Scene 12
A few days later Breka is released to his quarters, but not yet declared fit for duty. Loki shows up half an hour after he makes it there.
"Can you have visitors yet?"
Breka smiles.
"Of course, why not?"
"I don't know, I wouldn't want to jeopardise your healing process."
"You're worried about me! I'm flattered."
"Of course I'm worried. The whole thing was my fault."
"Yeah and I'm sure you pay personal visits to everyone you've ever fought."
"They don't usually end up in the healers' ward for almost a week."
Breka's features soften.
"I'm fine, Loki."
He freezes.
"I mean, your highness. Please forgive me."
"It's perfectly all right to call me by my name, Breka. Especially when we're alone."
The moment he says it they both become aware of it. They are alone, in Breka's quarters, at nightfall. Loki swallows and squares his shoulders.
"I'd better leave. Leif was very clear on you needing a lot of rest. Have a good night."
"The answer is yes," Breka blurts out.
Loki looks confused.
"To what question?"
"The one you asked me a while ago. You said it wasn't complicated, just a matter of yes or no. It's yes. Please?"
Loki starts to smile, and his gaze is very gentle.
"Are you sure?" he murmurs. "You've been hit on the head pretty hard…"
"Stop teasing. Stop stalling."
"I don't usually take orders very well," Loki says, still smiling. "But I'll make an exception."
He leans in and kisses Breka, a gentle, almost tentative touch of their lips, waiting for Breka's response. And Breka kisses him back with a hunger that surprises both of them, his hands roaming Loki's shoulders and waist. It's a massive turn on, and Loki is struggling to keep control. He breaks the kiss and takes a step back.
"Rest. You're supposed to rest."
"Right. Sorry."
Loki chuckles.
"Never ever apologise for a kiss like that. That memory will keep me happy for quite a while."
He runs his fingers over the bump on Breka's head.
"Still hurting?"
"A little."
Loki frames Breka's face and kisses him again.
"Speedy recovery," he says and pulls away with a sigh.
Breka stays silent for a moment, and then he says:
"You could stay… if you want… I mean…"
Loki is very serious now.
"Are you sure that's what you want? I have quite a reputation… I'm afraid your comrades are going to give you an earful. Several earfuls, probably. Also, the healer prescribed rest, remember?"
"You could still stay. Keep me company. I mean, it'd be nice to… you know… oh Hel, would you just hold me? Please?"
Loki takes one long step and pulls Breka into an embrace.
"Of course. There's nowhere I'd rather be tonight."