#and she proceeded to complain the entire time we were there and asked me to remove it like five times

[vaya-mernda]

I don’t feel like a whole person when I’m at work. Just not being able to speak and respond freely is so draining. Or taking abuse or low key agitation from the people I work for/with. This job does not suit me all that well, even if I’m good at it.

[revolutionsingingintherainnn]

Hi! Fellow desi here...

So Navratri is coming soon and I am really excited already!! Can you please write something about spending Navratri with Lando. It would be like teaching him the garba steps and the reader being obsessed with garba and Lando just being in awe.

I love your writing sooo much <3

Desi Girl ༉‧₊˚.

彡 ln x desi!reader 🪷

彡 fluff + smau 🪷

masterlist ☾☼

being an indian meant that there was some festival or the other every few months. that meant new clothes, new jewellery, and the same old feeling of being blessed by the gods and goddesses. for most indians, the blessings of the almighty was all they sought throughout the year.

navratri was one of y/n's favourite festivals. nine days of music, dance, and worshipping different goddessess. every year, y/n bought nine new chaniya cholis for the festival, and every year she danced all night till her feet had blisters. it was the happiest she ever felt.

this year was different though, because she had a boyfriend. a boyfriend who was hot and rich and very much british. since the festival and the autumn break coincided, lando had decided to spend the break with his girlfriend in india. y/n had taken him shopping to all kinds street markets, where all he really did was hold her bags, give his opinion when asked, and made sure that she was hydrated. he had watched as she bargained, and tried on jhumkas, and smiled and laughed even though the sun was scorching hot.

the first two days of navratri had been y/n doing garba with her family and friends, and lando watching from afar, afraid to step into the fast moving circles of humans who were dancing in perfect sync. everyone was sweaty, especially his girlfriend, but she seemed to shine in the sweat. that just made lando fall in love even more.

on the third day, y/n had decided that she would teach lando the basic steps of garba. she took him in a little corner, not too secluded, but there was enough space for him to practice. she taught him the footwork of the dance, but even after multiple tries, lando tripped way more than he ever thought was imaginable. his girlfriend laughed though, so he hadn't completely failed at dancing.

he had tried participating with her friends, where they were all doing the same basic steps that y/n had been teaching him. after a few minutes of stepping on people's toes, and people stepping on his toes, lando had given up, sweating, shining, smiling.

y/n had grabbed his hand and pulled him to the food stalls. lando had never eaten anything like it before, but y/n was excited, and she was happy, and lando eating whatever she wanted him to would make her happier, so who was he to question it?

their first stop had been the pani puri stall. it was certainly an experience to try and fit the entire puri in his mouth without staining his clothes. when he had complained to y/n that there was no way he could fit the whole thing in his mouth, she had smirked at him and said, "remember when i said that to you? that it wasn't going to fit in my mouth?"

lando was blushing, knowing exactly what she was talking about, "y/n,"

"what did you say to me then? ah, yeah, practice makes perfect," y/n had been smiling wide as she teased him. lando had choked on the pani puri, and y/n had laughed, patting his back.

they went through all the stalls, where y/n proceeded to stuff him full of food. it was all extremely spicy for him, and despite y/n laughing at how red he had gotten, lando was determined to not ruin the fun. eventually, she had fed him gulab jamuns, kheer, and so many other sweets, he had lost track.

after eating, lando and y/n walked around the area, talking and laughing, and he had never felt so in love. he repeatedly told her how beautiful she looked, and even at the tenth and hundredth time, y/n blushed just the same. god, she really was breathtaking.

"so, what's the next festival?" lando asked.

"well, navratri ends on saturday, and then we have dusshera on sunday, and then, about two weeks later, diwali! oh, are you going to stay? i mean, i know you have your training and you have to be at the mtc for work or whatever, but dusshera is really fun, cause my nana sits all of us kids down and tells us the whole story of lord ram and how he defeated ravan!" she was rambling, they both knew, but lando loved it.

"i'm going to make sure i'm here on sunday," lando said softly.

"yeah?" her small hands were squeezing his big ones in hope.

lando leaned in, kissing her softly, before he pulled back, "yeah,"

lando.jpg

♫ Desi Girl (From "Dostana")

liked by yourusername, oscarpiastri, and 801,572 others

lando.jpg who's the hottest girl in the world

view all 73,496 comments

yourusername your desi girl <3

user1 is this a hard launch??? ARE WE HARD LAUNCHING RIGHT NOW???

user1 LANDO IN INDIA??? HELLO??? WHY WERE WE NOT TOLD???

user2 he better get an indian passport now

user3 jijaji pt.2???

carlossainz making the most of the break, i see

carlossainz spanish food or indian food?

lando.jpg 🤐

yourusername im watching you, norris

user2 HOLD ON DID LANDO DO GARBA?????

☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓

i'm not really a garba person, despite living in gujarat for quite a while, but this is specifically for my desi girls, cause we gotta feed our delusions somehow to live, right? i hope you enjoy it! i've also got a link for my taglist and requests that you can find here!

[skzhua]

i like coffee better ('your eyes' series)

♡ "This is disgustingly cute."

pairing: kim seungmin x reader.

genre: fluff, barista!AU.

word count: 7,904

warnings: swearing, your typical barista imagine. (proofread-ish)

summary: seungmin has seen you before, but he never bothered talking to you. in fact, he did not care about you. when you came in the coffee shop in distress, he decided to be a good person for once and to make you a caramel macchiato in hopes to help you calm down. surprise: you do not like caramel macchiato, but you do like the young barista.

a/n: we are done with the series after almost 7 months! thank you for your patience and love on this one. i will surely do a similar project in the future since i had so much fun with this one.

SERIES MASTERLIST

"Thank you so much." you smiled at the barista, who only bowed slightly at you.

You grabbed your coffee from him and smiled at yourself. He was cute. You liked to believe you could get along with anyone no matter how different you were from each other. So yeah, the barista was cute, but unapproachable. Over time, you had unconsciously made it your mission to be his friend even though he made the task pretty difficult. Shop crowded or not, he had never paid much attention to you, sadly. However, you weren't the type to give up so easily. His cold façade was only a shell in your opinion.

You didn't have the time to think about this, though. Your friend, Byeol, was waiting for you from outside of the shop, impatience growing.

"Why do you have to take so long to just grab a coffee?" she asked as you began to walk towards the school building.

"I have specific preferences."

"Weirdo." she insulted in a friendly way.

Byeol might be the most careless person you had met in your entire life. First off, you were her only friend from what you could see. Secondly, she was barely listening in class, but still passed with flying colours. Thirdly, she lived alone and had close to no social interaction. It was on the first day of school that you spoke to her for the first time. The teacher had force the students to pair up, so you did so with the girl sitting next to you. Although she wasn't much of a talker, she was a good school partner. So you sticked with her ever since.

Unlike her, you were the perfect example of an ideal student. You would listen to everything in class while taking notes, study for hours, get grades over 90. Within all that, it still surprised you how you managed to be able to have a social life.

Arriving in front of your English class, Byeol whined at the simple fact you had to be there. Linking your arm with hers, you forced her inside and chose two places to sit.

"Be ready for three hours of hell." she complained.

"Come on, it's not that bad."

She shot you a glare. "From 1pm to 4pm, I could be doing other more important things. But no. I'm stuck here."

"With me~" you cooed while putting a hand under your chin to act cutely.

"Babe, I love you, but this class is shitty." she laughed.

When the teacher walked in, she quickly started the lesson. Taking a few sips from your coffee from time to time, your mind went back to the cute barista who had been serving you since you had started going there.

However, being already a few weeks into this school term, the woman in front of the class proceeded to present the main subject of the first big assignment. Unsurprisingly, it was about Shakespeare, which you had studied in previous school years. You put your focus on taking notes, but it didn't take much for you to lose it. Byeol being Byeol, she kept on dropping her pens on the ground as she played with them, bored out of her mind. Shooting her a glare, she smiled with guilt in her eyes and went back to occupying herself. One second later, another one fell off the ground. You ignored her this time, until she did it again and again. This time, you sent her a death stare and she chuckled apologetically. Huffing, you went back to your notes and to listening to the teacher.

"Byeol, would you mind telling us more about Hamlet?" she asked but your friend didn't budge.

You nudged her arm and her head shot straight up.

"Sorry, what?" she said in confusion, which only made you more frustrated with her.

The professor sighed, looking as disappointed as you were, and repeated. "I asked if you could explain the meaning of Hamlet."

The silence she gave was so loud, you were embarrassed for her. In the end, the teacher let go and went on with her lesson. A moment later, she started to explain the assignment. Filling up your notebook with your writing, you wanted to disappear only from seeing how severe her guidelines were.

"If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to me. I'll end this class here so you can start preparing your assignment. I'll see you next week."

You put your books in your bag and stood next to Byeol's desk to wait after her. Although you had a pretty good idea of what you would be doing for the project, you couldn't be any more nervous. Tapping your foot on the floor, you impatiently waited for Byeol, who only gave you a look as she pointed to the ground. Following where she was pointed at, you smiled shyly.

"What? I'm stressed."

"You're always stressed." she scoffed as you left the classroom. "It's just a small assignment, nothing to worry about." she shrugged, but you could not believe how unbothered she was being.

"Small? Byeol, this grade counts for 20% of the semester. If I fail this, I'm failing the course. My parents are going to kill me if that happens." you almost yelled out of panic, but she rolled her eyes at you again.

"Says the girl who has perfect marks."

She did have a point. One factor she forgot was how easily stressed you could get, especially for school. Your parents had always been very strict with you when it comes to school and you couldn't imagine how it would be if you were to disappoint them. Hence, you were continually anxious with your grades.

"Okay, fair enough. This time, though, I really have no idea how I'm going to do with this project. She wants us to compare modern adaptations of Old English stories with their original but does she understand how much work this involves?"

You waited for an answer, but none came. Stopping on your tracks, you noticed how she had been ignoring your complaints. This was typical of her. You loved her, but she was always daydreaming somehow.

"Byeol." you snapped her out of her thoughts.

"I'm sorry. The class was so boring, it tired me." she smiled weakly.

You sent her a glare, annoyed at her behaviour. The both of you started to bicker while walking towards the bus stop. You could walk to your dorm, but you weren't a fan of walking in the cold unlike some others. After your tiny arguing was over, your bus stopped in front of you.

"I'm going to study at the coffee shop tomorrow, you're coming?" you asked but she shook her head no. "Alright, I'll see you next week, then. Have fun alone, tonight?" you teased her.

"Thank you, Y/N." she laughed as you finally went inside the bus.

It was barely a five minutes ride until you got home. Tired, you didn't even bother removing your coat when you plopped yourself down at your desk. Your flatmate, Eunhee, observed you curiously from her own desk, taken aback from your lack of energy. The girl kept to herself mostly, though she had started to open up more recently. She wasn't as much of an introvert as Byeol was, but still not as social as you.

"Long day?" she asked.

"Yeah." you groaned. "I've never hated school so much."

She hummed as she kept reading her schoolbook. "I have only six courses and I feel like it's too much."

"Tell me about it."

But you were going to make it. You knew you would, because you always managed just fine. Everything was going to go smoothly.

The only thing going smoothly was how quiet the coffee shop was for being 7 in the morning. Other than that, you were pure chaos as you had been staring at the project instructions blankly, lost about how you should start.

"Latte for Y/N?" the worker called from the counter, shifting your attention from your laptop.

You stood up and got your drink, thanking him, before walking back to your spot. You started to type some ideas, but it was still very blurry in your mind. You checked the instructions once again, and realized none if your ideas would be working. So you started over.

It had been a few hours since you had started, and you were getting hungry. You walked up to the cash register to wait in line. A muffin sounded tasty, but they had just freshly made new sandwiches. You opted to order both.

"Next." the worker said in a lazy voice.

"Hey! I'd like a ham sandwich with a carrot muffin, please!" you asked kindly, but the man raised an eyebrow at you.

"You're still here?"

"Pardon me?

The question took you by surprise. You had been, in fact, in the café for hours already. You didn't expect the workers to notice your elongated presence, even less this cute barista.

"No, because you've been sitting in front of your computer since we opened. I'm just wondering why you're still here."

Maybe he was concerned, but it came off rather direct. Almost as if he was annoyed about you studying at his workplace.

And Seungmin was, in fact, annoyed. He's not stupid, he's noticed how often you would come to his job location. So much that he had started to ask Felix to cover his shifts when he knew you had a break. Because it was to the extent he knew your schedule; you were always there. Usually, he wouldn't mind. However, you were one of a kind to say the least. You had tried to befriend him on many occasions. Seungmin strongly believed work wasn't a place to be making friends and that, instead, he should be focusing on executing his tasks and on the pay he would get in the end.

"Excuse me, but I like studying here. I have an important work to do." you informed politely, though you were quite offended by his comment.

"Sure." He focused back on the cash register, entering your order. "That would be $8.92. Credit again?"

You didn't bother confirming because you knew he already knew. You paid and stepped aside to wait for your food. In no time, he gave you the bag without addressing another word to you as he went back to the cash, taking the next client's command. Though he wasn't so different from other days, you felt like he was particularly good at getting to you this time. It might have been because of stress, but it still hurt.

Sitting back down at your spot, you stared blankly at your messy brainstorming as you chewed in your sandwich. You didn't even realize you were doing so until you finished your food, the muffin included.

Your eyes left the screen and you found Seungmin out of his work attire as he held onto his school bag. Raising an eyebrow at him, you waited for him to talk. Seeing that he wasn't going to do so himself, you started to talk.

"Can I help you with something?" you asked kindly.

"Why are you so... cheery all the time?"

You tried to muster up an answer but his question took you too much by surprise. As he noticed you weren't able to answer, he sighed.

"Forget it, that was stupid to ask. Good luck with your homework."

As you watched him leave, you found yourself smiling. He was literally the cutest guy you met and he had finally said something kind of friendly to you. Improvement, no?

Your leg jumping up and down, your teeth biting into your lower lip as you chewed the skin around your nail simultaneously, you were on the verge of giving up. This school work was eating your from the inside and everything you had done so far seemed like a waste of time.

"Still here?"

Your eyes left the screen and you found Seungmin out of his work uniform, a bag slumped on his shoulder. It was the third time you went to the shop in only a week, and funny enough, it was the third time Seungmin had finished work not even ten minutes after you settled at your usual table.

"Still surprised to see me?" you replied unexpectedly rudely.

Seungmin was taken aback. Usually, you would simply answer softly with a quick explanation and he would leave you with a shrug. This time, however, you seemed to be more on edge.

"What?"

You rolled your eyes. "You always tell me the same thing every time, I'm starting to wonder why it's such a big deal that I study here." Seungmin wanted to say something back, but you were quicker. "I mean, I'm surely not the only one who comes here to do their homework."

Mouth slightly agape, he didn't know what to say. With a satisfied nod, you went back to typing even if you were writing nothing really. He sighed heavily and left the shop and you saw Felix take over his shift. He walked up to you with a smile.

"Hey, Y/N!" he beamed at you.

"Hey." you responded carelessly.

He frowned. "Are you good?"

"Yeah, I'm just struggling a bit with this thing."

He leaned closer to see your screen. Slowly a crease appeared between his eyebrows in concentration as he read your project outline.

"Looks fun."

You grunted. "Real fun."

"Didn't Byeol do the same project?"

Your eyes widened. "Don't tell me that bitch finished before me? I thought she hated this class."

Felix shrugged. "Maybe she wanted to get rid of it as soon as she could. Good luck, anyway. If you need me, I'll be at the cash."

You waved him bye and sighed heavily as you read again your outline. In all honesty, you wanted to cry. You removed an entire paragraph plan and started to type something else. When you determined you had put something decent, you read yourself again and you found it to be no better than the last idea. With a loud groan, you let your head fall into your arms as you slumped on the table. Tears were pricking your eyes but you were determined to not let anyone see it. Still, it wasn't that easy to contain your quiet sobs.

"Here." you heard someone say as you felt the chair in front of you being pulled for them to sit.

You rose your head up and were more than stunned to see Seungmin extending a beverage to you. This was such a small gesture but the built up stress you'd been under made it seem like the greatest thing anyone could do for you. In an instant, you let more tears flood on your cheeks. It was Seungmin's turn to be surprised. Not knowing how to deal with you, he put the drink in front of you and gave you an awkward smile as an attempt to cheer you up.

"Can I do something else? Do you want a muffin like the other day?"

Great, this only made you cry more. In a rush, he went to Felix to ask him to get you tissues. He came back to you with a Kleenex box that you accepted gladly. After blowing your nose a few times and wiping off your tears. You finally breathed normally.

"I'm so sorry." you started as Seungmin straightened his posture as to tell you he was listening. "I've been under a lot of pressure with this paper and I have to submit it next week. I have no idea how I'm going to manage and... I'm sorry, I'm rambling on."

Seungmin chuckled. You thought you were dreaming. You heard the man chuckle.

"I get it. I have my own load of school work these days and it's a lot."

You nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it sucks."

He pointed to the cup in front of you. "I got you this, it might help."

"Thank you." you smiled kindly before taking a sip. As the beverage came in contact with your tasting buds, you weren't able to hide your face of disgust. "What is this?"

"Caramel macchiato."

"A coffee would have been just fine." you said as the weird taste was still in the back of your mouth.

He rolled his eyes. "As if I was supposed to guess you don't like it. Fine, I'll get you a muffin then."

Before you could protest, he was already up and walked behind the counter to steal one of the carrot muffins. Too stunned to speak, you just stared at him when he walked back to your table with the baked good.

"This, I know you like." he sighed as he switched it with your drink.

Carelessly, he took a sip from your cup. In your head, so many things were happening at the same time. One thing in particular stuck; what the hell happened to him to be so kind to you?

"I'm sorry but why are you doing this?" you questioned.

He perked an eyebrow in confusion. "To make you feel better... I thought it was obvious."

"It is but why?"

He wasn't sure exactly what was your question but he tried his best to answer. "I mean, you've been on the verge of crying so I thought you might need some distraction."

"Yes and thank you but I'm a little bit confused. I thought you didn't like me."

You did get him there. He didn't like you, indeed, but seeing you all panicked and helpless did something to him. He couldn't say what it was but there was a feeling within him of needing to help you relax. Perhaps it was simply because he was raised to be kind to those in need.

"I don't despise you. You're annoying as shit, sure, but I'm human too. I can see when someone is not well."

Finally, a smile formed itself on your face. After all of your efforts, he finally confirmed to you that he had the capability of being nice. You almost wanted to believe he did this for a purpose other than simply helping out someone. For exemple, because he actually did like you. However, you were not delusional to this extent.

"Well, I appreciate it a lot. Thank you, Seungmin."

"Sure, you're welcome." he said nonchalantly and took another sip of the caramel macchiato.

"It tastes nasty."

He huffed. "Well, you have no taste."

An insult, but you saw it more like teasing this time. Maybe this was his way to bond. Anyway, you were not going to complain. You got free food and it was more than necessary for you to like him. (As if you didn't already.)

"What is your major?"

He blinked slowly, surprised by your interest. "Biology."

You hummed. "Do you like it?"

He shook it head. "It's not that bad but I'm only in this field to get more opportunities. Maybe I'll change it but I don't know."

You nodded and then waited for him to ask you the same. It never came and Seungmin was still sipping on his drink while staring in the void, deep in thoughts.

"Well, I'm an English major. I'm considering teaching in kindergarten."

He didn't seem impressed. "Fun."

"I used to babysit my little cousins a lot before college." He hummed. "I think this is what made me what to go with teacher as a career."

"I wanted to do something nice to calm you down, not for you to tell me your whole life story." he deadpanned. "Sorry, I don't want to be rude but I'm not really in the mood."

You pursed your lips in an 'o' shape while nodding and you focused your eyes back on your laptop. The two of you stayed like this for a while in silence. You had done close to none advancement in your work but at least you had completed your outline. This was a start.

"I'll be going." Seungmin said and got up on his feet.

You saw that his cup was now empty so it only made sense he would leave then. Nonetheless, you were quite disappointed.

"See you around?"

He pondered for a moment. "We'll see."

There was only the conclusion left for your paper. The rest was completed in the last weeks you went to study at the coffee shop. Seungmin had seemingly stopped avoiding you much to your joy. Unlike what you would have expected, he continued to treat you some snacks once in a while as a way to encourage you with your work. It was always when he was done with his shifts and he'd bring you an ice americano with some words of support such as "looks like you did some good work", "keep up, it's almost done" or "don't stay here too late". At that point, you weren't even coming to the café to focus on your project. You only wanted to see him, consciously or not.

But when you realized so, you called Byeol in panic. Asking her if it was okay for you to stop by at her place on a normal Thursday morning, you stormed in without knocking. Making laps around her living room as she sat on her sofa while reading her notes for her next class peacefully, you were far from being relaxed.

"And then he gives me yet another muffin with sweet words only to greet me coldly again the day after. It's as if he has come around with the idea of me being at the shop all the time but being annoyed at the same time. And Byeol, when I tell you his smile is the cutest shit I've seen, I'm not kidding. And with the project ending, what is going to be my excuse to see him? He's still so distant when I bring up any topic other than honework."

She nodded nonchalantly, visibly spacing out. "Calm down, I'm sure it's not a big deal."

"The deadline is tomorrow, how can you ask me to calm down?"

She only sighed before turning her book's page. "I did it under four hours of work and you know I'm much slower than you. You'll be fine."

You scoffed in disbelief. "You don't get it. I'm not stressed about the work. I'm stressed Seungmin will stop giving me coffee each time he sees me in the shop."

In a quick move, she closed her book and stared at you in confusion. "You know Seungmin?"

Your eyes grew bigger. "YOU know Seungmin? And were you even listening to what I've been telling you for the past 20 minutes?"

Luck wasn't on your side as someone knocked on her door. She left to answer while you continued to groan by yourself. You debated whether you should ask him out or not. You did like him a lot but there were times you only wanted to shove him into a hole for being such an cold-heated ass.

Byeol came back with her mail and you took one of her pamphlets while she read another. Might as well try to distract yourself with boring school news. One thing did catch your attention. You held out the paper to your friend.

"You might want to read this one."

Snatching it from your hands, her eyes went over the paper and she whined. "Fuck this shit." Then another knock came from her door. "What now?"

Seeing that she was clearly not in the mood of facing someone else, you opened the door for her and you were surprised to see Hwang Hyunjin in front of you. From all you knew, Byeol had little to no friends other than you. You sent her a knowing look that she didn't even see unfortunately.

"Hyunjin? What brings you here?" she exclaimed as soon as she saw him.

"Ah, um... I thought we... I don't... I.... Didn't we agree on going to school together now since we have classes at the same time on Thursdays?"

Her eyes widened and you almost wanted to laugh at the two for being such a mess together. "Shoot, right, I'm sorry." she breathed out.

Seeing this as your cue, you grabbed your bag and put your hand on Byeol's shoulder. "I'll be off, then. Call me if you need anything, okay?"

You took off to leave the lovebirds alone and almost ran to the coffee shop. You were almost certain that Seungmin was working. So needless to say you only felt disappointment when you saw Felix smiling at the customers as he took their orders. Still, you needed to get your project done before the end of the day. You sat at your usual spot and opened your laptop before typing rapidly on the keyboard. Having only a couple of details to add, you were done only an hour or so later.

"I can't say you didn't work your ass off on this." Felix said in amazement.

Seeing he had taken off his apron and had his school bag with him, you assumed he had just finished his shift.

"I might have put more time into it than needed, but at least I know I'll submit something good."

"Yeah, at least." he chuckled. "By the way, Seungmin took the day off today if you were wondering."

"I wasn't." you dismissed his saying but he gave you a look. "What?"

"Nothing." he shook his head is despair. "See you around, Y/N!"

You were then left alone with only have the submission of your work left to do. Not having eaten your breakfast and with your tummy grumbling, you hopped up from your chair to walk towards the counter. Only then, you almost crashed into another student who you didn't see coming your way. Halting your moves, you now recognized the familiar features you grew to both love and hate with time.

"Kim Seungmin, be careful!" you exclaimed, slapping his chest. "You almost caused me a heart attack."

He only laughed as an answer. "I'm sorry but I didn't expect you to get up the moment I was about to join you."

With that being said, he sat at your table causing you to do the same besides the fact you were about to leave. Opening his school bag, he pulled out his own notebooks and started to scribble.

"What are you doing?"

He perked an eyebrow at you. "Studying... Isn't it obvious?"

"Yeah, but why here?" you asked while showing the entire place being half full.

"You're the only person I like to bother." he shrugged and went back to writing. "By the way," he said without looking up. "I asked Felix to save you a muffin and to make you an iced coffee but I guess he forgot."

You were too dumbfounded to for a proper response and by the lack of it, he finally looked at you before throwing money your way. You stared at it, still not moving. What the hell was he doing now?

"It's on me, go get something." he rushed you.

Almost afraid of him, you took the bills and walked up to the cash. You came back minutes later and gave him the change. Still not looking up from his things, he dismissed you and mumbled for you to keep it.

"Thank you."

"It's my fault you didn't get your snack, it's nothing." Finally looking up, he frowned upon seeing a cup in front of him. "Y/N, what is this?"

"I thought you might want something too." you answered before drinking your coffee. "I don't know what you like other than that, so you've got a caramel macchiato."

"Thanks, but it was for you to buy yourself something, not me."

"And I got my stuff, sorry for being kind." you rolled your eyes. "What are you so pressed about? It's just coffee and a muffin."

"Who's been getting you that for the past weeks?"

"I didn't ask you to."

"You still appreciate it."

You were growing annoyed. "Yeah, but what game are you playing? I'm not your girlfriend or even your friend. Have that courtesy reserved for someone like that."

He glared at you. "I don't have many friends or even a girlfriend. Can't you simply thank me and let it go?"

You scoffed. "Fine, my bad. Thank you." you snapped at him.

"You're welcome but enjoy your muffin and let me study."

You groaned but he ignored you as he continued to work on his things. You tried to get your mind off this stupid argument by finally submitting your project online and then started to pack your things in your back. Seungmin, visibly surprised, put his hand on your laptop to stop you.

"You're leaving already?"

"Yeah, I'm done with my project."

You thought you caught a glimpse of disappointment in his eyes but you blamed it on the sun that was hitting his face in the perfect angle. Damn him and his perfect visuals.

"I thought it was due next Friday."

"Tomorrow is Friday, genius." you laughed.

You nodded your head in his way before walking out. Taking a breath of fresh air, you had a weird feeling forming inside of you. You opted to walk to the campus instead of taking the bus since it might help with making it disappear. However, someone shouting your name loudly only tightened this strange feeling.

"Can I walk you to your classroom?"

"Okay, Seungmin. Don't take it personal, but what the actual fuck is wrong with you?"

Little did you know there was actually nothing wrong with him other than he realized he might had taken too much of a liking to you. After Felix convinced him to stop switching shifts for the sake of his spot as dance captain in the dancing club, he had to familiarize himself with the thought of having you around all the time. He didn't know why but your friendly behaviour you had been keeping up ever since he met you only got on his nerves.

But when he saw you almost on the verge of a burnout that day, something in him switched. Hence, he thought giving you free food would be his way to show that he cares in a subtle way. Only recently did he realize he liked you. And all of the bad and rude jokes were nothing than just some friendly teasing. But you couldn't know that.

"What do you mean?"

You grunted again. "You're acting all... nice. Well, more than usual today."

"Is it that hard for you to think I'm genuinely friendly?"

"Honestly, yeah. I'm weirded out a little."

He didn't respond this time and he took your hand in a quick manner before walking towards the school, still having the caramel macchiato you got for him in his other hand. You would have tried to break away only if he didn't have this much effect on you. The knot you had inside your tummy transformed into butterflies. You almost couldn't believe that he was being this bold with you.

"What time is your class ending?" he asked after he arrived in front of your classroom.

"At 3."

He smiled widely at you, rubbing the top of your head. "I'll come see you then."

You had no time to process what he said as he left. In all honesty, you had no idea what happened and debated on whether you wanted to wake up from this dream or for it to be reality. The voice of your teacher rushing the students to get seated at their desks was what it took for you to understand that this was all real, just really confusing.

Weeks passed by and Seungmin continued to walk you to your classes and get you afterwards only to hang out. You still went to the café often so nothing changed much in the end. You were grateful for him being so sweet but you remained doubtful of his motives. First off, the shift in his attitude was progressive but fast so you couldn't comprehend what caused it. And then, he'd be acting like a child around you at times that you were wondering if it was the same man you met before.

"I have a good idea." Seungmin declared as he dropped his books in front of you.

Startled, you jumped a little from his sudden appearance and glanced around the library to make sure he didn't bother another student. "And what is this good idea of yours?"

"The end of the semester is coming up soon, no?" You nodded. "And I think meeting up at the café or the library has become a bit dull."

"What is your point?"

"I've been wondering what kind of date would be nice and I asked Jeongin to help me with this-"

You held your hand up to stop him. "Woah, there. A date?"

"Yeah." he nodded happily while you stared at him in shock.

"Seungmin, we're friends, right?"

He shrugged. "I thought you liked me. Was I wrong?" You hesitated to say something causing him to roll his eyes. "Okay, so the nice tipping and the cute not-so subtle glances from last semester were nothing?"

Your eyes widened. You did, in fact, try to catch his attention by doing those small things but you didn't expect anything to come out from it since he was being so indifferent. But ever since you got closer, you had suppressed your feelings to avoid things to be weird with him.

"Maybe you weren't wrong." you admitted in a whisper.

He grinned. "Knew it. Alright, I'll do this more properly then."

"Do what?"

Instead of answering, he took your hand and looked deeply into your eyes. You felt intimidated to say to least.

"Y/N, will you go on a study date with me?"

Your eyes grew even wider. "What?"

"You heard me."

You broke you hand away from his grasp and gathered your things quickly. Giving him a quick apology, you ran off.

It was certainly not because you didn't want to. This was too unexpected. And right before the final exams? He chose his timing well...

Catching up to you in the hallway, he put his hand on your shoulders to stop you. "I'm sorry if this is too straightforward but can I at least get an answer?"

You still couldn't form words other than something that sounded like "Uh?"

"Look, I already got something prepared for you. Can you come see it? If you don't want to stay by then, you're free to leave."

Reluctantly, you nodded which earned you a smile from him and he took your hand. Walking away from the school grounds, you were starting to feel uneasy. Where the hell was he taking you to? The further you were going, the less familiar your surroundings were. Eventually, Seungmin attempted to appease your worries by making a couple of jokes here and there. Before you knew it, you had stopped watching around as you let yourself being guided by him.

"I rarely see Jeongin like this but he is obsessed with this girl." he chuckled as you seemed to approach a family house.

"Where are we?" you asked as you stopped on your tracks, growing doubtful.

"Changbin's place."

"Doesn't he live on campus?"

"His parents' place, then. They are gone for the week and Changbin let me use his backyard."

Before you could question him again, he headed towards the fence door that let to the back. You followed behind and he stepped aside to let you walk first. Needless to say, the setup caught you off guard. A coffee table was displaying books and mugs as well as a coffee maker.

Seungmin excitedly walked towards the spot while gesturing for you to sit with him. You complied in silence, unsure on what to say.

"You know that book you need for your literature course?" he said and you hummed. "I know you've been struggling to get a hold of it so I asked Chan to use his model student status to find it."

You looked closer to the book laying on top of the pile. Indeed, it was the one your professor had been telling you to get since the beginning of the semester. With you being the person you are, you thought you would be able to buy it later on since you only needed it for the finals. Lucky enough for you, it was now out of stock and you had begged Byeol to give you hers once she was done. Only this girl was taking forever to finish it which only fed your anxiety.

"Using your friends for me? Man, you must like me a lot for you to do." you chuckled.

"Right."

"This is disgustingly cute..." your murmured, loud enough for him to hear.

His face grew red before he hurried you to start reading. As you began to do so, he served you a cup of coffee as well as one for himself and went on to do his own stuff. It was pure silence but you could hear your heart beating so loud. You glanced at him a couple of times just to make sure he wasn't hearing it.

And Seungmin was doing everything he could to focus on his book. However, your presence made his hands sweaty and he was struggling to prevent himself from looking at you.

Minutes went by, hours went by. And he looked.

And you were looking back.

Panic mode went on in your brain and you squirmed on your seat to find a better position. You attempted to go on with your reading but you just couldn't.

"Y/N." he called out.

You were almost glad he spoke first, diffusing the tension already. And the smile he gave you before sticking out his tongue made you laugh more than it should have. You were about to read again but he made you another face, one so ridiculous that you shook your head while chuckling.

Seungmin felt a rush of confidence all of the sudden. If he had managed to make you laugh, then he definitely succeeded in making this a perfect date. Maybe it was time to test how much he can joke around with you.

"Look at this."

Your gaze moved to the picture he was pointing at in his own book. You weren't sure why he would want to show you a picture of a squirrel, you frowned.

"It looks like you."

You scoffed. "Yeah right."

"No, it does! It's fluffy and you look soft. Squirrels eat a lot, you do too-" he went on to explain but the glare he received shut him up for a second. "And they're cute... just like you."

You didn't know how to react, you were certainly not used to receive this kind of attention, especially from Seungmin. Your lack of response kind of made freak him out, though. Sure, he grew confident but the worst thing after a rejection is no answer at all. Nervously, he took a sip of his drink and resumed to his reading.

"Thank you." you ended up saying. "And thanks for the whole... thing?"

"Date." he corrected.

"Right. Thank you for the date."

And, so, one date turned into two, two dates became three, three became four, and so on. In the span of three weeks, the two of you had almost become inseparable. Remaining his unserious self, Seungmin still showed you in many ways that he cared a lot. The way he would pull the chair for you to sit, order your muffin at the café, prepare your orders in advance as he knew you'd be coming. He checked up on you every morning and night, making sure you either slept well or had a good day. He walked you to almost all of your classes and sometimes even waited outside of the room until you were done.

Although you had never asked the other, it was evident you were a couple. Still, there had been nothing more than holding hands. And even that remained something you were not quite familiar with yet.

"Hey."

You jumped slightly from the contact with your hand while Seungmin was smiling happily. Rubbing your skin softly with his thumb, he looked at you with affection.

"Oh, hi."

"Hi."

"Hi." you chuckled at how ridiculous you two were being.

"So... What's the plan for today?"

Dates were usually planned by Seungmin but you had insisted on your last one that you wanted to surprise him for once. Meeting up at the park near school was the only thing you told him so far.

"I recall that you mentioned liking singing, am I wrong?"

He gave you a look. "What about it?"

"I don't know music much nor do I know what you like. However, I might have arranged something even better."

You tightened your grasp on his hand and headed out of the park. Seungmin let you lead but was quite lost. You were always full of surprises but this one worried him just a bit.

You had been walking for quite a bit. Even if Seungmin was bugging you every ten minutes to ask you where you were going, it didn't stop you from joking around and laugh.

"Seriously, where are we going?" he said, finally having enough of it.

Your smirked. "Karaoke?"

His already serious look turned darker as he glared down at you. "No."

You pouted. "Why not?"

"It's embarrassing."

"I'm sure you're a great singer."

"It's just a small hobby." he shrugged before starting to walk back to where you came from.

With a huff, you grabbed his arm and tried to keep him from running away. You tugged a couple of times but he was much stronger than you and not moving the slightest.

"Seungmin!" you whined as you stopped trying.

Rolling his eyes, he turned to face you. "What do I get in return?"

"My care and admiration?"

He let out a laugh. "I already have it."

"What do you want then?" you groaned.

He looked up as he thought for a second. "A kiss?"

A... a kiss? You opened your mouth but no sound came out. It was evident it would happen one way or another. However, your mind seemed to have shut this idea out. Was it because you were scared? Maybe.

"Hey." Seungmin said as he took your hand. "If you are not ready, I won't push it. I said it as a joke."

You watched his other hand move to your cheek and you felt your breath cut short. You swore you could feel your heartbeat fasten.

"Shall we go?"

You blinked once and twice, and smiled. "Yeah, let's go."

While Seungmin offered to pay, you insisted that it was on you. It was your idea after all and you absolutely didn't mind spending money if it meant you finally would hear Seungmin sing.

When you got into the room, you sprinted to sit on the couch while grabbing the tablet on the table. Seungmin watched you with adoration before joining you. There was something so darned adorable about you scrolling through the songs as your eyes shined. He could see them lit up every time you'd see a song that caught your attention.

"I'll start, and then your turn?" you said as you showed him the song you picked.

"Impress me."

With a grin, you started the music and stood up to pick one of the microphones. As the melody began, you swayed your body side to side to match with the beat. As the lyrics came up on the screen, you lost no time in giving your all. Your vocals were not good per say but they weren't horrible. In fact, Seungmin liked your voice quite a lot. There was a hint of passion in it that was mixed with simple fun. He loved how it looked as if there was no one watching you. You were glowing.

"Done!" you said happily and clapped for yourself. "Your turn."

"Do I get a kiss in the end?" he wiggled his eyebrow only to receive a smack from you. "Ouch! Sorry..."

He scrolled through the songs and it seemed to have taken him hours before he settled to one. The soft music surprised you, you would've bet he was the pop music kind of guy.

You could see he was nervous, that was obvious. The way he fiddled with the mic, how he kept on looking at you, how he bit his lower lip in hesitation. But still, he brought the microphone to his mouth and he sang. It was simply beautiful, you found no better words to describe it. You didn't know a voice could soothe your ears so much, it felt as if they had never heard anything before. You were just speechless.

You almost cried when you realized it was the end of the song, not wanting this moment to end. When Seungmin set the mic down on the table, you jumped up and squeezed him in a tight hug. He held you back automatically while you were attempting at your best to compliment him.

"Why are you hiding this talent? Since when do you- why don't you sing more? This was so pretty! Can you make a career out of this?"

"Woah, calm down." he laughed while hrabbing both of your shoulders. "Thank you but it really is just a hobby."

"Then I'm the only one who gets to hears this, I'm gate keeping you all to myself." you affirmed.

"You're cute."

He laid a kiss on top of your head and you frosmze in place. Slowly, you dared to look up at him and he was much closer than you originally thought. You could smell his minty breath mixed with the cologne he must have put on beforehand.

"And you're very pretty." he added in a quieter voice.

Your eyes moved to his lips and there was no denying he wanted to lean in closer. You wanted to. You ignored the overwhelming of butterflies in your stomach and stood higher on your tippy toes. Results; your lips touched. It barely lasted a second as you pulled away quickly, almost ashamed of what you had just done.

Seungmin didn't waste any time to grab the back of your neck and pull you right back into a kiss. This time, it was long enough so you could feel how his lips felt so perfect on yours. It was better than you imagined.

As you pulled back, you couldn't help but shed a tear, worrying quickly your lover.

"What's wrong?"

You shook your head. "Nothing. It's just, I think I'm in love with you."

His mouth broke into a smile. "I think I'm in love with you too. Why are you crying, though?"

"I don't know, I'm happy?"

"You don't seem too sure."

Your lips turned into a pout, making him chuckle. "Stop, you meanie..."

He couldn't take you seriously, you were too cute like this. Pecking the top of your nose, he brought you closer to his body.

Whilst his cold façade was always something that intrigued you, what you wondered more was why was his body so warm next to yours? And how on Earth did you manage to actually get with him?

Whatever it was, you could definitely say coffee wasn't your addiction anymore. It was him now.

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[thirsty4villains]

Cool Heat

Summary: You're an assistant for the Avengers. Loki has been hiding up in his room for the past week. You go to check on him and he's reverted back to his Jotun form, but he's not quite himself. The two of you discover that Jotuns go into cycles of heat, and Loki hasn't been in his Jotun form for over a millennia...

Rating: Explicit (smut in future chapters)

Warnings/Tags: THIS STORY WILL CONTAIN SMUT, and 1 chapter will have some dubcon, Loki lives in Stark Tower with the Avengers (because my brain is perpetually stuck in 2012 Tumblr era), sleep sex, PIV, smut, humor, romance, Jotun!Loki, more tags to be added

Find me on AO3, Wattpad, Patreon

CHAPTER 1

“Has anyone seen Loki lately?” Steve asked one Saturday afternoon. Tony Stark, Natasha, Clint, Bruce, and you were all hanging around the lounge area in the penthouse of Stark Tower when Steve had walked in and posed the question.

You still couldn’t believe that you were The Avengers’ assistant and that you regularly spent time with them in Stark Tower. You started as an intern for S.H.I.E.L.D. back as a senior in high school years ago and now, here you were, filling out reports and helping the Avengers out in any way you can.

“Don’t tell me you’re complaining about it,” Clint responded. “This is the most peaceful it’s been in a while.”

He laid his head back and slumped deeper into the couch.

“You’re not worried, are you, Cap?” Tony said teasingly.

“About the guy who tried to take over Earth a few years back and now has access to highly confidential S.H.I.E.L.D. secrets? Yeah, I could say I’m a little worried.”

“I think he’s just been in his room all this time,” you piped up. You were busy multitasking eating a sandwich and going over some S.H.I.E.L.D. documentation that Coulson decided to drop on you last minute.

“Yeah, he’s just been kind of keeping to himself,” Bruce said. “Well, except for…”

He rubbed the back of his neck.

“Except for what?” Natasha asked, turning her head, finally looking up from the magazine she was reading. However, you were fairly certain she was listening the entire time.

“Well, last night. Or the other night, I can’t remember — it doesn’t matter. Anyway, the other night I got hungry and went for a midnight snack, and when I came to the kitchen, Loki was there too. He had the fridge open, but he wasn’t looking for anything. He just had his eyes closed and just… stood in front of the open freezer. It was only for a second and then he noticed I was there, so he shut the fridge and went back to his room.”

“Maybe he was sleepwalking?” You asked.

Bruce shrugged, then shook his head. “I dunno, but also when he saw me he kind of… snarled. I thought I imagined it because I was half awake, but maybe he did.”

“Okay, that is weird,” Tony said, shoveling some chips into his mouth.

“Should we tell Thor about this?” Steve asked.

“And say what?” Tony asked. “Hey Thor, sorry to bother you while on your vacation with Jane but Loki was standing in the fridge and he kinda growled at Bruce. Is he evil again? Please advise.”

Steve crossed his arms. “I just think someone should check on him at the very least. When is the last time anyone has seen him, aside from Bruce?”

The room fell quiet as the cogs in people’s brains turned.

“Monday,” Natasha said.

“Monday, yeah,” Clint said.

“Sunday, I think,” Tony offered.

“Monday for me too,” you said.

“Ok, Sunday or Monday. Today’s Saturday. That means no one has seen him in almost a week, except for Bruce the other night. Something must not be right.”

“So… Who’s gonna check on him? Not gonna be me,” Tony said. “I’m not gonna piss him off.”

The room was silent again.

“Oh come on, really. No one?” Steve asked.

“Why not you?” Natasha rebutted.

“Because I’m fairly certain he likes me the least. He’ll probably just slam the door in my face.”

“Oh my god, okay, here.” Tony roused from his chair and went to the kitchen, pulling out a box of toothpicks from a drawer.

He proceeded to snap them, throwing tiny bits of toothpick into the garbage can.

“Come on, all of you. We’re drawing straws. Everyone get up and pick one.”

Each person moved to grab a toothpick from Tony. As you took yours, you hoped to God that you wouldn’t get the short stick.

You’d been working alongside the Avengers for 6 months – a little time after Loki joined. In that time, you’d gotten to know each person well. Some you were closer with than others, but overall you got along with everybody. Loki, however, was a different story. Most days you weren’t sure if he tolerated or hated you; other days, on the rare occasion, he treated you very kindly and joked with you. On any given day you couldn’t be certain what kind of attitude he would have. At this point you decided he was just a reformed asshole, and usually kept your distance.

Your last interaction with Loki on Monday was curt. You attempted to make small talk with him about his weekend, but many of his answers were one-worded, so the conversation wasn’t really a dialogue. He seemed agitated, but not more than usual. Maybe he was feeling depressed and that’s why he’s been holing himself up in his room?

It was time to show the toothpicks off. Everyone outstretched their hands and revealed theirs. You all compared sizes and, lo and behold, of course you had the short stick.

“Oh, great,” you said, blowing a puff of air out of your mouth.

“Thank god it wasn’t me,” Natasha said.

“Or me,” Clint responded.

“Phew,” said Bruce, deliberately avoiding eye contact with you.

“Alright, alright, I get it,” you said. “I’ll go figure it out. If he kills me, you’re all to blame and Tony’s paying for my funeral.”

You tossed your tiny toothpick into the trash and went to the elevator, hitting the ‘10’ button, the floor where most bedrooms were. At the end of the hall on the left side was Loki’s. In all the time you worked for the Avengers, you’d never gone to his room, not even knocked on his door. Loki was very private about his space and you respected that.

You brought up a fist, but hesitated, like a force prevented you from knocking on the door. Almost no one ever bothered him while he was in his room, and you were just a lowly human compared to superheroes and literal gods. The last thing you needed was a god’s ire directed at you.

Hopefully you could just knock on the door and find out he snuck out for the afternoon, and avoid an interaction altogether.

Knock knock.

Silence. You waited.

Knock knock knock.

You waited some more.

“Loki?” You asked. “I’m here to —“

“Here to what, mortal? Antagonize me?” Loki said from behind the door. His interruption startled you.

“We haven’t seen you in days, we just want to make sure you’re okay.”

The god swung open the door violently. You took a step back, alarmed by the sudden interaction. Loki’s face was deeply perturbed, and blue.

Blue!

And not just his face: his neck, his ears, his hands. His entire body was a deep blue. What’s more was that his eyes were entirely ruby red, whites and all. If you didn’t know him you would have gone running back down the hall. It was quite a terrifying sight to see, like a demon just opened the door. And yet, there was something about this appearance that beguiled you.

“I am alive,” he said. “Happy? Now leave me in peace.”

“Loki… what happened to you?”

He groaned. “It is the business of no one here. You will tell no one. Not Iron Man, not the Captain, none of them. You hear me? Make up a lie if they must know.”

“Loki, if you’re sick I want to help. Or did some magic you cast go wrong? I’ll tell them a lie, just tell me if there’s anything I can do.”

For a brief moment, his look of irritation and anger softened.

“I don’t think you can. But it was no magic, and I do not believe that I am sick.”

“Then why are you blue?”

He was quiet, then gave a long, drawn out sigh.

You expected to come here and get a door slammed in your face. Instead, Loki began explaining to you a part of him you never knew. Loki wasn’t Asgardian, he was something called Jotun, and he didn’t know about this for a millennia. He explained the Jotuns to you, then went on to say Odin kept his parentage a secret from him as a way to protect a peace treaty between the Asgardians and the Jotun. But what’s worse is that Odin also brought Thor and Loki up believing that Jotuns are barbaric murderers.

It was quite the info dump you weren’t prepared to hear.

Loki continued: “Despite my… monstrous heritage, there is still much I don’t know about that aspect of myself. A few days ago I began to feel ill; faint and light-headed, so I laid down on my bed. When I woke up, I no longer had my Asgardian appearance but my Jotun one, and I have been unable to change back since.”

“Are you weaker in this form? And are you positive this isn’t some kind of disease?” you asked.

“I am fairly certain, and all of my capabilities are at their fullest. However, I have been feeling agitated, angry, and frankly just on edge. It’s becoming worse by the day. I’ve confined myself to my room for the safety of myself and others, but I’m afraid that this… affliction is not going to cure itself on its own.”

“Maybe Tony can help? Or Bruce?”

Loki chuckled sardonically. “How would they? I have little knowledge of Jotun biology, what help could they possibly offer?

“Maybe…”

“Enough chatter, woman!” he exclaimed, making you jump. “I will find a solution on my own. Your concern has been noted. Leave me now, would you kindly?”

He shut the door in your face. You retreated back to the lounge in the penthouse. When you arrived, everyone stopped what they were doing to look at you.

“Well?” asked Steve.

“He’s alive,” you said. “And very grumpy, I would advise not to bother him. He told me he has some sort of Asgardian illness and it should go away soon.”

“That settles that. Great work,” said Tony. “I’m going to my lab now if anyone needs me.”

“I have some stuff to look over, so I’ll be going home for the day,” you said. “Ring me if you need me.”

When you got home to your apartment, you did do some work poring over your S.H.I.E.L.D. files like you said, but more of your time was spent wondering about Loki. You couldn’t stop thinking about how his true heritage was kept from him for a thousand years. It didn’t excuse what he did in New York but it sure did explain a lot. You were aware of his jealousy toward Thor, but the pieces connected a little more firmly now regarding his angry and irritable nature.

The other thing that you couldn’t expel from your mind were those ruby red eyes surrounded by sapphire skin. They were piercing, and sometimes when you blinked you could swear that you saw them flash in your retinas. They were frightening yet alluring. It was a shame he seemed to hate his true form so much – not that his usual one was ugly by any means.

Although Loki said to leave him be, you felt dreadfully sorry for him, on both accounts of his history and his current predicament. If he didn’t speak up soon, you would check on him again.

[weministertomonsters]

The Näcken

This story is dedicated to House_Sparrow on Wattpad, who gave the suggestion. <3

➤ Wordcount - 1.8k

Nøkken/Nykkjen/Näcken is a sinister male freshwater spirit from Norwegian and Swedish folklore, his first mention dating all the way back to the Viking age. He is said to dwell in dark ponds, lakes, or rivers. Nøkken is a shapeshifter but is most known to take the shape of a handsome man with long hair (Swedish), a monster of twigs and seaweed with glowing eyes (Norwegian), or a white horse.

Nøkken plays a fiddle, or in some stories a harp, and he is said to be the best musician in the world. In many stories, Nøkken uses his beautiful violin music to put people in a trance to lure them into the water and drown them. In other stories, Nøkken may play a more active role in pulling them into the depths.

───────────────────

"Papa is back!" Your six-year-old niece, Eloise, announces as she comes barging into the tavern with a big smile.

She's been playing outside and has a smudge on her button nose and two dirty spots on her skirt from where she's been kneeling in the dirt, digging for worms. She pauses to pet the ginger cat asleep in the corner and skips up to you, proceeding to slingshot her body against your leg, nearly knocking you off balance. Her chin digs into your thigh as she looks up at you adoringly.

"What are we having for dinner?" She asks.

"Vegetable soup, and the bread I baked fresh this morning," you reply, giving the counter one last pass with your dishcloth to make sure it's all clean for the busy night.

"And fried skipper?" Her eyes grow wide.

"Why don't you go see if your Papa caught some?" You suggest.

You can't help but smile as she goes charging outside to give her father the same tackle-treatment. Usually, he laughs and grabs her and spins her around, but you don't hear any laughter today. You hang the dishcloth out to dry and walk outside to find them.

Eloise is gaping up at her father and although you can't see her face, you know she's never this quiet unless something is wrong. Your barrel-chested brother is soaking wet, standing with his head low and hair plastered to his face, clutching an empty net in one hand. There's no fish. Even the worst fishing days still turn out a small catch.

"Eloise, how about you go inside and clean up for supper?" You tell her.

Surprisingly she goes the first time you ask, wide-eyed as she scampers inside.

"What happened?" You ask, and then you spot what he's holding in his other hand. "Is that... A fiddle?"

"Yeah." He drops the net and rolls his shoulders.

"You didn't buy that with your fish, did you?" You ask suspiciously.

"I wouldn't do that," he huffs and starts into the little cottage beside the tavern that you share.

"It wasn't long ago now that you spent your entire day's worth of fishing on beer," you remind him, but your tone is gentle.

You both know why he drank so much. When his wife died he'd shut down, and it took the power of god and one very determined little girl to dig him out of the dark hole he'd retreated into.

"I didn't buy this," he says, setting it on the kitchen table with a thump.

"Be careful of that, will you? It looks well made," you murmur, eyeing it. "Will you tell me what happened then? And tell me why you've got a fiddle."

"I was out fishing by the river when I heard music," he begins, peeling off his vest and hanging it by the fire to dry. "It was coming from the middle of the river, where that big willow grows. I was curious, so I got my boat closer."

"Change first, you can continue after you're dry," you tell him, beginning to warm up the vegetable soup and slice the bread.

He heads upstairs to change and comes down a few minutes later with Eloise. She clambers into a chair, thanking you when you give her a bowl of soup and a generous slice of bread. She's a real trooper and doesn't complain about the lack of her favorite fried fish.

"I thought they were things of legend, but there it sat," your brother picks up the story from where he left off. "A Näcken. Would've thought it was just some man off his rocker but he had this air to him. And he was naked as a baby and pale as a river stone. Hard to unsee that."

"Ahem." You raise your eyebrows and gesture to his daughter, who is so engrossed in the story that her bread is going soggy in the soup.

"Did it have big teeth, Papa?" She asks. "Did it try to eat you?"

"I wouldn't know, Pumpkin. I got pulled in the water 'fore I could get a good look," he stares at his bowl, frowning. "I'm a good swimmer, but there I was, about to drown in just a couple feet of water."

"Then what?" Eloise pipes up. "Did you scare it away?"

"Shouted at him to stop playing the bloody thing but he just kept at it. So I grabbed a rock and threw it as hard as I could. Bam! I got him right across the face." He smacks his hand against the table and the dishes rattle.

Eloise laughs in delight and looks adoringly at her father, the "monster slayer" but you're far from impressed.

"So you thought taking his fiddle would fix it, did you?" Your voice is cool as your eyes narrow.

"Well, it means he can't play," he shrugs. "Serves him right for trying to drown a good man, I say. Let's see him try his tricks now."

For Eloise's sake, you drop the matter, but your gaze keeps turning to the fiddle leaning against the wall, dripping water to the floor. Once dinner is over and Eloise is tucked into bed, you confront him.

"Brother, that creature is going to be very unhappy that you took something of his. What do you think will happen the next time you go out to the river?"

"Let him try. I'm taking my hunting knife with me tomorrow," he says, his huge body lit by the dancing flames from the fireplace.

Your brother is a sturdy man and can take care of himself. But the look in his eyes... It's been a long time since you've seen him look like this.

"But—"

"Relax, sister. I'll give the damn thing back eventually," he rumbles. "You know, I... I thought I wasn't going to make it back today. All I could think of was you and Eloise ending up on your own."

You squeeze his shoulder and settle down to knit for a few minutes before it's time to open up the tavern. You're making a new coat for Eloise to wear on cold days. As you knit, you keep glancing at the fiddle, its gleaming surface reflecting the flames from the fireplace. You have some doubts, but you trust your brother when he says he'll give the instrument back, so you let it be.

A few days go by, and you were correct in your assumption that the näcken would be displeased. Your brother doesn't catch a single fish and comes home each day, seething. One afternoon, you decide you've had enough.

"I'm sending it back," you announce as you hang the last of the laundry. "I can't contend with your sulking."

Your brother is sitting on the porch, drinking his third tankard of beer.

"I used to be one of the best fishermen, sister. Now look at me. Reduced to a lout who can't catch a fish to save his life," he groans.

"You can't hope to battle against the supernatural and win," you reply. "I say you're lucky he hasn't drowned you yet."

"I've seen him a few more times. Just sits on the rocks and laughs at me. I ought to—"

"You stay put." You grab the fiddle from the shelf where you had placed it to keep it safe.

"I can give it myself, you know," your brother says, but he doesn't move from his spot.

"Ha, I doubt you can walk in a straight line, insufferable fool." You ruffle his hair like you're kids again. "I'll be back."

"Be careful, sister," he calls after you. "If he tries to lure him in, hit him with a rock. It worked for me."

You roll your eyes and start for the river. It doesn't take long to reach, even on foot. The water is framed by grassy banks and spotted with lily pads that float on the surface, brightening the scene with their pink flowers. You can see the willow growing on the small island in the center of the river, but there's no water spirit in sight. You stand at the bank of the river and look around.

"I brought your fiddle back," you call out. "My brother was wrong to take it."

The quiet hum of nature answers you. Birds chirping in the trees and the soft sound of running water. You lift your skirt and wade as far into the water as you dare, clutching the fiddle tightly. The water comes up to your shins and you pause.

"I'll just leave it here for you. Please let my brother fish in your river. My family needs the extra income."

You wait another beat, but you don't see or hear anything out of the ordinary, so you place the fiddle in the water and give it a little push, so it floats away from you. As you turn to trudge out of the river, something rises out of the water right next to you. Your shoe slides on the slimy rocks and you tumble into the water with a little scream. For a moment you don't know up from down—the water is suddenly so deep—but then you're pulled up by a firm grasp on your elbow.

"Thank you," you gasp at how cold the water is, your teeth already beginning to chatter.

The Näcken stands before you, tall and thin, with stringy green hair so long and plentiful that it covers his nakedness. His eyes are the color of bracken water, a murky blue. You can see your surprised face reflected in them.

"Thank you," he says simply. "For bringing back my fiddle."

"It's no trouble. My brother should have never taken it," you reply a little breathlessly.

After all, it's not every day you speak with a supernatural being. He backs away from you and you hastily reach for his forearm. His skin is slippery-smooth and your hand just slides off. He looks at his arm and then at you, his hair falling in his face.

"Can my brother fish again?" You ask timidly.

"I'll think about it," the Näcken replies, tucking his hair behind one pointed ear.

"Well, all he did was take your fiddle, and I have returned it in one piece," you say slowly.

"He threw rocks at me," the Näcken says. "I do not abide any harm attempted on my face."

"I'll tell him to apologize," you say desperately. "Please?"

"Hmmm. You should go now," he says, sinking halfway into the water. "I am about to play."

You know not to press your luck, so you turn to leave. You're already out of the water when the Näcken calls out to you.

"Come back tomorrow, and I will give you my answer," he says.

You turn to look at him, but he's disappeared. You can hear the beginnings of a tune, and it's an alluring sound. But the effect is dampened because he keeps stopping to twang at the strings and tune them. You leave before he can begin to properly play.

[meowmeow-motherfucker]

Covenant- Chapter 11

Summary: With the five year anniversary of the attack on New York approaching, Odin and Fury come to the agreement that an arranged marriage between Asgard and Earth would show good faith toward all future interactions. When Odin refuses Jane’s candidacy, Agent Coulson is tasked with finding a suitable wife for the prince of Asgard.

Pairing: Loki x OFC Claire Fisher

Word count: 14k (prepare drinks and snackies as always)

Chapter warnings: honeymooning, smut, fluff, flirting, unintended voyeurism, author's irresponsible use of cliffhangers, angst, hurt with no comfort

Taglist: @lokisgoodgirl @gigglingtiggerv2 @icytrickster17 @mysteriouslyfriedjellyfish @lokislilkitten @justjoanne242 @amlocked @ddmariegirl @mags-04-blog @sharris8 @meepycheep @iamlokisgloriouspurpose @the-fantasy-loving-angel @jaidenhawke @smolvenger @ladymischief11

Please let me know if you'd like to be added to the taglist! Thanks for coming along on this journey with me!

Read it on AO3 here: https://archiveofourown.org/works/51197938/chapters/129363727

Ragna was delighted to stay on as the princess’ personal servant. She liked to think the new princess and she had grown close over the past several weeks, at least as close as a servant could hope to be to their betters.

She walked toward the newlyweds chambers, shoulder to shoulder with the prince’s personal servant, Astrid. Astrid had served the prince since boyhood, and had served the queen before him. Astrid enjoyed one of the highest staff positions within the palace, below only the personal servants of the king, queen, and crown prince. Now, Ragna ranked just below her, and she couldn’t believe her luck. She’d expected to go back to her regular duties now that the princess was wed, but the Midgardian had taken her by surprise by keeping her and the rest of her assigned staff and moving them up the ranks with her.

During yesterday’s proceedings, Ragna had prepared for the princess’ arrival in the princes chambers under Astrid’s direction, and had set up ‘the game plan’ as the princess called it- her lewd outfit meant to seduce the prince. Ragna hoped it had achieved the intended effect.

The posted guards outside the prince and princess’ chambers opened the double doors as the two women approached. Ragna tended to the fire as Astrid entered the bed chamber, stoking it back to a roaring blaze.

~~~~

Loki and Claire were woken abruptly when Astrid came to retrieve them a short time after they’d fallen asleep. It was unclear how long the newlyweds had slept, but it had not been long enough for either of them.

“Gods, Astrid, why?” Loki complained, burying his face between Claire's shoulder blades when Astrid opened the curtains and set the room ablaze with early morning light.

“Good morning, Your Majesties! Tis time for breakfast! Come, come!” The elder woman cheered.

“Oh god, she's a morning person,” Claire groaned, shielding her eyes in the crook of his arm. “Loki, do something.”

“I'll yell at her later...” Loki mumbled tiredly. His voice was groggy and rough from sleep, which was just rude and absolutely did not make Claire’s lady parts perk up with interest. God, how many times did we fuck last night and I’m still horny?

“You'll do no such thing, my lord,” Astrid laughed. “Now come along, the entire palace is waiting! We must get you bathed and dressed!”

“Faen…” Loki grumbled. “Very well. Would you like the first bath, darling?” he asked, his breath tickling her neck and making her squirm.

“We can share one if you want. Save water and whatnot.” Claire replied, giving him a mischievous look when she opened her eyes.

“Indeed. Conservation is of the utmost importance. Astrid, we’ll bathe together.”

“Of course, Your Majesty,” Astrid disappeared into the bathroom and the newlyweds wove their limbs together. Claire was trying to tame Loki’s wild curly hair as he teased the tender flesh between her thighs. Astrid had just started the water when Ragna stepped into the room.

“Good morning, Your Majesties,” she curtsied. “The queen has arrived.”

“Norns,” Loki grumbled, dropping his hand from Claire’s core, where he’d just begun to tease her sensitive bud. “Already?”

“She wishes to help the princess get dressed.”

“Well, um…” How exactly did one tell the queen to get lost? Claire’s budding hopes of riding Loki in the bath might as well be moved to the ‘to-be-done-later’ list. She looked up at her new husband and shrugged. “I got nothing.”

“Please let the queen know we are not yet ready,” Loki answered for Claire. “Perhaps she could have some tea while we bathe?”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” Ragna curtsied again before leaving the room as quietly as she’d entered.

“So are you going first or am I?” Claire asked.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Loki scoffed, resting his head in his hand as he reclined regally onto his pillow. His fingers plucked at her pebbled nipple delicately, teasing the nub with the pad of his thumb as he turned toward her. “I was already set on enjoying you again, and my mother’s arrival will not sway me. Unless of course...you object?” he challenged, looking down at her with a grin. Claire returned the grin as Astrid returned to usher them into the bath. “We will not require assistance, Astrid,” Loki announced before the older woman could speak. “Please see to my mother.”

“Of course, Your Majesties.” Astrid curtsied and left to help Ragna, leaving Claire and Loki alone once again.

“Shall we?” Loki asked. He climbed out of bed after her, hands caressing along the silken expanse of her curves as she rose onto her tiptoes and stretched. He pressed a kiss to the curve of her neck, arms winding around her middle as she leaned back. “Are you well?”

“Fantastic. C’mon, let’s get cleaned up.” Claire linked their hands, gifting him a delectable view of her backside as she led him toward the bathroom. Loki closed the door behind them, pulling her back and lifting her in his arms. Claire’s legs wrapped around his waist as he pushed her back against the door, drawing him in for a heated kiss. Claire whimpered into his mouth as the heated column of flesh between his legs pressed against her slick entrance. She canted her hips in search of friction, fingers digging into his scalp as she angled herself to rub against him. Loki’s breath was punched from his lungs as his cock slipped between her folds, warm and wet and perfect. Claire’s hands moved to his shoulders as he reached between them, enjoying the choked, desperate sound she made as he smacked her sensitive clit with the head of his cock.

Claire’s train of thought derailed as Loki pushed inside, words failing as he pinned her against the door. Her thighs trembled as he draped her legs over his forearms, nails digging into his shoulders as he bottomed out. Loki closed the gap between them to claim her lips, grinding against her to make her whine. He flexed his hips, withdrawing from her tight heat.

Every nerve in Claire’s body sizzled as he sank deep inside her, the ridges and veins of his cock stroking her velvet walls. Claire whined, the hard muscles of his body cradling her as she writhed against him.

“Gods, you are- hng- delightful,” Loki grunted, jaw clenching tight as her movements sent a spark of pleasure up his spine. “So- responsive.” he growled, torturing them both with slow pumps of his hips.

“Faster- fuck- please…” Claire pleaded, her desperate words trailing off into a high moan.

“Careful darling or we’ll be caught,” Loki teased, ramping up his rhythm. “We don’t want that, do we?” he asked, punctuating his question with a fast stroke. Claire cried out, clinging to him like a koala as she buried her face in his shoulder. Every stroke caressed deep inside her, setting her blood ablaze as she watched him tunnel in and out of her dripping cunt.

“Loki!” Claire barely recognized her voice as her body clenched, early ripples of orgasm taking root.

“I shall never tire of hearing you beg for me,” Loki said breathlessly. He trailed his large hand from her hip to her clit, groaning as she clenched around him when he began stroking the sensitive nub. “Come, little wife,” he pleaded in her ear, sinking his teeth into the tender flesh of her neck. “Come.”

Claire’s body spasmed under his touch, back bowing as pleasure overrode everything else. Loki held her gaze through it all, keeping her upright with steady hands as she rocked her hips against his. He adored it all already; the curl of her long lashes as her eyes slipped closed, the sting of her nails in his back, the fluttering of her velvet walls as she shuddered around him. Loki chuckled, pressing a kiss to her temple as her iron grip went lax. Claire nuzzled against him, wrapping her arms around his torso and squeezing him with her thick thighs.

“Shall we to the bath?” he asked, hefting her in his arms. Claire gasped as the movement caused his cock to move inside her, nipping at Loki’s neck as a fresh wave of pleasure ran up her spine. Loki took the stone steps slowly as he walked into the bath, easing down onto the stone bench. He took special care with her legs, massaging her thighs as he relaxed against the high wall of the bath. Claire slumped against him, dotting weak kisses along his shoulder. Loki rubbed her arms, a fond smile playing on his lips as he watched her. “Are you back with me?”

“Gimme- more.” Claire murmured. She shifted in his lap, planting her feet on the bench beneath her. She traced her palms up his long arms to his neck, pressing her chest against his as she cupped his face and leaned in to kiss him. His hard cock stirred inside her, Loki’s breath puffing against her lips as she began to ride him. He groaned deep in his throat, his head falling back as his fingertips dug into her thighs. “It’s your turn.” Claire rode him hard, raising up until the very tip of his shaft remained inside her before sinking back down to the root. Loki squirmed beneath her, breathless pants escaping him as she watched him come undone.

Loki began to buck, teeth gritted as he fucked her with abandon. His fingertips dug into her skin, sure to leave fresh marks. Claire could only hang on for the ride, arms around his neck and face buried against his chest. Her nipples grazed against his flesh with every thrust of his hips, sending her even closer to the edge.

“Du er...helt- perfekt,” Loki grunted. “Faen!” his body jerked, his hips slamming into hers as he tumbled over the edge. He sucked in a lungful of damp air, his heart racing as water splashed onto the tile outside the tub noisily. Claire captured his lips, swiveling her hips and making him gasp. Loki rested his forehead against hers, trailing his fingers over her clit and making her shiver.

“We should probably get cleaned up,” Claire chuckled. “But we are definitely doing that again.”

“Hmm- yes,” Loki agreed, hissing as she lifted herself off of him. Loki pulled her beneath him, protecting her head with his arm atop the tile. He traced his fingers through her folds, swallowing her gasp as he kissed her. “I do regret I’m not able to watch my spend drip out of you.”

“You are obsessed,” Claire giggled. “How are you obsessed already?”

“it is a delectable sight,” Loki sighed, slipping two fingers inside her to feel the mess they’d created together. “One I shall endeavor to see as often as possible.”

~~~~

“Good morning darlings!” Frigga said cheerfully when they finally joined her in the sitting room. She looked radiant as always as she got to her feet, impeccably dressed in a lush blue gown with her hair coiffed and perfect. Claire felt severely under dressed in the plush robe Loki had put around her shoulders. Feeling a little cold out of the warm water, she sought warmth against Loki’s solid form, wilting when his arm curled around her waist. “Come, let’s get you dressed and ready! The feast and your guests await you.”

“Didn’t we just have a feast last night?” Claire asked.

“Must you be so cheerful, Mother?” Loki complained from beside her.

“Of course! It is a beautiful day, my son is wed and I now have a daughter. Now come along; everyone is eager to see you open your gifts!” Frigga said cheerfully.

“Wait, what?” Claire rubbed her tired eyes with the back of her hand. Between the bath and the orgasms, she just wanted to go back to sleep.

“It’s time to open your gifts, sweeting,” Frigga said patiently, carding her fingers through Claire’s wet hair. “Remember?”

“Can we tell them I’m sick?” Claire asked hopefully as Frigga followed her and Loki into the bedroom. The motherly affection felt really nice and it was definitely not making her feel feelings. “Or really, really hungover?”

“You didn’t drink anything last night,” Loki replied from his side of the room. Somehow he was now awake and functional, the jerk. Claire turned to glare at him as he disappeared behind the dressing partition thing with Astrid, and she was distracted by the marks she’d left on his flesh. She couldn’t remember during which round she’d put them there. “But even if you had, we still must make an appearance.”

“Riiiiiight, what was I thinking? Thor is basically a frat boy; of course this place would be like one big frat party.”

“Kindly refrain from mentioning my brother in my bed chamber, dearest.” Loki groused from behind the screen.

“Eat me.” Claire muttered as she opened her armoire. Loki gave no response, but she did hear him drop something. Frigga contained a polite laugh behind her hand as Loki muttered about having already done that.

Kill me.

“Shall I help you choose something to wear?” Frigga asked eagerly, smoothly steering away from the discussion of Claire and Loki’s budding sex life. It was obvious she was excited to have a girl in the family, and Claire, having lost her mother at an early age, was equally excited to have a mother again.

“Yes please. There are so many choices, I wouldn’t know where to start.” Claire said gratefully as Ragna opened the armoire for them. Frigga smiled, joining Claire to peruse her massive wardrobe. Together they began thumbing through the offerings in the armoire. Claire felt paralyzed with indecision- this would be her first appearance as an actual-factual princess, and she needed to look just right. Which dress would send the best message? This one? That one? Frigga gave her a polite smile, obviously wishing she would pick something. Claire lingered on one dress: a floor-length gown made from silk and tulle with barely-there coverings for her arms. It was a beautiful purple-to-white ombre, with a sizable diamond brooch on the belt. “What about this one?”

“It will do nicely,” Frigga smiled, taking the dress from her. She gestured for Claire to step behind the dressing curtain, following after her along with Ragna. “Tomorrow, your servants will help you dress and fix your hair. I wanted to help this morning and officially welcome you into our family.”

“Thank you.”

“Are you ready yet?” Loki complained from beyond the screen, the smirk evident in his voice.

“Perfection takes time, dearest,” Frigga replied calmly, winking at Claire before a warm green glow washed over her and Claire found herself fully dressed and ready with every hair in place. “All set.”

~~~~

They’d been feasting and drinking for hours. Their guests were getting rowdy waiting for them to open gifts, and the newlyweds were getting bored. Well fed and comfortable in their plush seats at the head of the great hall, Claire could feel herself growing more tired by the second. Movement over by the pile of gifts they had yet to open caught her attention.

“Loki? Why is that box moving?” Claire asked, leaning over into her new husband’s space. Loki glanced over toward the gifts, smiling in amusement as he spied the ornate box holding the gift he’d purchased for her shaking.

“It would seem your gift is rather impatient,” Loki quipped, smiling when Claire looked at him in disbelief. “Perhaps you should open my gifts first.”

“May I?” Claire asked eagerly, waiting for Ragna to hand her the box. The green and gold wrapping paper had a slight shimmer, and a delightful texture similar to velvet, with small circles in the fabric that were darker and lighter weight like lace. Claire thought it odd, but it made sense when she lifted the lid off the box, coming face to face with an adorable black and white kitten. “Oh my god,” she giggled in disbelief. The small kitten bore typical tuxedo coloring, the white of its tiny chest already absurdly fluffy. It’s rounded dark face held vivid blue eyes and was topped with pert ears already bearing small tufts of black fur. “Hi cutie.” Claire ran the back of her finger down the kittens chest, cooing at the softness. The kitten watched her pet down to its white belly, head swiveling back and forth excitedly as she tickled the patch of white on its belly.

“She is a skogkatt, or Norwegian Forest Cat as Midgardians call them. It is tradition for men to give their new wives a kitten in honor of Freyja,” Loki explained, gesturing politely toward one of the women watching them open their gifts. “It is meant to bring good fortune to our new household.”

“I love her,” Claire gushed, picking up the kitten to snuggle her to her chest. “Look at her little white socks!” she clutched the kitten with adoration, the kitten purring loudly as she nuzzled against Claire’s face. “She’s adorable, thank you.” she glanced over at Loki as the kitten settled against her neck.

“What shall you call her?” Loki asked indulgently. A cloud of kitten fur obscured the lower half of Claire’s face, but it pleased him to no end that she cherished his gift.

“Mochi,” Claire declared. “It’s a popular dessert on Earth.” she snickered at Loki’s confused face. Mochi chirped as Claire stroked her little head, sniffing along Claire’s wrist and up her arm.

“I have one other gift for you.” Loki gestured for another box to be brought forth. Tucking Mochi into her side, Claire opened the ornate wooden box to reveal the pearl handled knives she’d admired on their first outing to the marketplace. A gasp escaped her as she fingered the delicate swirls of the metalwork.

“You didn’t,” she beamed. “Loki, these are beautiful!” she gave one a quick flip in her hand, admiring the perfect balance of the blade.

“They are beautifully crafted. I remembered how much you admired them.”

“Thank you so much.” Mochi reached out a tiny paw to inspect the knife, and Claire allowed her to sniff the handle before tucking it back inside the box. Not to be deterred, Mochi reached up to paw at Claire’s face.

“You’re quite welcome.” Loki seemed rather proud of himself as he watched Claire dot Mochi’s tiny forehead with kisses.

“I hope you like what I got you.” Claire grinned, watching as her gifts to Loki were brought up. Loki grinned as he spied a box matching the one he’d given her. Claire had also gifted him a set of knives, plated in gold and inlaid with glistening emeralds. They were beautifully balanced, and he was eager to test them out. Tucking the knives back inside their velvet lined box, he set his sights upon the second box.

Nestled inside was a series of seven hardcover books. Loki slipped the first book from its slot to inspect it. The front cover bore artwork of a boy on a broom, hand outstretched to capture a golden orb. In the background stood the turrets of a castle opposite a bank of trees and a unicorn.

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” he murmured. The synopsis on the back sounded a bit...juvenile, if he was honest, but he found himself wanting to read it all the same. “What is this?”

“That is the Harry Potter series, from Earth,” Claire replied, smooshing Mochi’s little fluffy cheeks as she spoke. “It’s one of my favorites, and I hope you’ll like it too.”

“It looks promising,” Loki replied. “I’ll start reading it right away.”

Astrid set Claire’s gifts to Loki aside as Ragna took the knives from Claire. She offered to take Mochi as well, but Claire refused to let the small kitten go. Mochi had taken up space in the cradle of Claire’s arms, her little head pressed against Claire as she purred. Her tiny paws were kneading Claire’s flesh, mini claws pricking gently at her skin as her white whiskers twitched.

Loki watched the scene with affection, pleased that Claire adored the kitten he’d chosen. Her fingers stroked the kittens soft fur, eyes full of love as she watched the kitten stretch.

“Shall I open the other gifts darling? You seem quite content as you are.”

“Please?” Claire glanced up, smiling when Mochi nuzzled at her hand, tiny pink tongue darting out to lick her finger. “I don’t think she’ll let me put her down.” she giggled.

“Of course.” Loki gestured to Astrid to begin bringing him gifts to open.

~~~~

An hour later, the pile of gifts around them had grown significantly. Aside from their gifts to each other, they had been gifted: several skeins of yarn (hand-woven by the Asgardian equivalent of nuns, and very rare in color, according to Frigga), an ancient Nordic sword from the British museum, and a multitude of treasures from other countries. Claire had never seen such fancy jewels up close, and suddenly she had her own small collection of priceless bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and even tiaras. The llama they received from Thor had been trotted in and swiftly back out when it shat on the floor and attempted to take food from a shiek’s plate.

Anja, Steve and Bucky gifted them a guide to healthy relationships and a cast iron skillet set. Bruce and Darcy gave them an assortment of date night kits and a scratch-off travel map of Earth. Tony, to Pepper’s utter mortification, had thrown in an assortment of sex toys (including a set of dice and handcuffs) with her tasteful and expensive collection of wine, candles, and massage oils.

As things began to wind down and the gifts were put aside to be cataloged, Claire handed Mochi off to Loki. The kitten promptly took to pawing at her new father’s nose, which he allowed with a grimace.

They would be leaving for their honeymoon in just a short while, which meant all of their guests were leaving. There were several she wished to speak to one last time, but at the moment there was only one person she wanted to see.

“Phil!” familiar arms closed around her as she barreled into him, his comforting scent filling her nose as she buried her face in his shoulder.

“How are you?” Phil asked. Claire was feeling uncharacteristically emotional at the moment. Her eyes began to burn as the reality sunk in- everyone was leaving her behind.

“The crown has no comment.” Claire opted for snark instead of vulnerability. Phil pulled back from their hug to look at her with concern.

“Was it bad?”

“Phil!”

“I just want to know you’re okay,” Phil held up his hands in surrender. “Please don’t ever tell me details.”

“I wasn’t planning on it,” Claire glanced back toward the high table. Mochi had given up on fighting Loki and curled her tiny body under his chin. Loki was saying something unintelligible to her as his long fingers smoothed her fur. It was adorable. “So when do you go back home?”

“Well, I don’t have to go right away. The queen invited me to stay until you get back.”

“I’ll be gone for an entire month,” Claire scoffed. “Since when do you take that kind of time off?”

“Since my only family married a blood-thirsty space prince,” Phil muttered. “I wanted to at least be close by, in case you need me.”

“Phil…” Claire pulled him into another hug to hide the tears threatening in her eyes. Married life was turning her soft already. “I’ll be fine.”

“Are you sure about that?”

“Yes,” Claire laughed. “You should go home and get some work done. You can come back any time.”

“Oh god.”

“What?”

“Nothing, it just occurred to me you could be pregnant the next time I see you.”

“I won’t be.” Claire shook her head.

“You don’t know that-”

“Yes, I do. Be cool about it please; we’re keeping it on the DL.”

“Is that...wise?”

“Please,” Claire scoffed. “We have literal ages. Now go home, you nerd. I’ll see you when I get back, right?”

“Of course,” Phil agreed. “I love you, or whatever.” he added teasingly. When Claire had first started living with him, it had taken her months to open up, and longer still to tell him she loved him.

“Oh my god, shut up,” Claire laughed. “I love you, or whatever.”

“Alright, go on, shoo. Go be a princess and say goodbye to your other guests.” Phil ushered her to the swarm of people milling about.

“Bye Uncle Phil,” Claire smiled. “Anja!” she waved her new friend down, waving over her shoulder at Phil as she vanished into the crowd.

“Your Highness,” Anja curtsied perfectly. “Congratulations on your lovely start. You have quite a collection already.”

“Oh, yes, everything is so nice! I think the cat is the most surprising, although the ancient sword is very cool.”

“Can you imagine stabbing someone with a sword that old? Wouldn’t the blade just...disintegrate?” Anja pondered.

“Probably,” Claire snickered. The two women shared a laugh over the thought. “So why the cast iron?” Claire asked. “Not that I don’t appreciate it but...why?”

“You never know when you’ll need to set someone straight.” Anja said cryptically, offering a small smile.

“What are you suggesting?”

“Nothing! But you know, if he starts acting up,” Anja shrugged. “Worked for my first husband.”

“You hit him?”

“Just once.”

“Wait- which one is your first husband? I know you said you got a two-fer but...one of them had to go first, right? How do you keep them straight?” Claire gasped. “Did you crochet them matching ‘Thing 1’ and ‘Thing 2’ sweaters?!”

“No,” Anja laughed. “But if I did, they would be ‘Thing 2’ and ‘Thing 3’.”

“Did you kill your first husband with a cast iron skillet?” Claire asked suspiciously.

“Wrong again!” Anja sighed wistfully. “It was rather romantic actually. We were at war, any day could have been our last…” she sighed again. “Sometimes people do absolutely batshit insane things for love,” she glanced up at Loki and Mochi, who’d by now wrapped the entirety of her little body around his neck and was watching with rapt attention as Loki gently wound her long tail around his finger. “But you knew that, didn’t you? Congrats again.” Anja grinned, winking at Claire as she left to rejoin her husbands.

Once they had made the rounds, Claire and Loki (and Mochi) were ushered to a more private room to sign the official treaty. Two copies were created- one to travel to Earth, and one to be locked in the vaults of Asgard.

“No darling, not on the parchment, please,” Loki said gently as he plucked Mochi from the table. Mochi complained of course, but it wouldn’t do for official documents to be besmirched with tiny paw prints. “After you.” Loki gestured for Claire to sign first, passing Mochi to her after she had signed both documents. Loki signed both parchments with a flourish, and they were quickly ushered outside to a waiting carriage, where Frigga and Thor waited to wish them farewell. Loki set Mochi just inside, creating a barrier with his seidr to keep her contained.

Hugs were exchanged and tears were shed (by Frigga), and then they were off. As they traversed the streets, crowds of people waved them off. Claire was still getting used to that, but she did open the window and wave back.

“So! What should we do to pass the time?” she asked as she settled back into her seat. The carriage interior was plush, and large enough they could each stretch out on their respective bench seats. Mochi had already claimed a spot by the far window, her fluffy body curled into a tiny ball as she dozed.

Four days later

The newlyweds were packed together beneath the blankets like sardines, taking up only a fraction of the large bed. Limbs wound together as they breathed in sync, both exhausted from their travels but desperate to keep contact. The ink on their marriage contract had barely dried before they had departed the palace, leaving the city behind to make their way to a remote mountaintop cottage where they would spend their honeymoon.

Before they could get there, however, they had to traverse the realm, stopping at family estate after family estate to be hosted by various wealthy families along the way. Many of the families had been in attendance at the wedding itself, and had only arrived home shortly before the newlyweds did.

Four days they had traveled north, and four homes they had stayed in. Though they were far less opulent than the palace, the homes were stately and elegant, and the families spared no expense in hosting the prince and princess royal.

Since their chamber doors closed behind them on their first night as a married couple, Claire and Loki could barely keep their hands off each other. Now that they were allowed to act on their desires, all their fierce arguing translated rather effortlessly into molten passion that signaled the beginning of something truly wonderful.

~~~~

Loki woke, already hard and aching, when Claire began to press kisses across the span of his shoulders. He groaned at the feel of her breasts pressing against his back, the tantalizing tease of her fingers as she pulled him closer bringing back the memory of her hands in other places.

“Loki...” she pleaded against his skin, her feather soft kisses lingering on his shoulder blade. “Want you.” One of her hands found his cock, fingers wrapping around the heated column of flesh and making him shudder in her grasp.

“Oh gods,” he panted, rolling his hips and hissing as she worked him slowly. “If we had more time...”

“We can sleep in the carriage.” Claire murmured, moving his dark curls aside to plaster slow, tantalizing kisses along his neck.

“We are guests...” Loki protested. “We shouldn't.” It was a weak argument, one that he’d made and lost at their previous stops in their journey.

“Okay,” Claire gave his shoulder another kiss, her hand trailing up his stomach and across his chest before she pulled away. Loki felt her roll over and settle back into the lush bedding, sighing with satisfaction as she got comfortable in her new position. Loki's dick throbbed angrily. Already his skin missed the feel of her hands, the heat of her kisses. His mind made up, he followed her, pressing against her back from head to toe. Claire groaned sleepily as his hands began to explore her body, fingers finding nipples as he pressed his groin against the curve of her ass. He repeated her actions, laving heated kisses across her shoulder and up her neck, groaning against her skin when she rolled her hips back into him. “So tired,” she complained, voice muffled by her pillow. “But god damn I want you to fuck me. Please.” She keened when his hand trailed down to her hip, kneading the flesh and coaxing her to press back against him more. She opened her legs, resting one atop his so he could more easily access her core.

“You will need to be quiet,” he murmured, dotting the heated flesh of her neck with kisses as he rubbed his cock against her folds. “Can you do that?” She was so wet he slid inside easily, and he smiled at the breathless whimper that escaped her. “Poor little wife, you were desperate, weren’t you?” Loki chuckled as he pressed as deep as he could. Already he could feel the tightening in his belly. This woman would be the end of him.

“I told you,” His new wife slurred, her walls clenching around him as his fingers toyed with her nipple. “Ah! Please...”

“Hush, my darling. We wouldn't want our hosts to know what we're up to, now would we?” He asked, rolling his hips into her slowly. His free hand circled her hips, pressing against her belly where his cock bulged. He exhaled against her skin, feeling his cock move inside her as she moved her hips impatiently.

“Loki, move,” she pleaded. Loki’s chuckle gave way to a groan when he obeyed, stroking her inner walls as he rolled his hips. A gush of arousal pooled between them, Loki’s thick cock squelching as he moved his hips with purpose. “I don’t think I can be quiet-” her words melted into a sob of pleasure as his cock stroked her g-spot. Loki adjusted the angle of the arm beneath her, long fingers covering her mouth. Claire grabbed at his arm with both hands, clutching him like a lifeline as each slow and steady thrust sent her higher and higher.

“Yes,” Loki gasped as her fingernails dug into his forearm. The walls of her plush heat were clenching around him, her body coiling tight like a spring as he pushed her toward the edge. “That's it,” he praised. “Mark me. I am yours, as you are mine.” He saw her eyes roll back as her body convulsed around him, and the choked noise that escaped from behind the hand he had over her mouth scorched him. He followed her over the edge, taking the flesh of her shoulder between his teeth to keep silent. She reached behind him to run her fingers through his hair, and he moved his arm to embrace her, leaving a line of kisses along her neck. “Are you alright?”

“Mm-hmm,” Claire nodded, her eyes beginning to droop with sleep. “I could fall asleep right here.” Claire groaned softly as she shifted beneath him. Loki huffed in amusement, smoothing her hair and kissing the soft skin it had covered.

“Is that so? With my cock still inside your cunt?” he smiled against her slick skin.

“I like it.”

“Really. I had no idea.” Loki snickered.

“Shhhhhh. Sleeping.” Claire pulled his arm tighter around her, wiggling deeper into his embrace and making him grunt. He nuzzled into the space between her shoulders, his lips leaving lazy kisses against the heated skin as she twined their fingers together. Sated and content, sleep took no time in reclaiming them both.

~~~~

Claire was beyond relieved when they finally arrived at the cottage at the end of their fifth day of travel. For all their advancements, Asgard had clearly never heard of high-speed rail, and she had quite a few words for the idiots who either A) hadn’t thought of it or B) had thought of it and decided nahh, we don’t need that.

But all her bitterness evaporated when Loki helped her out of the carriage and she got her first unobstructed view of the place.

“This is a remote mountaintop cottage?” she glanced to Loki, then back at the cottage. ‘Small fortress’ seemed more appropriate. There was a moat, for fucks sake. “I swear to Christ if there are alligators in there, I will get back in that carriage and leave.”

“I wouldn’t have expected you to be frightened of alligators.” Loki scoffed.

“I have seen those things eat people and I do not want to fuck with them; are there alligators, yes or no?” Claire squealed as Loki hefted her into his arms in a bridal carry.

“Yes,” he replied. “But take comfort in knowing they’ll eat me before they eat you.”

“Somehow I don’t feel better. Mochi!” the cat chirped as she chased a mouse across the drawbridge. Loki carried her across easily, letting her cling to him as they walked across.

“There, see? No alligators.” Claire narrowed her eyes at her new husband as he set her on her feet.

“Are there any alligators at all?”

“None whatsoever,” Loki admitted shamelessly. “It was impossible to resist teasing you.”

“You ass,” Claire shoved at him playfully. “That was mean.”

“God of mischief,” Loki shrugged. “Shall I give you a tour?” he asked suggestively.

“That depends, are there alligators on the tour?” Claire shrieked with laughter when Loki tugged her close and pulled her in for a kiss, nibbling at her bottom lip.

“Only me, I’m afraid. There are a number of guards, and Astrid and Ragna of course, but only I am allowed to bite you.”

“You’re still an ass.” Claire laughed as he wove their fingers together.

“But I’m yours.” Loki winked, leading her through the front door. Commotion could be heard at the end of the long hallway, and they followed the hall until it opened into a large common room, dominated by a large fireplace. Ragna stood at the fireplace, trying to start a fire in the hearth.

Long tables flanked the fireplace, with large double doors leading off beside the fireplace. To the right, a wall of tall windows flooded the room with natural light. Grey flagstones sat just beyond the double doors, a lovely patio area with benches and large flower pots. Off toward the left, Claire could just make out the shimmer of clear water.

“There’s a pool?!” Claire screeched excitedly, fingers soaking up the warmth from the outdoors as she pressed against the glass.

“Of course?” Loki chuckled. “There is also a library upstairs.” He gestured toward the stairs to their right. He led her upstairs to the landing, showing her the various rooms that branched off. There were two bedrooms with luxurious en suites, as well as a sitting room.

The library was magnificent. Hidden behind double doors, the bookshelves took up the entirety of the walls from floor to ceiling, with plush reading couches and a chandelier to give flickering candle light. A sliding ladder caught Claire’s eye, and her giddiness bubbled over as she climbed in to inspect the top shelves.

“Hey look, I’m taller than you.” she laughed, turning on the ladder to taunt her husband. Loki snorted, stepping closer to press flush against her.

“Do not get used to it,” he murmured, hands resting on the ladder by her hips as she brushed his hair out of his face. “You are quite short.”

“I am considered tall, thank you.”

“Yet you’re still shorter than me,” Loki grinned. “Ladder notwithstanding.” He grabbed her by waist when she jumped on him, winding her arms around his neck. The small of her back pressed against the couch when he kissed her soundly.

That was the start of Claire’s list of places she wanted to fuck Loki. The balcony outside the library quickly joined the list when they went out to enjoy the view.

~~~~

The next day

Claire woke in increments, her brain registering sensations before anything else. Comforting warmth. Sheets soft as could be. A strong arm holding her against hard muscles. She stretched out in Loki's grasp, her stiff limbs protesting against the movement after so long. Loki's arm tightened around her middle, pulling her into his chest. The cold tip of his nose nuzzled into her shoulder blades before he sighed in his sleep and was still once more. Claire yawned, burrowing deeper into the warmth they'd created before letting sleep take her again.

Some time later she opened her eyes, blinking against the blinding sun. Clearly Astrid had already been in the room to open the curtains and stoke the fire. Slow, steady breaths came from behind her, and Claire glanced over her shoulder at her new husband who was still fast asleep. Claire smiled fondly, briefly considering rolling over to face him before deciding she was content where she was.

“Are you going to roll over or just think about it?” Green eyes opened, his crooked smile making her belly flip.

“I didn't want to wake you,” Claire bit her lip as his hand sank further down her belly, fingertips grazing the ticklish skin at her hips. She turned to her other side, his hand coming to rest on her hip. The pad of his thumb drew lazy circles on her skin as she settled against him. “Hi.” Loki gave an amused huff as both his eyes opened again.

“Hello.” He lifted his elbow, creating space for her and inviting her closer. Claire slipped her arm beneath his and scooted closer, gliding her hand along the smooth skin of his back as she pressed her face into his chest. Deft fingers caressed her skin, trailing up her spine and setting her nerves ablaze. The sweet heat of desire ignited in her belly, making her shiver. His throaty chuckle rumbled deep in his chest as he tucked her against him, his head settling above hers on the pillow. Claire stretched, nestling against his chest as she let her eyes close. She was still so tired.

The hand she’d splayed on his back began to feel cold, exposed to the air in the room. Claire shifted the blanket so it covered his exposed skin and her hand.

“What was that for?” Loki murmured in the space between them.

“Didn't want you to get cold.” Claire said softly, her voice rough with sleep.

“Oh my darling,” Loki chuckled. “I don't get cold.”

“Oh,” Claire murmured, her voice muffled against his skin. “Okay baby.”

“Why do you call me that?” Loki asked softly. “I am not an infant.”

“I know that,” Claire laughed softly. “It's a term of endearment we use on Earth.”

“You call the people you care for infants?”

“I don't know why,” Claire giggled. “Do you not like it? I can call you something else.”

“Ordinarily I would not, but from you...I don't mind. Call me whatever you like, my darling.”

“I like when you call me that,” Claire murmured.

“Darling?”

“Yours.”

~~~~

Their first full day at the cottage was quiet and peaceful. Birds had nested outside the windows of their bedroom, and their cheerful song provided a lovely soundtrack to wake up to. They shared a late breakfast in the great hall by the fire before setting up camp in the library. Astrid brought them a light lunch to share, and sent them off with a basket of food when they left to explore the woods.

The afternoon heat chased them even under the canopy of trees, forcing them to relax in the shade beneath a tree. Loki spread a blanket on the soft grass, opening the basket to pull out snacks. Loki nearly dropped the container of strawberries in his hand when Claire’s blouse landed in his lap.

“Help me out of my pants?” she offered when he glanced over. “They’re stuck.” Loki swallowed the bite of strawberry in his mouth, eyes raking across her form as he fumbled over his words.

“Are they?” he asked, tongue lapping the sweet juice from his thumb before he set the berries aside. Her bare foot planted on his chest stopped him from attacking her. “Is that meant to stop me?”

“Noooo,” Claire giggled as he kissed the swell of her calf, fingers digging into the meat of her thigh before he pulled her closer. “You’re overdressed.”

“So I am.” Loki discarded his clothing swiftly, the strawberries abandoned as Claire wrapped her arms around him.

~~~~

Claire and Loki lay chest to chest on the blanket, sharing the strawberries as they basked naked in the shade.

“What convinced you to stay?” Loki asked softly as he fed Claire a strawberry. Claire savored the sweet, tart taste as she licked the juice from her lower lip.

“Besides the promise of this?” She ran an appreciative hand down his bare torso. Loki chuckled, sucking the strawberry juices from his fingers.

“Surely it was more than just me,” he trailed the backs of his fingers along her smooth curves. “As much as I would like to think it was.”

“You were a big part,” Claire replied sincerely as she turned to face him. “You going back to prison wouldn’t have been right. But I also think-” she poked him in the chest. “You deserve better than what you've been given,” She grabbed his chin between two fingers, pulling him down to kiss him slowly. “And I'd like to see you get it,” She murmured against his lips. An image of the pair of them bringing Asgard to its knees made Loki hum in pleasure. How was this delectable creature even real? “And I have to admit, the scary dog privilege is tops.” Claire sighed as she plucked a strawberry from the bowl. “Scary dog privilege?” Loki snorted. Claire giggled beside him, sharing a mischievous look.

“It's a silly saying we have back home. It means that people are less likely to mess with you if you have someone with you who looks scary. Or an actual scary dog.”

“I see,” Loki thought it was a strange thing, but most things Claire told him seemed strange. He took the bite of strawberry she offered, licking her fingers clean just to see the heat in her eyes. “Are you planning something devious?”

“Most likely. I kiiiinda have some unfinished business on Earth that I'd like to take care of,” Claire admitted sheepishly. “But with Odin's rule about only going back to earth once a year, I don't know that I'll be able to pull it off.”

“What sort of mischief are you up to, little wife?”

“I'll tell you about it someday,” Claire promised. “There’s no sense dwelling on it now.”

“Very well, I won't press you,” Loki offered her the last strawberry, holding it stead while she took a bite. “We should return. We’ve been gone for some time.”

“But it’s so nice having you all to myself.”

“It is,” Loki kissed her soundly, fingers doing their best to tame her wild hair. “But if we’re gone too long, someone will come looking, and then I shall be forced to commit murder when they see you naked.”

“I bet you offer to commit murder for all the girls.” Claire snickered as she pulled her pants back into place.

“I do not,” Loki scoffed. “I don’t care about them. I care about you.”

“You big softy,” Claire teased, squeezing him against her. “I’m telling everyone when we get back.”

“Don’t you dare!” Loki gasped. “I will have you know, madam, that I have a fearsome reputation to uphold.”

“Oooo I’m scared.”

“You should be,” Loki kissed her again, letting her turn him onto his back as he buried his hands in her hair. His groan morphed into a startled squawk when she began to tickle him, leaving him stuck on his back like a beetle as he came to his senses. Claire snagged her blouse from the blanket beside him and jumped to her feet. “Hey!” he shot up, spotting Claire’s naked back streaking through the greenery as she sped off.

“Catch me if you can! Last one back is a rotten egg!” she called gaily, her laughter evaporating like rain as she grew further away.

“What in Bor’s name…” Loki used his seidr to clothe himself, haphazardly shoving the blanket into the basket before tearing off after her. She wouldn’t escape so easily.

~~~~

The following day the skies opened and wind rattled the windows. Claire and Loki spent the day in the library, curled up together on the couch as they read.

~~~~

“What shall we do today?” Loki asked, his voice thick with sleep as he pulled her closer within the thicket of blankets.

“Hmm, I vote we stay here.”

“All day?” Loki chuckled, nuzzling against her cheek. “I hate to bear bad news, my darling, but if we wish to enjoy supper we need to replenish our stores.”

“Meaning what, exactly?”

“It means you’re going to have your first Asgardian hunt.”

They set off with a small group of the guards, armed with bows and arrows. Though Loki teased her, Claire successfully took down a small number of pheasants and a wild hog. Loki secured a stag, which along with the hog was being carried back to the cottage by the guards as he and Claire carried back the pheasants in a small sack.

“We can clean up in the outdoor bathing area,” Loki said as the cottage came into view. The idea of getting clean greatly appealed to Claire. They’d been out in the heat and the mud, thanks to yesterday’s rain, and she felt sticky and gross and tired. “It is just outside the great hall, beside the pool.”

“Join me?” Claire offered.

“In a moment,” Loki promised, tipping her chin up with a dirty finger so he could kiss her. “Our harvest needs to be recorded.”

“Don’t take too long, okay?”

“Of course.” another swift kiss to her lips and they parted ways, Loki disappearing inside while Claire sought the bathing area. She eyed the pool longingly as she passed it, finally coming across a stall with wooden walls. Stepping inside, Claire was delighted to see a shower. It was simple metal piping above a concrete slab floor with a drain and a bench, but a shower nonetheless!

Claire had just stepped under the spray when she heard familiar footsteps outside.

“Loki?”

“How are you my darling?” he asked gently. Claire did a quick assessment- her body was sore, both from the hunt and his attentions from this morning, but the hot water was already doing wonders.

“I’m fine.”

“Are you in any pain?” Loki asked as she wet her hair.

“No, I promise. I’m sore, but a good sore.” The door opened just enough for Loki to squeeze inside, the latch falling closed with a metallic clink. Loki looked exhausted as he began to strip, his filthy clothes joining hers on the bench. Claire turned away to scrub her face and lather her hair.

“It is strange.” he murmured softly as he followed the droplets of water on her skin with his eyes.

“What is?” Claire asked over her shoulder, hands wringing suds from her sodden hair.

“Just as you received a talk that was no doubt horrific before our nuptials, so did I,” Loki explained. “Thor was smug, of course. Smitten is not a word oft used to describe me, but he deemed it apt. Odin, however, spoke only of duty.”

“Eugh.” Claire cringed. Loki’s throaty laugh filled the steamy air.

“Indeed,” he agreed, his eyes roaming the planes of her back as his fingers ached to touch. Blue eyes beckoned him forward when she glanced at him over her shoulder. “This does not feel like duty.” His hands slid easily along her wet flesh as he pressed his chest against her back, holding her to him as he pressed his lips to her moistened neck.

“No it does not,” Claire sighed as she let her head fall back on his shoulder. His hardened cock pressed urgently against her ass, her pussy calling out for attention as his fingers roamed her wet flesh. “You’re distracting me again.”

“I am powerless to resist,” Loki’s tongue chased a water droplet along the seam of her neck, lips and teeth sealing around the flesh to tease a mark. “I beg forgiveness.”

“No you don’t!” Claire laughed, adoring the glide of his skin against hers. She reached between them, fingers wrapping around his heated length and making him groan. “You want to fuck me again.”

“I fear addiction is on the horizon,” warm breath caressed moist skin as Loki pressed a series of kisses along her neck. “I do so love when you fall apart for me.”

“I know you do,” Claire chuckled. “Are we gonna talk about your secret breeding kink?”

“Who said anything about ‘secret’?” Loki teased, fingers ghosting across her nipple and making her gasp. “I’ve long harbored a desire to fuck a woman full and see her grow round with my child. But not just any woman, of course. She had to be perfect,” one hand flattened over her belly, teasing the edge of the dark curls between her thighs. The other toyed with her nipple as she leaned against him, back bowing to press more fully into his hand. “And you. Are. Perfect.”

“I’ve thought about it too.” Blue eyes opened to meet his heated gaze. Loki’s brows rose in surprise.

“Have you?” he asked lowly, his eyes following the movement of her throat as she swallowed.

“More recently than usual,” Claire admitted. “Not that I’m ready-”

“Of course not,” Loki agreed hastily. “We agreed to wait.”

“Yes,” Claire said hurriedly. “But just...you know...I like the idea.”

“I look forward to it,” Loki nipped at her earlobe, his large hands grabbing handfuls of her plump buttocks as she giggled. “I shall stop distracting you and let you get clean.”

“How kind of you,” Claire snickered as Loki brought both her hands up to press soft kisses to her knuckles. “I do need my hands in order to do that.”

“Apologies, my lady,” Loki chuckled, making a show of releasing her hands. “Please, continue.” his heated gaze trailed over her wet body as she scrubbed herself clean with the sponge.

“You know how we agreed that men from Earth generally suck?” Claire’s words pulled him from his appreciation.

“Yes?”

“They’re very...dishonest. They say what they want to get what they want. You, on the other hand-”

“I am direct.”

“I was going to say earnest. You mean the things you say, and I appreciate that about you.”

“Everyone is always so surprised to learn that I do not lie,” Loki shook his head. “I merely can tell when they are told.”

“I didn’t say I was surprised, hot stuff. Just that I appreciate you,” Claire replied. “You have no reason to lie to me, just as I have no reason to lie to you.”

“Because you’ve already gotten everything you wanted?” Loki teased. Claire smiled as he stepped under the spray with her.

“Something like that.”

~~~~

“Loki?” Claire murmured in the dark, knowing full well that her husband was still awake.

“Hmm?” Loki cracked an eye from his pillow to look at her.

“What does it feel like?” Claire asked as she turned toward him, pulling the covers up to her chin. “Your magic.”

“My seidr?” Loki murmured sleepily. “It’s a sort of tingling sensation.”

“Like pins and needles, when your foot falls asleep?” Claire asked.

“Yes…but no. Here,” Loki said, lifting his hand to show her. Claire reached out and flattened her palm against his in the darkness. His hand dwarfed hers, his long slender fingers extending past hers and his palm completely covering her own. She could see a faint green glow coming from his hand and feel the soothing heat against her skin. “Feel that?” he asked softly, making his seidr slowly caress its way down her arm.

“Yeah…that’s really-” Claire giggled, fidgeting wildly as his seidr grazed her side. “Stop, that tickles!” she protested, laughing harder as the sensation found her most sensitive patch of skin.

“Something wrong, darling?”

“You ass!” Claire slapped him on the shoulder as he laughed. “You’re doing that on purpose!”

“Yes I am,” he shot her a shameless grin. “What’s that phrase you’re so fond of? ‘Sorry, not sorry.’”

“Quit stealing my catch phrases.” Claire grumped, shoving him onto his back. Loki chuckled as he let himself be pushed.

“Slytherin,” Loki reminded her as she straddled his lap. “Are you certain I’m not a Ravenclaw?” his hands came to rest on her thighs as she leaned over him, rocking her hips against his and making him gasp. Claire noted his reaction with satisfaction, a sly smirk on her face.

“Loki, we’ve been through this. Your mother is a Ravenclaw. You and I are certified Slytherins.”

“And what of Thor?” Loki goaded, his eyes falling half-closed as she ran appreciative hands up his chest.

“Thor? Please,” Claire scoffed as she leaned over him, her long hair falling in a curtain around them. “He’s such a Gryffindor. The lamest of the lame.” That earned her a low laugh and his fingers in her hair, anchoring her mouth to his as he kissed her possessively. Her brain made its usual note of surprise at how soft his hair was when she mirrored his actions, letting him turn her onto her back and nestle his hips between her thighs. He clutched her possessively as he dropped his weight on her, his body pinning hers into the bed. She could feel every inch of him, pressed against her as intimately as he was, and damn did she want him.

~~~~

“Have you ever had a lap dance?” Claire asked one afternoon. They were lounging by the pool, both of them practically naked as they basked in the sun. Loki was consumed by a book while Claire dozed on a settee. She’d been awake for some time, just watching him read. The clean lines of muscle glistening in the sunlight, the way the afternoon heat brought a flush to his cheeks, the veins in his arm as he propped up his sharp-enough-to-cut-glass jaw in his large hand. Remembering the feel of those hands had Claire squeezing her thighs together.

“I’m not familiar with that style of dance,” Loki replied absently. “Is it common on Midgard?”

“Very. Want me to show you?” Something in her tone made Loki glance up. Meeting her mischievous gaze, Loki was compelled to close his book. He set his copy of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone aside and leaned forward in his chair.

“Please,” he asked. “Are the steps difficult?”

“Not very, but you don’t have any.”

“It is a dance and yet I have no steps?”

“Yep. Just stay right where you are, mischief,” she winked at him. “I’ll be right back.” Intrigued, Loki’s eyes followed her pert behind until she disappeared inside. He settled back into his seat to wait, eyes falling closed as all manner of possibilities filled his head.

“Did you fall asleep, old man?” Claire scoffed when she returned.

“Of course not,” Loki replied with eyes still closed. “I was just imagining…” he trailed off when he opened his eyes to see her standing in front of him, clad in black lace lingerie. His mouth went dry as his eyes caressed her curves, all thoughts disappearing when he spied the string of pearls between her thighs.

“Imagining?” Claire prompted, smiling when he gave no response. “Did you want to see the back?” she asked knowingly. Loki swallowed, desperately trying to form words.

“Please,” Claire giggled, drawing her long hair over her shoulder before she turned. Loki groaned with want at the sight, fingers itching to work between the ribbon work decorating the sheer black lace concealing her body from him. Not one to deny himself his desires, Loki did just that. He wove his finger in between the criss-crossing satin ribbon at her lower back. Claire laughed as he tugged her closer, a squeak of giddy surprise escaping her as she let herself be pulled. His other hand wrapped around her thighs, squeezing the soft skin as his mouth latched onto the delicate curve of her hip. “What are the pearls for?” he asked, eyes fixated on the colorful artwork on her skin.

“Sensation- oh!” Loki heard her fingers move against the glass tabletop, felt her legs begin to tremble as he rubbed a knuckle along the string of pearls between her thighs. He could feel her body responding to him already, the tantalizing wetness growing slick behind the thin fabric of her panties. “Did you still want...the dance?” she managed to ask.

Oh the dance! How he longed to simply sit enraptured by her performance, watching her perfect body move in all its glory. Orchestrated destruction meant for him and him alone. The possessive beast in his belly reared its ugly head, demanding sacrifice. Yes, he wanted the dance.

“What does one do during these...dances?” He released his hold on her, allowing her to collect herself. Loki’s eyes darted from her ass to her breasts as she turned to face him.

“Well, in the strip clubs on Earth, you’re not allowed to touch the dancers. But I don’t have that rule.” One small foot stepped between his thigh and the arm of the chair as she climbed into his lap. She surged her hips forward, pressing her lithe body against his.

“Have you given lap dances before?” Loki blurted, his attention focused on her lace-clad breasts as she thrust them in his face. She was everywhere- he could smell her perfume and the sweat on her skin, feel her hands on his chest and her thighs as they clenched against his. To think that mortal men could simply pay for such an experience-

“Just once, for a job.” Claire replied, hands coming to rest on his shoulders as she lowered her core onto his thighs. She rotated her hips, forcing a gasp from him and making his fingers dig into her ass cheeks. “He was not nearly as attractive as you are.” she muttered as she leaned back, letting him see all of her body on display for him. The metal of her piercings sparkled in the sunlight and his mouth watered. Claire’s hips rolled, the pearls kneading along his aching cock and making his thighs shake. She did it again, drawing a ragged moan from his lips.

“Is-that so?” Claire rose up to press against him from navel to nose, fingers brushing his hair back from his face, blue eyes piercing through him as she met his gaze.

“Tell me I’m lying.” she challenged, a small smile teasing her full lips.

“You’re not,” Claire giggled as she leaned in to kiss him. Loki’s hands settled on her hips, bucking against her to torment her with the pearls in turn. She gasped into his mouth as the pearls teased her clit, her fingers digging into his shoulders with a moan. “I must...admit…”

“What?”

“I’m glad I am not the poor rube on Midgard you danced for.”

“Why’s that?” Claire asked, letting her head fall back as another whirl of her hips teased her with the outline of his cock. Loki sank his teeth into her neck as strong arms anchored her over his lap.

“Because unlike him, I can touch you,” he nipped at her ear lobe, fingers toying with the pearls in between them. “Lean back and let your husband see you,” He kept her steady as she obeyed, leaning back onto the table on her elbows. He drew her panties to the side to expose the wet and needy flesh beneath. “Gods, woman, you are magnificent.” he praised. His thumb dipped within her folds before it found her clit, working tight circles around the bud and making her whine.

“Loki,” she pleaded, hips following the motion of his thumb. “Don’t tease. That’s my job.”

“Forgive me,” Loki murmured as he worked two thick fingers into her pussy. Her head fell back as she moaned, her juices coating the digits as her legs quivered. His thumb began to circle her clit, and Claire’s fingers squeaked on the glass table. “Are you going to come for me, little wife?”

“Rather come on your dick-” Claire gasped.

“That is easily arranged. Can you stand?” he helped her to her feet, making sure she was steady before he let go of her hands. His cock throbbed as he dropped his gaze to her backside, fingers curling inside the skimpy fabric. “I am very tempted to rip these off of you.”

“They were a gift,” Claire protested. “From Tony Stark.” she added quietly. Loki huffed in amusement as he fingered the edge of the fabric.

“All the more reason,” he muttered. “But the design is rather fetching…yes, I think I’d rather fuck you with them on.” strong hands on her hips turned her away from him, his fingers sinking back into her pussy as the other hand pulled the panties aside. Claire grabbed the table for support, pleasure making her knees weak. Loki kissed down her spine, spreading her cheeks before plunging his tongue deep in her pussy. Claire’s top half met the table as her body sagged, overcome with pleasure and desire.

“Loki-” she pleaded. “Please-” Loki straightened, keeping the panties pulled aside as he fisted his cock. They moaned in unison as he fed his cock into her weeping pussy, pinning her between the table and his muscular body.

“Gods, you feel amazing-” Loki watched his cock disappear into her heat, his belly already beginning to tighten. Her walls rippled around him, silken muscles gripping him tight. Loki put more of his weight onto her as he swore, his stomach molding to the curve of her back. Half crazed with lust, Loki pressed as deep as he could, groaning in tandem with Claire as she wriggled her hips between him and the table.

Claire’s breathless plea spurred him into action. His hands curled around her shoulders, using them as anchors as he slammed his hips into hers.

The legs of the table screeched on the flagstones as Loki pounded into her from behind. Every thrust drove the breath from her body, the pearls driving her mad with added sensation on her clit and labia. Claire lifted her legs, wrapping around his thighs and holding him closer as he rocked his hips into hers.

The change in angle had her screaming as she came, gushing onto the flagstones beneath them. Loki grunted, hips pumping his spend deep inside her. A final shudder caused some to spill out onto the flagstones between his feet.

“Holy...shit.” Claire managed. Loki rubbed her thighs, his palms gliding along her skin as he helped guide her feet back to the ground.

“That is...quite a dance.” They both began to laugh as Loki stripped his clothing from his overheated body. Claire sighed as she watched him strip, fanning her flushed face with her hand.

“Loki?”

“Yes, darling?”

“You should fuck me in the pool next.” She undid the string keeping her halter in place before pulling it over her head and tossing it in his lap. “Pretty please?”

“Are you unsatisfied? Still?” Loki teased, but there was no venom in his voice. “I could perhaps be persuaded,” he glanced down at the material still clinging to her hips. “Toss us those as well.”

“Is that all it takes?” Claire laughed. “Come take them off for me.” she bit her lip, fingers teasing the fabric as she inched closer to the pool.

“Do as you are told, wife.” Loki’s eyes followed the movement, his cock already aching to be inside her again.

“Make me. Husband,” Claire shrieked as Loki lifted her off her feet, tossing her over his shoulder. “Loki, what are you doing?” she began to laugh as he caged her in with his arms, walking them toward the pool. “Loki, no!”

“Oh yes!”

“Loki! Ah!” Claire’s shout was cut short as they splashed into the icy cold water. They tumbled below the surface, Loki steering her upright to help her reach the surface. Claire wiped the water from her eyes once she found the edge of the pool, opening her eyes to see Loki surface, wet and disheveled and still so unfairly hot. His hard body pressed her against the unforgiving wall of the pool, water glistening along the hard ridges of muscle in his arms as he caged her in.

“Do you know what we should do tomorrow?” Loki asked.

“Nope. What?”

“Stark’s gift had other items like what you just wore. Not just clothes, but also various...apparatuses. I’d like you to show me what each of them does.”

“It says on the box-”

“I’m not asking for a reading, little wife. I’m asking for a demonstration.”

“I’m pretty sure I’ll die if I orgasm that many times in one day.” Claire joked.

“Ah,” Loki grinned. “I don’t want you to finish- there are many, many items in the box. I want you…” his voice grew dark and deep as he spoke softly into her ear. He nipped at her neck, sucking a mark into the curve as chills erupted all over her body. “To show me how they work until you are on the precipice. And when you have shown me every. Last. One. I will give you what you desire. Right here, in this pool.”

“Won’t-um…” Claire’s eyes darted toward the cottage. “Won’t people see-”

“Not if they wish to keep their eyes in their heads. I don’t mind at all if they hear you, little wife, and they will,” Loki grinned. “But only I get to see you.”

~~~~

The next day

Life as a royal servant was never idle. Busy? Always. Dull? Often. Being the only staff on hand during the honeymoon of the prince and princess royal was a high honor, and full of inadvertent eavesdropping.

“Gods, again?” Astrid murmured to herself as the grunts and groans they were meant to ignore began once again. The prince and princess had been sequestered all day- as the days waned on their honeymoon they seemed to be even more amorous. She could hardly fault the young couple- to be young and in love and on one's honeymoon was an experience unto itself. Gods knew she likely would have done the same if she’d ever had the chance. With luck the princess would be carrying an heir soon- if she wasn’t already. “We should prepare something.”

“What would you suggest?” Ragna asked, her question punctuated by a high-pitched moan. “Cheese and meats?” A clatter came from the next room as the amorous couple knocked something onto the floor. Ragna blushed furiously as the prince gave a wordless shout. She'd become more familiar with the sounds of pleasure than she liked, but she supposed it was nice the couple was enjoying themselves. How many times had they enjoyed each other since waking? Ragna could scarcely be relied upon for an accurate record, as the moans and pleas seemed to blend together in an endless stream of noise.

“Perhaps something more...”

“Loki!” The princess wailed, her cry accompanied by the prince's approving groan.

“Substantial?” Ragna asked awkwardly.

“Best to wait until-” the bed began to strike the wall, the rhythm accompanied by indecipherable, breathless words of praise from the prince.

“Fuck- fuck!” The princess wailed, her words melting into a ragged scream as the prince growled out his completion.

“Until they tire themselves out.” Astrid said, her soft voice seeming far too loud in the ensuing silence.

Unbeknownst to the long suffering staff, they were in for a very long night.

~~~~

“I can’t believe it’s time to leave already,” Claire said mournfully as she and Loki enjoyed their last hours basking by the pool. “Please tell me we can come back sometime.”

“Of course,” Loki replied as he tangled their hands together. “There are many places I would like to take you.”

“And I’m excited to see them,” Claire pressed a kiss to his lips. “I like traveling with you.”

“Because I spoil you with orgasms?”

“It doesn’t hurt,” Claire giggled, her pussy clenching at the memory of him using all those sex toys on her. Loki was a very enthusiastic learner. “But I do in fact, like you.”

“And I you. Has our percentage increased at all in our time here?” Loki asked, kissing her temple as he tucked her closer into his side. “I would like to hope I’ve done better than seventy percent.” Claire snuggled closer with a laugh.

“Oh, we’re easily at one hundred percent. We’re gonna be just fine, mischief.”

~~~~

Claire and Loki returned to the city with little pomp, arriving late in the afternoon after a long five days of traveling. Claire was ready to collapse in her new bed beside Loki. They’d been gone for a month, but she still remembered the lavishly soft sheets fondly. She was excited to settle into this new adventure and build a life with Loki.

The newlyweds were greeted by an elated Frigga, who insisted they tell her (almost) everything they’d done on their honeymoon. She wanted to know all of Claire’s opinions of the decor- things Claire frankly did not pay much attention to unless Loki fucked her on or near them.

“Now that you’re back, I would love to get your perspective on new draperies. It is so challenging to make these decisions alone.” Frigga said mournfully.

“Oh, uh...sure. I’d be happy to help.” she cast a pleading look at Loki, who thankfully understood and swooped in to rescue her.

“Why don’t we have tea tomorrow, mother? We are rather tired-”

“Of course, of course! Please, take a few days to settle back in before you go back to your duties. Tea can wait.” She gave Claire’s arm a reassuring squeeze.

Claire and Loki navigated the halls toward their chambers arm in arm. Ragna and Astrid had already returned and unpacked their things, so all they had to do was shed their travel clothes and collapse on the lounge in exhaustion. Astrid brought them plates of food so they could eat in privacy.

Comfortable silence reigned as Loki pulled Claire’s legs across his lap, absently massaging her calves as he stared at the fire. Claire dozed peacefully, too stubborn to get off the couch and go to bed. Astrid and Ragna finished tidying up and were about to leave for the night. Loki jostled his lightly snoring wife.

“Claire-”

“I’m up!” she bolted awake, rubbing her tired eyes as Loki got to his feet.

“Go to bed, little wife. I’ll be right behind you.” He’d been ignoring the elephant in the room- the assuredly humongous stack of paperwork that no doubt awaited him on his desk. He should at least attempt to make some sort of sense of it tonight.

Claire rose up on her tiptoes, hands pulling him close for a kiss. “Come be my soup spoon?”

“I should at least pretend to make an effort to sort my work,” he replied, hugging her close as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “I won’t be long.”

“If you take too long I’m hogging the bed.” Claire threatened, preening when he kissed her forehead.

“I won’t!” he laughed. “Go to bed, menace.”

“Alright, fine!” Claire stepped out of his embrace. “Enjoy your paperwork. You could enjoy these instead,” she flashed her tits, giving him a cheesy smile. “Just sayin’.”

“Woman-”

“I’m going, I’m going,” Claire stuck her tongue out at him as she passed. Loki’s arm swept out and pulled her back, capturing her lips as she fell into him. His hand worked inside her shirt, cupping her breast and making her gasp into his mouth. He released her gently, mourning the loss of her warmth as he stepped away. “You’re really gonna go do paperwork after that?”

“The downside of marrying a prince, little wife. There are always responsibilities.”

“You did warn me,” she shrugged. “Just don’t stay up too late, okay?”

“I promise.” Claire disappeared into the bedroom with Ragna as he made his way into his study. Astrid was straightening a pile of papers on his desk.

“Shouldn’t you be in bed by now, Astrid?”

“We both should, Your Majesty, if you’re asking my opinion,” the older woman replied. “I did find some paperwork while unpacking your things, and placed them here on this stack.” Loki glanced at the stack the woman had rested her hand on. He didn’t recognize it, nor had he taken any work with him.

“Thank you, Astrid. Good night.”

“Good night, Your Majesty.” the woman closed the door behind her, leaving Loki alone with the mountain of paper.

Sighing heavily, Loki bridged his hands behind his head as he leaned back in his seat. The mountain in front of him was intimidating and he would much rather be in bed with his wife. But he knew he’d never be able to sleep without at least getting a start on it.

He would just sort it. Sparse out what needed review, what needed his signature, what was drivel.

He decided to start with the mystery papers Astrid had found.

Already weary, he pulled the folder toward him and flipped it open. His own face stared back at him- gaunt, emaciated, but still his face. He recognized the glass tank from S.H.I.E.L.D.s floating fortress in one photo, the Chitauri speeder in another. Behind the photos were print outs of tales from survivors. A circle was drawn around a story from a woman he’d pushed from the path of falling rock. Notes in block lettering asked questions to whomever looked at the file: -DRUGS? -NOT SLEEPING?

There was only one person who would have a file such as this. And she was asleep in his bed.

Loki’s stomach dropped as he realized the true purpose behind Claire’s journey to Asgard.

He’d been such a fool. It had all been a lie.

She did not care for him, not truly. She wanted to use him- though for what he couldn’t fathom.

How had she done it? How had she managed to lie tohim?! Sweat beaded at Loki’s temples as he flushed with anger. A block of writing on the back of a page caught his eye, frowning as he pulled the paper closer. Two columns of words with a line drawn between them.

Propping his head in his shaking hand, he scanned his eyes down the columns.

VOLATILE

LIKES SNAKES/STABBING

SUPERIORITY COMPLEX

The column beside it had fully different words:

ASSHOLE

POETRY

THOUGHTFUL

The word ‘asshole’ had several circles drawn around it. Below the second column, Claire had scrawled ‘ANNOYING’ in her block letters.

She thought him annoying? She was annoying, with her poor manners and ridiculous slang phrases. A blast of seidr sent papers flying in every direction, spurred by his frustration. Loki reached into a side drawer for the miniature cask of mead he kept tucked away. He was not much for drinking but he felt it was needed. His stomach was already a mess anyway, what more could it hurt?

He growled through the burn as he swallowed the mead.

What in Bor’s name was he supposed to do?

He could kill her. She couldn’t manipulate him if she was dead.

But despite his anger and humiliation, he did not want to. Pathetic as he was, he genuinely did care for her. How could he have been so stupid?!

He couldn’t kill her, not if he wanted to go on living his life. He’d end up in the dungeons again, or worse, the executioner’s block. There was no tangible way to remove her from his life- they’d both signed that damned treaty and there was no getting out of it now that they’d been wedded and bedded.

Bile threatened to make him vomit as he thought about all the times they’d been intimate. Had that been an act too? She’d certainly distracted him with her pierced nipples and saucy under clothing. He took another drink of the mead, letting the burn soothe his hurt.

He wanted her gone. Her chambers from before the wedding would have to be far away enough. Downing the mead, he refilled his glass and trudged to the bedroom. The door creaked slightly as he stepped inside, the low light from the dying fire casting elongated shadows.

Her familiar shape lay in his bed, curled into a ball as she clutched his pillow. He gave a snort; how had she expected him to sleep?

She didn’t. Everything she’s done has been to lull me into a false sense of security.

From the beginning, she’d played him for a fool. Thor must have told her how alienated he felt, how isolated. Any idiot could have pulled his strings like she did, and he was stupid enough to believe she was genuine.

His glass burst into shards in his hand, cutting his palm and startling Claire awake.

“Loki? You okay?”

“Do I look alright?” he hissed, nursing his cut hand as blood and alcohol dripped onto the floor.

“You’re bleeding.” Claire climbed out of bed, walking past him to the bathroom. Loki heard her run water. She reappeared a moment later, offering him a wet cloth. He pulled away like she’d tried to burn him.

“I don’t need your pity.”

“Loki, look at me,” Claire said, her voice soft and soothing. “Can you tell me what happened? You were fine when I went to bed.”

“Oh yes, I’m fine!” Loki hissed. “As are you, since your plan has obviously worked so well!”

“What plan?” Claire asked, eyes darting down to his bleeding hand. “Will you please let me clean that?”

“Do not touch me!” Loki snarled, pushing her away. “You have done more than enough damage-”

“What are you talking about?” Claire asked, once again using that annoyingly caring tone.

“You know damn well what I am talking about- at least have the decency to admit it.”

“I can’t admit to something I haven’t done,” Claire said calmly. “How much have you had to drink? Is it that bad?” She had no frame of reference for his workload, but she also didn’t know Loki to drink often.

“Yes,” Loki admitted hollowly, allowing his melancholy to overwhelm him. “Which is why-”

“Here, step back,” Claire ushered him away from the broken glass. “Why don’t you sit down so you don’t cut your feet?” she steered him toward the bed, her grip growing stronger when he resisted.

“Woman-” she gave him a little push, releasing him as he sat on the edge of the bed.

“I’ll be right back.” she disappeared from the room, no doubt going to summon Astrid or Ragna. Loki fumed in silence until she returned. “Let me get something to clean up the glass and then we’ll clean your hand. Have you seen Mochi?” Loki huffed, then glanced over his shoulder to see the peacefully snoring cat occupying the bed.

“She is fine.”

“That’s good. Tiny paws and broken glass do not mix. So-” his annoying wife heaved a sigh. “Are you going to tell me what happened?”

“What?”

“You’re not usually one to drink, but you’re drunk. You’re stressed about something-”

“You know this because you know me so well?” Loki asked angrily. “You think you know everything about me-”

“No, of course not,” Claire replied as he got to his feet. “Loki, just sit down, I’ll-”

“DO NOT TELL ME WHAT TO DO!”

“I don’t want you to get hurt!”

“Care about me, do you?” Loki laughed darkly, taking a step toward her. “You care so much!” Another step. His dagger appeared in his hand, and the soft light in Claire’s eyes hardened. “Stop pretending, you little charlatan, I know.”

“Loki, back off or I will defend myself.”

“Oh, please do,” another step had her back pressed against the wall. “Then I can claim self-defense-”

“Forgive the intrusion, Your Majesties, I came as soon as I-” Astrid stopped short when she saw the scene before her. The princess was backed into a corner, Loki’s dagger glinting menacingly in the firelight.

Claire seized the opportunity, shoving the hand holding the dagger aside, sending it clattering to the floor. She punched Loki in the jaw, grabbing him by the arm and twisting, ducking into a roll and sending him flying over her head. Astrid screamed as Loki struck the wall, Mochi yowled in fright as the loud sound woke her. The guard from outside the door came barreling in as Claire was getting to her feet.

“What in Odin’s name is going on?”

“I think the prince had too much to drink,” Claire explained. “I gave him a warning to leave me alone and he wouldn’t-”

“Playing the victim, are you?” Loki ground out as he got to his feet. “I never put a hand on you.”

“You would have.” Claire said bitterly. The guard looked at Astrid, who looked panic-stricken at best.

“You had your dagger out, sire. She had no weapon at all.”

“Clearly she doesn’t need one!” Loki argued.

“I asked you to back off!” Claire shouted over him. “Is this why you don’t drink; because you turn into-”

“A monster?” Loki guessed. “Isn’t that what you wanted?!”

“Wait, what?” Claire stopped short. “What are you-”

“You know damn well,” Loki interrupted her. “And I will not suffer you to be anywhere near me. You will return to the chambers you lived in before we married.”

“But-”

“Let us be honest, I am a very busy man, and you will only be underfoot.”

“Okay, so I’m new to this, but-”

“I will not have time to coddle you!” Loki sneered. Claire stepped away from him, hurt clear on her face.

“Why are you acting like this? That’s not what you said before!” she hissed. “I’m not expecting you to coddle me, but you did say you would help me. Now you’re just kicking me out? What the fuck?! What am I supposed to do?!”

“I could not care less how you spend your days, as long as they do not intersect with mine,” Loki snarled. “You got what you wanted, and now you must deal with the fallout.”

“I don’t understand-”

“I will summon you when I have need of you,” Loki said dismissively. “If ever.”

“And when will that be?” Claire said sharply. “When it’s time to have a baby?”

“If that is what you need to believe,” Loki shrugged. “I will have your things returned to you.”

“Fine. Be a dick,” Claire scoffed in disbelief. “So glad I stuck around for this.” She moved past him toward the bed.

“Did you not hear me? GET OUT!”

“I’m taking my cat before you try to kill her too, you paranoid sack of shit!” Claire shouted back at him. “Astrid, please clean up the glass before he hurts himself even more.”

Loki let her storm out, relieved to finally be alone. Ever since he found that file-

Tears stung his eyes as he made his way to the bathroom to clean his hand, his legs heavy with the weight of defeat. He’d been such a fool. For all her words and actions, she’d wanted nothing more than to use him.

Never again.

Loki couldn’t believe she’d managed to fool him- not once had he sensed even a hint of a lie.

Whatever trap lay in wait for him, sooner or later Claire would make her move. And when she did, he would destroy her.

[xmissrogersx]

“Cinnamon Girl” | Javier Peña

tags | javier pena x female reader. Fluff. Mental issues. Latina reader.

My writing is entirely my own. Any adaptation and/or copy is forbidden.

I hope you are enjoying my stories! U help me a lot if you give me a ♡! All the love.

The morning at the DEA office was peaceful and undisturbed, oddly enough. Steve and Javier had gone to do an inspection of the center along with most of the staff and I was to take care of the report to present it to Carrillo as soon as possible.

I sighed calmly. It was those moments when I was able to find some peace in spite of what we dealt with on a daily basis. Just me and my background music.

-You almost hit me with the door, you idiot.

Goodbye beautiful stillness, and hello unbridled chaos.

-Hey, Priscilla, would you listen to these recordings I made of the witnesses? I don't understand shit of what they say....

Hello to Steve's requests, who doesn't spend a minute learning Spanish.

It sounded like they had found a massacre at the hands of Escobar based on the commotion that had been going on in a minute.

I nodded biting my lip.

-No problem —I sighed, but now with a bit of trepidation as I looked at the 8 cassettes he had given me. La puta madre.

-Cortez, I need you to transcribe this... —sheets and sheets fell like mountains in front of me.

-What is this? -I asked but I didn't get an answer because I couldn't even see who had done it.

-The report as soon as possible, Cortez —Carrillo walked across the room to his office.-And don't omit the witness statements.

I began to feel short of breath and tried to count mentally, but the hustle and bustle in the office only worsened my condition. Priority list. Yes, that's it. Recordings, notes, report to Carrillo. Recordings, notes, report...

-Hey...

-What?! —I shouted so loudly that the rest of my colleagues turned to see me, or rather to see us.

When I looked up I saw Javier who was in front of me with a frown on his face and the rest of the DEA with their eyes on me. Great, yet another reason to want the earth to swallow me up. Tears threatened to fall down my face. I saw in front of me he noticed and tried to get closer, and I couldn't bear to be seen that way.

So I ran. I ran to the bathroom. How stupid I felt. When I tried to close the door, an arm stopped me.

-Hermosa, let me in —Javier's voice sounded from the other side.

-No...please, I can... —I said breaking on the last word, to which he with a little force opened the door.

I felt I had no strength to defend myself. My hands were shaking and I couldn't stand up, making me feel more embarrassed.

But in a second, I felt how his arms picked me up from the floor to what I supported and clung to his neck, as if he was the only life preserver in the middle of my storm.

-Javi...

-Shh.

The whole office looked at us dumbfounded, but it didn't matter. The only thing that mattered was to concentrate on inhaling Javier Peña's aroma. Cigarettes, whiskey and a slight hint of cinnamon. I smiled foolishly, as I confirmed that he eat’s for breakfast the cookies I left on his desk.

-Finish the report, cabron, she takes the rest of the day. And anyone who has a problem has to deal with me.

Murphy just nodded with a concerned look. I knew he didn't really want to burden me with extra weight.

He drove to the entrance of his apartment, and the moment he got out of the car, he quickly took me back into his arms. At another time I would have complained, but I felt I didn't have the strength to argue with him, and because I loved being carried that way.

He deposited me on the couch letting me lie down and proceeded to take off his bulletproof vest and walked over to me and tucked a lock of hair behind my ear.

-Would you like some tea? -he asked, to which I tried to contain my laughter.

-You never drink tea.

I closed my eyes, letting the tears I had been holding back escape and only Javi acting that way could make them cascade down my cheeks.

-Vida mía, don't cry —he said, kissing my forehead.

-Everyone thinks I'm weak and weepy.

-No, no...

-The whole DEA saw how I ran away, Javi. And not even that I'm an agent, for God's sake, I'm a useless attempt at a journalist who only has to make reports with what others tell her. I have to work twice as hard, since I'm not even allowed to participate in a minimum of one case. I’m useless.

-I didn't know you felt that way —I nodded, staring at the bracelet I had been given for my birthday.

He sat down next to me, then lifted me slightly and sat me on his lap. A silence echoed and as I looked up and saw his thoughtful face. I knew he was debating in his mind.

-This is what we're going to do, you're going to come with me on the next raid we have and you can actually participate, but on the condition that you wear a vest and helmet.

I smiled and pounced on him spreading little kisses all over his face, wishing this moment would last into eternity.

For the first time someone is hugging me without hurting me.

[oillydiya]

Things Between Us | Cillian Murphy x OC

Chapter 4 : Visit the Performance

Summary: Sansa, a 26-year-old graduate student, who unexpectedly encounters a twist of fate when she comes across an actor she never knew before!

A group of five people, who had just met moments ago, left the restaurant and proceeded straight to the apartment of strange the young woman.

“My apartment is not far away. Walk three blocks, and you’re there,” Sansa informed them.

“Okay.”

“May I ask? You seem very close to the owner of that shop,” Stephen inquired.

“Yes. My parents always took me to eat here when I was a child,” Sansa gestured to him to measure her height.

“Ever since your guys passed away, I haven’t been able to do much. I come back to this shop often, so each time I come, Mr. Louis is especially kind to me. Sounds like I have some special privileges like that.” She laughed, half-guilty.

Cillian was shocked by what he heard. He felt sad and wanted to express his condolences to her.

“We are sorry. About your parents,” he turned to express his condolences.

“Thank you. I can come to terms with it now.” The woman’s eyes softened, but her face still wore a smile.

“I heard you say, are you majoring in art?” Finn asked curiously.

“Actually, I studied for two master’s degrees. majoring in psychology, I just finished the course a month ago. And an art major that is about to be graduated.”

“Wow, you’re really great,” Finn praised.

“It’s worth studying hard like this,” Joe added.

“For me, it’s not that heavy. But it’s quite stressful. I think a master’s degree is a lot more relaxed than a bachelor’s degree.”

“Really?! And what did you study before?” Finn asked.

“Ah… don’t think I’m crazy,” the girl said amusedly. If they knew what she had studied, that might make them look at her differently.

“Oh, of course not,” they replied in unison.

“I’m studying for three bachelor’s degrees at the same time,” she revealed.

“Ha!” they shocked.

“First I studied architecture, second I studied history, and last I studied law,” Instantly, she observed the expressions on each person’s face. They all opened their eyes wide, their mouths agape, expressing complete surprise.

Cillian turned his head and looked at the woman for a moment. It’s true that she seems intelligent. But studying for three degrees, and I’m finishing two more. That made him quite surprised. With a beautiful woman who studies a lot like this.

“That’s a lot,” Cillian looked at her in surprise.

“Yes, it is very tiring and heavy. It took me five years to complete the entire course. And damn! I feel like I’m going to hell.” The girl cursed and complained at the end. She turned around and made a crumpled face, showing the four of them how terrible it was at that time.

“You’re really cool. I’ve never met anyone who studied as many classes at once and graduated as quickly as you. How did you do it?” Stephen praised.

“Ah… It’s quite complicated. I think I was lucky to make it through.”

“No, you’re very good,”

Sansa nodded in thanks in response to the compliment. She felt like they were looking at her like she was some kind of freak. The young woman was not at all surprised by their attitude. She just felt nervous about being watched. The reason why she chose to study so many things at once like that? The reason was that she wanted to avoid the pain of losing her parents altogether!

“We’re here. My apartment.”

The woman picked up the key card and opened the door, leading them inside her apartment, or you can call it a penthouse because the entire floor was just her room. Located in the heart of London in the most expensive area here.

The exterior looked simple and elegant in the old English style, undoubtedly expensive. But because the young woman wanted a room according to her imagination and it had to be in the heart of the city, paying over twenty million pounds was no problem for her at all.

Sansa decorated her apartment in loft style with an old English twist. Her room was over 3800 square meters and 20 meters high because it was connected to the roof of the apartment. It was like a small factory hall. The top was wide open with windows allowing light to shine throughout the room from both the top of the building and the side windows, making it look classic and elegant at the same time. The elevator was connected specifically to her room. Walking into the first zone, you would find the kitchen on the right-hand side, a kitchen, dining table, and cocktail bar in the hallway. On the left-hand side, in the same zone, was a dressing room and bathroom. Next to the kitchen was a large living area with English-style bookshelves on the walls, housing more than two thousand books collected by the young woman. It was like a small library. Sansa really liked to read, so she designed it that way.

Inside her apartment were figures, models, and toys from various famous movies, such as Star Wars ships and Narsil’s sword from The Lord of the Rings, including Harry’s Nimbus 2000 broom, arranged in a groove in the middle of the bookshelf. Hanging decorations paired with the TV made her living area outstanding and very eye-catching.

In front of the bookshelf, there was a large sofa on a brightly colored carpet in the style of the Victorian era. Next to the window was a music corner with a large, classic black piano prominently displayed, and four basses placed in front of the piano. On that wall hung a violin and a guitar, with pictures of various memories of her and her family decorating the area.

Next to the bathroom, there was a snooker table. Further into the deep corner, various artwork tables could be found. The girl's bedroom was raised to the second floor, a small room not very large, supported by three pillars. The area of those pillars would be decorated or hung with sports equipment that interested her, such as fencing sets, basketball hoops, and archery targets. As for the hall, the window corner area on the bedroom side, next to the stairs, was a storage area for artworks and a drawing area. The walls in that area were full of her artwork, making it a corner that would fascinate anyone who saw it.

“You may come in.”

“Oh, wow, wow, wow!” someone shouted.

“Your apartment is very beautiful and spacious,” Joe said.

“This is incredible. How did you find such a big and spacious room in this area? And damn, you must be a billionaire,” Stephen said while laughing.

“It’s actually quite rare and cost a lot of money. I had to do quite a lot of renovations. I have to buy the whole floor, break down some walls, and open up the top. I wanted it to be an open, comfortable hall like this.”

"That bookshelf is incredible. This is clearly a library. You must really like reading,” Cillian asked.

“You can call it crazy. I really love reading and researching,��� she smiled back at him.

“Did you design it all yourself?” Stephen asked.

“Yes, I designed and supervised all the work myself. Well, I’m a designer, so that’s one more thing I can save on. And got what I wanted the most.”

“This is great,” they said in unison.

“What would you like? Wine? Drinking wine while viewing art will enhance your emotional enjoyment.”

“Alright. It’s wonderful.”

Sansa gestured towards the corner of the staircase where her work was displayed for them to see. It was filled with many of her artworks, but three pieces stood out, making it very interesting to walk and visit in that area.

“That’s three of my works. You guys can go ahead and take a look. I’ll bring the wine for you.”

Cillian and his screenwriter friend stopped in front of the drawings. It was full of beauty, and he could feel that the three pictures gave a completely different mood. It’s subtle and not boring, Cillian thought. Sansa has a very good artistic sense, which he admires.

“Here,” the woman handed each of them a glass of wine. Before stopping and standing between Cillian and Stephen.

“Your work is excellent. There is depth and different feelings in the three pictures,” Cillian praised her.

“You understood correctly. I painted these three pictures in different moods.”

She pointed to the first picture. “I painted this picture when I was feeling sad and nostalgic. On the anniversary of my parents’ passing.”

“This picture was drawn when I was feeling lonely and alone,” the woman told Cillian with a glance. He stared at her in response, as if trying to get into her thoughts.

“As for this picture, I drew it when I was the happiest. After I ate the best fish and chips in England.”

She laughed and told them in a funny way. Cillian and his friends laughed at her words.

“That would be really delicious fish and chips. Because the pictures you paint are really beautiful,” Fin said.

“Yes, that fish and chips. Make me powerful. It was so delicious that I had to draw a picture to express my happiness,” she replied cheerfully.

“Your work is really great. The professor or the people who saw it must have liked it.” Cillian continued to admire her without stopping.

“I hope so. Unfortunately, right now I can’t find a gallery showing them. They’re very rare.”

She replied to him like a hopeless person. Cillian thought about something.

“I think I can help you with this. I have friends who have good galleries. Some in London.”

He offered to help the young woman. I don’t know why he offered to help this strange woman as well. Maybe it was because he wanted to get to know this beautiful woman even more. She was too interesting to him to ignore.

“Really?!.... This is really good. Today I decided to go to Ms. Louis’ shop and meet you guys.” Sansa’s eyes widened and she jumped up and down with joy like a little child.

“Your work deserves to be seen. We are happy to help,” said Stephen. The young woman began to search for business cards. To hand to Cillian. It will be easier for her and him to communicate about the gallery.

“Here, my business card. If you find the gallery, you can call and inform me. I’ll contact you back to the gallery.”

She said, handing him a business card. Cillian took the business card. 'Sansa Elizabeth Arthur,' he muttered her name. He turned and smiled at the girl.

“I’ll contact you back.”

“Thank you very much.”

“But…you guys will stay. Let’s drink the entire bottle of wine first, shall we? Or will we go back?”

She asked the four big boys, while pointing to the large sofa area.

“This wine is very good. If you don’t mind, shall we talk while drinking wine?” Stephen, the eldest man in the group, replied.

[kahidlaws]

quick executor alter drabble dedicated to a mutual who indoctrinated me to appreciating the sankta <3

reader is ambiguous gender but has a vagina

cw: desk sex, fingering, clothed sex, premature ejaculation but like he can bring it back up like how he brought me back into the game 🥴

He's started asking questions.

This was out of the ordinary for someone like Federico 'Executor' Giallo. The man never second-guessed, never doubted his superiors requests when it comes to missions. It led to many people theorizing that Executor was a robot but then that would be an insult to Lancet-2 because she had more personality than he did.

You never expected the question that he asks of you.

"How do you finger someone?"

Good gods, he can really excel at everything if you asked him.

He has his ever-so serious expression on his face. The same one where he shoots his guns at the enemy. The same one where he's gained the title of Saint. The same one where he delicately glides his fingers over your wet folds as you taught him with a shaky breath.

Enacting such a lascivious act on your desk was far from how you wanted the lesson to go but you didn't complain. After all, Executor had no qualms when he hoisted you on it and removed your pants and underwear in a way that seemed to practice. If you didn't know any better, it seemed as though he was treating this as a mission.

But you do know better. You see how his ears turn ever-so pink and his heart that beats profoundly beneath his saintly garb.

"Is this well for you, Doctor?" He asks you, voice hushed.

You sighed softly at his ministrations. He was trying but he was following a routine. "It's okay, but not quite there yet. You have to change it up."

He raised a brow and if he didn't have his fingers toying with your pussy, you would've laughed. "'Change it up'?"

"Like so." You proceeded to shoo his hand away, using your own to show him how to pleasure you. "You want to alternate strokes and teasing in order to increase the feeling of satisfaction when we get to penetrative sex."

And it was amazing how he listened intently to you, eyes honing in on how your index and ring finger parted your folds in order for your middle finger to rub your clit. You let out a small moan, rubbing slow circles around the nub. He tentatively raised a hand and you let it glide across your inner thigh before attempting to copy your moves. He used his thumb to rub your clit and the size difference of his thumb compared to your finger was enough to make you fully moan.

He caught on fully, this time, shooing your hand away as he uses his entire palm to cover your pussy. The heel of his palm digging into your clit as his long fingers found their way prodding your entrance. He let out an imperceptible breath through his nose, almost marveling at how wet you became from his actions.

"You mentioned penetrative sex," He started, eyes wandering straight to yours, "is there something more to this?"

Oh, dear gods, you were going to enjoy this.

"Y-Yes there is." You answered, eyes fluttering when the tips of his fingers entered your hole but not all the way. "If you want c-continue after this."

He paused, his middle finger circling over your hole. "It wouldn't be fair if I didn't see this through."

And then he plunged his middle and ring finger all the way inside you. Your eyes fully rolled back, your spine concaving as you let out a keening cry. His fingers were long enough to reach that special part inside of you that when he curls them just right-

You threw your head back when he did, hands grabbing purchase on his clothes as your hips thrusted to meet his hand. The heel of his palm continued to grind deliciously against your clit as his fingers plunged in and out, making squelching noises that it made your ears burn.

"Fuck, Executor-" You whimpered. "Federico, please..."

His throat bobs up and down at the mention of his name. His other hand replaced his palm, the thumb doing quick strokes on your clit as his fingers thrusted deeper, curling each time he reaches the deepest parts.

"Fuck, Federico, yes...!" You mewled, tossing an arm over your eyes. "Just like that-mmm fuck, I'm gonna-"

He drew impossibly closer to you, now leaning over your sprawled body. He braces his hand over you, making him return in using his palm to grind your clit. "Doctor, I might have a problem."

The words didn't register in your mind. It wasn't until he slowed down that you looked up at him. "H-Huh?"

He took your hand that used to cover your eyes, guiding it across his chest and down to his pants where you gasped when you felt his sizeable problem.

"What shall I do, Doctor?"

His responses were so dry but it does the complete opposite to your pussy. You squeezed his girth through his clothes and you grinned teasingly when you hear his sharp intake of breath.

"You just continue." You breathed against his lips. "I'll handle your problem."

And with that, you surged forward, capturing his lips against yours as you palmed his cock. Thankfully, he knew how to kiss, meeting your eager mouth with his as you felt his tongue glide over the seam of your lips. His hand that was still toying with your pussy began to thrust harder, making you move up and down your desk as his mouth swallowed your moans. Meanwhile, your hand was pressing against his girth, teasing what you assumed was the head of his cock as you gripped harder.

When you felt the coil in your stomach getting tighter, you parted from his mouth, eyes shining with tears. "I'm close, Federico...!"

He thankfully understood, upping the ante as he raised himself over you. His other hand soon returned to your clit, rubbing in quick strokes as your hips thrusted to meet his hands. You were losing your grip on his cock but you had to see it through. You gripped his girth harder, rubbing it through his clothes that it made Federico shudder.

"Doctor..." He sighed out. "I..."

Whatever he was going to say was drowned out by your cries of your orgasm washing over you. Your walls clenched his fingers so tightly that it seemed like you were trying to break his fingers. He slowed down on his ministrations, letting your orgasm continue as your thighs twitch beside him. Sweat rolled down your back, making you cringe when you remember that you didn't remove your top or your coat.

You felt as though all the bones were melted. Your chest heaved up and down, already tired from having to be fingered by Executor of all people but you were elated all the same.

You tried to retrieve your hand back from his crotch but your eyebrows raised in surprise when you felt wetness. Looking down, you gasped when you spot a dark patch on his pants where his cock was. Did he always cum that much?

"That's what I was trying to say." He said after a beat. "How will you remedy this, Doctor?"

You were tired. You just got the best orgasm of your life minutes ago. You should've been the good partner and cleaned up the mess.

But you grinned cheekily, fingers toying with his zipper. "I'll see this mission through, Federico."

And you delighted in being this Sankta's first when you felt his cock stir under your fingertips.

[ripdragonbeans]

On Monday - Part 2

Modern Aemond x Reader

Warnings: FLUFF, recollection of Philosophy class I kept falling asleep in (I was having serious sleep issues rip)

You had never been more frustrated in your life. Nothing made sense and you wanted to shove your face in a pillow and scream. Or just scream, no pillow required. Helaena packed up for the night claiming that she has an 8am tomorrow but you knew that was just an excuse for her to get you and Aemond alone.

"This fucking trolly question is absurd. I'd rather just close my eyes and pray the trolly goes off the track," you complained.

"Now, now," Aemond chided, "it's absurd because it's supposed to make you think, Y/N." He mockingly patted your head.

"Well, I don't want to think, I just want to pass." You proceeded to actually shove your face into a pillow and scream this time.

"If you want to pass you're gonna have to think. Wow, you're just as bad as Aegon."

You chucked the pillow at Aemond as hard as you could. "I am nowhere near as bad as Aegon."

He held up his hands in mock surrender. "Okay," he chuckled. "Let's take a break and then come back to it, yeah?" Aemond took his leave and went into the kitchen to get a drink.

"Thank the gods," you sighed as you let your body fall back on the couch. 

When Helaena left, you took her seat next to Aemond thinking that it would be better if you didn't have to stare at his beautiful face the entire time. By sitting next to him all you had to do was keep your focus down on the notes and just listen to him, right? What a terrible assumption you made. Sitting next to him was worse than sitting across from him. It was easier to hide the blushes that crept up your face but being next him made it happen much more often. 

It was the small touches that got you the most. The gentle brush of a hand. Knees bumping into each other. Shoulders leaning on the other ever so slightly. The few times you weren't thinking and you repeatedly hit your forehead on his shoulder out of frustration. It was a rough night for you but you certainly didn't want it to end. 

You felt a weight drop next to you as Aemond settled back in his spot.

"Ready for more, Y/N?"

"Ugh, what choice do I have? It's not like I can say no," you grumbled as you sat back up.

"You don't have to stay and study, you know? You can go crash if you'd like. I won't be offended," he said with a smile. 

You sighed. "I know, but at the same time I really want to do good on this." You looked at him with a smile to match his own. "You're just gonna have to deal with me being a piss baby for a while."

"I'm sorry, a piss baby?" Aemond looked both amused and bewildered.

"You've never heard someone being called a piss baby? It's just when someone is whining a lot, something I have done a lot of and will continue to do."

"Wow, you really are like Ae - shit!"

You smacked him in the face with a pillow.

"Y/N, was that really necessary?" 

You grinned triumphantly. "Yes, because I'm not like Aegon and I refuse to be compared to a guy who can't keep it in his pants."

Aemond opened a mouth to ask how you knew but you answered him without the question.

"I've heard small stories here and there. The way he talked to me earlier was a good indication of his… desires as well."

He looked at you with raised brows. "That's a really formal way to say it but yeah."

When he laughed you couldn't help but laugh along with him. After the laughter had subsided there was a comfortable silence between you two. No pressure, no tension, just comfort. You couldn't help but glance his way and be drawn to his face. Everything about him was so perfect. 

"Can we skip the trolley question and go to a different one?" You turned to face him but your head was down looking at your notebook." Maybe the one about the cave and -" 

You looked up and your noses were almost touching. His violet eye was boring into you with an intensity that you couldn't explain. Your eyes darted to his mouth as he subtly licked his lips. Aemond's breath quickened with yours and all you could do was lean in. He was only a whisper away when he pulled back.

Aemond coughed. "Yeah, the, um, allegory of the cave." His cheeks were red as he fumbled through his notes. Trying to diffuse the tension he started going off about how it explained that people would see only what was presented to them and they would be stuck unless they ventured into the unknown.

While he talked you couldn't help but think about how close you were to kissing him. 

Just a breath away.

[chaos-has-theories]

Heaptober Day 16: Mistaken Identity

Look, I guess I... write now? Don't even ask, all of this setup was definitely necessary. Jup.

Not beta read, barely proofread, we die like Alther Mella.

--

Alda Fry had always dreamed about visiting the Castle. Magyk! Adventure! Houses in all colors!

By the time she was fourteen years old she had decided that she would have to become a wizard. And if there's one thing you should know about Alda Fry, it was this: once she decided on something, she did it, no matter what.

It was late in the year 12024 that Alda stepped off the merchant's ship she'd paid for transport, and set her path towards the Wizard Tower.

It was only just starting to get dark, and not cold at all. Even so, there was barely anyone on the street, and those who were hurried past her, wrapped in coats and scarves all the way to the tips of their noses.

Odd, Alda thought, and continued on her way.

--

It took shockingly long for someone to open the door of the Wizard Tower for her.

When they finally did, it was a ridiculously lanky girl with short dark hair sticking up in every direction. The girl had green eyes and green clothes, and was staring at her rather rudely.

Behind her, there seemed to be some kind of argument going on; or maybe seven of them.

Alda cleared her throat pointedly.

Finally, the girl spoke. "You realize there's a password, right?"

Alda sniffed. "Well, I wouldn't know the password. I've only just got here."

The girl snorted. "You sure did, didn't ya. Come on, just tell me what you want, we can't get anything done in here with you banging away at the door."

Alda rather thought that the cacophanous arguments might be more to blame, but very well. She pulled her shoulders back and squared her jaw.

"I would like to become a wizard," she informed the other girl. "Please."

This time, the green-eyed beanstalk actually left her mouth open to stare at her.

Then she shuddered visibly, cursed under her breath, and stepped back.

"Alright, fine. Come in here, I'm about to freeze my toes off."

Well.

That had been easier than expected.

The girl frogmarched Alda across a shimmering, sandlike floor, and pushed her into a chair at the fireplace.

"Right," she said. "Really, I should be sticking you in the Stranger Chamber, but I'm afraid it's occupied. Nissa Bott, by the way. Who in the entire depth of the Abyss are you?"

"Alda Fry, at your service," Alda said daintily. She suspected that Miss Bott had just sworn rather colorfully at her, but she elected to ignore that.

"And you want to become a wizard."

"Indeed."

"How exactly did you..."

She was cut off by the arguments above them swelling, some clattering, and then a young in equally green robes - with some purple ribbons on the sleeve - dashing past them, only to skid to a halt when he saw them.

"Nissa, you maggot," he complained. "Get back up there and help us clean up this mess."

"So sorry, Newt," Miss Bott said innocently. "I have to interview this Hopeful."

"This what?"

'Newt' seemed, if possible, even more taken aback by this notion than his colleague had. Really, Alda was growing rather tired of this.

So was Newt, apparently, who pulled Nissa up by her collar and dragged her into one corner of her room, where they proceeded to have a - rather more quiet - argument.

Alda took the opportunity to look around a bit. It really was an impressive building. Most impressive of all, the floor seemed to know her name.

Good Evening, Alda Fry, it spelled in an elaborate script, swirling in prismatic colors around her feet. And a wonderful Longest Night to you.

Huh, Alda thought. Nights were apparently rather short around here.

Either the arguments upstairs had eased up a bit, or Alda had simply gotten used to them. Either way, the one beside her suddenly rose in volume. "Then get her to do it," the older boy hissed, gesturing rather unsubtly towards Alda.

Alda decided she was done with this. "Get me to do what?"

As if synchronized, the two turned towards her, looking her up and down with a... somewhat worrying glint to their eyes.

"Well," Nissa began, only to be interrupted by Newt.

"Fetch the ExtraOrdinary. You can consider it your entrance interview, yeah?"

Alda froze, eyes going wide. "As in, the ExtraOrdinary Wizard?"

The boy scoffed. "No, the ExtraOrdinary Message Rat."

Nissa shoved Newt away, sighing deeply. "Look, everything's a bit topsy-turvy today, yeah? EOW's off for some party and took Tod along, and the deputy, and Dandra. And obviously the other Heaps are there too, and we've got the whole StrangerChamber thing to take care of, and Marley dropped some elixir on the floor and we're still trying to figure out what it even was, and Norman and Eliza are arguing about their bunks again, and Master Limm and Madam North still can't agree whether magyk is inherent or extrinsic, and..."

She took a deep breath. Alda was sure her eyes must have glazed over at least halfway through that speech.

Lissa grinned, sharp as glass and just as brittle. "So long story short, we could really need the EOW right about now, but if me or Newt go, Marley might manage to blow up the whole tower. Got it?"

"Not really," Alda admitted.

"Great!"

Just as she'd been led inside, she was marched outside again, and unceremoniously deposited on the stone steps.

"Just down that road, largest building at the end, they should be in the dining room," Newt told her in the tones of someone brushing dust off their hands.

He tried to close the door on her, and in a moment of true desperation, Alda stuck her foot in.

"I don't even know what the ExtraOrdinary Wizard looks like," she protested.

Newt squinted at her as if that was the stupidest question he'd ever heard. "Looks like a Heap," he said, begrudgingly adding, "youngest of the bunch. Good luck!"

And with that, the huge double doors swung shut behind her.

--

So the thing was, alright?

The thing was, Jenna and Septimus liked to argue. It had started as "an exercise", according to Jenna: to teach Sep that even if he was loud and opinionated and maybe even a little bit mean, nobody was going to be angry at him. At least, not for longer than a day.

(If pressed, Jenna might admit that she also enjoyed having a sparring partner who didn't win automatically just by dint of being Older. But Septimus didn't need to know that.)

Four years later, seven years later, fourteen years later, they just happened to be... the only people who could really argue with each other. Being family was one thing, and six older brothers would always manage to be annoying, but Jenna was the Queen. Septimus was the ExtraOrdinary Wizard. People did not simply argue with the Heads of State.

So the Heads of Statue argued with each other. Mostly just where noone could hear them: their rooms, their letters, among family and friends.

They would argue about who had the more difficult job ("I have to run the entire castle, Sep, all you have to do is one measly tower" "Have you heard the arguments Thaddeus Limm and Margie North get into?") whose outfit was better ("You looked better in green" "Jen, you mix red and purple") or whose turn it was to check in with the Tribe of Three and the dragonets. ("You're Spit Fyre's Navigator, Jen, you're essentially their grandma" "Absolutely not. No. You can be their grandma, I'm the weird uncle at best.")

In short, they argued about anything and everything, as long as it wasn't actually important.

Which meant, of course, that to the mixed amusement and annoyance of their party guests, Jenna and Septimus spent most of their twenty-fourth birthday on their favorite subject:

Who of them had been born first.

"Of course it was me," Jenna said, affronted. "My mother had time to get ready for the Welcome Ceremony, and then Marcia had time to even come up with hiding me in the Forest for Dad to find me."

"Come off it, Jen. The Messenger ran to get Alther right when you were born, and that was noon. I was born in the morning, just ask Mum."

"I could be three days older than you, and you wouldn't even know."

"Forget it." Septimus grinned. "You are and always will be the youngest Heap."

It was just then that the doors to the dining room swung open, violently enough that one of them smacked Edd lightly on the nose.

Standing there was a girl with pale hair, pale skin, and pale grey robes, unusually flimsy for this time of year. She was breathing heavily, and looking around with a suspicious squint.

Even so, she didn't seem to notice that half the people in the room had reached for their protective charms, keeping them just out of sight.

The girl's gaze snagged on Snorri, passed right over Marcia and Milo, and finally settled on Oskar, looking a bit dubious.

"I'm looking for a... Heap," she announced. Her accent was the lilting tones of a Northener, tasting the word "Heap" as if she wasn't entirely sure that it was a name.

Twelve straw-blonde heads and two darker ones heads swiveled towards her. The atmosphere in the room could be described as 'incredulous'.

Marcia caught herself first. "How did you get in here? Where are the guards?"

The girl just frowned at her. Behind her, Hildegarde ran up, out of breath and clearly embarrassed.

"Terribly sorry. She just seemed to know exactly where she was going, I thought..."

"I am looking for a Heap," the girl repeated patiently. "I am sent by one Newt and one Maggot. There has been a spillage."

Septimus groaned, his hair falling over his eyes as he flopped forwards. "Of course. Nissa and Newt. I should have known."

"So. Which one of you is Heap?"

Twelve pairs of blonde eyebrows lifted. So did a great many other pairs.

Milo was the first to take pity on the girl. "Which one do you need?"

The girl frowned, mouthing the question back to herself. Then, sounding uncertain for the first time, she said, "...the youngest one?"

All the way at the Head of the table, Jenna met Sep's eyes. Purple to green, green to purple: Jenna began to grin.

Sep sighed. "So much for birthday dinner, I guess."

He moved to stand, but Jenna was quicker. "Here I am," she said brightly. "The youngest Heap, always and forever. Isn't that right, Sep?"

Septimus glared at her. Jenna grinned even wider.

"Yes," Septimus said, through his teeth. "You'd better go and stop Thaddeus and Margie from strangling each other! I'll just stay here, enjoying the party."

"Oh, please do," Jenna said sweetly. "And don't forget your meetings tomorrow morning. Or the Open Audience in the afternoon. All those reports won't read themselves!"

Green to purple, purple to green.

A second passed.

"Deal," Septimus said.

"Deal."

[kumabeom]

mikrokosmos

synopsis : after coming back into contact with beomgyu , the person who wavered your view of love and couples , the two of you are forced to work together for a project. in the end the two of you have to deal with unwanted feelings.

star 30

you ran through the long hallways, looking for the door with a sign that had your group’s names on it. eventually running into sakura, chaewon, yunjin and yena who were all standing directly outside of the door, urging you to arrive quicker. as you entered the room, taking a seat in one of the makeup chairs, getting your hair and makeup done by the girls as quickly as possible. thankfully there wasn’t much to do with the hair and makeup as you previously had gotten it done, but they made slight touch ups.

“yn !! why would you scare us like this , we’re next in line !!” yena complained as she finally took a seat feeling a bit less nervous as you finished up. your body relaxed taking a minute to close your eyes.

“i told you i was busy, yena.. but then i felt bad-“

“can you at least tell us why you were so late, yn ?” chaewon asked. patting your head, smoothing your hair out, attempting to smoothen down a few loose hairs.

“you can probably check any social media.. oh ! just search up mine and jake’s names !!” you exclaimed. pulling out your phone from your purse that you had taken along with you, handing the phone to chaewon. as you heard her nails tapping against your phone. a shocked expression appearing on her face as she gave the phone to sakura.

“you were getting married to jake !? TODAY ??!!! and you just left !!!” chaewon yelled, sakura proceeding to ask questions as she also passed the phone to yena, who seemed quite confused.

“not really married- ‘ts not a real marriage if you don’t love one another.. right ? plus jake and i agreed to ditch our spots today and reveal that it’s all been fake, this entire time.” you stated. getting up from the makeup chair, “after all nobody would like to be in an arranged marriage,”

“wait, so yn, where are you going after this ?” yunjin asked , worried for your sleeping and living arrangements.

“hm? me.. i think i’ll see my brother.. i don’t know if he wants to see me, but i’ve moved a few of my necessities to beomgyu’s place.”

“you could always-“ yunjin begins to invite you to stay with her. although you cut her off.

“-it’s best if i don’t, yunjin, your parents and mine are friends, i don’t even want to really stay with beomgyu. just because i’m worried my mom might say something to him…”

“oooh, you can always stay with me and sakura, well we can’t really ensure something long-term, but at least until you can stabilize your situation a bit.”

“thank you so much, chae, i’ll check in with my brother first and uhmm.. well depending on what he says then i’ll let you know.” you responded, sending a bright smile towards her.

“also.. yn, i thought you were an only child ?” sakura questions, taking her seat on the arm side of the couch.

“mhmm. that’s what it looks like because that’s what my parents and my brother want you to think.. he separated himself from the family because he didn’t want to be forced into business.. he really loved to dance and sing- we didn’t talk much.. mainly because he was taught things that my mom believed i shouldn’t be taught.”

“there’s so much to you that we didn’t know about… but anyway.. you missed rehearsal earlier so just try your best !!” yena gathered all 5 of you in the middle of the room, making a circle and putting your hands in the middle. “ready ??”

a/n: i did change yn’s pfp in the middle of doing these twts. also WERE ALMOST DONE WITH MIKROKOSMOS. just a few chapters left.. maybe 2-3 more ?? depends :)). also i don’t know if y’all noticed considering the fact that i didn’t write the performance scene…. but i suck at writing things like that but don’t worry i will 100% mention beomgyu’s reaction !! ><

[backtothestart02]

Swimming Lessons - 1/2 | westallen family fanfiction

A/N: Just a quick little fic before I start my commissions that I'm almost ready to do! Enjoy.

...

Synopsis: Barry teaches Nora how to swim.

...

Chapter 1 -

After breakfast one morning in late July, Iris gathered the plates from the table and headed into the kitchen to rinse them and transfer them to the dishwasher. Barry was two steps behind his wife with the plate of remaining pancakes and orange juice. They were both silent as their little Nora ran off to her bedroom after the slight tension at the breakfast table. As soon as her door slammed, Barry turned to his wife, concerned.

“That’s the third time she’s refused to go to a pool party this summer.”

“Mmm,” Iris offered, noncommittally, struggling to bend down to get one of the larger plates into its slot.

She was seven months pregnant with their second child, and things like bending and reaching were getting a little more difficult. Barry stepped in to help when he could, but his wife was determined to do things on her own for as long as she could.

“Here, I got it,” Barry said when he couldn’t stand it anymore and swiftly put the rest of the dishes in.

Iris forced a smile.

“Thanks.”

She leaned against the counter, draping her arms over her large belly.

“What do you think it is?” he asked.

Her brows furrowed, pregnancy brain setting in.

“What do I think what is?”

“With Nora.”

“Oh.”

“Even Lia’s going to this one, and they’re best friends. They’re practically inseparable. Little Lia probably even knows about Nora’s speed.”

“Oh, I don’t think so. We were crystal clear with her to keep that a secret from everyone, even her best friend.” Iris continued even as Barry opened his mouth to speak. “And as we all know, that’s entirely possible. Isn’t it, Mr. Allen?”

His jaw dropped.

“Isn’t it?” Iris tilted her head to the side mockingly.

“Going to hold that over my head forever, aren’t you?”

She shrugged innocently and grabbed a peach she’d eyed minutes earlier before taking a bite.

“If the shoe fits.”

“I was 24. Nora is seven. No way she kept it from Lia.”

“You were a blabbermouth then, and you still are, and yet you kept it from me at my dad’s bidding.”

“Iris-”

“I still think-”

“Okay. Let’s just assume, for the sake of argument, that Lia knows and is keeping it a secret from anyone else.”

“Alright.”

“Maybe she’s scared other kids will find out if she slips up at a party. I could make her a power dampening bracelet. I could even make it look pretty.”

Iris smiled faintly.

“You could…”

Barry eyed her carefully. He could read his wife as easily as she could read him. It was a gift they had for each other, and something wasn’t adding up.

“But that wouldn’t solve the problem, would it?”

“Barry-”

“Because she’s gone to other parties…” The wheels started turning in his head.

“Barry, please,” she begged, willing him not to figure it out.

“She can’t swim,” slipped out without his permission. His eyes widened and locked on hers. “She can’t swim!”

“Shh, shh, shhhh!”

She pulled him farther into the kitchen and pinned him against the counter with one finger against his lips.

“You’re not supposed to know.”

“I’m not supp-” He pulled her finger down and proceeded to complain. “I’m not supposed to know? I’m her father!”

“Yes, yes, yes, shhh. You’re her father. And she looks up to you so much, which is exactly why she didn’t want you knowing that she quit swimming lessons before she really learned.”

“Oh, now who’s keeping secrets?”

She shot him a glare.

“I wasn’t going to keep it from you forever, just until she was ready to start learning again.”

“How long, Iris?”

She winced.

“Two years.”

“Two years?!”

“Shh, shh, shh! Will you quit being so loud? I don’t want her to hear us!” She seethed as calmly as she could.

He took a breath, ordering himself to not be carried away by his emotions.

“Okay. So, she quit when she was five. Which means she still learned how to tread and float at four. I read that’s what they learned. She can still do that, right?”

“In theory. But she hasn’t gotten in the water since her first swimming lesson at five when the kids made fun of her for not being able to let go of the wall without her floaties.”

“Oh, god, Iris. I could’ve been there for her for that. I went through that.”

Iris froze and looked up at him.

“You did?”

“Yep. I was a terrible swimmer until age 9 when you invited me to your pool party a month in advance, and I panicked because the girl I had a crush on was going to learn I couldn’t swim.”

“Barry.”

“So, I told my mom to sign me up for swimming lessons again, but they didn’t start for another month. That would be too late, so my dad- Oh, my god. Of course.”

“What? What did your dad do?”

He fixed his wife with a silly grin, and she started to smile despite her impatience.

“He taught me how to swim in the lake by our family cabin.”

“Oh, Barry.”

“And that’s exactly where I’m going to teach Nora.”

He pushed himself off the counter and made a beeline for the hallway leading to their daughter’s bedroom.

“Wait, Barry, no. She doesn’t kn-”

Nora’s bedroom door opened suddenly.

“Would you two stop squabbling about me? I can hear you with my music on and the door closed.”

“Squabbling?” Barry frowned, looking down at his daughter strangely and then at Iris. “Who taught her that word?”

“You did,” both ladies said in unison. “During Scrabble,” Iris added in.

“Oh. Right.” He cleared his throat and bent down to get on his daughter’s level. “Nora, do you want to learn how to swim?”

Nora’s eyes bulged, and she shot death glares at her mother immediately.

“You told him?!”

“He-”

“Don’t blame your mother. I figured it out.”

She frowned and faced her dad.

“You did?”

He nodded.

“I wish you’d have told me though, honey.”

She looked down at her feet and shifted uncomfortably.

“I didn’t want to disappoint you.”

“Hey, you could never disappoint me.”

He took her hands in his own and kissed each one.

“You’re my little princess.”

“Daaaad.”

“And princesses never do anything wrong. Isn’t that right, my queen?” He glanced up at Iris, who was fighting a smile again.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” He fixed Nora with a determined stare. “So, will you answer my question? Do you want to learn how to swim?”

“I don’t want to take swim classes again, Daddy. The other kids, they-”

“I know. What if it was just you and me?”

“Just us?” Her eyes lit up hopefully, and Iris melted.

“Your mom can watch. How about that?”

“I’ll be your cheering squad,” Iris said.

“As long as you do it sitting down,” Nora instructed. “I don’t think my baby brother could take so much excitement.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Iris chuckled, and Barry grinned.

“Well then, it’s all set. Get your stuff ready, we’re going for a swim!”

“Wait, where are we going?”

“Someplace I know you’re going to love.”

Her eyes watched his curiously.

“My old family cabin on the lake. It has its own private beach. Not a soul will be on it but us.”

Nora jumped up onto her toes and then into her dad’s arms.

“Oh, Daddy!”

[invincible-selfxmade-punk]

In my 5th hour class that meets just before lunch they are the rudest, worst behaved of all the classes and I have just about given up on teaching them anything. Right now we are taking what is called close notes, on these notes they only have maybe five or six words missing per page and all the kids have to do is fill those words in. As they feel the words in I do a small lecture on more detailed aspects of the notes. For example today we are talking about what was going on in the United States when World War II was taking place in Europe. We were talking about rationing, war bombs, and Victory gardens. But in fifth hour every time I open my mouth to talk someone else decided they needed to talk more than I did and would start talking over me. These kids are 10 years old. I waited two and a half minutes the room went silent. I open my mouth to talk again and they started talking again. I finally gave up and simply gave them 2 minutes to write down the needed words on each Google slide and then proceeded wordlessly to the next one. Talking to parents does not work. Sending them to the office does not work. Taking away their recess does not work. Making them write sentences/essays doesn't work. Nobody cares.

Usually my worst class is reserved for the last period of the day or the period right after lunch. But nope, 5th period has them all beat.

Trying to explain rationing to these kids is like speaking another language.

Against my better judgment I allowed them to have a small party the last day of school before spring break. First period was fine. And third, some boys brought individual bags of chips and then refuse to share them and then spent the entire period fighting over the chips while the girls could care less than ate the donuts that I brought.

In 8th everybody brought something. One kid brought two 12 packs of sodas and several kids brought chips. We only have 18 students so there should have been plenty for everyone. But as we started one girl was complaining that she did not get anything to drink. It turned out that one of the boys before anyone even got started, took out four sodas just for himself open them and drink them down. And was reaching for two more. I asked him why did he do this when no one else had even gotten a soda yet. His reply was "I was thirsty.". He had no remorse. A female student jerk to the other two cans away from him in order to give them to the people that had not gotten a drink yet. And of course he protested.

The same thing happened with the chips as two boys decided they were each eating an entire bag of chips before anyone else got any. I had to make them put them back and only get a bowl full. The bowlful what's been wasted and thrown around the room.

This is hardly an isolated incident. These kids have no clue how to take turns, how to wait in line, or how to share. They cannot take the smallest bit of direction. Putting anything in numeric or alphabetical order is way too much trouble for them and they will not do it.

I have no idea what jobs they are possibly going to have unless their bosses are just as idiotic as they are.

@elderberriesandarsenic

[bunniesovercats]

Cw: not a funny lil story but personal vent

Sometimes I think about this time when I was a kid, when we were learning about different land formations ( plateaus, mountains, canyon etc etc)

I got so excited about it I went home and started making a paper diorama to show my teacher, but when my mom got home she asked what I was doing and I panicked. I thought she would tell me not to bother wasting paper on something so I lied and told her it was for extra credit.

She took one look and lectured me about how I was clearly half assing it, and that I could do better. She then proceeded to get huffy and do it for me before complaining about it. Took all the fun out of my little paper diorama, and when I took it to school I felt crappy about it the entire time. My teacher was really nice about it and loved that I wanted to make it, but I think she could tell I didn't get to make it myself.

I think anxiety from that is coming back to haunt me these days in regards to everything I do (´；ω；｀)

[cglenwilliams]

Just a quick story. I was in a university production of The Crucible a long time ago (longer than I care to think). One of the actors in the show with me was a very cool person who was extremely friendly and extremely well-liked, but also a little bit set-aside from the rest. Almost like there was an aura of cool around her. The others in the cast always seemed slightly in awe when they were in her presence.

At least, that's how I read things as a guy who was acting with this particular group for the first time, coming in as an absolute outsider who had always wanted to play Reverend Hale and had heard announcements about their auditions on my local NPR station.

One day, I was backstage while a run-through was on hold. Nothing was going on, and nobody knew when we'd be getting going again, but we were all supposed to just hang tight and be ready to go as soon as the stage manager called places. I noticed her sitting on the edge of the bed that was part of the set for the first scene. I walked over, sat down next to her, and said, "Hey, how are you doing?"

And rather than giving me a polite, social response -- a "Fine, how are you?" or an "I can't complain" -- she proceeded to tell me exactly how her day went. This was a woman I had barely exchanged a few sentences with before outside of the handful of lines we exchanged as part of the script, and she told me about her day in full, just like we were the oldest of friends.

And I was fascinated with it. And at the end when she turned to me and said, "How about you?" I responded by telling her all about my day and she listened attentively to every word of it. It wasn't the first time in years that someone had listened to me that closely, but it was the first time in a long time that I hadn't felt like somebody was waiting to pass judgement on what I was saying or waiting to jump in and add their own two cents. She was listening to me because she was genuinely fascinated to hear about my day.

Shortly after that production I started an M.A. at that university -- something that happened as a direct result of my being a part of that play -- and we wound up taking directing classes together, swapping new scenes we had written, I acted in a show she directed, she acted in a show that I had written, and we got to be friends. And while we were never the "spend the entire day together" type of friends, we were always the "we don't have to edit ourselves around each other" type of friends. When she moved across the ocean to the UK after her graduation, we spoke a lot less -- but she would still pop up in my chat notifications from time to time and we would share what was going on in our lives.

In 2019, she passed away suddenly in a traffic accident. The first thing I thought of when I heard that news was that conversation together, backstage, sitting on the side of the bed with someone who heard the words "How are you doing?" and responded to them like they were a question that deserved a serious answer, and not just a social nicety. And I remember how nice it felt to then turn around and actually tell another person how I was doing, too, without feeling like I had to contain the response in a single sentence or risk annoying the person who had asked.

And still, from time to time, I remember that conversation -- and then I remember that the person I had that conversation with is no longer in this world.

And it feels like the world is a poorer place for it.

So, in honor of Tabatha -- Hey, how are you doing?

such a great feeling when someone just genuinely wants to talk to you and wants to know how your life is going