Author's Note: It has been a very long time and I am so very sorry. I though my sister (who consequently is now on [Ember Sorenson]) was writing the next chapter. Just kidding! So here we go, let me know what you think and sorry for the wait!

Chapter 16

The world seemed to fade to a narrow tunnel as Niki's gaze went from her retreating sister to the god rushing towards her. A small voice inside told her to be realistic and not to entertain the idea of this wonderful, pained, and recovering man loving her. But her little sister had done her work too well; the little spark of hope was kindling the long forgotten fuel in Niki's heart. Still, there was no way really. Why would someone like him be interested in someone like her?

She was jolted out of her dwelling when Loki grabbed her, making her jump a bit in surprise. Her gaze snapped up to his and was immediately held there. After a pause where she could almost physically feel his eyes searching hers he said in a whisper, "You really do."

This woke her from her daze and for some reason put her on the defensive. "Well of course I do," she snapped. "Why wouldn't I? I have no reason to think I would stand out in anyway especially compared to the beauties that I'm sure dwell on Asgard. Besides, I've read enough stories and myths to know that I am nothing special."

"If you believe those stories or any of the rest of that drivel you just spouted, than you are more foolish than I thought," he bit back before straightening and taking a calming breath. This was not how this conversation should continue. If he was going to bare his heart to this incredible young woman then he was going to do it properly and not in anger. With a sigh he gently guided her to the stump he had occupied earlier. "Niki, I want you to listen to me and listen well."

"'m not a child," she mumbled but sat down and was quiet and attentive after.

"Sometimes I wonder," he muttered back and answered her slowly growing grin with one of his own. "I am trying to be serious if it's all the same to you."

Stifling a giggle Niki made as if to lock her lips and throw away the key.

"Thank you." Rolling his eyes at her nod the deity continued, "And hear me out before you interrupt. Earlier I gave you the many reasons why you are so very special and I would appreciate it if you would not disregard my words so much. No interrupting," he warned when the mortal woman opened her mouth. She slowly closed it and waited for him to continue. "I know that's not what you meant but since you clearly ignored them it's the only conclusion I can draw. Niki Sorenson, you must understand how special you truly are." Crouching down in front of her, the pale man took her hands and, holding them between his own, continued with his explanation.

"You clearly have no idea how amazingly simple yet powerful all your reactions to me have been. You have not reacted in fear or anger which is in itself astounding but neither have you broke down my door and forced yourself and your opinions on me. Instead you waited, patiently and calmly. That is more than I could ever have hoped for. And then you have the gall to tell me that you are not special enough?"

Niki had the decency to look ashamed but she still didn't understand. Isn't what she'd done just basic human kindness? Wouldn't anyone else do what she did? Or was she really as naïve as Ember accused her of being sometimes?

"My dear Niki," the Norse god continued reaching up with one hand to cup her cheek. "You are indeed very special and not the least to me. You've done so much not only for me but for your sister. What you've done is amazing; brining up your little sister after a terrible tragedy, putting her good before your own, and then taking a complete stranger for no other reason than that he happened to appear in your house. After all this selfless action, do something selfish and believe me when I tell you you are special. Special enough for me, certainly special enough for Asgard."

Stunned, Niki sat there, her lower lip trembling slightly. Her mind was blank except for that last phrase that kept repeating. Special enough for me… She made several attempts to say something but nothing came out making Loki chuckle then lean up and capture her lips in a soft, chaste kiss.