Chapter 17: Trust

We reached the end of the corridor without a word passing between us, save for the occasional hiss or groan. My muscles screamed in agony, my legs shaking by the time we made it to the door.

I stared at the solid brown barrier before hesitantly reaching for the rusty doorknob. I twisted it and pushed the door in, wincing when it made a noise. I quickly carried Loki inside and thanked the Allfather I had cleaned up earlier. I gently laid him down on my bed, careful not to cause him any more distress. My aching body sighed in relief when Loki's weight was off me.

Loki clenched his teeth and hissed, as I shut and locked the door. Before I could slump against the wall in exhaustion, I went to Loki's side to check on his condition, while trying not to pass out.

A sheen of sweat covered his forehead and his body was shaking uncontrollably, plastering his hair to his face. It could be an infection. I thought, going through all my knowledge of medicine and healing. I don't have anything on me to fight an infection, but I have pain pills. I dashed to the bathroom, almost tripping over my feet, and wrenched open my medicine cabinet. Rows of colored bottles and herbs lined the shelves and I cursed myself for not thinking of restocking my cabinet after my first visit to Loki's cell. You knew an infection could be a result of his punishment. My subconscious sneered. I shook my head. Shut up. I don't have time to argue with you. I spat in my head. And for once, my subconscious was silent.

"Where is it? Where is it?" I whispered frantically, rummaging through my various pills and cough syrups. I finally spotted the light blue bottle after a moment and snatched it up, running back into the room. I raced to Loki's side and unscrewed the top off the bottle, blowing hair out of my face as I did so. I kneeled down next to his side and took a deep breath, gently touching his arm.

"Loki, I know you're in pain, even though I tried to help, but I have pain pills that will temporarily relieve you of this discomfort until I can get the proper tools to mend your ribs." I paused to see his reaction. He opened his eyes to stare at me, his fist tightly clenching the bedsheet. I swallowed, and then continued.

"I know this may be a lot to ask considering the circumstances, but I need you to sit up and take these pills. Unless you want to continue suffering." I said softly, showing him the pills. His gaze didn't move from my face, and I could read the silent question in his eyes.

"You can trust me. I won't hurt you." I said seriously, tracing my fingertips over his arm. He stiffened and pulled his arm away abruptly.

"I trust no one." He spat sharply, baring his teeth.

"Am I not worthy of your trust after all I've done?" I asked, licking my lips.

"You think that be 'rescuing' me, I would think you more than just a mere servant girl?" He said harshly, causing me to flinch. I bit back tears and blinked rapidly.

"Usually when someone risks their life for yours, you repay them by giving them your trust." I replied, on the verge of tears. Be strong Althaia. Don't let him see you cry. I thought, turning my head away. He laughed, a dry raspy sound coming from his throat.

"You're just like all the others. Weak and pathetic. How could I ever give my trust to someone like that?" He said.

I couldn't take it anymore. At those words I snapped. I stood up and slammed the pills down on my night stand.

"I'm not like the others Loki. As crazy as it sounds I actually care about you. Those other servants could care less about you. They would turn you in for a pretty penny. Unlike them, I'm trying to help you and I'm trying to fix everything that's broken. I still see good in you, when others don't. I haven't asked you for anything in return and you say I've not yet earned your trust!?" I yelled, ranting in anger. I began walking to the door.

I'll be back some time, and in the meantime I'll leave it up to you to decide your fate. Try not to die when I'm gone." I paused. "Or do you not even trust yourself?" I added. I didn't wait to hear his answer because my hand was already on the doorknob.

I was about to open the door, when a wave of dizziness hit me. I clenched my eyes, and grabbed my cranium in pain. I stumbled back, my vision going blurry, black spots dancing in my vision. I swayed to the side, the world tilting, before everything went dark.

Author's Note: Hey guys! I know. I know. I haven't posted in forever and I must apologize. Life has been busy. I hope you guys like this chapter, and I must say sorry for making Loki such a jerk. It had to be done. Thanks to all who reviewed, favorite, and followed. Please R and R, it gives me motivation! Love you all! Bumblewolf out!