Sorry it's been so long! I've had a lot do recently, with work, visiting my now alma mater, and doing a musical. I should be able to update more often now, I promise! I'll stop rambling so you can enjoy the story :)
It was a gorgeous day in Asgard. The sun shone out brightly over the kingdom. The autumn treetops made the forests look like seas of fire. Through the woods galloped two fine geldings, each with a fine rider on his back. One was a beautiful chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail, a wide blaze across his face, and four white stockings. His rider had long, flowing, golden hair and kept turning to shout at her companion. He sat astride a true black gelding, laughing and calling out to the girl. The chestnut was swift and agile, his rider sure of herself and her mount. The black tried to keep up but was no match for the quick little chestnut. He only caught up when they stopped at a small lake.
"I've never met a better rider, Sigyn," Loki said, "You put many of the best horsemen in Asgard to shame."
"I should hope so. It helps that Knut is the finest horse ever to be tamed."
"I'm not too sure about that. Stig is a fine animal."
"He is… but Knut's better."
They turned their horses out to graze and get some water. Meanwhile, Loki and Sigyn took a walk through the surrounding woods, just listening to the birds and the sound of nature before winter set in. Loki had to try and hide his smile when Sigyn looped her arm through his; he wasn't sure he succeeded. It was a pleasant stroll, neither one speaking, simply enjoying each other's company. Finally, after several hours, they returned to the clearing by the lake. He looked over to her, saw a smile on her face. It had been a long while since she kissed his cheek in the garden, and they had not spoken of it since. Therefore, before they returned home, Loki stepped forward and took both of her hands in his, taking in a deep breath.
"Sigyn, I have something to tell you."
"Yes? What is it?"
"We have known each other for many years, ever since we were very young," he said softly, "From the moment we met in the gardens so long ago, I have loved you. I love you more than I have ever loved anyone. I would give anything, do anything, just so you can be happy. Even if I were completely alone save for you, with nothing else to my name, I would be the happiest man in the entire universe. I just… I love you, Sigyn."
Tears blurred his vision, but he could still the glistening trails down her cheeks. Her lip trembled as she pulled in hiccupping breaths.
"Please say something. Anything."
She choked out, "Oh, Loki… I love you, too," and wrapped her arms around his neck. He had to bend over for her to do it, and when he straightened up, he lifted her right off the ground, arms around her waist. Nothing could ever make him happier than this moment, except perhaps their wedding day. They remained in each other's arms for several minutes, during most of which Sigyn cried with joy. Loki spent that time pressing light kisses over her hair and temple. When they finally disengaged, Sigyn wiped her face, saying, "We should head back. We've been gone a long while."
"Don't suppose you'll take it easy on me going back?"
"Never."
They mounted up, and Knut was off like a shot, tearing through the trees with Stig on his tail. The two horses wove through the trees, their riders calling to each other with taunts and endearments. It was just sunset as they returned to the stables. They giggled as Loki set to plucking small twigs leaves from Sigyn's hair and got his hands swatted at by her. A few of the grooms gave them funny looks, but they didn't notice.
"I love you," Loki whispered, grinning.
"I love you, too," she responded softly.