Author's Note: Welp. I apologize that this is coming over a month later than intended. I can blame no one but myself and the horrible Writer's Block I encountered. I deleted this chapter twice before deciding it was just meant to be as it is. It's not the battle scene as promised, but that is coming next chapter! I am so happy with what developed with the characters in this and I hope you will be too. It just sort of happened! Anyway, much love to Tina, my beta reader, and everyone who reviewed, favorited, and followed! I am so blown away by how many of you there are! Enough about all that though…I am sure you are anxious to begin reading! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: All non-original characters, plot points, and information belongs to those at Marvel Studios, Warner Brothers, or J.K. Rowling. The title, "Wolves without Teeth" comes from the song of the same title by the fantastic Of Monsters and Men. The cover photo is a mashup I created from photos found on Google. The story plot and dialogue belongs to me. I do not write for profit.
Full Summary: In the age old fight of good versus evil, two souls converge in a battle to stop the end of all worlds. With the universe crumbling around them, Loki and Hermione find themselves connected by more than just their magical abilities. A myth becomes reality when an old foe comes tearing through the realms seeking revenge upon those who wronged him. What will happen when Loki and Hermione discover there's much more to their connection than meets the eye? Will they be forced to sacrifice everything they've ever wanted in order to save the nine realms or will love prevail?
Wolves without Teeth
Pairing: Hermione Granger/Loki Laufeyson
Rating: M (Rated Mature for adult language, violence, and sexual situations)
Part Thirteen: Confessions
Song Recommendations: "Please Don't Say You Love Me" by Gabrielle Aplin, "Faithfully" by Journey, "Missing" by Evanescence, and "In My Veins" by Andrew Belle
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"Sometimes beautiful things come into our lives out of nowhere.
We can't always understand them, but we have to trust in them.
I know you want to question everything,
but sometimes it pays to just have a little faith."
— Lauren Kate
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Confessions
Sunlight trickled through the open blinds, causing a striped pattern to dance across the sweat dampened skin of both Darcy and Hogun. The former lay panting, her waves of hair cascading over the cream-colored pillow cases. Her eyes were wide as she stared at the ceiling above, trying to get not only her breathing under control, but her racing thoughts as well. She tucked the matching sheets up around her naked chest to stave off the chill of the early-morning air that was contributing to the goosebumps on her flesh. As her breathing returned to normal, Hogun rolled to his side, trailing his fingertips through her hair, fanning it out even more.
"Is everything well, Darcy?"
The question was asked in a quiet murmur, and she suspected he was frightened she would answer negatively. How does one truly describe the best sex they've ever had? It was like fireworks and waves after waves of pleasure, not to mention the feeling of complete and utter contentment that followed afterwards. Plus, there was the whole butterflies in her stomach from the way Hogun was currently looking at her… Nervously, Darcy ran her tongue over her kiss-chapped lips, stalling for a moment before answering.
"I'm fine…just still a bit dazed, I guess. I never expected you to knock at my door this morning." Cringing at the way that sounded, Darcy tried again. "Wait—that came out wrong. I just didn't think you were interested in me this way." Gesturing between their naked bodies for effect, she tipped her head to the side so she could see Hogun's reaction.
Chuckling softly, he stopped playing with Darcy's voluminous hair to reach down and intertwine his hand with her own where it gripped the sheet. "Whatever gave you that impression? I believe I was very forthcoming when it came to courting you." He brought her hand up and let his lips place gentle kisses on each of her knuckles, relishing in the faint blush that overtook his lady's cheeks. Releasing her hand, Hogun slid closer, the sheets rustling as he readjusted himself to peer down at Darcy's face. "Do you perhaps regret allowing me entrance to your bedchamber this morning?"
Darcy's eyes widened even more. "Oh no! Not at all, Hogun…I'm simply cautious about where this could go…I've not had the best of luck with men in the past, and with the battle only hours away, I thought you wouldn't want to get involved with anyone, let alone me of all people. Besides, we haven't really known each other all that long and—"
Wanting to roll his eyes at her rambling, Hogun did the next-best thing to stop her incessant talking—he ducked his head and captured her lips in a smoldering kiss. Immediately, Darcy melted into the kiss, relaxing and wrapping her arms up around Hogun's muscular back. Tracing her lips with his tongue, he was pleased when she granted him access to massage her tongue with his own. After a few moments of kissing, Hogun pulled away carefully, afraid she would launch back into her excuses. Instead, he watched as her eyes slid open slowly, a small smirk tilting her mouth. Returning to his previous position of leaning over her, he raised his dark eyebrows in a thoughful manner.
"Tonight, I will join Thor and the others as we battle Fenrir and his werewolf children. However, I do not anticipate losing my life this night." Seeing Darcy take a deep breath in preparation of countering his statement, he quickly used his freehand to place a finger upon her lips, quieting her worries. "Hush—If that were to happen, I could die happily, knowing I spent my last few hours wrapped in your embrace. Contrary to that, I look forward to returning safely to you and bringing you back to this bed in victory."
"Oh. Well, that's…that's unexpected."
"Why do you say that?"
Darcy stared up into Hogun's dark eyes, her heart beating erratically. No one ever expressed such feelings towards her in this way. She's become so accustomed to one-night stands and fleeting relationships that it was a bit of a shock to see such sincerity shimmering in Hogun's eyes as he spoke to her. When they initially started talking, she would never have thought it would lead them here to this moment. The night of the engagement feast was the first time she realized that she may harbor feelings stronger than expected for the Vanir. As the weeks moved forward, and they spent more and more time talking and getting to know one another, her feelings grew stronger. Now, it seemed; he possibly felt the same way. Carefully, Darcy reached up and trailed her fingertips down the side of Hogun's face.
"No one has ever…" Her explanation tapered off there as she was unsure how to finish the sentence. Seemingly moved by her speechlessness, Hogun placed a gentle kiss to her forehead.
"Are you planning on returning to Asgard once this has all ended?"
"I'm not sure." She blinked up at him, brown eyes curious. "I suppose I'll have to for Thor's coronation and then the wedding, but I'm not sure if I'll remain there. My life is here, and there is still so much of the world I want to see."
Snuggling closer so that their bodies were touching, Hogun intertwined their hands once more. "If you are interested in travel, I could take you to Vanaheim. I have seen your world; it is only fair for you to see where I am from as well." Watching as uncertainty flickered through Darcy's eyes, Hogun hastily added, "Then we can travel through the rest of the realms together. Muspelheim, Alfheim, Niflheim, and Nidavellir." As he listed off the realms, Hogun placed a lingering kiss to each of Darcy's knuckles causing a shiver to run through her cooling body. "Although, we should avoid Jotunheim and Svartalfheim for obvious reasons." He chuckled, the noise rumbling deep in his chest and vibrating where his body connected with Darcy's. "What do you think?"
Her usual confidence gone, for the time being, Darcy took a deep breath trying to calm her sudden anxiety. Here she was in the exact predicament Jane and Hermione found themselves dealing with currently. Both her friends were in love with supposed immortals, and here she was doing the same damned thing! Granted, she was far from in love…but if Hogun kept looking at her with those dark eyes, kissing her with those skilled lips, and offering her the trip of a lifetime, she was certain she'd be the next to fall down that dreaded rabbit hole. Unsure of what to say in response, Darcy sighed and closed her eyes against the onslaught of emotions welling up inside of her.
"I think that sounds amazing, Hogun, but I'm not sure it's such a good idea." She opened her eyes then, not surprised to see a tinge of hurt in his face. He released her hand and settled against the pillow, head tilting to stare at the ceiling.
"You are worried we are moving too quickly."
"Honestly? Yes. I'm terrified, and it takes a lot for me to admit that. I usually just blurt out whatever I am thinking without regards to what happens next."
"Aye." Those dark eyes met hers once more, and she breathed a sigh of relief when he smiled. "Let us take it one day at a time. I refuse to deny my feelings for you Darcy Lewis, but I will not burden you with such sentiments as of yet, if that is what you wish." Her eyes grew wide at that confession and her heart beat faster understanding the underlying meaning. Was he saying what she thought he was saying? "However, I insist that once this ordeal is over you allow me to show you the realms—and how I truly feel about you. What do you think?"
Swallowing dryly as all moisture disappeared from her mouth, Darcy pushed herself into a sitting position, the sheet falling away from her naked body. Respectfully, Hogun kept his eyes fixated on her face, and it was refreshing to see he cared for more than just her body unlike some of her previous lovers. Trying to ignore the fluttering in her chest, Darcy nodded and leaned forward to capture his lips in a brief kiss.
"Alright. We can travel together." It was the most she could promise him right now. Darcy wasn't one to just jump into situations based off of her emotions, but this time she found it more difficult to hold back. Hogun made her feel things she'd never experienced before, and that scared her more than it should. Reaching out, she threaded her fingers through the hair on the back of his neck and tugged him a bit closer. "For now, let us enjoy the quiet before the storm." Her lips met his hungrily as she allowed her emotions to surface. It was refreshing to let go for once. Hogun responded enthusiastically, humming as her body made contact with his once again. Soon, the rest of the house would be awakening and preparations for the battle later that night would begin. Until then, Darcy and Hogun would enjoy each other's company and the newfound feelings they were developing.
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Thor watched from the bed as Jane wriggled into a pair of jeans. They'd been woken early by the undeniable sounds of lovemaking, which were surprisingly coming from Darcy's room. It appeared Hogun had finally worn the hardheaded woman down and managed to get her to admit some sort of feelings for the Vanir. Frowning, Thor realized Jane was more tense than normal. Throwing back the bedspread, he easily removed the blankets from his own naked body and got to his feet before padding across the soft carpet. Jane was seated at her mother's old vanity, applying a bit of makeup before brushing out her hair. Wrapping his arms around her from behind, Thor exhaled when she clasped her hands over top of his and leaned back into the embrace.
"What troubles you, Jane?"
"I'm worried about the battle. I can't shake this bad feeling I have about it." Turning slightly so she could gaze up into Thor's tanned face, she added, "What if something goes wrong? We know next to nothing about defeating this monster." Kneeling down, Thor helped Jane rearrange herself on the seat, so she could see him properly.
"Jane, I know you are concerned about all of us, but we will be fine. Not only do we have Tony, Coulson, and Daisy on our side; we also have Hermione, Loki, Wanda, and all the others who have magical abilities. We will find a way to bring down Fenrir and return the realms to safety." Taking her face in his large hands, Thor brushed his thumbs over Jane's cheeks trying to soothe her uneasiness. "Then, we can return to Asgard and be married." Relief flooded the god when she smiled at his words.
"I am very much looking forward to marrying you, Thor. Although, I don't think we need to rush. You have a job to do—taking over the throne, and then there's the whole secret mission you told me you promised Loki."
Dropping his hands from Jane's face, Thor stood and began pacing the room, running a hand through his hair distractedly. He hated hiding information from Jane, but he worried she would try to dissuade him from helping Loki procure Jotunheim. Unfortunately, aside from keeping Loki locked away in the dungeons, giving him his own throne was the only way to keep him from trying to take over Asgard. Plus, now there was the whole Hermione situation to factor in.
Hermione was a Midgardian Witch, and from what Jane and Darcy had explained, she'd admitted to being in love with Loki. This complicated matters. If Loki and Hermione intended on continuing their relationship, then there was a possibility Loki would want to stay on Midgard with Hermione. From what he knew of the independent witch, Hermione was certainly not the type of person just to drop everything and travel across the realms to rule a cold and desolate planet with Loki. If Loki wanted to stay with Hermione, Thor knew as a fact that the rest of the Avengers, S.H.I.E.L.D., and every other military force of the planet would want him locked up.
Perhaps if he explained the plan to Jane, he could persuade her to convince Hermione to travel to Jotunheim with Loki and live out the rest of her existence there, ruling by his side. Stopping his pacing, Thor turned and marched back to Jane before dropping to his knees once more. She gave him a reassuring smile, and cupped his cheek like he'd done for her. Sighing, he dropped his shoulders, letting his own self relax knowing he would no longer be keeping secrets from his beloved.
"In exchange for Loki's cooperation when it comes to me ruling Asgard, I promised to aid him in procuring Jotunheim as his own." At first, Jane merely blinked at him, but as the seconds ticked on, Thor grew increasingly worried. Suddenly, she burst to her feet causing the vanity chair to topple over.
"You did what!?" Throwing her hands into the air, Jane walked the length of the room and picked up a pair of discarded jeans before returning to Thor's side. Throwing the jeans down at her fiancé, she watched as he slowly stood and began to dress. "Why in the world would you think that offering Loki a throne would be a good idea?" With her hands upon her hips and one eyebrow raised; Jane awaited Thor's answer.
"If Loki has his own throne, then he will be less enticed to overthrow me for Asgard's."
"You realize that by allowing him to rule over Jotunheim, you are essentially giving him his own army as well."
Gently pushing Jane aside, Thor strode towards the dresser and withdrew a red flannel shirt. He was quiet for a moment as he shrugged into the soft material, mulling over the argument Jane posed. Turning to face her, he began buttoning the front closed. She was staring at him with a stern expression, and it took everything he had not to smile at the adorableness of it. That was one thing he loved about Jane—she was intellectual, strong, and most of all willing to put others first. Here she was, arguing for the sake of preventing future skirmishes. Holding back his love and mirth, Thor finished dressing and moved towards her.
"There will have to be limitations of course, but this is the best course of action. I cannot keep him locked away in the dungeons for the rest of his life, especially now that he and Hermione have found one another."
With that statement, Jane deflated, a harsh sigh leaving her lips and her hands falling from her hips. She hadn't really thought about that, but Thor was right. Hermione would never allow Loki to be kept locked away in the dungeon or in his room for the rest of his life. Closing her eyes wearily, she crossed her arms and shook her head. When she opened her eyes again, Thor was observing her, understanding evident in his crystal blue eyes.
"Hermione would be devastated if he returned to the dungeons," Jane whispered, closing the distance between her and Thor even more.
"So you see why this is the best course of action? By placing Loki on the throne of Jotunheim, I can ensure that peace remains between Asgard, Jotunheim, and all the other realms. He is fully aware he will be closely monitored, but I believe Hermione's acceptance of him plays a key role in his behavior." Finished explaining, Thor wrapped his arms around Jane and pulled her close.
"Why are you keeping this a secret from everyone? Does Hermione know?" Jane tucked herself into the warmth that Thor provided, her eyes slipping closed as his familiar comfort relaxed her even further.
"No one knows. I fear that if others knew they would disagree and want to prevent such a feat from happening." As he spoke, Thor's chin brushed against the top of Jane's head.
"You're probably not wrong." Leaning backward so she could see his face, Jane frowned. "How are you going to convince everyone that Loki would be a good ruler for Jotunheim?"
"I am hoping that Loki will prove himself worthy in defeating Fenrir. If he does well with this task, then I can persuade others to see that he has perhaps changed for the better." Sighing again, Thor brushed the hair from Jane's face. "The only complication is Hermione."
"You mean if she wants to stay here on Midgard?"
"Yes, and if that happens, then there is no telling what Loki will choose to do with his future."
"We can only hope that the allure of a throne in Jotunheim is much stronger than staying here on Midgard with Hermione...as horrible as that sounds."
"What if I want that too?"
Stumbling backwards a step, Thor shook his head, his long, wavy hair tumbling about his broad shoulders. "Whatever do you mean, Jane?"
"What if I don't want to stay on Asgard forever? I'm nowhere near done with my research and work here on Earth. After we marry, are you going to expect me to sit upon a throne next to you until my time comes?" Jane's eyes were full of apprehension, but there were no tears present. She loved Thor with all of her heart, and she would do anything for him, but the idea of being confined to Asgard for the rest of her life frightened her more than death itself. Sighing heavily, Thor closed his eyes for a moment before returning his penetrating, blue stare to her.
"Jane, I will not force you to remain on Asgard once we marry. You will always be free to choose your own path. I love you more than words can express, but I will not be heartbroken if you choose to travel between realms as long as you always come home to my arms." Smiling gently, Thor continued, his voice soft and gravely, "I may be the new ruler of the Realm Eternal, but that does not mean I must stay there perpetually. I wish to protect this realm and the others, and travel with you as well. Wherever we may go, as long as I have you, I am home."
"Thor…that is exactly what I needed to hear." Jane's words came out with a breath of relief, along with a few stray tears that she hastily swiped away. Standing on her tip-toes, she quickly placed a kiss upon Thor's cheek before dropping back to her regular height. Thor smiled down at her lovingly, warming her from within.
Pulling his beloved near once more, Thor closed his eyes, trying to block the uneasiness he felt about the entire situation. Listening to the sounds out in the rest of the house, Thor prayed that everything went according to plan this evening. Once Fenrir was taken care of, then he could worry more about Loki and his plans for the future. Holding Jane at arm's length, Thor smiled broadly.
"Come now. Let us go make breakfast with the others and begin final preparations for tonight." He gave her a quick kiss upon the cheek before gently taking her hand in his and leading her from the bedroom. Jane remained quiet as they headed toward the kitchen, and that didn't help to quell the disquiet he felt over the entirety of the situation. It was as if Jane had transferred her trepidation to him, or simply awoken his own.
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In all the years that he'd lived here, the view from the library was always his favorite. Granted, Draco had resided at the Malfoy Manor all his life, besides when he was away at school, but that didn't change anything. He could stare out the large bay windows for hours and hours and never grow tired. Draco loved the way the lush, green lawn swooped down over the hillside before leveling out into the apple orchard beyond. It didn't matter what time of year or day it was; the view always managed to take his breath away. Besides the library itself, this was the one thing about the Manor he would miss the most. He could only hope that Scorpius would maintain the beauty of it all and appreciate it like he had all these years. He'd left specific instructions in his Will for the boy to follow when he was old enough to do such things. Until then, the house elves and landscapers would take care of the upkeep.
As he continued to stare out the windows at the sunrise, Draco swallowed, wishing he could drown the world in a haze of fire whiskey, but there would be no drinking this day. Today was the day of the full moon—the day he would transition into a werewolf for the first time. Already he could feel the wolf under his skin, aching to free itself from its prison. It was like his skin was crawling, and every nerve ending was simmering just waiting to be ignited. Then, in the very back of his mind, he could feel a presence—Fenrir. The bastard beast was waiting for him to turn so he could take control of him. If he'd been thinking clearly, Draco would have done the smart thing and taken Wolfsbane potion to stave off the harsh effects of the monster within, but he doubted it would work this first time. Maybe if he lived through this ordeal, there would be a chance to attempt it later, but he doubted it.
Reaching out, Draco spread out his hand on the cool glass of the window, his head hanging forward as his eyes flickered closed. With only this single day left before all hell broke loose, Draco couldn't help but think of all the regrets in his life. Being so cruel to his classmates…joining the Death Eaters…Dumbledore…letting Hermione go…the list could go on and on, but it was that last one that hurt the most. He loved Scorpius more than life itself, hell; he even loved Astoria, but his heart beat for Hermione. Letting her go had been the hardest decision of his entire life—one he regretted every single day. Now, he was a werewolf, and she was magically bound to a god from another realm. Life really had a way of pulling the broom out from underneath your arse, didn't it? Draco shook his head, his eyes still closed, relieving the memories of the past.
He sensed her presence before she spoke, a gentle 'Draco', called from the doorway. This was followed by the tentative clicking of heels against the hardwood floor. Sighing, Draco opened his eyes, glancing one last time at the apple orchards before facing his wife. Astoria looked lovely as always. She was dressed in a simple pair of black slacks with a pink satin blouse. Her hair was twisted into a bun, and she wore a shade of lipstick not unlike that of her shirt. Her eyes glittered with worry and a touch of tears. As she moved closer towards him, the sound of her black heels echoed in the large room. "Draco," she asked again. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine, Astoria." Crossing his arms, Draco ignored the way she flinched at his hostile tone. Since talking to Hermione and Loki, he'd really tried to be better at keeping his anger in check, but occasionally the hostility would leak through. Clearing his throat, he tried again. "Really. I'm alright. Did you need something?"
"I was wondering when you were heading over to the lab. I was going to take Scorpius to Molly and Arthur's to be with the other children. Ginny said something about bringing his broom for a Quidditch match this afternoon." She stopped beside his desk, glancing down to see the large manila folder he'd so carefully compiled over the past few months. "What's this?"
Striding forward, Draco smacked a hand down on the folder a second after she tried opening it, effectively snapping the cover shut. "It's nothing for you to worry about." Glaring at her, Draco watched as Astoria slowly removed her hand from the folder bringing it to twist with the other.
"You don't have to be so rude, Draco. I was just curious." Turning abruptly to hide her tears, Astoria made to leave, but barely made it five steps before Draco called out to her.
"Astoria, wait!"
Draco gritted his teeth and aimed his glare towards the ceiling where the sunlight streamed through. He could smell her tears like fresh rain thanks to his enhanced sense of smell. When he glanced down, his anger once again under control, he realized Astoria was still facing away from him. Tentatively, he walked forward, his bare feet making no sound on the hardwood. Unclenching his fist, Draco flexed his hand twice before gently placing it on her satin covered shoulder. He was unsurprised when Astoria flinched away from his touch, but she still allowed him to turn her, so she was facing him. Hesitantly, Draco placed both hands on her shoulders and pulled her to his chest. Astoria clutched at his black jumper as she sobbed against his chest, Draco simply holding her as she broke down.
When the tears subsided, Astoria turned her head, so she could speak clearly. "I don't understand what's happening with you, Draco. I wish you would talk to me. I know I'm not her, but I'm here and I—I love you. That should be enough." She trailed off as her voice broke, her fingers tangling in the soft material of his jumper.
"I know, Astoria," Draco whispered in her hair. "I'm so sor-ry." Holding her away from his body, Draco released the grip on one of her shoulders so that he could tip her chin up. Staring into her watery eyes, he dipped his head and brushed chapped lips across hers, ignoring when her body tensed. Pulling back, he let his forehead rest against hers. "I'm not perfect by any means, and I've made a lot of mistakes when it comes to you, but I hope that someday you can forgive me for what I've had to do."
Releasing the grip on his shirt, Astoria took his face in her hands and held it steady, examining the dark circles under his haunted, grey eyes. It was like staring into a raging storm out on the ocean, and he was sinking—drowning. Her hands tightened their hold on his face. "Oh—oh God, Draco—what have you done?" A sob escaped her throat as she threw herself back into his arms. This time he clutched her just as tightly, wrinkling the pink satin of her shirt in the process. She knew he wouldn't answer her question, so she just held him as he held her, fighting off whatever monsters were ravaging him from the inside out.
Eventually, their breathing calmed and Draco could gain control over his emotions. Knowing this was quite possibly his last day alive, he nuzzled the top of Astoria's head until he could get his mouth by her ear where he whispered, "Let's go upstairs." When she simply nodded, taking his hand in her much smaller one, Draco was glad that he could at least give his wife one final day of happiness before everything changed. As he allowed Astoria to lead him out of the library and upstairs to the bedroom they'd shared since they first wed all those years ago, Draco couldn't help but think that he could add this to his unending list of regrets.
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Wiping the condensation from the mirror with her towel, Hermione stared back at her wide-eyed reflection, anxiety clearly evident in her brown orbs. The problem was, though, that she wasn't sure if the anxiety belonged to her or Loki. Over the past few days, their connection had been so muddled with a myriad of emotions that it was becoming difficult to determine where she ended, and he began. When she questioned Loki about the situation, she was met with tight-lipped answers and distractions in the form of sexual favors…not that she was complaining about the latter. With a sigh, Hermione set aside her towel and began drying her hair with her wand. They had a long day ahead of them, and they were expected at the lab sometime before lunch. As she continued drying her hair, the warm air combined with a detangling charm, Hermione tried not to think about the inevitable fight that would occur later that night. She didn't want Loki to know exactly how terrified she was to face Fenrir and his pack of werewolves.
Swallowing back her fear, Hermione set aside her wand and began applying her makeup. As she was swiping a bit of brown eyeshadow on her eyelid, Hermione heard raised voices out in the living area. Setting aside her brush, Hermione edged towards the door and cracked it open ever so slightly so she could hear what was being said. Biting her lip worriedly, she listened as Bruce and Wanda tried getting something out of Loki.
"Wanda thinks you're keeping something from us all, and I have to say that I agree."
"Why don't you tell us what you and Draco discussed? We saw you shaking hands—you made some sort of deal. What was it?"
"I don't have to tell you anything. You're here as my babysitters, not to interrogate me." There was a scraping of a chair and then someone began pacing. Hermione practically held her breath so that she could hear every last syllable spoken.
"One word from either of us to Thor and you'll be forced to stay behind tonight."
"If you do that," Loki practically growled, "and we will all die. Is that what you wish?"
"Of course not, Loki, but you have to explain to us what's going on. Surely you are not the key to Fenrir's demise?" Wanda's voice was curious as she questioned Loki. There was silence for a moment; even the pacing ceased. Finally, there was a frustrated sigh, and Loki began speaking once more.
"Draco has a plan and he explicitly asked for my help, but for now I cannot speak about it. The situation is far too sensitive, and if anyone discovers what he's asked of me, the entire plan will be ruined." There was a scuffling sound and a clinking as a mug was placed in the kitchen sink. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to see if Hermione is nearly ready. I'm sure there's much to be done at the lab before nightfall."
Hermione quickly shut the door as Loki's footsteps moved closer to where she was hiding. Loki slowed as he passed the door, but did not stop. Instead, he continued towards her bedroom, the door clicking shut behind him. Backing away from the bathroom door, Hermione's mind was racing with scenarios where Draco could possibly need Loki's help. Deciding the only way to find out what he was on about was to ask, she hurriedly finished her makeup before pulling on her fluffy, white robe and tucking her wand inside the pocket. Taking a deep breath to try to calm her frazzled nerves, Hermione opened the door and quickly made her way to her bedroom.
Opening the door, she shuffled inside and shut herself in with Loki, who was calmly staring out the window. Hermione's eyes raked over the back of his body, taking in his broad shoulders and muscular back hidden beneath his usual black shirt. Trailing her gaze down, she examined the curve of his behind and long, long legs until she glimpsed his bare feet, just peeking out from beneath his black trousers. She'd come to know every single inch of his body over the past few weeks, so she knew immediately that something was wrong, even without the help of their connection.
"You were listening." It wasn't a question, but she answered anyway.
"Yes." She made to move away from the door, but his abrupt turn stopped her. The look in his emerald eyes was nearly as haunting as Draco's, and that terrified her more than she cared to admit.
"I won't tell you either, so don't bother asking." He stalked towards her with purpose, each step causing her anxiety to raise slightly. "I've already told you, I refuse to lie to you, Hermione."
"Then just tell me the truth, Loki. Maybe I can help." He was directly in front of her now, towering over her small frame. His hands came up to rest against the door on either side of her head, successfully making it impossible for her to escape. Her eyes flickered briefly to his parted lips before returning to his eyes.
"Not this time. Not with this."
"I'm frightened," she admitted; her gaze falling to her hands, which were playing with the tie to the robe she wore.
"Of me?"
"What?" Shock resonated within her chest as she snapped her face back up to Loki's, her hands dropping the sash around her waist. "No—never of you, Loki. I trust you absolutely. You should know that by now." Lifting her wand hand, she slid her fingers into the soft hair of her lover, wanting to pull him down for a kiss but knowing their discussion was not yet over.
"You should be," the Frost Giant scoffed, jerking his head backwards, away from her touch. "You only know this side of me—the side the Rime Diamonds forged. What about who I truly am? What about the Frost Giant within? You should be frightened of the darkness that still lingers persistently just under the surface. I am capable of monstrous deeds, Hermione. I can make no promises that I will always be able to suppress the desire to hurt those around me—you included." Dropping his arms, Loki moved away from Hermione, shame and regret tainting their connection and making her heart ache desperately.
"You promised you would never hurt me, Loki." It was a weak argument, but it was all she had at the moment. Whatever was going on between Loki and Draco was making him question everything they'd built over the past few months. Chest heaving as her heart beat frantically with anxiety, Hermione clenched her fists and stepped away from the door, ready to justify yet again why Loki wasn't the monster he so desperately claimed to be, but she never got the chance. The Jotun returned to his previous position with such force that both Hermione's back and his hands collided with the door forcibly enough to rattle it on its hinges. Hermione flinched ever so slightly causing Loki to smirk, and proving to himself that she could indeed fear him if need be.
"God of Mischief and Lies, my pet. One must remember never to take what I say at face value." Stepping forward so that their bodies were flush against one another, Loki grabbed Hermione's chin tightly, forcing her to look upon his face and making her whimper slightly in pain. "I could hurt you if I wanted to, and not in a way you would enjoy. I am not someone you should trust, nor am I someone you should rely on explicitly. I am someone you should keep on a very tight leash—someone that should never be left to their own devices because that's when the darkness filters in. Yes, that is when my mischievous side takes over, and I lose myself to the darkness within. Do you want to know the best part, my pet? I enjoy every bloody second of it."
With one last heated glare, Loki's mouth crashed atop Hermione's in a bruising kiss full of teeth and tongue. At first, Hermione gasped and arched into his body, clearly wanting nothing more than to be taken right then and there against the wooden door. However, as the kiss continued and Loki's hand tangled in her curls, Hermione couldn't help but think about the words she'd just heard. Growing angry, she tried to push him away, but to no avail. He was all over her—his hips holding her in place and his long fingers massaging her sensitive scalp. Realizing that there would be no reasoning with him in his current state of arousal, Hermione inhaled sharply through her nose before sending out her magic, forcefully knocking Loki backwards, who managed to take a few strands of her hair in the process. He tumbled onto the floor in a tangle of limbs and Hermione surged forward, now the one towering over top the Jotun.
Whipping her wand out of the pocket of her robe, she pointed it underneath his chin, making sure it dug into the soft flesh ever so slightly. His eyes glittered dangerously as they connected with her brown ones, but she felt no fear. No, despite the truth behind his words, amazingly Hermione felt no fear when it came to Loki. Was he formidable and ruthless—yes—but she was not afraid of him. Breathing heavily, she dug her wand in further, not surprised to see any change in his demeanor. They were both panting from a combination of anger and want, but Hermione refused to cave to his distractions.
"I know what you're doing, Loki, and it's not going to work," she practically growled, watching as his pupils dilated further with both lust and a tinge of alarm. "You're trying to make me mad with you…angry enough to push you away so that whatever the hell you and Draco have planned won't hurt me!" Dropping her arm so that her wand was no longer digging into Loki's throat, she continued her rant. "Well listen here you insufferable git; the Rime Diamonds may have bound us together, but it's my decision to stay by your side! Do you hear me, Loki? Do you?! I know who you are and what you've done in the past and I just—I just don't fucking care anymore! I'm sick and tired of all of it!"
In a burst of rage, Hermione flung her wand across the room, not nearly satisfied enough when it merely clattered to the floor by her wardrobe. Growling, she turned away from Loki and thrust her hands into her hair, cringing at the soreness. As she tried to get her breathing under control, she fought with herself over what her next words should be. There was so much that she wanted to say to Loki, but she had no idea where to begin. Here they were finally at a crossroads, and whatever happened next could verily determine the outcome of Loki's actions later that evening when the darkness inevitably arrived and there were precarious choices to be made. Her eyes fluttered closed as she listened to Loki climb to his feet. She could barely sense his emotions over the raging storm that was churning away inside her own body—a swirling mess that overwhelmed her senses and made rational thought nearly impossible. Wrapping her arms around herself, Hermione shivered slightly, unable to face him—too afraid the haunted look in his eyes would stop what she was about to admit.
"I don't have a bloody clue what's going to happen tonight, or if we can even stop it," Hermione began, her voice barely above a whisper and her eyes still shut tight. "However, I do know this—I know that the Rime Diamonds bound us together because we're destined to be soulmates. Somehow we managed to find one another even though we were worlds apart. I'm not one to easily admit to things like fate and destiny, but even I have to acknowledge their magic." Hand coming up to play with the ring dangling from her neck, Hermione took a deep breath before continuing. "Our connection is more than sharing power and thoughts and emotions; it's far more magical than all that. It's like you're not just in my head anymore, Loki. You're in my veins, my very essence. It's like you're always there, just underneath the surface and no matter how hard I try to fight it; I cannot get you out. Somehow you've seeped into every single inch of me…mind, body, and soul, but most importantly…you're in my—," Her breath hitched there, eyes snapping open to reveal a tear brimmed surface. Swallowing back her panic, Hermione finished what she'd started, finally turning around. "You're in my heart, Loki. I love you."
The silence within the room was deafening, so much so that Hermione could practically hear the blood rushing through her veins. There was no taking back what she'd said—the words were out there for Loki to do whatever he wished. She watched as he blinked slowly, his hands flexing once, twice before he stumbled forward a step. His expression was near unreadable, which was not uncommon. Shaking his head, Loki began to reach out towards her, but stopped, pulling his arm back to run a hand through his tousled hair. His throat bobbed as he swallowed harshly, the sound loud enough to reach her ears.
"No…that's—it's just the diamonds making you think that—."
"Stop," she snapped with unsuppressed exasperation. "Just stop, Loki." Hands clenching into fists, Hermione took a deliberate step forward. "I thought it was just the diamonds at first too, but the further I analyzed everything, the more I realized that was impossible."
Shaking his head again, accompanied with a sad smile, Loki tried to reason with her. "Listen to me, Hermione—."
"No, you listen," she all but screamed, causing him to flinch as a small amount of magic exploded out from her core. "The diamonds bind you to your soulmate, yes, but that doesn't mean you have to love one another. I didn't choose to be bound to you, but I did choose to accept my love for you." Standing there with tears running down her cheeks, Hermione stared hard at Loki, waiting for him to understand what she was saying. Every word of it was true—somehow in the midst of all the chaos around them; she had fallen for this formidable Frost Giant…Merlin help her.
Loki gaped at Hermione in awe, the raw emotion evident on her round, tear-stained face making his chest ache. He'd suspected that she'd fallen for him, but never been entirely certain until this moment. He could literally feel her love for him surging outward through their bond like an electric current. Now that she'd admitted her true feelings, there was no mistaking it for what it really was. They were well and truly fucked—what was he to do about the Draco situation? How could he follow through with the agreement with the blasted werewolf without shattering this woman's fragile heart? With his own chest heaving from pent-up emotions, Loki closed his eyes briefly to block out the sight of Hermione standing there, her eyes wide with uncertainty and her cheeks stained with tears. This did nothing to block her voice from breaking through the barriers.
"Loki? Please, you have to say something."
What was he supposed to say? That he loved her too? Was she expecting some sort of admission from him? He wasn't sure he was ready for that, or that he ever would be. He still wasn't even bloody certain he was capable of truly loving another in return. There were strong feelings there, that could not be denied, but to admit it out loud would be uncharacteristic of him. Loki knew he couldn't stay silent much longer, but how could he properly articulate the sentiments he felt towards Hermione? Looking at her, he wondered how someone so innocent, so kind, could come to love such a villainous monster such as himself. Hermione must have felt his diffidence because suddenly she was pursing her lips and shaking her head.
"Whatever is going on in that thick skull of yours, stop it right now. Everyone is capable of being loved, no matter who they are or what they've done in the past."
"What about events that have not yet come to pass?" When she gave him a curious look, Loki elaborated, "I can make no promise that I will always be able to resist the darkness—the monster within." He should have told her right then about Draco and the monster her former lover was unwillingly harboring.
"I have faith in you, Loki…to do the right thing." Ducking her head, Hermione glanced up through her lashes, making him feel smaller than ever before. Unimaginable regret filled him to the brim. How could she say such a thing? When had anyone ever placed their faith in him? If only she could know the truth. Clearing his throat, Loki glanced away from her penetrating stare.
"I don't deserve your love, Hermione." When he returned his gaze to her, he was surprised to see she was smiling, albeit a bit uncertainly. When she spoke again her voice was ragged, laced with barely suppressed tears.
"I'm exactly what you deserve."
Choking back a foreign emotion, Loki stood there in the morning light reevaluating everything he knew. His heart beat rapidly, making it nearly difficult to breathe as he tried to piece together a logical thought. His original plan upon waking this morning was to do everything in his power to push Hermione away, but somehow that'd backfired. Instead, here they were, a declaration of love between them. Now he was faced with the ultimate ultimatum—follow through with the plan and risk losing Hermione forever, or tell Draco the agreement was off and risk the lives of everyone else instead. No matter which way he examined the situation, people were going to get hurt. As he continued to argue with himself mentally, Loki observed Hermione carefully. Through their connection, he could easily sense her confusion and doubt, but it as the unrelenting hope shining in her eyes that made his decision for him.
"To hell with it," he muttered before striding forward to wrap Hermione in a tight embrace. Immediately, his lips came down to brush gently over hers in a soft kiss that made her heart flutter. Her hands slid up his back, scrunching the shirt within her fingers. She willingly opened her mouth when he traced the seam of her lips, their bodies melting together as the kiss deepened. It was everything a kiss should be and more, as well as a complete turnaround from what they'd become accustomed to. This kiss was soft and sensual, their lips and tongues moving together languorously rather than fighting for dominance.
For once, Loki didn't feel the need for Hermione to submit to him. This time he wanted to show her exactly how he felt about her, even if he was too much of a coward to say the word aloud. Moving his hands from where they'd tangled into her hair, he dragged them downward over the terrycloth robe she wore to untie the sash hiding her exquisite body from him. The robe parted, revealing a line of skin from her neck straight down to where he needed her the most. Breaking the kiss, his right hand came up to cup a firm breast while the other slid inside the robe to rest on the soft flesh of her hip, causing her to tremble.
Practically panting, Loki began trailing wet kisses from the corner of her mouth and down her neck where he deeply inhaled her scent. His nose tingled with the smell of lavender from her earlier shower, arousing him even further. Gently, he used the tip of his nose to trace a path back and forth between her shoulder and the sensitive spot behind her ear as she shrugged out of the robe. It pooled at their feet, and immediately Loki used his grip on her waist to pull her flush against his body, reclaiming her mouth. As they resumed their kissing, Loki maneuvered them towards the bed. When his legs bumped into the mattress, he drew back, finally allowing Hermione to divest him of his shirt. She pulled it up and over his head and tossed it aside before taking a seat on the edge of the bed and going for the waist of his trousers. Green eyes met brown as she undid the tie and button, the garment slipping down his long legs allowing his arousal to spring free. Licking her suddenly dry lips, Hermione made to grasp his impressive length. Before she had a chance to proceed, Loki gently wrapped her wrist in his grasp, smiling softly.
"Not today, love. Today, I wish to show you exactly just how much you mean to me." The statement was practically a purr, and Loki watched as Hermione nodded once, a pink blush spreading over the fair skin of her throat and cheeks. Dropping the hold he had of her wrist, Loki used his knees to nudge open her legs before climbing onto the bed and causing Hermione to crawl backwards. He followed swiftly, like an animal stalking its prey. Grinning up at him, Hermione reached up to pull his head tenderly down for a kiss, parting his lips so that she could delve into the damp heat beyond. As the kiss continued, her hands roamed up over his shoulders and then down his back, stopping only when she held his curved behind, squeezing playfully.
Loki chuckled into the kiss, the deep rumble making his chest vibrate and causing her to smile, their lips separating. Hermione gazed up through heavily lidded eyes at Loki, and he found his heart skipping a beat at how beautiful she looked spread out before him. Hermione's skin was flushed, just beginning to warm to his touch, and her eyes shimmered with the love he knew she truly felt for him. Suddenly feeling choked up with emotions, Loki knew that this woman would be the death of him somehow. He would give up everything if it meant she could live a safe and happy existence. Closing his eyes, he exhaled harshly, his breath making her fringe flutter and worry lines appear on her forehead.
"Loki," she whispered, her hand coming up to tuck a few strands of his hair behind an ear. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing." Everything. "I'm just realizing how incredibly lucky I am to have been bound to you."
When Loki opened his eyes, Hermione was surprised to see tears there. Frowning, she used the tips of her fingers gingerly to brush the few that escaped off his high cheekbones. She'd never seen him cry before—normally it was her that fell to pieces when it came to emotional upheaval. Now, more than ever, she knew something was wrong, and it all stemmed back to that conversation he'd had with Draco. Whatever was making her lover cry, it was quite possible big enough to ruin them all. Shifting on the bed so that her body was prepared for him, she took Loki's face in both her hands and placed an urgent kiss upon his trembling lips. With her eyes still closed and just breaths separating them, she whispered her request.
"Make love to me, Loki. Just this once, make love to me."
Taking a shuddering breath, Loki nodded, his forehead brushing against her own. Shifting atop the mattress, he kneeled so that Hermione could wrap her legs around his waist, effectively placing his tip at her entrance. Slowly, never breaking eye contact, he slid into her wet heat, relishing when she made the most delicious mewling sound. Once he was completely sheathed within her body, Hermione secured her ankles behind his back, her hands coming up to rest on his forearms.
"You are so beautiful," Loki breathed, earning him a dazzling smile that lit up her entire face.
Leisurely, he withdrew before snapping his hips forward again, beginning a slow, unrelenting pace that brought goosebumps to the flesh on both their bodies. Hermione met him thrust for thrust, their desire fueled not only by their bond, but their affection for one another. They never broke eye contact save for the few instances Hermione couldn't help but throw her head back in ecstasy. The closer the couple grew towards that glorious edge, the slicker their skin became, causing their hands to slide smoothly over one another and making them shiver. When Loki realized she was getting close, he doubled his efforts, a hand snaking down so that his fingers could draw intimate circles around her swollen nub.
"Please, Loki—don't stop," Hermione cried out as her arms were thrown to the side, hands clutching desperately at the floral decorated sheets on the bed. Inspired by her enthusiasm, Loki continued his ministrations, his piercing green eyes raking over her flushed face where her mouth was parted as she panted wantonly. If this had been any other time, he would have made her suck on his fingers, but he was trying to keep this time as gentle and tender as possible. As his gaze traveled lower, he enjoyed the sight of her bouncing breasts and the way the Rime Diamond glittered in the morning light where it clung to her sweat dampened chest. With a burst of excitement, Loki realized just how close she was, her movements becoming more frantic. Her hands clenched into fists, pulling the sheets taught underneath their bodies. With one final, purposeful thrust, Hermione fell apart, her head punching backward into the mattress and legs clamping almost painfully around his waist like a vice. "Loki!" His name was called out somewhere between a moan and a shout, the sound reverberating in the tiny room.
Wanting her to enjoy every last second of the orgasm, Loki never stopped thrusting, and once he knew she was sated, he allowed himself his own release. He pumped her full of his seed until it dribbled out onto her thighs. Panting, Loki dropped his head into the crook of her neck, leaving a fresh trail of open-mouthed kisses in his wake. Slowly, her hands unclenched from the sheets and her legs dropped from his waist, allowing Loki to turn on his back. Hermione moved with him, curling delicately into his side with a sigh of contentment and placing a few kisses of her own upon his salty skin.
As her leg intertwined with his, Hermione let her head drop onto his chest so that she could listen to the rapid beating of his heart as they calmed. She closed her eyes, enjoying the coolness his Jotun body provided her overheated self. Soon she would be forced to wrap herself in the quilt or sheets, but for now she felt completely at ease. Smoothing her hand down the ribbed muscles on his chest, Hermione decided to break the quiet of the room.
"That was…"
"Different."
"I was going to say lovely, but I can see where you're coming from." Giggling, Hermione playfully poked Loki's stomach. Relaxing into his embrace, she was relieved when he brought his hand up to rub gentle circles on her back, her eyes sliding shut. "It was a nice change from what we normally get up to." She blushed prettily when he hummed, that hand of his sliding down her back until it cupped the curve of her bottom.
"Are you suggesting you no longer wish to be dominated by me?"
Her eyes snapped open along with her mouth as she peered upwards. "What?! Of course not! I was—"
Spanking her behind playfully, the sound echoed in the room, eliciting a yelp from the bushy haired witch. Loki chuckled, the sound, dark and sensual. "I'm only teasing, my pet." Rubbing the tender spot on her arse that was slowly turning red, he hummed again, the sound reverberating in his chest as Hermione returned her head to where it had previously been resting across his chest.
"Oh…, I thought you were serious." Worrying her lip with her teeth, Hermione wriggled closer, getting comfortable once more, a single yawn escaping her mouth.
"I'd never give up my dominance over you so easily, nor do I believe you would allow me to." Sighing, Loki sank back into the comfort of the bed. "Although, I agree—it was a delightful change of pace. I would not be opposed to partaking in this gentle style of lovemaking again sometime."
"That is…good to know," Hermione whispered as she cuddled closer to her lover, unable to hide the shiver that ran down her spine. She knew not whether it was from the chill from the room and Loki's body, or from the uncertainty that he was incapable of hiding in his voice. Either way, Loki was considerate enough to untangle the quilt from under their bodies and pull it up so that it covered the both of them. As he tucked them in, Hermione mumbled sleepily into his chest. "We're supposed to be at the lab…"
"Quiet now. We don't need to be there until nearly noon, and it is barely half nine. My insufferable brother and his comrades can wait for us." Splaying his large hand out on her back, Loki soothed Hermione until her breathing slowed, indicating she'd drifted off to sleep or was nearly there. "Let us enjoy these last few hours together without intrusion from the others." After placing a tender kiss upon the top of her head, he was surprised to hear Hermione murmur once more before sleep fully overtook her.
"I love you, Loki."
Startled by the overwhelming desire to repeat the words back to Hermione, Loki squeezed his eyes shut and ground his teeth together until his jaw was sore. Opening his mouth, Loki tried to speak them aloud, but found he couldn't. Afraid his surging emotions would cause Hermione to stir; Loki pushed down the desire to admit his true feelings for the time being. Instead, Loki tried to decide what exactly he was going to tell Draco later when he admitted he longer wished to follow through with their original agreement. There had to be some other way for them to defeat Fenrir without Draco having to perish in the midst of it all. Damn the Rime Diamonds and their ability to make him feel all sorts of sentiment both for Hermione and other people as well. Life was far easier when he was busy plotting the demise of everyone around him rather than attempting to discover a way to save someone.
There was a quiet rapping at the door then, and Loki snapped his glare to whoever was behind it, muttering a quiet, "Enter," so as not to wake Hermione. He was unsurprised to see it was Wanda, her face barely peeking inside the small room. "What is it," he questioned, double checking to make sure their naked bodies were completely covered.
"I was wondering if we were still leaving shortly for the lab?" A smirk was playing on her crimson lips, as she tried not to laugh.
"We have postponed our departure for the moment." When Wanda did nothing but smile in return, Loki rolled his eyes with a sigh and carried on with instructions. "Make sure we are awake in two hours' time, and then we will venture to the lab. We're not expected until noon, but Hermione being the ever punctual one insisted we get there early."
"Whatever you say, mischievous one." Before Loki could say anything further, the door slipped shut with a quiet snap, leaving Loki alone with Hermione and his incessant thoughts once again.
Exhaling harshly through his nostrils, he settled into the mattress, relishing in the warmth and comfort Hermione's body provided. As his eyes drifted shut, sleep close behind, Loki thought about all the misdeeds of his past. Letting those Frost Giants into the Asgardian palace had truly been meant for a bit of fun to ruin his brother's big day, but as it turned out, he'd been led to a most heinous discovery—that he, himself, was, in fact, a monster. In that moment, all the pent-up frustration, hurt, and pain from living in the shadow of not only Thor, but Odin as well ripped a hole in his chest making it all but impossible for him to love.
Rubbing a hand roughly down his face, Loki thought about how his brother willingly destroyed the Rainbow Bridge so that Jane would be safe, albeit unable to see him again. If it wasn't for his mother…his mother…the bridge would never have been repaired. Heart clenching, Loki's chest constricted as he recalled the words that led Kurse right to her. "You might want to try the stairs to the left." Those words would forever haunt both his daydreams and nightmares even though he'd managed to have his revenge. Of all the horrible things he had done on Midgard and beyond, having his mother's death on his conscious had to be the worst of all. Thinking of his mother, he knew that she would want him to be better, not to hurt anyone ever again.
Frigga would want him to accept the love of another, and in turn, allow himself to love them as well. Despite everything—his past, his transgressions, his Jotun blood—Hermione loved him. Him. Unbelievable as it was, Loki knew in his very soul that she loved him with everything she had, and that he…loved her too. Hermione made him better, and with her by his side, he could eventually be the person his mother had always dreamed he could be. As consciousness left him finally, Loki made a vow to keep Draco from dying this night, destroy Fenrir, and then confess his love to Hermione, because after everything the both of them had been through, they deserved this…they deserved a chance at love.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
End Notes: Okay…so I again apologize for the delay in this. Life can be difficult, and Writer's Block is a pain in the arse. I'm writing for Camp NaNoWriMo so look forward to the next update soon. Hopefully within the next two weeks. As the school year winds down, I find my time limited, so bear with me please. I love all of you and can't wait to see what you have to say! Please leave me lots of feedback and encouragement! Also…I could use some more song recs! I need some new music for inspiration! Thanks for reading, loves!
xxDustNight