*smut warning*

When Loki woke the following morning, he got up to get a glass of water. He quickly found that Desi had already left for work, but had left a note saying they were welcome to stay at her place as long as they wanted.

Grumbling in her sleep, Laney rolled over before she opened her eyes. She sat up and rubbed her eyes before she yawned. "Loki?" she called.

"I'm out here darling." He called from the sitting room. He had successfully made toast and laid it out with cookies and juice, to try and surprise Laney with a better breakfast.

Laney smiled at the sound of Loki's voice, climbed out of the bed and walked down the hall and into the kitchen. "Did you sleep well?" she asked while trying to hold back a yawn, still feeling gripped by sleep.

"I did. I tried to stay up and wait for you, but I must have fallen asleep. I tried again to make breakfast. It's in the sitting room." He told her, then led the way with the jam he had gotten in the kitchen.

Laney smiled wide at the platter that Loki laid out for them both. "Loki, this is so sweet of you!" She took his hand and quickly pulled him to her to give him a kiss. "Thank you."

Loki smiled and returned her kiss. "Did I do better this time?" He asked, hoping he had.

"Yes, you did," Laney murmured then pecked his lips once more before she sat on the sofa and grabbed a piece of toast to eat.

He smiled brightly at her approval. "I would still like for us to make breakfast together sometime." He said truthfully and sat next to her.

Laney swallowed her bite of food and nodded. "I would like to as well. Maybe we will have time before we leave for Asgard tomorrow morning?" she asked. "I don't know when Thor will be greeting us."

"We could get up early and make breakfast." He agreed. "He is supposed to send word today of his arrival time."

"We will have to go by the house today and see if his letter came when we get stuff to go to the beach. That is if the weather didn't make everything a mess last night," she replied.

"I think it should be fine darling. We can go after we eat, and if the beach does not work, I'm sure we can find something else to do." He assured her.

Laney took another bite of toast after she added some jam to it. "I hope the beach will still be okay to go to. I am looking forward to showing it to you."

"I am looking forward to going to the beach. I just know that if we can't, we can still have a nice day together." Loki commented, then picked up a cookie and took a bite.

She smiled at him after she finished her toast, then grabbed her cup of juice and took a long drink. "I always enjoy myself in your company." Laney stood from the sofa and walked to the window to get a peek of how it looked outside. The street was damp from the rain, but it seemed as Yamir was still bustling with people going different places and going about their usual day.

Loki stood and walked over to join her. "It looks like it will be a nice day following the storm," He commented, seeing the mild looking weather. "Do you want to get dressed and head back?"

"We can. The town seems busy today, so it will be a crowded walk," Laney replied as she leaned back against him.

"That's fine, I would like to see the town at full operation." He admitted, holding her close.

Laney chuckled and turned to face Loki in his embrace. "Then you shall get to," she said softly as she met his eyes.

Loki leaned in and kissed her softly. "Let's go get dressed." He said after. He was excited to explore the town and beach with her.

Laney took his hand and led him back to the bedroom before she peeled off the night shirt she had worn, only leaving her in her underwear while she looked through Desi's box of clothes. "Desi won't mind if I borrow something," she said as she quickly found a pale yellow sundress that caught her eye and pulled it from the box.

Loki tilted his head and watched her, enjoying the view. "I think we need some time to ourselves once we get home." He said softly.

She turned to him as she pulled on the dress, her brow furrowed. "Why?" she asked, her voice a tad stern, before she took a breath. "Is something wrong?"

"No, nothing is wrong. We just haven't had much time alone lately and I miss it." Loki said truthfully.

"We will have all day today and tonight to ourselves," she pointed out. "I thought you meant that you wanted time apart. I am sorry I misunderstood."

"Gods no. I never want time away from you. I just want us to have some time together." He clarified.

Laney walked up to Loki and placed her hands on his chest, caressing along his collarbone. "Today is all about us then," she said softly, "What do you think about that?"

"Are we not visiting Desi today?" Loki asked curiously but was also very distracted by the feel of her hands.

Laney shook her head. "Desi's last day of work is today and I think the clinic is hosting a small dinner for her as a goodbye." She leaned forward and kissed his bare chest. "It's just you and me today."

Loki gave a soft sigh in reply to her kiss. "You make it hard for me to keep my hands off of you." He said softly, but with a soft growl to his voice.

A shiver rolled through Laney's body at the deepness of his voice, feeling as it settled in her belly. She met his eyes and bit her bottom lip. "I'm not stopping you," she whispered.

"Fair enough." He growled. Loki quickly pulled her close and crushed his lips against hers. His hands pulled her dress up enough to slip underneath and caress her sides.

Laney eagerly returned his kiss as she wound her hands into his ebony hair. Their lips melded together like they hadn't touched each other in months, when it had only been a few days since he'd granted her the intensity she'd been wishing for. When breathing became important Laney barely pulled away and ran her tongue along his bottom lip. "There's my lover," she whispered, "I've missed you."

Loki replied with a soft moan. "I have missed you as well, we have just been so busy." He said softly, then pulled away just enough to pull her dress off, not caring that she'd just put it on.

Laney watched him toss the dress to the floor while her hands continued to play with his hair. "You've also been reluctant," she replied, then placed an open mouthed kiss to his shoulder. "Don't think I haven't noticed."

"I was just hoping you wouldn't mention it." Loki admitted with a sigh, but decided to not focus on that detail. He turned them and pushed her back onto the bed and grinned at how she looked. Wearing only underwear now, Laney's skin looked as if it glowed in the morning light of the sun.

Laney looked up at him and was instantly reminded of the night of their first coupling and how he looked to her in the moonlight. Though now as Loki stood before her in the light of the sun his skin looked as if it were made of marble. She reached out for him and smiled when he took her waiting hand. "Why?" she asked, her voice soft.

"Can we please not talk about this right now?" He asked, knowing it would ruin the mood and that was the last thing he wanted.

Laney caressed the palm of his hand and met his eyes. "Alright," she whispered. "But I'd still like to talk about it at some point." Laney gently pulled on his hand to make him hover over her as she sat up on her elbows to meet him in a soft kiss.

"It's alright, we can talk about it now." Loki said, changing his mind as he moved to sit next to her, feeling like the mood was over now. "What would you like to know?"

Laney felt herself wilt as she moved to sit up and pull her legs to her chest as she watched him. "Loki... why won't you touch me? Did I do something wrong?"

"I was touching you and I had planned to touch you a lot more... that was why I didn't want to talk about all this right now... I knew it would ruin the mood." He said then laid back on the bed.

She turned and looked down at him before she scooted closer and ran her hand from the base of his throat, down the center of his chest and stomach, until she reached the band of his shorts. "I'm sorry."

Loki watched her closely. "I was scared, alright? I couldn't remember biting you so I was scared I would do something worse and have no memory of it." He explained.

Laney took a deep breath before she moved to straddle his lap, then lay on his chest. "Loki, I trust you with my life," she said softly, "I know that you would never hurt me, and the mark you left isn't sore and it means something very special. It's a product of our love for each other."

"I know that now, but I didn't before, which is why I was more distant. I was scared I would hurt you, but now that I understand, I'm not scared anymore." Loki replied as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

"Well that's a good thing," Laney murmured as she placed a gentle kiss on his chin as she barely rolled her hips against his, creating just a miniscule amount of friction.

Loki gave a soft gasp and his arms tightened around her. His stubborn side wanted to resist, but he knew it would never last. "What are you doing?"

"I want you to see that you will not harm me," Laney answered with a soft smirk as she rolled her hips again. "The only way for you to really see is to face your fear."

"But I'm not scared anymore. That's why I suggested alone time to begin with..." he replied, trying to help her see that he was already trying to move on from it.

Laney leaned down and nipped his chest, her eyes alight with mischief. "Prove it," she taunted.

Loki gave a soft groan in response of the small bite, then he met her eyes. "What has gotten into you today?" He asked, but was clearly approving.

Laney shrugged as she slid lower and nipped his sternum. "I've been wanting you the past couple of days," she admitted.

Loki moaned softly, growing aroused from her ministrations. "How much of me do you want?" He asked her teasingly.

"Oh, I don't know..." Laney teased as she ran her hands gently over his hips. "I think I would settle for all of you, would that suffice?"

"What if I end up wanting to bite you again?" Loki asked, genuinely curious but also worried he might.

Laney bent down to kiss him just below his belly button. "If you do, I am okay with it. Gall said it's completely natural for you to."

Loki laced his fingers through her hair, now visibly aroused in his trousers. "Are you sure you're alright with it?" He asked nervously.

"Yes," Laney answered as her eyes stayed locked on his. "The answer will always be yes."

Loki gave a little nod, but still wasn't sure how he felt about biting her. "Alright, I won't argue then." He promised.

Laney crawled to lay back on his chest and kissed him deeply, one hand moving to grip onto Loki's hair, while the other wrapped around his neck, making a headrest for him. "I love you Loki, so very much."

"I love you too darling." Loki flipped them so he was on top, then he got up. Leaning down, he left a trail of kisses down her stomach and thighs as he removed her underwear.

Butterflies swarmed Laney's stomach as she watched Loki's every move. She watched his eyes, now blown with desire as he removed his shorts, leaving him completely nude for her eyes to see. "You're still beautiful," she murmured as she rested one arm by her head, her hair splayed out around her, almost giving her the look of having a halo of auburn.

Loki rubbed his arm and gave her a nervous look. "What if I shift again?" He asked in barely more than a whisper.

Laney sat up and wrapped her arms around his waist, running her nails gently along his lower back. "If you shift, it means you're completely comfortable with me seeing you that way," she explained softly, then kissed his stomach.

"It won't... bother you?" He clarified.

"Baby, of course not." Laney could tell that he was stalling, which was leading her to believe maybe we was not past thinking he would hurt her like he said. "Are you okay?" she asked him. "I'm not going to force you to do something you don't want to do."

"Wha? No, I'm fine. I just had to be sure." Loki replied, then shifted them so she could properly lay on the bed. He laid her down then spread her legs and kissed her thighs.

Laney gasped at the sudden feeling of his lips on her skin, making her instantly reach down and put her hands in his hair. "That feels good," she murmured.

Loki playfully nipped her thigh, in full control of the playful bites, although he stopped just shy of the softer skin he desired, just to tease her first. "I'm glad you like it." He replied, keeping his lips close enough for her to feel his breath on her skin.

"You are such a tease!" she gasped as her hips lifted on their own accord, trying to get any contact from him she could manage.

"Not so fast darling. I want to take my time with you." Loki grinned and moved to her other thigh, licking the entire length of her inner thigh.

A sound of frustration came from Laney's lips, since he had decided to hold her down with one of his arms. "Lo-oki."

Loki gave her a mischievous grin then worked two of his fingers into her warmth. "Yes darling?"

Laney's head fell back with a moan as she pressed her hips towards his hand. "Gods..."

"You can just call me Loki." He chuckled, then kissed his way up her stomach and chest. When his lips met hers, he was already positioned between her legs.

Laney laughed and shook her head at him as she caressed his cheek. "Ass," she chortled, then brought him down to her lips again.

Loki kissed her deeply, then smirked at her. "I do have a nice ass, thank you for noticing." He teased smugly. Before she could offer a retort, he removed his fingers then entered her fully, burying himself in her warmth to the hilt. The cry she uttered made him smirk with a sense of pride, happy he could cause her such pleasure.

Laney locked one arm around his neck and pressed her forehead against his shoulder. Her other hand began to travel the length of his spine, then ran across the curve of his ass, which made her smile. "Yes you do, love," she agreed before she proceeded to nip him on his shoulder.

Loki gave a soft moan when she nipped his shoulder. "As do you." He mumbled, then started to move his hips to a slower, more powerful pace. He pulled almost all the way out of her each time so she could feel his entire length each time he pushed into her. As his own feeling of pleasure built, it triggered his shift again.

A smile lit up Laney's face as she watched his body change from alabaster to the color of the ocean. She couldn't stop the moans from leaving her lips as she legs wrapped around his waist. "My beautiful Loki," she purred.

"You are the beautiful one." Loki said in a moan. He caught sight of his now blue hand and faltered in his pace for only a moment. Refusing to let it bother him, he held his pace and focused on how beautiful she looked under him.

Feeling his entire body change made Laney gasp loudly due to the ridges that ran the length of his whole body. She tightened her grip around his neck while her other hand found one of his hands and laced her fingers with his. "You feel amazing," she crooned, feeling the coil in her belly tightening quickly.

"Do you like me better like this?" Loki asked, sincerely wanting to know. He gave another moan, feeling the pleasure build through his entire body.

Laney pressed lingering kisses to his shoulder and neck. "I love you no matter how you look," she answered honestly.

"I meant... the pleasure..." He clarified as he started moving his hips faster.

"Oh... gods... Loki!" she cried, unable to give him an answer as his increased pace had caused her climax. Laney dug her nails into his shoulder and hand as pleasure coursed through her body, taking her breath even though she wanted to scream.

"So beautiful like this." He moaned, feeling his climax triggered by hers. Loki rocked his hips faster to intensify their pleasure.

Unable to hold it in any longer, Laney cried out into the skin of his neck as she hid her face in the crook of his neck, feeling wave after wave of pleasure continue to roll through her body before she felt completely spent. She let her head rest back against the mattress as she gasped for air. "Oh my gods..." she rasped out.

"Gods Laney..." Loki moaned and tensed as he released into her core. While he took no notice, his seed was not cold this time.

Laney lazily caressed Loki's back once he let himself relax against her, feeling that he was gasping for air just as much as she was. A small smile came to her face as she turned and kissed his cheek, then his neck. "Wow..." she murmured.

"Good wow... or bad?" Loki asked once he had caught his breath some. He moved to lay next to her and nuzzled his face into her neck.

"Good... amazing, breathtaking," she answered with a soft giggle as she rotated to face him, laying on her side.

He pulled her closer and kissed her softly. "No one has ever made me feel the way you do."

Laney kissed the tip of his nose, then his lips. "You always make me feel so special. I'll never get enough of you."

"I won't ever be distant with affection again, I promise." Loki said sincerely.

She smiled and snuggled against his chest. "That's good to hear," she whispered. "I thought I had done something wrong."

"Not at all, I was just scared of myself." He admitted. "You know Desi is going to be mad at us for this, right?" He chuckled.

Laney smiled as she curled one leg up to rest on his hip. "She'll get over it. I'll just tell her to wash the sheets," she said with a giggle as she absently ran a hand through his hair. "You know? We'll have to experiment with these," she added in a murmur while she gently ran one finger along the length of one of his horns.

A shiver ran down his spine at her touch. "Should we ask someone first? I don't think they are supposed to feel like that." He admitted, worried about injuring his horns.

"I don't think there's anything wrong. But if you want to ask Desi, we can. Or we can see Gall before we leave?" she suggested.

"I think either would be fine, just to make sure it's... normal." Loki replied.

Laney kissed his forehead as she ran her thumb along his jaw. "Who would you feel more comfortable talking to? I cannot ask for you, love."

"W-why not? I don't mind you asking for me." Loki said truthfully.

"I don't know how it makes you feel. Only you can tell someone exactly how it feels when your horns are touched," Laney explained. "I am curious if it varies from person to person and I am the only one that causes you to feel a sort of pleasure when they're touched."

"Will you at least be there when I ask? I guess I would feel more comfortable with Gall, but only because he has personally gone through all this." He replied, hoping it wouldn't offend Desi when she found out.

"Of course Loki. If you want me there when you talk to him, I'll be right by your side," she answered. Laney propped herself on her elbow and bent down to kiss him sweetly. "Do you want to see him after we go by the house? On the way to the beach?"

Loki returned her kiss then sat up. "Yes, I think so. I don't know what he's going to say, but I know that letting my imagination and anxiety figure it out will be worse than whatever he says."

Laney stood on partially unsteady legs, grabbed her underwear from the floor and pulled them on before she grabbed the dress Loki had tossed to the floor. "We better get dressed then."

Loki chuckled and got out of bed to look for his clothes as well. He finally found them in the bathroom and changed. He picked up his sleep trousers on the way back to the bedroom. "I'm ready." He told Laney.

"I am too besides needing help to tie the back of this dress," she replied as she turned her back to him. "Are you going to carry those to the house?" she added.

"Carry what?" Loki asked with a grin as the trousers vanished. He walked over and leaned down to press a kiss between her shoulder blades, then tied the dress for her.

"Thank you," Laney said softly, then turned and faced him. "We better go before Desi gets home."

"Would she get home this early?" He asked curiously and took Laney's hand to walk out with her.

"Only if she takes her lunch at home," she replied as she locked the door behind them, then walked out into the street.

"I would think that is unlikely with this being her final day." Loki said and looked around as they walked. "It is cooler today, I like the breeze."

They rounded the corner and came into the view of the market. "It is cooler. The beach will be quite breezy I think."

"Will it be too cold for you? I don't want you getting sick." He said, just looking out for her.

Laney shook her head. "No, it shouldn't be. I can bring a cloak with me if it will relax your worry."

"It's alright, I can always let you wear mine if it did prove to be too cold." He said with a soft smile. "Should we pack lunch and have a picnic?"

Laney's face brightened as they turned on her street. "That's a good idea."

"I thought it sounded like a nice way to spend the afternoon." Loki said happily. He gave her hand a little squeeze as they walked up the steps.

"I agree," she commented as she unwarded the door and walked inside. "I have a basket we can use on a shelf in the kitchen."

"I will go find it." He gave her a quick kiss, then went into the kitchen. It only took him a few minutes to find the basket and he left it on the counter for now. "I have the basket." He called out to her.

Laney came into the kitchen with a smile on her face. "What do you want to bring with us? We could see if the bakery has any sandwiches if you want."

"That's fine with me, they have very good food." Loki agreed. "Do we need anything else before we head out?"

"We can take a blanket with us if you'd like," Laney replied as she took the basket from the counter. "After we go to the bakery we can go by Gall's. He lives on the coast. He's a coastal Jotun actually."

"What is a coastal Jotun? I've never heard of that." Loki admitted. "I already have a blanket... oh, if my brother has sent word, where would we find his note?"

"Thor's letter would be in the box beside the door," Laney answered as they both stepped back outside and she opened the letter box to find a folded letter with a golden seal. "A coastal Jotun is a part of the race that lives on the coasts of the ocean on Jotunheim. The planet is not entirely ice and snow. It has forests and such too."

"It does? I never knew there was more to the realm. I've personally seen very little of it." Loki admitted, wondering how deep the lies went.

"Majority is ice and snow, but there's also a vast forest and an ocean," she explained as she held out Thor's note to Loki. "That's what Gall has told me."

Loki took the note and opened it. "Do you think he would be willing to tell me about Jotunheim? Not today, just sometime in the future?" He asked, then read the note.

"You can ask him anything you'd like," Laney answered as they walked back down the steps. "What does Thor say?"

"He's going to be here shortly after breakfast. That will give you and Desi time to get your belongings from the clinic." He replied.

"That's good," she replied as they made it to the front door to the bakery. "What kind of sandwiches do you want me to get?"

Loki thought about it and shrugged. "I think anything is fine, I don't feel like I have a preference right now.""

Laney leaned up and pecked his lips. "I'll be right back." Laney turned and went into the bakery and ordered some fresh bread, cheese, and some chicken sandwiches for them to share before she exited with the basket now full of goodies. "Ready to go?" She asked.

"Yes, but is there a reason why I can't go into the bakery?" He asked curiously as they walked.

"No love, did you want to go in?" Laney asked. "I didn't mean to not include you."

"It's alright. I thought maybe my kind wasn't welcome or something." Loki said truthfully.

Laney shook her head as she took his hand in hers. "Of course not Loki. I didn't know you wanted to go in with me."

"I normally go everywhere with you. It really isn't a big deal though, I was just curious." Loki replied.

"I'm sorry love. I wasn't thinking I guess." Laney turned and led him down the street that would lead them to the beach, as the path they walked began to turn more sandy.

"Please don't worry about it darling. I'm not upset, I promise." Loki assured her. "Is this the area Gall lives in?"

Laney nodded as they continued forward, the water now able to be seen in the distance. "Yes it is. He lives right off the beach in the third house down I believe." She stopped once the path turned to complete sand and removed her flats. "I love the feeling of sand between my toes."

Loki gave her a curious look then removed his boots and socks. He made their shoes vanish, then smiled at her. "Sandy toes it is." He chuckled.

She laughed as they walked along the beach and took in the smell of the salty air. "Gall's house is just up here. It looks like he's outside."

"Do you think the beach on Jotunheim is like this?" Loki asked, mostly thinking out loud. As they got closer, Gall came out to greet them.

"I'm not sure," Laney replied. "I'm sure it wouldn't be as warm."

"Enjoying the lovely day after the storm?" Gall asked them, more cheerful than he had been last time.

Laney grinned as they walked closer. "Yes we are," she answered. "How are you today Gall?"

"I am very well. I just received word from my wife. She will be here in one weeks time." He said happily.

"I'm so happy for you!" Laney exclaimed as she placed the basket she carried on the sand for the moment. "Would it be okay to speak with you for a little while? Loki has a couple questions."

"Of course. Would you like to come in? I have fresh cold tea ready." He offered them.

"I don't mind. Would that be okay Loki?" She asked him.

"Yes, that's fine." Loki agreed, then picked up the basket with his free hand and followed Gall into his house. It was very neat and tidy inside, but everything was dull in tone, mostly light blues and greys.

Laney followed behind him and shut the door behind her. "Your home is wonderful Gall, as always."

"Thank you. I finished preparing the nursery this morning. I am so relieved everything has been resolved." Gall led them to the sitting room. "Make yourselves comfortable, I will be right back with the tea." He said, then walked off to the kitchen.

Laney sat down and smiled to herself as she looked around the room. Hopefully I will be planning our nursery soon.

"Something on your mind darling?" Loki asked and sat on the sofa. He set the basket on the floor at his feet then looked over at Laney, hoping she would join him.

A blush filled Laney's cheeks. "Just thinking of the future," she answered.

"I think of our future all the time." Loki replied with a smile. "Please come sit with me." Gall walked in and handed them each a tall glass of iced tea.

Laney took her glass then sat beside Loki and took one of his hands into her lap and laced their fingers together. "Thank you for the tea Gall."

"Anytime." Gall smiled. "Now, what can I answer for you?" He asked as he sat in the chair on the other side of the coffee table.

"It-it's my horns... they feel... well..." Loki mumbled, embarrassed to admit it.

"Ah yes, the horns are intriguing. When they are fully developed, they are nearly indestructible in a fight, but with the right touch can bring intense pleasure." Gall explained.

"Does it matter who touches them?" Laney asked, curious.

"What do you mean?" Gall asked her.

"Can pleasure be caused by anyone or is it just a partner that can cause it?" Laney asked. "Say for example, a clinic exam."

"I have never known anyone to find pleasure during an exam. It would be comparable to having any other intimate part of the body examined." Gall explained to her. "In terms of other situations, that is dependent on the individual and what arouses them. For some, any touch will do. For others, they must have a deep connection with the person."

Laney nodded as she caressed Loki's hand with her thumb. "We just noticed it yesterday honestly, but have yet to really explore it."

"It can be difficult to find what really works on immature horns. Once they are fully in, you will quickly figure out what he likes. So for now, do not be discouraged if you try something and it has a completely different effect the next time. That is normal at this stage." Gall assured Laney.

"Thank you Gall. This is new for the both of us," Laney replied, then looked at Loki. "Do you have anything else to ask him?"

"No, I don't think so. I just wanted to know if it was normal to feel like that." Loki answered. "Thank you Gall, I really appreciate it."

"You are welcome anytime and I hope to see you both again soon." Gall said happily.

Laney took a long drink of her tea then looked out the window. "We're planning on staying on the beach most of the day today."

"The beach is very nice today, I was down there earlier to collect shells." Gall told them.

"Oh I would love to find some to bring back to Asgard." Laney replied as she turned back to look at him. "I think Frigga would like some to turn into jewelry."

"That is what my wife does. I wanted to surprise her with some." Gall said with a smile.

"I'm sure she and your son will be happy to be with you again," Laney said happily.

"We will be in Asgard in a few weeks and I would love to introduce you both to my family." Gall said sincerely. "We might also need a sitter for a few days." He hinted.

Laney grinned. "I would be happy to babysit if you need me to," she answered. "All you have to do is ask."

"Thank you. I will send word when I know our travel arrangements." Gall said, then finished his glass of tea.

Laney nodded, then stood. "Thank you for letting us come in to see you today. I don't want us to take up too much of your day."

Gall and Loki stood as well then Loki picked up the basket. "I have enjoyed your company and I sincerely mean it when I say you are welcome anytime." He smiled and showed them out the front door.

"I enjoy your company as well Gall, thanks again," Laney said as she gave him a hug.

Gall returned her hug and waved to them as they continued their walk to the beach. "It's good to know it's normal... what my horns feel." Loki finally commented.

Laney leaned up and kissed Loki's cheek while they walked. "Yes it is... and it honestly gives me ideas."

"What kind of ideas?" Loki asked curiously with a playful tone. Once on the beach, he found a nice place and set the basket down. A colorful picnic blanket appeared in his hands and he spread it out for them.

"I'd like to see just how you feel when they're touched in the heat of... things," Laney answered bashfully. She sat down on one side of the blanket and sighed contently as the midday breeze blew around them.

Loki sat down, then turned and laid down with his head in Laney's lap. "Now that I know it's alright, I'm curious to see what you can make me feel as well." He admitted.

Laney smiled down at him as she ran her fingertips gently along his jaw and down his neck. "There's many possibilities."

"I look forward to being at your mercy for every possibility." He grinned. "The sound of the waves is so relaxing. I could sleep like a baby right here."

"If you fall asleep, it's alright," Laney said quietly. "I've fallen asleep out here reading a book more than once." She leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to his lips while her hand ran along the exposed skin around his neck.

Loki returned her loving kiss, then sat up and moved to sit right next to her. "I don't want to sleep and miss such a perfect day with you. I want to make every moment count."

"You're sweet," she cooed. "If it were warmer I would say we could go for a swim."

"It is warm enough for me to swim." Loki chuckled. "I am perfectly content right here though." He said and tried to peek into the basket.

"Getting hungry love?" Laney asked. "You can open it if you like."

"I am... cookies aren't a very filling breakfast." Loki admitted and opened the basket.

Laney chuckled and watched as he pulled out a couple of sandwiches and some cheese. "It looks really good."

Loki handed her a sandwich, then glanced through the basket to see what else they had. "You know, I did happen to notice that you went distant, thinking about the future after Gall mentioned his nursery." Loki said casually.

A nervous smile showed on Laney's face. "Perhaps... but I think most women would, don't you?"

"I honestly don't know. I just know that the moment a woman sees a baby, something in their brain tells them they must also have a baby." he replied with a little shrug.

Laney chuckled. "Not all women are that way. I've seen some that despise children or just do not wish to have their own."

"You tend to be like that. You get distant with daydreams every time." Loki pointed out.

"I guess I can just see myself with a little one at some point is all," Laney replied, then took a bite of her food. "I would love to see a little boy or girl with black hair like their father, running around."

"I don't... maybe someday." Loki agreed, not wanting any upset today. He took a bite of his sandwich then watched the waves for a few minutes. I wish that ring was ready...

Laney smiled at him and nudged her shoulder against his. "I'm happy to see you start to be a little more open about things."

"I am truly trying to be better for you. I want to always make you happy." Loki said truthfully.

"I'm always happy when I'm with you," Laney responded, then grabbed a piece of cheese and popped it in her mouth. "The only time I wasn't was when I had to learn to live without you... then the news of your death."

"You will never have to live without me again darling, I promise you. We are finally together just as we are meant to be." Loki leaned over and softly kissed her cheek, knowing it would make her blush.

Laney turned her head so she could capture his lips in a lingering kiss. I want to tell him so badly, but my gut twists at the thought of his rejection. She pulled away with a soft smile. "I love you, my Loki."

"I love you too... but... have I done something wrong? I can feel the way your mood shifts, and I don't know. Since we came here, it's been happening often." Loki sighed, trying to think back. "Are you scared of me because of how I lost my temper just before we left?"

Laney shook her head and curled her knees to her chest. "I could never be scared of you. I don't mean to be all over the place either, there's just a lot on my mind these past few days."

Loki nodded. "I will be better behaved in the future." He promised her. She can still be upset with me even if she isn't scared... he thought, deciding it was still his fault. I need to find a way to fix it.

"Loki, you've done nothing wrong," Laney answered, her food forgotten. "I promise you that."

"It's alright, I won't get upset. I know I acted very out of line. I imagine mother isn't too happy with me either. I will work to make it right." He promised her, sincere in his efforts to do better.

Laney sighed and hid her face in between her knees, feeling frustrated. "I don't fault you for your behavior around either of our fathers."

"Wait... is it your father that has you upset?" Loki asked, feeling like he should have considered that sooner.

Laney shook her head, unable to keep it a secret any longer. Laney lifted her head and met his eyes. "Loki, I have to tell you something... but I want you to listen to me entirely okay?"

Loki looked away, feeling like the worst was about to happen. "You can tell me anything." He said softly. I can't lose you...

"It's nothing bad. In fact I see it as something special and a good thing that's happened." Laney moved to completely face him and took both of his hands. "The mark that you made has a significance to it. Gall calls it a breeding mark."

Loki tried to process her meaning, but felt even more confused. "Is that because it was our first time being that intimate?" He asked, trying to think logically about it.

Laney shook her head. "It's something that would happen every time in this instance because of the significance." Laney squeezed his hands, feeling her own shake with nerves. "I am getting tested tomorrow to be absolutely certain, but it means that I am with child."

Loki looked down at their hands, taking a moment for what she said to sink in. "No... that's not possible. I use spells... good spells." He said, trying his best to not panic.

"You shifted our first time," Laney said gently. "Gall told me that if you didn't use a specific spell or potion, that with the way my mark looks, it's pretty much guaranteed."

"The spells have always worked before... it shouldn't matter which form I'm in... I'm so sorry." Loki said softly then turned away, feeling like he had cursed her. Now she will leave me... I have literally created a monster.

Laney quickly moved to stand on her knees and cupped his face in her hands. "Do not. Do not be sorry that we created a life. I was shocked... I still am shocked. But I'm not sorry."

"You know what that child will be like." Loki said, refusing to meet her eyes. "There is no place for another Jotnar in Asgard... Odin would never even allow that."

"Loki, the baby will be half Asgardian. The child will be a part of the family and I believe that both of your parents will be happy to hear they will have a grandchild on the way. That's if the test will come back positive."

"It's not that simple... what if I can't handle having a half Jotun child? That hate runs too deep inside me." Loki told her, opening up about that fear.

Laney gently moved his hands to rest on her stomach. "Could you hate something that is a part of us both?"

Loki quickly but gently pulled his hands away. "I fear that I can hate the part that is from me. You have no idea what Odin put me through in order to ensure I would always hate the Jotnar."

She let herself sit back down onto the blanket, feeling tears well in her eyes. "I wish I could help you get past it Loki... but if I am expecting, I want this baby."

"I would never ask you to not keep the baby, I just don't know what to do. I could never forgive myself for rejecting or harming my own child." Loki said truthfully.

A tiny smile came to Laney's face. "This is the reason I stopped and looked at the little blanket and why I've been closer to Dia. Since I have had time to think about it, I have been wanting to hold our little one."

"I knew it all meant you were wanting a child, but you didn't really hide the desire from me." Loki replied. "I always imagined we would have a family, and I always wanted a family with you. Even after we were separated, the thought still came to mind, right up until I found out what I am." He said softly.

"It still can, Loki. What you are doesn't matter to me, who you are does."

"I don't trust myself though. I want to, but I can't." Loki sighed, broken hearted by it.

Laney leaned forward and quickly pecked his lips. "I trust you," she whispered.

"Maybe by time the baby is born I will have worked through it." Loki said softly, still full of doubt. I always wanted a family with her.

"We will get through it together sweetheart," Laney said softly. She took one of his hands and gently placed it on her belly once more. "I was supposed to test tomorrow... but if you want, we could go today. Would that make you feel better at all?"

"Honestly, I don't know if that would make me feel better or not... I don't know what would help. What if I can't get past it?" Loki asked, fearing that the most.

"I will tell you this. I told Gall that I was scared to tell you because I didn't know what your response would be. He told me that Jotun's are very well known for never abandoning their child, in fact, they're protective of their children." She squeezed his hand in hers. "I know what you're thinking, about your own biological father as well, and I believe there's something else to that story."

"What do you mean? Like I wasn't abandoned as I've been led to believe? No... I can't deal with anymore lies. I don't care what happened, I don't want to know the truth." He said, emotionally tired. "Gall doesn't know what Odin put me through."

Laney caressed his hand as they both rested on her belly. "Loki, what I mean is, if the Jotun are not known for abandoning their children, something had to have been a miss. Maybe something that dealt with customs."

"If so, there is a good chance that Odin wouldn't even know the truth then. We would have to go directly to Jotunheim." He shrugged.

Laney nodded. "It's something to think about for the future, if you would like to explore that part of yourself."

"What would you do, in my place?" Loki asked, valuing her opinion.

"If I were you, I would be certain that going to Jotunheim is something that you really want to do first. Because if I am expecting, both of our lives will be changing a lot," Laney answered softly.

"But... it doesn't have to be a bad change, right?" Loki asked hopefully. "When we return, I will ask Odin and see what he says. Can we decide from there?"

"This baby, if it exists, is not a bad change at all," Laney assured. "I promise you that, but yes. We can talk to Odin when we return."

"I just want to see what he can tell me. If he can give me answers, we don't have to go anywhere. I just think he's the best place to start. Will you be there with me through this?" He asked her softly.

Laney grinned and reached up to caress Loki's cheek. "I will never leave your side."

Loki leaned into her touch. "If I have to go to Jotunheim, will you go with me?" He asked her.

"If you wish me to, I will be there." Laney placed their food to the side and cuddled up against him. "Do you want to know for sure Loki?" she asked in a whisper.

"I always need you with me... I can't do any of this without you." He said truthfully. "I think we should find out, so that my imagination doesn't get out of hand."

"We can go to the clinic now if you want to," Laney murmured. "I would like to know for sure myself."