” Thor warned. “heed your words.”

“Or what?” he demanded. “He’s your father, not mine!”

“Loki, that’s---

“And I’ve never been his son!” he spits out, full of venom. “Which is why he’s always favored you!” Thor said nothing. His face went still. Rage boiled up in him as he spat. “Lesser prince or not, I wouldn’t take the throne of Jotunheim anymore than you would!”

“Loki,” Mara approached him, placing a hand on his chest, attempting to calm him down. “please, this isn’t helping.” Loki glanced down at her hand inhaling deeply. She was probably frightened out of her mind but she was trying to calm him down. “Please.” She added in a lower voice. “I can tell, that he hurt you very much and I know I don’t know everything that’s going on. But right now, it’s important that you get out of this situation.”

He exhaled as he shook his head at her as he admitted. “There is no way out.”

Her face froze, finally realizing just how dangerous the situation they were in was. At least for him, she was safe. Odin stated. “Frigga is the only reason you’re still alive and you will never see her again after this.”

“Good, then return us both to Midgard.” He stated firmly. “I have a life down there and it doesn’t involve any of you.”

“Then you should have thought of that,” Odin stated. “before you put us at war and put millions of people’s lives at risk!”

“Then, I’m no different than you or Thor for that matter.” He says sharply. “I am done bowing to you and your wishes. So, just strip me of my powers and be done with it!”

“You think that is a punishment for what you did?” Odin shouted. “We have lost dozens of warriors thanks to your actions.” 
He really couldn’t care less. “I think…living as your ‘son’ was punishment enough!”

“You will spend the rest of your days in the dungeons.” 

There it was. No trial, nothing, just as he expected. No mercy. 

“Why?” Mara demanded softly, causing all eyes go to her. “Why can we not go back to earth?”

“I did not say that you would stay on Asgard with him.” Odin’s tone was cold and unemotional as he nods to one of the guards who approach her. “Heimdell and Thor will be returning you to earth.”

THAT lit a fire in him like none other. “No!” Loki shouted, causing the guards to tighten their grips on his chains. Mara instantly ducked under his arms, holding onto his neck. “You have no right---

“I have EVERY right!” Odin shouted. “Did you honestly believe I'd allow your mortal plaything to join you in prison?”

“Then why did you bring her here?” He demanded. 

“You know that she can’t stay.” Odin stated. “She will be returned to her home and she will have no recollection of you or any of the time you two spent together.”

Mara’s fingers tightened around his neck as he demanded. “You’re going to erase her memory?”

“No!” Mara shook her head as she begged, her heart racing faster with each passing second. “No, please, I want to stay here with him.”

Frigga stepped towards Odin. “Please, reconsider---

“She is a mortal.” He states firmly. “Regardless of this…temporary infatuation between them, she will age and die. It is better if he ceased to exist to her.”

“I won’t leave him.” Mara tightened her grip on his arm. “I refuse to leave him.”

Odin shrugged. “You will be cast out of Asgard and you will wake tomorrow with no recollection of him.”

“There is a way for her to become immortal,” Loki stated as he gripped her as best as he could. “you know there---

“She is of an inferior race. Regardless of the apple, I will never permit a mortal to stay on Asgard. Muchless to become a whore to a fallen prince.” 

“I want to stay with him.” Mara inhaled as she asked. “Why do you have to erase my memory?”

Odin looked her coldly in the eye as he stated. “Because he’s supposed to be punished for his crimes. If I let you stay…that takes away the purpose of the lesson.” He turned to the guards. “Remove her.”

“Stay the hell away from her!” he shouted as two other guards grabbed her. Mara screamed and fought them as best as she could but she never was meant to be a warrior. Rage exploded through him and Loki punched one of the guards in the face! He whirled around and pulled the chain from the other guard. He grabbed the ends of the chain and swung it, hitting a guard and Sif in the face! Mara was screaming at the guards not to touch her and he could feel the panic surging in her. Loki went straight for her only to get sent flying by his brother’s hammer which made Mara scream even louder! 

“Damn you, Thor!” he cursed as he tried to get the hammer off him.

“Loki!” Mara screamed as Odin slammed his staff down on the ground. “Don’t hurt him! Please!”

“Mara!” he shouted at her. 

Mara looked up at him, struggling to get away from the guards who pulled her to stand in front of Odin. When Odin aimed Gungir at Mara, something, this tremendous wave of protectiveness welled inside him. Several things happened at the same time. Mara managed to break one hand free and she reached out towards him, tears running down her pale face and her jade-green eyes begging him to help her. The next was when he sat up, he somehow tilted Thor’s hammer off his chest, causing everyone around him to completely panic! He didn’t even think about swinging it, his one goal was to get to Mara! Her eyes widened and he shouted right as Odin's power blast hit Mara in the head! she was unconscious before she even hit the ground. She lay there, her hand stretched out towards him and Loki felt his heart stop in his chest. He ran over to her, hitting the guards in the face with the chains, before kneeling down beside her.

It was a huge power blast and considering how Mara’s headaches made her suffer, this could kill her. He placed his hand on her head searching for injuries, but these Asgardian chains had stifled his powers. She could be bleeding internally and not know this. He looked up, shouting at Odin as the guards shoved their spears in his back. “Do you truly hate me so much you have to punish her!? she did nothing to you!!”

“And what do you intend to do with her?” Odin demanded. “Keep her as a pet? Turned her immortal, then returned her to Midgard once you’d grown weary of her?”

“What I intended to do with her,” he snapped. “would have been none of your concern!”

Odin shrugged. “Thor, return her to her home. When she wakes, she’ll remember nothing and she’ll move on without him in time. Guards, take him to the dungeon.”

Before he was yanked to his feet, he bent forward and took one last kiss from her still-warm lips. He knew how the memory spell worked. He’d be completely gone from her life. She wouldn’t remember him. She wouldn’t remember all the moments that they’d shared together. She’d never remember how she let her guard down for him, how they’d gotten close. She’d never remember the kisses, the tender words, she’d never remember how they’d made love together. As he was pulled away from her, a thought occurred to him. He could have gotten Mara pregnant. Midgardians were easy to impregnate and he wasn’t careful with her. If he was gone…she’d only remember her stepfather attempt to rape her and assume he’d gotten her pregnant. She’d never remember that the child inside her had been created with love. 

This was the moment that he fully regretted his actions. He didn’t care about all the realms that were suffering. He didn’t care about how the bridge had been broken. He didn’t care about his ‘family’. All he cared about was how his actions had impacted the life of the woman he loved. After all the horrors she’d endured, the few memories she had of love were ripped away from her. She’d done nothing wrong and she’d suffer greatly for the most ‘unforgivable’ crime imaginable. Loving him. He, on the other hand, was doomed to relive those memories alone. And now, he was truly and completely alone for all eternity. He’d been alone before, but now…darkness and emptiness was all he’d know until he got free to her and he could only pray that when he got free that she was still alive.

Chapter Text

When Mara woke up the following morning, she instantly bolted out of the bed with a scream. “Loki?” she screamed as she ran down the hall, out of the house keeping her gaze upwards. “Loki?!”

Naturally, there was no answer. Why hadn’t she lost her memories? Her head ached dreadfully, but right now she was concerned that Loki was being tortured or possibly put to death! That made her start crying to the point of being on the edge of hysteria as she ran up the hill where they’d walked just yesterday. Her head was spinning in addition to aching. She couldn’t understand what was going on. She’d been shocked to Hell that he’d proclaimed to be a god, but it all made sense! The scars on his body, the way he spoke testified that he had the best education, his excellent taste in clothing was because he was used to the best. But he didn’t belong in her world anymore than she belonged in his, but she couldn’t rest until she knew that he was alive and well. Then, she could try to let him go, but deep down she knew that she could never get over him.
She was falling in love with him.

She hadn’t realized it until his ‘father’ had said that she couldn’t stay with him. There was no reason for such cruelty. It had been to punish Loki for something that he’d done that she didn’t know or understand. She refused, she refused to believe that Loki was a monster. She could see that he was hurt and upset, but he wasn’t beyond hope. She knew this because she’d seen men at their worst. Loki, he was kind and gentle. Yes, he didn’t remember a thing, but that allowed his true nature to surface and his pain to heal from whatever happened. She had no doubt that his father, that Odin, was somehow to blame for how things had come to pass.

She reached the top of the hill, her feet cut and stinging from the rocks and thorns as she made it to the scorched earth that tattled where they’d been abducted from. She inhaled, looking up at the clear blue sky and shouted at no one. “Bring me back! I want to go back!”

No answer.

She felt and probably looked like a fool, but she didn’t care. She kept screaming and begging to go back, but the heaven’s didn’t open to bring her back to Asgard. She didn’t know how long she stood out there, but she kept screaming and crying. She pleaded for Thor to be told. She begged to be returned to Loki, but the world remained silent. Something inside her was broken. It was as if a part of her had been missing. When the skies broke and the rain poured down on her, she refused to go inside and get an umbrella. Once she was soaked to the bone, did her head clear. It was as if, she’d remembered a password that would open the heavens to her.

“Heimdall!” She managed to yell out as loud as her scratchy voice would allow. “I command you….to take me back, now!!”

WHOOSH!!!

A light shown down on her and she went flying through the air again! Without Loki to hold onto her, she flew around all over the place but she stayed in the path. This trip seemed to take forever, perhaps because she was in a rush to actually get there. And when she did arrive, she didn’t land on her feet. She landed in a crumbled heap on her feet, inhaling deeply as she looked up to find Heimdall approaching her.

“You,” he stated in a deep, velvety voice. “are very persistent for a Midgardian.”

She inhaled and rasped. “Where’s Loki?”

He stood there, looking down at her and she stared back at him. He had striking gold eyes. He shook his head before stating. “I summoned Thor. He will be arriving shortly.”

She inhaled as she sat up. After a moment of getting her wits about her, she stood up. She moved towards the path and looked towards the kingdom. Asgard, it appeared to be a beautiful place. Far more golden and majestic than anything that she’d ever witnessed in her life. A approaching red blur alerted her to fact that Thor may be approaching. She stepped to the side, watching as he landed inside this spherical center with Heimdall. 

“You called? What is it?” Thor asked. “Is it Jane?”

Heimdall shook his head before gesturing towards her. “She demanded, that I return her.”

Thor looked completely flummoxed. “She demanded?”

“Yes.” Heimdall said. “Never before have I seen a spell cast by Gungnir fail. We should know why?”

Thor stared at her, concern in his eyes. “The spell failed?”

She nodded. “I want to see Loki.” Thor’s brown eyes widened in shock. “Is he,” she inhaled. “alive?”

Thor nodded as he approached her. “Yes, my brother is alive.” Thor, while being a larger build, was about the same height as Loki. He wore an almost fascinated expression on his face. “Do you…truly remember everything?”

She nodded. “I do.” She inhaled before requesting as politely as she can. “May I please, speak to Loki?”

He exhaled as he said. “Loki’s been imprisoned in the deepest part of the dungeon. No one---

“ I want to see him.”

“When I say no one,” he exhaled deeply as he said. “I do mean no is permitted to see him. Not I, not my mother and my father…will most certainly not allow you to see him.”

“Why does---

her voice broke and she cleared her throat. Heimdall spoke. “She’s been yelling and crying for hours. Tell Odin, it is hard to fulfill my duties with her disturbing me.”

Thor nodded. “I will, good Heimdall.” Thor approached her and she took one step back. He exhaled as he said. “I know, my brother has threatened to kill all who put a hand on you, but,” he turned and pointed to the palace a long distance away. “if you hold onto me,” she didn’t like that idea. “I can fly there. Otherwise,…we shall have to walk all the way to the end of the bridge. And from there, I shall arrange transportation for you.”

She exhaled deeply. She didn’t want to do this, but walking was less desirable. It’d take a whole to reach the other end of this bridge. She exhaled and nodded. “I do not like it, but I shall agree to it.”

Thor looked at her and then asked. “You and Loki…what is it that---

“I wish to speak to him.” She said simply. “Please. I do not care, how long I have to beg your father, but…I will speak to Loki. What I must say…is for his ears only. No one else’s.”

Thor’s brow arched as he nodded. “Very well, perhaps, we might find you something to drink as well.”

She nodded. “Thank you.”

Thor placed a strong arm around her waist, causing her to shudder in disgust. Thor frowned at her. “What is---

“Just…get me there, please.” She exhaled, trying not to show just how difficult it was to be touched in such a way by someone she didn’t know.

Thor nodded and with a whoosh, he took off, flying towards the palace. She closed her eyes, ignoring whatever scenery was whooshing beneath her. She didn’t like flying, she didn’t like being touched by someone she didn’t know, but she needed to see and talk to Loki so she could try and understand what was going on. This whole thing, it was beyond confusing. She was starting to believe that he loved Shakespeare because he’d lived through something similar, especially in regard to his adopted father. 

Thor set her on the ground and she instantly stepped away, exhaling deeply. She could feel Thor’s eyes on her and while she didn’t want do, she offered an explanation without looking at him. “Someone…hurt me a long time ago. I don’t like, to be touched by men I don’t know. It took your brother, nearly six months before I was somewhat comfortable with his touch. Even now, there are times I’m not.”

“I believe I understand.” He said kindly. “It’s not personal.” He snapped his fingers at a servant who happened to be carrying a flagon of wine. “Attend me here!” they hurried over along and the servant behind them, who was carrying a tray of glasses approached. Thor took a glass and said. “She’ll take half.” He turned to her. “I don’t know if you’re used to strong drink, but, this should help your voice.”

“Thank you.” She took the glass from him and drank it. The wine tasted of vanilla, honey and peaches. It wasn’t too strong, but it was lovely on the throat. She cleared her throat and said. “Thank you.”

Thor exhaled as he said. “My father, may not be in the most generous of moods.”

She licked her lips as she said. “I’m aware.”

Thor nodded and he gestured for her to follow him. She inhaled and fell into step alongside him. The palace was indeed beautiful. While there may have been too much gold for her taste, it was exquisitely detailed and she seemed to have flown back in time to medieval times. She hoped that the people weren’t medievaly minded because she did not have the temperament for such things. She smelled rich, floral scents, smoked meats and she could hear the sound of water flowing from outside as they passed by windows. It was a beautiful place, but she might as well be entering the gates of Hell. People stared at her curiously while trying not to be obvious. She had a feeling that it might as well be because of her clothes. But as they grew nearer to what she assumed the great hall was, she predicted that it was actually because she was a human. She wondered if she was perhaps the first human to walk these halls of Asgard.

Thor nodded for the two great doors to be opened and they were. When they entered, the room of people who’d been talking turned…and went silent. Thor continued walking forward and she kept stride with him. He had a very long stride and he made her feel like she was trotting alongside him like a miniature pony among prize racehorses. She exhaled deeply as they walked along the seemingly endless hall. She vaguely noted the cool stone underneath her bare feet. There were rocks in her feet, but they became dislodged as she approached this huge and intimidating gold throne. Upon which sat the ‘great’ Odin, however, the throne made him look even smaller than normal.

She exhaled deeply as they approached the throne. Their mother, Frigga, she was standing below the throne. That sight just irritated her. Odin's wife, she wasn’t on equal footing with her own husband. She had a feeling that Asgard was going to be very backward planet.

“Father,” Thor began. “I need to speak with you---

“What,” Odin demanded. “is Loki’s plaything doing here?” 

She bristled in anger and snapped. “I have a name, I suggest you use it.” He glowered at her and she glowered at him. “I am not a toy, I’m a sentient being.”

“You will address me as the allfather.” He stated.

“Your title demands that you be respected.” She stated. “Twice, you have referred to me as a plaything and also a whore. Until you use my name, I shall not refer to you as such.” Everyone gasped. “In order for respect to be earned, it has to be given and you, have not respected me.”

There was a long silence and she held Odin's gaze. She could tell he wasn't accustomed to being spoken to like that, but she'd endured enough disrespect in her life. The silence was broken when Frigga stepped forward. “Forgive me, I do not recall your name.”

She cleared her throat as she said. “Mara Wallingford.” She licked her lips before asking softly. “Where is Loki?”

Frigga stared at her in shock. “You remember him? Still?”

She nods. “Yes. The curse failed.”

“That is impossible.” Odin stated. 

“Then something is wrong with your spear.” She fought the urge to add ‘old man’ to the end of that sentence. “For I do remember every day, every minute and every hour that I spent in Loki’s company.”

Odin turned to Thor and demanded. “How came she to be here?”

“Heimdall summoned me.” Thor explained. “He said that she had been screaming and asking to see Loki for hours till she all but lost her voice. Whence she commanded him to bring her here, he obliged because he said he could not focus on his task due to her,” Thor glanced at her before saying. “well, her inability to remain silent. She’s been demanding to see Loki.”

Odin glowered at her. “Loki has only been a week into his sentence---

“I care not.” She said, picking up some of the Shakespearean dialect. “I have requested to see him and I shall not cease in my demands until I’ve seen him face to face and had words with him. The words I mean to have with him are for his ears and his ears only.”

There was a long silence and she could feel all eyes studying her. Odin stood up, studying her before ordering. “Take her to the healers.” 

She didn’t like the sound of that so she started backing away. “Father,” Thor protested. “she is a visitor and---

“I don’t care! We must find out why she can still remember.”

When the guards approached, she instantly turned and ran. She could hear Thor shouting that no man shall touch her. She was glad to hear that there was some semblance of honor in him, far more than his father. There was a lot of yelling and shouting as she ran from the room. Something, she wasn’t sure of, seemed to call to her throughout the halls. People ran after her, but fear spurned her to be faster. She didn’t know the layout of the palace, but she had a feeling. She didn’t know how she knew, but she followed that feeling. 

People could speculate, poke and prod to find out why she still remembered but Mara knew what had happened. It was Loki’s kiss. She’d read enough fairytales to know that true love’s kiss broke a number of curses. She somehow knew that he’d kissed her goodbye and it had been his kiss that protected her from Odin's curse. Somehow, she was able to shake the guards and Thor. She continued down a flight of steps and through multiple corridors until she found herself at the very place where she wanted to be.

The dungeons.

Chapter Text

Loki!

Loki!

Loki bolted up from his sleep with an exhale. Was he doomed to never sleep again? All he heard was her in his head. Her screams and her cries. All he saw was the look of confusion on her face, the moments of terror right before Odin struck Mara down. That terror had turned to despair just before she hit the ground as she realized that they were going to be separated forever. This…was a new kind of hell. Of all the punishments that Odin could have conceived, this was the worst. He couldn’t see her. He knew that time passed differently on Midgard than it did on Asgard. She was probably waking up now, clearly having forgotten all about him.

“Loki!” he closed his eyes and rubbed them. Why couldn’t get her voice out of his head? Why couldn’t he have another bought of amnesia to forget her? “Loki! It’s me!” he stilled, not daring to hope that it was her. But, when someone hit the glass with their fist, he spun around to see his Mara standing there before him!

“Mara?” 

she nodded, tears pouring down her cheeks as she said. “Yes.” He jumped up and moved towards the cell window. “You’re still alive!” 

She went to place a hand on the glass but he stopped her. “Mara don’t!” She instantly froze. “It’s not glass. If you touch it, you’ll get electrocuted.”

She stared at him. “What?”

“I’m sorry.” He exhaled. “If I had the time I'd explain, but…I have no idea what you’re even doing here.”

She shook her head as she said. “I must look a sight.”

She did. She was still wearing the white dress that she’d worn last week. She, however, was soaked to the skin. Her dress, being white was completely transparent, revealing that she wore white panties and a purple bra. God, he tried not to think about tearing that dress off her and taking her. It had been a week and he wanted her. He wanted her enough that he contemplated enduring the shock if he were to chose pushing through the wall to get to her. “You look absolutely beautiful.”

“Thank you.” She inhaled before confessing. “I was so worried about you.” 

He then remembered how Odin had erased her memories of him. How did she even know who he was?. “You remember me?”
“Of course I do Loki!” she stated simply. “How could I ever forget you?” 

“Because the spell Odin cast on you, it can’t be broken.” He was stunned. “How, can you remember me?”

“I have a hunch, but,” she inhaled before asking in a lower voice. “did you kiss me?”

he nodded. “Yes, I kissed you goodbye.”

“I thought so.” She said, a blush on her cheeks. She cleared her throat. “When I woke up, it was if I’d never forgotten you.” She shook her head. “I was so worried that you were dead.”

He chuckled lightly. “I'm not so easy to kill, as you’ll find out. Thanks to Frigga, my life will be spared and to her credit, she is attempting to make me more comfortable.”

“She seems nice.” She said. “She’s kind.”

He didn’t want to talk about that right now. What are you doing here? And why did they not give you clothes or warm you up? You’re drenched and you’re shaking.”

“I was standing outside in the rain, shouting at Heimdall to bring me back.” She shifted before stating. “When Heimdall realized that the spell hadn’t worked, he had Thor bring me back here. Odin wanted to find out why I couldn’t forget.” She smiled. “As if any magic spell could ever make me forget you.”

he exhaled in relief. “You have no idea how glad I am to see you.”

“I can. You probably thought you’d lost the one friend you had in the world and they’d never ever remember you existed.”
He shook his head. “I forgot, you’re a writer and your abilities to put yourself in someone’s position is astounding. But yes, your assumption is correct but perhaps,” he studied her as he stated. “a little understated.”

“Perhaps.” She stepped closer to him before asking. “Can you tell me what happened? Why are they doing this to you?” 

He groaned as he shook his head. “Oh, it’s a long story and I'm certain you’ll hate me after you’ve heard it.”

“No I won’t.” he looked at her somewhat dubiously. “Why would I?”

“Because…I'm a monster.’

“No you’re not.” She said firmly. “I don’t know why you’re in here, but I know you. You’re a good person.”

“I’m not. The person you knew on earth, that wasn’t me.” He shook his head as he stated “I haven’t been like that in a long time….but I like who I was with you.”

she held his gaze. “Then maybe…I brought that person back to life.”

“Perhaps. I’ll never know now.” He held her gaze. “When Odin cast that spell, I thought that I’d lost you forever. I’ve been living in hell since then.”

“Those hours were torture for me as well. Now,” she shook her head. “you’re so close, but we can’t touch. I can’t even touch the glass.”

“Believe me,” he said lowly, causing heat to flow over her body. “if I could get my hands on you, I’d be doing more to you than just touching!”

“Loki,” Thor’s strict voice, full of authority caused them both to jump. She placed her back against the confinement walls as Thor and Frigga approached. There were a bunch of guards behind them so clearly, they’d deduced that Mara was here with him. He had no idea how she found her way to him. “she does not concern you.”

“Well, since Mara has been brought here from earth again,” he stated coldly. “how could it not concern me?”

“You know why.” Thor then addressed Mara. “The allfather requests your presence.” Thor stepped towards her gingerly. “I’ve been asked to return you to the throne room.”

“Well, he’s not my father.” She declared. “I don’t have to obey him!” Loki laughed as Thor clenched his jaw. “In addition, I will not submit whatever medical tests he wishes to conduct on me. I refuse.”

“I’m sure, mother will dissuade him of that.” He assured her. “You are our guest after all.”

“Guest? I’m here for Loki, not any of you.”

“As I told you before, you will not be permitted to see him.” Thor said patiently. “Loki is here for committing various acts of treason and endangering others.”

His heart twisted. He really wanted to tell her his side of the story first, but no, Thor and Frigga had to talk first. Mara turned and looked at him, her jade green eyes reading his face. If he could tell her just how sorry he was about all this, he would.
“I’d need more information before believing that.” He was shocked to the core and her soft-spoken words touched his heart. He’d been expecting her condemn him, but she was willing to listen to him. no, she was willing to believe him. Even though she’d heard the worst from them and saw him in prison, she was going to listen to him and believe him. “I’ll be waiting to hear the story Loki.”

“Loki’s not known for being truthful.”

“He wouldn’t lie to me.” Mara said softly without even blinking. “Not Loki.”

“He lies to everyone, even his family.”

“Maybe he has just cause.”

“Thor?” his mother said. “Please, let it go.”

“Mara, my mother.” Loki introduced them carelessly. “Mother, this is Mara.” She said nothing, continue to study Mara. “Is no one going to welcome her properly? Or is her every visit to be getting dragged her unceremoniously and treated like a prisoner?”

“Oh, do forgive me.” Frigga said. “Welcome to Asgard.”

Mara smiled uneasily. “Thank you.”

“Listen,” Frigga approached them and Mara took a step back. “why don’t I show Mara to her quarters? You two can talk more later, after she’s had a moment to settle in.”

To his surprise, Mara shook her head. “I don’t want to settle in at the moment. I want to talk to Loki in private.”

“Contact with the prisoners is forbidden.” Thor pointed out for what was probably the 10th time.

“On our planet, taking someone against their will is forbidden and has serious consequences.” Mara stated, causing him to look at her in surprise. “I have no respect for your rules as you've clearly shown no respect to Midgardian rules. I'm not going anywhere until I’ve finished talking with him and I wish for it to be in private.”

“That’s not possible.” Thor said solemnly. “We’re family and even we’re not permitted to---

“I don’t care!” passion rose in her voice, stopping Thor and Frigga in place. “He’s the only person I know here! I’ve been worried sick, wondering if he was alive or dead. So forgive me, if all I want to do is talk to him!”

“You’ll find,” Loki points out, trying to interject a note of lightness into the atmosphere. “that she tends to be rather dramatic.”

“Look who’s talking!” She snips back at him.

“I'm merely suggesting that they let you have your way,” he says with a slight glower. “or else, you’re going to get angry and frankly,” he studied her glowing face. “I don’t think they’ll know how to handle you.”

“How about this,” Frigga suggested. “Mara, if you come and freshen up and I’ll speak to the allfather about having Loki join us for supper?”

She hesitated. “Alright. But he better be present for dinner, else I'm joining him down here.”

Frigga smiled. “Of course.”

To his surprise, Mara stubbornly crossed her arms and stated. “I’ll wait here.” They opened their mouths to protest but she cut them both off. “I’m serious. I’m not leaving until it’s been agreed that he join us for dinner. I’ll be here once you’ve conversed with the allfather.”

Thor and Frigga exhaled. His mother looked at him as she stated. “She’s a stubborn one.”

“You’re no idea.” He said dryly before barking. “Thor, Mara is soaked to the skin. Your robe would warm her.”

Thor blinked and nodded. “Ah, right.” His ‘brother’. At times he truly wondered if there was a thought in his head. 

Mara nodded at Thor as she took Thor’s robe and wrapped it around her shoulders. She exhaled as she shivered deeply. “Thank you.”

“No problem.”

There’s an awkward silence and then Frigga patted Thor’s arm. “Come on, we’ll leave them to talk in peace.” She gestured for the guards to leave them alone.

“Father won’t like this.” Thor stated.

Frigga nodded. “I will handle your father.”

Mara inhaled and then sat down on the floor. He sat down as well so they were mere inches apart. By the Norns, it was utter hell to be so close and not be able to touch each other. “Well, you’re quite the spitfire,” Loki teased her lightly. “aren’t you? Bossing my mother and brother around. This’ll be entertaining to observe.”

“You’ve, got a lot to fill me in on.” She exhaled as she rubbed her arms. “And don’t you dare leave anything out!”

she was feeling better, he could see it. She’d gotten a bit of her sass back. “Well, to start with, I'm not human.” 

She nodded. “You’re an Asgardian god.”

“Not even that.” He said quietly. After a long pause he said. “I’m a frost giant.” She didn’t even blink. “Aren’t you repulsed?”

“Unless you look like the rancor out of Return of the Jedi, no, I shouldn’t be repulsed. Loki” She was slightly nervous though. “What do frost giants look like?”

He bit his lip before saying. “Blue.” Her brows arched and his temper flashed. “It isn’t amusing!”

“I'm not laughing Loki.” She said gently. “I'm not.”

The anger in him died just as quickly as it arose. “My skin is…marked with…ancient etchings. My eyes are….they glow blood red.” She didn’t react, causing his eyes to narrow. “Aren’t you disgusted? Horrified?”

“You’re asking me, as if I’ve seen a frost giant Loki.” She said calmly. “As I haven’t, all I have is a picture of what I can imagine in my mind. Unless you show me…I’ve no way of knowing.”

“And how do I know that I won’t repulse you?”

“Because,” she bit her lip uneasily before stating. “we…care for each other. We’re very good friends and we’ve…shared many vulnerable moments together. I may be surprised at first, but…I wouldn’t be disgusted by you.” He looked at her dubiously. “We’ve gone through to much to let something like looks cause a rift between us.”

He was silent before finally admitting his reason for wanting to keep everything about himself to himself. Nothing about him was good enough for her to hear. “Once I tell you everything about what I did to wind up in prison for all eternity, it will cause a rift.” He studies her. “I don’t want you to…look at me differently.”

She held his gaze as she declared. “I won’t.”

“How do I know that?”

“You already know why, you must feel it deep down inside you. I can see it.” She held his gaze as she declared. “There’s nothing that could make me feel any less about you. You’re scared of being loved Loki." He hated her right now. "You’ve loved people, your family…and right now you're feeling like they’ve let you down so I can see why it’s natural for you to hesitate when it comes to me. I did the same towards you when we met, tried pushing you away. But, in the end you stayed, so I'm going to stay with you as well. I'm not going anywhere.”

“The man I was on Midgard…is not the man I am here. I am not a good man.”

She shook her head. “That’s not true Loki.”

“It is and you’re right. I don’t trust people. I am,” words started pouring out of him. “damaged, I don’t deserve to be with you and I know I could never be with you because it’s not right. so, there’s nothing for you if you stay here with me and if you did, I’d only hurt you. Sif told me once that I deserve to be alone and that I always will be.” He inhaled before turning his back to her. “So, it’s best if you go back to earth and forget about me.”

She said nothing, mulling his words over in her mind before stating. “I can’t, Loki.”

He stills. “You must.”

“How can I…turn these feelings I have for you off?” he turns towards her, hope blossoming in his chest. She had feelings for him? Never in a million years would he have believed that Mara had the guts to make such a confession. He didn’t know how, maybe the idea of losing him had loosened her tongue. Either way, it was great to hear her words. “I don’t want to be with anyone else you.”

He studied her before smiling faintly. “You’re a fool.”

“Maybe, but so are you.” She smiled at him. “You’re not fooling me Loki. You can try chasing me off and say how you’re not good for me. but, I’ve seen and I know you too well Loki. Regardless of what your mouth says…your eyes always betray you.”

she hesitates. “You saw through me on Midgard, you saw the hurt and you know the ugliest---

“That didn’t make a difference to me.” he stated with conviction. “I loved you.”

“You saw the worst of me and it didn’t make a difference. So, why would your worst change my mind? We’re not perfect and to be honest,” she smiled at him. “I’m a little glad to know that you’re not as perfect as you appear.”

He laughed as he stated. “Far from it.”

“Good. Now, I’d like for you to tell me what happened. I want to hear it from you before they fill me in with their version of the story. Start from the very beginning.”

He did.

Chapter Text

“Well, say something.”

She frowned. “Why should I?”

“Well,” he looked confused slightly. “you must have questions.”

“No, I completely understand why you did everything and it certainly wasn’t treason.”

If Loki weren’t sitting down, he would have fallen over in shock. “Really?”

She nodded. This whole tale, it was really Shakespearean in origin. Loki, was an abandoned child who’d been taken from his home, stripped of his heritage and raised as the son of the king. From the moment the boys were old enough to comprehend the responsibilities of being king, he should have been told the truth. Instead, Odin told them things like they were both meant for a throne. When Loki had disrupted the coronation by letting the frost giants in, in truth, that had been a heroic moment. Thor hadn’t been anywhere near the man he was and to have Thor on the throne, it would have been a disaster for all. He actually saved the kingdom by his actions.

Then, there was Loki’s betrayal. He relayed the conversation when Odin told him the truth about himself. Odin's choice of words had been beyond poor. He made Loki feel like a commodity, a tool to be bargained with and not a member of the family. Loki was already struggling with feelings of self-worth after being forced to live constantly in Thor’s shadow. He was called ‘the lesser prince’ by others and no one, not even his ‘family’ had ceased that kind of talk. Then to find he was this hideous ‘monster’ hated by all, especially by Odin, made him feel even less worthy. In truth, this whole thing could have been avoided if Odin had only said that he loved Loki. She gathered that Odin was the kind of man who didn’t say such words, but Loki needed to hear them so desperately. Now, he didn’t see himself as part of the family because he hadn’t been a part of the family in his mind. But, not all was lost. She could see that he still loved his mother and Thor too. It was Odin that the real issue was. He was right, they did indeed have father issues. Her abuse had been physical, while his had been emotional.

“Yes, Loki I understand everything.” He looks skeptical so she asks him. “You don’t believe me?”

“Not planning to be rude, but you are a mortal and this,” he gestured with an exhale. “entire kingdom full of gods cannot understand why.”

“You forget that I’m a writer.”

“I am not one of your characters.” He sneers at her.

“Clearly. However, we’re all characters in a book Loki.” He glowers at her slightly. “It’s merely a matter of how and when our story gets written.”

He studies her before kneeling. “Then tell me what it is you think you understand about me?”

She clears her throat. “Well, from the moment I arrived, it was very clear that you and Odin aren’t close. You stated that he adopted you as a political maneuver and as a result, he never allowed himself to fully bond with you paternally.” Loki stiffened slightly. “Since you did have a bond with your mother and brother, his absence probably made you feel like an outsider. It hurt you terribly and it must have been a shock when he told you the truth.”

“Enough.” He bit out.

“I’m not finished with my conclusion.” She ignored his anger. He wasn’t angry with her. He was struggling to process a lot of emotions and navigating them would take time. He’d been patient with her, she could be patient with him. “You had all that anger, bottled up inside you and instead of unleashing it on Asgard, you aimed it at Jotunheim. Yes, you allowed the enemy into Asgard. But you killed Laufey to prove to Odin that he, Thor, Frigga and Asgard are your home.” He inhaled sharply and stood up, but she didn’t stop speaking. “That you love them and you would do anything to protect them. If you’d truly hated Odin, you could have let Laufey kill him first and then kill Laufey. But no, a part of you still loves him, which is why this hard for you. When you let go, you were breaking free from the toxic relationship that Odin had kept you imprisoned you under for so many years.” He whips around towards her. “You were finally free, but unfortunately, my roof made sure that you weren’t able to leave.”

He was silent before stating. “You have no right, to see through me like that.”

“Uncomfortable, isn’t it?” he looks down at her. “I remember how when you started breaking down my walls on earth. It was difficult at first but, if you hadn’t, we wouldn’t be where we are now.”

“I’ve always,” he hesitated before admitting. “I just wanted to belong.”

She stood up and placed her hand just above glass. “You do.” He looked up at her, those sad eyes of his showing how desperately he wanted to believe her. “I know, I’m still a mortal but, I think,” she swallowed before admitting. “I think, we belong together.”

Loki looked at her for the longest time before placing his hand close to the glass. He paused before nodding in agreement. “Yes, yes I think we do.” She smiled and nodded at him. “I am sorry about this Mara.”

“It’s ok.”

“No, it’s not.” He shook his head. “My life seems to constantly by putting more burdens on your life.”

She smiled faintly as she said honestly. “Some burdens are worth carrying.” He looked at her as she said. “I truly don’t mind, Loki.”

He exhaled. “We do have to talk about what’s to become of you.”

“I’m not leaving you.” She said firmly, causing him to smile at her. “I am not leaving you.”

He inhaled deeply as he said. “I really don’t think I’m worth your devotion.”

“I thought the same thing about you as well. But, you changed my mind.”

He studied her and stepped closer. “Mara, I---

“Miss Wallingford?” she turned around at the sound of Thor’s voice. He cleared his throat. “My mother was able to talk to Odin and he did agree to allow Loki to join us for dinner, but on one condition.”

Loki shot her a sympathetic look. “There’s always a bargain and condition.”

“I gathered.” She turned to Thor and asked. “What is it?”

“That you allow our healers to examine you.” She looked at Loki, who was somewhat skeptical. “It is…rather a mystery as to how you were able to resist the spell and…we are all curious.”

Loki nodded. “I admit, I myself am somewhat curious. That spell completely obliterates memories. You shouldn’t have been able to remember anything.”

“So,” she asked Loki. “do you think it’s a good idea?”

he nodded. “I'd say so. It may also be of your benefit to mention your head pains. Perhaps Eir will have something to help you.” His green eyes narrowed. “How is your head?”

she sighed as she admitted. “I could use a pill, but, it’s not so bad.”

He nodded and said. “You should go before it gets worse. I will see you at dinner.”

“Alright.” She smiled at him as she said. “I’ll see you at dinner, Loki.”

“Same, Mara.” He smiled, his handsome face lighting up. “I look forward to it.”

Mara blew a kiss at him and fell in step alongside Thor. He didn’t touch her, which she appreciated greatly. He guided her back up to the upper level and took her to the healing room. It was strange. She had to lie on the table and watched as they looked at a projection of her body. They did ask her questions and they did examine her head. They, like the other doctors, didn’t see anything. However, when they took a sample of her blood, something strange happened. Everyone just stared at the sample as if her blood were made of gold. Then things went from strange to bizarre when the head healer, Eir, took off running with her blood. Thor had instantly inquired what was going on, but they were assured that all was well. She was skeptical of that and gotten off the table. She’d been allowed to leave and she’d been grateful. This whole experience was starting to become bizarre.

Thor then escorted her to her bedroom chambers, explaining to her about some of the history of Asgard. She’d nodded and feigned interest. She didn’t mind Thor, he just wasn’t Loki and it felt strange to be in his company while Loki was imprisoned. Her bedchambers, like the rest of the palace were golden and waiting for her was the royal dressmaker, her assistants and her personal maid. That, she didn’t like. She liked to do things on her own and not be dependent on people. She wanted to be able to do things without having someone following her. But she was in Asgard and some rules had to be observed. 
The clothing really wasn’t her style and it didn’t flatter her figure. Everything was loose, as if she were trying to hide herself. She’d been brought dresses of rich yellows, deep red, vibrant orange and several shades of pink. Mara explained to them that she wore black, white, gray, various shades of blue and purple, but green was her favorite color. That, seemed to stir up an unspoken controversy, but she was shown a few green dresses. She eventually settled on a green one with silver fabric inside the sleeves. She took a gold belt and tied it around her waist to bring her in a bit. She hated dresses that fit her too loose, it always made her feel like she had something to hide.

Then, a servant knocked on her door and said they’d escort her to the private dining hall. She followed the servant and again, all eyes followed her. People stared at her in curiosity, women shot her looks of hate or envy. She couldn’t help but wonder just how many of these women were upset that Loki had chosen to love her over all these other goddesses. Truly, these women were all tall and beautiful. She felt very short and chubby in comparison. 

She inhaled deeply before entering the private dining room. She could hear arguing between Frigga, Odin and Thor, but when she entered they all stopped and stared at her. All eyes widened slightly and faced paled. She stopped in place and frowned. “What is it? Did I do something wrong?”

 “Who gave you that dress?” Odin demanded.

She frowned. “I picked it.”

“Why?” he said. “Are you doing that to make a point?”

ok, this old man was getting on her nerves. “My eyes are green, so I wear green often. It’s my favorite color. Is wearing green a crime on Asgard?”

“Forgive us,” Frigga said hastily. “you see, Loki’s favorite colors tend to be green and gold.”

“So,” Thor explained. “when you wear his color, it’s like you’re declaring yourself to be, well, his favorite.”

She blinked in surprise. “Oh. I didn’t know the significance, but I’m making a statement. I’ve always loved green. On earth, his favorite color was blue. I do prefer silver over gold though, there just wasn’t a belt.” She inhaled before asking calmly. “I fulfilled my end of the deal. I allowed your examination and I’ve come. Where is he?”

At that moment, the door behind her opened. She turned to see Loki enter the room, still chained and two guards prodded him inside. He stood there, tall and proud, a cold guarded expression on his face. But the moment he saw her standing there, some of the coldness fade from his eyes. She lifted up her green skirt and stepped quickly towards him. he brought his arms over her head, pulling her into a hug as best as his chained hands allowed. She didn’t say anything to him, for just feeling him against her was enough. 

She could hear Odin and Thor addressing them, but all sounds stopped as Loki pulled her forward and kissed her on the mouth. She instantly wrapped her arms around his neck and returned his embrace. She felt him smile slightly as they lost themselves in each other for a moment. She wasn’t even aware of her feet leaving the floor as he held onto her. she gently caressed his face, running her hand through his hair, losing herself in the moment.

“Enough of that.” Odin said firmly. “You’re here for dinner, that’s all.” 

She let out a moan as Loki broke the kiss. He smiled down at her and gave her a two pecks on the mouth and one on her nose before bringing his hands back over her head. He offered her his arm to escort her to the table. She accepted his hand, intertwining her fingers with his. The sound of the chains on his hands served to unnerve her as they approached her seat. His grip was firm, but there was a sensation about him as if he were aware of something that she wasn’t. But the thing that unnerved her was that there seemed to be something in the room that they weren’t aware of and the ceiling was going to fall down at some point during dinner.

Chapter Text

“Are you alright?” Mara whispered as Loki seated her.

He nodded. “I’m fine.” Loki kissed her once more, prompting her to lean into his as he seated himself down beside her. “You look beautiful in my colors.”

She blushed. “Thank you. I didn’t realize that green was your color.”

He looked her top to bottom before stating. “I’m more than willing to share.”

“Enough of that. Any more of you making overtures,” Odin stated. “and you’ll find yourself back to your cell.” 

Darkness filled Loki’s green eyes, causing him to pull away from her. He exhaled and looked at the food, which might have been appealing a moment ago. “Since when is it his business who you do or don’t kiss?” She muttered, louder than intended. She bit her lip and closed her eyes. “Did I say that aloud?”

“Yes.” Thor stated with a slight disapproval in his tone. But Loki, had a mischievous little smirk on his face. 

“My apologies.” Mara said drolly. “On Midgard, we’re allowed to kiss whomever we want and not be threatened to thrown into prison. Strange, for a country as forward as Asgard, some things are rather…behind the times.”

Frigga blinked. “Your tongue is rather unrestrained.” 

“You’ll get used to it.” Loki stated plainly. “She often blurts out the first thing that’s on her mind. She’s a writer on earth, so, she genuinely can’t help it.”

“Really?” Frigga said with genuine curiosity. “That’s wonderful. I should like to hear some of your tales.”

“They’re rather silly and sentimental works.” She stated honestly. “I only wrote them to pay the bills.”

“I'm sure that’s not true.” Frigga said. “It takes talent to write, a talent that I myself do not possess.”

“I assure you, mother,” Loki relayed. “it is quite true. However, she does write with understanding, so parts of it are quite valuable.”

Her brow arched. “Well, that’s quite an improvement from you chastising my on my ignorance!”

“Well you must admit,” he stated with a mischievous look in his eyes. “that you benefited from my council.”

“Indeed,” she picked up her glass of water and smiled at him. “maybe I’ll write my greatest love story thanks to you.”

Loki gave her a heated look that spoke of his desire as he whispered. “One day, but you haven't experienced it completely, pet.” She choked on the water, causing him to exhale. “You alright?”

“Yes.” She inhaled. “Just…choked.”

Frigga laughs at their exchange. “Did you two know each other well on earth?”

Loki said nothing at that. However, Mara smiled at Frigga. “Yes, we know each other well. We were great friends.”

“That’s good to know.” Frigga’s smile suggested that she knew that they were more than just friends, but wasn’t about to voice her suspicions were. “I was so concerned when he vanished. I thank you for taking care of him.”

“We both looked out for each other.” Loki tensed slightly and she ran a finger over his hand, distracting him. “He took care of me as well.  He had occasion to rescue me and I’m beyond grateful for that.”

“Well,” Thor said attempting to put a light sense of humor at the table. “I hope Loki did an admirable job of whoever was causing trouble with you. He’s never been one for fighting.” 

“I prefer a man who uses brain over brawn.” She said almost cattily. “A man who uses brawn simply lacks imagination and must resort to violence. But I assure you, when the violence was necessary, he did what was necessary to defend my honor without going overboard.”

Silence reigned over the table for a second; clearly, Thor was clearly unaccustomed to having a woman not be attracted to him. He clears his throat awkwardly and says. “So, tell us of your family.”

“I have none.” She stated, hoping to change the subject.
\

He frowns. “No parents?”

“None worth deserving of that title.” She said tightly as she looked towards her plate, which was full of meats, bread, fruit and cheese. “They raised me, that was all.”

“Well, if they raised you---

“That doesn’t make them my parents.” She said sharply, causing all of them to jump. “They aren’t!”

Thor was drawn aback for a moment. “I meant no offense. Truly, I just assumed that you’d have a bond to them since they took care---

“Oh, for god’s sake, leave it.” Loki said in frustration. “She doesn’t want to discuss them!”

Odin spoke up. “She has demanded to be brought here. It is not unnatural to ask questions about her family---

“They’re NOT my family!” She snapped, her blood starting to boil. “I said, I have no family.”

“You are here, on our terms.” Odin said. “You will answer whatever questions are put to you.”

“By the Norns!” Loki slammed his fist on the table as he bellowed. “Her father expressed a desire to bed her and attacked her multiple times, even in public. Her mother defended his behavior. She wound up fleeing for her life.” Everyone at the table was now shocked. “So, no, they are NOT her parents! Now, will you leave her be!?”

there was a long, awkward silence at the table. She exhaled as she placed her hand on his. “Loki.” she said gently. “It’s ok. They didn’t realize it. I’m sure they regret asking.” All was silent until Mara said softly. “Loki, saved me from…him. I’m alright, though.” 

“I wasn’t going to stand idly by,” Loki said firmly, his anger barely being held at bay. “and let him hurt you. Nor will I allow them to bully you into answering questions that you don’t wish answer.”

“Thank you.” She said gently as she gripped his hand. “He’s not going to hurt me again and I don’t believe they were being malicious, just curious.”

“That depends on how long or short your visit here is.” He bites out, his green eyes sparking furiously “If you’re sent back to Midgard, there’ll be no one to make sure you’re safe and Heimdall cannot watch you all the time.”

She studies him for a moment. “You care too much, Loki.”

He glowered at her. “I don’t---
\

“You do.” He stared her down and she smiled at him. “You don’t scare me when you do that. You look like a petulant child, now, stop it and eat.”

“May I remind you,” he said coolly. “that you’re a mere mortal and I’m a god?”

“Yes, but that matters not to me.” She tapped his plate. “Eat and tell me what,” she pointed to an unfamiliar piece of meat with her fork. “this is.”

“Heart of a calf.” Mara dropped her fork and stared at him. He nodded. “It’s a delicacy.”

“It’s only served on special occasions.” Frigga said. “It’s a very tender cut.”

“I shall have to take your word for it.” She inhaled. “I don’t mean to be rude, but, we just…don’t eat hearts down on Midgard. It's... unfamiliar to me.”

Frigga smiled and nodded. “Perhaps, you’ll tell us about some of the foods you do eat on Midgard. I’m sure our cooks will be able to recreate them for you, that way you won’t miss them.”

That caused Mara to drop the piece of bread she was holding. “Miss them? Why would I miss them?” Frigga looked at Odin and the two of them shared a strange look. She inhaled, her heart rising with hope as she asked. “Am I being permitted to stay here? With Loki?”

After a long silence, Odin stated. “It appears, now is the time that I tell you why your circumstances have changed.”

Frigga shook her head slightly. “Allfather, please. Not now.” Odin hesitated and Frigga gently said. “It’s be a busy and stressful day for our guest and she should have time to settle in first.”

“Why don’t we just get this over with?” Loki stated harshly, causing her to grab his hand. “We all know that I wouldn’t be allowed to be here unless this meal involved something dramatic.”

Odin studies him for a moment before stating. “You’re right. Tomorrow, I will be announcing Mara’s betrothal to Thor.”

Mara snorts as she reached for her glass of water, coughing heavily at such a statement. “Oh, that’s a good joke!” As she took a sip, she noted Loki’s set face and dark glower. Then, she saw the look of sympathy on Frigga’s face and the shock on Thor’s. All laughter left her instantly and dread filled her. “Please tell me he’s joking Loki.” 

He was silent before stating lowly. “He appears…to be serious.”

The glass fell from her hands and she jumped up, heart hammering in her chest. “You’ve got to be joking!”

“Be seated,” Odin ordered, “and hear what I have to say.”

“I will not!” she snapped as she stood up. “Are you demented?”

“Father,” Thor questioned. “you cannot be…entertaining such a notion.”

“I have no choice.” He handed Thor the scroll of paper that had been sitting by his right hand. “See for yourself.”

Thor snatched it and Mara turned to Frigga. “Did you know about this?”

She sighed. “Not until this evening, we didn’t know that you two were----

 “This…is a loathsome,” Loki snapped jumped up from his seat. “demented, sick and twisted thing to do!”

“Loki, be seated!”

“Why should he be seated?” She shrieked. “You’re betrothing me to his brother! Isn’t he allowed to express his outrage?”

“It is not my choice.” Odin explained in a voice that was too calm and collected for this situation. “This contract was made when we were at war with Laufey.” She felt Loki tense at the mention of his biological father’s name and she gripped his hand tighter. “The frost giants, were attacking everywhere and Nidavellir came under threat.” He exhaled and said. “You don’t know this, but Nidavellir is home to elves and dwarfs, but they’re known for their craftsmanship when it comes to weapons. They crafted Mjolnier---

“Can you please, get to the point?” Mara stated. “I don’t care for a history lesson at this moment!”

Odin shot her a look. “You, are as impatient as Loki and I am warning you---

“Is she the lost princess?” Loki demanded, causing her to jump. “The one who was stolen by the frost giants?”

Odin exhaled and nodded. “Yes.” She grabbed Loki’s elbow as she all but fell down into her chair. “Nidavellir is a very wealthy kingdom and if we were to forge a union, our supply of such weapons, would be of great benefit to our families.” She could only shake her head in stunned shock. A princess? How the hell was she a princess?? “However, she’s been missing for almost 1,000 years.”

“I’m not a thousand years old.” She stated. “You’re mistaken.”

“Eir makes no mistakes.” Odin stated. “You’re a silver elf, your blood is rare.” That explained why everyone reacted so. “It also explains why you’re resistant to spells. Some elves have that ability.”

“I don’t have pointed ears.” She stated.

“Your ears, were surgically altered.” Odin stated. “In addition, there’s evidence showing that your powers have been suppressed.”

Frigga nodded as she said. “It will take time to undo the warding, but, your powers should recover in time.”

She shakes her head. “No. No, I don’t want this.”

“You cannot ignore your destiny.” Odin stated. “While you and Loki believe to have other plans,” he points to the contract in Thor’s hands. “I assure you, that contract is binding. You, being a silver elf, are one of the rarest elves in all the realms.”

Loki let out an outraged snort. “And you just HAD to add her to your collection of rare and stolen relics, didn’t you? Only this time, you’re giving her to Thor!”

“Loki,” Thor said. “I assure you, I do not want---

“Don’t tell me,” Loki roared. “tell him!”

“Raise your voice to me again and you’ll be back in the dungeon!” Odin stated. “I grow weary of your disrespect.”

“I won’t do it.” Mara stated, causing all eyes to go to her. Her head was reeling, but she knew that she could protest this union. “I refuse to acknowledge the laws and your authority! I’ve lived on Midgard too long and in accordance with their customs, it is my choice, not yours, to whom I marry.”

“This contract must be honored, regardless of your feelings.” Odin said solemnly. “You will wed Thor. I care not if you’re willing, the contract was signed.”

“I do not love Thor,” the words burst out of her before she could stop them. “you doddering old fool!” Odin jumped up from his seat, but she still couldn’t stop herself from shouting so loudly that she gave herself a headache. “I love Loki!” 

all was silent and then Loki asked softly. “What did you say, Mara?” 

God, she was embarrassed. She hadn’t meant to blurt these words out without him having declared his emotions to her first. She trembled and then whispered. “I love him and I…I don’t want anyone else.” She couldn’t look at him, until she felt him place his hand on her shoulder and turn her towards him. She looked up at him and stilled at the look of blazing passion in his eyes. She inhaled as she finally voice the words that she’d wanted to say to him since that night they shared together but she lacked the courage to express the words out loud until this moment. 

“I love you, Loki.”

Chapter Text

She loved him.

Never before did he think that she’d be the one to make such a confession first. There was so much going in this moment that frankly her confession nearly took his breath away. Mara, was indeed a rare woman. Not because she was a silver elf, but because of her devotion to him. And he loved her. He loved her so very much that just hearing those words made his family vanish from the room. There was only her and him in this room that was spinning around them.

He studied her very carefully before saying quietly. “Life, would be so much simpler in this moment if you didn’t love me Mara.”

“I know,” she blushed as the words started coming out of her. “but I-I’ve tried so hard not to say it to you. I’ve been trying to force myself to stay silent and I-I can’t keep it to myself anymore. I’ve wanted to tell you since that night and then I thought that you’d say it first, but…then this whole mess is happening and I lost you and I can’t be silent anymore. I-I love you.” He smiles faintly as she stammered on and on. She has no idea how endearing she looked or how strongly her words are touching his heart. “I am…so in love with you that it hurts. I-I, I just love you every second of the day.” Loki sobers, stepping closer as her words start to make an impact on him. Thor, Frigga and Odin are stunned by the words coming from her mouth. “God, I can’t stop talking now.”

“It’s alright.” He assures her softly as he cupped her face in his hands. “It’s alright, tell me my love.”

She closed her eyes as she exhaled deeply. “I’ve never felt anything like this. Those hours away from you…I’ve never felt such an ache before in my life.” Nor had he. She opened those stunning, jade colored eyes of hers and stared deep into his eyes. “And you know how bad my life has been, how I’ve never had anyone actually want anyone to stick with me because of everything in my past. You made me believe that I am actually worthy of being loved. I-I can’t marry Thor or anyone else. There’ll never be anyone else. I’ve known for weeks, in my heart, even though I’ve denied it to myself, that you’re the only man who’ll ever be in my life.” 

He’s silent as he wipes the tears from her eyes. “Whatever did I do, to deserve you?” 

She holds is gaze as she says softly. “You loved me.”

Such simple words, but they moved him so deeply. “You’re…the most beautiful woman in all the nine realms. I constantly find myself thinking about you even at the most…. inopportune moments of the day.” She exhaled shakily, all her nerves and fears leaving as he assured her that his feelings towards her were mutual. “I feel as if, a link exists between your heart and mine, and should that link be broken, either by distance or by time, ….. then my heart would cease to beat and I would die. And you…you’d soon forget about me.” She inhales raggedly at his words. “But your love, is so steadfast, so pure that…even the strongest magic in the universe couldn’t make you forget me. I do love you Mara,” Mara covered her mouth, keeping her tears at bay. “I desire you so much that it should not be possible to feel so much for one person. I’m sure that I will pay for feeling such happiness. Wrong or not, I will love you till all eternity. From the moment I saw you, I knew I had to have you. Then, once I’d had you, I knew I could never let you go because you’re mine!” She nodded in agreement. “I never thought I'd find love like this. No woman would ever have me because of what I am.”

“Loki---

“Then I met you.” He said softly. “You listened, you saw every side of me and you still love me. I can’t promise you that we’ll have a happy ending…but I will swear that I will fight for it. You mean everything to me and I will not stop fighting for us to be together. For you will be my wife,” he felt the heat flow through her body and her face at his words. “you shall belong to no one but me from this moment forward.”

“You two will cease this discussion.” Odin spoke, attempting to shatter the moment. 

“You’re mine.” He said lowly. “For all eternity and I shall cleave only to you.”

Mara inhaled, tears dribbling down her cheeks as she declared. “No matter what happens, my heart, body and soul belongs to you Loki.”

“Enough!” Odin shouted, causing them to turn and look to each other. “I said, you two will cease this discussion and regardless of what vows you speak to each other, they will be broken. If you’ve put an enchantment or spell on her Loki, break it. It is unfair to put her through such torment.”

Loki glowered at him. “I haven’t enchanted her.”

Mara stiffened as she asked. “What is he suggesting with the enchantment spell?”

“He’s accusing me of using magic on you to make you love me.” He said. “He doesn’t believe that you could actually love me.”

“That’s an outrageous accusation!” Mara snapped. “How dare you!”

“It is the only way to explain why such an unfortunate event occurred.”

“Unfortunate?” she shouts. “Loki is a wonderful person, he doesn’t need to use spells to make me fall in love with him! I assure you, his nature was more than enough.”

“Allfather,” Frigga said. “Loki hasn’t had his powers and these feelings between them…they’ve been growing for months.”

Odin glowered at her. “You were aware of this?” Frigga nodded and he asked. “You did not warn him that such attachments were forbidden?”

“I did, but he was adamant in his pursuit of her.” Frigga held his gaze. “Without the bifrost, I was unable to stop their feelings from growing.”

Odin swore in fury. “There was nothing in your magic that would have worked?”

“No and as you saw,” Frigga said. “she is resistant to spells. There is nothing I could have done to her. Nor could Loki enchant her.”

“Well, now we’ve got a fine mess on our hands!” Odin declared. “She is to marry Thor!” 

 “You will not hand her over to Thor.” Loki stated, his hand digging into her waist. “She is not his to have and I will not let her go without a fight”

“She was never yours to begin with.” Odin pointed out with a glower. “If you hadn’t forced Thor to destroy the bifrost, you’d have never known she existed.”

“If I really am this lost princess,” Mara stated. “I’d have been brought here eventually and I still would have met Loki. Do you really think I’d have married Thor while Loki was here? We’d have still met, just differently and my affections wouldn’t have been any different.”

“Loki, would have known his place and known that you were his brother’s betrothed. He’d known better than to touch you, much less look at you!”

“And what makes you think that I still wouldn’t gone for Loki?” she inquired. “Thor is nice but he is NOT the kind of man I would ever be attracted to.”

“Thor is a good man and he’d make a better husband for you than Loki ever would.”

“Don’t assume you know what kind of man I need in my life!” She stated. “I’ve know you all but an hour, while Loki and I have been in each other’s company for days. Loki would make a good husband for me. He is kind, gentle, loving, protective, strong, caring and sensitive. He listens to me, he respects me and he is patient as he knows my past. We both care for art, music, books and many other things that Thor doesn’t care for.”

“He has a better nature than Loki.” Odin stated. 

“Father,” Thor spoke up. “that is unfair.”

“It’s true.” Odin studied her. “Tell me, would you marry a man who plotted to kill his own brother to take the throne?”

Loki inhaled. Clearly, the warriors had dripped their poison into Odin's ear. “They’re not related by blood and he didn’t plot to kill Thor! So yes, I would marry Loki.”

“He is the god of lies!” Odin reminded her. “Do no assume what he tells you is the truth!”

“Loki respects me, so he doesn’t lie to me!” She shot back. “If Sif and the rest of the warriors hadn’t gone to earth, in defiance of your last order, I can assume the destroyer wouldn’t have even been dispatched. But then, if it hadn’t been dispatched, Thor wouldn’t have learned his lesson and gotten back his hammer! So in short, he did Thor a favor because who knows when or if Thor would have been able to return. And frankly, at this moment, I wish he had honestly plotted to kill Thor so I wouldn’t be stuck with him!” Everyone stared at her, even Loki was momentarily taken aback by her words. She groaned and hit her head. “I'm sorry Thor, I didn’t mean for it to come out that way.”

“I understand.” Thor looked to his father. “Father, after such a declaration, I am less than thrilled to find myself betrothed to her when these two are clearly in love with each other!”

“That is irrelevant. Just because one spell didn’t work, that doesn’t mean another won’t! Silver elves are resistant to spells, but not completely immune. One will be found and she will forget you.”

he exhaled before demanding. “And what of Thor’s woman?” Thor shot him a scowl. “Are you to erase his memory of the woman he loves in order to force him to marry my Mara?”

“Please,” Frigga begged. “Everyone calm down. This has all become too much for everyone.”

“All of this, is irrelevant.” Odin stated. “Thor knows where is duties and responsibilities lay and they are not with that Midgardian woman. Unlike you, you actually can be returned to your proper self. Loki, will be spending the rest of his life, finishing his sentence in prison without you.”

“Then I will live my entire life sitting outside his cell.” Mara said, causing a bolt of pride to surge through him at her words of devotion. 

Odin exhales. “Your devotion to Loki is admirable, but he is a villain and not deserving of it. I’m certain even on Midgard they taught you the distinction.”

“We are taught the distinction between a hero and a villain. That good is the hero and evil is the villain. The hero will always be the savior and the villain is the lost cause.” He inhaled sharply as she inquired. “Tell me this, Odin. What if the only real difference is just who’s telling the story? You’re revered as a hero here in Asgard for your defeat of the frost giants.” Everyone went on edge at her words, even he did. “But I bet if one were to ask the frost giants, they’d call you the most evil of all to walk the realms. There are always two sides of the story as there are two sides to a coin. No one bad is ever truly bad and no one good, is ever truly good. And in truth, all of this could have been avoided if you’d simply said that you loved your son and treated him equally.” 

An uncomfortable silence ensued, all that was heard was everyone breathing. Mara…and her ability to find words that stabbed, even while she was under extreme pressure. She was right, that was what he’d needed to hear all along and to be treated fairly. His entire life had been kept a secret from him and he’d been living a lie. Frigga, was the first to find the words. “All hope, is not lost. I will assist you in persuading your parents to release you from the contract.” Mara gasped at those words. “If they agree…you will be free to marry whomever you wish.”

“Frigga,” Odin said firmly. “the contract---

“I’m aware of the contract but, I don’t see any of them being happy if Mara is forced to marry Thor.” Frigga added in a lower voice. “Not while she’s in love with Loki.”

“She will get over him.”

“And will Thor get over the woman who holds his heart?” Frigga asks. “Don’t we want better for them than to all be trapped in a loveless marriage?”

“Many people have married without love.” Odin said. “Love isn’t an essential emotion necessarily when one marries as it follows.”

“I am free and I belong to myself.” Mara stated. “You will not force me.”

“On Midgard, perhaps, yes you are free.” Odin stated darkly. “But here, you are bound by a different set of rules and it will be difficult for you to adjust. For you, like my youngest, are trouble.”

“No, we’re not trouble.” She turns towards him. “You hate that you can’t control us! That’s what happens when you go around taking people from their homes and hiding things from them. We’re never going to react as you would and then you’re upset that we don’t think like you.”

Odin studies her for a moment before stating, “Even if your parents do release you from the contract…don’t expect to just join him in matrimony. You will spend all your days outside his cell.”

“As I said before…that is my choice.” She held his gaze. “I will never wed Thor and I’d rather die first.” Never before had a woman displayed such disgust at the idea od being married to Thr. For once, he finally had something that was his. Mara's love and devotion.

Odin held her gaze. “We shall see.”

She held his as she stated. “Bring it on, old man.”

And that was the moment that he fell even more in love with this woman. Midgardian/sliver elf or not, she was absolutely incredible. Odin banged his staff down on the ground and the guards appeared. He wasted no time. He pulled Mara to him as closely as his chains allowed and kissed her. Mara instantly latched onto him and he kissed her as if he were imprinting on her soul. Only when the guards pulled him away did he stop, but Mara moved with him, refusing to stop kissing him until she was forcibly separated from him. As he was dragged away, he spotted her rubbing her neck and he thought back to when he’d bitten her. He’d read frost giants mated for life and he’d wondered if that side of him had somehow managed to mark her as his mate for the rest of their days. With that bite, had his jotun form bound her to him for all eternity? Had he claimed his mate? Would his claim be enough to cause a big enough legal issue to invalidate the marriage contract tying her to Thor?

“Loki?” he turned to see her hurrying out of the hall, her tear stained face was actually glowing and shining. “I’m going to go

with you.”
He smiled at her. “Alright, my love.” She slipped her hand in his and for that brief moment, he was a free man. He didn’t know what the future held, but he now had a reason to live. So, he began to plot an escape that would allow him to leave with the woman that he loved.

And this time, no one would ever find them. They'd live a happy life, hopefully with a baby or two while Odin mourned the loss of all those precious weapons.

Chapter Text

“Are you alright?” Loki asked as she held his hand tightly.

“No.” She shakes her head. “I am really, really hoping that this whole thing is just a figment of his imagination.”

“I meant,” he stated calmly. “your head. Are you alright? That was a lot to get in one day.”

She exhaled deeply before admitting. “My head is killing me.”

“You should see Eir.” He said. “She may have something that’ll help.”

“She didn’t see any abnormalities in my head.”

“That’s good to know.” He cleared his throat as he said. “You’re a silver elf. They are sensitive to light. That would explain why your migraines were so frequent.”

“Yes, Arizona and California aren’t really known for being dark places.” She exhaled and then asked. “How the hell can I be 1,000 years old Loki? I’m literally….in my late twenties.” He chuckled. Oh, how she hated revealing her age. “I remember those years. How can I not remember over 900 years of my life?”

“I don’t know.” He stated honestly. “And Heimdall wasn’t able to see you when you went missing, so, that makes things even more peculiar.”

She inhaled and asked. “How could I be missing 900 years of my life, but grow at human speed? By all accounts, I should be dead.”

“Unless,” he said. “you were frozen and hidden away.”

She frowned. “Like cryogenics? They freeze your body and then wake you up after a certain amount of years.”

He nodded. “Possibly, yes. The question is who and why.”

She exhales. “It’s probably just as I suspected from the beginning. I was unwanted.”

“No, since you’re a silver elf, you were most certainly wanted. You were prized, but,” he glanced at her. “your ears were surgically altered, possibly as a child. It’s like… you were hidden away.”

She shakes her head as she said. “There’s probably something wrong with me.”

“Don’t think that Mara.”

“We’ve determined that I was hidden away for some reason. My ears altered to make me pass as human. My powers were stripped away and I was to die as a mortal. The only reason for burying me like that is to give everyone else time to stop looking for me and forgetting me.”

“That is, assuming you were buried in the first place.” 

At that moment, Sif and the warriors were heading towards the hall, most likely looking for Thor. The men ignored him, but Sif was staring down Mara. As Sif passed  by them, she hissed at Mara. “Whore.”

Mara’s mouth dropped open in shock and she turned towards him. “Excuse me?”

“You heard me.” Sif stated. “You’re Loki’s whore.”

“Better Loki’s whore than Thor’s wife.” Mara stated without blinking.

Sif’s eyes bulged and she opened her mouth, but Loki cut her off. “Have a care Sif. This is Runa. The missing princess of Nidavellir.” His guards, the warriors and Sif all froze. “If she were to demand your head…Odin might be obliged to honor her demands.”

“You lie.” Sif said.

“Ask Thor, he’ll tell you exactly as I’ve told you.” He couldn’t resist adding. “Ask him about the marriage contract, as to how he’s been betrothed to her for years.”

Sif’s eyes widened and he enjoyed the brief look of pain in her eyes. Sif loved to torment him, so when he had to opportunity to dish some of it back, he enjoyed it. He and Mara turned back to the path that led down to the dungeons. “Who was that?” Mara inquired.

“Sif.” He stated simply. “She’s a friend of Thor’s.”

“Some friend.” She swallowed uneasily. “For a minute I thought she was an old love of yours.”

“You’ll find, the women on Asgard prefer my brother.”

She placed her hand on his with a faint smile. “Aren’t I lucky that they’re so stupid? Why  would anyone prefer your brother over you?”

“Oh, he’s heir to the throne, strong, blonde hair.” She made a face causing him to laugh. “He is a stupid oaf and easy to manipulate. So, what woman won’t want a man like that? I am dark, moody and you can’t trust me.”

“I trust you.” She said simply.

“You shouldn’t.” He warned her. “I’m unpredictable.”

“Unpredictable is interesting, besides, my nature is all over the place as well. You can read me and I read you, I think that’s a good thing She inhaled before saying. “We should talk some more once we’re alone. There are so many things that I want to talk to you about. But I will trust you, without reservation until you give me a reason not to trust you.”

That was again, something that made her different. She loved and trusted without reservation. he’s silent before stating honestly. “I promise that, I won’t break your trust.”

She smiled at him. “I know.” 

They walked in silence until they reached his cell. The guards undid the chains around his feet while she waited. Soon, it was just the cuffs around his hands and when they guided him in the cell, she followed. One of the guards, stopped her. “You’re not allowed in his cell.”

“Then let me say goodbye to him.” 

The guards looked at each other, trying to decide if she was worth listening to. Loki cleared his throat. “You may want to confirm for them that you’ve given them an order.”

“It was an order.” She caught on quickly to what he was saying. “Stand down and wait until I’ve said goodbye.” This time, they all shuffled a short distance away. She shook her head as she approached him. “I’m not good at this.”

“You’ll be fine.” She inhaled as he cupped her face in his hand. “You already walked like a queen on earth. You’ll be my queen in time.” He memorized her beautiful face as he declared quietly. “I will get out of this and when I do…I’m going to take you away from Asgard.”

“I’ll be waiting for you.” She said softly. “I love you.”

“And I love you.” He leaned forward and kissed her deeply, causing her to moan. God, she was perfect. After indulging in several potent kisses, he pulled away and studied her. “You should go to your chambers. The dungeon isn’t’ a safe place for you at night.”

She nodded. “Alright. I love you Loki.”

He nodded. “I know.” As she turned, he leaned forward and pressed a kiss to her neck, right where he’d bitten her. She let out a gasp and shivered. He’d done something there. She was excessively sensitive there. He exhaled and murmured. “I will come for you, my pet.”

She inhaled as she whispered. “Please, hurry.” 

And with that, she stepped out of the cell and watched as the guards removed his final bonds and then the door was sealed. He nodded at Mara to go and she did with a forlorn expression on her face. She was so beautiful and she was all his. 
He exhaled and turned back to the small writing desk in his cell. He needed some books to do some research on Nidavellir, silver elves and the process, as Mara called it, cryogenics. He didn’t know who would freeze her like that, but she was right. Something had been done to her to keep her from Heimdall for so long. Even when she was brought here, Heimdall hadn’t realized who she was. He thought her to be mortal. She’d been tempered with somehow. The only way they’d found her true identity was because her blood had been drawn. Elves had red blood, but silver elves had a silver ring around each cell, setting them apart. 

He shook his head. It all made sense why Mara had suffered for so long. She thrived in the evening and darkness. Her specific breed of elves were super sensitive to light. She’d have to protect herself when going outside. They stopped aging around twenty-six, meaning that Mara would have these looks for the rest of her days. She was absolute perfection. She would possibly have some magical abilities, depending on the traits of her parents. That was good. Their children would be very strong. Yes, silver elves as a rule didn’t have large families. But judging by her want and need for him, she’d make an exception. He exhaled and closed his eyes, imagining Mara’s slim body, full and swollen with his child. He instantly got hard and he cursed himself for even thinking about that. He couldn’t think that way until he was inside Mara and then, only then, would he think such thoughts.

He’d sent off for the books and they’d been brought to him. He started up on reading about Nidavellir. He was halfway through, when the prisoners began to make a sound. He looked up to see Mara there with a pillow and blanket in hand. He frowned as he got up. “Mara? What is it?”

“I can’t sleep.” She explained as she put the pillow on the ground and the blanket down. She was fully dressed, but still, it was dangerous for her to be here. 

He was beyond confused. “So, you’re going to sleep here? On the floor?” she nods. “Why?”

“Because,” she yawns as she sinks down on the floor “I’ll sleep better knowing you’re here.”

It was the mating bond. He’d disturbed it by kissing her. She couldn’t sleep now and it was his fault. He exhaled. “Mara, I’m so sorry.”

“It’s not your fault. It’s mine.” She inhaled raggedly. “God, I want you to kiss me so badly right now.”

“I will,” he said gently. “one day…there won’t be any walls between us. You should sleep now, tomorrow’s another day and you’ll need your strength.”

“I will sleep now.” She said as she drew the blanket around her. 

he smiled down at her. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” He watched her as she closed her eyes. He shook his head. He truly wasn’t worthy of such devotion from her. A guard passed by, patrolling and Loki spoke. “Hey.” The guard turned towards him and looked surprised at seeing Mara there. “Go get another guard and have him guard her. If something happens to her,” he threatened. “you’ll wish Odin took your head by the time I’m done with you.”

The guard didn’t look intimidated, but he did summon a guard who stood in front of his cell. Mara was somehow able to sleep and she slept long and hard. He, however, didn’t get a wink of sleep because he watched over her with the guard. But he called to her and they held onto each other through this secret bond that existed between them. He did catch an hour here and there, but he could sleep later. 

When the morning arrived, he was relieved to see her sitting up and watching him, that delicate smile on her face. “Good morning.”

He exhaled and moved towards her. “Good morning.”

She smiled as she said. “I was waiting for you to wake up. I’m going to go get changed and then make myself some breakfast.”

He bit his lip. “I doubt they’ll give you access to the kitchen”

“But I want an omelet. Do they make omelets here?” He shakes his head. “Do you want one?”

he did. “If it’s not inconvenient.”

“No, it’s not.” She smiled. “I’ll be right back.”

“Take your time.” He assured her as she folded up her blanket and pillow. “You should try to sleep in your room tonight.”

“It’s big and I’m all alone in there.” She exhaled as she admitted. “It feels…like a prison.”

“My love,” he pointed out. “you slept all night in prison.”

“But it felt like home, because you were there.” He could understand that. She exhaled. “Nothing…feels familiar to me. You, are the only thing on this entire planet that I know and understand. So, I want to be near you.”

He exhaled as he said. “I’m not sure, I deserve you.”

She smiled at him. “You do.” He shook his head as he admired her. “I’ll be back with breakfast.”

“Ok.”

“Oh,” Mara said in surprise. “hello, Thor.”

That, caused him to crane his neck. Thor was approaching and he had a determined look on his face that Loki knew all too well. Thor, however pasted a smile on his face. “There you are princess---

“Don’t call me that.” She said instantly. “Please. I hate it. Just call me Mara.”

Thor exhaled and glanced at him. He shot him a look and Thor nodded obligingly. “Alright then, Mara. I was looking for you as you missed breakfast.”

Mara nodded. “I overslept. I’m going to go make breakfast.”

“Uhm,” he hesitated. “I do not think that you’ll be permitted to---

“Do your cooks know how to prepare omelets?”

Thor shook his head. “Uhm, no.”

“So, I will make my breakfast. I’ll be back with Loki’s as well.”

“Right.” Thor nodded to the guards. “Escort her out of the dungeons and do not touch her.” The guards nodded at him and they escorted Mara up the stairs. Once she was out of earshot, Thor approached him. “What was she doing down here?”

he shot Thor a look. “What do you think?”

“Loki!” Thor growled. “You know that it’s not safe for her down here.” Loki gestured towards the pillow and blankets, which caused Thor to still. He stared at them in shock. “Do not tell me that she slept down here!”

“All night.” He stated darkly, causing Thor to exhale. “how’s it feel, to be standing in one’s shadow for a change? It must be so unnerving to have a woman, especially one as beautiful as Mara ignore you.”

“Loki---

“And not only that, she’s a silver elf, who is sure to inherit all of Nidavellir and it’s wealth.” He grinned as he stated. “She’ll never give herself to you.”

Thor exhaled as he said. “Enough Loki. I came here to talk about this. So, do you want to talk or just trade insults.”
That, was new. Thor never talked, not in the real sense. Oh well, Thor’s woman, Jane, had been the making of him. He exhaled as he brought his couch towards him. “Very well then,” he sat down and crossed his leg as he gestured. “talk.”

This, would be very interesting to say the least.

Chapter Text

For a long time, neither brother spoke. As always, Loki was the one who grew weary of waiting. “Well? You wanted to talk. Now talk!”

“Loki,” Thor said. “it’s not safe for her to be down here Loki.” Thor stated. “It’s a prison and we have the most brutal guards down here for a reason.”

“Which is why I was up all night watching over her.” he exhales. “I cannot persuade her to leave me, she refuses.”

“You’ve always had a way with words.” Thor said. “Tell her not to come down here.”

“I told her it was dangerous, but you must realized that she is not like Asgardian women. She’s independent, headstrong and she will do as she pleases. She will be down here every night with me, no matter what.”

Thor shakes his head. “I don’t believe that.”

He chuckled. “I know. After all,...it is so rare that a woman prefers my company to yours. It must be very strange and difficult for you.”

“Loki,” Thor said firmly. “I came here to try and make things easier. You know that father will not terminate the contract---

“And she,” he stated. “will not let me go. Nor will I make her see sense in marrying you just to make life easier for all of you. She is mine to have, not yours.”

Thor exhaled as he said. “I do not wish to take her from you, brother---

“But you will.” He stated. “You’ll protest a little, but in the end,” he tilts his head to the side as he sneers. “you will do as he commands. You always do.”

“Shut up, Loki!” Thor snapped at him. “You know I have Jane. Why in the world would I want Mara?”

Loki held his gaze before stating. “One need only look at her to know why.”

Thor was silent for a long time before stating. “Yes, she is very beautiful Loki.”

Loki nodded, his blood starting to simmer a little. “She’s intelligent, gentle and extremely devoted.”

“That she is.” Thor said. “But I feel nothing for her as she feels nothing for me. Now you,” Thor exhaled as he stated. “I have cause to question.”

Loki sat up and demanded sharply. “What does THAT mean?”

“Do you love her?” Thor asked him directly. “Or are you using her?”

“Why are you asking me that?” he asked in extreme annoyance. “Is it not obvious?”

“No. There was once a time that I could trust you.” Thor stated. “I used to, but I don’t and if you don’t feel anything for her you should let her go. It’s cruel of you to hold onto her if you just intend to use her.”

“You must truly believe that I’m incapable or deserving of love.” He shook his head in disgust. “You know what I feel her, it’s stupid of you to even ask.”

“I don’t think you’re incapable of love.” Thor stated. “It’s just that you showed disdain for Midgardians.” He couldn’t deny that. He knew it to be true. However, by the time he’d returned to his old self, it was too late. He’d fallen in love with Mara. “She’s also…a very valuable asset. A princess of extreme wealth. Marrying her would be a way for you to claim a throne, extreme wealth and power.”

Loki shakes his head as he inquired. “Do you truly think so little of me?”

“If you’d asked me last year, no. Today,” Thor shook his head. “I don’t know now, Loki. I wish I knew but I don’t.”

He shrugged. “Fair point, but, however, do you truly believe that I'd go through all that for the throne when I told you I never wanted yours?” Loki shook his head before stating. “You’re jealous.”

“Of what?” Thor inquired. “You two may have each other, but you’re separated in a cell. You may not even be allowed to marry!”

“Because I shall always possess her and you never will.” Loki smiled. “I may not be able to touch her, but I will always have her and you know this! And there’s not a single woman, anywhere that feels the same about you. Would your Jane be as patient if you were in my place?” Thor said nothing, causing Loki to smirk. “No. She wouldn’t and you know it.”

Thor was silent before stating. “I do not want to be with her Loki anymore than she wants to be with me. Mother and I will make our objections to father, but you know how he will not back down on his word.”

“Especially when it involves rare and unique artifacts.”

Thor exhales. “Just…get her to stay out of the dungeon Loki. You can’t protect her in there and there’s only an amount of protection that can be afforded to her.”

As Thor turned to walk away, an idea hit Loki. He exhaled as he stated. “There is a way.”

Thor paused and turned towards him. “What is it?”

“You won’t like it.”

Thor frowned. “I don’t even know what it is.”

“You still won’t like it.”

“Loki!” Thor snapped. “What is it?”

God, he loved irritating him. He chuckled before stating. “You need to take her back to Midgard.” Thor starts shaking his head. “See? I told you that you wouldn’t like it.”

“Father will not allow it Loki.”

“Yeah. Anyway, moving on.” He said dismissively. “She hates her room.” 

Thor locks shocked. “What?”

“She says it’s like being in prison. So, if you and your warriors go back down to Midgard and collect her things---

“She has everything she needs here.” Thor stated. “Everything that a princess would---

“Here’s the thing,” he stated. “if you keep calling her a princess, she will hit you one day. Don’t do it. She hates it.”

Thor’s brow arched. “She is a princess though.”

“Her stepfather used to call her that.” He bit out slow enough for Thor to understand. “It upsets her.”

Thor nodded. “I did not realize.”

“No. Because none of you know her.” He exhaled. “She values her collection of things. If you wish to make her more comfortable, make her feel at home. If her room feels like her own, she’ll stay there during the night.”

“I’ll consider telling father.”

“At least get her books and music.” Thor paused in place, letting Loki know he was listening. “And she has a special box in the library, with her favorite wine and treats. Also, her favorite teas are in the middle shelf in the pantry.” Thor turns towards him. “Also, there’s a small jar that reads ‘coffee’ on the kitchen counter, but it’s really her chocolate stash.”

“How do you know all this Loki?”

“Because I know her.” Loki stated. “You all can question my feelings for her, but I know her in ways that you’ll never know.”
He and Thor stood there looking at each other for the longest time. He’d hated Thor for how he’d been treated, but now, this hate growing inside him was unlike anything he’d ever felt. It was as if he’d swallowed acid or boiling lava from Muspelheim. While Mara had sworn her affection to him, women did prefer Thor and if she were to change her mind, she wouldn’t be the first.

“Loki.” He looked up as Mara approached with a guard. “I brought you breakfast.”

“Thank you, pet.” She blushed as the guard showed her how to put the food through the ‘slot’ for him. “You didn’t have to do this for me.”

“I wanted to.” He took the tray and caught her hand. She exhaled and stepped closer to him. He pressed a kiss to her fingers, causing her to sigh. She then reached up and caressed his face. She sighed as she said. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Thor cleared his throat, causing Mara to jump. “Oh! Thor,” she exhaled as she said. “I didn’t see you standing there.”

Loki looked at Mara and saw that she wasn’t pretending. He couldn’t help but laugh. Thor was finally knowing what it felt like to be in someone’s shadow. “It’s alright.” He cleared his throat as he said. “I was conversing with Loki and he suggested that we bring you to Midgard to collect your things.” 

Mara gasped with joy as she looked at him. “Did you Loki? Truly?”

“Yes.” He nodded. “It’d make you feel more comfortable in your room.”

“I have nothing on for today.” Thor cleared his throat. “I just need to gather some men together and then, I’ll take you back to Midgard.”

“Oh, thank you.” Tears welled up in her eyes and he knew that’s what Mara needed. “I want my own clothes again! I miss chocolate, tea and my books! I’ve missed my  bed so much!”

Thor looked at her as if she were mad, but Loki knew. He understood just how hard she’d worked to get to her place in life. She liked things a certain way. She liked comfort, not luxury. Everything in Midgard was luxury and knowing Mara, she was probably afraid to touch anything.

Thor nodded and he said. “I shall go to make arrangements. I’ll send a guard to fetch you within an hour.”

“Thank you.” Mara said. “That’s very kind of you.”

“Well, we cannot have you sleeping in the dungeons.”

“And keep her covered, Thor!” He said as Thor turned to walk away. “She’s sensitive to the sun and heat!”

“Yes, Loki.” Thor said.

“If you can make it rain, that might be a good idea!”

“Loki,” she said. “I’m alright. He’ll look after me.”

“Not as well as I would have.” He stated as he looked at the length of her body. ‘You…look utterly ravishing in my colors, my pet.”

She blushed. “Thank you, but I’m wearing silver.”

He shakes his head as he states. “I care not. You are so beautiful.” She wore a simple green gown with flowing sleeves and silver embroidery. “No matter what you wear,” he said in a low voice. “I wish to rip it off you and have my way with you.”

She blushed vibrantly. “Loki, please.”

“I mean it.” He exhaled lowly as he declared. “The things I will do to you as soon as I’m out of this cell.” She flushed redder. “I would relay it…but you haven’t eaten yet and I’ve no wish for you to faint.” 

She shook her head. “You…are going to provide…a lot of inspiration for my next book.”

“You’re writing about me?” he inquired. “I’m flattered.” He looked at the tray, laden with fruit, bread, bacon and sausage next to the omelet. Her plate was on this tray, but with less food. He frowned. “Is this enough substance for you, pet?”

“Yes, Loki. It’s enough.” He shook his head. When she was stressed, she didn’t eat. He began putting some of his meat, bread, a few pieces of cheese and the berries on her plate. “Loki---

“If you’re not healthy,” he stated directly. “you won’t be able to bear our child.” She went red at those words. “So, eat and keep your strength. For I will be free one day and you need to be ready for me.” He looked her dead in the eye as he asked. “Do you understand me?”

she nodded. “Yes, but…now I can’t eat a bite.”

He laughed as he handed her back the tray. “Eat up. You’ll be in Midgard and it’ll be a busy day. You’ll need your strength.”

She shook her head as she took the tray. “Alright.” She sat down on the steps and he sat near her. As they ate, she asked him. “What shall I bring you back from earth?”

He glanced at her before stating. “Just yourself, alive and unharmed. That’s all I ask.”

She smiled at him. “I’ll be well, I promise.”

She better be. If she came back with one scratch on her, Thor was going to wake up bald!

Chapter Text

“Right,” Thor cleared his throat uneasily as he said. “these are my friends. The greatest warriors in all of Asgard.” Mara tried to appear interested, but felt like she was failing. In truth, just hanging around Thor made her feel as if she were betraying Loki.

“This is Volstagg.”

She nodded. “Nice to meet you.”

Volstagg nodded. “An honor.”

“And this,” he said with a smile towards a slightly, sulking man. “is Hogun.” She nodded at Hogun, who appeared to be sizing her up. “And this,” a tall, blonde and obvious ladies man stepped forward. “is Fandral.”

Fandral took her hand and leaned forward to kiss her hand. “An honor to meet you.”

She pulled her hand free and said hastily. “I’m spoken for.”

He, didn’t appear offended by her actions. “A shame, you,” his brown eyes eyed her flirtatiously. “and I might have enjoyed each other’s company.”

A soft, feminine snort caused her to realize that Sif was there. Why was she not surprised that Thor was friends with a woman like that? “And this, is Sif.” Thor said without bother to hide his admiration for this woman. “The fiercest female warrior in all of Asgard.”

Sif’s eyes met hers and Sif went still as she recognized her. She nodded before stating. “When she’s not going around calling other women whores.”

Thor frowned. “Excuse me?”

Sif shot her a look, clearly hoping that Mara would say silent. She didn’t. “When I was walking with Loki after that disastrous dinner with your family, she called me a whore.” 

Sif inhaled as Thor looked at her in surprise. “I was unaware that you were of royal---

“That doesn’t matter.” She said. “You didn’t even know my name and your first impulse was to call me a whore for loving Loki. And just now, you sought to make excuses instead of immediately apologizing.” She turned to Thor and said. “I understand that she is among your friends, but in truth, her manners are sorely lacking.”

“I’m sure,” Thor said. “that she meant no disrespect.”

“Her calling me a whore, indicates otherwise.” She exhaled deeply. “Can she be left here to supervise where each item goes and we take two servants in her stead?”

Thor’s brows rose in surprise as he inquired. “You jest, right?”

“No.” She shook her head. “I will get over her calling me a whore, but I do not need to endure her presence for the day. In addition, we’re going to my house, my property. It is my right to not have her there.”

Thor exhaled and he nodded. “As you wish.” He turned to Sif and said. “You will see to it that her room is cleared out. Then, you will wait at the bifrost and make sure that all her items are carted to her room.”

Sif’s dark eyes rose as she hissed. “Are you serious?”

Thor spoke in a lower voice. “She is of royal blood and since you did offend her, yes, I must accommodate her wish.” Sif said nothing and Fandral gestured for two men to step forward. Thor cleared his throat and offered his arm. “Shall we?”

She folded her hands and nodded. “Yes.”

He studied her and then nodded. “Yes, I forgot.” He turned to Heimdall. “Will you open the bifrost?”

Heimdall nodded. He put this large sword into this unusual device, almost similar to the legend of Arthur and the stone. The room began to spark and fill with lightning. She inhaled, trying not to show how unnerving it was as the room began to spin before sparking full of multi-colors. Suddenly, they all were sucked forward into the spinning vortex and they were flying through the air again. She closed her eyes, ignoring the sights swirling around below her. The sounds were just as terrifying though. With a whoosh, they all found themselves standing on her front lawn.

Well, they stood. She landed on her stomach. She let out a groan before getting to her feet, brushing off her hands. Thor did offer her his hand, but she ignored it. He chuckled. “You and Loki…it took him a while to get a hold of the bifrost.”

She simply nodded. “I can imagine.”

As they advanced towards the house, Volstagg said. “Strange building you live in.”

“It’s not much, compared to the palace.” She said. “But it’s the only home I’ve ever known.” She punched in the code to the front door and pushed the door open. To her shock, the whole house was covered in police tape. She turned to Thor and asked. “How long was I gone?”

he exhaled as he said. “I don’t know. Time doesn’t run the same.”

She groaned. “Alright, give me a minute.” She picked up the landline and dialed Gwen’s number. Gwen picked up on the first ring. “Hello? Gwen, it’s me---

Mara?! She screamed and started sobbing into the phone. You’re alive??

She exhaled. “Yes, Gwen, I’m alright---

The police, she cried. they’ve been looking for you for two weeks!!

She stared. “Two weeks? I’m sorry, I was only gone for a day.”

A day!? No. Gwen inhaled. Mara, they actually arrested Harold.

She nodded. “Gwen, please, calm down for a minute and listen to me. I’m alright. I’m not hurt.”

Where were you!? What happened?

She sighed and stated. “I was kidnapped.” That stunned Gwen into silence. “But it’s alright. It’s a long story. Can you please, come and meet me here at my house? I’m going to be leaving again and I don’t think I’ll be coming back.”

What do you mean you’re not coming back!? Gwen shouted. You can’t do that!!

She sighed. “Gwen, I need you to come here. If I tell you over the phone, you won’t believe it. Should I call walker?”

He’s here. Gwen said. He’s in the guesthouse. He’s been struggling to find you.

“Ok, I’m really sorry for the trouble. I’ll have pizza waiting for both you when you get here.”

I don’t give a damn about pizza! Gwen shouted. When I get there, I am going to kill you!!

“Yes, I’m sure you will.” She couldn’t help but laugh as she said. “I missed you, Gwen.”

Yeah, yeah. I am….I’m going to kill you!

“Alright. Pick your weapon when you get here. Goodbye.” She hung up and said. “Right. You guys are probably going to be hungry in an hour or two. So, I should order a couple of pizzas.”

They all frowned and Thor asked. “Order what?”

“Pizza.” They all wore vacant stares on their faces. “Right, none of you have ever had pizza.” She dialed up the local pizza parlor, ordering once of each large pizza, 100 wings and a liter of each soda flavor. She nodded. “Alright, the food will be here in, roughly an hour because they thought I was joking. Still, we can get a few things ready to go.”

Thor nodded. “Yes, Loki mentioned something about a special box in your library.”

She chuckled and nodded. “Indeed, he’d know.” She sighed. “Let’s start with my room. You guys can figure out how best to get the bed out. I’ll go get the packing tape.”

It really didn’t take the men long to get her bed out and on the back deck. Next to go were all her books. She had Fandral get all the boxes and suitcases from her attic. She then packed all her favorite dresses in the suitcases, but it was her books that she truly loved. Candles, pictures and other special things were packed up as well. Heimdall would open the bifrost and collect the items when the pile started to get large. Her library took forever because she owned over 5,000 books, which annoyed all of the men.

Fandral even went as far as to say. “No wonder she and Loki hit it off well. All they do is read!”

Her typewriter and notebooks were packed up as well. Her mini refrigerator was sent up as well. Thor had spotted her looking at her French settee, couches, and ordered the servants to take those out as well. Her matching crystal lamps and end tables went as well. When Thor said that their scientists could make alterations so they’d work without the plugs, she added her record player and CD player. She had a HUGE music room and they were halfway through when Gwen showed up with Walker behind her.

Gwen came running at her, tears running down her cheeks as she shrieked. “You’re alive! Oh, God!” she held onto her tightly as she said. “You’re really alive!!”

“Yes. I’m fine.” She held her tightly and hugged her. “I’m fine.”

“Gwen said you were abducted.” Walker said. “Who took you? Was it that Thomas?”

she sighed and shook her head. “You won’t believe me, but no, Loki didn’t kidnap me.”

Gwen frowned. “Loki? Who the hell is Loki?”

“Loki is Thomas’s real name. He got his memory back.”

“Excuse me,” Thor stepped forward as he asked. “who is this?”

Gwen promptly stared at Thor, causing her blue eyes to nearly pop out of her head. “Oh my God, the gods took their time with this one!” she shook her head as Gwen asked. “Seriously, Mara. How do you have all of these gorgeous men just popping up into your life?”

She sighed as she said. “It’s a curse. Gwen, this Thor, crown prince of Asgard. Thor, this is my honorary sister, Gwen.”

Gwen went still as she asked. “Prince?”

“Are you kidding?” Walker demanded. “He’s a prince?”

“He and Loki both are.” She said simply. 

“Hold on,” Walker said. “where the hell is Asgard on a map?”

“It’s not.” She said. “It’s in the skies.”

Walker exhaled. “Have you lost your mind?”

“No. I wish I had. That’s why S.H.I.E.L.D was at my house. They’d already met Thor. You remember heading about that giant robot that attacked that town?”

“That was fake and you know it!” Walker said. “No way, was that real!”

“Well, it was.” Mara said as she gestured for them to look outside at where Heimdall was opening the bifrost for her furniture. “Loki sent the destroyer to kill his brother, Thor and he fell here from Asgard. He hit his head and forgot everything. Now, he’s currently in prison for his crimes. I am currently not allowed to return here to earth---

Gwen gasped. “What?! Hold on---

“nor do I want to.” She assured her. “Not while Loki is up there. I’m staying to be near him.”

“Near him?” Walker asked. “Are you saying, that you and that other guy---

she nodded. “We haven’t put a label on it, but, yes. We’re together.” For a long time, Gwen and Walker stood there looking at each other and then the doorbell rang. She exhaled and said. “That’s the pizza.”

Walker shook his head. “I’ll get it and I want a whiskey.”

“You don’t drink---

“Today, I do!”

she shook her head as he walked away. Gwen leaned closer, her face a brilliant red as she hissed. “Why didn’t you warn me he was a prince before I opened my big mouth?”

“Because you’re so easy to embarrass.”

Gwen shot her a look and Walker shouted. “Who the HELL orders 25 pizzas, 100 wings and 15 bottles of soda?” Yes, today was going to be anything but a regular day.

Chapter Text

“There was one time, when we were children, he transformed himself into a snake and he knows I love snakes.” Mara giggles softly, already knowing this is going to be a good story. “So I went to pick up the snake to admire it, and he transformed back into himself and he was all like, “Ah! It’s me!” And he stabbed me. We were eight at the time.” By now, Mara is laughing and shaking her head in amusement. Thor looks at her. “It wasn’t funny.”

Gwen shook her head as she said. “That was terrible, Mara!”

“I know, I’m sorry, but,” she gasps for air before sobering slightly. “I didn’t have any siblings to do things like that when I grew up. So, I didn’t have anyone to play pranks on me, get me into trouble or anything.”

“You had me!” Gwen pointed out, only to pause and rethink on it. “Never mind, I HATED pranks.”

“Yes, so, these kind of stories always sound like part of a childhood I wanted, but didn’t have.”

Silence reigned around the table for a moment before Thor said. “We should be going.”

Mara nodded as she stood up reluctantly. “I suppose.”

They’d dallied here far longer than necessary. Thor had talked her into sending up her TV player along with her dvds after everyone had indulged themselves on pizza. All the warriors, especially Volstagg, loved the pizza. Mara placed an order for Loki’s favorite pizza, a garlic parmesan sauce with chicken, potatoes, pancetta and spinach to come and it was still warm. Gwen and Walker had questioned Thor and the others thoroughly about Asgard and they were convinced that she hadn’t lost her mind. Gwen had adapted easily, both she and Fandral were hitting it off pretty well in fact. Too well in fact, considering that she was engaged. Not that she blamed her. Fandral was charming, when compared to Alex and Gwen was stunning today. She’d forgone her bleached, blonde hair and had gone back to her natural red hair which reached below her shoulder blades.

“Must you?” Gwen said as she stood up. “I’m not ready for you to go.”

“Seems a shame to part such cheerful company.” Fandral said.

She shook her head. “I’ll be fine. Nothing will happen to me.”

Gwen held Mara’s gaze as she declared. “Then I’m going with you.”

Fandral lit up. “That’s a charming idea!”

“No.” Mara shook her head. “I can’t allow that. You and Alex---

“He broke up with me.” Gwen stated calmly. “Turns out you were right and he really is a stupid prick. He was cheating on me, so, I don’t have anything to stay here for!”

Thor studied her. “So, you’ll be returning with us?”

“Yes.” She nodded. “I’ll just need to call my parents and let them know what’s going on.”

Mara shook her head. “Gwen, I can’t ask this of you---

“I know. But,” she exhaled. “I'd already closed down the business, I was planning to take a year long sabbatical after you went missing. Why not spend some time up in Asgard with you? Besides, you know I’ve been wanting to get back into my painting. I’ll make a fortune as the ONLY artist in the world to have seen Asgard!”

“And perhaps,” Fandral said. “you’d be interested in seeing other worlds.”

Gwen nodded as her face lit up. “Yes, I would!”

She turned to Thor and asked. “What would your father say?”

He paused and shrugged. “I know not.”

“It’s possible,” Hogun said. “that she may help her friend settle in better.”

“Yes.” Gwen said as she speed dialed her parents. “And unlike Mara, I don’t need anything brought. She likes things familiar, I can lump it anywhere.” Her head jolted. “Hi mom! Dad! You are not going to believe this.”

She looked to Thor and confessed. “I would enjoy her company, if possible.”

He exhaled and nodded. “I’m sure we can have a room drawn up close to yours.”

“Thank you.”

“No, I’m not.” Gwen said. “Look, here she is!” Mara waved, Gwen’s parents were on video call. “I’m alright! Look, in a moment, I’m going to get sucked up into this beam. Call Walker and he’ll explain everything that’s going on.”

Gwen, her father said. I’ve heard of crazy things in my life, but this insane!

“I know, but, it’s really quite the opportunity. I can’t afford to miss it! Time goes differently there, so, I’ll be back a little bit past a year. Please, don’t worry about me. I’ll be perfectly safe up there!”

Thor looked up and ordered. “Heimdall, open the bifrost!” she handed him the pizza and he nodded. “I’ll guard this.”

“Thank you.”

Gwen, her mother asked. Are you sure? It doesn’t look safe.

“I’m sure, I’ll be perfectly fine!”

WHOOSH! 

They all went swirling up into the sky and Gwen let out a ‘yee-haw’ as she went flying through the air. Again, Mara closed her eyes and once again landed on her stomach once they arrived while Gwen landed on her feet. “That was fun!” Gwen declared as she helped Mara to her feet. “Let’s do it again!”

She shook her head. “Let’s not and tell everyone we did.”

Gwen laughed. “You always hated flying and heights.”

“That and flashing lights.” She exhaled deeply as she acknowledged Heimdall. “Gwen, this is Heimdall. Heimdall, this is my friend, Gwen.”

Gwen smiled at him. “An honor to meet you.”

Heimdall nodded at her. “Welcome to Asgard.” He shot Thor a look. “Another mortal?”

Thor nodded. “Yes. Is there transportation for us?”

Heimdall nodded. “Yes, there’s a ship waiting for us. Sif, had everything taken care of.”

Thor nodded. “That’s good.”

“She will, wish to have words with you.” Heimdall said in a voice that suggested that Sif wasn’t happy with her situation.

He nodded. “I shall see her soon. Now,” he turned towards her and Gwen, extending his hand. “shall we?”

Mara nodded. “Yes.”

She let Gwen take Fandral’s arm and they got on the ship. This time, she got to see Asgard properly. It was a beautiful country, not doubt of it. Gwen, she was completely in love with it. She pointed at the assorted buildings, asking which one was which and Fandral accommodated her. God, she hoped that Gwen didn’t find herself falling for that ladies man. She really had the worst taste when it came to men. Thor, Hogun and Volstagg all watched them chat with amusement on their faces. No good would come of this, she was sure of this.

The arrived at the ‘landing ground’ and Fandral helped Gwen out of the ship. Thor did offer her his arm and she politely declined. “No thank you.”

He nodded. “Let’s see to your chambers, see that everything is in order.”

“Thank you.” But she wouldn’t be staying long. She had a small box of Loki’s things and she wanted to take that to him along with the pizza. 

Gwen and Fandral prattled along, sounding like complete idiots falling in love. Gwen was always brilliant and she acted as if the Asgardians weren’t any different than mortals, which was nonsense. They made it to her room and Sif was yelling at the servants. “Who the hell has this many books!?”

“Yeah,” Sif spun around to see all of them standing there. “I do.”

Sif exhaled hotly. “Forgive me, I didn’t see---

“Yes, I know.” She moved past Sif and began looking for the box that belonged to Loki. Her room was full of boxes, but Loki’s was the only wooden box, so it was quite easy to spot. She picked it up with an exhale and took the pizza box from Thor. “Thank you. I’m going to see Loki really quick.”

“He can wait a minute.” Thor said. “We should get your friend settled.”

“Let her go.” Gwen said. “It’s alright. She’s been missing him all day.”

“Thank you Gwen,” Mara said with a smile. “I promise, I won’t be long.”

“It’s alright. I’ll be here when you get back.” And with that, Mara scurried out of her room, anxious to get down to the dungeons and see the man who’d been on her mind all day.

“It’s really disturbing,” the woman said. “the way she hangs all over Loki.”

Gwen frowned. “Excuse me, but I don’t believe it’s your place to comment on their relationship.”

“Gwen, this is Sif.” Thor said. “She’s part of the warriors.”

Gwen nodded at her. “Nice to meet you.”

Sif exhaled as she said. “You don’t know what Loki did. He’s not worthy of anyone’s praise.”

“That may very well be,” Gwen stated. “but I know Mara. I grew up with her and I have seen her overcome a great many adversities. She’s also never known love before Loki and I respect it. I’m not sure how you Asgardians have a view on love, but that’s one you don’t cross.” she smiles faintly. “We should all consider ourselves lucky to have a love like that.”

Sif snorted. “She loves a villain.”

“He wasn’t a villain on earth. He was by your standards honorable, brave, kind and protective to her. he treated her with respect and put her needs above his.” All the warriors shifted uncomfortably. “He’s very gentle with her and he never hesitates to do as she asks of him.”

Thor frowned. “Loki doesn’t heed anyone’s requests.”

Gwen smiled at him. “Did you ever think that because he loves her that he listens to her? Does your brother act differently

since they’ve known each other?”

“That’s hard to say.” Thor shook his head as he rubbed his beard. “Loki’s emotions are ever changing.”

“Let me rephrase that,” she holds his gaze. “do you see him act differently? Does he seem happier?”

“At times.” He nods. “I suppose you could say that.”

“But that doesn’t matter.” Hogun said. “Because Odin will not let Loki leave the cell, nor will he allow them to marry.”

Gwen frowned. “Why on earth not?” all eyes went to Thor and she said. “Tell me.”

Thor exhaled deeply. “Apparently, when she was born, my father betrothed me to Mara.” Gwen gasped and her eyes bulged. “We have to marry.”

Gwen stared at him. “No.” She shook her head. “Please tell me that you’re joking.”

“I wish I were.”

She stared at them. “But…why? If they love each other and you see a change in him---

“It’s a contract,” Thor said tightly. “I have no sway over it. Believe me, I have tried.”

“If she is making him change, taking her away will only allow for him to become darker and that won’t do anybody any good. I daresay he would tear the universe apart if anyone were to dare to hurt her. He nearly succeeded once. I shudder to think what he’d do to you if you did marry Mara.” Everyone stared at her in shock at those words. She exhaled and cleared her throat. “Forgive me, it’s just…arranged marriages are a thing of the past in our world. It’s so archaic and as in this case, just…wrong.

“Sometimes,” Thor said. “alliances are necessary to help the kingdoms moving.”

“I can agree there, but, I see no reason in allowing two people who love each other not to marry. Now,” she cleared her throat. “considering the luck that I’ve been having with men an arranged marriage might just work out fine for me. But not Mara, she wants love, flowers, the whole romantic thing.”

“So,” Fandral asked. “you’d be fine with an arranged marriage?”

“Possibly.” She said as she reflected on her dating history. “I’ve been engaged twice and each time, something goes wrong and I get hurt.”

Fandral chuckled. “You were engaged twice? What happened?”

She exhaled as she said. “Well, with my first fiancé, we got into an argument and he hit me.” They blinked. “That was the first and last time he ever did it because I called the police and had him arrested. This second one…I suppose I could blame Mara, but frankly, she saved me from this. Alex, seemed like a good man.” She shook her head. “He was kind, funny and everything that I wanted. Then Mara vanished and we started fighting. One day I came back from work and found him having sex with some woman in MY bed!”

“What?” Thor said.

“You’re kidding.” Fandral said with a look of shock on his face. “Well, the men of Midgard appear to be fools to let you two beauties slip from their fingers.”

“That’s alright.” She said. “Better now than later.”

“Well, that’s just as well,” Fandral said as he placed an arm on her shoulder. “now, you can see fit to entertain men more worthy of your company.”

Gwen laughed and shook her head. “I see what Mara meant when she called you the flirt.”

“And there’s nothing wrong with that.” Fandral said. “Might I have the honor of your company at the banquet tonight?”

Gwen nodded. “Yes, I'd love to.” She looked down at her clothes. “But I don’t think I’m suitably dressed.”

“No.” Thor cleared his throat. “Sif, why don’t you show her to the dressmaker? See to it that she has everything in order.”

“Alright.” As Thor walked away, she said. “Thank you!” he simply nodded and continued on his way. She turned to Fandral and said. “He walks like he’s got the weight of the world on his shoulders.”

“Which one?” All the other warriors laughed and she smiled even though she didn’t think it was funny. Fandral took her hand and pressed a kiss to it. “I shall eagerly await your company at dinner.”

“Indeed.” She nodded as she looked around. It was a beautiful palace and this would be a worthwhile vacation for her. Nothing serious would happen and she could have a little bit of harmless fun with Fandral. And maybe, just maybe, she’d be able to help Mara get her happy ending with Loki.

Chapter Text

Where the hell was she?! 

It had been nearly an entire day since he’d seen her and he was now getting anxious. She was down on Midgard just picking up a few things, it shouldn’t have taken this long! But, she was in Thor’s company and Thor…yes, Thor could claim he wasn’t manipulative, but he could be. Thor could say that he didn’t want Mara, but Loki didn’t believe him. He’d caught a glimpse of Thor’s eyes yesterday when he and Mara vowed to be true to each other. He’d been envious. Thor may not ant Mara, but he wanted what Mara represented. Eternal love and Thor might just be fool enough to think that he’d be able to have that with her.

“Loki!” he turned around from where he was pacing to see Mara standing there with her eyes shining and her arms full. “I’m back!”

“I see.” He stated as he approached her. “You were gone for a while.”

“Yes,” she said. “apparently, I'd been gone for a while on earth. Two weeks, the police had gone through my house. I had to contact Gwen and Walker’s looking for you.”

He held up his hands. “I’m sure you told him that I didn’t do anything to you that you didn’t want me to do.”

She chuckled. “I did.” She held up a box of pizza. “I brought you some things.”

He shook his head as he approached her. “I don’t deserve you.” He really didn’t. He and his paranoia had been thinking the worst and she’d only thought of him.

“Loki---

“Truly, I don’t.” She fed his pizza box through, causing him to inhale deeply. She’d remembered his order. “Thank you, pet.”

She shakes her head as she says. “I really should be offended by the way you say that, but I’m not.” 

He chuckled as he asked. “How was your day?”

“Tediously long, but,” she smiled at him. “I feel better now that I’m seeing you.”

She smiled as he picked up the books. He exhaled with a smile. “I love these stories. Shakespeare was a man ahead of his time.” He glanced at her and said. “If you have any extra copies, you should have Thor take you to the theatre.”

She exhaled as she said. “I get the distinct impression that he will not enjoy the theatre.”

“You’d be right, but, others would.” He said. “I do recall hearing there being arguments for a new production. Perhaps ‘Romeo and Juliet’ might suit.”

“Indeed, I’ll walk a copy over and see if they’d enjoy it.”

“I hope that you enjoy the chocolate.”

He walked towards the cell and placed his hand on the window. “I will.” She placed her hand near the glass, so it was as if they were touching. “I missed you.”

“I missed you too.” She smiled mischievously. “Your brother and the warriors told me about all the ways you used to torment them growing up.”

His face stiffened. “It wasn’t as bad as they make it sound.”

“I believe it, but I had no idea you were so mischievous.” He blinked in surprise. “I mean it, some of those pranks of yours were amazing!”

Loki stares at her. “Are you serious?”

“Yes. I knew you were intelligent, but your magic must be incredibly strong since you continued practicing. I can see why they’d fear you now.” His eyes narrowed. “People often fear what they can’t understand, but, I’m not scared of you.”

“You should be.”

“I don’t think I ever could be. In truth, you’ve always been the most fascinating man I’ve ever known. Tell me, what powers do you have?”

“A few,” he paused and thought for a moment. “shape-shifting, astral projection, teleportation, hypnosis, cryokinesis, telekinesis, telepathy.”

“You can read minds?”

“If I want to.”

“Can you read mine?” he nodded and after a moment, she asked. “You did read my mind, didn’t you? That one night?”

he nodded as he stated. “Yes, I did.”

She paused and asked. “W-what’d you see?”

He exhaled deeply before saying gently. “Why you didn’t want to be in a bed with me.” She blanched a little bit. “I’m sorry for the intrusion, Mara.”

“So, you know?” she asked. “You know what he did to me.”

He nodded. “Yes, I do.”

She inhaled sharply as he set down the box of pizza and held her hand. “Y-you know what he---

“I love you.” He said, drawing her back to him. “I love you, Mara.”

Her voice broke as she said. “But I-I’m spoiled---

“If it were in my power,” he said firmly. “I'd have your powers restored and you would sit atop a throne. All members of royalty would kneel and swear their loyalty to you, recognizing you as their queen. And finally, I myself would kneel and pledge my everbeating heart to you.”

She stared at him. “I thought…queens in Asgard don’t sit on thrones.”

“They don’t.” He said. “But I would make an exception for you, my love. For you deserve to be raised up and worshiped my love.” He pressed her hand to his lips and kissed her, causing her to inhale. He kept kissing her knuckles, the tips of her fingers and her wrist until she relaxed. He hadn’t meant to upset er, but he’d wanted to know. “I swear, I won’t ever read your mind again.”

“Thank you.” She whispered before clearing her throat and asking. “What other powers do you have?”

“Hmm,” he continued concentrating on her wrist. “levitation, conjuration, molecular rearranging, longevity, durability and of course, strength.”

“That’s amazing.”

“To you but…such things involving magic are frowned on here.”

“Why?”

“It just is.” He lets out an exhale. “It’s not ‘natural’ to them.”

“I’d love a demonstration or two of your powers once you’re out.”

He said nothing, but held up his free hand. Mara watched, only to gasp in amazement as fireworks went off in his hand. “Mara?” Thor said.

“Shhh,” she held up a hand and stared at Loki’s hand in pure amazement. “have you seen him do this? This is amazing!”

Thor exhaled. “All the stuff has been placed in your room. Gwen is ready to go to the feast and awaiting you.”

“I’m not hungry.” Loki closed his hand, ending the firework show. She shook her head. “Absolutely amazing Loki.”

He merely smiled at her. “Go on, enjoy your dinner. I’ll talk to you more tomorrow. Thank you, for the pizza, the books and the chocolate.”

“Thank you for showing me your magic.”

“Mere parlor tricks.” Thor stated. 

Anger surged through him and all the furniture in the room went flying against the walls, causing Thor to jump. Mara, his mischievous pet looked impressed. Loki grinned at him. “Unless, I haven’t revealed all to you.”

Mara smiled even brighter. “I wouldn’t be surprised. A great magician, never reveals his secrets. For all they know, you can probably break out of these cells, but you’re just biding your time, waiting. If I do have powers, I hope you'll help me learn how to use mine.” Loki simply smiled at her, causing Thor to shift uneasily. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“I look forward to it, my love.”

Thor held his arm out to Mara, who ignored it. He had to give Thor props for trying, but Mara, she wouldn’t play Thor and Odin's game. “You can go to the feast. I’ll just have something in my room.”

“You should go,” Thor encouraged. “it promises to be fun.”

“No thank you.” Mara said. “I’ll be in my room organizing my stuff. Perhaps, you can send a few of your scientists over to see if they can fix my TV, record player and CD player so as to not need a plug to function.”

Loki chuckled and shook his head. Mara was a stubborn one and he loved her being set in her ways. No one would manipulate her. She loved him and he needed to get his paranoia and jealousy under control. He had her hear heart and he’d already explored her wonderful body. Thor would never know her the way that he did.

CRASH!!

Gwen bolted up and ran over to the open window. It was raining and thundering unlike anything that she’d ever seen in her life. It was fantastic and terrifying at the same time. Terrifying. Mara was terrified of thunderstorms and this one, most like had her hiding under the bed. Gwen grabbed her robe, pulled it on and hurried to Mara’s room. She didn’t even bother to knock. She just went in and turned on the light. The window was shut. The bed was a mess, but when she peered underneath, Mara wasn’t there. A quick investigation of the bathroom showed she wasn’t there either. She must have gone down to the dungeon.

Now, Fandral had already showed her where his room was. He’d been a sheer delight, but he was a notorious flirt and ladies man, so, Gwen couldn’t trust him in a long-term relationship, but he’d be a bit of fun which was all she was looking for right now. She left the room and went up the hall to Thor’s room. She didn’t want to disturb him this late, but he said if she needed anything to call on him, so she did. She inhaled and knocked on the door. No response. So, she knocked on the door again, harder this time. 

“What!?” he roared on the other side as the lightning crashed.

“Thor?” She said, noting how the lightning stopped when he heard her voice. “I’m sorry to disturb you, it’s Gwen. Might I have a word?”

“Yeah.” He exhaled and she heard him get up from the bed. She remembered that Thor was the god of thunder and she wondered if he’d unintentionally been causing the storm. The door swung open and he asked. “What is it?”

ok, all questions went out of her head at the sight of Thor’s bare chest revealing perfectly sculpted and bulging muscles with a perfectly tapered waist on which his pants hung very low. She swallowed. Damn, this man was fine as hell. Not that there was anything wrong with Loki. Thor’s appearance confirmed that Mara was head over heels in love with Loki, for she hadn’t given Thor a second look. Because in all seriousness, this man was unbelievably gorgeous.

“Uhm, forgive me. it’s just,” she shifted uncomfortably drawing her robe around her. “Mara isn’t in her quarters and I was thinking that maybe she was---

“Down with Loki.” Thor nodded. “I’ll accompany you.”

“That’s not necessary,” she said as he pulled his sleeping shirt over his head. “I just wished to know where the cells are.”

“You’re a guest and it’s not good for you to be alone, wandering the prison alone. It’ll only be a moment. Besides,” his dark eyes dance mischievously. “you’ve already awoken me.”

“Well,” she cleared her throat. “that was quiet a storm outside. You probably had all of Asgard awake.”

“Ah,” he nods. “that happens sometimes.”

She laughs faintly. “I can imagine.”

As they walk down the corridors, he says. “Do you think you can keep your friend from sleeping down in the dungeons?”

She shakes her head. “No, not likely.”

“Why?”

she sighs. “Because, while Mara can be overly dramatic at times, she is deadly loyal. She’ll go to bat for others, but not for herself. Besides,” she asked him. “how many times have you been in love?”

Thor frowned. “Excuse me?”

“In love. You know.” She teases. “You like the girl. She likes you. Things start getting serious.”

He chuckles as he shakes his head. “A few times.”

“Same, possibly dozens.” She exhaled as she said. “Mara’s never been in love before and I can’t speak for Loki, but you can.”
He exhaled. “Loki doesn’t really do love. He just…flits around from one woman to the next.”

“Till her, then?” Thor nodded reluctantly. “So, no, I don’t’ see her giving up spending time with Loki at night. Not to mention, she doesn’t fare well with thunderstorms, so I’ve no doubt that she’s hiding.”

“Oh.” Thor shook his head. “I didn’t know.”

“Mara takes time to know, a lot of time and work.” She said. “But once you do, she’s a very sweet and loyal friend.” He nods and they come down to the cells. She can see that it’s difficult for Thor to even be here, but he still pushes on. The prisoners leer at her a little and she steps into his side, nearly losing her balance because the man was like solid muscle. “Sorry.”

“No one will touch you.” He said, his words sounding like a promise.

She nodded as she muttered. “Good to know.” 

When they approached Loki’s cell, the lights were on in his and Mara was curled up in a ball near the cell. She frowned as Thor asked. “What is she---

“The thunder.” Loki explained. “It’s not like that on Midgard.” Thor reached for her and Loki glowered at him. “I wouldn’t, she’s just fallen asleep.”

“She cannot sleep here.” Gwen said. “It’s not good.”

“Then you talk to her.” Thor said. “Loki refuses to.”

“I’ve told her, she says she’s not leaving me.” Loki snapped. “Get that through your head, you witless oaf!!”

“Alright, enough. Both of you!” She exhaled as she said. “I do agree with Loki, picking her up and moving her…that’ll make things worse.”

“I’m watching her.” Loki said. “Just make sure that none of the guards dare approach her while I’m here. Just reinforce that order.”

Gwen exhaled and asked. “Does she do this often? Sleep here?”

“Yes. I’ve tried, but she will not leave me.” He studied her, his green eyes seemingly contrite as he says. “Perhaps she’ll listen to you.”

“Maybe.” She turns to Thor. “I don’t suppose there’s anyway that you’d let him out to---

“No.” He shakes his head.

She sighs. “Alright, then, I guess, I’ll stay down here with her until she awakens.”

“No.” Thor said. “It’s not safe.”

“Well, if Loki can’t move her, you can’t move her and I know for a fact that waking her is dangerous, I see there is little else we can do.”

Thor studied her before exhaling. “Alright. I’ll put a few more guards down here, but Loki, this can’t continue.”

“Word of advice, brother.” Loki said sarcastically. “Midgardian women do as they please. No matter what.”

There was a long silence and then Thor said. “Father only allowed the trip because he had Hogun drug Mara with another memory potion.” 

Gwen felt the blood in her body freeze at those words. “What?” Loki snarled.

Thor exhaled. “When she wakes…she won’t remember who you are.”

“You knew this?” Gwen demanded as she stood up. “You knew that he was going to do this and said nothing to her?”

Thor exhaled guiltily as he said. “Yes, I did.”

Gwen was normally a mellow person, or so she’d like to think that she was. However, in that moment her buried temper surfaced. She grabbed the helmet off the guard standing nearby and struck Thor upside the head with the helmet!

Chapter Text

“Wake her up.”

Loki ordered as fear, anger and horror terror filled his entire being. The furniture started vibrating in the room as Thor’s words sunk in. Mara had been given a potion. Potions, now, those were another thing. Those could flow into her bloodstream and then get carried directly up to her head. Right now, Gwen was just staring at Thor in pure shock. Frankly, he didn’t have a moment to be surprised at Gwen’s actions, but he’d thank her for hitting Thor later.

“But---

“WAKE HER UP!!” He shouted at Gwen, causing her jump. He knelt down on the floor, looking at Mara’s unconscious figure. “Wake her up and make sure that she’s looking at me!” Gwen hesitated a moment and he shouted. “NOW!!”

Gwen moved, quickly kneeling beside Mara and rolling her onto her side. He inhaled, breathing deeply as he looked at her. Thor shook his head. “Loki---

“Shut up Thor!!” he shouts. “Just shut up!!” he knelt down to be directly in front of Mara. If she saw him before the potion had seeped completely into her veins, she’d remember him. Gwen shook Mara who bolted upright with a shriek. “Mara!” He shouted as he hit the glass, ignoring the electrical charge as he drew her focus to him. “Look at me!”

she looked dazed and confused. “Loki?” God he’d never been so relieved to hear his name spoken before. She inhaled. “W-what’s wrong?”

“Mara?” he held her gaze. “Do you know who am I?”

she frowned. “Are you kidding---

“Tell me how we met, now!” he ordered her.

Her eyes narrowed and she snapped at him. “You crashed into my house and set it on fire, you reeky, self-centered, bastard!” he couldn’t help it, he just started laughing in sheer relief. She was upset, that was normal, but she remembered how they met. “This isn’t funny, Loki!”

“Mara,” she whirled around at Gwen’s voice. “I’m sorry, we had to wake you up---

“WHY!?”

Gwen inhaled. “Hogun drugged you. He put a potion in your soda that would make you forget Loki. We had to wake you up to disrupt it.”

“I saw already saw Hogun try to drug me.” Mara sniffled and wiped her eyes, clearly exhausted. “I switched glasses with him.”

Loki started howling as Thor’s eyes bulged. “You what?”

“Hogun drank the potion. Not sure what that’ll mean, but,” Thor ran out of the room as if his hair were on fire. Mara yawned primly before stating. “I guess we’ll find out.”

“Mara,” Loki shook his head. “you are absolutely amazing.”

“Debatable.” She yawned and laid back down. “I’m going back to sleep.”

“You can’t stay here.” Gwen said. “It’s not safe for you.”

“I’m fine.”

“Mara, we brought your bedding and everything from earth. The least you could do is sleep in it.”

“But my room is a mess, I can’t sleep,” she yawned again. “while everything is a mess.”

Gwen shook her head. “Mara---

“Go on.” Loki ordered as he laid down on the ground and summoned his pillow and blanket from across the room. “Mara’s fine. The guard, that you managed to disarm rather easily, will be replaced by someone a bit more up to task.”

Gwen blanched as she whispered. “I hit…a prince.”

“Yes.” He chuckled as he said. “Thank you for that.”

“But,” she inhaled. “I shouldn’t have done that. I’m a guest.”

“I know!” He said. “But…I am so very glad you did. It was utterly delightful!”

“It’s not funny!”

“I thought it was.”

“Both of you,” Mara mumbled. “be quiet and let me get back to sleep. Please.”

Gwen exhaled reluctantly .” Alright. I’m sorry about waking you up.”

“It’s alright.” Mara mumbled. “Thank you…for making sure that I was alright.”

“I'd still feel better if you were up in your bedroom.” Gwen said. “It’s pretty dark and spooky down here.”

“Take a guard back with you.” Mara said. “I’ll be fine. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Gwen exhaled as she said. “I worry about you.”

“Try not to.” Mara yawned. “With the morning…worry about me. Because something new always happens. At night, I cannot be disturbed. This…is the only peaceful moment I’m allowed.”

Loki cleared his throat and ordered the guard who’d picked up his helmet. “Escort the lady Gwen back to her chambers. They’re near Thor’s.” The guard nodded and stepped towards Gwen who shook her head.

“I’ll go but, you cannot remain down here after your room has been put to right.”

Mara didn’t answer, so he said. “Tell my brother to get those thunderstorms of his under control.”

Gwen nodded and left the dungeons. Loki exhaled and rubbed his aching head. God, it felt as if his head were going to burst open from all the pounding. That was close. That was too close. Odin was desperate enough to try to drugging Mara. He wondered if his mother had been complicit by preparing the drug for Odin. It wasn’t safe for her here. She was getting attacked by everyone.

“You were worried about me,” she said sleepily. “weren’t you?”

he nodded as he said. “Yes. I wasn’t expecting…they won’t let up, Mara. They want you to be Thor’s wife.”

“And I want to be yours,” he warmed with pleasure at her words. “so, they’ll have to get used to disappointment. It’s you or no one for me, Loki.”

“Same, my love.” He exhaled. “One day, I will take you away from all of this. Away from everyone here and encompass you with my love.” She smiled at those words. “My arms ache to wrap themselves around you and hold you close to me again. To smell the scent of your hair and to taste your intoxicating lips again. I made love to you once,” that made her open her eyes. “I wish to claim you in the fullest the next time I am able to put my hands on you.”

She held his gaze as she said. “I wish for that too, Loki. Please, try to get free so we can leave this wretched place as soon as possible.”

He chuckles as he points out to her. “You’re in a palace, surrounded by riches and all the finest to be had in all the 9 realms.”

“I'd rather be in your cell with you.” She said softly. “I'd rather spend the rest of my days in that cell with you, than spend them as Thor’s wife.” He couldn’t help but smile at those words. He wondered what goddess she was. Yes, elves were demi-gods, but some of them could be deities. It was this moment that he began to suspect that Mara was one of the rarest.

A goddess of devotion. But that wouldn’t be revealed until she ate an apple from Idunn and that day…it couldn’t come fast enough. Mara, was indeed a rare prize, but he’d loved her before knowing what she truly was. And he would be the envy of every man in all the realms having won her heart and trust.

One week later,

Mara ran down the steps with an exhale and she moved to Loki’s cell. He saw her coming and started laughing. “I thought you were supposed to be getting a history lesson.”

“Yes,” she stated. “history, even on earth is boring. Asgardian history, is even more boring!” Loki started laughing as she approached him. “I’m also supposed to be getting a tour of Asgard, but that sounded boring and I don’t want to be in your brother’s company.”

“If you’re trying to make me love you more, you’re succeeding.” He states bluntly. “Besides, Thor doesn’t know half of his family history.”

“I’ll wait until you’re out to give me the tour. I’ll stick to the palace until then.”

“Well,” he moves to sit down on the floor her. And with a wave of his hand, an illusion of Asgard outside her room shows up. “I can still give you the tour, if you’d like.”

“Yes, I’d love it.”

Mara sits down on the floor, not caring about her skirts. Loki smiles charmingly at her before  taking her ‘out the window’ and exploring the palace grounds. Despite Odin's threats to die her down and drug her again, she and Loki were able to maintain a solid relationship. Odin still wasn’t aware that she and Loki visited each other frequently. Mara, refused to be broken down. She refused to attend the banquets and she prepared her own food and drink, which she took in her room. She was given multiple tutors who were to prepare her for becoming queen. But she would have none of it. The history, science, language, fighting and all of that, she detested. The only class she did enjoy was dancing because she wanted to be able to dance with Loki one day. She remained indoors mostly, refusing to go outside or associate with anyone who wasn’t Loki. 

Gwen, had been frequently chastising her for her stubbornness. She and Fandral had become very good friends, Mara was fairly certain that they were sleeping together. Gwen, had adapted very quickly to Asgardian life. She loved the clothes, exploring, the food and the people. Mara, had remained very set in her Midgardian ways which caused many people to look at her with disapproval in their eyes. She did feel as if she were being very disrespectful at times, which she hated. But she wasn’t going to fall into the role of Thor’s future bride and queen. That meant generating a lot of harsh feelings to some people. Not to mention, since she'd successfully drugged Hogun, resulting in him having a complete memory loss, everyone was wary of her now. 

“Mara.” Thor comes around the corner with Gwen beside him. “We’re looking for you.”

“You all can go on without me. Loki is giving me a tour of Asgard.”

“Loki,” Thor exhaled. “she has not been outside of her room since she’s arrived. She cannot remain cooped up inside forever.”

“Yet,” Mara points out. “you would leave Loki locked up forever. Talk about double-standards.”

Thor exhaled and looked to Loki. “A few hours will not hurt her. Can you not persuade her.”

Loki studied them a moment and then asked. “Where would you take her?”

“Loki!” she said sharply. “I’m not leaving you.”

“My love,” he said gently. “not that I don’t enjoy you and your company. You’ve spent every day outside my cell. While I do appreciate and admire your devotion, it’s not good for you.”

“And is it any better for you?”

“I’m fine, I assure you. but please, spend a few hours outside, get some sun.” she opened her mouth but he cut her off. “Please, you need no be long.”

She sighed. “If you insist.”

“I do. I’ll be waiting for your return and tell me all that you have done and seen. Then we shall continue our tour.”

“Fine.” She reluctantly got to her feet. “But we’ll stick to the palace grounds, I want Loki to show me outside the palace.”

Thor looked like he wanted to state that day would never come, but instead he nodded. “Of course.”

“Come on,” Gwen said as she took ahold of Mara’s arm. “we’re going to visit the training grounds.”

“Thor!” Loki said. “Take care of her! I want her back with no injuries!”

“Yes, Loki.” Thor said. “I will watch and guard both girls with my life.”

“See that you do!” He stated. “Mara is worth ten of you!”

she shook her head as she looked at Gwen’s attire. She was wearing tan trousers, a red Midgardian blouse, gold bracelets on her wrists that looked like they belonged to armor and brown boots. “What are you dressed up for?”

“Thor says there’s an archery range and he's arranged for me to have a bow and arrow.” Mara nodded, understanding Gwen’s excitement. Gwen handed Mara her sunglasses. “I can’t wait!!”

“Yes, perhaps you’ll show off a little?”

Gwen shook her head. “I couldn’t!”

“Why not?” Mara said. “They already think us Midgardians are weak. Might want to give their top archer a run for their money.”

“Is that a challenge,” Thor inquired. “I hear being issued?”

“No!” Gwen said hastily.

“Yes!” Mara said. “Gwen, is a VERY accomplished archer. Perhaps, there might be a contest between her and one of your best archers.”

Gwen shook her head while Thor chuckled. “Very well! Sif is proficient with a bow and arrow.”

Mara looked at Gwen and said. “That settles it. You, have to beat her.”

“But, I don’t---

“She called me a whore.”

Gwen’s brown eyes darkened and she snapped. “Ohh, she shall pay for that!!” and Mara had no doubt that Sif would. Gwen’s gold medals from the Olympics were a testament to that. Sif would be completely and utterly humiliated by a Midgardian in front of all her peers.

Chapter Text

“I say it’s unfair to her.” Sif said.

“Look,” Fandral said. “if she wants to challenge you Sif, then she’s the fool for challenging her.”

“Actually,” Gwen stated. “it sounds like you’re scared of being beaten by a Midgardian mortal.” Sif turned towards Gwen, her dark eyes flashing. “Now, either accept the challenge or admit defeat!”

Sif glowered at her before stating. “Grab your bow Midgardian. Let’s see what you’re made of.”

Gwen smirked at her. “Let’s.”

“Good luck.” Mara said. 

“Thank you.” Gwen said with a broad smile on her face. “It should be a very worthwhile challenge.”

As Gwen and Sif went to select their bows, everyone went to go find their seats. Fandral chuckled. “I hope your friend knows what she’s doing.”

“She does.” Mara said. “She’s been declared a world champion three years in a row. She gave it up because it was too stressful, but I’m sure Sif will do her best.”

“Sif will,” Thor laughed as he stated. “Sif is one of the best archers in all of Asgard.”

She shakes her head. “Until today.” She folded her hands and leaned forward as she said. “This…will be epic.”

Everyone watched as Sif selected a full quiver and a bow. Gwen, however, warmed up first and she then checked several bows before selecting one. Then, she picked up a quiver and joined Sif on the training grounds. Then, the match began. The warriors and Thor began making bets as to who would win. Hogun was unsure as to whom to bet on as he had a complete memory wipe. Frigga had given him an antidote, which would take effect in two days. Thor was annoyed, but all those years of going to clubs with Gwen had trained her for keeping an eye on her drink, especially around groups of men that she didn’t know.

The first match, was very intense. Gwen scored perfectly as did Sif. That lead to a second, and then third. By the fourth, the targets were moved back and that’s when Sif began shooting slightly off-center. Gwen, however, kept hitting the targets dead center. Then it was time for moving targets and she laughed as everyone watched as Gwen kept hitting the targets. It was hysterical watching them grow more and more concerned as Gwen continued giving Sif a run for her money!

Thor turned to her. “I have a feeling that you were keeping Gwen’s actual talents a secret from us.”

She smirked. “You thought because we’re mortals that we’re not as powerful. There are exceptions and Gwen is one of them. She can shoot a bow and arrow with her feet.”

Thor’s eyes widened. “You jest!”

“Surely not!” Fandral said. “That’s impossible!”

“I assure you, it isn’t. She grew up in the circus until her parents decided they wanted a better life. Gwen used to be a contortionist and tumbler, so, she’s freakishly flexible.” At Thor’s confusion Mara exhaled and turned back to where Gwen was examining an arrow. “Gwen!”

Gwen glowered at her. “What?! I was getting ready to shoot!”

“The men don’t believe me that you’re a contortionist. You should show them your special trick shots.”

Gwen shook her head. “I haven’t done that in months!”

“You’re still the best. Come on!”

“Besides,” Thor said. “the two of you have been shooting at a very even pace. This might set the two of you apart.”

“Show us!” Fandral said with an absolutely lovesick grin on his face.

Gwen exhaled and then nodded. “Alright.”

She pulled off her boots and then did a handstand. The warriors were unimpressed, until Gwen brought her feet down over her head. All the men inhaled but it was only Fandral who said it aloud. “By the gods, the things you could do to a woman like that.”

“Shut up, Fandral.” Thor said, not looking away from Gwen who smiled at them.

Gwen grabbed the bow and arrow, bringing them up and over her head. By now, the whole training arena had gone silent and everyone was watching the spectacle in silence. Gwen closed her eyes, inhaling and then exhaling deeply as she found her focus. She drew back the arrow with her big toes and then opened her eyes to look at the target. Gwen could have chosen the stationary target, but she chose the moving one.

TWANG!!

The arrow was released and found its mark dead center of the target! Mara jumped up and cheered loudly. Fandral let out a loud cheer and he hurried towards Gwen as she set the bow and arrow down before standing upright again. Gwen exhaled deeply, brushing her red hair back from her face until she was swept off her feet by Fandral causing her to shriek in surprise. Thor applauded and the rest of the spectators in the arena applauded. Sif had a sour expression originally, but that sourness had faded the moment that Gwen pulled off the shot. Gwen had won Sif’s respect, which Mara had a feeling was a difficult thing to do.

“Well done.” Thor said as he approached Gwen. “A most impressive feat. Truly, I daresay we’ve never seen the likes of that here on Asgard.”

“Does this mean she wins?” Volstagg asks. “I mean, it was beyond impressive!”

Thor nodded. “Yes, I do declare Gwen the winner. No hard feelings Sif.”

Sif shook her head. “None taken. She deserved to win.”

“Thank you.” Gwen smiled at her as she extended her hand. “You were a worthy opponent.”

“The same.” Sif said as she accepted Gwen’s hand.

Gwen nodded and then turned to Mara. “Well,” she hugged her. “did you enjoy that?”

“Indeed I did!” she hugged Gwen and said. “I daresay Loki will find the news entertaining.”

“You need not relay everything to Loki.” Sif stated, her tone now had a slight edge to it. “All that happens here is none of his concern.”

“When he asks me how my day was,” Mara states. “I will tell him the truth. I will not lie to him as he’s already had his fill of lies.”

“He’s the god of lies,” Sif stated. “he’s incapable of telling the truth.”

“To you, but he tells me the truth. I know all of his secret thoughts that he’d never share with anyone of you, even Thor.” She had no desire to hear this old argument again and again. She exhaled and said. “Please, excuse me.”

“Now,” Thor held out his hands and stepped in front of her. “there’s no need to rush off.”

“I know when I’ve worn out my welcome.” She exhaled. “Besides, I am missing your brother’s company and we will want to discuss the results of today.”

“Anyone up for a game of Knattleikr?” Sif asked as she moved onto the field.

“I don’t know,” Volstagg said. “it’s too hot.”

Thor exhaled deeply as he said. “My brother cannot become your entire world.”

“He is my world,” she said softly. “and I am his. It’s too late for us to be anything less than that.”

Thor just stared at her, something like pity in his blue eyes. Gwen exhaled as she said. “Wait till I put my boots back on and my bow away. I’ll walk with you.”

“You don’t have to Gwen, you’re having fun out here and I don’t mean to rain on your parade.”

“You’re not.”

“Who’s raining on what parade?” Hogun asked. “I don’t see a parade.”

“It’s a Midgard expression.” Mara explained. “It means you don’t want to spoil someone’s plans.”

“You say that,” Thor says. “but every time there’s an event, like a banquet or an occasion like this, you always bring up Loki and the whole day grows dark.”

She exhaled as she said. “I don’t intend to do that, but I love and miss your brother. I want to be with him and I feel terrible and guilty every moment that I’m not with him. I intend to live my life with him for however long as I can.”

Thor lowered his voice. “You are I are---

“Nothing.” She said sharply. “Nothing and we will always be nothing, Thor.”

He exhaled. “I know that you love my brother, but if we are forced---

“I will not be forced.” She said. “I know I seem quiet and genteel. That may be true, but I am not going to enter in a marriage with you. I would rather die.”

“BALL!!” Fandral shouted. “BALL!!”

Mara turned slightly. WHAM! Something hard hit her upside the head and she blacked out.

“No!” Thor shouted and Gwen whirled around to see Mara lying on the ground, blood pouring out of her head! 

Gwen was in shock for a minute, then Thor went to pick Mara up and she screamed at him. “DON’T!!” He turned as she ran to him. “You can’t move her!”

“She’s---

“You could kill her!!” She shouted as hot tears dripped down her face. “Someone get a healer!!”

“I’m going!” Fandral was already out of the arena.

She gasped as she knelt beside Mara. “Oh, my God. Oh my God. Oh, my God!” She looked at him and shouted. “What happened!?”

Thor looked in shock as he said. “She was hit with a ball.”

“Oh, God.”

“I-I’m sure she’ll be fine.” Thor assured her. “We have the best healers and she’ll recover.”

Gwen placed her fingers on Mara’s neck and she inhaled. “Her pulse is slowing. We need someone fast---

“Thor?” they looked up to see Frigga approaching them. “What is,” her face went pale and she ran to them. “what happened??”

“She got hit in the head with a ball, mother.” Thor said. “They were playing Knattleikr and---

“I’ve always hated that game.” His mother said as she knelt and checked Mara’s eyes. However, instead of clear eyes, her eyes were filling with blood. “She’s bleeding in her head. Thor, you need to pick her up so we can take her to the healers.”

“She said not to move her---

“She’d be right, but if we don’t, she may die.” Gwen started crying at those words as Thor knelt and carefully picked up Mara. She moved and braced her head. Frigga held onto her and Thor. With the blink of an eye, they were standing in the medical center. Everyone stared at her and Frigga said. “There was an accident. She’s been badly injured, we need help.”

Eir, the head healer sprang into action. “Right here!” she ordered and Thor carefully moved towards the open table. Gwen carefully laid her head down and Eir ordered. “Step back. Let us work. My queen, I may need your help.”

“Of course.”

As a screen projected Mara’s body up above her, Gwen turned to Thor and said. “You need to go get Loki.” 

He shakes his head. “I can’t---

“You must! If she dies right here, he will never forgive you! You will never forgive yourself! He needs to be here with her and you know it!” He hesitates and she adds. “I will never forgive you for this if you do not go and get him! She’s given up on a lot of things and he’s given her a reason to live again. So, go and get him out of his cell, now!!” 

they stare at each other a long time and then Fandral bursts into the room. “Ah!” He wheezes. “Y-you’re here---

“We’re going Fandral.” Thor said without breaking eye contact with her.

“Where to?” Fandral asked.

“The dungeons.” Thor turned and left the room quickly.

Gwen exhaled as she turned back and watched the team frantically work over Mara’s limp body. Blood was spilling out onto the table faster than they could put into her and Gwen had a horrible feeling that when Loki got here that Mara would be gone. She looked down at her hands, covered in Mara’s blood and sobbed. She’d known her for nearly twenty years and she was the only sister that she’d known. She didn’t know how she’d ever function in this world without her.

Chapter Text

Something was wrong. He didn’t know what it was, but he was filled with the strongest sense of torment and pain. Something had happened and it was bad. He paced frantically, trying to tell himself that it was all in his head. It was his paranoia again, he was going mad from being locked up. But he couldn’t make his heart calm down. His suspicions were confirmed when Thor, Fandral, Volstagg and a dozen guards approached his cell. He could tell from the look on Thor’s face that something had happened.

“What is this?” he asked as the door to his cell opened and everyone swarmed in. “What the hell is going on!?”

“Loki,” Thor said. “calm down---

“Where is she?” He demanded, his words caused everyone to pause. He knew it. Something had happened to her. He held Thor’s gaze as he asked. “Where’s Mara?”

Thor exhaled reluctantly as he said is a low, attempt to be calming voice. “She’s been injured.”

After that, Loki went deaf. His anger grew inside him until it was too large for his body to contain. WHOOSH!! The energy inside him all but exploded sending all the guards, Fandral, Volstagg and Thor outside the cell! His cell started blaring red, testifying that he’d shorted out the power in not just his cell, but the next four cells! That got Thor and the others on alert. He stepped out of his cell, ignoring the chaos around him. He didn’t care what the hell was going on.

Thor shook his head as he drew his hand back to throw Mjolnier at Loki. “Loki,” he warned. “don’t!!”

He ignored Thor. He teleported straight to the healing room. Eir would be working on her, so he went to the main room. His fears were confirmed when the room materialized to reveal Eir, his mother and nearly a dozen others working over his Mara. Mara, he felt the blood drain from his face as he saw her just lying on the table, unconscious, blood streaming from a wound in her head. Gwen was standing nearby, her hands covered in blood and tears running down her face. He strode towards her and the healers gasped and paused.

“Don’t just stand there gawping at me!” He snapped as he approached her. “Save her!”

“We are trying,” his mother said in a slightly tense. “she’s loosing too much blood!”

“Why didn’t you say so?” He demanded as he yanked off his leather jacket and opened up his green shirt a little bit. He needed to move and he needed to concentrate for this. He inhaled, exhaled and then placed his hands on either side of her head. The machines that were beeping frantically finally began to slow a little before finding a steady pace.

Gwen hiccuped and asked. “W-what’s happening?”

“I’m suppressing her blood flow,” he said tightly. “now they need to do their job and save her!” He looked to Gwen and demanded. “What happened to her?” Gwen hesitated, but he shouted. “I’m saving her life! At least do me the courtesy of telling me the truth as to why she was hurt!!”

“Loki,” his mother said. “it was an accident.”

“Then telling me the truth shouldn’t be a big deal.”

“I don’t know, what happened.” Gwen said. “I was returning my bow and I had my back turned. She got hit in the head with a ball. They were playing something.”

He turned to his mother and asked. “What game?”

She exhaled reluctantly. “Knattleikr.”

The blood froze in his veins. That was similar to the Midgardian game of field hockey. If she’d gotten hit by one of those balls, her head was probably fractured. He looked up at Mara’s head and sure enough, her head was fractured. So severely that she had multiple brain bleeds which everyone was trying frantically to repair. 

“What is he doing here?” Odin demanded as he swept in the room. “Why is he out of prison?”

“Allfather,” Frigga said. “this an emergency. We have need of him here.”

“Who let him out?” Odin demanded.

“Does that truly matter at this point?” Gwen said as she wiped her eyes. “Thor released him so he could come here to her.”

“Then where is Thor?” Odin demanded

“Probably running here because I teleported.” Loki said snarkily. “It’s not my fault Thor is slow.”

“You watch your tongue!” Odin ordered, causing Loki to roll his eyes. “When Thor arrives, you’ll be taken back to your cell---

“Oh, the hell I will be!” he roared, being careful to maintain his focus on Mara’s head. They’d shaved off all her hair so they could get to the to problems, but they weren’t having much success until he’d gotten here.

“He’s been suppressing the bleeding.” Eir said quickly. “I need him here, his magic is proving useful.”

“She will survive---

“I cannot swear to that.” Her words caused them all to still. “It is a bad blow, she’s lost so much blood, her skull is cracked to the point that her brain is exposed and she is still mortal. The only reason she’s still alive is because the warding that has been placed on her has been weakening since her time on Asgard. Some of her elf traits are protecting her a little, but I cannot stop the blood flow on it’s own. Once we’ve gotten it under control and I’ve made all the necessary repairs, I cannot promise that she will ever wake up!”

Odin was silent for a long time before speaking. “This, is princess Runa of Nidavellir. If you lose her, we lose a very powerful asset---

“Shut up!” Gwen suddenly shouted, causing all to look at her. “Just shut up! She is a living and breathing person! She’s not an asset! She’s not a commodity or a pawn for you to move about on a chessboard! Right now, she is possibly dying and you want to throw the one person who is keeping her alive, back in jail!!!” Thor and Fandral entered in time to hear Gwen shout at Odin. “What is wrong with you!?”

“Who the hell are you?” Odin demanded. “I’ve never seen you before!”

Gwen inhaled. “I’ve been here for a week.”

Odin's eyes flashed with anger. “At who’s invitation?”

“Mine, father.” Thor said as he stepped towards the table. “Gwen is a friend of Mara’s and---

“Gwen?” Odin asked. “What kind of a name is that?”

“It’s short for Gwendolyn.” Gwen stated. “But right now, my dearest friend is critically injured. Nothing else matters.”

“We cannot allow prisoners to---

“Loki and Mara are in love with each other!” Gwen stated. “What makes you think that he’s going to even THINK about leaving when he doesn’t know if she’s alive and safe?”

“She is right, allfather.” Frigga said. “If Thor and the warriors were to stand guard, I’m sure there’d be no problems.”

Odin glowered at her. “I said, they weren’t to be allowed to form any attachments.”

Frigga exhaled. “The attachments have been formed. There is little we can do about it. But, we will need to try and save her life.” Frigga cleared her throat. “I'd stop the messengers from going to Heimdall. Today, is indeed a very bad day for Wodhake and Bafiela to find out that their only daughter is alive, but deathly injured while in our care.”

Odin exhaled as he said. “You’re right, but when I return, we will discuss Loki’s sentence! I will NOT permit him to be out of his cell!”

And with that, Odin stormed out of the healer’s room. Loki ignored everyone as he said. “It’s alright, my love. I won’t leave you.” Loki kissed her forehead as he whispered for her ears only. “My love, don’t leave me.” He looked up at Thor and asked. “What happened?”

Thor hesitated before stating. “She was hit by a training ball.”

“Who threw it at her?”

“It was an accident.” Thor stated.

Loki knew the answer in a heartbeat. “It was Sif, wasn’t it?” Thor blinked. “That gyrbba! I swear to God----

“Calm down.” Frigga said. “This won’t help her.”

“I want Thor out of here. Now!”

Gwen spoke up. “It wasn’t Thor’s---

“I asked him to watch her!” Loki shouted. “To protect her and now she’s near death! I trusted him! You,” he spat venomously at Thor as tears burned his eyes. “you’re supposed to protect all of Asgard, but you cannot even protect one weak and mortal woman!” The words wouldn’t stop flowing out of him. “And father wants to give her to you, but you cannot even protect her! I swear,” he says, the blood in his veins turning to lava. “if she dies. I will kill you Thor!” Thor stared at him as did Frigga. He’d threatened to kill Thor many times, but this time, it was different. He meant it. “I don’t care how long it takes…but I will avenge her.”

“Enough.” Gwen said as she sniffled and placed her hand on Thor’s shoulder. “Come. We’ll all of us wait outside while they heal her.”

Thor shook his head. “Father said---

“He won’t leave her. You know this. Please,” Gwen said. “Everyone needs some space. Even you.”

“She’s right.” Fandral said as he encouraged Thor to go. “We’ll be right outside the door. All will be well.”

He hoped so, but right now, he didn’t want any of them near her. His mother, he could tolerate her out of everyone else. Frigga nodded at Thor and only then did he leave. She turned back to him where he was focusing on controlling her blood. “I didn’t know you could do this.”

“There’s a lot I can do” he bit out. “that none of you can.”

She nodded before saying. “Impressive Loki. Be careful not to drain yourself.”

“Drain me dry,” he said. “just make sure that she lives.” His mother nodded and Loki lost himself in Mara’s presence. He could lose her. He could lose her in this very moment while he struggled to help her. No. He couldn’t and wouldn’t think about it. Life without her…it was a dark and bleak future that he couldn’t imagine living. She was…his everything and he would never know love again in his life if he lost her.

Gwen inhaled deeply as she, Thor and Fandral left the room. The moment the door shut, she started crying behind her hand. This…it was a nightmare. How? How had this happened? A hand on her shoulder caused her to whirl around. It was Thor, not Fandral. He looked as if he were in utter hell right now. Guilt, it was eating him alive. She shook her head before stepping into him and wrapping an arm around his waist. Thor exhaled and placed a hand on her back as she cried. She suspected that if he were the kind of man who’d cry, he would.

After ten minutes, she pulled away from him and wiped her eyes. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright.” He said quietly. “She’s your friend.”

“No.” She shook her head. “She’s my sister.”

“She’s not blood.” Thor reminded her.

“Neither is Loki, but, isn’t he your brother?”

Thor was silent before stating. “He doesn’t acknowledge it.”

“I know.” Gwen placed a hand on Thor’s arm before stating. “He’s not mad at you, you know. He’s just scared.”

Thor glanced down at her as he said. “Loki’s not scared of anything.”

“Everyone’s not scared of anything until they’re about to lose the most important thing in their life.” She sniffled as she wiped her eyes. “He’s scared that she’s going to die.”

“Our healers won’t allow that.”

“He has no assurances of that. She, like me, still is mortal.” She reminds him before surmising. “He doesn’t seem to trust people much.”

Thor chuckles. “No, he doesn’t.”

“So, he’s having to trust a group of people who don’t like him, to make sure that she lives. Must be absolutely terrifying to live like that.”

Thor nods before looking down at her. “Are you a writer as well, like your friend?”

She shook her head. “No, I’ve done a great many thing, but writing isn’t a talent that I possess. Archery, painting---
“You paint?”

she nods. “Yes. Do you?”

“No.” He shakes his head. “I’m not much into artistry and stuff like that. That’s more Loki’s thing.”

“Understandably so, you two are as different as day and night. But then, so is art.” She cleared her throat before stating. “I’ve started a few sketches of Asgard already. It’s a very beautiful place.”

“I’m glad you think so.” After a long silence, he asks her quietly. “Do you blame me?”

she didn’t. Thor didn’t do this to Mara. After a long silence, she says. “If Mara dies…I will kill Sif and you know that I will be fully capable of doing that.”

“It was an accident.” He said.

She held Thor’s gaze as she said. “You seem like an intelligent man. I would hope you are since you are to be king. But do not disillusion yourself into believing that was an accident. It was malicious and her absence here proves it.” She gestures to where the other warriors are against the wall in conference with each other. “Volstagg, Hogun and Fandral are here, but not Sif. A guilty person stays away when they’ve done harm. An innocent person…they wait for word.”

Thor was silent for a long time before asking. “Why? Why would she do this?”

She shook her head and lied. “I don’t know.” 

But she did. Mara was engaged to Thor. Sif loved Thor. Mara spurned and rejected Thor to the point that all of his friends knew that she preferred his younger brother. Hate and jealousy, they were very strong and toxic emotions. Mara and Thor were arguing at that moment when the ball had been thrown. It would have been a perfect accident. Mara would have died due to an accident. Thor would be free from marrying the unwanted mortal. Probably not free to love Sif, but Thor would be free and no longer forced. That, was motive enough, but it wasn’t her place to reveal this obvious information to Thor.

Chapter Text

He was exhausted. He was so exhausted that he barely had any energy to keep his hand atop of Mara’s. It had been a long and difficult afternoon for him. Odin had indeed come back after stopping the messengers from leaving, but he’d lost his argument when he saw that Eir was still working on Mara’s fragile head. Loki, was so exhausted that two of the male healers was helping keep him upright as he poured his energy into Mara’s pale body.

This, had been a nightmare. Mara’s head had many broken or burst blood vessels, which had taken forever to repair. She needed blood and their scanners had revealed that the damage to her head had been severe. Her cracked skull had actually been the easiest repair of all. Her left eye had been dislodged from the blow, but that had been an easy fix. The scary part had been ‘reshaping’ her head after getting hit in the head. Her head had caved in a little because of the blow and Loki marveled t how she was still alive. She really should be dead because of the severity of the injuries. But she wasn’t, she was alive and hanging on because of what little of her elf powers were coming through.

The warding spell still hadn’t been broken completely, mostly because of Mara’s reluctance to accept that part of herself. Odin had been talking about bringing in Eirik, one of the more powerful sorcerers. However, Eirik always wanted something in exchange for his deeds. His last request had been Eir and her company. Odin and Frigga had instantly turned him down and Eirik had left. As a result, Thor had nearly died as the result of a curse that he’d blundered into. The fault had been entirely Thor’s. He’d gone exploring, seduced the daughter of a witch and she’d cursed Thor with a mysterious illness. Thor had killed the witch, hoping the curse would die with her, but that had made him worse. In the end, Eir had gone to Eirik who’d lifted the curse. Eir never talked about what happened to her, but he had a feeling that those two had been caught between love and duty once. They’d both chosen duty, but for that one night, Eirik chose to let his heart rule them both. Eir had been generously rewarded and compensated for her troubles, but she continued to live a simplistic life. 

Gwen had come in to visit and she’d brought food. He’d rejected it, only to collapse from sheer exhaustion. He’d come to in a bed next to Mara’s and he was so exhausted that he could barely see her face. Frigga had scolded him for using up his energy in such a way, but he didn’t care. He needed Mara to live and he didn’t care if he died in the attempt. Frigga made him drink some water and consume a bowl of broth. He was now too weak to be moved down to the cells, so he had to stay with Mara. Odin had naturally objected, but Frigga and Eir had stated that it was too dangerous to move Loki right now. Odin had said to have him cuffed while he was up here and he was glad for that. At least he got to stay with Mara.

“Seemed like ages ago,” Frigga said softly as she checked on Mara. “when we watched over the allfather together.” He didn’t answer that question. “Now, we watch over another.” He simply nodded. He didn’t wish to hear her words right now. She sighed before saying quietly. “You love her. Don’t you?”

why did everyone insist on asking him such stupid questions? Was it not obvious that he loved Mara? “Does one love the air they need to breathe?” 

Frigga nodded as she said. “The allfather and Thor…they may doubt the depth of your emotions but I don’t.” He looked up at her, reading those blue eyes of hers that were still warm and full of loving affection for him. “She’s a beautiful woman and I can see that she loves you as well.”

“You observed us on Midgard.” He reminded her. “You know.”

“Yes, but” she smiles faintly. “both of you…you were so scared of being hurt at first that I didn’t think the two of you would fall in love. But, that one night…I didn’t know what happened between the two of you until you said. You protected her. Proved to her that you were worthy of her love and she gave you everything inside her that she’d been holding back all those years.”

“And yet,” he reminded her. “if she doesn’t die she’ll be given to Thor.”

“No, she won’t.” Frigga said softly, causing him to frown. “The allfather and I have been discussing this daily. He thinks that a woman’s heart can be changed or swayed but…I know better.” 

He looked down at Mara’s body. Even with the loss of her hair, her beauty was still undiminished to him. “The heart is uncontrollable, you can’t legislate who you fall in love with, it just happens. You fall in love with someone, you can’t explain why you do it, you just do.” He’s silent for a long moment before confessing quietly. “I do… love her.”

“I’m sorry Loki.”

“I’ll not give her up without a fight.”

“I’m glad to hear that,” she said with a sad smile on her face. “but it won’t be easy.” Frigga moved towards him and placed her hand on his shoulder. If he had the energy to be angry, resentful and bitter, he’d have shoved her hand off him. But tonight, he was exhausted and he was in need of comfort. He sighed as he rested his head on her chest as he used to do when he was a child. She ran a hand through his hair and one down his back. “She will recover from this Loki. She’s a resilient woman.”

He exhaled as he said in a hoarse voice. “I know. I know.” It was just waiting for her to wake up that was killing him.

“I love you,” those were the first words Mara heard from the darkness as she struggled to return to consciousness. “with a depth and passion that I have felt for no one else in this life. And if it astonishes you, it astonishes me as well.” Ok, now she didn’t want to wake up. She just wanted to stay here and listen to Loki’s voice. 

“Not, I hasten to say, because you are not worthy of loving. Far from it, it’s just that, first of all, I swore I would not get involved with another woman. Secondly, I have never had such a feeling before and it’s almost frightening.” Loki gripped her hand gently with his, softly running his hand over her knuckles. “Thirdly, I would have never thought it possible that another human being could occupy my waking and sleeping thoughts to the exclusion of almost everything else. Fourthly, I never thought that even if one was in love, one could get so completely besotted with another person so that a minute away from them felt like a thousand years.” 

Loki paused for a moment, she could feel his anxiety and that was the moment she decided to open her eyes. It was a struggle, her lids felt heavy and her eyes ached, but he was here and she wanted to be with him. “Fifthly, I never hoped, aspired, dreamed that one could find everything one wanted in one person. I was not such an idiot to believe this was possible. Yet in you, I found everything I want. You are beautiful, gay, giving, gentle, idiotically and deliciously feminine, sexy, wonderfully intelligent and wonderfully silly as well. I want nothing else in this life than to be with you. To listen and watch you, your beautiful voice your beauty. To argue with you, to laugh with you, to show you things and share things with you, to explore your magnificent mind, to explore your wonderful body.” God, this man was not helping her awaken from whatever sleep she’d been in. “To help you, protect you, serve you and bat you on the head when I think you are wrong.”

That made her eyes fly open and her eyes went towards his voice. He wasn’t looking at her, but Frigga was. Her eyes widened, but Mara subtly shook her head. Frigga let out an exhale and tilted her head to the side. She was familiar with this letter by George Durrell and she knew exactly where she wanted to interrupt him. “Not to put too fine a point on it, I consider that I am the only man outside mythology to have found the crock of gold at the rainbow’s end."

 “I love…you.” she whispered out as she closed her eyes again.

The book dropped to the floor. “Mara?” Loki sounded so concerned. “My love, can you hear me?”

“Yes.” She reached out blindly for his hand and he took it. 

he kissed her hand. “I’m here. I never left you.”

 “I felt you.” she smiled as she turned into his hand. “I knew, you were here.”

“That’s good.” Frigga said from her other side. “Thor was right to bring him here.”

“How do you feel?” he asked as he caressed her face.

“Thirsty.”

“Here.” Loki held a glass to her lips and she greedily sipped the water with a moan. He’d pull it away from her lips for a few moments, then return it to her mouth so she wouldn’t make herself sick. She was able to finish the glass, which helped rehydrate her body. “More?”

“No.” She opened her eyes and moaned at how bright it was in the room. 

“Take your time.” He said gently. “You’ve been unconscious for a week.”

“What happened to me?” she asked. “I don’t…remember much.”

“A training accident last week.” Mara groaned as she tried to turn onto her side, but she lacked the energy to do so with severe nausea welling up inside her. she also had the worst migraine of her life assaulting her right now. “You were hit in the head with a ball.” 

“Are you ok?” she asked him as she licked her dry lips.

Loki let out an exhale of disbelief. “Darling, you were the one at death’s door.”

“I know you, you worry and fret so much.” She shifted, realizing her head is atop his arm. “Your arm, you must be---

“Let me put it this way.” He said gently to her “If you came to lay your sleeping head against my arm, or sleeve. And if my arm went dead, or if I had to take my leave at midnight. I should rather cleave it from the joint or seam than make a scene or bring you round. There, how does that sound?”

she smiles faintly before whispering. “Simon Armitage.”

He rubs he forehead. “Good, your memory is still intact.”

She laughs lightly. “I think, we established that my memory is hard to break, especially when it comes to you.”

“Indeed my love.” He exhaled. “How are you feeling, apart from your head?”

“Weak.” She admitted. “My head and eyes hurt so much and my stomach is churning.”

“I’ll get Eir.” Frigga said. “Allow you two to have some time together.”

“Thank you, mother.” Mara smiled at hearing Loki call Frigga ‘Mother’ again. He wasn’t truly angry with his family, he was just hurt and upset. He needed time to heal, to cool down before reaching out and trying again. She’d always known that Frigga would be the first one that he’d reconcile with.

“You’re calling her mother again.” She said softly.

“Yes,” he sounded a little annoyed. “we reconciled while waiting for you to awaken.”

“I’m glad.” She whispered. “I like her.”

“She likes you.” He exhaled as he asked. “How much do you remember?”

she exhaled as she thought back. “I remember…Gwen beating Sif at archery, but, nothing after that.”

“Gwen beat Sif?” he chuckled. “I wish I'd been there to see it.”

She smiled at him. “You could always read my mind.”

“Not today. You’re too weak and your head aches.” After a moment he asked. “Mara, can you open your eyes and look at me?”

“It’s…too bright in here, Loki.”

“My mistake.” She felt this little wave of energy from him and heard this swooshing sound, like curtains were being drawn. “You may open your eyes now, my love.” She peeked out and sure enough, the room was darkened. She opened her eyes and turned her head just slightly to find herself looking into Loki’s handsome face. He looked exhausted, his eyes were red rimmed with dried tears, but, he was smiling at her. “You’re going to be alright now.”

“Loki,” she reached up with a weak hand and touched his face. He exhaled and closed his eyes as he covered her hand with his. She touched his face for a few moments before requesting. “kiss me, please.”

He exhaled as he said. “I do not want to hurt you.”

“Then you better kiss me.”

He smiled at her before leaning forward to kiss her gently. She moaned. His lips were warm and his kiss was like a healing balm that spread through her. She whimpered and placed her limp hands on his shoulders. God, she’d missed him so much. She missed his touch and she ached for him. But she was too weak to enjoy his attentions. Her hands slipped from his shoulders and she sank back into her pillow.

“I’m sorry.” She whispered as she closed her eyes.

“It’s alright. You’re not well enough yet.” He said as someone entered the room. “Eir is here and will examine you.”

She let out a murmur of understanding. Eir checked the screen and told her that her blood vessels and veins had burst on impact, but were repaired. Her eye had healed nicely and she confirmed that there wasn’t any blurry vision. Her skull, was almost repaired, there was a minor crack and the swelling had gone down. She’d been unconscious for that whole time. Their medicines were different than earth. Veins could be added as if one were removing a stitch. Something was put on her skull to help her bones grow together at a rapid pace. Then Frigga told her how Loki had slowed down her blood flow and stopped her from bleeding out, nearly costing him his own life from the amount of energy he’d poured into her. Loki had said his mother was exaggerating, but she knew better. This man would kill himself if it meant that she’d live.

Then the doors to the room opened and from the way the room shifted, she knew that Odin had arrived. “She has awakened.” Frigga said calmly.

“so I can see.” Odin said plainly. 

“Thank God.” Gwen hurried towards her. “I was so worried!”

“Have the healers examined her?” Odin inquired.

“Not completely.” Frigga said patiently. “I’ve been allowing her and Loki a few minutes together. She’s still very weak.” 

Mara nodded in agreement, the motion jarred her head, causing her to moan and turn into him. Loki instantly noticed her discomfort. “Mara?”

“Well,” Odin said dryly. “now that she’s conscious, Loki can be returned to his cell.”

“Not yet.” Gwen stated.

“And why not, Midgardian?” Odin asked sharply. 

“I’m sure,” Thor said. “she meant no disrespect father.”

“Sick.” Mara opened her eyes, looking around for something to vomit in. Liquid spewed from her mouth and Loki held onto her as she began vomiting. Her vomit sprayed his legs and arms, but he didn’t let go. He held onto her, carefully supporting her head. Gwen held her hair back from her face as Eir and another healer hurried towards her.

“Thor, a cloth.” Loki ordered as Mara coughed, finishing up her vomiting. Loki snatched it from him, carefully wiping her mouth. “I’ve got you.”

“I don’t…feel good.” She whispered as he laid her back on the bed. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to---

“Mara, it’s alright. I promise you.” He lowered his voice slightly. “can you open your eyes at all?” She tried and moaned as it felt as if she were getting stabbed in the eyes. “No, it’s ok. Don’t talk.” 

“What’s wrong with her?” Frigga asked Eir. “You said her head swelling was down

“It is.” Eir pulled up the scan. “She appears be suffering another ailment.”

Odin groaned in annoyance. “These fragile mortals.”

“She gets these…turns on Midgard.” Loki explained. “I think she’s having one now.” She squeezed his hand. “She says she is. It’s possibly worse because of getting hit in the head.” She squeezed his hand again.

“Migraines.” Gwen supplied helpfully. “Mara gets them really bad.”

“Is it your migraine again?” She squeezed his hand and he placed his hand on her head and looked to his mother. “She has a fever.”

Eir frowned. “Our scan isn’t showing one.”

“Then clearly, your equipment is faulty because she’s sweating!”

“She did just throw up. We have healers.” Odin stated. “They’ll take care of her.”

“We can try peppermint oil.” The younger healer said. “It’ll cure her headache and nausea.”

“That makes her sick.” Loki stated. “Her stomach and nose are very sensitive. Her eyes are pulsating, it’s hurting her head.”

“How does she treat it in Midgard?”

“She doesn’t. she suffers until it goes away.” Loki runs a hand through her hair. “She’ll be like this for hours.” Mara whimpered as another pain wracked her head. Loki wrapped his arm around her waist as tight as he could. “I’ve got you.”

“We can’t allow that.” Frigga says gently. “Odin, perhaps Loki might be permitted to stay with her until her pain has passed? He can consult with a healer since he knows her best.”

“No, he must be returned.”

“She was severely injured on our watch.” Frigga stated. “I’m sure we don’t want it known that we failed to offer her every comfort in her recovery.”

“We have the best healers here.” Odin said. “They can take care of her far better than Loki.”

“It’s a matter of them not tormenting her while she is already in misery.” Frigga stated. “They already suggested one treatment that Loki tried, which already made her ill. Her head is severely injured and more vomiting will prolong her recovery. She will have to learn how to walk and regain her strength. That’ll take her weeks already.”

“Mint compress, is helpful.” Eir said.

“No,” Loki shook her head. “no mint. She’s allergic. It makes her break out in a rash and get sick.”

Eir exhaled. “Allfather, I don’t know which herbs cause her discomfort. Loki does, it will be of benefit to me and to her if he were to aid me.”

“Fine!” Odin exhales in dismay. “But he best be back in his cell by tomorrow.”

“Perhaps until she’s in the peak of health?” Frigga suggested.

“No!” I will not allow them to spend more time in each other’s company!” he stated sharply. “The bond between them cannot be allowed to grow until the negotiations have been decided.” Gwen let out a loud snort and the room went still. “You’ve something to say, Midgardian?”

“Yes,” Gwen stated. “I am aware that you do not wish for them to fall in love more, but that is a calculated risk you must allow because I’m certain you do not wish for her to suffer! But keeping them apart is futile because the kind of love that Loki and Mara share, is a rare treasure. I believe, you yourself, know that kind of love, allfather.” The room went even quieter if possible. “To deny them the love that your share with your own wife is beyond reprehensible. And to expect such feelings to stop and no longer exist, is beyond asinine.”

She could practically feel Odin glaring at Gwen. “Your feelings on the matter are immaterial---

“Mara is my sister.” Gwen stated. “And while Thor lacks the spine to speak up on his brother’s behalf, I do not lack it to speak up on her behalf.”

There’s another long silence and Odin says. “Thor, has already been to Midgard and bid farewell to this, Jane of his. He knows where his duty lies and it is time for Loki to do the same as him.”

Mara felt Loki tighten his grip on her. Thor had done what they couldn’t do. He’d given up the woman that he ‘loved’ and now it would be expected that she give up the man she loved. But her love wasn’t shallow like Thor’s. It was as deep as the deepest ocean, pure as the whitest snow, stronger than all these gods combined. She wasn’t Jane and Loki wasn’t Thor. Their love would stand the trials of time and she knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that she would be Loki’s wife.

Gerald Durrell's letter, read by Tom Hiddleston

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PE4msFl_Boo&pp=ygUWdG9tIGhpZGRsZXN0b24gcmVhZGluZw%3D%3D

Let me put it this way by Simon Armitage read by Tom Hiddleston 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=hA1XC0EDYfg&pp=ygUmdG9tIGhpZGRsZXN0b24gcmVhZGluZyBzaW1vbiBBcm1pdGFnZSA%3D

Chapter Text

“We should take her to her chambers.” Loki said to Eir, ignoring Odin's glare. “It’s darker and it’s familiar to her. She won’t rest in a place that’s not her own.”

Eir exhaled as she said. “We’ll have to be careful moving her.”

He nods as he says. “I’ll be careful.” He picked Mara up and she moaned in pure misery. Before anyone could say anything, he teleported Mara to her chambers. He moved her to her bed, using a finger to draw back the covers. He set her down on the bed, noting how she was in a plain Asgardian shift. “I’ll get you something to wear.”

“Thank you.” He moved to her dresser and opened up the second drawer. He pulled out a modest, but short, white nightdress. 

She let out a whimper, causing him to look towards the bed. She was trying to get out of the long shift but failing. “It’s alright.” He assured her. “Lay back, let me help you.”

She laid back as she said. “I feel so useless.”

“You need time, pet.” With a wave of his hand, he’d stripped her naked, causing her to blush even in her misery. He chuckled as he took a moment to look at her perfect form. “One day…I shall give your beautiful body the attention and love it craves. But for now,” with a wave he dressed her in the nightdress. “rest ad grow stronger.”

She let out a whine. “I wish I were strong enough. I miss you.” He sat on the edge of the bed and caressed her face, causing her to sigh. “I’ve missed your touch, your kisses and…

She didn’t finish, but he knew. “My cock inside you?” She flushed a deeper pink as he exhaled. “I’ve missed your warmth, your wetness around me as well. We only had that one night, so, I do wish to do that again. I just need you fully recovered.”

“And I need you out of your cell.” She said softly. “God knows when that will be.”

“Soon, pet.” He exhaled. “But for now, let’s get you comfortable. Let me go get you some water and a cloth.”

“Thank you.”

He went to her bathroom and fetched a basin of cold water. It wasn’t cold enough, so he used his frost giant powers to lower the temperature of the water. When he entered the room, he realized it was warm. He glanced and Mara and instructed her. “Keep your eyes closed for this, my love.”

“Yes, Loki.”

She closed her eyes as he transformed into a frost giant. He stretched out his hands, lowering the temperature in the room by creating ice and snow around the windows, being careful not to damage Mara’s things. The temperature in the room dropped instantly. Once he was satisfied that it was a safe temperature, he sat beside her. “You can look now.”
She opened her eyes and said. “You didn’t want me to see you as a frost giant, did you?”

He exhaled as he said. “Not today. I didn’t want to frighten you.”

“Loki,” she sighed as he got the cloth damp. “I love you. You could never frighten me.”

“We shall see.” He said gently as he placed the cloth on her head, causing her to moan. “Just relax for now. I’m here.” They enjoyed a few minutes of silence before Thor burst into the room with Eir and Gwen. They all stared at him and he stated. “You’re letting the cold air out. Come in or go away.”

“Loki,” Thor said. “you can’t keep vanishing like that.”

“Then tell Odin to yank my powers. Oh wait,” he mocked. “he can’t, because I’m not his blood.” He nodded to Eir who was holding a valise of treatments. “Come on. Let’s see what may help. Cold and darkness helps her.”

“How unusual.” Eir said. “She is an anomaly."

Thor enters and Loki’s eyes go to the chains that Thor is holding “I’ll leave them off Loki, but you best not try anything.”

“She is in agony.” Loki stated as Mara whimpered in pain. “Why do you think that I would abandon her when she’s like this? You didn’t do a good job of watching her! a mere hour in your presence and you let her get severely injured by one of your so called friends!” Mara reached up and caressed his face, asking him to stop. But he was furious. “She could have died Thor!” Mara placed her hand on his mouth, effectively silencing him. He exhaled deeply and kissed her hand. “I’m sorry, I’m just upset you’re injured and in pain. Keeping you safe, it’s not a difficult task and he failed to do that after I trusted him.”

She placed her hand firmly on his heart, tapping him there gently. “I was not intentionally negligent brother.” Thor said patiently. “It was an accident.”

“Was it?” he asked quietly. “You know Sif hates me. She called Mara my whore. You know she hates me, why wouldn’t she hate Mara?”

“Stop,” she whispered. “please.”

Loki let out a huff. “I’m sorry.”

“You must forgive my brother,” Thor said lowly. “he is often possessive and jealous of things. You are no exception.”

“I am not---

“Because he loves me.” she said softly as she gently stroked his face. “You’re never jealous about something you don’t care about. And Thor,” she added. “he’s not mad at you.”

He glowered at Mara “I am---

“He’s mad at himself,” things were silent for a moment. “because he wasn’t there.”

Loki is silent for a moment before stating. “What did I say about seeing through me?”

“My eyes are closed.” She reminded him. after a moment, she says. “You should apologize to your brother. This wasn’t his fault.”

“I won’t.” He stated as he held her hand.

“You’re so stubborn.”

“Very.”

He then consulted with Eir. Half of the potions were thrown out for containing herbs that he knew upset Mara’s stomach. That left three from strictly Asgard and as he expected, they didn’t work on Mara. She broke out with hives on the first one and Gwen had grabbed Mara’s medication from her bath for that. The second and third one made her gag and vomit.

Eir exhaled in near defeat. “I thought you were exaggerating when you said she was sensitive to medicines and herbs.”

“You’ve no idea.” He exhaled. “I tried several remedies on earth, citrus, every headache herb and medicine available.”

Eir place placed a hand on her head. “She is burning up. I will go find something to counter it.”

“I don’t wish to torment her with anymore herbs.” He said as he looked towards the bathroom. "Perhaps a cool bath may help?” 

“No.” Mara whimpered. “It hurts.”

“I know my love, but we have to break the fever.” He lifts her up and he changes their clothes into bathing suits. She whined as he entered the bath and Eir turned on the cold water “We have to cool you down.”

“My head hurts.”

“I know. I’ve got you.” he lifted her up against his bare chest. He held her tightly as he stepped into the bath, feeling the temperature of the water. He directed Eir when to add a little warmth so she wouldn’t freeze. Once the tub was halfway full, did he very carefully kneel in the water in with her. Mara gasped sharply, tightly clenching his hand as the cold water lapped at her waist. “I've got you, I’ve got you.” he shushed her gently. “Easy.”

“It hurts.”

"I know.” He kissed her forehead. “I’m sorry.” He pulled her down beside him, holding onto her while she gasped in pain against the throbbing in her head. he shushed her gently and began singing to her. I stormsvarte fjell, jeg vandrer alene. She inhaled and tried to relax as he ran his hand up and down her shoulder. He touched where he’d bitten her and she let out a whine, instantly becoming soft and relaxed in his hands. He kept stroking her there, realizing that he was comforting and calming down his mate. Over isbreen tar jeg meg frem. I eplehagen står møyen den vene. Og synger: “når kommer du hjem?” 

“That’s pretty.” She says quietly. He presses a kiss to her forehead. “I didn’t know you could sing.”

He shrugs and wraps her closer to him. “I don’t, as a rule.”

 “I’m glad you made an exception.” She exhales deeply. “What were you singing in English?”

“In stormy black mountains I wander alone. Over glaciers, I make my way . in the apple orchard stands the beautiful maiden. And sings, “when are you coming home?” 

“Hmm.” She murmured as she closed her eyes. He exhaled and held onto her. Eir placed a hand on her forehead and nodded at him. He lay back, drawing Mara down with him until only her head was above the water. “It’s cold.”

“I know, but your fever has to drop.”

“These pains of hers, may be heat related.” Eir said. “I’m going to do some research, but, I think I know what may help her.”

“How long should we stay in here?” he asked.

“As long as you can bear.” Eir said. “I'd like to keep her as relaxed and calm as possible.”

“In that case,” Gwen cleared her throat. “Thor and I will go fetch some food. What do you two want?”

“Nothing for me.” Loki said softly. “Thank you.”

“Mara?” Gwen inquired. “Something to drink?”

“No thank you.”

“Not even a lemonade?”

Mara peaked at Gwen. “Lemonade?”

“I’ll make you both a glass. And I’ll see if I can find a few snacks to tempt you both. Ok?”

“Yes.”

“I’m trusting you---

“Thor,” Gwen said patiently. “that doesn’t need to be said. He’s not going to leave her. Come.”

“Eir,” he said. “stay a moment. I have words that I do not mean them to hear.” She nodded and stood there. Once Gwen and Thor had left, he said. “When you research, see if there’s an adverse reaction to being bitten by a frost giant.”

Mara shook her head. “Loki---

“It’s possible.” He stated. “And I don’t want to be the cause of your---

“I’ve had these pains before you. I doubt that---

“Mara,” he confessed. “when I bit you, the other side of me claimed you.” She went still underneath him. “You’re my mate. I don't know, what effect that bond may have on you.”

Eir was silent as she said. “You’ll have my discretion.”

“Thank you.” He said. “You may confide in my mother if necessary. But no one else.”

“As you wish.” Eir nodded and walked away. She was always a woman of honor and he hoped that she’d respectfully keep the information of his attachment to Mara private. 

Once the door shut, Mara said. “You…claimed me?”

He exhaled as he said. “Partially, you…didn’t claim me back.”

“Oh.” She opened her eyes. “W-what do I need to do?”

“Get well.” He said. “You also, need to have your powers fully.” She pouted. “I know, you’re fighting them, but, for this…I need you fully restored.”

“I shall fight them,” she said quietly. “until the day I’m your wife. Only then, shall I surrender.”

Wife? His brow arched at that word. He hadn’t proposed to her yet, but he should. He held his hand out, summoning the ring to him before confessing. He said nothing as he slid the ring on her finger. She let out a soft gasp as he spoke. “What’s yours is mine, be it your pleasure, pain or body…it is mine.” He smiled. “On your world, this is an engagement ring. Here it is the same, but they’re rarely worn out, so you will be making a statement by wearing it..”

“Why aren’t they worn?” she asked softly as tears trickled down her cheeks.

“They’re seen as too possessive. Joining in marriage is one thing but wearing a ring beforehand,” he shook his head as he says. “it says that we are completely and irrevocably devoted to each other, even before marriage. It's a sign of too much passion.” He holds her gaze. “Will you accept my ring? Will you accept me and all the love I have in my heart for you?”

“Yes, yes I will Loki.” She tilts her face upwards. “Kiss me, my love.”

He obliged her by kissing her as deeply as he could. Her temperature had dropped, but she was still weak. After a few moments, he broke the kiss and she rested her face against his neck. “You do understand that…while I do intend to marry you, this isn’t a formal proposal?” she nods. “When I ask you to be my wife…it will truly be a moment I wish for you to remember.”

“This is a moment I won’t forget either.” 

Nor would he. He kissed her. “Rest my love.”

“No.” She said stubbornly. “If I do…I will wake tomorrow and find you gone. We get so little time as it is.”

“I’ll join you in your dreams.” He assured her. “Rest, I’ll find you and we shall have such joyful excursions.”

And they did. That, was possibly the best sleep that he’d had in years and never had dream sex been so delightful.

Chapter Text

When Mara awoke, her head mercifully wasn’t in excruciating pain, it was a dull ache. But she didn’t care. Right now, she found herself partially draped across Loki’s body. Her legs were between his and her head was resting on his bare chest. She moaned thinking about that passionate ‘sex’ that they’d had together last night. Yes, it had all been a dream, but it had felt so real! The things he’d said, the way that he’d touched her…it was like being with him! Dear God, he’d done so much to her body that if they’d done it in person she’d have been thoroughly impregnated by him this morning! Not that she’d have minded, it’s just, she wanted to be conscious when they were together and not in this dream state.

“Good morning, pet.” Loki murmured as he ran his hand up and down her back. “How are you feeling?”

“Better.” 

He placed his hand atop her forehead and she sighed. ‘No fever, that’s good.” He spoke in a lower voice. “Migraine?”

“Gone.” She whispered back. After a moment, she asked him. “Why are we whispering?”

“Because…Gwen is sleeping,” he nods just over her shoulder. “right on the couch over there.”

“Oh.” She inhaled and studied his handsome face which was so very close to hers. She inhaled as she traced his skin, feeling it under hers. It had been so long since she’d been able to touch him like this. He exhaled and she leaned into him, tracing the muscles as her hand explored his body. Her hand moved from his chest, to his stomach and dipped lower.

He exhaled shakily. “Easy, my dark one.”

“I like that.” She confessed. “I like that, so much better than pet.”

“Easy, my dark one.” She trembled and he caught her hand just before she could reach his hardening cock. “You’re recovering.”

“I just, want to touch you.” She said softly. “Please.”

He exhaled deeply and asked. “Are you well enough, for me to return the favor?”

God, how her heart raced at those words. “Yes. Please. Please, touch me, Loki.”

“I will.” He turned towards her as he slipped his hand under her nightdress. She wasn’t wearing undergarments so he was able to enter her easily. “Don’t move your head, my love.” He said gently as his trousers vanished so she could touch him easily.

“Can you secure my head?” She asks. “Is it possible?”

he studies her a moment and nods. “Yes.” With a wave of his hands, her head was secured. “Is that comfortable?”

“Yes.” As he leaned forward to kiss her, she breathed against his mouth. “I want you to come inside me when we’re close.”

“As you wish.”

He kissed her and she grabbed ahold of his back. God, he was so gentle with her. She stroked him, hesitantly at first before finding her confidence. She forced herself to stay quiet although her heart was beating out of her chest. Her lower regions were burning, throbbing and gushing with liquid. She moaned against his mouth as he stroked, pinched and thrust inside her. He started with one finger but by the time she was close to coming, he had three fingers inside her. She spread her legs and pulled him towards her. They were both breathing raggedly. It was exquisite torture, to be so close and be forced into silence and not revel in the passion that they had for each other. Right before they came together, she guided him inside her. He let out a shuddering moan as he slid fully into her before they came together in harmony. He exhaled and gently lowered himself on top of her.

When he went to withdraw, she stopped him. “Don’t leave me.” She whispered. “Give me, a few moments more of you. I want to hold onto you and remember the way you feel inside me.” 

She ran her hand through his hair. “Alright.” He released her head and then he waved at Gwen and then at the door. “There, we won’t be disturbed.”

“What did you do?”

“She’ll stay asleep until someone opens the door. She’ll be our alarm.”

She smiles at him. “You’re terribly mischievous, but, I like that about you.” She kissed his chin. “Thor told me about how you turned into a snake and scared him.”

He chuckles as he said. “I did not try to stab him. I just tried…snapping at him.”

“I do not care.” She smiled at him. “Nothing you could do, would ever make me love you any less. After all, you told your past and the parts of yourself that you hide from me. I still love you. I always will.”

“And I will always love you, my beautiful girl.” He exhaled as he said. “As you know, I’m immortal, so I’ve lived longer than you.”

“How much older are you than me?”

“In your years, I’m nearly 1,500 years old.”

Her jaw dropped and she stammered. “I-I always had a thing f-for older men, I guess.”

He chuckled as he said. “As a result, I have seen many things that you cannot comprehend. I’ve seen worlds rise and fall. I’ve seen strange and exotic things. I’ve seen war and peace. I’ve experienced lust and all the pleasures that it entails. But, I, have never before known love in its truest form till you.” He caressed her face gently as he stated. “That, is the greatest marvel that I’ll never understand. Your love is unconditional and unjudging. Your love…is something that I cannot live without. You, are beyond beautiful. Freyja herself looks at you with envy.”

“Freyja?”

“Goddess of beauty.” He said softly. “But she is nothing to you.” She smiled at her words. “Thor thinks that I have loved you because you’re a princess, an heir and a silver elf. But you knew that I was in love with you way before then. I have been desperately in love with you for everything that you are. You and I, we both have our scars, our pain, our secrets…but those things have only made me love you more for your determination. You refused to grow hard and cold.” She inhaled. “Others think you are, but I know better. You were protecting yourself, waiting to give yourself to the right man and I am beyond blessed that you chose me. There is so much love inside you. Your love, is the great treasure that I found. Not your title, not your inheritance, not your status, but your love. That is all I’ve wanted and desired. To be loved,” tears filled her eyes at his words. “and you…have routinely continued to give me everything that I’ve ever desired. I shall worship and adore you for all eternity, for you belong to me and me alone.” He leaned forward to kiss her. “I’m a jealous man, my dark one. I share you with no one. You, are mine! Every part of you!”

she moaned as he kissed her deeply as she surrendered to him. His hands cupped her shoulders, being careful not to move her shoulders as he withdrew from her. She started crying, hating how cold and empty she felt without him. “Shh, it’s alright.” He murmured as he kissed her. “I don’t…want to pull out of you fast if we’re disturbed. I’m not leaving you.”

“Don’t.” She begged. “Please, don’t.”

Loki kissed her deeply, once again, securing her head in place with a wave. She should have been concerned about Gwen being mere feet away from them, but she was asleep and wouldn’t wake due to Loki’s spell. She didn’t care, she wanted him so much that she could swear that she was flooding the bed with her want for him. She caressed his face, tracing those cheekbones of his. She could do this. She could just get lost in him and forget that they probably only had mere minutes together. 

The moment that thought crossed her mind, the door opened. Gwen let out a shriek and Thor was apologizing. In the chaos, Loki got off her and pulled her into his side. They both looked at the scene as Gwen threw her boots at Thor’s head while chastising him for walking in without knocking! “If I didn’t say it before,” Loki said with a hint of mischievousness in his voice. “I like her.”

She shook her head. “I know.” He kissed her and she sighed. She tried turning, but couldn’t. “Loki, my head.”

“Hmm?” he then realized, so he apologized. “Oh, I’m sorry.” With a wave, her head was free again. He exhaled as he caressed her face. “Take care of yourself. Eat well, get better and then,” he kissed her chin. “one day, I’ll see you outside my cell again. Alright?”

“Yes.” She sniffled. “I-I don’t want to lose you.”

“You won’t.” He exhaled as he said. “I marked you,” a full shiver ran down her body at his touch. “you’re bound to me until the day you die.”

“Loki.” Thor’s voice caused tears to fill her eyes. “Time to go.”

“It’s alright.” He ignored Thor as he got out of the bed, his trousers back up around his waist. He leaned over her and kissed her deeply, causing her to moan.

“Loki, I gave my word to father.” Thor stated from the doorway, Loki ignored him and continued kissing her. “Don’t make this more difficult than it need be.” She gripped Loki by his sides and pulled him towards her. “Guards---

“Just, stay your men for a minute.” Gwen said. “Give them a chance to say goodbye properly without the chains.”

Thor exhaled reluctantly as he told the guards. “Give them one more minute.”

Mara gripped Loki’s wrists tightly as a moan snuck out of her mouth. he parted her lips gently, slipping his tongue inside her mouth, causing her to gasp lightly. She knew he was doing this to make a point to Thor, that she was his. It didn’t matter about the contract, it didn’t matter what Odin said or how Thor pursued her. She belonged to Loki. She was his love, her heart and his mate. 

After a few moments, Thor cleared his throat causing Loki to break the kiss. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” She held up her hand with the ring on it. “I’m…truly honored to wear this.”

“The honor,” he placed a kiss on her hand. “is truly mine.” he turned to the guards and with a shake of his shoulders, he was fully dressed. He held his hands out as he stated. “Now, you may lead me away.” She would have started crying, but Loki said. “Hey!” she looked up as he was chained and he had a smile on his face. “I will be back for you, my dark one. And I will love you for as long as there are stars in the sky.” 

She let out a shaky exhale as Gwen moved towards her and placed a hand on her shoulder. “I’ll be waiting for you, my love.” 

He chuckled as he stated. “It won’t be long. You…won’t believe how beautiful our future will be my love. I can’t wait to share it with you.”

“Nor I, with you.” And with that, he was lead away. She sniffled as Gwen sat beside her. “God, I miss him already.”

“That’s how love goes.” Gwen sighed sympathetically as she rubbed her shoulder. “The two of you are making me hate myself.”

“She’s wearing a ring.” Sif’s voice made her go still. She turned to see that Thor and all the warriors were in the room. Sif pointed to her ring on her. “Looks as if Loki gave it to her.”

Thor glances down at her hand and his face stiffens. “Did my brother…

“Yes.” She held his gaze as she stated. “I accepted him.”

“He asked you to marry him?” Gwen squealed as Mara nodded. She hugged her carefully yet tightly. “Oh, that’s wonderful news! Didn’t I say that man was in love with you? I called it, so I get to be a bridesmaid when you marry!”

“Do you understand what that ring means?” Sif asked. “What it symbolizes? What he’s saying to all of Asgard---

“Yes, he explained it thoroughly to me.”

“And you don’t mind being viewed as a possession of Loki’s?”

“Why would I mind?” she inquired. “That’s the whole point of a relationship, isn’t it? I belong to him and he belongs to me. I see no shame in it.”

“The shame is in accepting it from Loki.” Sif sneered. “What possessed you to accept it from a man like him?”

“Thor,” Gwen spoke. “are you going to just stand there and let her speak disparagingly about your brother?”

“He tried to kill Thor!” Sif shouted. 

“Stop making stuff up, Sif.” Mara snapped. “Just because you hate Loki, there is no need to tell lies.”

“He tried to kill Thor and steal the throne.”

“His mother passed the crown to him while Odin slept!” Mara stated. “If you hate him being on the throne, blame his mother for giving it to him!”

“He’s always wanted the---

“He never did!” she shouted. “He only wanted to be treated equally! And Thor should surround himself with better friends than poisonous vipers as you!”

“Enough.” Thor said loudly. “Let us put this aside---

“Then all of you get out of my room.” she snapped as she rubbed her head. It wasn’t aching, but it was throbbing. “You may stand by and listen to her tell lies about your brother, but I will not stand by and listen to her spread lies about the man that I love!”

“You’re to marry Thor and---

“I will never willingly marry Thor!” Mara snapped. “If I’m forced to marry him, I will still be devoted to Loki!”

“You’d be executed for such treason!” Sif snapped.

Mara snorted. “Well, that’s one way to get out the marriage.” Everyone stood still as she coldly ordered. “Now, everyone except for Gwen, get out of my room and stay out!”

“Look---

“No.” Gwen said firmly. “Mara is exhausted and she doesn’t want you here. Go!”

“But---

“I said go!” Gwen stated. “Go!” everyone stared at Gwen as she turned back to Mara. “Now, tell me about how he proposed to you! And by the way,” she held up Mara’s hand. “the ring, is absolutely beautiful.”

Mara smiled as she said. “Thank you.” 

She began telling her about how Loki had held her and given her a ring that he’d crafted himself. As the warriors departed, she saw Thor looking at her and there was a darkness in his eyes. She saw something in his eyes that she didn’t like, it scared her. Loki had looked at her with a similar look in his eyes. It was when Loki wanted her to fall in love with him. Where Loki’s eyes were soft and encouraging, Thor’s eyes were determined, almost forceful and she began to wonder if once she was well if Thor would become determined to try and make her fall in love with him.

Chapter Text

Two weeks later,

Gwen banged on the door to Thor’s chambers. She heard him grumble around as he got to the door. “What?” he demanded, his golden hair a mess.

She exhaled as she said. “You’re doing it again.”

He frowned. “Doing what?”

Gwen was finding Thor more irritating by the moment. “I don’t know. Convulsing, having nightmares, I don’t know! If we were sleeping together, I would know!” he frowned in confusion at her statement. “Look,” she sighed. “Mara is freaking out over the lightning and I hate waking you up---

“But you did it anyway!” he pointed out.

She sighed. “Not because I wanted to, believe me. But she is exhausted, she worked real hard today.”

“No, I don’t know.” He says. “Because neither you or her, will permit me to be there.”

“Yes,” Gwen exhaled as she said. “but I cannot force her to want you to be there for her.”

“Yet, you take her side.”

“In this, I do.” Gwen stated. “She loves Loki and if that’s who she wants, I will support her. She likes you Thor, but seriously, you are not her type of man at all. You’re a green flag and she’s always been about yellow flags, bordering on red, which is what your brother is.”

He frowns. “I do not understand.”

Gwen sighed. “I could explain it, but, I’m tired and I do not wish to argue with you.”

“What is it about me,” Thor inquiries. “that she finds so repulsive?” Gwen sighs and rubs her brows. It’s late, now is not the time for such an argument and if he presses her, she will tell him the truth. “I am honorable, heir to the throne and a hero to the realms. Loki, he is in prison for the rest of his life and he is not loved by the people. I do not, understand your friend at times.”

Gwen exhaled as she turned towards him. “First off, you’re too big. Mara hates muscle men as she feels overpowered by them. She doesn’t think you’re intelligent,” Thor glowered darkly at her. “and I mean that artistically. Mara writes, so she likes to have deep discussions and things like that. She always thought a well-read man was the sexiest thing ever. She likes to be wooed, spoken romantically to and seduced. All of those skills are in your brother’s wheelhouse and not yours.”

“Those,” he stated. “have nothing to do with our natures!” 

she chuckled as she said. “I’m getting to that. Not to mention, you’d rather go off and hunt or attack whatever monster was threatening a kingdom. Loki, would rather spend his time with her and make a life with her. She finds that appealing. As to your natures, the two of you could not be different. Loki encourages her to try different things and he knows how to make her feel at ease. He’s gentle, sensitive and funny. And while you’re both good-looking and strong, you’re not the man that she needs. It’s that simple.”

He studied her and said. “Does she truly not care what he’s done? All the people who’ve suffered?”

“And by people, you mean your family?” Gwen exhaled. “It’s late, I do not wish to argue, but can you tell me how your actions differed from your brother’s in regard’s to Jotunheim?” Thor glowered at her. “You need not answer it now, you can tell me tomorrow.”

“Your highness.” They both turned to see a guard approaching them swiftly. He cleared his throat. “The princess…she’s gone down to the dungeon.”

Gwen gasped. “No. She can barely walk!”

“I know.” The guard said as Thor grabbed his shirt. “She nearly fell and I tried to take her back, but she refused to go.”

“God, no!” Gwen hurried to Mara’s room to get a robe.

Mara’s recovery had been slow, mostly because Mara wasn’t trying to get better. Well, unintentionally that is. She refused to eat any foods that could possibly be drugged, so that meant she ate a lot of fruit. Gwen started cooking eggs for her in the fireplaces along with slices of ham. Apart from that, Mara didn’t really eat much else so her muscles were very weak. She had to learn how to walk again, which was so frustrating for Mara. She spent hours crying as she tried to walk with crutches. Frigga tried encouraging her to spend less time in bed, but Mara couldn’t be consoled. She missed Loki and every day, Mara made less and less progress. Walking to and from her bathroom was exhausting and she dragged her left leg. She couldn’t imagine her having the strength to make it to the dungeons!

She and Thor both ran down the corridors to the dungeons. When they made it to the dungeon, Mara was in a heap on the floor! Gwen’s heart jumped in her chest at the horrific sight of Mara lying there. “Oh, no!”

“Guard!” Thor shouted. “Fetch Eir!”

Gwen knelt beside her and placed a finger on Mara’s neck, searching for a pulse. Mara moaned. “Loki.”

“Mara, it’s me. Gwen.”

Mara sniffled as she whispered. “Loki.”

Gwen exhaled and looked up at Thor. “She wants Loki.”

Thor exhaled and said. “Loki has to stay here---

“Just let him out, get him to carry her up to her bed and then return him.” Thor opened his mouth and she held up a finger. “You can object all you want, but it’s your fault that she’s down here!”

he stared at her in shock. “How is it my fault?”

“That lightning show you put on!” She said. “She was asleep beforehand, remember?”

he exhaled. “Father, will not like it.”

Gwen exhaled as she said. “This is an emergency. I’m sure, that there can be exceptions---

“No.” Thor said. “There cannot be.”

Gwen exhaled as she asked. “Then what do we do here?”

Thor knelt. “I’ll pick her up----

“You keep your hands off her!” Gwen snapped at him, reaching out to strike him.

Thor stared at her as he stated. “I am trying to help.”

“No,” Gwen shook her head. “that is not what you’re trying to do. I know it and she knows it!”

“Oh, enough of this!” They both whirled around to see a shirtless Fandral there in only his trousers. The sound of something opening, caused them to look down the long corridor of cells. “Just let him help.”

Thor glowered. “Fandral---

“I know, my friend, but she needs help.” Fandral said. “She can barely walk and if she’s come all this way to see Loki, let her see him.”

Thor exhaled. “You know what father will say.”

Fandral nodded as he said. “It’s a punishment I’m willing to take, especially since the lady is lying on the floor.” 

Loki, cautiously, peered  outside of his cell as if calculating if this was a trap or not. Gwen spoke. “Loki, its Mara.”

He was by her side in a flash. He knelt by Mara as he asked. “What happened?”

“The lightning.” Gwen said as she stood up and let Loki get close to her. “She was coming down here to see you and…I don’t know what happened.”

Loki pressed his hand to Mara’s head. “She fainted.”

“Is she hurt?” Fandral asked.

Loki exhaled. “I can’t tell.”

“No.” Mara said quietly. “I just, can’t move.”

“That’s alright, darling.” Loki said, his voice becoming soft and gentle with Mara. He laid down on the floor and stroked her head. “Just breathe, a moment. I’m here.”

“Loki,” Thor said. “you can’t be out---

“Just let me help her and I’ll go straight back.”

“Loki, I can’t---

“Thank you,” Gwen cut Thor off. “I really appreciate this.”

Loki kissed Mara gently as he said. “It’s late, you should be in bed.”

“Thunderstorm.”

“Ah,” he nodded as he exhaled. “Thor was either having a nightmare or dreaming about some woman in the most compromising position. I favor the latter.” Gwen glanced at Thor who rolled his eyes. Loki continued stroking Mara’s back as he said. “Stay there for a moment, darling. I’m impressed that you were able to get down here, but, darling, you stay in bed until you’ve recovered.”

“I miss you.” Mara turned on her side and Loki put his arms around her waist and pulled her towards him. “It’s been two weeks.”

“I know, I know.” He kissed Mara gently. “I’ve been missing you as well, my dark one, but I want you to get well.”

“Then I need to see you.” She whispered.

Loki tilted Mara’s chin up and kissed her on the lips. Mara let out a moan and Gwen turned aside. Mara had mentioned that Loki had marked, or rather, bound her to him. She didn’t know the details, but figured that this was part of the reason why Mara seemed to be fading instead of getting better. She needed to see Loki or her heart would break. Gwen, never had an attachment of this caliber before and it was almost upsetting to see. To know that she’d never experience a feeling like this before in her life with anyone who loved her as deeply as Loki loved Mara. It made her ache deeply and long for someone to hold her.

After a few moments, Loki broke the kiss and Mara went limp in his arms. He exhaled and stood up, carefully cradling her in his arms. “She’s asleep.”

Gwen exhaled. “Thank goodness. Did you---

“Yes.” He glanced at Mara and said. “She’ll sleep undisturbed till the morning.”

“Thank you. She’s not been sleeping well.”

“Nor eating well.” Loki observed as he moved towards the steps. “She’s lost weight.”

“She’s scared that she’ll get drugged again.” She explained. “She’ll only eat eggs and fruit.”

“That’s not enough.”

“Loki,” Thor stepped forward. “I’ll take her---

“No.” Loki snarled as he took a step back. “You won’t touch her.”

Thor exhaled. “Loki, don’t make this,” Loki vanished and Thor swore. “damn it!”

“Relax,” Fandral said as he moved up the stairs. “we all know where he is. Just wait down here for his return.”

“What has gotten into you Fandral?” Thor demanded. “Your actions border on traitorous tonight!”

“She would have killed herself in an endeavor to see Loki.” Fandral said. “Regardless of Loki’s actions, we know that he will not try to flee Asgard as long as she is this weak.”

“You cannot trust Loki---

“I don’t.” Fandral said. “But I trust his love for Mara. I’m sorry you’re engaged to her, but…those two are meant for each other. I’d like to believe that you know and trust your brother enough to know this much about him.”

Thor stood there and glowered at him. “You will report your actions to the allfather in the morning.”

Fandral nodded. “As you wish.”

Gwen looked in disgust at Thor before turning to Fandral. “Do you mind walking me back to my chambers?”

Fandral grinned charmingly at her. “The pleasure, is all mine.”

As they walked up the stairs, she said. “I’m sorry, I did not wish to get you into trouble.”

“It’s alright.” Fandral said. “Thor’s been agitated these past few days. He will calm down in the morning.”

“I hope so, for your sake.”

“I know so. If not, then I may find myself in the dungeons for a few days, but it’ll have been worth it.”

She shook her head as she asked. “What is wrong with him? Does he truly expect her to stop loving Loki because he gave up the woman that he claimed to have loved.”

“Claimed?” Fandral inquired.

“It’s a claim.” She said. “He gave her up too easily, without a fight or a word.”

Fandral exhaled as he said. “Thor, has had many an issue with his duties. It’s not my place to tell, but he’s in a position where he must do right by his father. He was not always this way and in truth, it’s been the making of him.”

“It’s made him cold and unfeeling.” Gwen said. “It’s as if he’s turned off his heart at times, he can have compassion as long as there’s none towards his brother. When was the last time they’ve talked?”

Fandral frowned. “Talked?”

“Yes, sat down and talked or at least argued about what they’re feeling.”

Fandral laughed and shook his head. “That must be a Midgardian thing. We don’t do that here.”

“So I gathered.” They paused outside Mara’s chambers and she peered inside. Loki had tucked Mara into the bed and was kissing her. She smiled and closed the door before turning to Fandral. “I’ll give them a moment.” He nodded as she said. “Thank you, for helping.”

“Always a pleasure to help a damsel in distress.” Fandral stated with a grin on his face. She smiled as he reached out and cupped her face in his hand. She exhaled as he caressed her face. She knew what he wanted. She could see it in his eyes. He asked her directly. “When are you going to stop resisting me, my lady?”

she didn’t know why she said this, but she looked him in the eye and said. “Tonight.”

Fandral kissed her passionately, causing her to groan. It wasn’t love. It was loneliness and lust, but God, did it feel good! He, certainly knew what he was doing in comparison to her other boyfriends! She wrapped her arms around his neck as he lifted her up from the floor. He broke the kiss to move one room over to her chambers which were Gwen’s. As he opened the door, she glanced over his shoulder to briefly lock  eyes with Thor’s stormy blue ones. He was heading towards Mara’s room, but he was now standing there, watching them. She didn’t get to think anything of it , for Fandral closed the door and pinned her against the wall, striping her robe and nightdress off.

She thought about what she was doing for a moment, only to shake herself free of the thought. She helped Fandral get free of his trousers and a minute later, Fandral was inside her giving her pleasure like she’d never felt before in her life! God, he felt amazing inside her and his body was sculpted to perfection! She just wished that she knew why she felt like she was cheating on someone and who she was cheating on!!

Chapter Text

The following morning,

“How was the sex?” Gwen choked on her tea at Mara’s words. Mara smiled as she stated. “Fandral?”

Gwen exhaled and nodded. “Yeah.” A beat later she demanded. “How’d you know?”

“You have that look.” 

Gwen shook her head. “I’m sorry. You and Loki only had that time on earth and here I am hooking up with Fandral.”

She sighed as she said. “Don’t worry about Loki and me. We have our moments.”

And they did. Loki and her had again engaged in dream sex and talked at length. God, she missed him so much that she ached and her entire reason for living had just left her body. She felt a little bit more alive, now that she’d seen him, felt him and his touched had brought warmth and life back to her. 

“Still,” Gwen said. “I feel bad.”

“Don’t feel badly.” She was silent a moment before saying. “Loki and I managed to hook up once before he was put back in his cells.”

Gwen’s eyes bulged. “You did what!?”

Before she could answer, the doors to her room opened and Frigga entered. Frigga studied her and then turned to Gwen. “Might I have a moment to speak with Mara privately?”

Gwen turned to Mara, silently asking if it was alright. Mara nodded. “Go on. Go have fun with Fandral or something. Then, you can come back and tell me all that you did."

“I don’t want you to be lonely.”

She smiled as she said. “Loneliness and I are old friends. I’ll be fine.”

Gwen exhaled and said. “I’ll see if I can bring you a book or something.”

“Thank you.”

Gwen dipped into a curtsey before Frigga before hurrying out of the room. Frigga smiled softly as she approached her. “I heard from Thor today, that you were in the cells last night. That you’d made it down and collapsed.” Mara nodded. “You must not exert yourself like this or you’ll never recover.”

“Tell Thor to stop with the thunderstorms.”

Frigga sighed. “The thunderstorms reflect his moods. They’ve been very troubled lately.”

She crossed her arms as she stated. “Because of me. That’s what you were going to say.”

“No, not because of you, directly.” Frigga said as she sat on the edge of the bed. “I do want the best for my sons. I want them both to know love and be loved. Thor has given his up and the allfather is hoping that Loki will do the ‘right thing’ and give you up. But,” she smiles. “Loki’s duty is towards you, not Asgard, so he is doing the right thing.”

She exhaled lightly as she said. “Thank you, for understanding.”

After a moment’s silence, Frigga confessed. “I did not love the allfather when we married. I admired him and I met him on occasion. I had no idea that he desired me to be his queen until his council members came to my family home with his offer of marriage.”

“And were you allowed to choose,” she inquired. “or would you have been obliged to say no?”

Frigga frowned. “It never occurred to me to turn him. He was the king.”

“So…you didn’t worry that you wouldn’t love him?”

“Love, is not as important a feeling here as it is on Midgard. There are other things that we consider to be of more value, such as the good of others. My marriage to the allfather, it brought forward many things. Thor. Peace. So many connections. Even you being restored to your family could be attributed to our marriage. Had he married someone other than me, she may not have taken Loki in and he’d have died.” She hated to admit it, but she knew that was true. Frigga exhaled as she said. “You have to start making an effort with your progress. The healers tell me that you’re healing slowly. You don’t eat.”

“I don’t eat anything, that I haven’t seen Gwen prepare.” She said. “I was nearly drugged on earth and I will not risk that happening here.”

Frigga exhaled deeply. “I will go myself to the kitchen and get something light for you. You need to regain your strength.”

“I’m fine.” Her voice broke at the end, so she cleared her throat before repeating. “I’m fine.”

“Clearly you’re not.” Frigga placed a hand on hers. “You look as if you’re about to burst into tears.”

She inhaled sharply as she said. “There is a hole inside me. It aches, it burns and I am alone. The other half…of my heart and soul is gone.” Frigga's eyes softened as Mara said. “I miss him, oh so very much.”

“that, is a feeling I know too well.” Frigga squeezed her hand before standing up. “I believe I can alleviate that ache and put a smile on your face, but it cannot be for long.”

“Please,” she turned onto her side. “don’t worry about me. I wish to be left alone for the time.”

“Mara?” at the sound of Loki’s voice, she bolted upright and instantly regretted it. “Mara!” she looked over as a projection of him walked over to the bed. “Lie back down, what are you doing?”

“Loki!” she stared at him as Frigga moved to stand by her side. “What, how are you---

“Mother is allowing an astral projection to appear. We can communicate and see each other this way.”

She turned to Frigga and smiled. “Thank you.”

“Anything to help you heal. Odin was told about how you came down to see Loki and he has forbidden the two of you to see each other.” She gasped and tears filled her eyes. “However, I can arrange for the two of you to talk like this, several times a day.” Frigga turned to Loki as she said. “It’ll be much safer for her than her continually going down to the dungeons.”

Loki nodded, a reluctant expression on his face. “Mother is right. It’s not safe for you, Mara.”

She inhaled as she said. “I miss you. I need to see you and talk to you.”

“I’m here now.” He moved towards her and exhaled. “Just do not touch me or we’ll lose all contact.”

“She’s not eating, Loki.” Frigga said. “I’m going to get her something to eat. I’ll see to it that you’re not disturbed.”

“Thank you, mother.” Loki turned to her. “Mara, I know that you have these moments where you get so upset that you starve yourself. Please, don’t.”

She exhaled. “I’m not starving myself, Loki.”

“Gwen said that you eat just fruit and eggs.”

“That’s the only thing that they can’t drug. I have some ham on occasion.” She explained. “And when there’s a great feast, she does bring me things because they can’t cast a spell on every food.”

He chuckles as he says. “You, are so clever my dark one. Come, let us discuss other things in detail as we have a limited time until my mother arrives.”

“Like what, Loki?” she fluffed her pillow a little and laid back.

“Important things. Like how many children you intend to give to me when we marry.” Mara blushed red at his passionate words as he stared through her as if she were made of glass. “I intend, to get you with child as soon as I am free from these walls.”

Her heart pounded in her chest as she said. “I-I'd like to have children, Loki.”

“How many?” He inquired. “I have a great passion and love for you, so I will not be restrained when I’m with you.” She let out a whimper, clenching her legs together, which did not escape unnoticed by Loki. He chuckled. “Easy pet. I recall there being tales from your Greek fantasy tales about Zeus. He had…50 children.”

“Loki!” She shook her head. “No!”

“Though people believed him to have had many more!” he stated. “Close to 100 children.” Heat filled her face at the look in Loki’s eyes. “I would bury myself in till you could give me no more.”

“Loki,” she exhaled. “no, I do not want to give birth to 50. I wouldn’t even wish to give you ten!”

“Then give me five, pet.” He coaxed in a low and urging voice. “Give be half of that number.”

She bit her lip and said. “I really…was thinking no more than four, but,” she exhaled. “yes. Five it will be.”

He laughed and nodded. “Thank you. But, I need you to have your strength. Your birthday is next week and you will be expected to attend a banquet in your honor.”

“I shall wear black and not eat.” She stated. “Unless you’re there will me, there really is nothing special.” She blinked. “You remembered my birthday?”

“Yes.” He said. “I did.”

She exhaled and said. “And yours isn’t for four months.” She sighed. “I wish you could be here with me.”

“I’m always with you Mara, no matter what.” He studied her before asking. “Now, tell me how my witless oaf of a brother fares in his attempts to ‘win you over’?”

she laughs as she says. “He can’t even enter my room! I dismiss him immediately and if he chooses to stay, I go and take a cold bath. He does not follow me."

"You, are so clever." He grinned as he said. "I shall tell you things that my brother finds off-putting in a woman. That way, he shall stay far away from you."

Mara’s birthday,

“I do not think this is a good idea.” Fandral hissed in Gwen’s ear.

“I know.” Gwen stated. “But I do not care. I have had enough of this.”

“I have as well, but, you may want to reconsider---

Fandral went silent as the great doors swung open revealing Thor in conference with his father. Frigga, was aware of her purpose here, so she’d entered from another direction. No matter how many times she roamed these halls, she was always struck by the beauty of the palace, especially the exquisite architecture. However magnificent the details, it was always cold here and devoid of affection. Even the bedrooms lacked art that depicted any sort of warmth. For all their scientific advancements and power, emotions and feelings had gotten left behind.

“So,” Odin said lowly. “the mortal Gwendolyn has demanded my presence.”

“I would have requested,” she said as she bowed down lowly. “but circumstances demanded a firmer hand in regards to our audience, allfather.”

As she straightened up, she could see that Odin was reading her. He nodded and leaned forward. “Very well. What is your request?”

She held his gaze as she said. “I have come to request that Loki be freed from his cell for the day.”

Thor’s brows rose and Odin instantly shook his head. “No.”

She knew this wouldn’t be easy, but she was undeterred. “Allfather,” Gwen said politely. “my friend has lost everything. Her career, her lifestyle and she’s even been denied the man that she loves.” Odin rolled his eyes at those words. “She was severely injured and brought to the point of death. Sitting in a room all day is not healthy for the mind or spirit, especially for one that is already sad. I fear that she will only grow worse.”

Odin studied her and turned to Frigga. “Is she indeed as ill as she proclaims?”

Frigga nods. “You can talk to Eir. Mara has no will to even rise from her bed and she barely eats for fear of being given a potion again. She has lost more weight since her injury, Eir says she barely does anything but read and listen to music that she brought from Midgard.”

Odin turned to Thor and stated. “You said, you were spending time with her!”

“Father, I have tried,” Thor stated. “but she refuses to let me near her! I cannot force her to spend time with me---

“You must!” Odin stated. “I cannot allow their bond to deepen. It is too strong as it is! You must interfere!”

That’s when inspiration struck Gwen.

“Actually, allfather,” she stated slowly. “that is why you must let Mara and Loki spend time together.” He shot her a look. A dark look that said he’d throw her in the dungeon if she said another word. “Let me explain. If you force Mara to spend time with Thor, she won’t. As Frigga will confirm, we ladies like to be coaxed, not ordered.”

“What are you suggesting, then?” Thor inquired.

“The more Thor pushes, the more he looks like the villain to Mara and Loki becomes an even bigger martyr in her eyes.” She explained. “If Thor were to accompany them while they were out, she would she be forced to see Thor differently.”

“And allfather,” Fandral said. “we all know Loki’s nature and disposition. It will not take him long to show his true colors. He and Thor are brothers, they each know each other’s weaknesses. Thor can control his better than Loki ever could.”

Thor nodded in agreement as he said. “There is sense in what she says. All she knows of us is what Loki has told her and we have not been showing her otherwise.”

Odin studied her and said. “And you believe that her spending time in Loki’s company will allow her to see differently?”
“That and to do a multitude of things.” She explained simply. “As you’re aware, she’s a mortal and we mortal’s suffer a variety of complications. I believe she may die of one condition, if she is not compelled to leave her bed.”

“And what is that?” Is that, Odin inquired.

“Broken heart syndrome.”

Odin snorted. “The heart cannot break.”

“On Midgard, people do die of broken hearts, you forget that she is still mortal and subject to mortal illnesses. One cannot deny that she has been sad, depressed and pining for Loki. Seeing him, does give her a will to live. I ask only for a few hours of his company to encourage her to help her regain her strength.”

Odin was silent for a long time. “I will allow two hours. But on two conditions. The first being that Thor, you and the warriors will accompany them. The other, that she attend the banquet in her honor.”

Gwen hesitated as she said. “I’m not sure about the banquet.”

“She will attend.”

“Allfather,” Frigga spoke. “she may not have the strength.”

“If she has strength to endure two hours with Loki’s company, she will endure the banquet!” Odin stated. “Is that clear?”

“Yes.” Gwen nodded. “I’ll make sure that she doesn’t get worn out.”

“Perhaps, we give her a tour for a ship or a boat.” Fandral says. “Keep her sitting as much as possible.”

“Yes.” Odin said slowly as he stood up. He exhaled and turned to Frigga. “Walk with me.”

She nodded at him. “As you wish.” 

And with that, Gwen turned and walked calmly out of the hall. Mara would have to endure Thor’s company in addition to the others. But she’d have two hours of Loki’s company. They’d be able to touch and kiss, which would be truly the greatest gift that she could give her today.

Chapter Text

Loki exhaled deeply as he folded the ten page letter that he’d written to Mara. His mother would be contacting him and he’d ask her to send one of her most trusted ladies down to his cell to give her these letters. Norns, how he missed this woman with every fiber of his being. Every drop of his blood wanted her, his arms ached to hold her and he was desperate to feel her perfect body underneath his. Feel her fingers digging into his back, feel her tight, wet, heat strangling his cock as he pounded their children into her willing womb while she whimpered that she loved him. Oh, the way that she said that she loved him…it was the most beautiful thing that he’d ever heard in his life.

His cell opened, drawing his thoughts away from Mara and his memories of her. He stood up, folding the papers into his jacket as Thor and his ever present group of admirers who pretended to be warriors. He crossed his arms as he asked. “Well, what did Odin send you down here to drag me up there and have my head taken off?”

“Actually,” Thor stated. “Gwen got father to release you for two hours.”

He stared at Thor in shock. “What?”

“You’re being given two hours,” Fandral said with a satisfied smirk on his face. “in that time, you’ll be allowed to spend time with your lady and show her around Asgard.”

He couldn’t move. He was so stunned that he said nothing as the chains were put around his hands, neck and feet before leading him out of the dungeon towards Mara’s chambers. He was actually going to be allowed to see her! What was going on? Was Odin growing sentimental in his old age? Why was he being permitted to see Mara?! Odin had made it very clear that Loki would never have Mara as his, yet, here they would be sharing her birthday together for two hours! That…was a great gift that he wasn’t sure he was being given it for. Gwen, he owed her so much for this.

When they arrived outside the chambers, there stood Gwen in traditional, cream colored Asgardian robes with gold trim. With her tall, slender figure and red hair, she looked as if she blended right into the Asgardian life. At least, until she opened her mouth. “No.” She shook her head. “No chains.”

“Gwendolyn,” Thor bit out.

“Don’t call me Gwendolyn.” She stated. “Sounds like you’re going to scold me.”

“I am.” He said. “We’re going on a tour of Asgard and Loki cannot be permitted---

“Mara can barely walk on her own!” Gwen snapped at him. “He’s not going to take her away or leave her behind in her condition. So, take the chains off!”

“He is, the most dangerous prisoner in all of Asgard.” Sif stated. “We cannot leave him unchained to cause chaos.”

“Let me tell you something,” Gwen said firmly. “there isn’t a doubt in my mind that Loki isn’t a prisoner.” He couldn’t help but smirk at the look on everyone’s faces. “He’s here, because he wants to be here, because Mara is here. So, no, you don’t have to worry about him running away. You can worry about that as soon as Mara’s well enough to travel. But until then, you might as well remove the chains.”

Everyone looked at him and he simply shrugged. “Might as well do what she said.”

Thor studied him. “If you give me your word you won’t try to escape---

“Fine! I give my word. I swear I won’t try to escape. Now,” he held his hands out. “get these off so I can go see Mara.”

Thor stared him down for the longest time before nodding at Hogun who began to undo the cuffs. “I’m warning you Loki, any problems and I will take you down.”

“How reassuring, brother.” He said sarcastically.

Thor shot him a look of annoyance and the moment those chains were off him, he pushed past Thor and entered Mara’s room. The room was empty, but the rich scent of magnolias told him that she was in the bath. He stood in front of the entry to the bath, waiting for her to come out. He didn’t have to wait long for she soon exited wearing her emerald green silk robe while toweling her hair. God, she was breathtaking. He didn’t realize that he was holding his breath until she finally looked up and noticed him standing there. She blinked several times, the towel falling from her hands as he held his arms open for her before saying. “I’m here, my love.”

She stared at him, as if she couldn’t believe it. “Loki?” 

he nodded and moved towards her. “I’m here.” The others may have joined him in the room by now, but he didn’t care. Mara started crying as she ran, well, hobbled rather towards him. “Shh, it’s alright.” He assured her as he held her close. “I got you.” 

God, she felt so small in his arms. She wasn’t back to her normal weight yet, but she was trying. She wrapped her legs around his waist and her arms went around his shoulders. He exhaled as he kissed her neck, causing her to let out a sob as she ran one of her hands through his hair while stroking her face. He kissed her deeply and she moaned. God, it felt as if he hadn’t kissed her in over a thousand years. He ran his hands over her wonderful body that she arched against his, silently begging him to touch her. He would touch her today. He didn’t know how, but he knew that there’d be a moment where everyone’s guard would be down and he’d touch. No! He’d take her, make her take him and every inch of his cock. Hopefully, he’d successfully implant his offspring inside her.

Someone cleared their throat and he broke the kiss. She looked up at him, tears shining in her beautiful green eyes as she whispered. “Loki. Is this a dream?”

“No.”

“W-what is this? Did Odin let you go?” his heart twisted as tears filled her eyes. “Are we,” she licked her lips  as she asked. “is he letting us be together?”

“No.” He said softly, hating how her heart broke. “But I’m yours for two hours. Gwen, pleaded your case to Odin and got him to grant me two hours in your company. So, if you’re up to it, I want to show you Asgard.”

She inhaled raggedly as she declared. “If you asked me to fly, I could sprout wings in this moment.” Her legs buckled slightly, but fortunately, he had a tight grip on her. “It’s alright, I just turned my ankle.”

“Alright.” He caressed her face. “I’ll wait for you, my love.”

“I won’t be long.” She turned and hobbled into her closet. The moment she shut the door, he turned to Gwen and inquired. “How long has she been like this? There’s little to no improvement”

She sighed. “I’d be lying, if I said she was improving, but…she has no desire to get better Loki right now.” He exhaled and rubbed the bridge of his nose. “You know how she gets when she’s upset.”

“I do.” He exhaled as he said. “I’ll write a list of foods that she likes. I believe,” he moved towards the bookcase. “she brought some cookbooks from Asgard. So, if you were to supervise, we may be able to get her to eat more.”

“I don’t know why I didn’t think about this.” Gwen said as she took the cookbooks. “Thank you, Loki.”

“I’ll try to persuade her to get some air outside.” He exhaled as he said. “She’s looking pale, even more than I'd last seen her.”

“She’s pining for you, Loki.” Gwen said as she gave him a direct look. “Some afternoons, I’ll come into her room and she’s just sitting on her couch, listening to music and rubbing her neck.”

God, why did he ever mark her? He hadn’t done it on purpose and he wasn’t aware of even doing it. Now, she waited, crying for him, seeking and he couldn’t comfort her with his touch. Fandral cleared his throat as he surveyed Gwen. “You…are looking very attractive this day.”

“That’s all?” Gwen inquired. “Just attractive?” Fandral looked confused and Gwen laughed. “I’m teasing.”

“Where will we be going, Loki?” Thor inquired with a slightly sharp edge.

He exhaled as he said. “I’ll say when we’re in the ship.”

Thor’s brows arched. “Ship?”

“She’s not walking.” He said directly. “She’s not strong enough.”

Thor nodded in agreement as he stepped towards him. “You will have a care, brother. She is betrothed to me---

“She wears my ring,” he reminds Thor. “my ring cancels out any ancient paperwork. Besides, she doesn't like you.”

Thor glowered at him. “You will not, mock me, Loki. Behave, or you’ll find yourself back in your cell!”

Oh, he hated his brother dearly in this moment. “Why? You think that’ll make her love you?” he shakes his head as he declares. “It won’t, Thor.”

“Enough.” Gwen said. “The two of you, need to breathe. Thor, if you cut Loki’s time short, you can explain to your father why Mara didn’t attend the banquet.”

Thor’s blue eyes flared as he said. “That wasn’t the deal!”

“Nor is Loki not getting his time.” Gwen stated. “Break the deal and I’ll break it thoroughly, your highness!”

for a moment, there was absolute silence as Thor and Gwen stared each other down. Now this…was interesting. There was something, he didn’t know what, interest perhaps, mutually flying between Thor and Gwen. THAT explained why Thor was so irritable! He’d given up Jane only to find himself attracted to Gwen! Another mortal! Not that he blamed Thor, Gwen was very attractive. But there were several problems with being attracted to Gwen. She was mortal, VERY mortal. It would take a gold apple to give her immortality, but she was a commoner. Thor HAD to marry a princess and the princess had already been chosen for him. In addition, Gwen was with Fandral. Fandral was one of Thor’s friends and stealing a girl from a friend that was something that’d never be done. He exhaled and shook his head, no wonder Thor was beyond irritated. He probably wanted to persuade Mara to marry him to free him from all temptation.

The door to the bathroom opened and Mara came out. Loki smiled for she was wearing Midgardian clothes. She wore her hair down and he smiled at her ‘scandalous’ Asgardian attire. She wore a turquoise off the shoulder blouse and high white shorts. “I’m ready.” Loki couldn’t help but stare at her, causing her to blush. “What is it, Loki?”

“As gorgeous as you are,” he states as he steps towards her with a smile on his face. “I’d prefer keeping this vision of you, all to myself.”

“What makes you so sure this show isn’t for you?” She smirks as she leans forward as she whispers in his ear. “It’s to let them know what Thor will never have. I’m yours completely. You can touch me at your leisure, Loki.”

“Oh, my dark one,” he ran his hand up her exposed leg to her thigh. “I intend to pet.”

“Good.” She kissed him deeply on the lips while guiding his hand higher up her thigh, just so he could grab the curve of her shapely hips, which he did, causing her to moan.

“Enough!” Thor said sharply, causing them to separate. “Loki, have a care with how you handle her in public.”

“If it escaped your notice,” Mara said softly. “I put his hand there because I want him to touch me. We are engaged.”

Thor’s eyes flashed and he took a step forward. “You and I, are betrothed and you will mind how you present yourself in public.”

Loki felt Mara’s temper flare, so he spoke. “No promises Thor.”

“Shall we move along?” Gwen said. “I’m assuming that the 2 hours start when we’re in the ship.”

Fandral caught on quickly to Gwen’s words and he nodded. “Yes.” He offered Gwen his arm. “Shall we?”

Gwen took his arm without even thinking about it. “Yes.”

Those two swept out of the room as if they owned the place. He chuckled and took Mara’s arm. With a wave of his hand, he switched to a tan linen Midgardian suit so Mara wouldn’t be out of place. He then gave her a large hat to help keep the sun off her and sunglasses. She smiled and took his arm and they followed Fandral and Gwen. He could feel Sif and Thor stabbing daggers into their back, but he ignored them. He had two hours with Mara and he intended to make use of them to the fullest.
They walked down the hall, ignoring all the courtiers who stared at them and whispered behind their hands. The whispers grew when Mara stepped under his arm, wrapping her right around his waist so he could hold her left, which prominently displayed her engagement ring. By the time they returned, word that Mara was engaged to him would have spread throughout all of Asgard. Her actions were obvious in showing the world which brother had her heart.

When they made it outside, there was a ship waiting for them and Fandral and Gwen were already in it. It was one without a roof, so Mara would be able to look out. He’d have to watch her carefully and make sure that she didn’t get overheated. He felt her looking dubiously at the small gangplank that led into the ship. He knew what her over imaginative brain was doing. She took one step the wrong way and fell to her death. God, her chaotic thoughts were so amusing.

Without a word, Loki swept her up into his arms. “Oh!” She wrapped her arms around his neck. “Thank you, that didn’t look safe.”

“You’re always safe with me.”

“Ohh,” Gwen teased. “that is just so romantic.”

“She can walk.” Sif said firmly, clearly intending to shatter the moment. “She doesn’t need you to carry her.”

“He knows that, but, he’s showing that he cares for me. let him do so.” Mara kissed him, causing Sif to let out a sound of disgust. “Besides, a man likes to show off his strength, you’ll understand if you find one.”

Loki snorted as he set her down in a seat. “Good luck there.” He sat down beside her. “Are you comfortable?”

“Yes.” 

“Need anything?”

she reaches for his hand and holds it with a smile. “I’m all set now.”

“If Loki is your definition of strength,” Volstagg teased. “you’ll be disappointed.”

“I don’t think you’re in any position to tell me what would disappoint me.” Mara said sharply. “Considering that the only people on this ship who know me are Loki and Gwen. When I ask for you opinion, which I didn’t, I’ll ask for it!”

Volstagg’s jaw dropped and Thor spoke up. “It was only a friendly jest---

“I don’t do jokes.” She said simply.

“Hmm,” Loki murmured into her neck causing her to shiver. He wasn't touching her, but his breath on her neck should be enough to calm her down. “my lady has claws.”

She whispered. “Stop.”

“Stop what?”

“Making me want you.” She breathed.

His pulse quickened. “I’m merely speaking to you.”

“Sometimes, how you speak is more than enough to make me wet.”

He groaned and shifted. “Ok, no more talking for either of us.”

“Don’t crowd the lady Loki.” Thor stated.

Were they going to be like this all day? Loki groaned in annoyance. “Why don’t you all just---

Mara bumped him with her hip. “Ignore them Loki.”

“How can I---

“Because I’m right here.” She draped her legs over his lap, crossing them delicately at the ankle. He smiled as he stroked her pale, slender legs. “You said you’d show me Asgard, now…show me your Asgard.”

He hesitated a moment before smiling faintly at her. She was right. She was right here in his arms and nothing else matter. He pulled her close as he said. “As my lady wishes.”

Chapter Text

“Right, you can open your eyes,” Loki said as he placed her in position. “and see the tree, now.”

Mara opened her eyes and gasped in shock at the beauty. “Oh, my God! Loki!” he chuckled. “Oh! It’s so beautiful!”

Loki chuckled as she clutched his arm. “It’s almost similar to your willow, except for the pink leaves and white blossoms. It’s a valpunain tree.”

“It’s so beautiful.” She said as Loki reached up and pulled down a huge white blossom and handed it to her. She inhaled its rich scent. It was almost as if someone had mixed gardenia, honeysuckle and lilac together. “Mhm, this is potent.”

“They do say there are healing properties to this plant, but,” Loki brushed her hair back from her face. “the tree is so beautiful, that it’s a shame to harvest from it.”

“I can see why.”

“Can we move on?” Volstagg inquired, causing Loki to go stiff for a moment. “This is boring!”

“Do be quiet!” Gwen said as she approached. “This is a beautiful tree.”

Mara snuggled closer to Loki and whispered. “I love you.”

He smiled, the tension leaving his body for a moment. “I love you too.”

It was growing difficult for Loki to stay focused on her. She held onto his arm as they explored the various spots. Mara nodded, asking him questions while Thor watched them closely. Loki soon forgot there were others in the ship with them as he conversed with Mara. Conversation between them flowed easily and Loki held onto her, occasionally kissing her cheek, neck or even her shoulder. But it was his hands that she deeply appreciated. His long fingers stroked her bare legs, caressing them up and down, causally catching her skin between his fingers. She allowed his touch and encouraged it, leaning further into him. Thor had tried engaging her in conversation, along with the rest of the warriors, but she’d acted as if they didn’t exist. She only had two hours with Loki. Who cared what the rest of them had to say?

Gwen, was the best friend a girl could have. She monopolized Fandral and kept the others entertained. She was almost babysitting them. She and Thor…there was something strange between Gwen and Thor. They were snappish with each other and often went silent after their quick explosions. It was so strange to see. Gwen rarely got annoyed and Thor, she had a feeling he was like a golden retriever in nature. He was now acting like a chihuahua, snapping at everyone’s heels. Thor had sat down next to her until Gwen told him to scoot over so Loki could sit on one side and Gwen on the other. At that point, Thor had gone to the head of the boat, Sif sat next to him, glowering angrily at the display Loki, and Mara made. As a rule, she hated public displays, but she knew she’d only feel Loki’s gentle hands on her body for a limited time.

Loki frowned as he looked at her. “You’re feeling a little warm, my dark one.”

“I’m alright. I’m comfortable.” She assured him as he pressed his hand to her forehead. “Loki---

“You’re overheating.” He guided her towards the ship. “Let us go somewhere cooler. There’s a place not far from here, near the water and I daresay that none of the others have been here.”

“Is it a special place?” she inquired. “If it is, I don’t want them to encroach on it.”

He shrugs. “They won’t venture here again because if they don’t know how to get in properly, they’ll die.”

Her brow arched as she said. “Everything is so mysterious with you.”

He chuckles as Gwen says. “Back on the ship!”

“Great!” Fandral said. “Can we actually go somewhere that’s fun?”

“I’m hungry!” Volstagg whined, causing her to roll her eyes as Loki guided her to sit down. “I could do with a bit of food.”

“Save your appetite for the feast, my friend!” Thor said. “Tis only another hour.”

“An hour!” Volstagg whined. 

“By the gods,” Sif said. “can we not go somewhere of interest?”

Mara frowned. “It’s been interesting. We’ve been to the market, the theaters, the great library---

“We haven’t been to anywhere with some action!” Thor stated. “We wouldn’t want you to get bored on your first day out.”

“I’m not bored.” She stated calmly. “I assure you, I am enjoying every moment. Loki’s taken me to places that I would wish to explore at home.”

“Mara’s a homebody.” Gwen stated as she sat down. “She won’t be interested in any place with swordplay.”

Everyone whined as Hogun asked. “Not even the ships racing?” His memory had finally been restored, but he was wary being around Mara now. He did apologize for attempting to drug her and swore that he wouldn’t do it again to Loki’s amusement. Loki had enchanted a cup at the market for Mara. If her drink were tampered with in anyway, the cup would turn black. He also bought a basket with a lid, which they’d filled with foods that would last her a long time. Again, the box was enchanted to open only for her. This way, she and Gwen could go and shop in the markets without her fearing that the food would be tainted.

“No,” Gwen laughed lightly. “I’m afraid not, but it does sound like fun.”

“Perhaps,” Fandral says as he runs his hand up and down Gwen’s back. “we shall take you there later, my little fox.”
Gwen made a face. “Good God, don’t call me that.”

“Why not?”

“Just don’t!” She says. “It makes me sound ridiculous!”

“I assure you,” Fandral said. “that you are anything but ridiculous.”

Loki pats the driver on the shoulder, jerking his head to the side. She felt Thor and the others get tense as the driver vacated and allowed Loki to drive. She moves to sit behind him, resting her hand on his shoulder. He smiled at her before lifting up into the air and returning in the general direction that they’d come from. As they’d approached this tree, they’d passed a beautiful waterfall, which Loki now turned towards. Actually, he drove straight towards the waterfall, causing Thor and everyone apart from her to go tense. 

“Loki.” Thor warned as he stood up on his feet. “What are you doing?”

“If it were easy,” he said with a mischievous grin on his face. “everybody would do it.”

“What are you doing?” Sif demanded as she stood up, getting every warrior on their feet.

“Will everyone just sit down? It’s alright!” Mara assured them. “Do you really think he’d try to do anything that could result in me getting injured?”

“Yes!” All the warriors said.

Mara snorted as she looked at Gwen. “And they’re supposed to be the best warriors in all the realms.”

Gwen shrugged. “They’re more brawn, but that’s alright. Everyone, just sit down. I’m sure it’s alright…even though it is terrifying!”

“Mara needs to cool down,” Loki explained. “can’t do that if she stays out in this heat and killing her would be rather counter-productive.”

Everyone inhaled as they approached the waterfall. Loki tilted his head to the side, nodded and then drove through the waterfall. Mara, along with everyone else gasped as the ice coldness of the water enveloped theme. It was a shocking but refreshing moment, but their gasps of shock faded in astonishment as they entered this cave. 

“Tada!” Loki said as he stood up before nodding for the driver to take over. The cave…it was full of beautiful crystals. The whole cave was sparkling and beautiful. With a wave of his hand, Loki sent a light upwards illuminating the whole cave.

“Oh my God,” she whispered as she stared at the sparkling crystal ceiling. “it’s beautiful.”

He nods then shrugs as he pulls her against him. “It was,” she frowns. “now, it pales in comparison to you and your beauty.”

She turns and kisses him deeply on the mouth. he hesitates for a second, but he places his hands on her hips and pulls her to him. she smiles and runs her hands through his hair. She smiles as she gives him two more pecks on the lips. “I’ll remember this moment…forever.”

“That was my intent.” He placed his hand on her head and frowned. “You’re burning up.”

“I’m fine.”

“Bring the boat down to the water.” He ordered the driver before turning to Thor. “She needs fifteen minutes.”

Everyone pouted. “No!” Volstagg said. “There’s finally something interesting and we’ve got to wait for fifteen minutes while she just---

“Shut up, Volstagg.” Loki snapped.

“You watch your tongue,” Sif snapped at him. “you pathetic worm!”

“Oh stop it!” Fandral said. “The lady can’t help it! She is ill and needs time to recuperate.”

“Perhaps,” Gwen said as the driver landed on this island in the middle of the cave. “we might venture on ahead a bit? Mara could have her fifteen minutes and we could explore. That way, everyone is happy.”

Sif shook her head. “He cannot be trusted!”

“Sure,” Loki said sarcastically. “the moment that you’re all gone, I’m going to abandon Mara and head off for parts unknown!” Loki helped her out of the ship. “Easy, pet. There you go.”

“Thank you.” She pulled off her shoes and with a wave, Loki altered their clothes to be appropriate swimming apparel. She inhaled as she stepped in the water. It was cold. It was then that she realized that she was overheated. “Oh, I didn’t realize how warm I was.”

“I know.” He reached into his pocket. “I brought your pills and,” he conjured up a bottle of water. “you can take it with this.”

She smiled at him as she said. “You really are quite impressive, Loki.”

He shakes his head. A cocky smile that attempted to appear modest on his face, but modesty was never one of his strong suits. “Thank you, pet.”

They waded in, slowly and carefully so the change to her body temperature wouldn’t be drastic. When they got up to their knees, Thor exhaled deeply. “Loki, we’re going to venture up aways and then return for the two of you.”

“We’ll both be here.” Loki promised. “15 minutes?”

“Perhaps a little longer?” Gwen asked.

“Fifteen minutes is more than sufficient.” Thor said. “You both better be here.”

“We will.” Loki said. “After all, you’re our ticket out of here!” Thor let out a snort and shook his head. As the boat lifted up and continued to explore this huge cave, Loki said. “They’ll be longer. The crystals grow more intricate, so, they’ll lose track of time. I know I often did.”

“I really hope this wasn’t a special place of yours, Loki.” She said. “I hate the idea of them knowing where it is.”

“They’d have to know where the entrance is. You miss it by a foot,” he shrugged. “and you risk getting blown up. But I’m the better pilot, so no fear of them returning. Now,” he pulled her close and kissed her. “I have you…all alone pet for nearly 30 minutes.”

Her eyes widened. “Thirty??”

“Trust me, it’ll be thirty minutes.” As he leaned forward to kiss her, he said. “Tell me…what should I do to you, pet?”

she blushed as she whispered. “Many things. Everything.” Loki kissed her so deeply that he brought her to her knees and he got on top of her. Oh, how she loved this man! They had thirty minutes and they’d be in absolute heaven as they finally got to explore each other after being denied each other for so long.

“Why are we leaving them alone again?” Sif demanded.

“Lady Gwendolyn pointed out that Mara’s migraines are often brought on by heat.” Fandral stated. “So, we should allow her the fifteen minutes to cool down.”

“And you really think Loki will still be there when we return?” she demanded. “In fifteen minutes, he could be anywhere!! Someone should have stayed with them!”

“No one wanted to stay!” Gwen reminded Sif, her temper itching to burst out. “Besides, Loki will not leave her alone.”

Sif snorted. “Please. You cannot trust him.”

“I don’t trust him.’ Hogun stated causing them all to look towards him. “But he won’t leave her alone, not while she’s still recovering. She can barely walk.”

“I agree with you there my friend.” Thor exhales as he says. “He claims that his feelings for her are genuine---

“They are.” Gwen said firmly, causing Thor to look at her with those blue eyes of his. God, why did he have to be so good looking? “He cared too much for her for him to be able to fake his feelings.”

“Loki’s a liar,” Sif snapped. “a god of mischief. He can’t be trusted.”

“And has there been anything in Loki’s previous relationships to suggest that…well, that he’d be untrue in regarding his affections. Has he had relationships before?”

Thor actually looked a little uncomfortable. He cleared his throat as he crossed his arms. “I believe so.”

“You believe? He’s your brother. I thought you guys all sat back and talked about the women you had sex with.” All the men choked and looked at each other in discomfort. Gwen shook her head. “I know it’s done. Just as I know Fandral probably told everyone about me!”

 Fandral stared at her and said. “Only Volstagg.” She arched a brow. “And Hogun, but he can’t remember.”

“I do.” Hogun stated darkly.

“Traitor.” Fandral shifted uneasily. “And Sif. And Thor and…

“I don’t care. If it were anything more than fun, I would care. Besides, I’ve had the maids ask me and I’ve indulged a little as well.” 

Fandral frowned. “Who asked?”

“That’s irrelevant.” She said with a wave of her hand. “My point is, you men gossip about your conquests. So, who did Loki talk about sleeping with?”

Thor exhaled as he stated. “I don’t know!”

“So, he keeps his conquests to himself, like a gentleman should.” She clears her throat and asks. “How do these relationships end? Does he break up with them? Do the ladies end things? Or do they just part by mutual consent?”

“Why does this even matter?” Thor inquired. “You know that father betrothed her to me.”

“It matters because it shows just how little you know your own brother.” Gwen stated with a cross of her arms. “And you don’t know him you’ll never know Mara. She hates unobservant men like you.”

Thor glowered at her. “I am not unobservant. And you,” he snapped at her. “you said that you will help me! So far, you’ve done little to help me!”

“We had to give them a little space at first. What color are Mara’s eyes?” she asked, causing Thor to stare her down. “What color are the clothes she’s wearing today? What color is her hair?” when Thor didn’t answer, she shook her head in disgust. “You’re so vain that you don’t care about anything or anyone other than yourself.”

“Hold on---

“I’m surprised you have the desire to marry Mara. You’re so happily married to yourself!”

the moment those words left her mouth, she knew it was a mistake. Everyone started shouting at Thor and she turned back to see Mjolnier flying at her head!

Chapter Text

“I’ve missed…being with you.” Mara whispered as she ran her hand through Loki’s hair. “I think about our first time, so often.”

“Same, pet. You have occupied my mind for so long that I think about very little else.” He kissed her deeply before rasping against her lips. “I want you.” She nodded. “I must have you now.”

“Loki---

“Inhale.” They went under the water and Loki pulled her the short distance back to the rocky shore. She gasped for air as they broke the surface together. The first thing she noticed was the water was now pulling at her bare waist. She glanced down to she realize that she was completely naked and Loki moved towards the shore. Heat filled her body as Loki worked his mouth passionately against hers. “I must have you.” He said after conjuring a pile of blankets for her to lie in. 

She felt her heart flutter as his clothes vanished with a casual shake. God, he was so…perfect. Every single inch of him had been sculpted to perfection and she admired his form as he got on top of her. She shivered lightly as she felt his erection against her entrance. But God, was she ready for this, ready for him! She inhaled and whispered. “Claim me Loki.”

“I will.” He stated as she swallowed and parted her legs for him. He took her right leg and threw it over her shoulder causing her heart to race faster in his chest. “Now, I’m going to fill you up, my love.” Mara let out a whimper as Loki slid into her. He let out a groan; it had been so long since they’d been together. He felt larger at this angle and this time her body struggled to take the size of him. She closed her eyes, arching her hips a little bit for him. “God, you’re so tight.” He let out a groan of frustration as her body unintentionally fought him. He let out a sharp exhale. “Let me in pet, don’t fight me.” 

He slid partly out, only to slam back into her. “Oh! Oh G-God!” She let out a sharp cry as he fully sheathed himself inside of her. “Loki.”

He reached over her head, gripping the rocks so he could stabilize himself. “Am I hurting you?” she shook her head. “Are you strong enough to take me in this manner?”

“Yes.” She hissed. “Loki….yes!”

he began moving in her, letting out a groan of pleasure as he moved firmly and deeply inside her. “I will take you, until your body takes the shape of mine. I will ruin you for others!”

She, reached for his face, pulling his lips to hers. “Make me yours!”

“You are, but I wish claim every drop of blood in your body!” 

He kissed her deeply before taking her hard, fast and deep. Mara released his face to grip his shoulders tightly, throwing her head back as she drowned in the pleasure of this glorious assault. She bucked her hips, her hands clawing his back as begged him for more. She couldn’t speak, she marveled that he could speak such passionate words of love. His voice was ragged, his breathing hard as he slammed into her hard as if he were an mad animal intent on breeding his mate to death. But she wanted it, she wanted him so desperately. His breath was hot against her flesh, his mouth desperate to taste every inch of her and his hands held her as if he were afraid she’d vanish in his arms. 

This wasn’t slow and gentle like their first time. It was passion filled. There was no where that wasn’t touched, kissed or tasted. Every inch of skin was explored down to every single bud on their tongues. Loki, he was beyond thorough and he was driven with a force that she couldn’t understand. By the time he brought her close to climax, she was half-screaming. She didn’t care if they were overheard, she was on the brink of madness! She was sobbing happy tears of pleasure as she held onto Loki, her legs tight around his waist. One hand gripped his neck and the other was around his shoulders as they both drew close to concluding their union.

“I can feel it, you’re close, aren’t you?” She nodded. “You’re burning, my love. I cannot hold back any longer.” His hands gripped her hips, pulling her closer to him. “Come with me…together!”

Mara threw her head back with a loud cry as she came. Loki let out a long, shuddering roar as he drove into her one last time. He filled her, she could feel his release swirling inside her and he placed his hand on her stomach. He said something in an unfamiliar language to her. He didn’t know what he said, but his hand glowed gold and his green eyes burned with passion as his voice rose as he chanted his final words. Mara lost her grip on him and fell backwards to the blankets, her hands above her head as if in surrender. She was stunned, gasping for air and her body…God, her entire body was warm and sweating from the exertion. They’d practically attacked each other in their want for each other. Loki’s heavy breathing was keeping her body in a constant state of throbbing.  

After a few moments, Loki looked down at her. A dominate and passionate expression on his face as he said. “You cannot marry Thor. can you?” God, was he mad? She wasn’t even thinking of Thor now! In truth, she’d forgotten that he’d existed. “Not after what we have shared together?”

She shook her head before pulling him down so she could kiss him on the mouth. He let out a sound of pleasure as he kissed her back. Once she broke it, she breathed against his mouth, “I shall have and love no other man but you.”

“I love you as well.” He exhaled and looked at her. “Did I hurt you?”

She shook her head. “You could never.”

“I might have. I wasn’t as restrained as I was with you on Midgard and you are somewhat injured.”

“Not too injured for this.”

“I was denied you too long my dark one and I fear,” he paused for a long moment. “another side of me was trying to break through.”

“I loved being with you.” She admitted honestly. “I needed to feel you, I’ve been kept away from you so long that…this was exactly what I needed. I needed to feel like I was yours again and you were mine.”

He exhaled as he ran his hand through her hair. “You’re… so different from Asgardian women.” Her brow arched at those words. “You’re not controlled, you’re passionate and you give love in return. Possibly the human side of you. You don’t mind that I wish for you to be mine, to belong solely to me.”

“Loki, darling.” She caressed his face as she reminded him. “You forget that no one has ever loved or wanted me as you do. I’m not a strong, warrior woman like Sif who doesn’t need a man. I’ve been alone all my life. You’ve wanted someone to love and I needed love. We’re two broken pieces that complete each other.” She exhaled as she admitted. “Why do you think I wrote all those stupid novels? Because…I thought men like you didn’t exist.”

“And they don’t,” he said offhandedly. “which is why, you needed a God to tend to your needs.”

“You’re so arrogant, but I love you dearly.” She smiles up at him. “I’d love to point out how you could take off with me now.”

“Yes, but, I’m not running away like a thief in the night with you.” he brushed her hair back from her face. “I don’t want to be looking over my shoulder instead of looking ahead with you.” His expression sobered as he said. “I need you to get better, Mara. I know it’s hard for you…but as soon as you’ve got a clean bill of health from Eir, I’m taking you away.”

She sat up slightly. “Y-you’ve got a plan?”

He nodded. “I’ve always got a plan, my love. But I will need you well, so, regain your strength, eat better and then,” he leaned forward to kiss her lips. “I will take you away from this.” She moaned as he kissed her deeply. She wrapped her arms around his neck and closed her eyes. Then, he began moving inside her, causing her to pull away and look at him in confusion. He smiled, a dark smile that made her shiver in pleasure. “I must have you again, pet.”

“But,” she didn’t understand this. “we just---

“I’m a god, Mara.” He explained. “Not a mortal. I can bed your for an hour straight and not get exhausted.”

She gasped as he began to take her all over again. Dear God, this…was going to wind up in one of her books someday, if she ever got the opportunity to write again.

“You bastard!” Gwen shouted in Thor’s face, causing everyone to gasp in shock. “What the hell is wrong with you!?”

“It was a test!” Fandral said hurriedly as he tried to pull her back from Thor’s face. “He always---

“F*ck the test!” she elbowed him in the throat. Not enough to hurt him, but enough to make him release her! “If you EVER do that again,” she shouted at Thor. “I WILL demand satisfaction!” he laughed at her. “This is no laughing matter, you trumped up, spoiled daddy’s boy!”

“You guard your words,” Sif snarls as she grabbed Gwen’s. “you worthless Midgardian!”

“Or what?” Gwen challenged her. “I’ve already humiliated you once! Care to go for a second round?”

“You’re pathetic.” Sif stated. “You’re not even worth thinking about.”

And with that, Gwen body slammed Sif, sending her over the edge of the ship into the water!! Sif screamed and the men let out astonished yells of surprise as Sif hit the water! Gwen sat down primly and crossed her arms. “Lady Gwendolyn,” Thor said firmly. “That was rather---

“Oh, don’t you DARE lecture me Mr. “I throw hammers at people’s heads to test them!” You’re mad!” 

“Gwen,” Fandral tried again. “just calm down. You passed anyway!”

“I don’t give a damn about that right now! But as far as Sif goes, she’s been asking for someone to stand up to her. clearly, none of you men were up to the task of reining her in.”

“She,” Thor stated. “is one of the most fearsome warriors in the realms. You should not put your hands on her.”

“But she can put her hands on me, because I’m a pathetic mortal. Right? You sound like your father!” his eyes flashed as she added. “And not in a good way! Sif hurt Mara, has refused to apologize for the injury which nearly killed her!” From the look of shock on the men’s faces, she could tell they had expected Sif to apologize to Mara. “Now, you others have joined in her harassment of my sister and Loki. It’s a miracle that they’ve been able to enjoy their time together with her present!”

Thor’s eyes widened. “You said, you brought her here to get acquainted with me.”

“I lied. Besides, you and your teasing hasn’t helped the matter!”

“That was all in friendly jest.” Thor proclaimed.

“You’re all laughing so hard that you failed to notice that we weren’t laughing.” Gwen said. “I’ve been biting my tongue so hard that it’s bled!” 

“We meant no disrespect.” He stated.

“Then stop showing him just that! You've all been nothing but disrespectful!” she stated. “He is not a punching bag for you and your friends to practices your jabs on! Mara told me that you all were bullies and I refused to believe her, truly believing that it was prejudice because she loves Loki. I’m severely disappointed to see that’s not the case. He is your brother, your family and regardless of what he has done, you should not allow others to speak to him in such a manner or treat him as they are!”

“They are my friends.”

“And he is your family. You allow them liberties that are allotted to a family. They need to be reminded of their place.”

“And what if I decided to put you in your place?” he threatened in a low voice as he towered over her.

She wasn’t intimidated by him. “Then I’d rightfully deserve it as I’m not royalty or even Asgardian. However, I would be very lax in being silent about this.” She inhaled before stating. “If this was how you all treated him prior to him falling to Midgard, I am not surprised that he took to a dark path.”

His eyes flashed in indignation. “Are you blaming---

“I’m saying you’ve contributed to him becoming this way. They’ve been granted just two hours together. can any one of you tell me one nice thing that you’ve said to either of them?” Volstagg opened his mouth and she cut him off. “And no, your ‘jests’ do not count!” Again, silence. “And you wonder why his heart is cold and she can’t bear to be around any of you.” She exhaled and sat down. “I shall wait. If any of you, can tell me one nice thing that you’ve said to them, I will apologize to Sif. But you be honest with your callous and uncaring words! You say he's a monster? Well, you made him that monster so take responsibility for your actions!”

And as she thought, they were unable to think of a single, kind thing that was said to Loki. She glanced at Thor and saw that he wasn’t reflecting on this moment, he was reflecting back on years and years of this bullying that they’d probably put Loki through. She could see when it all hit him, for his eyes widened and then filled with regret. Everyone in Asgard needed therapy and this family especially. However, she wondered if this family was too broken to fix. 

Chapter Text

“You’re reprehensible.” Mara moaned after Loki came inside her for the fourth time. Despite Thor saying that they’d be ten minutes, according to Loki, it was way past 30 minutes. She was pleasantly sore, deliciously full and intoxicated on pure happiness. She felt as if her entire body were glowing from the love and attention that Loki had lavished upon her.

“Am I, darling?” he purred in her ear, causing her to shiver against his body. His glowing hand was once again pressed firmly against her stomach. “I think,” he nibbled on her neck causing her to shiver in his arms. “you rather enjoy it when I’m like this.” Mara could only nod. “You enjoy the attention, being worshiped.”

She was spent, she wasn’t sure that she’d be able to walk. As if sensing her thoughts, Loki picked her up and carried her into the water. She let out a moan of pleasure as he treaded water with her legs around his waist. For a while, all was silent as she rested her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes. She closed her eyes, memorizing how his perfect body felt against hers.
After several long moments, she asked him. “What…are you saying Loki, when your hand glows, Loki?”

He exhaled as he confessed. “It’s a fertility spell.” Those words, caused her to go stiff at his words. “You…being pregnant with my child…could null and void the marriage contract if you were to be carrying my baby.”

She was silent a long time before stating. “We never discussed having a baby.”

“You’re my mate, Mara. The other half of me.” He says in an almost dismissive tone. “You will bear my children.”

She slaps his hand hard, causing him to yank his hand off her. “We need to get dressed.”

“What?” he asked as she pulled away to look at him. With a wave of his hands, they’re standing back on the shore fully dressed. “Did you decide that you don’t want my baby anymore?”

she shook her head. “That’s not what I said, Loki. You can’t just go around enchanting me to get me pregnant without talking to me first!”

“It’s my child---

“Ours, Loki. If it was yours, you’d get yourself pregnant and carry the baby yourself!”

he stared at her a long time, those green eyes of his darkening for a bit. “So, you don’t want my baby.”

“I didn’t say it.”

“You’re acting like it!”

“God, you’re so dramatic.” She stated as she grabbed his hand. “Listen to me. I do want your baby, I really do. But,” she sighed. “we have to talk about important things like this, together Loki. After all, I’m the one carrying this baby. I don’t think it’s a good time for us. You’re not able to protect yet.”

“Mother won’t let them harm you---

“She drugged me.” She reminded him. “Do you really trust anyone not to give me something that may cause me to miscarry your child? Your father is willing to do anything to keep us apart! I won’t put it past him to try killing the baby and you know that he will,” her voice broke as she whispered. “I don’t…want to lose the baby Loki. I don’t, want to get pregnant unless I know that you can be there for me.”

He was silent a long time and then Loki pulled her close. “My apologies my love.” He kissed her brow. “You’re right, that was thoughtless of me. I’m sorry.” He kissed her gently. “I should have thought of that.”

“If he finds out---

he exhaled as he said. “When you can walk on your own, we’re getting out of here.”

She frowned. “How?”

“You’ll see, my love. But I promise,” he went to kiss her again. “I will protect you and our baby.”

She moaned as he kissed her deeply. She wrapped her arms around his neck and lost herself in Loki. However, the sound of the approaching ship caused her to inhale deeply. She shook her head and whispered. “No.”

“It’s alright.”

“It’s probably time for you to go and I,” she inhaled. “I don’t want you to go.”

“I know.” He caressed her face gently. “It won’t be forever, but when I’ve finally got you in my arms… I promise to you, that we’ll have forever.” She moaned as Loki kissed her tenderly. She held onto him as Loki lifted her up from the ground, causing her to gasp. He chuckled as he said. “In case I didn’t mention it darling, I fly as well.”

“No, you didn’t.” She chuckled as she held onto him. “You…are like this fascinating story, that just keeps getting better with each chapter. I like it, I like the mystery and the surprises along the way. It keeps life interesting.”

He chuckled as he turned and looked as he got her into the plane. The atmosphere had changed, things seemed solemn and…Sif was wet. Soaking wet, like she’d fallen into the water. Loki let out a chuckle as he stated. “Sif looks angry.” 

Gwen shrugged. “I may have knocked her into the water.”

Mara gasped in shock while Loki howled with laughter. “Gwen!”

“She was asking for it.” Gwen crossed her arms. “Nobody, calls me worthless. Nobody.”

Loki laughed. “I told you I liked her.”

“Yes,” Mara reminded him. “because she was the one who told you to go have sex with me!”

“True,” Loki shrugged while everyone stared at him in shock. “but I liked her before then.”

“How’s your head Mara?” Gwen asked. “Better?”

“Yes.” She said as she sat down and Loki sat down beside her, running his hand through her wet hair. She let out a sigh as she rested her head on his shoulder. “That feels nice.”

“Should I dry your hair, pet?”

she peeked up at him. “You can do that?” Loki waved his hand and Mara gasped as a small ripple of warmth rushed over her. she was instantly dry but cool. She smiles at him with pleasure. “Oh my God, that was incredible!”

Sif snorted. “It’s a cheap trick.”

“Enough Sif!” Thor said sharply. “Lady Gwendolyn has pointed out to us that we’ve been rude and inhospitable this time and we decided to stop with the jesting.”

Mara feels the ripple of shock run through Loki and she glances up at him. He looks stunned for a moment looks stunned beyond belief that his brother actually would say such a thing. She had to admit, it was strange for them to suddenly start being nice. 

Gwen nodded. “Yes, there are pleasant topics we can discuss. It’s not that difficult to be nice.”

“How can one be nice to a snake?” Sif spat, shooting Gwen a dark look.

Regardless that she was fairly certain that Sif was referring to Gwen, she knew it was a side jab at Loki. “By being silent so they don’t strike you?” Sif shot her a disgusted look. “Not that my love is a snake, but,” she placed her hand on Loki’s thigh, causing him to inhale deeply. “you like to cause distension and then act surprised when you get bitten.”

Sif opened her mouth, but Thor cut her off. “Enough Sif. Mara is out to get some air to aid in her recover after your injury to her.”

Sif glowered at him “It was---

“Was it?” he asked quietly, but firmly, causing her to pause. “You owe her and my brother an apology.” Ok, that made Mara sit up. Thor, was actually being nice? She frowned and glanced at Loki, who was equally confused before turning back to Thor. “I was disappointed to learn that you have not as yet, apologized to Mara.”

Sif jumped over that fact and demanded. “Why do I Loki owe one?”

“You called Mara a whore.” The words came spewing out of Loki like a volcano waiting to erupt. “When frankly, her only crime is loving me and not my brother, which should make you happy!”

Those words made everyone, especially Thor frown. “I fail to understand what that---

“Oh for God’s sake,” Loki stated in frustration. “Sif has been in love with you for centuries!” All eyes bulged including Sif’s. “I can’t believe you never noticed Thor! But then…noticing things isn’t really your strong suit.”

Thor just stared at Loki in complete shock. In fact, all the warriors were shocked. Sif, she looked like she was going to be sick until Fandral started laughing. “Sif and Thor? come on! That’s not possible!”

“Think about it. No woman decides to become a warrior like her unless there’s a man involved.” Loki stated pointedly. “No matter what happens, Thor will marry a woman who can actually entertain a kingdom, not slaughter them!”

“Loki,” Mara said firmly. “stop it. That’s not fair of you. What Sif does or doesn’t feel isn’t any of your business.” He opens his mouth and she cuts him off. “You’ve no right to announce it to everyone.”

“She deserves it.” Loki snarled, a fury welling up inside him that caused her to stare at him in surprise.

“Loki---

“Come on! It’s fairly obvious that her original intent was to ‘accidentally’ kill you,” he said sarcastically. “and free Thor from the misfortune of being married to you!”

Mara blanched at those words. Sif jumped to her feet and shouted. “That’s a lie!”

“Is it?” Loki shouted as he jumped up, his hands glowing green in anger as they passed under the waterfall. That caused everyone to jump to their feet. “After all, that blow of hers that nearly killed you.”

“Loki,” Thor warned. “stand down.”

Loki ignored him, but Mara grabbed his forearms, instantly causing him to turn towards her. “Loki, stop it.”

“But she’s a---

“I know. I know.” She cupped his face in her hands. “Look at me.” He inhaled and then exhaled deeply. “Calm down.” She brought his face downwards to hers, resting his forehead against hers. “I know you’re overly protective of me and you’re angry with Sif and this situation. But for God’s sake, you don’t need lose all of your logic and rationality by stooping to her level of pettiness. So please…stop.”

Everyone held their breath as Loki and Mara stared each other down, waiting to see if Loki would listen to her or himself.

Chapter Text

He had a choice to make.

He could disregard everything that Mara had said and blast Sif in the face. Yes, that meant his time with her would be cut short but Sif had been brutal in tormenting him with Mara’s ‘marriage’ to Thor. Oh, Sif hated Mara and while she hid her animosity from Thor, she was unable to hide it from him. Sif was absolutely pathetic in her ‘love’ for Thor. They were both warriors and Thor did not need to marry another warrior. He needed a woman and he needed a woman who’d push him to greatness. Loki knew this because Mara had a similar effect on him. She’d guided him to be a better version of himself with her gentle, yet firm nature. However, it was her compassion, sensitivity and empathy that drew him to her. She could understand what he was feeling and rather than dismissing it, she addressed it and calmed him.

He knew what she wanted from him. He exhaled deeply as he lowered his hands. Fine. He’d blast Sif’s face off another day. He exhaled and turned towards Sif who had her head held high, stiff and unemotional. But her eyes tattled that she was on the edge of tears. He nodded his head curtly as he said. “My apologies Sif.”

“Shut up!” she snapped at him. “You…I can’t wait until the day that Odin finally breaks and orders your execution!”

“Sif.” Thor warned. “Don’t.”

Loki shook his head. “It’s not my fault that Thor’s an idiot. You should have told him centuries ago how you felt!” Sif got redder. “True, we’d still be in this situation, but at least you wouldn’t have to go around and try killing Mara!”

“Enough, Loki!” Mara slapped his leg. She winced and grabbed her hand in pain. “What has gotten into you?” he shrugged and ignored the question, vexing her. She smacked him again. “Answer me this instance!”

He sighed and said with a charming smile that normally got him anything that he wanted. “You know, you’re completely and utterly charming when you’re frustrated like this.”

She looks him dead in the eye and states. “Not working on me at this moment, Loki.”

Oh, that smile slid off his face as Fandral and the others sat up, immensely enjoying this. “Why should you care?” he demanded. “Sif has been anything but kind to you this entire time! She nearly killed you, has refused to apologize, threatened Gwen and I’ve endured her tongue for weeks while you’ve been bedridden. So forgive me, if I finally got the chance to get back at her and took it.”

“Weeks?” she inquired. “What do you mean you endured her for weeks?”

He shoots her a look that he knew she’d interpret. “What do you think I meant when I said I get inconsequential visitors?” 
“I thought perhaps Thor or your mother, but---

“No.” he said sharply. “I didn’t.”

Mara was silent for a long time and then she looked at Thor. Sif snorted and shook her head. “I didn’t say anything that---

“Sif,” Thor said firmly, his voice tattled that he was weary of the fighting. After several long moments, he nodded and said with an exhale. “I’ll see to it that she doesn’t go to your cell again.”

That…surprised him, but he still kept his tone dry and sarcastic. “Appreciated, brother.” 

Thor glowered at him. “You did not need to embarrass her like that!”

He’d had enough of this. “Oh for God’s sake,” Loki snapped. “Sif has been in love with you, for centuries! It’s not my fault that you’re clearly too stupid to see what’s in front of your face!” 

Thor stood up as did Loki. “Enough!” Thor shouted.

“Or what?!” Loki shouted back, causing Mara and Gwen to stand up and get between the two men. “You’ll hit me with your stupid hammer!!”

“I do not need Mjolnier,” Thor threatened lowly. “to make you suffer and you know it.”

“Both of you, stop it!” Gwen snapped. “Stop it right now!”

“If you two want to argue,” Mara snapped. “We’ll pull over now and you two can go at it!”

“It is not necessary.” Thor said.

“Oh I think it is!” Mara said. “Clearly, the two of you need to get whatever is bothering you out of your systems. Land this ship! Now!”

Fandral stood. “Look, this is---

“Sit down and shut up!” she snapped. “Let them do this!”

“Land the f*cking ship,” Gwen ordered. “and for God’s sake, just land punch each other!”

“No.” Thor shook his head. “We are not fighting.”

“Why not?” Mara asked. “The two of you just need to get whatever animosity is between the two of you out of your system! Just do it!”

“Come on,” Fandral said. “it wouldn’t be fair.”

“Why not?” Mara demanded.

“Because Thor, always cheats using Mjolnier.” Loki points out.

Thor glowers at him. “I do not cheat. Besides, you use your magic!”

“Alright!” Gwen said. “How about there’s no hammer and no magic? That should pretty much level the playing field.”

Thor snorted and rolled his eyes. “You seriously put too much trust in Loki and him playing fair.”

Loki saw red. He drew his fist back and punched Thor right in the jaw! Thor went flying out of the ship and Loki jumped after him! Thor hit the ground, Loki landed on top of him and began to beat the hell out of Thor as if his life depended on it! Normally, he never stood a chance against Thor, but this was a fight not just for his life, but for his heart. If he lost Mara to Thor…no, he wouldn’t think about that. He needed to make it clear to Thor that he was NOT giving Mara up without a fight and it was going to be one hell of a fight!

“Lok---

he punched Thor in the jaw, causing Thor to groan. He then punched Thor in the throat, causing him to gasp for air. He didn’t let up, he just kept hitting and hitting Thor. Thor finally got his breath back and he flipped Loki on his back and punched him in the nose. Loki kneed him in the stomach and flipped Thor lover his head. However, what Loki didn’t anticipate Thor taking him with him. Loki yelled as he went flying through the air, his head hitting the trunk of a nearby tree. This time Thor had time to recover and begin hitting him in the face. He grabbed ahold of Thor’s beard causing him to yell as he pulled on it. They rolled about on the ground, down the hill, off the cliff, which forced them to look at where they were falling. He and Thor both were yelling as they hit the ice cold water. 

They both broke the surface, sputtering against the cold water before locking eyes with each other. They basically counted  to three and then lunged at each other. Thor grabbed ahold of Loki and held him underwater. Loki, instead of struggling to get free, punched Thor in the balls causing him to howl and let him go!

He broke the surface to see Thor grabbing himself and he remembered a moment of when he'd hit Thor with a shield as they were kids. Loki couldn’t help but start laughing at him. Thor, clearly remembering, flew at him with a roar, which sent them both out of the water, back up the hill and into the thick forest. Trees flew around them like locust taking to the skies. He and Thor could vaguely hear Fandral, Sif, Gwen, Hogun and Mara yelling at them. But Gwen and Mara were right, they needed to get this out of their systems and by God, they did.

Only when they crashed into a hill and fell to the ground did they both lay on the ground for a moment, breathing heavily. God, he’d almost forgotten about this. The way that they’d start fighting and then just stop. There was never a reason or an explanation for it. They just stopped. They were brothers after all, at least, somewhat. They weren’t feeling very brotherly and hadn’t for a while if they were being honest. This, was probably the first time in the last two hundred years that things felt clearer between them. But if he knew it, this wouldn’t last long. 

Thor made a face at him before adjusting himself in his trousers. “Now,” he cleared his throat and Loki couldn’t help but smirk as he noted how Thor’s voice was just a pinch higher than normal. “did you have to do that Loki? Really? Of all places to hit me?”

“You were trying to drown me, so, why not?” Loki said. “It’s not as if you were planning on bedding any woman tonight.” He shot him a look before stating. “At least, not one that you’d care to admit to.”

Thor exhaled as he said. “And what does that mean?”

“Gwen.” 

Thor glowered at him slightly. “Shut up.”

“Oh dear.” He teased. “Whatever will Odin do when he hears that his golden son, has once again, fallen for another mortal?”

“Loki---

“Don’t worry,” Loki said dismissively. “she won’t have eyes for Fandral long. It’s just a phase. Then, you can turn your eyes to---

“I’m NOT interested in her, Loki!”

he shrugged. “Whatever you say.”

Thor shook his head and stood up, looking around for a moment. He exhaled. “We’re late. We should get back.”

So they should. But they were alone and if there was a time to speak clearly to Thor without prying eyes and ears, this was it. “Don’t marry her Thor.” Loki said seriously, causing Thor to stop walking away from him. Both didn’t look at each other and that made it easier for him to continue speaking “If you marry her,” he shook his head as he stated with absolute certainty. “I’ll never call you brother again. I swear it.”

Thor was silent a long time before exhaling. “Loki, there’s a contract---

“Damn the contract. Why would you want her, when you know that she’s been with me repeatedly?”

Thor exhaled as he said. “I do not want her---

“You must want her! There is no other reason for you going out of your way to try and win her favor.” He stated. “For all intents and purpose, you should be focusing on Gwen! Mara, she belongs to me and you do all of us a great disservice by going along with this farce.”

“You talk of farce?” Thor demands harshly before yanking Loki to his feet. He didn’t even bother fighting him. Thor was frustrated and not likely to hit him in this moment. “Loki, you put yourself in this situation! Your crimes have you in prison for all eternity.” Thor shook his head in disappointment before releasing him. “And you show no regret regarding your behavior. It is your own fault that you cannot be with her.”

He rolled his eyes. “And if Mara had visited before this and she still wanted to be with me…how likely is it that Odin would have given her to me?”

Thor exhaled as he said. “I don’t know Loki. But it’s not my fault that this has happened.”

“Thor---

“There is nothing I can do about it!” Thor half-roared. “Do you think mother has not been trying daily to get him to change his mind? That I haven’t tried? That the lady Gwendolyn hasn’t been begging him for your release? We have ALL tried Loki! But a contract was signed and you know that it has to be honored! You and your poisonous thoughts have put you in this position!”

he knew this to be true, he just didn’t want to admit it. He knew that Odin would have done anything to protect Thor. Odin, showed no such allegiance to him and never did.

After a long moment of silence he admitted. “While I know you and Odin think me incapable of it… I do and don’t have my regrets.” he says honestly. “I do regret what I did because for that reason I cannot be with her. But if I hadn’t done what I did…I’d have never met her.” He looks up at Thor as he states. “And that would truly would have been the biggest regret of my life.” Thor said nothing as Loki stares him down. After a moment he stands up and asks Thor, half-taunting him. “What do you even know of her? do you know her surname?” Thor says nothing. “Can you tell me the color of her eyes without looking at her?”

Thor exhaled and shook his head. “Loki---

“She has a scar on the palm one her right hand, do you know how she got it? Do you even know that she can sing?”

“Loki---

“She hates it, but she can. She’s an alto. You don’t know what foods make her ill or break out. You wouldn’t be able to hand her a CD or DVD and know which one she needs to hear when she’s upset! You know nothing about her!!” 

“And that,” Thor reminds him. “is not my fault! You…take up every moment of her time! Even when there are others present it’s as if no one else exists for her.”

“She’s an elf, Thor.” Loki reminded him. “You know the legends, especially silver elves. Elves can only fall in love once in their lifetime, you know this Thor. When they lose that love, they never fall in love with anyone else.” He held Thor’s gaze as he said. “She will never love you.”

“I am not asking her to love me.” Thor stated. “But if this contract does go ahead---

“It won’t.” Loki snapped at him.

Thor exhaled deeply. “Loki, it’s out of my hands right now.”

God, Thor had become a coward since his visit to earth. A slight challenge to Odin's authority on occasion didn’t mean that Odin would yank his powers away. But Thor, he’d been scared and he’d been helpless without his powers. Thor wasn’t comfortable or familiar with that sensation. He was clearly reluctant to endure such things again.

He shook his head as he stated lowly. “You take everything from me.” 

Thor exhaled. “No, I don’t Loki.”

“Yes, you do.” Loki states. “The throne. Father. My freedom. And even now, you’d allow yourself to take the woman I love, even knowing that she loves me in return.”

“I cannot go against the allfather.”

“Never stopped you before.” Loki stated. “But it’s ok, Thor. it’s ok to want Mara. I just know that if you two do marry, she will never let you touch her. so the line to throne will die with you.” Thor turned to walk away. “And if she does miraculously provide an heir to the throne, it’ll be mine that I’ll have put into her.” At that moment, the whirring of the ship caused them both to stand as the ship approached. He saw Mara at the head, her hand shading her eyes as she looked for them. Their eyes met and she waved at him. He smiled at her as he said only loud enough for Thor to hear. “She is mine Thor and she wants me. You’d do well to go after the one meant for you.”

All was silent, but when they lowered the ship so that they could get into it, Thor said. “You know I cannot.”

Loki nodded before stating. “Then you’re not worthy of her. I do not let cell walls stop me from fighting for her hand.” He looked at Thor in disappointment. “If you cannot lift a hand for the woman you love…you’d do fit to give up the throne.”

And with that, he teleported into the ship and moved to Mara. Without a word, she reached up and swiped the blood. Thor got into the ship, all alone. He doubted that they’d mended their fences as they said on Midgard. But Mara was right; it had felt good to punch Thor in the face.

Chapter Text

Two weeks later,

“Loki?”

Loki looked up from where he was reading his book. She inhaled as his charming face lit up. “Norns, you look stunning, Mara.” She blushed as she turned around slowly for him to see. “You are truly the most exquisite woman I’ve ever seen pet.”

“And you,” she cleared her throat as she said. “have a beautiful way of speaking, Loki.”

“It’s easy to describe such beauty,” he said lowly. “when one is as beautiful as you are my love.” She exhaled and placed her hand near the glass. He shook his head as he admired her. “How are you feeling?”

she exhaled deeply as she shook her head. “I don’t want to go. I don’t want to know them.”

“I know, Mara.”

This was the afternoon that she’d be formally her ‘parents’. Wodhake and Bafiela Moonsong. Her name was Runa Moonsong. God, she hated that name so much. She inhaled deeply as she looked at him. She shakes her head as she says. “I don’t…I’ve had too many years without parents in my life. I mean…they’re complete strangers. People who signed me away to marry someone who I never met. From what your mother told me, the contracts were signed before I was even born.”

He exhaled as he said. “That is the custom.”

“I wasn’t even conceived yet.”

“I know.” He exhaled deeply. “I wish I could be out there for you, my pet.”

She smiled as she touched the enchanted emerald green pendant. “You made sure that we could talk to each other. That is far more than I thought could be possible.”

When they returned from the two-hour picnic, Loki had whisked her up to her chambers. He’d enchanted an emerald pendant of hers along with a mirror. Now, they could talk to each other through the mirror, but the pendant, it would allow him to be able to listen to her conversations throughout all of Asgard. He’d enchanted it for this very reason. He was suspicious about her parents and wanted to know what it is that they were saying during these negations. She agreed that it’d be much more emotional for her and another set of ears on her side couldn’t hurt things any.

“Princess Runa.” She groaned and shook her head at that dreadful name coming out of the mouth of the guard standing behind her. “You’ve been summoned to the throne room.”

She sighed and turned. “And I bet, Odin summoned me. Correct?” the guard didn’t even blink. She exhaled deeply before turning back to Loki. “I’m sorry.”

He smiled at her. “You’ll be alright. I’ll be right there by your heart. I’ll hear every word that you’ve ever said.”

She exhaled deeply and blew a kiss to him. He smiled and nodded before she turned and walked away. She inhaled and exhaled before walking up the dark prison stairs in a flowing fantasy inspired green dress. She hated the Greek style robe look that everyone wore around here. If she had to wear something, she wanted it to be a bit more ‘modern’. Besides, with the Asgardian fabrics, she had an opportunity to have dramatic gowns that weren’t easily crafted on earth. She wore an intricate gold corset waist with green skirts that flowed behind her. It was off the shoulder, partly to show off the bite that Loki had on had left on her neck. Her neck was now scarred because Loki had bitten her neck several times when they’d had that time together. She hadn’t realized that her neck had been raw and bleeding until she’d gotten back home.

Her birthday party had been…interesting. She’d shown up, wearing a green dress which caused silence to fill the banquet hall. Mostly because people were curious about her as she spent most of her time in her room recovering. However, her bold chose in wearing ‘Loki’s colors’ and his engagement ring, immediately caused people to begin gossiping. One of the courtiers had noticed the ring and asked if Thor had given it to her. Thor had said it was a gift from his mother, which had been the agreed story. But Mara, decided to change the story and tell the truth. When she announced that Loki had given it to her and she accepted, gossip began going through the hall like wildfire. Odin, had been beyond furious when the gossip finally made it’s way to his ears. He told her to come to an audience with him. She’d refused, citing that she was unwell and that turned out to be true when she got up after the luxurious meal and fallen down. Eir had been summoned and she’d said Mara had overexerted herself. When Eir inquired about Loki’s bite on her neck, she’d said it was from Loki and a deathly silence filled the hall. It was clear to all that Loki was the man of her choice.

Because Mara refused to let Thor touch her, it took two of Eir’s assistants and Gwen to get her back to her chambers. Once there, she’d slept soundly and woken up in time for lunch. Odin came in afterwards with Frigga and she was properly reprimanded for her actions that allegedly humiliated not just Thor, but the whole of Asgard. Mara had decided to not engage with Odin, which only made him even more furious. He bellowed at her that her engagement to Loki would not stand and as always, she ignored him. Frigga had stayed afterwards and offered words of advice to her that had mostly been about not upsetting Odin. Mara would continue to do that because upsetting Odin would be one way to get out of this marriage to Thor. As Loki said, Thor was the golden child and Odin wanted the best for him.

Hmm, Thor. 

Since that day at the picnic, things between Thor, Fandral and Gwen had been rather interesting. Loki had said Thor was interested in Gwen, but she didn’t see it. Yes, Thor was Gwen’s type, but he was just too good for Gwen. Gwen always wanted someone with a stronger will than Thor. Right now, he was coming off a compliant Daddy’s boy. Gwen HATED daddy’s boys. She wanted a man who spoke up for himself and others, regardless of who he disappointed. Thor, was playing a politician’s game and Gwen hated politicians. Now, Fandral, he wasn’t anything like the men Gwen would normally get involved with. He was just a fling and he was harmless. True, Fandral was handsome and charming, but he was shallow. Gwen wanted a man with character and determination. Those things that Thor had, but his refusal to stand up to his father had made him look unattractive in her eyes. In fact, Gwen’s attraction to Fandral had started when he’d stood up to Thor to protect Mara. 
She inhaled as she entered the hall with the guard behind her. Thor was already there in his formal attire and a solemn expression on his face. Frigga, she was standing beside Thor with an equally serious expression on her face. Odin, he sat on his throne like he owned the entire universe and he did.

Her ‘parents’ turned and looked towards her. For a brief moment her heart jumped in her chest, but it stopped and she felt nothing as she took in their cold and unfeeling expressions. She stopped short and stared at them a moment as they looked at her. Clearly, she’d done something that they disapproved of already and she had no idea what it was.

Bafiela, her ‘mother’ eyed her as if she were a prize mare. She was a beautiful woman, looks that reminded one of Elizabeth Taylor. Her hair was floor-length and her eyes were a pale blue. She nodded as she walked around her in a cool and calculating manner. “She grew up well. Her hair is a disgrace though.”

“I like it that way.” Her tone was slightly sharp, warning this woman that she’d been absent in her life and had no control over her. “It’s the fashion on earth.”

“Here, the longer a woman’s hair, the better.” Bafiela exhaled and nodded at Woodhake. “She’d make a fine queen.”

Mara’s eyes bulged. Woodhake, looked like Richard Armitage with straight black hair that was nearly touching his elbows. Tolkien hadn’t been too far off in his description of elves. They were both tall, pale and slender. Mara wasn’t as tall and she had a feeling that when she was born that she was a disappointment to them. She was probably born early and a runt. 
Woodhake cleared his throat and addressed Odin. “I trust, that we’re prepared to go through with this marriage. The sooner the marriage takes place, the better for all involved.”

Odin nodded as he said. “I quite agree.” Frigga and Thor shot Odin a look which he ignored. “When would you like the wedding to be arranged?”

She couldn’t stay silent a moment longer. “I’m sorry, but the wedding will not progress.” Her new parents looked at her in clear disdain. “I do not want to marry Thor.”

“I don’t really care what you want.” Wodhake stated in a dismissive tone. “You’ve been betrothed to Thor and the ceremony will take place soon.”

God, the mentality from the 1300’s combined with the latest technology was beyond infuriating. “I refuse to marry Thor.” she said tightly. “I am not an animal to be sold and bred at your leisure for your convenience.”

Woodhake’s eyes flared. “You dare to speak to me like that?”

“Yes, I do!” she stated firmly.
\

“Know your place.” Woodhake turned towards her, his deep blue cloak swirling behind him like the wings of an angry raven. 
“Know yours! You’re not my father!” she snapped. “I have known you all of two minutes! You do NOT get to imprison me in marriage---

“SILENCE!” He shouted in her face.

“Go the hell!” She shouted back at him!

“Please,” Frigga stated in a voice that was meant to try and calm the furious situation. “try to remember that Mara has been raised in Midgard. Their style of life is very different from ours.”

“Midgardian rules will cease to exist to you.” Woodhake ordered. “You will do as you are told.”

She snorted and shook her head. “No, I will not!”

“Please!” Frigga said. “There may be another alternative to this marriage contract.” Woodhake and Bafiela turned towards Frigga, fury sparking through their veins. She cleared her throat. “When the bifrost broke, our youngest son, Loki---

“The frost giant?” Woodhake inquired.

Frigga's eyes flashed but she nodded courteously. “Yes. He fell to earth and met Mara. An attachment formed between them and they wish to marry.”

Woodhake stared at them in utter shock and he snarled in disdain. “What?”

“I love him. he has already asked me to be his wife.” Mara held up her hand, revealing the ring that Loki had given her. The sight of the engagement ring caused them to jump in pure shock. “I have accepted him.”

“We are more than willing,” Frigga said. “to honor the terms and conditions of the contract, if you’re willing to allow Mara to marry our youngest son.”

“No.” Woodhake said instantly. God, why was she not surprised? “No, this will not stand.”

Bafiela stated firmly. “We will not allow a frost giant to sit upon the throne. Not after the destruction they reaped upon our world.”

Woodhake turned to Odin and stated. “You know the damage that their monstrous race has done!”

Mara frowns at those words. “Loki is a person and you will not speak degradingly about him in my presence!”

THAT kicked the temperature in the room another 100 degrees as Woodhake whirled around. “You will be silent.”

“I will not be silent!” she snaps. “You are not my family to me and you do not get to dictate my life!” she declared. “I’m informing you, I will not marry Thor! I’d rather die first!”

“Than so be it!” her ‘father’ declared. “Guards, take her back to Nidavellir!”

Mara stepped back, a surge of energy forming inside her that seemed ready to explode from within her. However, before that energy could speak, Odin spoke up. “I’m afraid that’s impossible.”

Woodhake bellowed at Odin. “She is our daughter!”

“Yes,” Odin nodded. “I’m well aware of that. However, due to her unfortunate infatuation with my son, I was forced to take drastic measures. Frigga enchanted her.” Mara turned to Frigga, her jaw dropping open in pure shock. Frigga gave her an apologetic look as Odin said. “She’s bound to Asgard. She can never leave Asgard until the spell is lifted.”

While that was good news, it was a double-edged sword. She couldn’t be dragged off to Nidavellir and executed. But she couldn’t flee from Asgard with Loki. Now, they were bound in a situation that had officially spun out of control.

Chapter Text

“Look,” Thor said calmly. “there is no rush to this. There is still plenty of time for us to---

“No!” Woodhake practically bellows in fury. “We will not have her marry,” he floundered before bellowing. “a frost giant!? You want to marry a monstrous frost giant!?”

“Yes!” she snapped. “Gladly!”

Bafiela shook her head before saying. “Do you have any idea what he’d do to you? Frost giants…they’re abominations!”

“From where I stand,” she stated. “Every single one of you are monsters! Monsters so foul that the ground you walk on dies under your feet!”

“How dare you!” She inhaled sharply and demanded. “Can you not use your magic on her to make her forget your other son?”

Mara burst out laughing as Odin was forced to admit. “We did and tragically that spell didn’t take.”

“Try it again!” Woodhake demanded. “She cannot have feelings for such a monster!”

“Have a care!” Mara shouts. “Loki is still a prince of Asgard and----

“No, he is not.” Odin said firmly. “And it is not your place to say such things.”

“Unless he’s had his title formally removed from him,” Mara stated. “which it hasn’t been. You have no right to declare him as something other than a prince.”

Odin glowered at her as he said. “A mere formality, which will soon be put to right."

“However,” Frigga continued speaking. “Mara’s powers, make most spells useless on her. She was given a spell to erase one’s memory, three times.” Mara went stiff. She had no idea about the third attempt. “Odin had Eir gave it to her in liquid form  but as you can see it has had no effect on her.”

“Why?” Woodhake demanded. “What powers does she have that render your magic impotent? She is not even fully restored to herself so how is this possible?”

Frigga cleared her throat. “Her magic, appears to be focusing on protecting her. Her other powers, will be revealed in time.”

“Is this normal?” Woodhake asked. “I’ve never heard of such a thing.”

“Neither Eir or myself have met someone with some powers. She, however,” Frigga stated. “is not the first to do so. It’s a complete mystery as to why and how she can control this.”

“In Midgard, there is one legend that runs forever.” All eyes go to Mara as she explains. “In all cases of true love, there is no spell strong enough to interfere with it.”

“Love,” Bafiela stated. “is a primitive emotion---

“That I share very strongly with Loki and he feels the same deep emotions as I. Our souls are bound in more ways in ways that you cannot comprehend.” She inhaled as she gripped her skirts. “I will not wed Thor. Ever! I will only wed Loki. So we are all at an impasse here. You can all plan your wedding and all, but I will not marry Thor. Drag me to the altar, put a sword to my head and I will still reject Thor.”

That caused everyone to begin protesting in outrage. She turned and walked out of the room, not caring that it was probably childish of her to do so. She could hear Thor and Frigga, attempting to calm everyone down but to no avail. Odin was yelling at her to get back, but she ignored him and continued with her dramatic exit. She was no more than twenty steps away from the throne room when she heard Thor approaching her.

“Mara. Lady Mara!”

“Thor,” she exhaled tightly. “now, is not a good time.”

“We must speak about this!” he stated.

“There is nothing to say.” She replied. “I will not marry you, Thor! Not for all the jewels in Asgard!”

“Lady Mara,” he stepped in front of her, catching ahold of his shoulders. She instantly smacked him. “Mara---

“Hands off me Thor!” she warned him. “Do NOT touch me!”

“I’m sorry, it’s just,” he exhaled and frustration. “will you just stop running and talk to me?”

“Why?”

“I want to talk to you!” he declared.

“Why?” she demanded. “Why do you want to talk me?”

“Do you think that this does not concern me?” He demanded. “Do you think this only involves you and Loki?”

“It does only involve me and Loki!” She stated.

“No, it does not!” He snapped her. “You and Loki, you both care about nothing but yourselves!”

“Wrong!” She snapped. “We care for each other!”

“You flaunt yourselves in front of all of Asgard!” he shouted. “All of Asgard is whispering!”

“Good!” she shouted back at him. “We are engaged and wish to marry! You do not come into our lives and start demanding that we ignore our feelings just so you’re not embarrassed!”

“I do not demand---

“I know what you’re doing Thor!” She proclaimed. “I know, that your father ordered you to pursue me!” his face goes still and she shakes her head. “Do not play the fool with me, Thor! I have known for the longest time and wish for you to stop! Until you stop, no, I will not allow you to continue this way towards me!”

there was a long silence and then Thor nodded. “I did not realize that you were aware of---

“I was Thor.” She stated. “I am VERY aware of it which is why I refuse to be alone in your company.”

“I’m sorry.” There was a long awkward silence between them before he exhaled. “I'm not a fool,” he said gently. “I know you love my brother, your declaration and actions told me that your…affections for him run deep.”

“Affections run deep? I ache to be with him Thor.” 

“I am sorry.” He said. “But…we have little choice in this matter. Do you truly wish to be at ends at each other? We might at least try to be friends.”

“If Loki were free to love and wed me, then yes, we might be friends. Right now, I see you as an obstacle.”

“That is not of my making.” He said. “I had no choice.”

“Perhaps.” She inhaled and asked him. “Can you not refuse me on any grounds?” he began shaking his head. “I'm not a virgin. You know that I’ve been with your brother.”

“That is not the point.” Thor exhaled. “I cannot go against the allfather’s wishes and as there was a contract signed…I have no choice.”

“Is Loki the only man around here who dares to cross his wishes?” she demands.

“I defied my father long enough.” He said slowly. “I must honor him now. I was…so disrespectful to my father for so many years. Treated him shamefully and showed even less respect for my position. I cannot, go back down a path that was almost my ruin and brought about the ruin of Asgard.”

She inhaled. “I can understand that.”

“I am sorry.” He inhaled. “I too, loved someone else, but…she isn’t of this earth and…I can never go to her. She would not be happy here and it would be unfair of her to ask her to choose this and give up all that she has known.”

She was silent a long time, then she said it to him. “For a man who would be king and is proclaimed a hero of Asgard, you’re a coward Thor.”

He glowers at her. “I am scared of nothing.”

“You’re scared of following your heart.” She shook her head. “I know, that you’re trying to honor your father, but you have an obligation to yourself.”

Thor blinked as he said. “I know not what you mean.”

“Loki told me. You’re in love with Gwen.”

Thor shook his head. “I am not.”

“She’s attracted to you as well.” Those eyes of his widened a little. “She, like you, has common sense. She’s mortal and you’re an Asgardian prince. She knows that there’s no point to a relationship with you.”

“She’d be right.” Thor said lowly. “As heir to the throne…I must chose wisely and you were chosen for me.”

Mara shakes her head. “But I’ve chosen Loki and Loki chose me. You live for thousands of years Thor. It’d be better to live those years with a woman that actually loved you. If you can’t fight for her…then you’ll be of no use to Asgard. You have to love something to fight well for it. If you’re fighting with half a heart, you might as well be fighting with no heart at all.”

Gwen rounded the corner to see Mara walking quickly away from Thor. She frowned as she approached Thor. “What happened?”

He exhaled and turned towards her. He looked exhausted. “She met her family.”

“I’m willing to wager, that it did not go well.”

He shook his head. “No. Her parents will not allow the marriage contract to be broken.” 

Gwen exhaled and shook her head. “God, that’s terrible.”

Thor moved towards the balcony and leaned over the edge, peering downwards. “Norns, she must hate me.”

“She doesn’t hate you.” Gwen said simply. “You’re just not your brother.”

He nods. “So, I’m aware.”

After a moment of drumming her fingers on the smooth railing, she asked him. “Does it bother you? That she prefers him to you?”

He was silent for a moment before admitting. “It’s not something I’m used to, I’ll admit. I like… seeing my brother happy and I do envy him for that. I do see how they look at each other and I,” he pauses and shook his head. “never mind.”

“You want someone to look at you like that.” Gwen said quietly. She knew and understood that feeling too well. “There’s no shame in admitting that. God, I see the way they look at each other and I hate them.” Thor chuckles. “I want someone to look at me that way and to love me as deeply as that. Which is good, because we are both deserving of loving and will one day meet someone who will love us with that depth of passion. Even a pane of glass between them and limiting their hours has been unable to diminish their feelings towards each other. ”

“There is Fandral.” Thor reminds her.

Gwen rolls her eyes. “No. He’s fun but…he’s not the kind of person that a woman could love forever. I'd want a husband who could be loyal to me.” She exhaled as she said. “Besides, we ended things.”

Thor straightened up and looked towards her. “Really?”

She kept her gaze forward. “Yes.”

“Why?”

she shrugged. “He met someone new.”

“Oh.” Thor exhaled as he said. “That’s Fandral, ever with a wandering eye.”

She nodded. “It was just a bit of fun. Everything up here…it’s all so breathtaking and amazing, but…I know it’s temporary.”

She inhaled as she stated for his benefit as much as hers. “As soon as Mara’s settled, I’ll be returning to earth and I doubt that our paths will ever meet again.”

There was a long silence until Thor asked. “Will I see you at the banquet tonight?”

“Yes. Mara’s already been complaining about it.”

He chuckled. “She and Loki, can throw tantrums when they chose.”

“Indeed.” She laughed and glanced at Thor. A mistake on her part. Those warm and soulful blue eyes spoke to her now, making it hard to look away. She cleared her throat and straightened up. “I must go now.”

“Same and I’m sorry about Fandral.”

She nodded. “Don’t be.”

And with that, she turned and walked away. She needed to talk to Mara about Loki keeping his mouth shut. Loki, had apparently sent for Fandral and told him that Thor was in love with her. She’d laughed it off until Fandral inquired if she had any feelings for Thor. Her denial wouldn’t have been believed by a baby; it was obvious. So, Fandral had backed off, leaving her open to once again get her heart broken by falling for the wrong man.

Chapter Text

“Loki?”

Loki instantly set down the book and looked up at the sound of Mara’s voice. He could not help but smile as he took in the sight of her. She was beyond gorgeous. She wore this black dress, clearly fashioned from Midgard that was sure to cause a stir at the banquet. Oh, she could make a statement. A princess, especially one playing a queen would never be seen in a dress as this. She wore those thin straps and a heart-shaped neckline. While the lace in the midriff area was semi transparent, the eye was drawn to the thigh-high slit on the dress. Mara had let her hair down and she was wearing his emerald pendant necklace and his ring on her finger. Tonight, they were announcing her engagement to Thor and she was showing just how unwilling she was to enter into that marriage. Black at an engagement party, was a beyond shocking statement.

Loki smiled at her. “Look at you.” she blushed. “Turn around, so I may see you fully.” She obliged him and revealed a corset-like back. Oh, he wanted to rip the dress off her. “You look utterly ravishing, my queen.”

“My queen?” She tucked her hair behind her ear as she sat down on the floor in her usual spot. “I like that.”

“Do you? I’ll keep that in mind.” He smiled down at her. “You look absolutely stunning.”

She smiled sadly as she explained. “I wore black because Odin forbade me to wear green. But, I wore this color so I could show off your gifts.”

“I’m looking at the greatest gift I ever beheld and I assure you, it’s not around your neck.” 

“God, the way you talk sometimes.” She sighs. “I wish you were going with me.”

He nods. “Yes. We’d make quite the couple walking into that banquet hall tonight.”

“Does your magic allow me to show you what you’d be wearing tonight? Your ceremonial robes?” He nodded and stood up. With a blink, his clothing changed. Mara stared at him, her mouth open slightly as he appeared in his ceremonial outfit. He wasn’t sure how she’d find the golden helmet with the horns atop his head, but he always liked the look. She shook her head in amazement. “God, just when I think you could never look more handsome, you go and prove me wrong.”

“Thank you.” He chuckles as he sits down besides her. “I assure you that you look a radiant sun and I’m the moon, likely to get sickened by your brilliance.”

She smiled as she said. "But the sun and mood need each other. Haven’t you heard?” 

“No, I have not pet. But if you say so, I’ve no cause to doubt it.”

When the sun loves the moon, he shakes his head in amusement as she sang softly. even the ocean feels their pull. He sits down beside her and casts a projection of a starry sky in his cell. Oh, when the stars align every night to spell out their love, in tiny bright light. Oh, when the sun loves the moon, she places her hand near the glass, faintly smiling at him. never touching but never far. Oh at the break of day, a summer’s ray. A moonlit night to cast away their love, remains, their love remains. as she vocalized some scales, Loki gently caressed the glass as if he were caressing her face. She shook her head in sad adoration. Oh when the sun loves moon. Her gold light, his silver hues. A beautiful song, oh, how they long for dawn.

“That was beautiful, I’ve missed hearing you sing, pet.” Loki said quietly. “I do not recall hearing that song before.”

“I believe,” she said softly. “I forgot to share it with you.”

“It was beautiful.”

“Enchanting.” Thor said, causing them both to jump. Thor grinned at Loki’s glower. “Hello there.”

“God, you move quietly for a large man.” Mara groused. “What are you doing down here?”

“No one could find you, so I figured you were down here.” She groaned as he helped her up. Loki’s blood bristled as Thor surveyed Mara. “You…are going dressed like that?”

“Yes.” Mara stated. “I will not go along with this farce Thor. I’m sorry.”

Loki could see that Thor wanted to argue but decided against it. “Alright, let us just finish this banquet. It’ll be much more fun than sitting on the floor.”

“I doubt it.” she huffed. “I would rather be sitting in silence with him than surrounded by people who care nothing for me.” 

“Banquets are fun,” Thor said. “there’ll be feasting, singing, dancing---

“No!” Loki half-shouted. He saw Thor ‘dance’ and he didn’t want Mara to have broken toes. “No dancing with her Thor! I don’t want her feet crushed!”

“Surely, one dance---

“I’ll not be dancing with anyone.” Mara stated calmly. “That is my choice.”

He exhales deeply. “You’re devoted to my brother, I’ll give you that. But surely one dance will not--

“Not until Loki is free.” She said. “Why would I allow others privileges that he himself is not allowed?” Thor had no answer for her. she exhaled. “Not one dance and we will enter the hall separately.”

He frowned. “I’m supposed to escort you inside.”

“I don’t care. I won’t give the wrong impression.” She folded her hands. “No slight against you, but I do not wish to make people think that we’re a couple.”

Thor swallowed and said quietly. “You are aware that tonight they---

“I am, best let them see our hearts aren’t in it.”

he’s silent for a moment. “In that case, we’re supposed to drink a toast to symbolize our union after the engagement is announced.”

“I won’t drink it.”

Loki spoke up. “It might be better if you were to throw it in his face.”

She stared at him. “Loki, I’m not terrible!”

“He has a point.” Thor said to their surprise. “As you said, best show our hearts aren’t in it. besides,” he grins at her. “pretend I’m Odin for a moment. It’ll be somewhat easy for you to do.”

“You’re a terrible older brother.” She laughs as she eyes him. “You’re not wearing anything that you’re fond of are you?”

he nods. “Aye, let me change my cape real quick.” Thor cleared his throat. “And the lady Gwendolyn was looking for you. She wanted your opinion on…something.”

“You cannot remember, brother?” Loki teased. “You’re so enamored that you cannot remember a single thing that comes out of her mouth?”

“Shut up Loki!” Thor half-barked, causing Loki to laugh at him. “I am no…whatever you said with her!”

“Enamored.” Mara explained. “Enamored is another word for attracted to.”

“Well, I am not attracted to Gwen either!” Thor snapped before saying in a slightly calmer voice. “I’ll be back shortly to collect you once I’ve changed.”

She nodded. “Fine Thor.” Mara turned back to Loki and exhaled. “I do not think this banquet will be a huge success.”

“I’m inclined to agree with you pet. You,” he drank his love in. “however, will certainly be the talk of the evening in such a gown.”

She shook her head. “I was told that I have to sing something to mark the occasion. They had me learning something all day today.”

Loki studied her green eyes, noting that they weren’t as green as he recalled. Mara’s eyes were changing. On Midgard they’d been violet, he remembered because they’d been unique. Then, around the time when they declared their feelings for each other, her eyes had turned to emerald green. Now, they were an almost coppery shade of brown. That was unique and he was certain that it had something to do with her powers coming full circle. Very little was known about silver elves and even less was known about their powers being restored to them.

“How’s your head?” He inquired. “Anymore migraines?”

“No.” Mara exhaled deeply. “As long as I stay in and I stay cool, all is well with me.”

He smiled. “I’m glad pet.” He decided not to mention her eyes changing. She was under enough stress tonight. No need to worry her. “I hope Frode didn’t test your patience with his teaching.”

She shakes her head as she said. “It was absolute torment, but his teaching was invaluable. But I will not be singing that song tonight.”

He chuckled. “And what will you be singing tonight?”

She held his gaze as she said. “Black is color of my true love’s hair.”

He went still and exhaled deeply. “Mara, you and cunning rivals my mischievousness at times. I greatly admire your courage to do such a daring thing in front of the whole kingdom. There will be repercussions by Odin.”

She nodded. “I know, but…I want to be with you.”

“And I with you.” He spoke in a lower voice. “We leave in 6 days.”

Her eyes widened. “Loki! How?”

“Have what you need packed and I will be there. At midnight, I will rouse you and we will leave this place.”

“And go where?”

he smiled. “There are many places that I know that they do not know. I can also hide us from Heimdall until we’ve broken the spell my mother has placed on you. But we will be together.”

Mara’s face beamed ad she whispered. “You’ve given me something to look forward to. I will be ready.” 

“Ready for what?” Gwen inquired, materializing out of nowhere. She wore traditional silver Asgardian gown with red robes. Ironic how Gwen was wearing Thor’s colors while Mara was in black.

“To see you dance with my big brother.” Loki explained. “I warned her, it’ll be an amusing sight.”

Gwen shook her head. “I am not dancing with Thor.”

“Why not?”

“I’ve yet to see him with a partner of his height and I told Mara I wanted her to relay as many of the details as she can recall to me.”

“Because if I were to dance with your brother it would lead to rumors and there’s enough swirling around. Besides,” Gwen shook her head. “you’re making quite the statement with that dress. So, I’ll not be adding more scandal to this evening.”  

“Spoken like a politician.” Loki said with a smirk on his face. “Very well. Mara intends to start some fireworks. Let’s see how you handle them.”

Gwen shakes her head. “No, she won’t be. She’s going to behave herself tonight.”

Mara looked at Loki and they both started laughing. Mara was going to be setting off fireworks, however, now Gwen would be viewed for her ability to negotiate. If she was able to handle this with grace…maybe Gwen winding up as Thor’s wife wouldn’t be such a huge stretch in the end.

Chapter Text

“Come on Mara,” Gwen encouraged. “smile a little bit. This is our first formal Asgardian banquet.”

“Which announces my doom.” Mara reminded her. “How can I smile about that?”

Gwen’s smile faltered and she turned to Thor who was approaching, having changed his one red robe into another red robe. “Are we to be escorted in or do we just walk in on our own?”

Thor blinked. “Ah, as a rule, I'd escort Mara in---

“Why don’t you walk Gwen in?” Mara suggested as she took a step away from Thor. “I shall stand by your other side and walk in unescorted.”

“It’s never been done before but,” he thought it through. “it shouldn’t matter.” He took Gwen’s arm and nodded at her. “You look lovely.”

“Thank you.” 

“Yes.” Mara nodded in agreement. “Red suits you. you look like a powerful goddess. In truth, you two make a more striking couple than Thor and I ever could.” Gwen laughed to hide her embarrassment and Thor shot her a look. “You’re also taller than me, which helps.”

Thor clears his throat. “You could take my other arm---

“I’m sorry Thor. I will not.”

Thor turned to Gwen as he inquired. “Is she always this stubborn?”

“Very.” Gwen said as she released his arm. “Perhaps I should walk beside you as well. That way, there’s no speculation as to which woman you’re betrothed too.”

Thor nodded and the doors to the banquet hall opened. Mara inhaled deeply, fighting down her nerves as all three of them walked through the crowded room to get to their table. Thor was hailed and praised throughout the room and surprisingly, so was Gwen. Gwen, had managed to befriend many people during Mara’s confinement. It was rather amusing to see them command the room while Mara invaded the room like a dark shadow. The black dress did its work for everyone was staring at her and whispering behind their hands. Odin and her parents had jumped to their feet in clear outrage, but Frigga managed to talk them down into their seats. They were beyond angry, but Mara didn’t care. She was going to fight this engagement to Thor and it was now more imperative than other. Not because of her love for Loki, but because Thor and Gwen needed a path that would guided them towards each other.

They were seated with Mara to Thor’s right and Gwen was on her right. Mara opened her purse, took the enchanted goblet from Loki and poured her wine into it. The goblet changed colors, tattling that her drink that been tampered with. She exhaled and poured the wine back into the original goblet before taking Thor’s glass of wine.

He frowned. “Hey!”

“Someone put a potion in my drink.” She said as she poured Thor’s wine into her glass. His brows rose and as predicted, the glass didn’t change this time. “Yours is safe to drink, for they wouldn’t drug you.”

Thor took her contaminated glass and looked at it. He looked towards his parents and shook his head in disapproval. He then signaled for a servant to come and take the glass from him. “I am sorry about that.”

“Why do they keep doing that?” Gwen asked. “They’ve already drugged her three times!”

“I believe,” Thor stated. “that they keep hoping that one will work.”

“And on the off chance that it does work, I will monitor all my drinks.” She said. “I will not take any chances.”

Dinner was pretty quiet for her. Thor and Gwen mostly talked with everyone around them while she concentrated on the food. Then, it became time for the entertainment, jugglers, dancers, magicians and then singers. Then Odin stood up and all went silent. She held her breath, knowing what was coming.

“We are gathered here,” Odin said “to celebrate the betrothal of Prince Thor Odinson to princess Runa from Nidavellir.” Everyone applauded with great enthusiasm, but their eyes betrayed confusion that their beloved prince was to wed a woman who turned up to her engagement in a black dress. “This union, was forged many years ago. At one point, the princess was lost to us until she was found by my son and returned to us.” Mara bit her lip as everyone applauded. Odin was a slippery bastard. He said ‘his son’ but while those who knew that, he was referring to Loki. Those who didn’t, would logically assume that it was Thor who found her. “Now, after Princess Runa has sung the engagement song of Nidavellir, we shall celebrate their upcoming nuptials. The wedding, shall be under the next full moon.” Everyone applauded and stamped their feet. Most likely, everyone was to drunk to understand anything more than another grand feast with the best wine would be availed to them. “And now,” Odin turned to her and directed. “the engagement song.”

she smiles, a simpering, malicious smile as she stands up. “As you wish.” 

With a smile, she stood up and moved towards the stage. She hated this, but she would do it. Her future was at stake and she had to. The musicians were poised, ready to begin and then she announced. “For clarifications sake,” everyone’s eyes bulged that she spoke before speaking. “I was rescued by Prince Loki. Not Price Thor.” She inhaled as she announced. “Nor will I be singing the engagement song of Nidavellir, for it is not my home. Midgard has been my home, so I will be singing a song from Midgard.”

 She could feel eyes on her as she inhaled and out of her mouth came. Black is the color, of my true love’s hair. That caused Thor, Frigga, Odin, Woodhake, Bafiela and all the warriors all to react. Gwen raised her glass to her in a silent salute. She inwardly smiled as she continues singing, their discomfort spurring her onwards. She ignored them and continued singing acapella. While she wasn’t accustomed to singing in public, her voice was light and clear and filled the hall. His lips are like some roses fair. He has the sweetest smile and the gentlest hands. And I love the ground whereon he stands. She turned slightly, looking pointedly at the royal family. I love my love and well he knows. The others shifted uncomfortably, but Frigga was the only one who held her gaze and didn’t shirk it. I love the ground whereon he goes. I wish the day, it soon would come, she played with the ring on her hand, drawing eyes to the beautiful ring on her hand and once again, there were hushed whispers in the hall. when he and I could soon be one. 

I go to the Clyde and mourn and weep. For satisfied I ne’er can be. She gently touched her neck, pining for Loki’s mouth on her skin again. I write him a letter just a few short lines. She looked at Odin as she sang this line. And suffer death ten thousand times. For black is the color of my true love’s hair.

With that, complete silence filled the hall. With Mara’s words beforehand, the song and the ring on her hand, it was very obvious to all that she’d declared her love for the ‘lesser’ prince and all eyes were furious. They were enraged that she prefer Loki to Thor, but dare not raise their voices to make an objection. She inhaled deeply as she turned and moved back to her seat. She sat down, her head held high and her elbows on the table so that her ring was prominently displayed. For a long time, no one spoke and then Odin stood up. All eyes went to him, but she ignored him.

“All will raise a glass,” Odin's voice reeked of barely held back fury. “and drink to my son and his future bride.”

Thor exhaled deeply, knowing what was to come. He stood up with his goblet and she stood up with hers. The rule was that she drink from his glass and he drink from hers, symbolizing their agreement to wed. She gave Thor an apologetic look as she threw her wine in Thor’s face. Everyone gasped in horror and outrage as she then threw the glass on the ground. Thor let out a sound as he wiped the wine from his eyes..

She stated firmly. “I said it once, I’ll say it again. I will not wed Thor Odinson!” Everyone gasped again as she pushed her chair back from the table, letting it dramatically fall behind her. “I am betrothed to Loki and will marry none other than him!”

And with that, she left the hall with her skirts billowing behind her like an angry blackbird. She went straight to the dungeon and to her relief, there was a new guard there. She decided to take a chance and ordered. “I am princess Runa of Nidavellir. Odin has ordained I could visit Prince Loki for an hour. Now, open the cell.” The guard did so without questioning her authority. Her heart rose in her chest as she crossed the threshold of the cell and stepped willingly into Loki’s waiting arms.

“Mara.” He breathed as he kissed her and held her close to him. “Norns, you look lovely.”

“Thank you.”

He exhaled. “I can’t believe that you did that. I am…unworthy of such love and devotion.”

She frowned. “What do you mean by that Loki?” she pulled away and saw that he was deeply moved. “Why would you not be deserving?”

“Because I am a monster!” he snaps out. “I inherit nothing and you’re a princess from the richest realm! When I do escape from here, I’ll have nothing to offer you. I am not good like him, nor do I intent do be. He is strong, I am weak. He is everything good that you write about and it doesn’t matter which universe, the villain never gets the girl. So, there is no way that I should have won you over him.”

“True, but you’re what’s known as the anti-hero.” She says gently as she caressed his face. “You’re not good, because something happened in the past made you into the character you are. But you’re not bad because you’ve been hurt and your anger is justified. And the anti-heroes are always the one the girls want. It’s a fact.” She leaned forward and kissed his neck. “Nothing like a good bad boy.”

He exhaled deeply. “Why do you say such things to try to make me into a better man than I really am?”

“it’s not my fault you don’t believe the truth.” She inhaled before asking. “And do you think I’d care about you inheriting the throne or not? Loki, I didn’t even know you were a prince until after we’d arrived at Asgard. I’d be happy spending the rest of my life in here with you because you’re the man I want. And trust me, you’re not weak, you’re strong in all the ways that matter to me. You’re extremely intelligent.” She places her hands on his shoulders. “I know, that because of your past you feel that you’re not good enough, or deserving of love. But you are, you’re more than enough for me…I want you far more than I can ever put into words. Please…don’t doubt my love for you, I beg you.”

“Don’t.” he cupped her face in his hands and kissed her lightly on the lips. “I’m sorry, don’t ever think that my love. I cannot think rationally when it comes to you and Thor.”

“Ugh, there is no comparison, believe me. I care for Thor as a sister cares for a brother.” She explained. “You owned me heart, body and soul before I even laid eyes on him. I desire no one but you.”

He studies her before asking. “What if I was to say I desire to have you underneath me now, my temptress?”

“You don’t have to ask me. I want you always.” She shifts slightly as he leans forward to kiss her neck. “But, Loki, people will see.”

He looks upward and nods. “Right.” With a flash of his hand, deep green curtains surround the walls of the cell, prohibiting anyone from seeing them. “And now?”

She doesn’t answer, she cups his face in his hands and kisses him deeply. He lets out a sound as he pulls her feet up onto the chaise and parts her legs. She wraps her legs around his waist as she breathes against his lips.  He breathes a few words and her dress is on the floor, she lets out a cry as he slides into her. She exhales as he says. “I think…the gods made you for me. Truly.”

“I know.” She kissed him and Loki resumed thrusting into her. They had one hour and they’d celebrate every moment they could share together.

Gwen smiled at Thor. “You took that very well.” She took her napkin and dabbed at a spot that he’d missed on his face. “That cannot have been easy.”

“Well,” he said with a faint smile. “she had a point. Make it abundantly clear that we feel nothing for each other. And maybe, the negotiations will be changed.”

“She did more than that. She nearly started a war.”

“She and Loki do suit each other.” He said as he sat back down. “They both have a flair for the dramatic.”

She laughs. “I’ve seen it. he seems so relaxed at times and then this…fire just comes out of nowhere from within him.”

“That’s the deceivement. He is conniving and volatile.”

She bites her lip before asking. “Is it possible that you’re still upset with him? I mean, he did try to kill you. I can imagine it must be hard for you to trust him again, no matter how much you want to.”

Thor exhaled as he admitted. “It is possible.” After a moment, he said. “I believe that father would be inclined to let Mara and Loki marry, if he were sure that Loki’s feelings were sincere. After all, Mara is the heir to all of Nidavellir and if Loki wed her,” he shook his head. “it could be chaotic if he were to get his hands on all the wealth and weapons.”

“But he didn’t know who he was,” Gwen reminded him. “and I assure you, Loki was very much in love with Mara on earth.”

“Loki is the God of mischief.” Thor stated. “He lies and plays tricks. There’s no way of knowing that he was sincere”

Gwen glowered at him and went to scold him, but they were interrupted by Mara’s biological parents. Her father, spoke first. “You!” he said sharply. “I am told that you were Runa’s friend on Midgard. Is this true?”

Gwen frowned and she felt Thor stiffen behind her. “Yes, but---

“Did that frost giant,” Bafiela inquired. “bite her?”

Gwen was unsure about this line of questioning. “I’m sorry?”

“Did he bite her?” Woodhake inquired. “She was rubbing her neck during the song. So tell me, did that frost giant bite her?”

“Uhm,” Gwen stammered as she looked towards Thor. “I-I know that he bit her a few months ago---

“By the gods,” Woodhake shouted, causing eyes to go to him. “must she always be so---

“Woodhake,” Odin said tightly. “calm yourself. I’m sure all is well.”

“No.” Woodhake shook his head as he moved towards Odin. “All is not well!”

when Bafiela moved away, she turned to Thor. “What does it mean?”

Thor exhaled as he said. “You should not have said that.”

“Said what?” she inquired. “I don’t understand what I did.”

Thor exhaled and bit out. “Frost giants, are different than us Asgardians. They bite their mates, binding them to each other for all eternity.”

“They mate for life?” Thor nodded. “And this is an issue why?”

“It explains,” Thor said lowly. “why all the potions have been rendered ineffective. There is only one way to break a frost giants mating bond.”

“What is it?”

Thor looked at her with blue eyes filled with dread and stated. “You don’t want to know.”

She blinks. “I do. What is it?”

After a long minute, Thor said the one word she didn’t hope to hear from his lips. “Death.”

Chapter Text

“How is it,” Loki asked lowly as he kissed her shoulder. “you get better each time we’re together?”

“Mhmm,” Mara murmured. “you’re just that good.”

Loki chuckled at those words. “You surpass me love. It’s a pleasure to attempt to keep up with you.”

“Flattery will get you anywhere.” She turned into his chest and exhaled deeply as he wrapped his arms around her. God, she loved this. Every time she and Loki were intimate, he always held her close to her. So close that she could hear his heart beating in his chest. It made her feel as if they’d become a part of each other. She closed her eyes before asking softly. “Can I see you?”

Loki let out an amused grumble. “Open your eyes and look then, silly woman.”

“As a frost giant.” He stilled at those words. She opened her eyes and looked up at him. He was now uncomfortable and she didn’t blame him. He hated that part of himself and this would be exceptionally difficult for him. “Please.”

Loki was silent for a long time before asking softly. “Why do you want to see me like that?”

“Because it’s the one part of you that you hide from me.” She reached up and stroked his face gently. “I love you Loki, you shouldn’t hide yourself from me.”

He shook his head, staring beyond her slightly. “If you see this side of me, you will run screaming from this cell and you will certainly wed Thor.”

“Why would I do that?” she inquired softly.

“Because I’m a monster.”

She bit her lip before hissing fiercely at him. “I swear,” he looks down at her surprised to see that she’s furious. “if you refer to yourself like that again, I will hit you!”

“Mara---

“Loki,” she inhaled as she sat up. He let out a grunt as he sat up with here. “I’m not one of these delicate Asgardian women that you’ve lived amongst. I-I have my scars, my demons, my past,” she inhaled as she exhaled sharply, blinking back tears. “God, you. You know what I’ve been through. You know that when compared to the others that I am dirty and ruined---

“Stop it Mara.” He said firmly. “Stop it. That wasn’t your fault.”

She held his gaze as she said. “Nor was you being born Jotun your fault.” He flinched at those words. “Loki… I’ve shared my demons with you and it hasn’t made you feel differently about me, has it?” he shakes his head. “Do you think…that I am so weak in my love for you that I'd be swayed by another side of you?”

He shook his head as he caressed her face. After a moment, he said. “How can you love a part of me…that I myself hate?”
She inhaled as she asked. “How could you love me…knowing that another man made me impure for you?”

He shakes his head as he pulls her close to him. “That doesn’t matter to me Mara. I'd have killed him if you’d let me.”

“Your being jotun doesn’t matter to me.” She said softly. “This…is one final wall that you keep up around me Loki. We said no walls. I can understand, you not being ready. But,” she inhaled as she looked at him. “I want to know all of you.”

Loki nodded. She could see his eyes debating for a moment and then he stood up. He was fully naked and she stared at his back for a moment. Then…his skin began to turn a rich shade of blue. She sat up, letting the blanket that she was wrapped in fall from her chest. Her eyes followed the lick of color from his ankles to his thighs, his waist and then it spread rapidly up his chest and arms. She noticed intricate and ancient markings all over his body.

This…was what he was scared of her seeing? This? Blue or not, this man looked as attractive as ever. His body was spectacular, even in blue. She could see the tension in his body, almost as if he were afraid that she would be afraid of him and reject him. She walked over to him, she placed her hand on his back, causing him to jump and inhale sharply. “Don’t touch me!” He said as he pulled away from her. 

“Loki, it’s ok.” She moved with him.

“It’s not ok. Mara, you can’t,” he turned towards her and she blinked a little at the sight of his red eyes, but she didn’t freak out. He shook his head. “you can’t….why would you even consider touching me?!”

she smiled at him. “You’re still the same man that I know. Nothing’s going to change the way I feel about you.”

He exhaled sharply as he said “I want to believe that…so much.”

“Give it time. You will believe me.” She stepped towards him. “I’m honored that you trust me enough to share this side of you with me.”

she leaned forward to touch him, but he shied away. “What are you doing? I just told you that you can’t touch me.”

“Loki, trust me.” 

“Mara, you can’t touch me like this.” He said firmly. “I’ll burn you and it will hurt.”

“Loki, I’ve already touched your hand and I’m fine.” She gently gripped his forearms causing him to inhale. Mara was expecting some kind of freezer burn sensation, but she didn’t. she felt a coolness travel through her hand as she stretched upwards, trying kiss him.

He was cautious. “Mara, what are you----

“Come here. You won’t hurt me.”

Loki hesitated before bending down to kiss her. she didn’t hold back, she cupped his face in her hands and even slipped her tongue in his mouth. Loki started against her lips, letting out a garbled sound as he grabbed her around the waist. Her body shuddered completely as she grabbed onto him. Her head spun and all she could hear was this drumming in her head. It wasn’t her heart, the beat was too fast, it was too strong. Whatever it was…it was all she was aware of. Even Loki seemed to face into the background as this pounding took over her being. She gasped and bucked her body against his. She needed something. She needed him. Something, an instinct of sorts made her arch her neck before him.

Loki reacted. With a snap, Loki bit her hard. Harder than he’d ever bitten her before and all went silent. She cried out, gasping for a moment as her body shook. Suddenly, Loki went stiff and he broke the kiss. She watched as his skin faded back to its normal tone. His face was turning white as he stared at her. “What did I do to you?”

She looked downwards at herself and realized that her body was a faint blue as if she absorbed his cold. She had markings similar to his, like she were jotun as well. However, she as much more pale. Almost like a faint gray-blue. It was surprising, but the color faded fast, barely giving her time to panic. Surprisingly, she wasn't scared of that revelation. She bit her lip before whispering. “I think.. I was made for you, whichever form you take.” She kissed him lightly, breathing against his lips. “I want you to take me.”

He hesitated before asking. “In that form?”

“Yes.” She breathed against his face. “No matter what form you take, I shall always love you, so desperately.”

He hesitated before taking them straight to the ground. She flushed as his green eyes carefully scanned her as if he could barely believe she wanted him still. “By the Norns…every drop of blood in me is screaming to take you so hard now.”

“Then do it,” she encouraged as she spread her legs open for him to get between them. “please, Loki.”

Oh, he was tempted. He was so very tempted to take her and complete the mating ceremony. But there wasn’t enough time to do it properly and he wasn’t going to start something that could be interrupted. So, he told her the truth. “Mara, this…your body isn’t reacting as it should to a frost giant’s touch. Let me do some research, that way I can ensure I don’t hurt you. Will you allow me that wish?”

Mara nods as she pulls him onto her. “As my king wishes.”

“Thank you.” he carefully positions her under him and holds her close with an exhale. “You look beautiful like this.” She pauses at the tone in his voice. “Wearing nothing but my ring,” he runs his hand down her hip. “your body warm, soft, glowing and responsive to my touch.” He slipped two fingers inside her, causing her to moan. “Never have I known another, whose body is solely made for me and my touch. God, your body is perfection.” 

“Loki, please.”

“Your waist is perfect for my arms. You fit perfectly against me. just touching you…excites me.” she let out a shuddering gasp as gripped her leg. “You’re a goddess.” He smiled faintly at her before biting the inside of her thigh. She let out a cry and bucked against his fingers. He grinned. “You crave my touch as much as I crave you; you cannot live without it.” she shook her head, not even bothering to deny that she didn’t feel that way about him. he withdraws his fingers and presses himself into her, wrapping her legs around his hips. She lets out a contented sigh as he kiss her. “I want to wake and see you like this every morning.”

“I like this.” She admits. “Your hands on me, as if your afraid to lose me. Your arms are always holding me close to you as if I’m the most valuable person in the world to you.”

“You are.” He assures her as he nipped her neck. “Close your eyes…and prepare to take me.”

“Yes, my love.”

“Loki?”  Mara and Loki groaned at the sound of Thor’s voice. 

“No.” Loki looks down at her as she shakes her head. “I don’t want to go just yet.”

He nods. “I know.”

“Loki?” Thor said urgently. “Loki, do not make me go in there! I do not wish to be blinded by whatever it is you’re doing in there!”

“Mara,” Gwen said. “it’s an emergency! Honest.”

Loki carefully withdrew from her and stood up. With a wave of his hand, they were both dressed. He reluctantly raised the barrier and crossed his arms. Sure enough, Thor and Gwen looked as if they ran from the banquet hall. “What is it?” he inquired.

“Her family is looking for her,” Gwen stated. “and it won’t be good if she’s found in your cell.”

“She’s not leaving me.” Loki said. “Just distract them---

“We can’t!” Gwen said as she said. “They know about the bite.”

Loki felt his blood go still. He then snarled. “What?”

Mara placed her hand on his shoulder. “Loki---

He didn’t look at her as he demanded. “Who told them?”

Gwen went pale and Thor spoke up. “It wasn’t a secret Loki.”

Loki glowered at Thor. “You told them, didn’t you?” 

Thor exhaled and said simply. “They asked.”

“Thank you, brother.” He said darkly before turning to Mara. “Look at me.”

“What,” he placed his hand on her neck and carefully cast an illusion hiding his mark on her neck. “Loki---

“When you leave,” he said. “they cannot see this. If they ask if I’ve bitten you, lie.”

Mara blinked. “Alright, but Loki---

Fandral suddenly appeared. “They’re coming!”

Thor exhaled and said. “She needs to get out of the cell. Now!”

The cell opened and Loki grabbed Mara, kissing her deeply before nudging her out of his cell. She shook her head. “Loki---
“It’s alright dark one.” He promised her as his heart pounded in his chest. “We’ll be together soon.”

She shook her head. “I don’t understand. What is wrong?”

She stepped off the step, tripping slightly, causing Thor to catch her. Loki chuckled. “Do help her brother…she may have difficulty walking.”

Mara shook her head. “Thank you for the commentary Loki, it’s not at all embarrassing!”

“Apologies my love.” He chuckled at her. he turned towards Thor and his face grew dark and serious. “Get her out of here. Now.”

“But---

“Now!!”

Thor nodded and picked up Mara. Mara let out a shriek that tore at his heart as Thor went to escort her out of the room. However, six guards suddenly surfaced. Loki drew himself upright as Thor asked. “What’s the meaning of this?”

“The allfather has ordered that the princess Runa be escorted to the council hall immediately.”

Loki’s heart jumped in his chest as he warned. “Thor---

“I’ll escort her there myself.” Thor said. “She is under my protection.”

One of the guards nodded. “Still, we shall follow.”

And with that Fnadral, Thor, Mara and Gwen left with the guards. This wasn’t good. He could feel it in his bones. He’d have to escape with Mara tonight. She was still bound, but he could find a way to break that spell. He grabbed his stack of books and began flipping through them, tearing out all the important pages that’d help him with the spell. However, he got sidetracked by the section describing suppressed jotun abilities. 

Suddenly, his cell opened and there stood four guards with chains. Loki drew himself upright as Sif approached, a smile on her face. “You, have been summoned as well.” She sneered. “Your games have come to an end…trickster.”

He couldn’t help but smile at those words. Yes, the games were coming to an end. The problem was that they didn’t know that Loki was still one stacking the cards against them. The games would end tonight. He and Mara would be free from Asgard and all the madness that surrounded them.

He nodded as he said. "Lead the way Sif."

Chapter Text

“Did you really just have relations with my brother?” Thor bit out as they walked along the corridor.

Gwen stiffened and said. “Is that really necessary---

“Did you?” he demanded lowly.

“I’m not your wife, Thor.” She says firmly as she looked ahead. “I belong to your brother and you will never own me.”
“I do not wish to own you.” He stated. “I wish you’d show me some respect by---

“You know that I do not love you. You know that I love your brother and he loves me.” She says pointedly as she hisses. “You should respect that fact, do not demand things from me that I cannot give you. Why restrain ourselves from being with the ones that we truly love?”

“Because if we are forced to marry,” he stated. “I expect that we honor our marriage vows and you not make a fool of me!”

“Well, prepare to be made a fool of! I do not expect you to be faithful to me.” Thor stilled and glowered down at her. “Thor, I belong to your brother and always will. Would you have me betray the bond between Loki and I?” She holds up her hand to show the ring. “You know what this means and symbolizes. I’m faithful to him and him alone.”

Thor was silent before asking him. “So, it will truly mean nothing to you, were we to marry? You will carry on in this fashion still?”

“Yes.” She shook her head. “I’m sorry Thor, you’re truly a good man and you deserve to be loved, but you will not find it with me!”

“There you are!” Woodhake shouted the moment they walked into the council room. Frigga, Odin, Bafiela and a guard were there as well. “Where were you?”

“It’s alright.” Thor said calmly, trying to diffuse the situation. “I found her outside my brother’s cell, talking to him.”

Woodhake studied her and then turned to the guard and stated. “You! Give your report!”

“She tricked one of the new guards into gaining entrance to his cell.” The guard said. “She has been in there since she left the banquet hall. I let her out of the cell myself.”

Odin's eyes flashed as he looked at Thor. “Is this true?”

Mara spoke up to spare Thor the inconvenience of having to answer. “He is my fiancé. I’ve a right to be with him.”

“You are betrothed to Thor Odinson!” he snapped at her.

“I seem to recall stating very plainly at the banquet tonight that ‘Black is the color of my true loves hair’. Thor doesn’t have black hair. Loki does.”

“You will stay away from him.”

“No.” She holds up her hand revealing the ring. “This symbolizes that Loki and I are committed to each other. I’m not leaving him, ever.”

“She may not be able to leave him.” Bafiela stated as she looked to Frigga. “Look to her neck. See if he’s enchanted her to hide his mark.”

Odin's eyes flashed. “The jotuns mating bite!” he looked to her. “Did he mark you?”

Now, Mara began to feel uneasy a little bit, but she said. “Whatever Loki has or hasn’t done with me, was done with my permission.”

Odin jerked his head towards her. “Frigga.”

Frigga gave her an apologetic look as she touched Mara’s neck. She inhaled as the enchantment faded. Frigga nodded before saying. “Yes. There is a mark.”

“Damn it!!” Woodhake bellowed in fury. 

“I will see to it that he is moved to solitary confinement.” Odin said. “They’ll not see each other again.”

“It’s not a matter of keeping her away from him, she can’t be kept away from him.” Woodhake stated. “She’ll go mad!”

“I’ve had enough of you and your orders!”  Mara shouted furiously, causing Odin to start in surprise. “You play people as if they’re puppets. You pull the strings and you expect everyone to dance to your tune! I will never marry Thor, you f**king monster!!”

“Enough! Get out of my sight!”

“Or what?” she demands. “You’ll have me killed? Thrown in the dungeon? As if any of that scares me!”

“BE SILENT!” Odin shouted as he whirled around fury on his face. “There will never be a future for you and Loki. I will never allow it!”

“I will never stop fighting for it!” Mara shouts. “You can offer me all the stars in the skies, offer me towers of gold and to possess all the riches of the realms and I will still sit outside of his cell because he can still offer me more than anyone else!” 

Odin shook his head before saying. “Then you bring this upon your own head.”

She frowned. “What does that mean?”

“Allfather,” Frigga said softly. “please. Do not make a rash decision---

“She and Loki have forced this issue.” The doors behind them creaked. “What happens now to him, will be because of her.”

The sound of chains caused them to spin around.. Mara gasped as Loki was dragged in. his eyes scanned the room, falling on her and Thor. he turned to Thor and again, spoke in Asgardian. Thor took ahold of her shoulders, causing her to jump. “Don’t touch me!” She shouted.

“Loki asked me to hold onto you.” He said.

“Don’t.” She inhaled, her heart beginning to pound. “What’s going on?”

Thor shook his head. “I don’t know.”

“Loki Laufeyson,” Odin said firmly. “you are hearby sentenced to death,” Mara’s world fell out from under her at those words. “for various acts of treason against the crown.”

Loki stared at Odin in shock. “What are you saying?”

Odin continued as if he hadn’t heard him. “You’re to be executed immediately.”

“What?!” Mara screamed in shock as her whole world fell apart. “No!!”

Frigga shook her head and shouted at him. “You cannot be serious!”

“I am.” Odin said firmly. He nodded as the executioner with the biggest ax she’d ever seen in her life came in the room!

“Loki is our son!”

“Father,” Thor said firmly. “you cannot be---

“Yes, I am!” He declared. “Once Loki is dispatched, the wedding will resume without issue.”

Mara shook her head, her heart pounding in her ears. “I won’t marry---

“Then you will watch him die.” Mara stared at Odin, tears running down her cheeks as her brain began to catch up to what was happening. “Or,” he held his hand up staying the executioner for a moment. “you swear here and now to marry Thor and I’ll return Loki to his cells. You won’t see him again…but he will live.”

Mara stared at him before turning and looking at Loki. She covered her mouth, her heart breaking in her chest as she tried deciding which decision she could live with. Loki, however spoke for her. “Mara, it’s alright.”

She shook her head. “No, it’s not.”

“Mara,” he assured her gently. “it is. I give you,” he swallowed hard. “permission to make your decision. Whichever one you decide…it will be ok.”

she stared at him and shook her head as her heart broke. “You know, I can’t marry Thor, Loki.” She hiccuped. “I swore, I'd only marry for love and I love you!”

“It’s alright.” He assured her, his eyes silently telling her to trust him in this moment. She didn’t know what he had up his sleeve, but it was Loki. “It’s alright.”

“So be it.” Odin nodded at the guards. “Take him.”

Gwen grabbed Thor’s arm. “You can’t let him do this! He is your brother!”

Loki looked towards Thor as the guards forced him to his knees. “Get her out of here! I don’t want her to see this!”

“Odin,” Frigga begged. “please, don’t do this to our son---

“He is not, our son.” Mara struggles against Thor who tries dragging her out of the room. “He never was!”

“You’re not like your father!” Gwen said as she grabbed Thor’s arm, holding his gaze. “You’ve seen the change, you know there is good in him.” Mara broke free from Thor’s grasp. “You know if you let him kill your brother that you will never forgive yourself! It will torment you for thousands of years! You only have one brother!”

Loki looked up as Mara ran for him and shouted. “Get her out of here! Mara, stop!”

“I won’t leave you!”

“Thor!” Loki shouted. “If you ever loved me as a brother, spare her this!”

“Allfather!” Frigga shouted. “I pray, you hold your temper!” 

The sword brought the sword up over his head and Mara screamed. “NO! DON’T, DON’T, PLEASE, PLEASE!!!” 

Odin stood up from his throne and raised his staff. When he brought the staff down, the order would be carried out. Mara threw herself on Loki, covering his body with hers. She placed her chin on his shoulder and wrapped her arms around him as best as she could. 

Loki’s chained hand found hers and gripped her tightly. “Mara, what are you---

Odin held up his hand, stopping the executioner for the moment. “Hold!” he ordered. “What are you---

Suddenly, the executioner landed flat on his back, struck in the chest by Mjolnier! Odin turned to Thor in shock, but that shock changed when they saw icicles in the man’s heart! He’d been killed by ice…not Mjolnier. Sif drew her sword and barked an order at another guard to get more guards.

“KILL ME!” Everyone in the throne room jumped in shock at her words. She inhaled shakily as she stated, tears running down her cheeks. “If you kill him, you’ll have to kill me too!”

Odin studied her as Mara risked a look at Loki. He was staring at her, panic, concern and love for her in his eyes. The guards had spears pointed towards his back but they weren’t daring to move because of the icicles. Her heart was pounding in her throat and the tears were running down her face, splashing to the floor. “Oh, my beautiful, mad, dark girl.” He said softly. “What are you doing?”

“Saving your life.”

 “So,” Odin said in a calculated manner. “you’re willing to give your life for him?”

she nodded. “I am.”

“Mara,” Loki said firmly. “my love, don’t do this. Please.” He looks to Odin. “Will you at least let her return to Midgard?”

“No!” she stated. “I won’t leave you!”

“I love you Mara,” he said. “but I will not see you executed beside me!” 

she shook her head. “I’m not going to abandon you.”

“Mara, I’m giving you my blessing! Please, take it!”

Mara looked to Odin. “If you resume his execution, I shall ensure there will be no alliance.” She can tell from the look in his eyes that Odin doesn’t believe her, so she draws a dagger from her purse and places the blade to the side of her throat. “Think carefully.”

“Mara!” Loki shouts. “Stop!”

“Don’t!” Gwen lunged for her, but Thor caught her. “This has gone far enough! Stop it now!”

“Father, enough!!”

“Stay your hand!” Frigga ordered. “The guards won’t harm him! I will not permit this!” Odin glowered at her. “I will not see her die because you threaten Loki! Stop this madness.”

Odin glowered at her. “You dare make such a demand?”

“I do. Now give me your word!”

Odin shook his head as he said. “I make no such deal with those who attempt to hold me hostage to make me bend to their will.”

“The frost giant must die”! Woodhake proclaimed. “It’s the only way to severe the bond!”

Loki carefully got to his feet, pulling her upright as he said lowly.  “Mara, put the dagger away. Please.” She inhaled and looked at him. He stared through her as he said. “Trust me.” God, she wished that she knew what he was doing. Reluctantly, she put the dagger back in her purse and exhaled deeply. He shook his head. “You shouldn’t have done that.”

“You didn’t ask me to. I want to be with you.”

“Extraordinary,” Odin said slowly as he studied them. “he gives you permission to marry and you turn it down, preferring to join him in death.”

She nods. “You kill him…and I swear that I will follow him within that very hour. I swear it on his heart.”

Odin comes down off his throne, surveying them. He studies her closely as he asks. “You’d give up your life for him, a frost giant?” Mara nodded. 

“He couldn’t give you children, decent children, that is.” Bafiela stated. “They’d all be little half-breeds, useless to all future descendents of the throne!”

“They’d be our children,” she snaps. “not yours. And unlike you, we’d love our children. And what makes you think I’d let my children anywhere near you after this?”

“Have you seen him in his true form?” Odin waved his hand, causing the spell to lower and reveal Loki as a frost giant. 
She looked towards Loki and smiled at him. “Is that supposed to have any effect on my love for him?”

“He’s a monster. Don’t bother to deny it.”

“The only monster I’ve ever known is you.” Odin who was stunned. Mara placed a hand on Loki’s waist before looking back at Odin. “Loki is the man I love, he always will be. I love him regardless of what form he takes.”

Odin is silent before stating. “This is the spell that I told him not to place on you.”

“He didn’t---

“Silence!” Odin ordered. “Say your good-byes. Tomorrow, Loki will be taken and transported to Muspelheim,” Mara shook her head. “he will not be harmed. But clearly, allowing you two to visit with each other has only allowed you two to grow closer. This…bond between you two, will lessen once they’re far apart.” 

“Muspelheim is on the other side of the universe!” Thor stated. 

“The bond must weaken and then break.” Odin said. “Or would you prefer that I take his head?”

“Please,” Gwen begged patiently. “might this not be discussed tomorrow?” Odin shook his head. “This has been a hard night and it is my fault that everyone is upset. Things may look differently tomorrow.”

“It will not be different!” Bafiela stated. “I will never allow my daughter to marry one of those monstrous frost giants.”

Loki glanced at Bafiela before stating. “I don’t suppose you’d allow us to marry before I’m sent off.”

“No!”

“Worth a try.” He nodded at her. “Come here, you foolish woman.”

“I told you before,” she tilted her face upwards. “don’t doubt my devotion to you. I will have and marry no one other than you.”
“I promise, never to doubt you again after this.” As he pulled her close, he whispered. “Stay close to me.”

Suddenly, a blast of energy came from him, sending the guards and Sif flying backwards! Loki’s chains snapped and flew across the room! Thor lunged forward, but Gwen pushed Thor back with such force she snapped her wrist. She screamed and grabbed at her hand which was clearly broken. Thor glanced at Gwen before throwing Mjolnier at Loki and then….time stopped.

There was a whining sound, like an engine being trapped.

Mara looked at Mjolnier. It was….pushing against her hand, trying to get past her, but failing to do so. Her hand was blue, glowing a vibrant shade of blue and she felt as if she were glowing. She looked down…and saw that she was indeed glowing. She felt this fire starting at her feet and moving upwards. She turned towards Loki, he was staring at her in shock, his green eyes growing wide with each passing second.

“What’s happening to her?” Bafiela shouted. “What has he done?!”

she didn’t know or understand. She looked and long streams of ice were flowing from her hands. It had been her, not Loki, who’d killed the guard. From the look on everyone’s faces, it was clear that they knew she was the danger. The worst part was, she didn’t even know what she was doing! These powers, they’d come out of nowhere and they were volatile and angry. 
Loki stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her, wincing at the glow coming from her. “We have to go! Now!”

And just like, Loki whisked her out of the palace into the dark unknown.

Chapter Text

Gwen’s hand was broken, she could tell. She cradled it with her other hand as tears of pain and happiness poured down her cheeks. “They got away! Oh,” Thor turned to her and those blue eyes of his flashed. “thank God they got away.”

“You’re hurt.” He said as he approached her.

She shook her hand. “I’m fine.” Thor took ahold of her hand and she couldn’t stop herself from crying out sharply at the pain. Thor let go instantly and looked at her hand. “I’m alright.”

“No,” he said patiently. “you’re not.”

“Allfather,” Sif said as she got up from where she’d been thrown across the floor. “I’ll assemble the guards and the warriors. You say that she’s bound to Asgard. So she cannot leave Asgard. Thor and I will---

“No.” Thor shook his head. “No, I will not go out and search.”

“How dare you!” Woodhake said. “My daughter has been taken by that monster---

“Enough!” Thor shouted, causing all to still and stare at him. Gwen, she couldn’t help but smile a little. Thor had finally had enough of this and decided to speak up. “I’ve had enough of this farce!” he inhaled. “The lady loves my brother and I am glad of it. I will not pursue them. Send your men, but I will not join them.” 

“Allfather,” Bafiela said. “command him to go!”

she inhaled as all eyes went to the allfather and Frigga. To their surprise, they were both in a calm and quiet discussion. “Did you see that?” Odin asked Frigga, who nodded. “Her powers, they are…like a frost giant.”

“I noticed.” Frigga said. “Most unusual for an elf of her capabilities.”

Bafiela frowned and asked. “What are you talking about?”

Frigga shook her head. “I’m a witch, I can see the future. So when I saw Mara wielding ice and an altered appearance of blue skin and red eyes,” everyone inhaled at those words. “I began to wonder what had been wondering if she were truly an elf or mortal.”

“And as we witnessed,” Odin said. “she isn’t. At least, not entirely.”

“What are you talking about?” Woodhake demanded.

“Your daughter,” Odin pointed out. “is the one who killed the guard. Not Loki.”

Everyone jumped. “What?” Woodhake shook his head as his face grew pale. “You’re mistaken.”

“I assure you,” Frigga said. “we’re not mistaken. I watched Loki very carefully and he didn’t kill the guard.”

“Hold on,” Gwen asked. “was this whole thing…a set up?”

Odin frowned. “It was a plan to force Runa into revealing her powers. She’s been suppressing them, but, with the reveal of the mating mark, that formed more questions.”

“When a frost giant bites,” Frigga said. “it turns the blood of whom they’ve bitten into ice. Mara, was mortal at the time. She shouldn’t be alive right now. Now, it's unclear if he's bitten her once---

"He's bitten her many times." Gwen admitted. "She...told me when she doesn't see him for long periods of time, that mark begins to ache."

Frigga nodded. "A frost giant will yearn for their mate. That explains why they are so...passionate with each other, for lack of words."

“So, that left us to wonder why and how.” Odin said calmly. “Stress, triggers powers as we saw and the only thing that would trigger her, would be putting Loki in danger.”

Thor and Gwen jolted. “What?” Thor demanded. “This whole thing…was a plot?”

Odin nodded. “Yes.”

Gwen’s eyes bulged. “You were going to kill him!!!”

“No,” Odin said. “Loki was never in any danger. We needed Runa to believe the danger was real and to react accordingly. Which she did.”

“When she ran towards Loki,”” Frigga said. “she reached out and the ice came from her hand. Loki was kneeling on the ground, impossible to hit the executioner in the chest. Now, silver elves have the ability to cast spells, but they have to be trained. Mara, showed frost giant powers.”

There was a long moment of silence and then Bafiela said. “She was with that frost giant---

“No. That’s not possible that Loki did anything to her.” Woodhake shook his head at Frigga's’ words. “It’s impossible for one to take on the powers of another. Her energy…it was pure frost giant. No elf traits at all.” Frigga studied them and asked. “Does Mara…have any frost giant in her?”

“And if so,” Odin inquired. “how did she get those powers and what trickery is afoot here?”

“N-none allfather.” Bafiela said, her face growing pale. “P-perhaps when she was taken….when she lost her powers something happened.”

“We shall see.” Odin said. “I will ask that Eir examine the test results from Runa a bit more closely to see if there were anything linking her to Jotunheim.”

“It’s impossible.”

“We’ll see.”

Thor inhaled as he said. “Father, I shall tell Eir, once I’ve taken the lady Gwendolyn to be healed. Her hand is shattered.”

Frigga's’ eyes widened as she said. “Take her quickly. Eir will have to move fast to avoid any complications.”

“It’s fine.” Gwen assured him. “I’m sure it’s not,” next thing she knew she was in Thor’s arms and he was carrying her swiftly towards their medical chambers. “I’m alright.”

“No you’re not.” He said. “Stop being so stubborn.”

“You’re one to talk!” she snapped at him. He, however, like the every friendly giant that he was, remained silent until they were nearly there. “God!” she said loudly, surprising him for a moment. “It all makes sense now!” 

“What does?” Thor inquired.

“Her migraines…they’re all heat related! She can’t take the heat! And Loki…he’s cold-blooded, so I can imagine that’s why he felt so comforting towards her. She said for the longest time that his touch was so soothing and calming for her.” Thor kicked the doors to the chambers opened and there was Eir. “Her hand is broken, she hit me it and is shattered.”

“Good grief.” Eir said as she gestured for him to lay her down on the table so Eir could examine her. “These mortals are more complicated than you and your brother ever were!”

“Well,” Gwen exhaled as she laid back and let Eir examine her hand. “at least it’s a break from working on Asgardians.” She exhaled and looked at Thor. He gave her a faint smile and she couldn’t help but smile as she said. “They got away.”

He nods. “Yeah, they did.”

“Do you think that Sif will find them?”

he shook his head. “No. Loki knows how to hide himself and I’ve no doubt that he will shield Mara.”

She nodded as she said. “Well, you and your family have wondered if he wants Mara or if he’s using her to escape. If he chooses to escape, you’ll find Mara.”

He nods. “Yes, we will.”

She studied him a moment and then asked. “Did you know that they were going to do this?”

“No.” He shook his head. “It appears to be a spur of the moment decision that they concocted together.”

“It worked, but…it was cruel of them to do so.”

He nodded as he said. “This isn’t Midgard. Things, are done differently here.”

“I know.”

“Your wrist is broken.” Eir said, breaking up the conversation. “Your thumb is broken and your index finger is fractured. It’ll take a week at least for it to heal.”

Gwen exhaled and said. “Do what must be done.” Eir took ahold of her broken wrist and Gwen shouted, grabbing ahold of Thor’s arm. He reached over and grabbed her uninjured hand. She inhaled and bit her lip as Eir wrapped her hand. “Talk!!”

Thor blinked. “W-what about?”

“Anything to get my mind off the pain!!”

“Eir,” he said. “can you not give her something?” Eir nodded and got up. She exhaled hotly and blinked back tears. “You’re doing good.” Thor assured her as he ran his hand through her hair, causing unwanted chills to run down her spine. “We forget at times that you have pain.”

She exhaled sharply as she said. “Thank you, for asking.”

“No trouble.”

The door to the chambers opened and Sif came in. She glowered angrily at Thor before saying. “We’re leaving to go after them. Thor, we will need you---

“No.” He shook his head and didn’t look up.

“Thor,” she approached him. “we have to find her. She is a danger---

“Loki’ll handle her and her powers just fine.” Thor said. “If anything, he’s best equipped to handle Mara right now. Best to leave them alone.”

Sif shook her head as she said. “It’ll take months to find them.”

“Then so be it!” He said. “I am not chasing my brother.”

“He’s not your brother!” Sif said.

Those words caused Thor to jump to his feet. Gwen turned on her side to get a better look at him. “Have a care Sif, Loki is still my brother. I will not go hunt him down for wanting to be with the woman that he loves. You want to hunt him down, go on ahead. I will not join.”

Sif shook her head as she said. “If she put you up to this…you will regret it.”

Thor just stared Sif down and watched until she walked out of the room. He exhaled and leaned over her as Eir returned with the painkiller. A quick shot in Gwen's hand and she felt nothing.

She exhaled and relaxed as Eir began to wrap her hand. After a long time, Thor shook his head and asked. “Why did you do that?” 

She frowned. “Do what?”

“Hit me like that. You broke your hand.”

After a long moment of silence, she admitted. “So, you didn’t have to bring them back.” He looked at her with those puppy dog eyes of his and she inhaled sharply. “I know, this must be tearing you apart. You want to continue honoring your father, but Loki is also your brother. Your priority is always to your parents. Loki, is your brother in your heart. This way, Odin could only reproach me. not you, you’re in the clear.”

He was silent for a long time before saying. “Thank you.”

“I’d be lying if I didn’t say I did it for all three of you. if they can get away from this…it’s better for all involved.”

“Yes.” After a long pause he asked. “Where do you think they are?”

“No idea.” She sighed. “Mara said that Loki knew hundreds of places to hide, much like that cave.”

Thor nodded. “I believe it. Loki, he’d go off for hours at a time, no one could find him. Even Heimdall.”

“And now,” she said softly. “he’s going to use every single one of those places to hide.”

He nodded and then said with an innocent exhale. “Well in that case, Sif may be looking for years.”

Gwen couldn’t help it, she started laughing. Thor shook his head as he looked down at her. Then he started laughing, a real, honest, deep and genuine laugh. She couldn’t help but smile back at him. He was always so sober faced and penitent that it was nice to see him with a smile on his face. She only wish that his smile would stay on his face.

Chapter Text

Loki wasn’t surprised that he and Mara landed underneath the valpunain tree. He knew that the others would look for him and Mara. However, they were far enough away that it would take them time and very few people knew their way here. He turned to Mara and spotted her lying on the ground gasping for air. He put all thoughts of their escape on hold. Mara, his mate was in distress and she needed his help. She shook her head as he approached her, clearly concerned for his safety. 

“It’s alright.” He assured her as he knelt beside her, the leaves of the Valpunain tree falling around them. “It’s just your magic coming alive after being dormant for so long.” She stretched out her hand towards the water and a long stream of ice flew from her hand. His brow arched as he said. “And how utterly fascinating it is.” He reached out and touched her face and those eyes of hers flashed red. “Very much like you.”

“H-help m-me.”

“I’m doing that.” He assured her. “I need you to try and breathe Mara. This, is the first of many stages for you and some of them,” he looked upwards at the sky. “because it’s a full moon tonight, will be beyond exhausting for you.”

She shook her head. “N-no.”

“I’m sorry.” He ran his hand through her hair. “This has to be done.” Loki conjured up some thin gold ropes and tied her hands together. He then threw them over a branch and signaled for his magic to pull her to her feet. Her eyes were a blaze of red. “This…will help to open your lungs more. It’s very frightening to feel so much magic pulsing through you. And you, you always forget to breathe when you’re frightened.”

She whined and grabbed ahold of the gold ropes, turning them blue. “W-we can’t stay.” She rasped as she tried to pull away, but his magic was strong enough to hold her. “They’re coming.”

“I know, I know.” He said as he stepped behind her. “But very few people know where we are and the guard who flew us here, is dead. So, it’ll take them time to get here.”

She inhaled as she whispered. “I-I killed him.”

He kissed her purple cheeks as he said quietly. “A mere accident my dear, I assure you,” he began to unlace the back of her black corset. “my death for him would have been way more painful.”

She inhaled. “W-what are you doing?”

“Helping you breathe.” He said as he unlaced her dress, letting it fall to the forest floor. He looked up, the sky wasn’t clouded, but the moon needed a moment to come out fully from behind the mountain. “You’ll get your powers in a minute.” He looked at her, surveying her fantastic form. She wore no bra, just a pair of lace panties that hung low on her waist. He shook his head as he removed his shirt. “Norns, you are exquisite.”

She whined. “Loki, why are you---

“You’re a silver elf, your powers are going to be activated by the moon.” He explained. “It’s a full moon tonight.”

“Naked.” She rasped. “W-why am I---

he exhaled hotly as he looked at her. “I already claimed you. Tonight’s the night, that you claim me as your mate.” She let out a sharp sound and clenched her legs together at those words. “Your body is feeling the changes that it’s going through.” He shook his head before admitting, “I don’t know why you’ve shown frost giant powers, but…I can help you with your elf powers. Do you trust me?”

she nods as she whimpers out. “It hurts.” He nods as he steps towards her. She backs away or attempted to because she couldn’t break the ropes. “Don’t.”

“Mara.”

“I don’t want to hurt you.”

He shakes his head as he assures her. “You can never hurt me.” On cue Mara sends down a spray of icicles from her bound hands, which were aimed up at the tree. She let out a whine of despair. She must feel as if she’s internally being burned alive as her powers battled it out in her veins. Frost giant and silver elf was a strange mix but luckily, they were both nocturnal, cold blood beings. He removed Mara’s underwear, causing her to arch her hips towards him. He nodded as he surveyed her exquisite body. “Close your eyes and breathe. Once your powers have taken over you, I will claim you.” She looked at him, tears trickling down her cheeks. “Just before you climax, you have to claim me.”

“Loki---

“It’s a full moon and you’re being reborn. You’ll be at the peak of your powers as soon as you break your bonds.” She rolled her eyes and he nodded. “I know, but this is important Mara.” He looked up as the moon finally came around the mountain. He exhaled and turned to her. “Here it comes, Mara. Let it happen.”

She heard Loki’s words but they weren’t making sense to her. Every single inch inside her was burning and chilling her. She could swear that she could trace her veins of blood. Loki had stripped her naked and he was going to claim her at some point. He kept talking to her, trying to calm her down but there was this buzzing that was filling her ears. She closed her eyes and tightly grasped the ropes above her head. She didn’t know what Loki had bound her with but they were strong.

Suddenly, this strange sensation, like a wave began flowing through her body. It burned her woman and she nearly fell to her knees. Loki was there, hard and ready to take her the moment came. God, she wouldn’t want sex after this transformation! It was painful and Loki, he was always tricky to take. She tried to speak but words couldn’t form. she moaned pitifully as the sensation continued upwards towards her lungs and heart. A glance down showed that her skin had transformed to the similar shade of blue that Loki had when he was in his frost giant form. She looked at him. He was blue and terrifying in his frost giant form. Suddenly, she was hit with a sharp pang internally. A pang so sharp that her heart rate and breathing slowed down immediately. 

Suddenly, she threw her head back as this light erupted from within her, causing her to feel a rush. And with this rush, the light inside her broke free and filled the night sky. Loki took a step back, looking upwards as Mara’s powers broke the ropes that Loki had used to restrain her. The light around her, it was an angry blue at first until she looked at the bright moon. Nearly instantly, the color shifted to a mint glow. She gasped for air, trying to find a mental calm as her body went through these rapidly changing paces. Her head, which had been killing her, suddenly stopped throbbing. She felt this calm, peaceful cool fills her as her skin began to glow white. Not just white, but like an opal with multiple colors underneath. The mint glow stayed around her body like the outer flame of a candle.

“Goddess of devotion.” Loki said from behind her, causing her to turn towards him. She felt dazed as he surveyed her with a look of wonder on his smiling face. “There hasn’t been one in Asgard for hundreds of centuries. You’re a rare prize indeed, my love.” 

She inhaled, now finding the words. “Loki…what happened?”

“You came full term to your powers.” He explained. 

She blinked and asked quietly. “W-why am I naked?”

He chuckled. “Because, I need to claim you now, bind us deeper.”

“What?” Loki attacked her. “Oh! Loki!” she cried out as he took her to the wet ground. “Wait! Please!”

“I can’t, pet.” He got on top of her and spread her legs wide, his green eyes a mix of emerald and neon green. “You’re at the height of your Luna cycle, the most powerful you’ll ever be. I claimed you…now you have to claim me. This has to be done tonight or we wait until next year.”

She shook her head. “I can’t. Loki---

He thrust into her. Hard. Hard enough that she screamed as he tore her in two. He’d been holding back, she’d known that because she was mortal. Now, he could take her without fear of hurting her. She didn’t know what happened to her body, it felt as if she’d become much more frail and delicate as an elf. Or perhaps Loki’s frost giant side was reacting to her, she didn’t know what was going on. All she knew was that something had changed and Loki could barely force his cock into her. 

“Mara,” he assured her. “I have to do this. It’s important.”

“Loki,” she whimpered. “I’m so tired.”

“Forgive me for this pet.” Loki cupped her neck with his other hand. “Concentrate on me, focus on me. focus on the pleasure.” She moaned weakly. “Focus on how we’ll have each other for thousand of years now.”

She let out a whine and closed her eyes, letting Loki take her as her body took a moment to adjust to Loki as she took him in his frost giant form for the first time.

She was exhausted. She could barely keep her eyes open as he claimed her. He knew this was hard on her, especially having just come into her powers. She couldn’t even look at him from sheer exhaustion but she’d get her second wind. His precious pet, his sweet love was finally going to be his completely. He watched her carefully, watching his cock swelled inside her. Mara let out a few moans and shifted underneath him. She wasn’t struggling, just trying to get comfortable under him. Frost giants and silver elves, weren’t compatible. At least, that’s what all the books he’d read had said. Somehow, a frost giant had managed to impregnate Mara’s mother and here Mara was. A silver elf with frost giant traits, his to have.

When Mara drew close to her climax, her eyes had gone to violet-blue now. This, was probably her final eye color. The violet he’d originally thought was from Midgard actually reflected the red eyes of a frost giant and pale blue from her silver elf heritage. He kissed her and Mara panted against his lips, unconsciously tightening around him. Yes, she was finding her second wind now. She brought her hand up, placing a glowing finger on his neck. He let out a sharp exhale as the light burned him. It wasn’t painful, but it was strange as if a chill were flowing throughout him. He exhaled as her fingers lit up the spot she was touching. The light was bright, so bright that his blood veins were showing through his skin. Mara traced his veins, following the one from his neck to his heart. When she touched him there…something happened to him. This light, it filled his heart. Loki lowered his head, almost as if in submission as he let out a sharp exhale

She said something in the elven tongue that he didn’t fully understand. She hadn’t been taught the language, but now she knew it somehow. It was an instinct that she knew and followed. Her skin, it was sparkling brightly now, almost like a diamond. Then…she stretched up and bit his neck. Loki faltered in his movements, slowing down in her as this light filled his head, nearly rendering him unconscious. He groaned as his head dropped, touching his forehead to hers. The moment his head touched hers, their world exploded. It all became a bright jumble of colors, emotions and overwhelming feelings. He heard a drumming, a thumping in his head that wasn’t is. However, he soon realized that he was hearing Mara’s heartbeat. She let out a gasp as he pulled her close to him as things grew so blurry it was almost as if stars in the sky were glitter in a snowglobe that had been shaken.

He finally came inside her and he could feel his seed filling her womb. Everything about them was now connected. Every touch, every connection was now amplified. His own body began to shine a little bit under the moonlight. Mara let out a soft sound, almost like a purr as he settled on top of her. With a wave of his fingers, her covered them with a lightweight blanket. She let out a soft sound as he rolled so she was resting on his chest. She let out a moaned and kissed where she’d bitten him, causing his heart to race faster. She said nothing for a few moments as she carefully nibbled on his neck. Now, he saw why Mara wanted him to bite her where he'd marked her that night. The sensation...it was beyond anything he'd felt in his entire life.

He ran his hand down her hair before asking her. “Are you alright?”

“Yes darling.” She exhaled deeply. “I can’t….believe this. I can hear your heart beat, Loki.”

“Same pet.” He exhaled as he said. “You will hear it until the day that my heart stops beating. You will always know that I’m alive. It’s like…our souls are now bound together.” She whined as he kissed her. “I’m sorry. I know it was uncomfortable for you. But this…they cannot severe.” 

“I don’t mind now.” She said softly as she looked at him, her head shaking slightly. “It was worth it, Loki.”

He kissed her gently. “Sleep. We’ll talk in the morning.”

“Yes.” She murmured.

No sooner had her eyes closed did exhaustion claim her glowing body. Her magic was raw and it harvested energy. It was also dangerous, so he’d have to begin training her immediately. With power like hers, she could take over the entire universe.