Hell folks, glad to be back with another chapter for Fallen from Grace. I hope I didn't make you all wait to long for this. Sorry for those who may not have been as enthused with the previous chapter The Director's Interlude. I thought it would be nice if people could see the broad prospective of this story from just outside Loki's and Irene's views. Like for example I just introduced the Captain into the story, he had a slight interaction with Tony. From the Avengers they seemed to have met previously at some point and they hold some form of dislike for one another so I wanted to show that. And also I wanted to show Tony's reasoning as to why he would even want Irene under his care in the first place instead of just randomly coming along and just saying to her "Hey sugar tits, I want you to work for me and my company just cause!"
Because we all know Tony Stark doesn't do things without a motive, he always seems to want some sort of gain. Let's face it, he's also a businessman. (Not these days since he has Pepper to run things.)
Tony can see that she is, by her own right, a genius. It could also be the fact that Pepper seems to have a liking for her works, and Tony is enamored with Pepper and is willing to do things for her and thus wanted to offer Irene something so that she may offer him something back in return: her music. Something original and totally unique for Pepper. Tony will see this as a win-win situation. But he does seem to realize Irene has some problems: she didn't have any form of education prior to now. Even with that knowledge he's going to offer her a chance to learn, and she will earn her own source of income. That's maybe Tony's only redeeming feature when it comes to Irene, he wants her for something yes but he's giving more out to Irene then what Irene could give to him.
I think you guys would like this chapter but anyways let's address the people who review!
AkeraWriterOfTheNight: I don't care if you don't like horror! Crimson Peak looks like a masterpiece, and it's the Director of Pan's Labyrinth how could one not be interested!? Imagine Tom's character as a always wearing black Loki with round shades, you'll do fine!
Reader103: Glad you seem to like the previous chapter, but as for what Irene would say to this. You will find out by just scrolling down. This is the point of my story, I like to keep people guessing. I try not to leave many cliff hangers but I don't want to provide to much to my readers to ruin the story by making it predictable, to boring that way. Its a delicate thing, and I try my best to satisfy my readers. So I do hope you enjoy this chapter since it will provide an answer as to what Irene would say.
littlechick2013: Thank you so much!
moonsword17: Thank you for the review as always, sorry for updating so late but I do try. Been so busy...
Maz: Thank you also for reviewing my story :D
Anyways thank you all so much for your support and enjoy the chapter!
Chapter 15: Irene Who?
It was Stark who decided to answer.
"Point being: is that we want to offer you a job."
Irene's wide chocolate eyes stared at them blankly. Her mind processing the words over and over again in her mind, not sure if that was what Stark actually said or if it was just maybe her imagination. Everyone was watching her closely, even Loki who was still by her side, was watching her. His green eyes piecing and familiar. When her mind decided to finally 'click' back into action her lips parted and a simple, but silent, 'o' escaped her slightly parted lips. She nervously met the one eye stare of the Director, what form of job offering were they giving her? She wanted to look at Loki, but she was to scared that she might give him away so instead she just bravely stared forward, doing her best to ignore the nervous fluttering in the stomach.
You want to offer me a job...for S.H.I.E.L.D.?
Fury snorted, somewhat amused. "No, I'm not." His eye scanned her from head to toe and shrugged his shoulders, "No offense...but you're really not S.H.I.E.L.D. material."
"Pity." Loki drawled, pretending to be disappointed. "You could have provided me information from them, but I guess that would have been to easy."
The corner of Irene's lips twitched, wishing she could laugh.
Everyone else seemed to think she was taking the Director's jab in good humor.
So, if not for you than who is offering me a...job? Irene chose to ignore the Norse God next to her, her mind wrapping around the idea of having a job. She never had one before, what would having one be like? Would she like it? What would she do? Wait...what was she qualified for anyways? Her brows furrowed as all these questions assaulted her mind.
"That would be me." Stark stated. He flashed her a rather boyish grin. He seemed excited about this.
Irene's lips pursed, her mouth set in a thin line.
Coulson let loose a deep chuckle, "She doesn't look to fond of the idea, I don't think she likes you yet."
Stark gasped, looking slightly offended at the agent. He placed a hand over where his heart would be, pretending to suffer from what Irene thought was a mock of a mortal wound. "Ouch! How could you say that? Everyone loves me!" he sighed dramatically "I just think you're jealous because I just attract all the ladies."
Loki was muttering something under his breath.
"Keep telling yourself that." Coulson quipped back.
Irene shrunk back when Stark turned on her, his brown eyes were wide and searching. "You don't believe that agent do you? I mean seriously, look into my eyes and tell me that I'm not handsome!"
Irene felt her face get hot, she sent Fury a pleading stare. She didn't want to be apart of whatever this was! Why would someone be so concerned about looks? Why was this relevant in the first place? And why was he dragging her into this!?
At her pleading look, Fury finally decided to swoop in and save her.
"Enough! We are getting off track, we don't necessarily have all day. Unlike some people, I have work that needs to be done."
Tony seemed slightly bummed at the fact Fury ruined his fun yet again, "Fine." He agreed reluctantly, Tony started to tap his fingers against his armchair, and continued to talk on topic this time. "What I'm offering is a internship here with Stark Industries, I'm well aware of your lack of education. I'm willing to overlook that and pay you to learn."
Work and education? Irene picked at her nails, fidgeting. She wanted to believe in this man before her. She really did. She shrunk away from all their expectant stares, she wished she could consult and look at Loki. She glanced away every time they tried to make eye contact with her. And for a split second she glanced over at her friend. Loki's green eyes were piercing, and also familiar. He was leaning against the wall, his long arms crossed in a relaxed manner though his tense shoulders gave him away.
What of my father? She questioned. They said they would protect her. Will they protect her?
Coulson's blue eyes shined reassuringly. "With us or with Stark you wouldn't have to worry about being in any immediate danger."
Tony's eyes seem to light up, he looked highly amused "Is that's what's holding you back? Safety?" His eyes seemed to sparkle with confidence, "With me you wouldn't have to worry about anything, I guarantee that you won't be harmed in my care."
"The Governor General isn't someone you should take lightly." Coulson advised wisely.
"Pfft!" Tony snorted, rather unattractively. "What can the Canadians do aside from saying sorry, eating frozen syrup, and drinking Tim's all day?"
Fury grunted, rubbing his forehead tiredly. "Arrogance will be your downfall one of these days." His lips tugged downward.
"I like to think that my arrogance, impetuosity, impatience, selfishness and greed are the qualities that make me the lovable guy I am."
"If that's the case then you're really more delusional than I thought."
"It must be hard for you to get the big picture when you have such a small screen." Tony covered his left eye, smiling tauntingly.
Irene couldn't believe these guys as they argued childishly at one another. Agent Coulson didn't seem all to disturbed by it, so she wondered if these was a common occurrence between Fury and Stark. Loki though seemed to be enjoying the discord as the Director and billionaire traded verbal blows. Some in which caused Irene to be even more confused then before.
Coulson... Irene signed meekly as the sound of the men's voices escalated trying to drown out the other.
"Director, you can argue with him later. We need to think about Miss. Hawkins for now, you two bickering won't help her come to a decision." Coulson reasoned diplomatically.
"Fine, I see your point."
"Whatever..."
The two men reasoned, glaring at one another. A silent promise that it wasn't over and that they would continue much, much later. Now that the tension dwindled Irene felt like she could finally breathe. Thank goodness.
"They are not really that professional." Loki appeared at her side, she could see him out of the corner of her eye. She didn't make any notion that she heard him, though she agreed with him. It was fascinating how these people interacted though, it was new and slightly disturbing. But she felt fully invested somewhat in this odd occasion. She still wished to share her thoughts with the God.
Is Mr. Stark apart of S.H.I.E.L.D.? She suddenly felt silly for not asking before.
"He's more of an consultant, not much of a active member like me or the director." Coulson informed her politely.
"But we do have a connection, if anything were to happen either S.H.I.E.L.D. or myself would take care of the problem." The dark haired man sounded sincere with his declaration, if not still slightly smug. "If you work for me you will be safe, you'll get a good education, and work will bring in money so that way you can settle in fully. But you need to be all incognito."
"Incognito?" Fury repeated unenthusiastically, clearly not impressed at all.
"Well, duh! She can't really walk around with the surname Hawkins we gotta change it up a bit if we gotta keep her old geezer off her trail." Stark replied seriously, taking up that 'duh-you-should-have-know-better' tone. "So I took the liberty in making a new file for her!"
"When?" Coulson seemed surprised.
Stark was smiling triumphantly and pulled out something black and rectangular. Irene tilted her head a little to get a better look, she never saw something like this before. Stark didn't seem at all phased by her reaction as he tapped the screen and it came to life.
"J.A.R.V.I.S."
"Yes, sir?" A voice responded back.
Wow! Irene's eyes sparkled with wonder as she eyes the little black rectangle, what was it made of and how did it operate? Could she get one? She certainly hope so, she had seen similar devices that her father used but never like this. Was the person speaking so loud and perfectly clear a real person or was it something else? Trying to be inconspicuous she was slowly moving her seat closer to the billionaire so she could get a closer look at what the man was holding. She blushed when she she saw all eyes were all on her, and she had the decency to look sheepish. Stark seemed entertained by her behavior though.
"Do you have the new files I requested?"
"All of it is ready for you, new identification is ready for use. Birth Certificate, social security, medicare, and all other important documentation is accounted for."
"Great, I'll deal with everything else when I get home."
"Would you like me to inform Miss. Potts?"
"No, that will be fine. Just make sure she will be home on time tonight I have a surprise for her."
"Certainly, sir."
With a flourish Stark returned the little black device into his pocket. "There, I have most things completed already. She has credit cards and all in her name and a decent alibi that we would have to go over eventually." He gave Irene a meaningful look. She assumed that he was already expecting her to accept his offer. And the Director and the Agent slightly disturbed with all the care that Stark had put into this.
"You came prepared, that's new." Fury mumbled.
Stark sighed, "Situation called for it, but we don't have time for that I think we already spent enough time already and I really don't have the time to play nice with you." Dismissing the Director fully Stark turned his attention back to Irene. "Will you accept my offer or not? I won't ask for much but its a good deal."
Irene felt a hand on her shoulder, Loki's hand. It was was barely touching her but it was enough for her to acknowledge it. She didn't look at him, but she she shifted her body so she could lean back towards him while facing Stark and the two S.H.I.E.L.D. operatives. She shivered when she felt the tips of his fingers running down to her arm. His voice, soft like velvet, filtered into the air "I do not detect any lies in his words. It is a reasonable offer, perhaps you should accept it?" he suggested to her lightly. She realized that the was dumbly nodding to what he was saying. Because Stark was beaming and the Director looked like he was regretting this already as they took her answer as a yes.
"Excellent! You won't regret it!" Stark stood up. Irene stood up as well when the billionaire strode up to her, his hand held out. "Welcome to Stark Industries." Irene shyly shook his hand, thankful that Coulson was kind enough to show her how to shake a person's hand when there was a agreement between two people. They spoke for awhile longer, going over some plans. Irene felt bad when they had scolded her taking Dr. Laballe's and her Father's credit cards saying that it was a amateur mistake because she could be tracked if she ever used it so they took the liberty to destroy them. They had offered her a new card, it was sleek and black with a chip in it and said until she had her own source of income flowing through and her own bank account she wouldn't need it. So all the funding would be provided from S.H.I.E.L.D. until then. Transportation was also something that they spoke about (well not really Irene, she signed to Coulson when she wanted to get her word out but it was mostly the men) and decided that she would take one of the organization's vehicles with Stark. Her things could be easily transferred, Agent Coulson was kind enough to tell her that Shepard would be brought back to her as well. It was relieving that she wouldn't have to leave him behind.
"So now that we have all this done, what is her new alias?" Fury questioned, surprisingly curious.
"I'm glad you asked!" Stark said excitedly, "I like her name, Irene is a nice name and I am sure she wants to keep it. So I thought just changing her last name was good enough. Hey, you don't mind do you?"
Irene shook her head. Not that I really have much of a choice.
"Awesome, now she's stunning. So a stunning woman needs a very stunning name! Not something boring and dull, so I took the chance of making good use of her name and switched it up to one more to my liking and anyways it makes sense since Pepper had been dubbing her the woman."
"Pepper knew?"
Stark ignored Fury's look of outrage as he continued on, his arm slid around Irene's shoulder as he pulled her closer making the girl mutely squeak in surprise. Irene missed Loki's dark look that was sent at the billionaire. "Anyways as fun as this was, Miss. Adler and I need to go." Stark started to guide her to the door hurriedly. Fury scrambled out of his seat, his lone eye wide as he marched around his desk.
"Irene Adler, Stark!?" Fury cried out in pure disbelief.
Halfway out the door the man looked over his shoulder at the Director, "Cool name right?" He asked proudly, he raised his other hand casually. "Later, Agent!" he called to Coulson. He slammed the door behind them loudly, cutting off anything Fury was yelling at. Though they could still hear his muffling from the other side of the door. Loki had followed them, the tails of his leather jacket almost nearly getting caught in the door but Irene was thankful that he had managed to remain undetected. Irene brushed Stark's arm off of her, the man didn't seem to notice as he took off down the hallway. Irene and Loki shared a look before they rushed to follow him. The God wasn't as pleased as he ought to be though, she could nearly sense his dislike of Stark. Catching up, she walked side by side with the billionaire.
"I'm going to be honest with you, I don't know any sign lingo."
Irene's lips pressed into a grim smile. That's alright, so far not many people know it. Unless they are like Loki and can read for a few hours to learn.
Though she didn't answer him, Stark continued anyways. Just chatting to her idly as they traveled through the rest of S.H.I.E.L.D. headquarters. Her heart sang out when she glanced at the large windows she had passed by when being escorted to the Director's office. The Sun still lighting up the sky. Good riddance that they weren't going to shove her back into that god awful white cell again. They weaved through the crowd of bustling S.H.I.E.L.D. employees and made their way outside, the young woman revered the breeze on her skin as she followed Stark hastily down the steps of the building. There was a car waiting for them. With their approach the driver opened the back door, waiting for them to get in. Stark didn't stop his chattering as he climbed right in and settling himself on the far side. Irene paused for a moment and hesitated, she peered over her shoulder to look at her friend. Loki, is his odd but very appealing Asgardian clothes, stood out easily among the people. He looked out of place, alien, but strikingly ethereal as he met her head-on with his acute verdigris orbs. She watched those harden eyes soften when she looked at him.
"You should go." Irene's eyes widened in alarm, her heart nearly stopping. He wasn't coming with her again? He studied her expression for a moment, "I'll be there soon, I will always find you as long as you have my pendant."
She couldn't help but feel a bit skeptical but she had given him the benefit of the doubt once, she could do it again without question. He did come back to me like he promised. The corner of her lips tilted upwards, feeling better. She was about ready to take a step forward to him when a voice called out her name.
"Hey! Don't just stand there staring at the building, they aren't going to come out and suddenly drag you back so get in the car already! Pepper will be home soon!" Stark was leaning out of the car, his expression telling her to hurry up. Irene's eyes apologized for her. But when she went to send one last look at Loki the Asgardian prince was already long gone and out of sight. Surprised by how his just suddenly disappeared she scurried to the car and climbed in. Stark making room for her as the driver closed the door behind her.
"Do you like take-out? Take-out sounds great."
Irene made a quiet huff of laughter. This man was certainly something, if not very capricious and indecisive.
\oooo/
She was enthralled.
Absolutely, completely, enthralled.
Tony didn't bother to start another conversation or talk about any take-out food since the young woman next to him seemed so engrossed in the everyday lives of average American citizens. It was quite new to see someone watch someone with a new level of intensity it was nearly disturbing. He could swear that he could see her eyes drink up every little thing that could her catch interest. She even watched a man buying and then eating a hot dog at the corner of the street with rabid fascination as they came up to a red light. Irene could be a perfect example of a newborn just looking at everything around it, minus the drool and the toothless smiles. Tony had a feeling that this was going to be much more fun than he originally intended. She looked eager to learn. That was a very promising trait. Briefly he wondered if he could teach her how to hack. Maybe he'll have her break into S.H.I.E.L.D. as a final exam of some sort.
Fury would have a field day. The temptation was very hard to resist.
When they had reached Stark Tower he beckoned the girl to follow him. Grasping her by the elbow gently so he could guide her past the bustling crowds of rushing New Yorkers, a few of them sending him awed glances. It was a good thing he was leading her because she was more focused on the building. She mouthed 'wow' and it made him fill up with instant pride. "Do you like it?" He asked, by the glittering in her eyes he didn't need to question at all but he was satisfied when she briefly nodded her head, her chestnut curls bouncing slightly.
"It's the only one of it's kind, the very first complete clean-energy-powered skyscraper in all Manhattan." Irene looked slightly confused, but nevertheless impressed and nudged him lightly. He took it as a sign to continue, and he gladly did because he had to admit he did like hearing himself talk just a little bit. "Its not done but very soon it will be. It'll be able to sustain its own energy for a year based off my arc reactor technology, I just need to do a few modifications."
Irene rewarded him with a dazzling smile.
They stepped into his lobby. Many of the Stark employees already working paused to greet their boss politely, if not a bit nervously before they went on their way. Some gave of his employees shot a few glances at Irene curiously before scurrying off to do their duties. All except one who was rushing towards them in a slightly wrinkled suit and receding brown hair and a somewhat exasperated look on his middle-aged face.
"You seriously need to stop running off! Pepper already worries enough about you and you just run off to God knows whe-" The man abruptly stopped. His eyes narrowing suspiciously on the young woman next to Tony, who just remembered that he was still holding her arm. "Who's that?"
"Ah." Tony started, automatically starting the introduction process. "Happy, I would like you to meet Irene Adler she's a new intern here at Stark Industries. Irene, I would like you to meet a good friend of mine and my ex-bodyguard Harold Hogan but just call him 'Happy' everyone does."
Happy's face gave the 'are-you-kidding-me?' look. "Irene Adler? Are you serious? Were your parents a fan of Doyle or something?"
Irene looked slightly uncomfortable but she offered her pale hand to him, and Happy shook it politely out of common courtesy, still looking at her skeptically. Leave it to him to never trust strangers easily. That's why he was still hired on as a guard, not for him, but for Pepper.
"Well, that's rude! Never judge a person by their name, and what's wrong with it? Its an awesome name." Tony snapped defensively. Because he was the one who came up with it in the first place! And he didn't appreciate anyone mocking his choices, even if the person knew it or not.
"Sorry, its just unheard off. Who is going to show up next? John Watson or Sherlock Holmes? If so we could have a reenactment of 'A Scandal in Bohemia' sometime and you could be the king and you could be call an idiot by a genius detective?"
"Do you have a snickers?" Tony questioned.
Happy's brows shot up. "Um, no I don't. Why?"
"Because you lack a sense of humor when you're hungry."
Recognition came upon the bodyguard and he let out a sarcastic laugh. "Oh, ha ha. You're so smart with all your pop culture references."
Tony winked playfully. "Anyways, is Pep in the suite?"
"Yeah, she's been waiting for you. She's a bit angry that you didn't come home first like you promised, she thinks you forgot the date night you set up." Happy gave him a look of utter disappointment.
Tony grimaced, "Ah...yeah. Best get upstairs then..." He tugged Irene's arm. "Come on little lady. We need to go before Pep decides to make me sleep on the couch."
Happy followed them to the executive elevator and then parted ways so he could continue his job. Saying farewell to Irene was still rather tense between the two, though Stark could already sense the man lightening up. Irene was very easy on the eyes and she had a very pretty face, he knew Happy long enough to see the small telltales signs of a blush on the man's cheeks. Hell, if he wasn't with Pepper and was staying true to his old Playboy ways he would had tried at a shot of wooing her. Though she wasn't really his type. Now if this Irene was anything like the 'Irene Hawkins' the public adored, which she's not, then maybe he would have thought about it since she would have been more of his type.
The little innocent doe eyes were just to much.
He could already imagine Coulson caving to them when she had begged him for sanctuary. Wonder how bad her domestic life was. Must have been truly something, hell even he had daddy issues. Absentmindedly he was humming along to a song that was playing on the elevator, and because he was the head honcho in these parts all of the elevator songs were always heavy metal. Irene seemed thoughtful on his taste of music, and openly curious. He should play her some AC/DC sometime.
The elevator came to a compete stop at the last and final floor, when the doors opened he stepped out with Irene at his heels.
"Welcome back, and welcome to Stark Tower Miss. Adler." J.A.R.V.I.S. greeted, already using the girl's new name.
"Thanks, where's Pepper?" Tony didn't see his favorite CEO anywhere.
"Miss. Pott's is currently in the other room. She'll be out shortly."
Tony hummed with approval and stepped out to his giant living room. Irene remained by the door, taking in everything around her and nervously playing with a strand of her hair. He wondered if she knew about that nervous quirk of hers'. Probably not since she seemed oblivious. But if she was just going to stand there the whole time he was going to be driven crazy from her lack of normalcy.
"Jesus Christ, sit down and make yourself comfortable! We don't bite you know!" He snapped.
Like a small animal ready to bolt she inched her way over and found herself a perch on one of the couches. She had the posture of a noble lady, her back impossibly straight that it made Tony wince by how uncomfortable it seemed. She made a few hand gestures that were lost on him.
"Sorry, don't know sign language remember?"
She pouted a little and looked down, she seemed frustrated with herself.
I'm sure anyone would feel shitty if they can't really talk.
Tony decided to try and lighten the mood. "Do you want anything to drink? Water? Juice? Apple Martini?"
That seemed to make the girl crack a bit of a smile. She mouthed the word 'water' and expressed her thanks with her eyes. Tony strutted over to the kitchen/dining room area and got a clean glass out of the cabinet. Because they had a system of nothing but filtered water he simply used the tap, with a full glass he went over and handed it over. She took it gratefully and sipped at the refreshing liquid slowly.
"Tony," Pepper's voice called out. Tony turned his head as his CEO swept into the room, her black heels clacking loudly with each purposeful step. A black dress was hugging her slim figure in a way that he could appreciate, something he had bought her from Jones New York Collection design a few months back. She was brushing her reddish bangs away from her face, her red painted lips pulling back into a grin. "There you are! I was wondering where you ran off to, I was getting worried that you stood me up yet aga-"
Her words cut off when she noticed they were not alone. At first she was confused, her nose scrunching up in distaste when she saw that it was a girl. But then recognition and finally realization flashed in her blue eyes as they widened. She turned to him, looking scandalized as if he stole a baby from a hospital.
"TONY!" She screech, her blue eyes flashed dangerously as they narrowed in on him like a Hawk's.
His hands instantly went up in a gesture of surrender. "Wait, before you murder me and dump my body off the Brooklyn Bridge can I at least tell you how pretty you are?" He grimaced when she didn't seem to brighten up at his compliment. But why was she so angry? She should be ecstatic! Going crazy and thanking him for bringing her the greatest the composer since Bach*. And if they were to ask said girl to 'politely' compose them a song that would all be great. Surely his plans didn't always go wrong.
Now that's just lying to myself! Tony shook his head to get rid of the idea.
"Oh! Don't try to pull the flattery card it never works!" Pepper hissed.
Tony sheepishly grinned. "It worked around our first date."
Pepper rolled her eyes as she marched closer, her arms crossed and her nose scrunched up in anger. Though it was her best angry face, Tony delightedly found it secretly adorable. Though he had to confess that sometimes this woman's wrath was insanely scary. He'd throw down a few hundreds to see her chase off Fury with such a scowl.
"That was then but this is now!" She snapped. She looked over to Irene, her face twisting into a apologetic facade. "Sorry you have to watch this, but sometimes its necessary because Tony can be an idiot at times."
"Hey!" He actually felt a little offended that that. "I don't need to stress to you my title of genius."
"Oh, you're a genius alright. But you're equally an idiot who never listens! Not to Fury, not to Agent Coulson, not even me and I am your CEO!" She huffed in irritation. Tony couldn't help himself as he got into her personal space and wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her in closer, he enjoyed how flushed her cheeks turned and gave her that roguish look he knew made her knees weak.
"But you find my rebelliousness attractive." He purred.
Pepper's cheeks darkened with color and she smacked his chest lightly, avoiding his arc reactor barely. She learned form last time that it hurt to hit it head on. She shuffled on her feet a little bit embarrassed. "Tony," she grumbled, jerking her head to the side to indicate to Irene who was watching this whole situation play down. "We have a guest, and this is hardly appropriate." She took a deep calming breath as the flush on her cheeks died down. Tony flinched a little when she pointed a finger suddenly close to his nose. "And you better explain everything to me or else I'll just throw your body out of Stark Tower instead of the Brooklyn Bridge and make it look like a suicide!" Her eyes were icy as she told him this.
Tony gulped and nodded.
And so he told her. Everything from the beginning to the end. They had both sat down, sitting on the couch across from Irene so that they may chat appropriately. And Pepper just listened, she never interrupted him and just sat there with her ankles crossed and her dainty delicate hands on her lap. She did look genuinely surprised about his offered internship to Irene at Stark industries. He told her all about his plan, what her lessons would be in and who he already had in mind to educate her and that he would come up with something that could effectively make Irene able to communicate with those around her easier. Pepper was saddened by Irene's condition, she apologized profusely to the girl even though she did nothing wrong and it just put the poor girl into a little bit of an awkward pinch. Irene just waved her hand at them and just assured them in her own polite little way that she was fine and wasn't offended at all by how easily they just talked about her condition much to Pepper's relief.
And with how much time had passed they had some Chinese take-out in the end. Tony had a hard time breathing from all his laughter when he saw Irene's first attempts at chop sticks. The girl just ended up eating the food with her fingers, not caring if her face was dirtied. It was like watching an over-sized toddler it its first meal by itself. The art of chop sticks would have to take place after he introduced her to heavy metal music. Tony was glad that the girl made good company, she seemed to be a very sweet girl. It made him very curious about what her sister was like. Was she similar or was she the complete opposite. But a confrontation wasn't needed at this time so he just shrugged it off for now.
When it got into the late hours of the day, past eleven, Irene started to nod off. She was sitting on the corner of the couch, her face cleaned from Chinese food and her eyelids were growing heavy with sleep, her chocolate eyes glazed over. He was glad that S.H.I.E.L.D. showed up an hour ago with her things, the violin and her baggage of clothes placed in one of the many guests bedrooms he had. Placing down his glass of fine scotch he got up and placed a hand lightly on her shoulder, she flinched a bit from the contact as her eyes focused on him. He smiled when her lips moved, if she had a voice he was sure that she was mumbling at him.
"Let's get you to bed little lady, I'll give you a time to settle in tomorrow but the days after it would you'd be busy with school and work."
Irene gave him a sleepy smile.
"Good night, Irene it was a pleasure to meet you. I'll see ya tomorrow." Pepper said, smiling charmingly.
Irene waved her hand bashfully.
The corners of Tony's mouth turned upwards. Good, they like each other already.
Tony grasped her hand and helped her to stand, a bit concerned with how icy her hand felt. And she seemed more pale then she did a few hours ago. She probably just needed to sleep. At least he hope so, he would have to see what her sickness was when he had the time.
"Let's go."
He lead her to the guest bedroom that was down a few simple halls. When he opened the door the first thing that greeted them was a dresser to the right in a giant room. The dresser was large and empty but Tony was certain that it would be full of things like perfume, jewelry, hair ties, with alarm clock and just a bunch of junk, mostly things that come out of Irene's pockets at the end of the day, much like Pepper when she was done after a hard day's work. The dresser itself is brown with six drawers, sets of three side by side. Diagonally across from that was a curio cabinet which held little pieces of modern art, the cabinet is a light brown with glass shelves. Next was the bed which sat in the middle of the room with cream colored sheets, and Pepper was kind enough to put an entertainment center which holds a stereo. The room needed to have a bit more of a personal touch but it would suit her needs just fine. She would have a wonderful view over the city of Manhattan.
Irene padded over to her bed where her bag and violin case rested. She ruffled through them and obtained a pair of pajamas and looked over at him tiredly. Sensing that he was no longer needed Tony backed out of the room and reached for the door handle.
"Good night Irene, we'll see you tomorrow so rest up." Tony winked playfully and closed the door.
Now...let's see if he could convince his CEO to work a little 'over time'.
\oooo/
Irene let out a soft sigh as soon as the Billionaire left.
Quickly she stripped out of her day clothes and into her pajamas, shivering. Did Stark always keep the room so cold or was it just her? Spotting a vanity, she went over and sat down and tiredly looked at her reflection. With trembling fingers she ran her fingers over the cold pale flesh of her cheek and traced down to along her jaw and neck. Her stomach clenched uncomfortably a few times and she inwardly groaned when a slight feeling of nausea struck her.
Deep, slow, and even breaths...
Her breath hitched in her throat when she felt something comb through her hair. Her eyes fluttered open to look into the mirror, spotting a reflection beside her own. Two striking green orbs peered back at her accompanied by a mischievous smile.
Loki, how long have you been there? She signed, happy that her friend arrived sooner then she expected.
The God hummed softly as his fingers continued to untangle her hair. "Long enough." He supplied. "Do you like it here so far?"
Irene gave a one shoulder shrug. Tony seems okay...but I really like Pepper. She's Tony's 'CEO' and runs the company and I had this weird food that was traditional from China! Isn't that exciting Loki? Her eyes sparkled merrily at him.
"Sensational." He replied, almost a bit sarcastically but Irene wouldn't let him ruin the rest of the evening by being the usual sourpuss he was.
Will you be staying the night? Irene covered her mouth quickly to hide her yawn, her eyes prickling with tears as she battled her sleepiness. Loki's hand paused, strands of her hair falling between his fingers like water.
"I will be close by if that's what you're asking." Loki's head tilted to the side, eyes narrowed as he studied her closely. Like he was trying to figure her out, Irene stood up gracefully and faced him. She had to tilt her head back pretty far to look him in the eye due to his closeness and his absurd height. Her small hand rested on his arm, her eyes spoke for her as she gazed at him meaningfully. She wondered if he had found a place to sleep or if he was staying in a nearby establishment, somehow she couldn't help but feel a little worried for his well-being during their stay here in New York. It was his suggestion to come here in the first place so maybe he had a plan. Loki raised a single slim brow at her in question.
She shook her head and moved around him, rushing to the bed and sitting down on the left side. Loki watching her antics with amusement, and for a split second her vision became unfocused. She rubbed her eyes for a few seconds and then glanced back at the tall Asgardian who had made his way across the room and was standing by the foot of her bed.
Do you have anywhere to sleep, Loki? She wondered.
Loki shifted slightly, "I do not require as much sleep as a Midgardian, I wouldn't worry so much about me. You look a bit ailed, you had a long day you should rest..." an emotion she couldn't name flashed in his eyes, his face contorting into one of brief scrutiny. He seemed a bit at a lost, but after a few moments of consideration he continued. His voice was much lighter, soothing even, "you don't want to instigate your illness, you have much things to get done tomorrow."
He moved towards the door, "I should leave now, I bid you a good evening." He bowed his head politely, and a sudden struck of fear grasped her.
Why was he leaving again? She didn't want to be alone! Not again in some place to foreign to her. Without thinking she reaching out and grasped onto the leather of his jacket and tugged, stopping his progression to the door. Loki glanced over his shoulder at her, and Irene only tightened her grip. She won't let go, as childish as her fear may be of being alone she had never ever truly been by herself. She had Joey, Shepard, and her garden and her books. But here in this room she only had Stradivarius and well...Loki. She opened her mouth, her lips moving and she could feel her vocal cords trying but failing to work as she tried to ask him to stay. But nothing but air came out. She could see how this situation was making Loki a little uncomfortable, and her eyes watered. She wanted to so badly tell him she was sorry for acting this way, but she just didn't have the voice. So instead she leaned forward and pressed her forehead against his back to convey her apology to him. Loki stiffened under her touch instantly.
\oooo/
He dared not to make a move, not even his fingers twitched with how still he'd become from the lightest and most simplistic touch.
He had seen this type of fear before, mostly in children. That childish fear of being alone, he nearly wanted to sneer down at her in disgust for the unbecoming behavior of an adult. Her age was considered adulthood on Midgard was it not? But nevertheless, a young woman like herself shouldn't behave like a toddler clinging onto a toy or a parent for comfort. Yet he couldn't bring himself to say the harsh words that was currently storming around in his mind. Never had he been placed in such an incommodious situation in his life, no one had ever come to seek comfort from him of all people. Though vaguely he recalled his childhood in the golden halls of the Palace that seemed like a lifetime ago, that he would sit with Thor on some steps or a garden and listen to all his woes like any decent brother would. Thor rarely showed him the same courtesy and therefore Loki usually found himself seeking the comfort of his mother.
On one hand this mortal, she grated his nerves. And on another he felt both pitying and sympathetic.
And Loki found himself leaning more towards the later. Slowly he pried the young woman's fingers from his coat and sat himself down slowly on the bed, on the near corner of it daring not to get comfortable. He still held onto the girl's hands, his body angled so that way he could face her still without awkwardly twisting his back and with a feather light touch he ran a thumb along the smooth skin of her palm. These hands could shatter her bones if I held them to tight. They were so small and dainty, a musician's fingers in some sense. He still felt rather uneasy with how technically forward she was with him, did she even realize it at times? Embraces, the kiss on the forehead, among other things of the like was something no maiden would do. Well...not an Aesir maiden or even an Elvish one.
Loki had felt a little guilt when he considered just taking the Tesseract and leaving. He would have broken his oath, he was a liar yes, but he had intended to make sure that he would grant her the safely she required before his departure. He couldn't take her with him out of the realm of Midgard, she would not survive the unknown and he knew he wouldn't be able to protect her within all hours of the day. The image of her withering in fear beneath him in her white cell flashed in his mind. He had, at first, thought that she finally came to her senses and came to the conclusion that she had made a horrible mistake when she decided to come with him. And the sight left a bitter and cold feeling within him, but when he had recalled his mistake of forgetting to take down the illusion he was relieved to see that she still, in some way, cared and was happy to see him. It was funny how he could think so much clearly when he was no where near the Tesseract. No longer able to hear its dark and sweet whispers. When the time came, he was curious to see how she would react from his impending departure. Just the thought of it made him lamentable.
He gave out a defeated sigh when the mortal used his position to her advantage. Pressing her side firmly against his and resting her head on the bicep of his arm (since she was so short) while allowing him to remain in custody of her hands.
"You're a very stubborn creature." Loki muttered, he was staring at the large windows that overlooked the bright lighted city beyond. He couldn't look at her, feeling a bit ill at ease with her proximity. This was the closest that Loki had ever been with a woman who he was trying not to seduce. He had bedded many maidens, usually a one night tryst in the middle of the night or in a dark secluded hallway if they were both feeling a bit adventurous but never had any of them wanted to...cuddle. He had accepted the fact most of them bedded him either to get with Thor or simply because he was a Prince and desired higher status within the court. So having attention from the fairer sex that wasn't lustful or spiteful was rather new. All of Irene's actions screamed innocence, and friendly.
Irene's only response was so snuggle impossibly closer to him.
"You should really rest, if it frightens you to be alone I will stay until you fall asleep. I won't make any promises about being here until morning, its rather unseemly for a man to be in a woman's bedroom without courting her." He was rambling now, he couldn't really help it as his cheeks grew a little warmer. "I'll come by with some medicine, yes, you have to drink it all and I won't take no for an answer. I'm certain you already know that if you refuse to listen I'm still very much incline to use force if needed, though for both our sake I suggest just going through with it. I expect you to remain in bed as well, you're looking rather ghastly and I rather not risk my ally throwing up or getting sick on our enemies as amusing as that sounds." A Cheshire grin formed on his face as he imagined the little scenario. Preferably he wouldn't mind so much if she got sick on Stark.
"Now, let's get you to be-"
The sound of deep breathing reached his ears. Facing the mortal at his side he found her there sleeping. On his arm without a care in the world.
She fell asleep on me...
That was relatively quick. But studying her features now, he saw nothing but serenity. No worries, or fear, or sadness. A perfect expression of peace. It made her look so much younger, childlike in every way imaginable and it didn't help with how her body was shaped. Like a stick with nearly almost nonexistent curves and chest. If she was healthy she would had made a fine dancer if she learned. His lips turned upwards, he was rather enticed with her state of tranquility. With skillful grace he was able to move her, she was pretty much weightless and easy to handle as he tucked her into her new bed. Not once did she stir.
When he was satisfied with everything he checked her over once more to be sure she was comfortable, and with the subtle grace of a feline he made a quick departure. Deciding that now was the perfect time to hunt for the correct herbs for her medicine. It would be a long time before she awakens, he could get plenty of things done during the night.
And then perhaps retire afterwards with a nap.
Phew! Done! Thank god.
I felt this chapter dragging on and on and on as I wrote it. I hardly had the time and I was like...sitting there doing my classwork and thinking to myself: Damn it, I really gotta work and update soon. Or : Shit did I do my class assignments due this week.
The life of a College student, I rather be burdened with glorious purpose but unfortunately one cannot simply get a stick of destiny and try to take over the Earth. As fun as that sounds, makes me wish that I was a villain. Is is just me or do villains have such an interesting and more fun lifestyle? Well when it comes to being the Joker or Loki because those two just have a blast and you can totally tell. Anyways I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. Some Loki and Irene fluff in the end. I'm kinda worried when I do this stuff cause I don't really wanna rush the relationship and oooooooh Loki is having some struggles. I'm sure all of us would be very much dangerously attracted to a cosmic cube of power if we weren't careful.
He is still honorable...in some ways xD
So...Irene Adler! Lol, Stark you silly dog you! I was going to name her something else until my friend convinced me to name her otherwise that way I could throw as many Sherlock jokes in there as I liked because we (my friend and I) found it amusing considering RDJ played Sherlock Holmes (loved it) and it would be funny if he would bestow her the name of 'the woman' which Happy totally makes a awesome joke for. Even Fury seemed shocked and wanted to protest against her name but Tony is just to stubborn and I love that!
So I will keep this short, because it's some ungodly hour in the morning when I should really be in bed but I really wanted to finish this up and post it for you guys because lets face it...I love my readers. I really do because you guys are just that awesome.
So with much love, review and tell me your thoughts!
-Shizu