Laney held tightly to Loki, feeling instantly nauseated by the motion and swirls of color caused by the Bifrost, causing her to shut her eyes tightly while she leaned against his chest. She was instantly happy once she felt land beneath her feet again. After taking a few deep breaths, she let herself look up to see the familiar city of Yamir just in the distance. "Welcome to Yamir Loki."

Loki kept a tight hold on Laney so she would stay upright when they arrived and looked around for a minute to get his bearings. "This is Yamir? Should we go find Desi first or go back to your place first?" He asked, deciding to follow her lead since she knew the area.

"We're just outside of the city," she replied as she took a couple of steps before she bent over, still feeling nauseated. "I never liked Bifrost travel."

Loki rubbed her back to comfort her. "I think Desi first, she can give you something to calm your stomach." He suggested. "I can even carry you to wherever she is."

Laney shook her head. "There's no need to carry me love," she said as she righted herself again, then took his hand. "It will pass, but we can go and surprise Desi. I'm sure she will be happy to see us."

"Are you sure? I would not mind carrying you at all." He assured her, wrapping his arm around her waist. "Do you want to rest before we continue on?"

Laney smiled and leaned against him. "I'm fine love, I promise. Desi's clinic isn't too far into the town's center."

"Was it like this when you returned to Asgard through the Bifrost?" Loki asked her curiously, letting her guide him through the town. He looked around somewhat, but tensed the moment he saw a Jotun casually walking along like everyone else.

"Yeah. It's never really agreed with me honestly, although that trip was a little rougher than most of them," she answered as she ignored Loki's reaction and kept heading towards the clinic.

"It might be all the recent stress that made it rougher." Loki replied, reluctantly following her. As they neared the clinic, he took a few quick steps back as another Jotun, a woman this time, walked out just as they were approaching the doors. She gave him an odd look, but kept walking. "What is going on here?"

Laney looked up at Loki with a furrowed brow as she opened the door of the clinic for him. "What do you mean?" she asked. "I told you Jotun frequently come here."

"They are just walking around though. Can the others not see them? How do they walk around freely and without attacking innocent people?" He asked, completely dumbfounded.

"Loki," Laney scolded softly as they walked inside. "I told you that the Jotun are not a naturally aggressive race. Not all of Jotunheim is full of evil people hon."

"That is not what I was raised knowing. Odin told me how they would attack simply because you look at them." He told Laney, then held the door open for her to walk in first.

"It's a whole different world than you were taught, my sweet Loki," Emily responded happily, talking a little loud inside, hoping that Desi would recognize their voices.

Just after they stepped inside, an elderly healer walked up to them. "Welcome. Do you have an appointment here today?" She asked sweetly.

Laney turned and faced her. "Vega!" she greeted, recognizing the older woman. "It's so good to see you, but no, we don't have an appointment. We're here to see Desi if she's free."

"Laney? Is it really you?" She asked, then pulled Laney into a hug. "I barely recognized you, you look so different! You are practically glowing!" She said happily. "Desi is in the back. Come on, I will take you to her. Poor thing has been absolutely miserable." She sighed.

Laney smiled and reached back to take Loki's hand in hers before she followed behind Vega. "I hope she hasn't been too upset. She should be excited."

"I don't know what the poor girl has been through, but she seems to be under the impression that his highness Thor is courting her." Vega said shaking her head, making it clear most of them had not believed the story. Loki stayed quiet as they walked, nervous about the several Jotnar working in the back.

Laney giggled and shook her head as she removed the note from her pocket and held it out for Vega to see. "I have a note right here from Thor that states otherwise dear Vega. I'm afraid my boyfriend's brother is quite smitten."

Vega's eyes went wide when she saw the note. "It's true? Her and Thor? None of us believed her." She said, feeling bad. Vega led them to a room in the back the turned to face them. "Wait right here. She is in with a client." She left them right outside and walked into the room. When Vega returned a minute later, she had a big smile for them. "She said you can come in, and Dia is the one in there with her." She told Laney

"Oh!" Laney exclaimed as she let go of Loki's hand and walked into the room. As soon as she saw the little girl she quickly scooped her into her arms. "Little Dia girl!" she cooed to the year old toddler, while her mother giggled.

Dia giggled happily when Laney picked her up and she babbled happily. When she saw Loki standing just inside the doorway, she went quiet and reached out for him to hold her. Laney turned to look at Loki and smiled at him sweetly. "It's okay Loki. You can come in here too. This is Dia and her mom Astrid. This is the little girl I almost adopted."

"H-hi..." Loki told Astrid nervously. He stayed right where he was, scared to come any closer since Dia was Jotun. "I... I think I will stay over here. I'm fine." He said, looking anywhere but at the baby.

Laney sighed as she moved to sit Dia on her hip, then turned to Desi. "Surprise!" she said with a smile. "I come bearing a gift," she added as she held out the note from Thor for her to take.

Dia looked up at Laney then reached for Loki again, starting to get a little fussy. Desi smiled and took the note, opening it right there to read it. "I got the posting!" She squealed excitedly. "He said to be ready because he will be sending word in a few days when I can move!"

"That's exciting!" Laney answered happily, then turned to Loki again. "She wants to see you love."

"I don't-" Loki started to argue when Desi gently took Dia from Laney and put her right into Loki's arms. Dia giggled, then settled down, very content. Loki gave a soft groan when his skin started to change from being in direct contact with another Jotun.

"Do you have a few minutes to step out?" Desi asked Laney. "I need to get caught up on everything!"

"Sure," Laney answered. "Do you need Dia back?" She asked as she walked up to Loki and caressed his arm.

"She can stay with Loki as long as he stays in this room. This will be good for both of them." Desi said and opened the door for Laney. She gave Loki a little smile, noticing how carefully he was watching Laney.

Laney patted Loki's arm. "I'll be just outside the door love," she said sweetly, then stepped out of the room.

Desi closed the door behind them, then turned to face Laney. "How is Thor? It killed me to leave... please tell me he's doing better now." She said, full of genuine concern.

"Thor? He's doing a lot better. Loki spent the day with him yesterday, so I think that helped a lot," Laney replied, filling her friend in. "He's actually the head of council right now because Odin is ill with headaches."

"I will see what I can do for Odin when I get back." Desi promised, still clutching the note. "What about you? I can tell a ton has happened since I left."

Laney bit her lip. "That would take more than a few minutes to tell you Desi," she admitted, then pushed up the sleeve on her dress to show her the mark.

Desi leaned closer to get a better look at the mark. "Holy... Laney... this is a breeding bite." she said, shocked to see one on Laney.

A bright blush covered Laney's cheeks as she let her sleeve recover the mark. "I kind of figured it would be something like that."

Desi gave Laney a curious look, surprised to see her so calm about it. "Um... you know what a breeding mark means, right?"

"You said that Loki was trying to claim me as his. He actually kind of freaked out when he noticed it," Laney said honestly.

"It was a mate mark he tried to make last time. This is... different. Umm... you want to have a family with him, right?" Desi asked, not sure how to tell her.

"Of course I do," Laney replied. "Are you saying that there's a chance I could be pregnant?"

"With a mark that well formed, I'm saying you are. Without a doubt." Desi giggled. "Come on, we need to tell the daddy to be!" She said excitedly.

Laney's eyes widened into saucers. "No Desi. Not here, not around others," she interjected quickly and grabbed her arm. "Loki will freak out and I don't want him to have a breakdown here."

Desi stopped and gave Laney a concerned look. "He won't even be happy about having a baby with you?"

Laney bit her lip and shrugged her shoulders. "I honestly do not know how he would react. He's been saying that he cannot give me children."

"Why does he think he can't give you children?" Desi asked curiously, her healer instincts kicking in.

"He doesn't know if he could love a half Jotun child," Laney replied, her voice small. She let go of her friend's arm, then placed a hand on her stomach. "Are you certain? It's only been a few days Desi."

"I'm sure. Find an excuse to come in here alone in a few days and we can confirm it if you want." Desi said, then went quiet for a minute, trying to find a solution to the main issue. "We need to show him how the Jotnar truly are, and fast. I can host a Jotun dinner party at my place." She suggested.

Laney shrugged. "Every time he's held a baby he ends up enjoying the experience. But I don't know if a full party would be a good idea. What if he met someone and got to talk with them?"

Desi nodded. "Do you think he would do better meeting a male or female? Or would it matter?" She asked curiously.

"I don't think it would matter," Laney replied just as the sound of Dia's laugh could be heard on the other side of the door, making her smile.

"I know someone who would meet with him and be understanding of the situation. Just tell me when and where you want to do this." Desi said, then looked towards the room. "Do you think he's still holding Dia?"

Laney grinned wider. "He could be. Yesterday I was watching over an infant in the Halls of Healing when he showed up. By the time Carla came to give him back to his mom, Loki didn't want to let him go."

"That's so cute! I think he will do great once we get him past thinking Jotun is something bad." She said confidently. "What do you think Thor would be like with a little baby?"

"Thor loves kids," Laney eagerly responded, though her attention went back to the door when Dia laughed again.

"I know I haven't been gone long, but I miss him so much." Desi sighed sadly. "You need to come see me after work, I need to get caught up on everything." She said with a grin.

Laney nodded. "You can come over this evening for supper if you would like." She looked at the door, then back at her friend. "I don't want to keep you, we just wanted you to see us when we got here. I need to fill you in on some things too."

"I'll be there! Want me to bring anything? Food? Drinks? A Jotun?" She said the last part as mostly a joke. "You need to fill me in on everything! I'm so glad you're here!"

Laney shook her head and laughed. "If you end up babysitting Dia, you're more than welcome to bring her, other than that you can bring whatever you want."

"I'm not supposed to be watching her tonight, but I will bring her along if that changes. I'm off in about an hour and then I'll head over." Desi promised, then pushed the door open. Loki was once again sitting on the floor, happily playing with Dia. The extended contact now had him fully in his Jotun form.

"So Loki, what do you think?" Laney asked as she leaned against the door with a wide smirk on her face.

Loki slowly looked up at Laney, knowing she had seen more than enough of how he interacted with the baby. "I did not want her to cry." He said, trying the same excuse again.

Laney raised an eyebrow at him. "Uh huh. Let Dia go back to her mom so we can get out of Desi's way. She still has an hour left to work."

"I don't think I'm in Desi's way..." Loki said, feeling reluctant to return the baby again.

Laney glanced over at Desi with a soft smile, then looked back at Loki. Dia babbled and played with the strings on Loki's tunic before his dark hair took her interest and she gave it a tug. "What is Dia here for today?" she asked.

"Do you remember how she had that bad cold before? It moved to her lungs a while back. She's so much better now, but still needs a breathing treatment twice a week to help strengthen her lungs." Desi explained. "I think she will only need a few more before she's back to being in perfect health."

"That's good to hear. I did not know she had gotten so sick after the cold." Laney watched Loki and Dia interact with great interest and smiled when he unconsciously cuddled her to his chest. "Loki, love, we really need to let Desi work before we get her into trouble."

Loki sighed and let Desi take Dia. "Don't worry. I am watching her tomorrow and I will bring her to visit, alright." She promised Loki.

"Sure, I mean, if we happen to run into you." Loki shrugged, not wanting Laney to know he was looking forward to it.

Laney chuckled and reached out for Loki's hand to help him up, watching as he slowly began to return to his normal skin color. "We'll see you at dinner Desi," she said as she began to walk out of the room.

"See you later! Be ready because I mean it when I say I want to know every single detail!" Desi giggled and watched them leave.

"Are we going to her place for dinner?" Loki asked, trying to brush some lingering blue color from his hand.

"I invited Desi to my place this evening. I hope you will not mind," she answered as they walked out of the clinic and back into the sunshine.

"I don't mind. What she said though about wanting to know everything... what all did you and her talk about?" Loki asked curiously.

Laney shrugged. "She told me how much she misses Thor, I showed her the mark on my shoulder... she said that it will fade with time and that it was instinct for you to make it."

Loki looked away when Laney mentioned the mark. "Did she say what makes me bite? I know she said instinct, but what purpose does it serve?" He asked calmly, trying to just discuss it and understand this time.

"Umm, I didn't get the chance to go in depth with her about it," Laney answered, then bit her lip. "We can talk to her more about it tonight if you want to. It could give you some answers to things."

"I will ask her about it when we see her. It still bothers me, mostly the fact that I can remember everything other than the bite. Did she say anything about the memory loss?" He asked, thinking he could accept the rest of it.

Laney shook her head as she took his hand and led him down another street, heading towards her little home. "She didn't mention that either. I'm curious about that myself."

It wasn't long until Laney and Loki arrived at a small bakery at the end of a street. Laney took Loki around back and up a flight of stairs to a balcony. When they reached the door, she waved her hand, disengaging the spell that locked and protected her home. "Welcome to my place," she said softly as she opened the door, then walked inside.

"How long have you lived here?" Loki asked as he stepped inside and looked around. "It is a nice little place." He said sincerely, but did notice how their quarters in the palace was five times larger at the least.

Laney turned on the lights with a flick of her wrist. "I've had this little place for almost four years I think," she answered. "Everything has gotten a bit dusty without anyone being here in the past couple of months."

"It is very cozy, I like it. Are you still keeping it after we go back to Asgard?" Loki asked curiously.

"I haven't really given that much thought honestly," Laney replied, then proceeded to do a quick cleaning spell to rid the space of dust. She then sat on the sofa she had placed against the wall and curled her legs underneath her. "Would you want me to keep it?" she asked.

Loki walked over and sat down on the sofa, then laid down on his back with his head on her lap. "I don't know. Would you be fully moving in with me, or spending half the time here and half the time in Asgard?"

Laney smiled down at him while she ran her hand through his hair. "Is this you asking me to move in with you full time?"

"Until just now, I thought you had moved in with me. That night I asked if you would stay in my chambers, I thought you moved in then?" Loki asked with a cute grin.

"Clever man," she cooed, then leaned down to peck his lips. "I'll be in Asgard unless you ever want to get away for a while. Yamir could be a vacation spot for us if you want it to be."

Loki thought about it for a moment. "Alright, Asgard is our permanent home and this is our vacation home." He smiled. "I can hire someone to maintain it while we aren't here."

"You don't have to do all of that love. Not if you don't want to." Laney leaned down and kissed his forehead. "I'm proud of you by the way."

He looked up at her, confused. "Proud of me? But why? All I have done is cause you issues and stress."

"For today. You were so great with Dia and so brave about it," Laney replied. "Things may be stressful at times, but I'd never give it up."

"Holding her wasn't easy. I felt so much anger deep inside. I was scared most of the time." Loki admitted in barely more than a whisper, feeling ashamed.

Laney leaned down and cradled Loki's head in her arms. "You were happy to hold her once you were comfortable and you made her happy."

"It took so long for me to get comfortable though. I wish it was easier, I don't know how to fix it though. I don't know how to get rid of the hate." Loki whispered as he relaxed in her embrace.

She kissed his cheek, then the tip of his nose. "It will just take time," Laney whispered.

"Do you think I'll ever get past all this?" Loki asked her. "I want to be the best I can be for you."

"I do, and you are. You can only get better," Laney said softly, then tilted his head back by gently pulling on his hair so she could kiss his lips.

Loki slowly returned her kiss. "Thank you for not giving up on me. I promise I'm trying." He said truthfully, then remembered her nausea. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm feeling pretty good. Maybe a little hungry," Laney answered.

"Should we start on dinner a little early?" Loki asked, not wanting her uncomfortable.

Laney shrugged. "I honestly need to see what I have to fix. I didn't think about it when I invited Desi over."

"Do we have time to go shopping?" Loki asked curiously. "We can go get anything we need, I don't mind." He sat up next to her.

"What would you want to fix? I don't know how to make very much," Laney said honestly.

"Should we send word for mother? I know nothing about making a meal." Loki chuckled, then looked over when there was a knock on the door.

"That may be a bit too late love," Laney said, then stood and answered the door.

Desi was standing at the door with a bag full of groceries. "I remembered you can't cook." She teased Laney.

"Desi, you are a lifesaver!" Laney exclaimed with a smile.

"I know." Desi grinned and walked in. "I got extra veggies since Loki likes them better." She explained. "Now, I'll cook and you tell me all about a certain blond."

Laney laughed and shut the door before she followed Desi into the kitchen. "Well the first thing I should tell you is my father showed up in Asgard."

"Oh my gods, he did?! How is he? What happened?" She asked, shocked by the news. Desi arranged everything she needed and started preparing the meal.

"He's okay... and in royal custody for treason," Laney stated.

"Treason? Not for leaving his post!" Desi gasped, finding that way too harsh.

Laney shook her head then looked at Loki. "No. For trying to hurt someone in the royal family."

Desi got the meal cooking then sat at the table with Laney and Loki. "He hurt you? Damn Laney, tell me what happened." she said, just worried now.

"He didn't hurt me," Laney explained. "I said royal family Desi. He went after Loki by putting an elixir in his drink."

"You know you're part of the family." Desi countered, then looked over at Loki. "I can't believe he would do that. Loki never did anything against Magnus."

Laney shook her head. "We aren't sure. He lied about getting the letters we sent him about our courtship. It really hurt Loki, what he did."

"What did the elixir do?" Desi asked quietly, glancing over at Loki again.

"Do you mind if she knows love?" Laney asked him as she put her hand on his knee.

"I don't mind, but do I have to be right here? Can I go read or nap while you tell her everything?" Loki asked, not wanting to hear it all again.

Laney nodded and kissed his cheek. "You can go in the bedroom baby."

Loki gave Laney a peck on the lips then left the room. "He somehow made him change forms, didn't he?" Desi asked once Loki was out of hearing range.

"He did. I don't know what father put in his drink but he couldn't change back to his Æsir form at all. He had a massive panic attack."

"That is terrible! We need to get him past all this. How has he been with you, since you saw him as a Jotun?" She asked curiously.

Laney furrowed her brow, but a blush covered her cheeks. "I never told you I saw him in his Jotun form."

"I assumed you were with him when he saw your father." Desi said truthfully.

"Yes, I was. But that wasn't the first time," Laney stated.

"Oh really? And what was the first time?" Desi implored, grinning widely.

Laney bit her lip and played with the cloth on the table. "He changed during the first time we made love," she said quietly.

"Wow, I don't even know what to say to that." Desi giggled. "It sounds like everything happened right after I left."

Laney rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly. "Kind of... but we haven't really done anything since then. I think he's afraid it will happen again."

"Wait, he didn't do it intentionally?" She asked curiously.

Laney shook her head. "No, he didn't. I think it happened because of the situation we were in."

"It could be. If he let his guard down that much, it could have reversed the shift. He must truly trust you unconditionally." Desi replied. "I'm guessing that's also when he made the mark?"

Laney nodded and unconsciously reached up to run her hand across the mark on her shoulder. "I won't give you all of the details but it was honestly beautiful to watch him let go like that. He is so beautiful Desi, he really is."

Desi gave her a soft smile. "Encourage him to do it more. Tell him you like it. He needs to know these things."

"I've hinted at it a few times but he's been very reluctant to do more than kiss since it happened. It makes me wonder how he sees me now."

Desi shook her head defiantly. "This is one hundred percent about how he sees himself. You know that. When I was treating his horns, he was terrified because he's convinced he'll scare you away."

Laney sighed and sulked in her chair. "I wish he could see how I see him. He says he cannot remember biting me, but to me it was a special moment."

"That's not too surprising. It's hardwired into them to bite and not something they think about. Loki also hasn't learned about any of this, so it's probably confusing to him. Rest assured though, the fact that he left the mark is what matters." Desi explained.

Laney nodded and gave Desi a tiny smile, then stood to check on the food. "I love him so much Desi. When I found out he really was alive... when I stood in front of him in his cell. All I wanted to do was hug him and cry. I still can't believe I kept my cool like I did."

"And he loves you so much that he just told the entire Jotun race that you are the only one he will ever have children with. You are his and he will fight to the death for you. Love like that is rare and powerful." Desi stood up and turned the heat down on the veggies, then left the food alone to finish cooking.

Laney turned and looked down the hallway that led to her bedroom. "Do you think he will be happy? If we test for sure and it becomes a positive result?" She asked softly.

"If how he looked with Dia is any indication, I think he will be. Once he overcomes his fears, he's going to be a great dad." Desi said truthfully, then turned her attention back to the food. When it was done cooking about twenty minutes later, she set the table and served the plates. "Do you want to wake him?"

"Sure," Laney answered with a smile, then gave her friend a long hug. "Thank you for helping me feel better," she murmured.

"That's what friends are for." Desi said sweetly.

Meanwhile Loki was curled up in bed, sound asleep, snoring softly. The mess of pillows and blankets on the bed made it look like he was curled up in a little nest.

Laney walked into the bedroom and smiled at the sight before she sat on the edge of the bed and reached out to run a hand through his hair. "Loki?" She called softly.

He groaned softly but slowly woke up when she called him. "Is it time to get up already?" He mumbled, still half asleep.

"Dinner is finished if you're hungry, but if you still want to sleep I can save some for you," she answered with a soft smile.

"I will eat. Are you two done talking about that stuff?" Loki asked and stretched.

Laney smiled at him and nodded. "We are. It's okay to join us."

Loki rubbed his eyes as he sat up. "I didn't even realize I was tired. I was just going to stretch out and relax." He explained, then pulled her into a kiss.

Laney squeaked, startled at the movement, but gently kissed him back. "You've been under a lot of stress the past couple of days. It makes sense for you to want to sleep and shutdown for a while."

He nodded in agreement. "Dinner smells really good." He said as the smell wafted into him. "Shall we?"

"We shall," Laney replied softly, then pecked his lips once more before she stood. "I think you will enjoy Desi's cooking."

Loki smiled and stood with her. Taking her hand, he walked to the table with her where Desi had dinner fully served for them. While not as elaborate as feasts in the palace, it was still a nice feast for the three of them. "Come on before it gets cold!" Desi told them.

"We're here," Laney said with a giggle as she took her seat and began to eat. "I love the sweet carrots you made Desi. You know Yamir carrots are my favorite."

"I know, that's why I picked them out. I wasn't sure what Loki would like best though." Desi admitted.

"It all tastes perfect, thank you." Loki told Desi, already halfway finished with his plate.

Laney chuckled as she watched him eat. "You're going to give yourself an upset stomach if you keep up like that." She looked up at Desi and grinned, although her thoughts were still elsewhere.

Loki nodded and started eating slower. "You know, I'm still waiting to hear about a certain handsome god and what he's been up to." Desi reminded Laney. Do you think he misses me?

"Actually Loki will know more than I do since they've been spending more time together," Laney replied as she took another bite, "But he's doing okay and he misses you."

"He does? Did he say that?" Desi asked curiously. "I want so badly to just go back." she said sadly.

"When we were out, he seems to miss you but is still unsure about everything." Loki explained and Desi just nodded.

"We can go back in a few days Desi," Laney promised. "Besides, we're here now, so you're not alone. The stress of everything back home was too much for us both so Frigga allowed us to come here."

"Do you think I should go back with you, or wait until he's had some time to think about things?" Desi asked Laney.

Laney finished her last bite, then took a drink of water from her cup. "You'll go back with us. Don't forget you have a new post to start."

"I know, it's just... is it always this hard? I've never had feelings like this for anyone before." Desi sighed, then turned her attention back to her food.

"It gets easier, I promise. My brother is not very comfortable with sharing his feelings with me yet." Loki explained, hoping it might help.

"Loki's right. It will get easier as time passes. Besides, I know for a fact that he likes you a lot Des," Laney added with a grin before she stood to take her plate to the wash basin.

"Just set your plate in there, I will clean up." Desi told Laney. "This will be a long few days, but I've already started packing."

Laney nodded. "I will need to start doing the same. I'm glad I don't own much, but some of it can be kept here since me and Loki agreed to keep this place as a way to get away from the palace now and then." She placed her plate in the basin, then refilled her cup before she took a long drink.

"Do you think I should do that as well? To have a place for when I visit clients here?" Desi asked, thinking it might be easier. "I will be coming back a couple times each month."

"I think it would be. Do you own your place or pay on it?" She turned and asked, cup still in hand.

"I still pay on it, but it's nearly paid for. I think I only have five months left and it's mine." Desi replied, thinking about it. "I will also have to see what my quarters in the palace will cost." She said, thinking out loud.

Laney shook her head. "I don't think they will cost you anything. Frigga never mentioned anything about paying for room and board."

"I forgot to ask her, I was just so excited about the post. I know I'm keeping the same quarters I was using."

"If you do any work for the palace, room and board is automatically included." Loki told them both, then finished the last of his food.

"See?" Laney said with a grin. "Nothing to worry about." She walked over and grabbed Loki's empty plate and added it to the basin before she sat back down. "Do you have any more questions?"

"None that Loki will want to hear." Desi admitted.

"I'm a big boy, I can handle it." Loki argued.

"We'd like to discuss how you are in bed." Desi said, only half teasing but it made Loki blush. "When did Odin's headaches start?" She asked Laney.

Laney chuckled and reached out to hold Loki's hand. "You had questions for her if I'm not mistaken Loki," she said softly, then turned back to Desi. "It started the night of Loki's panic attack. The night father betrayed him."

"Do you think the stress was just too much for him? I can send something to help him, but it would be better if I could examine him first." Desi said truthfully.

"I'm not really sure honestly. But Thor has taken up the slack since Odin has not felt well since." Laney replied.

"Does that mean he's kind of like the king now, until Odin recovers?" Desi asked curiously.

Laney shrugged as she thought about it. "I'm not really sure. Frigga has been making some decisions on things too, not just Thor.

"Even she backed off when Thor told Odin off. Kind of wish I could have seen that." Loki chuckled.

"Woah, and no one bothered to tell me this story?" Desi said in disbelief.

"Oh!" Laney exclaimed as she remembered. "Thor has made Loki his official advisor. I am so happy for the both of them."

"He did? That's great! I told him to not take no for an answer!" Desi said happily. "Congratulations!" She squealed happily.

Laney looked over at Loki to see he was blushing as he stared down at the table. "I know he's happy about it. The position will benefit the both of them greatly."

"I bet he looked so handsome and fierce when he was standing up to Odin." Desi daydreamed, blushing softly as she tried to imagine it.

"You have it so bad!" Laney gushed with a laugh as she sat back in her seat. "I can't be too harsh though. I was the same about this man right here before I had to move. I just didn't have anyone to gush to like you do."

Desi blushed deeply. "I didn't mean to say that out loud." She mumbled. "Besides, you've said many times how beautiful Loki is, and how much you love being in bed with him." She teased and then giggled at the proud smirk Loki gave them.

"Desi!" Laney exclaimed as a bright blush filled her cheeks. "I didn't give you every detail and you know it."

"I didn't say you gave every detail, but you've told me that you like being in bed with him... and how beautiful it is when he lets go." She giggled, noticing that Loki tensed, but she didn't bring attention to it.

Laney shook her head at her friend. "You are such a brat missy," she grumbled.

"I was just proving the point that you do gush over Loki." Desi giggled. "I better start the clean up, it's getting late."

"Do you want me to help you?" Laney asked as she resisted to hide her head in her hands from being embarrassed. Loki is going to want to talk when she leaves.

"Sure, if you want." Desi said as she got up. "You two need to come over for lunch tomorrow." She told them, making sure they couldn't argue.

Laney smirked as she let go of Loki's hand with a caress, then stood to join Desi in helping clean up. "What are we having?" Laney asked.

"I think a nice big salad sounds good for lunch. I also need some help with some high shelves in the closet that will be no issue for Loki." Desi admitted.

"I'm sure he won't mind helping out," Laney replied as she took a plate Desi held out for her to dry. "We aren't doing anything tomorrow but I do want to take Loki to the beach before we have to go back to Asgard."

"You can do that the day after. I only work tomorrow morning, but I have a full day the day after. My last day I just take my credentials back and say goodbye." She explained..

Laney nodded as she placed a dry plate back in its place before she took another one from Desi to dry. "You'll still get to see everyone. It just won't be every day," she replied with a soft smile. "Although I know you'll miss seeing Dia all the time."

Desi nodded and finished washing the dishes. "I really am going to miss her. She is so sweet. I'm sure I'll find another baby to play with." She said, giving Laney a little grin.

Goosebumps ran up Laney's arms as she continued to put dishes away. "You never know. Loki's grown partial to little Ari since he met him in the halls of healing."

"You know exactly what I meant." Desi giggled. "I can't believe I only have one more full day of work..." she said, a bit stressed about moving as well as excited.

Laney narrowed her eyes at her friend, then glanced at Loki, who was watching them intently while he sat at the table. "Remind me to come by to get all of my medical stuff at the clinic before we go," she replied as a smile appeared.

"You can come by on my last day and get everything. Once we're done there, we can return to Asgard the next day, so it will work perfectly." Desi suggested.

Laney smiled and leaned against the counter. "Sounds like a plan."

"Dia will also be there that day. She can keep Loki company while we go to the healers only area to get our stuff." She said and noticed how Loki's expression suggested he wasn't happy about it, but he didn't argue it.

"It will be nice to see her before having to leave. She'll be so big by the time I'll get to see her again," Laney agreed. She looked over at Loki and smiled at him. "Still feeling tired love?"

Loki nodded. "Yes, a little tired." Loki admitted.

"Make the day trips with me then and you can see her a few times a month." Desi encouraged.

Laney looked over at Desi and grinned. "We'll see. It depends on what my own post will be like in the palace. We will have a lot going on."

"We will have to work something out once we get back." Desi said happily. "I'm going to head home, but I'll see you tomorrow!" She said and hugged Laney.

Laney hugged her tightly in return. "You be safe walking home. I know it's not that far, but watch yourself okay?" she asked softly.

"I will. I walk home at night all the time." Desi said, appreciating the concern. She waved to Loki then left for the night.

"So... you gave her all the details?" Loki asked curiously, amused.

Laney shut the door, then sealed it with magic before she looked back at Loki with a smirk on her face. "No, not all the details, love. Promise."

"I'm not upset about it, I'm just curious as to why girls enjoy discussing their boyfriends performance." He said truthfully.

Laney walked up to him and stood between his legs since he'd turned in his chair. "I didn't talk about your performance," she cooed as she wrapped her arms around his neck. "I told her how amazing you made me feel."

"Darling, I'm just curious about why girls talk about it. That is truly all I want to know. I don't mind that you told her." He said truthfully.

"It's just nice to have someone to be girly about it with," Laney replied as she played with his hair. "I don't think you'd like for me to be that way with you about it."

"Probably not." Loki chuckled. "Well, I'm glad you have her to be girly with." he smiled.

Laney chuckled along with him, then tilted his head back to give him a sweet kiss. "Do you want to stay up for a bit or would you rather go to bed?" she asked softly.

"Do you mind if we go to bed? Today was a long day and very stressful." He admitted, not wanting to disappoint her.

"No, I don't mind. I am going to shower before I lay down though," she replied sweetly. "You can go ahead and lay down if you like."

"Or I could shower with you." Loki countered with a smirk.

Laney chuckled. "I thought you were tired?" she asked ruefully.

"I am not too tired to wash every inch of your beautiful body." Loki grinned. "If you want some time alone though, I do understand." He said sincerely.

Laney felt herself blush as a shiver ran up her spine at the thought. "I don't think I could ever deny you," she whispered.

Loki grinned and stood up. "Let's go then." He started walking to the bathroom, pulling his clothes off an article at a time and dropping them along the way.

Laney smirked as she followed behind him, openly staring as Loki revealed more and more of his body to her the entire way. Once they walked into the bathroom, Laney walked up to the rain shower and turned on the water before she adjusted the temperature. A smile came to her face when she felt Loki step up behind her and rub her shoulders, then start slowly working on removing her top. "Someone is suddenly eager," she murmured as she helped him remove her blouse before she turned and faced him.

Loki gave a soft sigh. "I guess I'm just feeling a bit needy because of earlier." He admitted.

Laney placed slow lingering kisses from his shoulder to his neck, satisfied with the sigh that left his lips due to her actions. "It's okay to want to feel close, to want intimacy," she murmured against his skin.

He wrapped his arms tight around her waist. "I never want to feel like I'm losing you again." He said softly. Lifting her chin, he kissed her deeply, pulling her to be flush against his chest.

Laney melted into his embrace and eagerly kissed him back, letting herself nip his lower lip, hearing a low growl in response. "I love when you do that."

"I love when you nip me." Loki said softly, then knelt down to remove her trousers and underwear. Once Laney was undressed, he helped her into the shower.

She sighed at the feeling of the warm water on her skin, tilted her head back, and let her hair get drenched. "I like it when you nip me too," Laney replied, just loud enough to be heard over the water.

Loki frowned when he noticed the bite on her shoulder again. "I forgot to ask Desi about this." he said softly, then grabbed a cloth and soap.

Laney felt the entire mood between them shift as she watched him lather up the cloth he held. "I asked her about it. What would you like to know?"

"I just want to know why I don't remember it, that's all." Loki answered, then pulled her into a kiss. "But I don't want to know if it is going to cause stress between us."

Laney gently kissed him back, then smiled as he began to wash her shoulders. "I mentioned it to Desi. She said that it's second nature for Jotuns to bite their partner and that it means that they are deeply connected to that person. It's a good thing."

"But that doesn't explain why I can't remember it. That is what bothers me most." Loki replied softly, then leaned down and kissed her shoulder before he ran the cloth across her chest, then down her stomach.

She leaned into his touch as he now ran the cloth over her back, then bent to wash her legs. "You can ask her tomorrow if you'd like. I don't have to be with you for you to ask her if you don't want me to be."

"I'm fine with you being there and I'll ask her at lunch." Loki replied then finished washing her body and hair. He tried to hide how exhausted he was emotionally.

Laney gently took the cloth from him. "Do you want me to wash you?" She asked. "I know your tired sweetheart."

"Yes please, darling. I feel like I could sleep for a week." He sighed softly. "I don't ever want to lose you..." he added, still scared from when he thought he lost her earlier that day.

Laney lathered the cloth once more before she ran it over his chest and stomach. "I thought I was losing you too," she admitted.

"I know my temper can get the best of me, and I know my panic attacks can be difficult... but those are the times I need you most. Even when angry, I will never, ever harm you." Loki vowed, meaning it.

She walked behind him so she could wash his shoulders and back. "I trust you Loki. I trust you with my life," Laney replied, just as she let the cloth run over the curve of his ass, making her smile.

"Does that mean you won't assume I want distance between us if I get upset again?" Loki asked, still feeling hurt by that.

"I am sorry I assumed such, Loki. I regret saying what I did," Laney replied as she gently turned him to face her. "I promise we will always talk things out and I will not make any assumptions."

"Thank you darling. The one thing I'm sure of is that I always want you with me. It's you that keeps me calm and sane." Loki said truthfully. When they were both washed and rinsed, he turned the water off and used the spell to dry them.

"You're welcome love," Laney replied sweetly, then pecked his lips. "Let's get us both into bed. I am rather tired myself."

Loki returned her kiss then motioned for her to lead the way into the bedroom. "Ladies first." He grinned, wanting to enjoy the view.

Laney smirked at him and turned and walked into the bedroom, putting a bit more sway into her hips than normal, knowing he would be staring at her. When she reached the door she turned to see he hadn't moved. "Joining me?"

"Huh? Yes, I'm coming." Loki quickly said, pulling himself out of his thoughts. He hurried into the bedroom with her and sat on the edge of the bed. "Should we dress or sleep nude?"

"I don't plan on dressing in anything," Laney replied honestly as she pulled back the blanket then climbed into bed.

"Then I won't either." Loki smiled and laid down underneath the blankets and snuggled right up to Laney, enjoying the feel of her warm skin against his cooler skin.

Laney smiled as she caressed the arm that laid around her waist. "Goodnight love. I love you."

"I love you too." Loki said softly, then drifted off to sleep.

The following morning, Loki woke up early and found Laney still fast asleep in his arms. He smiled as he watched her sleep for a few minutes. When he got up, he was careful to not wake her. Out in the hall, he found his trousers and underwear. He pulled them on while using a spell to clean them. When he went into the kitchen, he looked through the groceries that Desi had left and decided to make an attempt at making eggs for breakfast, to surprise Laney.

Laney sighed, then rolled over in the bed and reached out for Loki to cuddle against him, only to meet emptiness. She lifted her head and grumbled to see the bed was empty, only to hear rummaging from down the hall. She sat up and rubbed her eyes before she got up and walked into the bathroom. After she was finished she took her robe off the bathroom door, put it on, and quietly padded down the hall and into the kitchen. "Loki?" She called softly.

"I'm in the kitchen darling. I think breakfast is almost ready." Loki called out to her. It barely even looks edible... he thought as he looked at what was supposed to be eggs and toast on the plates.

She walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist and looked down at the food, the eggs were runny and the toast a bit burnt. "You cooked?" She asked, a smile on her face.

"No. I don't think so. I tried... but none of this looks right. I'm sorry." he said sadly.

"It's alright Loki. I love that you tried." Laney kissed the back of his shoulder and caressed his stomach. "How about I go downstairs and get something from the bakery and tomorrow we can both cook breakfast together. I can help you out that way."

"Are you sure?" Loki asked nervously. "I...I've never tried to cook before." he admitted, feeling like he had to explain himself.

"Loki, love. Yes I am sure. This was very sweet of you." She gently turned him to face her and got on her tip toes to give him a gentle kiss. "I will help you tomorrow and if you want to cook tonight we can do that too."

Loki returned her kiss then smiled. "Yes, I would like that very much. Maybe I can learn how to cook for you and surprise you in the future." He said sweetly.

Laney smiled up at him and ran her hands up and down his arms. "That sounds like an amazing idea. Is there anything special you'd like from the bakery?"

"I don't think there's anything specific I'm in the mood for." Loki answered, pulling her close as he thought about it. "I will get this mess cleaned up before you get back." He promised.

"I'll be right back. I'm sure they will have muffins fresh from the oven by now." Laney pecked his lips then unsealed the door before she pulled away from Loki then walked outside and downstairs to the bakery.

Loki watched her go, then began cleaning the mess in the kitchen. It only took a few minutes before he gave up and just used a couple spells to clean everything perfectly.

Meanwhile Laney talked to the baker for a few minutes while they prepared her order and promised to pay them before the lunch rush. She grabbed the bag of muffins then walked back outside and went upstairs to her little home. "Loki?" She called as she walked back inside. "They had blueberry and chocolate, so I got both."

Loki stepped out of the kitchen with a smile. "They both sound good. Should we split them so we can have a bit of both?" He suggested.

Laney sat on the sofa, then patted the spot beside her. "I got a couple of each. Are you going to eat two whole muffins?" She asked with a smirk as he sat on the sofa with her.

"I'm confident in my ability to eat two muffins." He chuckled.

"You and your sweet tooth," Laney replied with a smile as she opened the bag and pulled out a muffin for them each. "I didn't get any milk, I doubt Desi bought some yesterday."

"No she didn't, but I can make us tea... I do know how to make tea." Loki assured her with a chuckle.

Laney smiled. "Tea sounds lovely."

"Coming right up." Loki leaned in and gave her a quick kiss, then stood up and walked into the kitchen. He softly hummed to himself as he made them both tea. When it was ready, he returned and handed her a cup as he sat down.

"Thank you," Laney said sweetly, then blew on the liquid before taking a sip. "What would you like to do today? We have a while until we'll meet with Desi."

"What is there to do around here?" Loki asked curiously and picked up a blueberry muffin and took a bite.

"Well, there's the beach, but we can do that tomorrow. There's a huge market here if you want to explore that. Umm... there's some trails we could walk or borrow a horse and ride as well I believe," Laney answered, trying to think of things they could both do.

"Maybe the market for now, since we will be meeting Desi? Then a ride this evening after we have visited with her?" He suggested, then took another bite of muffin. "These are good."

Laney chuckled, then took a bite of her own muffin. "That sounds like a plan to me." After another bite she licked her lips. "I've always loved these."

"They are different from the muffins we occasionally have in the palace. I like these better." Loki admitted and finished his. "Do you think Desi would want to go horseback riding with us?"

Laney shrugged as she licked some chocolate from her fingers. "I'm not sure. I can ask her though. Are you planning on talking to her today still?" She asked.

"I want to. The memory issue is really bugging me still. If she can help me make sense of it, I think I can do better at handling the other aspects." Loki said truthfully.

She smiled and curled her legs beneath her, holding her cup in her lap. "I'm sure Desi will be able to help you and ease your worries. She has treated many Jotun people, and he knows a lot of their culture."

Loki gave a small nod. "I'm trying to be more positive about things, and I think I've found something good about the horns."

"What did you find out?" Laney asked, curious.

"Once the horns are fully in, I will truly be horny all the time." Loki grinned mischievously.

Laney scoffed and rolled her eyes at him. "You are such a brat," she said with a giggle as she leaned forward to put her cup down on the coffee table. "I'm glad you're feeling playful."

"I really am trying to change my attitude though. I don't know how easy it will be, but I know I'll have you with me." Loki said sincerely.

She reached over and squeezed his knee. "You'll always have me Loki. I don't plan on going anywhere."

"That's what I love about you, I know you won't leave me when life gets rough." Loki said truthfully, then raised her hand up and kissed the back of it.

"Is that the only thing you love?" Laney teased as she turned her hand to caress his cheek.

"Not at all. I love everything about you. You are perfect to me." Loki said truthfully, leaning into her touch.

Laney scooted closer to Loki so she could lean against him, then kissed his shoulder. "I love everything about you too."

Loki wrapped his arm around Laney and held her close. "I want to spoil you at the market."

"Oh really?" She asked with a chuckle. Laney reached up to run a hand through his long hair, then pecked his lips.

He pulled her into a loving kiss before she could pull away then sipped his tea. "Should we get ready to go?"

I wonder what he will want to buy me? Laney put her cup off to the side, stood, then stretched her arms above her head. "Might as well. The market should be open by now."

Loki trailed his hands along her sides as he stood. "I will find a top to wear." He said then walked down the hallway to collect his clothes.

Laney smiled then followed him into the bedroom. "You can be a tease sometimes, you know that?" She asked with a smirk on her face. She walked up to her dresser and began to look for something to wear.

"Me? A tease? I don't know why you would think that." Loki grinned and made a little show of pulling his top over his head. "You were going to cut my hair." her reminded her.

Laney turned and smirked at Loki as she let the robe she wore completely fall to the floor before she reached for a blouse. "Do you want your hair cut?"

Loki didn't answer at first, too busy raking his eyes up and down her body. He cleared his throat, then rubbed the back of his neck with his hand. "It might be good to change it up a bit." He shrugged.

Laney pulled on an under shirt then a blouse before she began searching for underwear. "How much do you want cut off?"

"I don't know. I think shorter than it is now, but just long enough to annoy mother." He chuckled.

"So long enough to pull back with a tie?" Laney asked as she finally found underwear, put them on, then pulled on a pair of trousers.

"Yeah, that sounds about right." Loki mumbled, tilting his head as he watched her dress.

Laney had her back facing him, unaware of his staring. "What did you say? I didn't catch that." She leaned over her dresser to grab a hair tie then stood straight to look in the mirror when she saw Loki's eyes locked on her body through the reflection, making her blush red.

"I said that length for my hair is good." Loki repeated, shamelessly staring at her. "You are the one being a tease."

"How am I being a tease?" Laney asked with a laugh, then turned to face him. "I'm innocent here," she added with a smirk.

"No, you are being overly beautiful." Loki grinned playfully. "I love it when you blush."

Laney double checked her hair tie, then shook her head at him. "You always make me blush," she replied softly as she walked up to him and wrapped her arms around his waist.

"Such is the talent of a silver-tongue." Loki teased softly, holding her close. "Are you ready to be spoiled?"

Laney grinned up at him. "I can't wait."