Chapter 8: Puppy Dog Eyes Don't Faze Me
I didn't know what I expected to see when I turned around, but it certainly wasn't kindness. I didn't think I could be any more wrong that day, but I was. Seeing a bulky man like Thor, look at me pleadingly with concern, was enough to make my heart melt.
Stay strong Althaia. I thought, clenching my fist tightly. Looks can be deceiving. I stared at him, somewhat shakily, my arm starting to throb painfully. Thor, probably not realizing he was crushing my bones, squeezed my forearm tighter, making me wince.
"Dine with me." He whispered with bright, expectant eyes. I blinked taken aback. What kind of girl did he think I was? One who dined with every man she served? My stomach growled at me, demanding to be filled with food. Thor smiled, diminishing all my fears before. "You are hungry, are you not?" in truth, I was willing to eat just about anything at that point. But eating breakfast with the prince, almost king of Asgard, was not on my list of things to do. Can I even trust him? What if he tries something? They said Thor was a man of honor, but behind closed doors, who knew what he actually did. My fear and doubts returned, making me want to bolt. But I held my place, as memories of Tae Kwon Do lessons filled my head. Make one move prince, and I swear I'll break your perfect nose. I thought confidently.
Why does he care if I'm hungry anyway? Did he pity me? Most likely. Was he genuinely concerned? Possibly. Or was he just lonely? Maybe. It was hard to imagine a prince, surrounded by friends and family, and lavished with gifts and women could feel lonely. If anyone should feel lonely it should be… I stopped mid thought letting it trail off. I wonder how he's holding up. I thought, remembering the tortured prisoner I had healed. At least, I hope I healed him. Worry plagued me. I sighed, anticipating my next visit there. I thought these things so quickly; Thor hadn't noticed I wasn't paying attention to him.
"Please," he pleaded, gazing at me with puppy dog eyes. His offer was tempting, the still fresh smell of the breakfast not helping with my decision. Maybe just for a minute- My watch rang again, no doubt the other person the end was irritated. I glanced down at my wrist, and checked the time, before looking back up at Thor. "If you will excuse me prince, I have to be going now." I tugged on my arm hoping it would have some effect. He stared into my eyes for another minute, making me uncomfortable, before releasing my arm.
The blood flowed back into it painfully, as I rubbed the bruise I knew was there.
"Another time then," he said, gently grabbing my hand, and pressing his lips against them. "Fair, maiden," he added, after he let go of my hand. My skin tingled at the feeling of his warm lips against it, but I shook off the sensation, and bowed swiftly, before I quickly opened the door.
"Until we meet again," Thor yelled after me, as I shut his door, and all but ran down the vacant hallways.
Author's Note:
Hey guys! How ya been! Summer started and I finally had time to type this out. I might not update as often as I would like, but I'll try as hard as I can. Don't lose hope in me. I hope this chapter was worth the wait, and please read and review. Also thanks to all who reviewed. You guys don't know how much I appreciate them. Bumblewolf out! P.s don't ask about the title, I couldn't come up with anything.