Chapter 7: Heart Broken

Jane felt as if her heart had just shattered into a million pieces as Thor explained Loki's trade was impossible.

"You do not understand, Jane. The Cosmic Cube is not mine to trade. It belongs to my people. We have guarded it for years. If it fell in the Frost Giants' hands, war would spread rampant."

"Loki has promised to kill my sister if you do not grant him the cube!"

"As much I hate to say this for I do not wish to hurt you, but your sister's life is only one life compared to the thousands if Loki possessed the Cosmic Cube."

Jane stepped back as if Thor had physically slapped her across her face. "My sister's life may be insignificant to you and your kingdom, but not to me! She is all I have left in the world. She is my only family. I promised my mother on her deathbed that I would always place Ivy first in my life. She means more to me than you ever will!"

Jane turned to leave. Thor reached out to halt her departure. "Where are you going?"

"To offer myself to Loki in Ivy's stead."

Thor shook his head vehemently. "No, Jane! As much as I love you, I could not trade the cube even for you."

"I know that, Thor." Jane replied as tears cascaded down her cheeks. She stood on the tips of her toes and kissed him softly. "This is goodbye."