Sleep hadn't come to Loki easily the last week or so. While Loki had received assurances that Tindalos was going to rebuild, everyone involved was acting strangely. From the small tidbits of information Evan had given him, he was the only one in the company staying in New York until the new headquarters was found and set up. Evan had also handed Loki his company phone and the responsibility of handling what few in-town jobs their most exclusive clients would need.
But it wasn't the new burden of responsibility that bothered Loki, it was Evan's final gift to Loki; a loaded gun and three magazines of spare ammunition.
"Take it and be ready to use it." Evan had said from over the cup of steaming tea as they walked alongside an empty ally. "I know you've been taught to use a knife as well, but we would rather you be cautious." He then slung the leather satchel over Loki's shoulder before he could protest. "We're not sure who set fire to the headquarters but it wasn't some random incident."
Evan's words had added to the paranoia that Loki had endured for years. For Loki this was like being fifteen and on his own all over again but this time the enemy was unknown.
'Stop it Loki,' He chided himself as he lay wishing for sleep, 'Father no longer has any power over you.' Unbidden, the years of being on the run after being cast from his home filled his mind. He remembered the cold, the fear and the hunger. He remembered the years of feeling unworthy despite all his efforts. The sudden ringing of the cellphone Evan had left, was a welcome distraction from his troubling thoughts.
"Hello. Tindalos Couriers, this is Lyle Smith." Loki recited as he scrambled to find a pen and paper.
"Hello Mr Smith, my name's Phil Coulson of the West Lane Galleries and I need to arrange a delivery from one of our artists, a Mr. Steve Rogers." A smooth voice answered from the phone. Loki's heart beat faster, remembering his last delivery for Steve Rogers.
"Where do you want me to pick up the delivery and where do I deliver it." Loki answered eagerly, hoping to see the handsome dark haired man with deep blue eyes again.