Mabel threw punch after punch at the swinging bag in the training center gym, the frustration driving her on. It was better when she thought she was asexual. Less complicated. Nothing she could find led her to believe that touching led to visions like the ones she was experiencing.

"Hey, easy there Tiger," said Scarlet, coming into the gym. She held the bag for her as Mabel went to town, hitting and kicking it. She was soaked with sweat, her muscles throbbing, but she couldn't stop. It was the only way to keep her from going to his apartment.

Finally, her body gave up. She dropped to the mat and panted on her back.

Scarlet sat beside her and waited until Mabel caught her breath.

"Listen, I thought about what you and I talked about," said Scarlet.

Mabel propped herself up on her elbows and looked at her friend.

Scarlet's voice got low. "There's some truth to what you said. But I don't know what to do about it."

"Scar, I have to tell you something." Mabel reached for her towel, and Scarlet handed it to her. She wiped her face. "There's a lot to tell you. Because I trust you." Mabel imparted the need for secrecy through her gaze.

Scarlet nodded slowly, accepting the terms.

Scarlet's eye were wide. She ran her hand down over her face. "I have no words," she said. "Actually, not true. I have a few. What was it like?"

Mabel blushed, the vision of Loki's perfect body coming to mind, their skin together, his scent. "Magic."

Scarlet propped her chin in her hand. "How many times?"

"Three."

"Good lord woman. Is there going to be a fourth?"

"There can't be. We can't."

"Why?"

"What if he gets reset? How will my heart recover? It's… it's involved now." She felt a hot tear roll down her cheek.

"Why did you keep coming back?" asked Scarlet. "He's a devious, rotten schemer."

"He's not. At least he was… I don't know. He still is I guess. I know he has some sort of plan he's coming up with involving the TVA. Mobius will see that it doesn't come to fruition."

"Have you considered he's using you?"

"I have. But I don't think he is. He's sweet to me. He's gentle. He considers me, and he's a… generous lover." She blushed. "He's the most attractive being I've ever laid eyes on."

Scarlet sighed. "It sounds like you're already in love Mabes."

Mabel hung her head. "Maybe."

"These visions you're having, they always happen when you touch him?"

She nodded.

"Then you need to follow the thread. It sounds like they're becoming more clear the longer you're around him. It may be related to what's going on with your file."

"It's not fair to use him like that."

"Doesn't sound like he's complaining."

Mabel bit her lip, trying not to smile.

"As for your file," said Scarlet. "I'll swing by Mobius's desk and see if the papers are there. His behavior is so weird."

"I know, it's not like him at all. Thanks Scar."

"You can repay me with details. You are going to see L1130 again right?"

"I… I'll have to think about it."

Scarlet eyed her shrewdly. "Girl…"

Mabel grinned.