Chapter 18, it won't be long until I reach chapter 20! I'm like so excited for no reason it's just so awesome! I can't tell you how much of a pleasure it's been writing for you guys. I mean after the last chapter I was so worried that I did horrible but you were all so nice with your reviews that I felt like crying tears of joy that could rival Major Armstrong at that point! Things are much smoother and more relaxed now as we slowly make it to the summer months. Even got a season pass to six flags to that would be totally fun, release some stress by going on a few roller coasters and awesome rides.

Though this story wouldn't exist if it wasn't for you guys so I wanted to say thanks to:

ForeverKneelingForLoki: Thank you for your understanding, I do my best to get my chapters out on a timely manner. It's been hard but getting out a new chapter is worth it, just so I can see the happy reactions, as for Irene…I'm so glad you find it so adorable. I was listening and watching some Disney films and it just came as a slight inspiration. I wanted her and Loki to become closer, and work on her relationship with Pepper. I find it amusing that Tony and Pepper go along their daily business and not realizing there is a God of Mischief hiding out in the same room as them. Got to love magic!

AkeraWriterOfTheNight: I'm so happy you liked the Disney idea, to be honest I never been to any of the Disney theme parks but I totally want to go to Disney world someday. It's a top ten on my bucket list. That I need to do!

Nix-LokiFan: Thank you so much for your review, I'm so happy you liked the song and the dance! I couldn't help myself, and Irene is a musical soul kind of like myself. It wouldn't surprise me if she could hear Tchaikovsky's sleeping beauty waltz within the Disney song "Once upon a Dream."

CommanderOfMurders: I'm so sorry I made you have the munchies for popcorn, I was kind of wanting popcorn myself but I didn't have any lol. But thank you for your review!

Moonsword17: Thank you as always for your review, my friend. I'm always happy to see them, and would like to pleasantly think that you would love this chapter as well!

The Kid: Well, Irene will keep her work safe from prying eyes. To her, her composition for Loki means everything to her. She isn't as careless as one may assume she is. After all, Loki keeps himself invisible from prying eyes. She wouldn't bust him. Second Waltz of the Mischief Prince is just a title and Avengers hasn't happened yet. For all Tony and Pep knows it's just another thing of music she's making and they wouldn't really tie it to the Norse God of Mischief. Now if this was set during or after the Avengers that would surely send the warning bells ringing! But thank you for your review! Any support makes me happy :)

Chapter 18: Flutter

"Miss. Adler! Please, slow down before you give me a leg cramp!" Godfrey Stewart, her new bodyguard and tour guide in place of Happy, exclaimed. He pushed against the crowd of the citizens of New York City, for some reason just happened to be traveling in the opposite direction all at once. Trying desperately to keep his eyes locked on the girl a few feet away clad in a white sundress, on her head of auburn curls sat a delicate looking straw hat. He could have breathed out a sigh of relief when she stopped and looked at him with her honey doe eyes, for once listening! He was just introduced to her two days ago, his boss being the Tony Stark and impossible to say no to, he had told him that he had a very important job for him to do. At first he expected something much more, but the last thing on his mind was babysitting the man's new intern. It was the first time anyone has really seen this Irene Adler. News of her spread throughout the levels of the tower, any who were learning under Stark himself had to be worth something. To say he was a bit disappointed was a bit of an understatement. Not that he didn't like her, or anything like that. He just expected something…more. Irene, to him, was a petite woman with a pair of arched eyebrows looked down on sweeping eyelashes. Her delicate ears framed a button nose. A set of dazzling, angel-white teeth gleamed as she grinned, looking sincerely apologetic. It was a pleasure to see her flowing, chocolate hair that shimmered in the sun's light. Her enticing, constellation-amber eyes gazed at him over her puffy, heart shaped lips. At first he was stunned by her looks in that breath suddenly caught in your throat kind of way, but stumped by her lack of speech. She didn't seem to have much of a background either, not anything that Stark or Miss. Potts cared to share.

With her sudden recent appearance, she was the new favorite topic of Stark Tower. Rumors quietly murmured behind closed doors. Some making some scandalous suggestions that she may be having a fling with the boss man himself. But just getting to observe her for two days he knew immediately that the relationship between Irene and Stark was completely platonic. Nevertheless it didn't stop the chatter amongst the workers.

Godfrey found her to be a mystery. No talk of family, no prodigious school records, no nothing. And he prided himself for being rather close to Happy. They worked a long time together, and though he was in Stark's personal little circle of fun, the man never said a peep about her except that most of her education was done up in Stark's penthouse or in some of the Labs.

Now you ware probably a bit curious about the look of our dear Godfrey. A stout, middle-aged man, who wore a similar black suit to Happy, as was a standard uniform for being a part of Stark's security force. A classy man with a well shaven face, salt and peppered hair slicked back, with two bright hazel eyes. A scar was there on the left side of his face, barely marring his upper lip at settled near his cheek. An injury he got from a man who tried to drunkenly get at Stark due to a bar fight that broke out.

"Stop running off like that, if I lost you in this crowd I don't think I'd be able to find you that easily." He scowled lightly, stepping up to her side. "And I don't like to entertain the thought of what Stark would do to me."

"I'm sorry, I just can't contain myself when I'm out of the tower. This city is amazing!" The SGD replied as she hastily typed her response. Her faithful hound, whose leash she had around her wrist, barked as if it was agreeing. Tail wagging at a fast pace.

"Still," Godfrey mumbled, his aging face softening just slightly. "I rather not lose you in this crowd, as 'amazing' as this city looks. It's never safe even if it's out in the public."

"I understand, I'll try my best not to run off." She promised.

He flinched when she absently looped her arm with his and dragged him along. And not long after it was him who was leading her through the clusters of people. The young woman took her time to admire the tall buildings of Manhattan. Admittedly it would take a while to get over the charm of the city, many were dazzled by its sights and attractions. It took him months to snap out of that Big Apple stupor after moving there from just simply being from a small town most of his life.

"Do you really like the city that much?" He wondered aloud.

Irene serenely bobbed her head.

He continued to guide her through the bustling city. Sometimes giving a brief history about obvious buildings that stood out and that were iconic for the city that never sleeps such as the Empire State or the Chrysler building. Irene was so easily charmed, only able to show her appreciation and glee with various facial expressions.

"This is the Museum of Natural History. They have many exhibits for things like Anthropology and Astrophysics among other things. I been in there a few times. It's an interesting place if you like that sort of stuff." Godfrey enlightened, shrugging his shoulders.

And interested she was, her eyes went from the proud statue of a man mounted on a horse to the actual building itself. Her stare was intense, her gaze flittering to the people who wandered in and out of its doors as if casually observing them. She had such a strange habit of people watching…to an extreme level. Young, old, rich, and poor. She observed them all, as if she had never witnessed the modern day American life. Or she reacted to him in such strange ways. Like their first outing…

-Two Days Ago-

"Miss. Adler! It's rude to stare, why are you staring?" He chastised with obvious disapproval.

The young woman was staring unblinkingly as a Hobo just across the street was pleading and begging for some spare coin from the folks who passed him, wearing clothing that became dirty rags over time, his hair grimy from lack of care and face unshaven, he was skinny from hunger, blue eyes beseeching for any sort of compassion. And in her tiny hands she held her clutch purse close to her chest. Her lips were parted, as she stared forward as if in a trance. Then a frown marred her pretty face.

"Miss. Adler?" He pressed.

But she ignored him. She just continued to watch the helpless man, her eyes taking in the sight of a homeless being ignored. Her once happy face became dispirited, disturbed, and sorrowful. It made him feel uncomfortable…who looked upon something people see every day with such heartbreak?

His revelry was utterly destroyed when she started to cross the street carelessly. Godfrey's hand shot out grasping the back of her blouse he yanked her back onto the sidewalk, eyes wide. "Jesus Christ! Are you freaking insane!?" He snapped. Irene's brows furrowed, looking shocked and confused. "Don't just cross the street blindly! People get hit by cars and it doesn't end happily! Didn't your parents teach you to look both ways before crossing a street!?"

She shrank back from his wrath. Lost. God what was wrong with this woman? She was at least in her early twenties, late teens perhaps, everyone fucking knows to look both ways before crossing the street. It was carelessness that got you killed. A damn intern at Stark Towers should be smarter than that. Swear to any Gods that ever exist, she was like a child! Damn Stark for tricking him into babysitting! He forced himself to take a deep, calming breath.

He settled down and spoke in a softer tone, not wishing to startle her more than she seemed to be at this moment. "Please, if you wish to cross then let us go to a crosswalk. It's safer that way, but still look both ways when you cross…not all drivers stop."

Thankfully she agreed with the swift understanding nod of her head, eyes downcast with shame.

So with the utmost vigilance he let his fingers lightly brush her elbow, guiding her to the nearest crosswalk. She followed him obediently now. Much more attentive of the vehicles on the street. As soon as they were able to cross she broke away from him, concentrated once more on the homeless man. Godfrey followed her like a personal shadow, close enough to watch the events unfold as Irene got herself noticed by the man dressed in rags. The tired Hobo blinked at her, his tongue dry tongue trying to wet his cracked lips in vain. And with a rough broken voice, he begged quietly "Dae ye hae hain chaynge?" The man's dim gray eyes glittered with shame, his voice thick with a foreign accent. Stark's young, strange, intern went to her knees. Catching some attention of the locals walking by, some even stopping to see what she was doing at all. Her face had become the living embodiment of compassion. Her brown eyes were softened, innocent and clearly trying to understand.

"Miss. Adler…" Godfrey murmured, warily looking at the people whose attention they attracted.

Everything is going to be just fine. Her body language assured.

Without fear, or disgust the young girl rested her pale clean hand on the hobo's weathered cheek. Her thumb absently running along his cheekbone comfortingly. And like magic the homeless man seemed to become putty in her hands, looking too tired to continue his shameful begging. She lowered her hand and gestured for Godfrey to come closer, he did so warily and blinked in surprised when some cash was shoved into his hand.

Irene pulled out her SGD and typed "Can you get him food? He's hungry, he doesn't have the energy to do so himself."

"But, I…" His words died down as her brown eyes beseeched him. Ugh…stupid big doe eyes…"Alright!" He snapped not wanting her to continue looking at him like that any longer. She seemed pleased with his decision and turned to the stunned homeless man, asking what preference he wanted for a meal. Her benevolence had touched the withered man's heart, eyes shining with unshed tears of gratefulness. Saying that he would eat just about anything and that he was only indebted to her great kindness, Godfrey stormed away to the nearest restaurant not wishing to be gone too long. He fidgeted when he was in line, cursing everything. The lineup, the slow cashier, the cooks, Stark, Irene, every Gods' name he knew of.

When he had finally secured some food he returned. Thankful that she had remained where she was, now just sitting on the dirty sidewalk with the homeless man she had introduced as Conall. The man ate his meal with vigor. And even when they gave him the food they remained much to his dismay. Conall chatting idly with the young intern, who wished to know more about him, huddled at his side looking like kindred spirits. Godfrey stood nearby, smoking a cigarette or two.

The homeless man, Conall, was once a soldier in the 3rd battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland with a group called the Black Watch. "Thare ah wis, based at camp dogwood that wis located atween Fallujah 'n' Karbala that me 'n' th' wee jimmies cried th' "triangle o' death" we wur under kept insurgent attack fae mortars 'n' rockets. Mony guid men died." He was shot in a skirmish, and sent home with an honorary discharge from the service. He came to America to find a better life, he married foolishly to a haughty woman and he lost everything with the divorce.

Godfrey flicked the cigarette bud away, hardly understanding what the heck the guy was talking about.

"Miss. Adler, it's getting late. We should return to the tower." He advised, running a hand through his hair.

She nodded her head, and looped her arm around Conall's. She struggled a little but got him onto his feet, Godfrey scoffed "You'd got to say goodbye to Mr. Conall, that involves us walking away and him staying."

The girl rolled her eyes.

"Ye hae dane enough fur me, sweetheart. Ta, fur yer kindess."

Conall placed his calloused hand soothingly over the young girl's, but she would not have no for an answer.

It sufficed to say she had brought a stray home literally. An argument with Stark ensued, and she had won giving the hardened veteran a job and temporary place to live in Stark Towers on the condition that he'd learn how to lessen the accent so that everyone could understand him. The Scotsman expressed his gratitude, vowing to protect the 'wee lass' once he was back in shape and that he was at her service for a long time. Needless to say, he was a slightly welcomed addition to the security force of Stark Industries.

He should ask Stark for a raise.

-Present Day-

She turned to face the other side of the street, eyeing the treelines and pointed.

"Central Park. Famous place to visit for tourists, you see it a lot in movies." He stated. Irene bobbed her head in appreciation and motioned him to follow her. She led him to a crosswalk, remembering his reprimanding from last time and waited patiently for the 'walk' sign to come on. They scurried across the street and onto the stoned pathways that led further in. She pulled out her SGD the further they walked.

"There are many trees, it's as if we are out in the woods instead of the city."

"This park was made years ago, it never hurts to have a little green here and there." He dug into his jacket pocket and secured his box of cigarettes. Snatching one, he placed the bud in his mouth and got his matches to light up the end. He took a much needed drag out of it and sighed. "Would you like to rest? There are benches we can go to since we been walking for a few hours." He rubbed his lower back playfully with his freehand. "If not for you, than for me because let's face it Miss. Adler. Old men need to rest every now and then, I'm not as young as I used to be."

"Did we walk too far?" She asked worriedly, pulling on the leash to make Shepard stop.

"Naaaaah, just a small break and possibly head out back to the Tower. Pepper wants you back in time for dinner."

Irene had settled for sitting underneath a great white oak tree. Her hands running through the fur of her companion, the dog obediently lying next to his mistress, his head on her lap and whining with contentment. He chose to lean against the massive trunk of the tree, taking puffs of his cigarette.

"So tell me, where are you from exactly?" he asked.

She stopped scratching a spot behind Shepard's ear, making the creature huff.

"I came from a small town, in Canada." She answered, her eyes never meeting his.

"Oh?" Godfrey hummed, "Canadian? Nice people up there, what made you move to the States?"

"Education mostly, a new place to explore." She was starting to fiddle with her SGD.

"Don't you have good Universities up there? I heard tuition was cheaper, it would cost just a normal American an arm and a leg to pay for a term of schooling." He pried, seemingly keeping a casual approach.

"Mr. Stark offered me internship. With the opportunities he presented me, I couldn't refuse." She shot back. It was hard to tell if she was covering anything up thanks to that electronic gadget of hers'. He studied her slightly hunched over frame, her posture slightly defensive.

"I suppose…" he agreed, taking one last puff of his cigarette before dropping the bud and crushing it under his heel. "It's hard to say no to Tony Stark, can't really fault ya for that. Most just wonder why he had selected a new intern, you've drawn many curious eyes Miss. Adler. Some out of envy or jealousy, being taught by Stark himself says that you are something special."

Her nose scrunched up and her lips puckered as if she smelled something unpleasant. "I am no different from the next person, Godfrey. I am simply trying to fit into the world, and find my place."

"Modesty." He grumbled "A rare trait among those who prefer to boast about their skills, or claim to personally work with Stark."

"Why is that so?" She questioned him, muddled by this not so new information.

Godfrey scoffed lightly, running his hand through his hair. Taking in the serene view of the park around them. "Hell, it's always been like that. If it were anyone else they would be howling to the moon that they had been selected by one of the most powerful men on Earth for tutelage. Many would die for an internship or even a strike at apprenticeship. Ever since that whole 'I am Iron Man' incident I've heard there have been many wishing to be selected for internship at Stark Industries, it's either us or Oscorp."

"Oscorp?" The girl questioned.

Godfrey blinked. "Seriously?" he asked in disbelief, "you know of Stark Industries but you never head or Oscorp? Norman Osborn was the founder and current CEO, I heard the poor bastard is on his deathbed as we speak. He has a son named Harry, he'd most likely be the one inheriting the business."

Irene's eyes lowered once more, looking saddened by the news "Poor Mr. Osborn…I pray that fate be kind to him and his son. But no…I've never heard of them. I did not get out much…" she played with the hem of her dress for a moment with thoughtful consideration. And added shyly, "I was …sick…for a long time so mostly my time was dedicated to honing my skills but I started getting better. So, I came here and I met Mr. Stark through a mutual friend and then he presented internship to me. So here I am."

Oh, that was more information than he had hoped for. He tried covering up his sudden interest, failing just a little. "Sick? I never heard from Happy or Miss. Potts that you were sick."

Her cheeks flared up, turning a light shade of pink. "Happy doesn't really know…and Pepper wouldn't tell anyone unless she knew I was okay with it, same with Tony. YOU wouldn't tell anyone right?" Her brown eyes bore into him, that soulful gaze penetrating to his very core. It made him shudder and shake his head, raising his hands up in defeat. "Nope, lips are sealed! I won't peep a word!" he stuttered.

Irene became more relaxed and leaned against the tree, returning her attention to her dog.

A few minutes of peace managed to pass by between them. Sometimes watching a few of the locals walking with their families and their pets. One look at the clock told him it was past the lunch hour and they have yet to eaten anything, he was feeling a bit peckish himself.

"Um…do you want a hot dog? I saw a stand not far from here, if you can wait I can bring us some food back."

She looked at him and gave him her consent, thinking it was a wonderful idea.

"Alright, don't go anywhere. I'll be back in just a moment." He gave her that 'I'm-trusting-you' stare before sauntering off, hands in his pockets.

\oooo/

Irene chuckled when Godfrey was no longer in her line of sight.

Oh, how she missed the woods. This place, Central Park, stirred up memories of the woods that surrounded her old home. If was beautiful, and deserving of the title for being in the center of one of the world's largest cities. If she could just forget and pretend not to see the towering skyscrapers that hung over the treeline she could just simply forget that she was in Manhattan and back in the country side. Shepard whined, as if he sensed her sudden yearning. His light brown eyes looked up at her, and she could not resist the adorableness that resided there. She cooed lovingly at her companion, earning a few happy wags from the beast.

A shadow passed in her peripheral vision, her head turned to regard whoever had come to join her.

She was not surprised to see the form of the Mischief Prince. Loki had told her this morning that he may be back earlier than expected. And shockingly he was. Her brows furrowed together as she took in his appearance. He looked paler than usual, eyes sunken in with prominent dark bags beneath them as if he had no rest. His hair, always slicked back and well taken care of was a bit disheveled. Even his prized Asgardian armor seemed a bit dull, lacking its usual luster.

The Norse God plopped down next to her with a tired groan.

Loki? She signed, a bit concerned.

He ran a hand down his ragged face. "Not now…just a few moments of silence, please." He murmured. His head rested against the bark of the tree, eyes fluttering closed to block out the rest of the world.

She nibbled on her lower lip thoughtfully. She can't really sign him if he didn't look at her, and he asked for quietness so her SGD was out of the question.

I wonder what happened…

She didn't want to see Loki like this. Her good mood from today soured a bit. This wasn't Loki. No, the Loki she knew was always wearing that smug look on his face. Or playing pranks and causing mischief wherever he was. He laughed, deep and melodic from the gut that made her feel like she was walking on air.

So, how can she cheer him up?

She wrung her hands nervously. Wracking her brain for any sort of inspiration. Would failing to prank him work? Probably not, it just might make him grumpier. She didn't have the heart to prank an innocent person, she had no reason to do so…

She silently smacked her forehead a few times, Think Irene! Think! What would Loki like…?

Shepard huffed, eyes looking nearly judgmental. Irene scowled at him. Like you're helping! She accused, glowering.

She peeked over at the Aesir. Grateful that he wasn't fully aware of her inner turmoil. Crestfallen, shoulders slumped in defeat, she let out her own sigh. Her eyes roamed over his lithe figure.

I guess…I will show him my support! She decided.

Her button nose scrunched up and eyes flashed with purpose. Her gaze narrowed in on her target she shuffled as quietly as possible towards the gloomy God. Shepard, not pleased at all by the sudden loss of warmth, shuffled after her, possibly causing a comedic scene for any bystanders until she was pressed up against the God's side with Shepard pressed up against hers. His immediate reaction was to tense, muscles coiled and ready to spring into action when he wasn't expecting something. She just simply planted her head on his upper bicep, too short to reach his shoulder.

"What in the Nine Realms are you doing?" He grumbled, realizing that he was in no imminent danger. Loki turned his head, observing her through half-lidded eyes. Flecks of curiosity and irritation lingered in those green orbs.

Keeping you company, and wishing to make you better. She replied proudly. You are my friend. Therefore, as your friend it's my job to keep you company and make you feel better.

All she received was a blank look.

As the seconds ticked by, a blush started to work its way up her neck to her ears. She licked her lips timidly. I…is this not the right thing to do? She panicked. What if she was making him uncomfortable!? UGH! Stupid, stupid, stupid! Pepper and Tony had explained to her that some people are uncomfortable being so close to others and may get the wrong idea! (Whatever the 'wrong idea' was she was unsure) But, what if he was one of those people!? She had to fix this!

With shaky hands she tried her best to sign, bumbling like a mute idiot she was.

Loki, I…I'm so sorry if I made you uncomfortable! I…ugh I was just trying to make you feel better. I like it when you're happy! Um, I don't know how to make you feel better…I thought pranks but pranks might not work and I just wanted to see your smile. I like your smile! So…please smile? She trailed off lamely, wincing.

She swallowed. She couldn't tell what kind of emotions were playing in his eyes. His face was still set as stone. Nothing gave him away. It had her twiddling anxiously. Had she just ruined the few frail threads of friendship she had with him? Perhaps it was because she was still technically in his 'personal space'. Disheartened, she expressed her most sincere apology with her eyes. Hoping it would get across to him in meaning as she worked on shuffling away. His hand unexpectedly shot out, his thin and elegant fingers wrapping around her small hand gently.

"I…I would prefer if you stayed here…by my side." He sounded unsure. Not very much like the Loki she knew, there was something vulnerable in his voice. He was prideful, and Loki just declaring such a thing out loud touched her. All her anxieties and fears melted away from his slightly cool touch. Her eyes flicked down to their entwined hands. Her thumb absently ran along his skin.

He's always feels slightly cold…She noted. Not noticing the intense look she was receiving.

A small smile teased the corner of her lips. She had never found his cold touch to be uncomfortable, she wondered if it was common among his kind back on Asgard. Her mind tended to wander when he told her the stories of the glorious Realm Eternal, a city filled with magic and towers of gold and splendor that put the Legends of Eldorado to shame. Blissfully she sighed at the memory when they would spend long nights in her room chatting. To think he was so hostile at first, the change from when she had first met her injured friend to the one she knew today was a large leap. Sometimes he would still insult her with the term 'mortal' if she got on his nerves enough.

Her shoulders shook in silent laughter, her head resting once more on his arm. The fabric of his armor cool against her cheek.

"What do you find so humorous?" he asked, his tone was much lighter now. Feathery, as his breath stirred her hair as he spoke.

Us. She signed, using one hand even though it was slower to form the words. Thinking how things have changed since we've met. I remember how angry you looked when I came back to you in the forest with my horse and wagon. You would have put up a fight if you weren't so injured at the time.

Hints of laughter escaped him. "Just a little, yes." He acknowledged, "Was I really that horrible?"

I recall you throwing as many insults at me as possible. Or playing tricks on me, now that I know better that you can do magic. Even with your injuries you just kept insisting that you could do everything yourself. It was rather sad really, but I must applaud you for effort.

Both his brows shot up, stunned. "Oh? You are saying that all my efforts to dissuade you were in vain? Most would have stomped off in anger or leave with tears and snot running down their faces." Loki made it sound like it was the common case.

She nudged him gently with her shoulder. It'll take much more than that to scare me off. But I'm glad that didn't happen, I like being your friend. Being with you brings me joy and happiness, I hope my presence offers you the same. I value my time with you Loki, I wouldn't exchange it for anything. Even if you were still rather grumpy back then. She turned her hand so she could grasp his, squeezing it fondly.

It became silent once more. A comforting silence. A one that could be shared between two companions. And Shepard, of course, was enjoying their company just as much. The hound's eyes were closed in light slumber, nose twitching adorably. Their moment was not meant to last as Godfrey returned a hotdog in eat hand, a very small smile on his face.

He held up the two hotdogs, displaying them. "There, a favorite lunch in the city. Nothing beats a Manhattan hotdog."

Irene felt Loki shrinking away as the mortal approached, Godfrey's left hand outstretched as he went to pass her food to her. She gripped his hand tightly, the God froze in place, green eyes flashing warily as Irene reached out with her other hand and grabbed the offered food appreciatively.

She took a single bite, relishing in the wondrous flavor of Manhattan 'fast food'.

Godfrey sat before her in an Indian cross-legged style. Enjoying his food just as much and having one sided idle conversation.

"I came here often with Pop, we'd usually go play some games in some of the big fields. Usually just a small game of catch, the old man isn't as young as he used to be…"

Irene listened attentively. Now and then running her finger along Loki's cool skin. It felt relaxing, and nearly secretive. In some way, Loki was her secret. A dear secret she would never let go of. Her features soften as she glanced over at her guarded friend. He sat there rigid, ready to flee if he must, but he still maintained a hold on her. His face was set hard, his strong looking jaw set as he examined Godfrey with un-hidden disgust.

In all honesty, she was surprised that he was still letting her hold his hand. His touches never lasted as long, usually brief as if it never happened. Like being touched a ghost. Yet he endured her constant small hugs, and displays of affection. That fact made her feel giddy and a little bolder with her actions. And being close to Loki…

I like it…She decided, taking another bite of her hotdog. Eyes shimmering with joy.

\oooo/

Warm…

Her hand was warm, he thought. So tiny and insignificant, it was a little frightening how small she seemed now that he gave her more attention as the days flittered by. Inquisitively he gave it a small squeeze, testing the bones that constructed her limb. Brittle to the point if he used his full strength her hand would be crushed to nothing.

How do they manage to survive being so fragile? Pathetic! His mind spat.

Just seconds after she returned his actions and squeezed his hand back. He barely felt a thing though. If it wasn't for the warmth she radiated he would have hardly noticed at all. His antagonistic thoughts melted away. He ran his tongue along his chapped lower lip slowly. Much to his frustration, this…Midgardian woman was growing on him. And her words made it worse. He could hardly classify her among her own kind. She was just simply Irene. A beacon in a hellish world. Unique.

She would have made a wonderful Asgardian. With qualities such as the fidelity of Sigyn, the caring heart of Frigga, and the healing touch of Eir, surpassing Bragi with her skill in the musical arts, but would never be a warrior such as Sif whose heart fiercely lusted for battle and glory for Irene was to soft and gentle in nature. Alas, she was mortal. In some ways he was glad. She would never come to know his short reign as King, a monster hidden under a pretty illusion.

'You bring me joy and happiness' She said.

A bizarre thing to say to the God of Lies. Her eyes met his. Flaming amber, like warm honey on a summer's day. His lips parted slightly. The prince silence as he watched her watch him. Fascinating…he never noticed the tiny rings of pure gold before.

Did anyone have those kind of eyes in Asgard…?

He could hardly recall. All his troubles melted away the longer he stared. He was no longer furious with Foster who had set back his plans by almost nearly a week. He felt no bitterness. No pain.

Just contentment.

Foster's eyes were brown as well. Though her eyes held nothing to catch his attention, he noted. He scoffed silently at his sudden comparison of the two women and banished those thoughts entirely.

He rested his head back against the tree. Ignoring how the bark dug slightly into the back on his skull. He watched the young mortal woman eat, listening whatever nonsense came out of this 'Godfrey's' mouth. He couldn't care less about the man or anyone else. He remained fixated on her and the hand that stubbornly refused to release him. He sighed. It wasn't like he was trying to escape her grasp either.

"It's getting a bit late, do you want to head back to the tower?" Godfrey spoke, stuffing the rest of his 'hotdog' in his mouth.

Loki sneered and wrinkled his nose at him in disgust.

Irene nodded her head, her brown curls bouncing with the movement as she copied her 'guard' and shoving the rest of the food into her mouth in a very unladylike way. Loki rolled his eyes, though the way the food made her cheeks puff out reminded him of those furry little creatures that horded nuts that he's seen around parks and wooded areas. Squirrels, he recalled. He snapped out of his stupor when his hand was being yanked, his gaze flashed up to see Irene pulled at his hand. Tugging, silently asking for him to stand as well as she got up onto her feet. Shepard letting out a low pitch whine as he stood up onto his paws, shaking off some grass that clung to his fur. With subtle grace he got onto his feet, towering over the small woman. She smiled discreetly, her fingers brushing intimately before intertwining their fingers, palm flat against palm.

He felt something uncomfortable in his chest.

A flutter.

Small. Fleeting. But it felt like time had slowed down just for that one moment. A precious smile that he had seen numerous times. Each one all the more brighter than the last. But most importantly.

It was all for him.

She smiled at others, yes. She smiled at Potts or Stark when she was happy. Polite or shy smiles for those she meets or acquainted herself with. But she did not smile at them like she did for him. Blazing, burning as bright as a distant star. Her eyes tender and her cheeks tinted red. He hated it. And at the same time he wished to see such a look more often. The Prince wanted more. He kept pace, side by side with the woman who clouded his thoughts. Frightened, angered, a bit thrilled, when she squeezed his hand every so often. Flashed him looks. All of them purely innocent. Naïve.

She's become a liability.

He couldn't afford that. It could change everything, she could undo all his work if she tried. Break an already broken man with just sweet words and a pretty grin. Loki kept close as they remerged back into the city, his face set neutrally as possible. Irene pressed into his side, her arm brushing up against his as they walked.

Had he really stooped so low? As low as Thor? Was he no better? Was he under some enchantment that was secretly forced upon him? The annoying flutter returned at her proximity.

It remained so until they returned to the tower, passing through the lobby and the usual security check points. Irene was forced to let go of his hand so he could simply walk around the security check point. A guard checked her over and glanced at a little badge she carried around before allowing her entry. Godfrey just went straight through, waving at a few of his associates.

Loki prowled a little closer to hear some snippets of what the man was saying to Irene as soon as they both cleared.

"Well, it was a nice day today. Hoped you enjoyed it, though I'm afraid I am unavailable tomorrow and the next few days afterwards. If you like I'll schedule something with Stark and get another guide for you?"

"It's alright I'll talk to Tony myself. Thank you for walking with me today, I am sure you have better things to do then to babysit me." Irene's SGD said.

"You're not bad at all, kid. I don't mind it, so long as you keep close and stop running off." Godfrey's lips pulled up into a humorous smirk, his hands shoved into his pockets.

"I'll try not to next time."

They said their goodbyes, Godfrey heading towards office security and Irene heading for the executive elevator that would lead her up to the penthouse. Her brown eyes caught onto the God, beckoning him to follow.

And follow he did.

Together, with Shepard wedged in-between them, they stood as the elevator doors closed. He stared ahead. Not wishing to look at the woman who made him nearly second guess himself. He felt light pressure on his forearm. Tilting his head down Loki observed the mortal with a raised brow.

"What?" he drawled tiredly.

You never told me what had you down. You look tired, as if you don't sleep well at night. She tilted her head. Her hair falling over her shoulder like silky water. And for a moment he was transfixed on the auburn locks.

"Just a few troubling nights, Foster had gotten an equation horribly wrong. With her mistake she sets the plans for the device back nearly a week." Loki rubbed the back of his neck, feeling a bit tired now that she had pointed it out. His dreams consisted of him usually falling off the Bifrost…each dream slightly different each time from where he lets go of the spear to Thor forcefully throwing him off. He was having a hard time distinguishing what was memory from dream.

Irene looked at him sympathetically. I…I'm sorry to hear that. You must really miss it…

"Miss what?" He inquired softly.

Asgard. She answered, she suddenly shifted her body. One foot to the other, a bit apprehensively.

He opened his mouth to speak but the elevator dinged and the doors opened. Irene stepped out, unhooking and setting her hound free. And happily the little beast trotted off. She stared after him with uncontained affection and adoration. Like how a mother would look at her child. Though that thought was a bit disconcerting. They really didn't keep 'pets' on Asgard.

Idly he clasped his hands behind his back, his spin straightening and his shoulders squared out of habit. The tails of his armor swooshed around his legs as he took a few steps forward. Wishing to continue their conversation.

"I would go back to Asgard, for my mother. Try and…make amends with her."

To Hel with Odin and Thor, the Warriors three, and any other who looked down upon him like he was below them! Let them charge him with whatever crime they wish, he was doing what he thought was right as the King of Asgard. If eliminating a race of abominations was the answer then he does not regret his actions at all. How many times has he fallen on the sword for them? Bled for them? Gotten Thor and his friends out of idiotic situations and gain no credit at all? One too many times.

Did you have a fall out with her? Brown eyes, filled with such innocent curiosity.

"Something like that…" He murmured.

He was glad that she pressed him no further. She brushed a few strands of hair away from her heart shaped face. She froze and abruptly a Cheshire grin broke onto her face.

Come with me.

She latched onto his arm, dragging him without a moment's thought. Uncaring of just who she was pushing around. And he let her. She led him back to her quarters. With all her excitement she shoved him right through the open door. He spun around, eyes a bit wide as she closed the door with a very loud 'click'. She seemed awfully pleased with herself.

Now…just be a good God and relax.

"Be a good what?" He sputtered.

Her hands clasped onto his shoulders, making him walk backwards. He didn't think about just firmly planting his feet onto the ground to the point she couldn't push him any longer because he was too astounded by her actions. She backed him up until the back of his legs collided with something hard. And with a shove, she made him fall back.

"Oof!"

His eyes were wide as he now looked upon the white ceiling, processing what had just happened.

He, the God of Mischief and Lies, was pushed by a small little Midgardian woman onto what he realized was a bed. And not just any bed. Her bed. Worst part, he let her do it. Hastily he propped himself up with his arms. His youthful face morphed into a hilarious look of shock.

"Irene!" He snapped, "What in the Nine Realms are you doing?"

The young woman in questioned had her hands on her hips, observing him minutely before gracing him with an answer he desired.

Simple, you're going to sleep here.

All thought processed stopped.

Did she just…?

No. No, no, no, no, no, and no. She couldn't possibly be suggesting that. Never in a thousand years! Wasn't her mind to innocent and too pure? And she was insinuating what he thought she was then he questioned just what exactly were these human fools teaching her while he was gone. But nothing her posture seemed suggestive. No lewd looks or lustful eyes. For the sake of his sanity he needed to make sure.

"Sleep?" He breathed, "In your chambers?"

If this wasn't Irene he wouldn't have hesitated. He would have grinned devilishly, make a lecherous remark. Stick to his mischievous ways that he was known for with wooing a woman of the court. He was by no means a gentle lover to those with experiences. With young maidens he was tender, not wishing to frighten them off for they were delicate. And they were Asgardian women.

No, she was human. A child of Midgard. Admittedly a friend. She could be nothing more. He could and would not allow it. He did not love her, no. He respected her, cherished her pure and untainted spirit. Unique among the humans for just simply being. If there was another human woman, he wouldn't have cared. Would have bedded, and broken her without any remorse if he wasn't repulsed by their race in the first place. But never Irene. No…he would never bring himself to harm someone who had put all her time and effort into him.

To rest. You look like you need it. You look like you aged a bit, you're turning into an old man. She quipped lightly. She leaned over, her fingers brushed the dark bags under his eyes. He supressed a shiver that was trying to work its way down his spine as her touch ghosted over his cheek and along his jaw.

"I don't need as much rest as you mortals do." He replied dryly.

Her shoulders shook, indicating laughter. She left him on her bed, shuffling over to a chair that held her violin case. And with great practiced eased she extracted Stradivarius from its case. Bow in hand, she pointed to the pillows and glared at him. Ordering him to listen for once.

Commanding…

He sneered and crawled back until his head was on the pillow. He clasped his hands together, resting them on his abdomen. "Well, I'm hear though I doubt whatever you have in mind will work." He jested. He peered over and saw her gazing out the window. She did not reply. She just raised Stradivarius up and tucked her chin on the chinrest and drew her bow upon the strings.

Music filtered the room. Soothing tranquility, like a lullaby. Like the songs Frigga would sing to him as a child after a nightmare or when he felt restless that particular night.

As seconds ticked by. His eyelids started to feel a bit heavier. And his mind, drowsy. He mumbled under his breath, words incoherent as sleep claimed him.

So deep a sleep that not even Odin, Thor, or Laufey could enter his dreams.

\oooo/

She didn't know how long she played. She continued until her fingers ached from pressing down on the strings. She didn't care, she would play anything for Loki for as long as possible. But finishing the last note of her song she lowered both violin and bow down with a sigh. Tony and Pepper had not bothered her this evening. She didn't think they even returned home. But she didn't care at this moment.

She turned to look at the form stretched out on her bed.

Loki had made himself comfortable, an arm tucked under the pillow as he slept on his side. His face smoothed out without any wrinkles or lines from when he scowls. He looked much younger. Defenseless and meek, except she knew that if he desired to he could rip her head clean off her shoulders. She snorted at the thought and placed Stradivarius back in its case. She moved as silently as she could so she would not rouse the slumbering God.

Climbing onto the unoccupied side of the bed she laid herself down. Her head resting on the pillows as she stifled a yawn. The form next to her shifted and she froze. Did I wake him? She held her breath as the God just simply turned around. Still sleeping much to her relief but was now facing her instead of her looking at his back. She blinked. Subconscious reaction to someone getting into bed? She wondered. She didn't really understand really, but seeing Loki there was nice…

Her chest tightened a little when the God let out a breathy sigh.

She liked this Loki. Fully at peace. Her eyes traced the outline of his features of what she could make out in the semi-darkness. The lights of the city providing a bit more sight.

Irene's brows pinched together as she felt something in her stomach. Fluttering. Was she hungry? Not really…

It felt like she ate a horde of butterflies.

Strange…

And her throat felt a bit more dry than usual. She licked her lips and closed her eyes. Her hand reaching out until she got what she sought for and clasped her fingers around the God's hand. Holding it. She thought it would help but it only made the tiny flutters worse. She held on regardless.

They'll be gone tomorrow. She assured herself.

Sleep took a while to claim her that night. She dreamed of magic and devious smiles.

She never noticed the pair of emerald eyes watching her.

Yes! Chapter completed! God this one took forever but thank you so much for waiting guys. I really enjoyed this one. I was hoping that this was light and I decided to have a little fluff in there since you have all been so patient with this story.

Anyways Scottish guy! Conall! Scottish for strong wolf, everything he said about his career as a soldier was indeed true. Was a real battalion, those events did happen. Those places were real. But Irene was so kind. I was like, 'damn she's to fucking adorable' as I wrote. So no Tony or Pepper in this chapter! And you all must be wondering about Godfrey, well he's not a marvel character just one I just came up with. He's her bodyguard for when she's outside the tower because let's face it. Happy is Pepper's bodyguard and well there are plenty who work for Tony so why not! Back to the Conall, he has a very heavy Scottish accent...very heavy so if you didn't understand here is what he said:

"There I was, based at camp Dogwood that was located between Fallujah and Karbala that me and my boy called the "Triangle of Death." we were under sustained insurgent attack from mortars and rockets. Many good men died."

"You have done enough for me, sweetheart. Thank you, for your kindess."

I finished this chapter up *looks at clock* 3:25am! And I still feel awesome. Though I should go to bed because the sun will be popping up in a hour or so...and there is no way I can turn off the sun for a few hours even if I wished to. But that would cause a doomsday or something.

Anyways I hope you all enjoyed the chapter. I did my best to try and make it...cute? Lol some bonding time with Loki and the hints of the blossoming romance.

So tell me what you guys things! Love, review, and be awesome!

-Shizu