This is a long one, guys, so enjoy! Feel free to skip this or read this later as it won't pertain to the story. It will explain some things in it though, with my own words. I hope you like it so far. I've been trying my best to have Loki's character be the Loki we know, along with his changes throughout the story. Also from the Loki series in mind, which I may or may not reference. We shall see. ;) I hope I got his likeness down. If it is boring, do let me know, I am making this up as I go along. BUT, I do have the plot in mind. I'm not completely running blind. Although, these new characters are mainly what took up the majority of my time. Trying to give these characters their own personalities and traits. They just came into existence and I am giving them hell… Their backstories are brutal… So their behavior will be explained as we delve deeper. Most questions will be answered, just keep reading. If I keep going. I do enjoy this story myself, so I plan on continuing. Life gets in the way, you know. I took my time on this chapter. I didn't want to post willy-nilly. I do apologize for the late update but you'll probably already be reading this. It could be years by now that someone discovers this story or there are people who have been waiting. Either way I hope you're not disappointed, until next time My Lovelies.
Annaleise's POV
She finished washing up and quickly got herself dressed. She walked out of her room in determination. Holding the object of her intense questions. Carrying it to the living room.
She walked down to see the closet open and the light on in the hallway, looked inside, and saw its shelves drained of the blankets and pillows she had on them.
Where were they?
She continued to the living room. Being very careful, making sure she doesn't trip, trying to avoid dropping her small cargo.
Once she reached the living room, she discovered that all the couches were covered with the blankets and pillows in question. Some bodies were laying on them. Three of the spots were empty, the cover pulled back and the pillow jangled up. The other 2 spots are occupied by a person sleeping soundly.
Who are these people?! Are there more? How many were there?!
She guessed five possible people, for there were only five spots that she could see.
Why were they here?
She couldn't get her answers just standing there. So she quickly made her way to the kitchen. Hearing the voices of unfamiliar guests she couldn't even remember inviting in.
She walked in to see Loki with a hand over his mouth, looking like he was trying to figure out how to work the stove. A woman in black clothes was standing rather close to him as she tried to point and explain each button to him and how it works. Loki reaches his hand to try to turn the burner he wanted on. He was always quick to learn or understand things. He never looked like he wanted to cook before, but the look of determination on his face said otherwise. He smiled as it turned on giving him the result he was looking for.
He looked over to the young blonde with flowers in her hair. Her hair was long. It looked like shimmering gold with luscious waves throughout as it flowed down her back. Her eyes were a pretty emerald green. And her smile was bright and warm…
and for some reason to her….
very annoying…
He smiled softly and bowed his head slightly in thanks to her.
For some reason…
The entire scene irked her….
Maybe because she doesn't know who that woman is….
Or she was standing too close to him…
When did they get close?
Didn't they just meet?
She noticed the other people in the kitchen. A young man that looked like a fish lost in a book and another woman that looked somewhat familiar, wearing a matching black cloak and outfits. The woman's eyes looked like she couldn't see but she was looking in her direction. Seeming to be aware of her presence as she smiled widely to her.
She stood from the chair she was sitting in at the table, and placed her arm across her heart, the other behind her back, and bowed her head with her body deeply to her. Then she raised her head to make sure her voice was clear, her body still lowered as she spoke.
"My lady, it's very nice to know you are awake and well."
Loki and the others noticed her presence. The fish boy from the table looked up from his book and stood to bow quickly then sat back down returning to his book on Norse Mythology.
The woman standing next to Loki turned to face her. Her face looked nervous and anxious as she placed her arms on her chest and bowed her entire body. She jumped as she realized she bumped into Loki with her rear in her sudden movement. Her face was bright red as she covered her mouth with her hands looking up at Loki. He only stared at Anna, his gaze looking lost but intrigued. Looking back and forth from her eyes and her cupped hands. He was completely unfazed by the woman next to him.
He must be noticing the concern on her face as he was silent and looked at her with worry.
The young blonde, who was completely melting on the countertop from her embarrassment, sighed in relief as he didn't seem to care… She held a slight trace of disappointment on her face.
Which made Annaleise very angry for some reason.
The woman who spoke, her voice was calm and sincere, Anna then heard it again. This time, it was almost like it was right in her ears coming from her head. The woman's voice never leaves her mouth.
'You have nothing to fear, we mean you no harm. Your kindness goes beyond words, thank you for wishing to help set us free. We do not wish to betray you, you have already done more for us than our old leader ever has. Anything you wish, my lady, it shall be done. Just ask.'
Anna's mouth hung open as she watched this woman's lips never move… Who is she?! How can she hear her in her head? Is she a mutant!? Or worse…. another X-patient?!
The woman looked puzzled, then she had a face of deep concentration. Anna felt like someone wasn't just looking at her. That all of her was being watched, like her brain was being dug through. Then the woman spoke out with the voice for all to hear.
"You don't remember…"
Loki's face changed from worry to confusion. As he walked away from the now cooking food in the pan, the girl next to him springs in front to watch it. Looking back and forth from the food and him. The fish boy occasionally looks up from his book, adjusting his glasses to fidget in his concentration.
Loki reached Anna, staring down at her with a concerning gaze. His hand touching her head, he closed his eyes, seeming to be taking a look himself. He opened his eyes once again to look down at her with sincerity.
"You really don't remember?"
"... No…"
He asked, seeming to already know the answer, but he must have really wanted a confirmation.
The strange mind reading woman
spoke once more with her real voice.
"It's even blank in her head, a gap of memory completely erased."
"I see that…"
His voice was deep with worry.
"She's been panicking all morning."
Anna peeked around Loki to stare daggers at the mindreader.
Thanks for the wonderful input…
'Sarcasm is a lot harder to detect in your head, but it's obvious you're not happy with my invasion of your privacy … My apologies, should I keep some things more quiet, my lady.'
"Don't go poking around without permission, don't speak for me, and we are cool."
Annaleise said out loud.
Her voice held a harsh tone, when really she was trying her best to keep it from quivering. She was confused, anxious, annoyed, frustrated, aggravated… she was just… completely overwhelmed… it was too much…
She came to an understanding she was standing in front of an X-patient. They all were. They must be people she has met. Or else, why were they in her home?
She was told never to let anyone in this house that she didn't know or trust… This house was her parents' most precious thing… They loved this house… so did she… They would have never wanted it to get invaded or for it to be used to house her enemies… She felt like she failed them…
She's never met another X-patient. Now she has to meet five of them. When she can't even remember if she ever knew them before. They were already in her house. Sleeping under her roof, reading her books, and cooking her food. They don't look familiar at all. They were complete strangers, and they are supposed to be the most dangerous kind. The ones she's supposed to avoid…
She was supposed to be afraid of them, but they were nothing to be afraid of… She couldn't remember why they were here, or how they met before this.
Why were they bowing to her?
Why does the mind reader call her, 'my Lady'?
Why can't she remember?
The woman bowed her head, and spoke with sincerity with a voice that didnt leave her mouth.
'I, Monica Maverick, swear I will not dig any further. Unfortunately I can't help but hear your inner voice. That voice pretty much narrates everything, everyone's inner lives are always narrated to me. Unless I'm in a crowded room, and your inner voice is quieter than the rest. I have yet to find an off switch. I can hear everyone all the time…'
Monica then rose her body and starred in the area Loki was, holding a face of confusion. Seeming to be completely at a loss that he is even there. She even squinted her eyes, seeming to confuse Anna even more. Why would a blind woman need to squint to see better?… when she can't see…. Can she?
If she is still reading minds then…
Then she definitely heard all those questions. Monica, with a hand on her heart, held her gaze towards Anna. As she stared through her with her white eyes, she held a face of concern. She looked like she wanted to help give her answers. She was probably just conflicted on if she should or not.
It annoyed Anna that her thoughts weren't just her own anymore. Loki can even take a peak if he wanted to, but at least he's less invasive than this woman. He respected that she wanted her thoughts to be her own.
But now she can't blame her… since she can't help but hear people… but still…
Loki looked back and forth between them. Probably not quite understanding how they were just staring at each other without context, at least to him there wasn't any. He then looked intensely down in Anna's hands to see the fingertip she had so many questions for. She cupped her hands holding it in a tissue. He looked concerned as he asked.
"What is that?"
"I was hoping you could tell me…"
Disturbed, he took a closer look at it, and then back at her with concern. He obviously knew what it was.
"Where did you get it from?"
"Apparently… I swallowed it…"
She couldn't look at Loki, she held her gaze to the finger. She didn't want to know his expression, she didn't want to even be in this situation.
She probably looked how she felt, horrible… in a daze hardly believing what was even happening.
Having to explain something she knew nothing about. Having to ask like this was normal to ask about. Having to not go into a full blown panic attack and while having this gnawing feeling of wanting to tear everything apart…
How does she cope with all of this at once?!
What's normal about this?!?
Who's finger is it?!
Why is this happening!?!
Why are there people in her home!?
How could she fail THEM!?
"Are you okay?"
Monica asked. Anna didn't realize the tears forming in her eyes till the woman spoke. Anna's vision was blurry, but she didn't notice until they started to fall and roll down her cheeks that they were present.
"This… this isn't your finger… is it?..."
He had a full set of fingers, she highly doubted it was his finger anyway. He looked more disgusted by it than thankful to have it returned. His fingers were slender… this one was thick… but tiny… it looked like a big man's pinkie. Way bigger than Loki.
"No! Wait, you thought this was mine?!"
"As far as I remember it was just you and me… I only remember running away with Zeus after our… talk… I dont know how I got back at all...Or what happened last night..."
She kept her face low to hide her red cheeks, she knew because her face is hot.
He can never know HOW she thought it was originally his, and all the ways she imagined it to come to her possession in here throat. She hoped he didnt see it when he took a peek in her head. Her imagination got graphic, as graphic as someone inexperienced could get though... She had to try to guess how she had it, since she had no memory of how she got it. Its definitely not a normal thing you just... find.
His face looked stunned as he must have finally realized how her morning was going. Then his face turned soft and empathetic. His hand graced her cheek, the action causing her to flinch. Surprised by his gentle caress, wiping the tears that fell from her eyes. Making her heart to jump and race.
"Are you sure you want to know?"
He asked, his concerns for her plain as day on his face. There's definitely a lot she feels like she missed, so it feels wrong to never know.
She wanted to know what was happening.
What was with the finger? Whose finger was it?
She wanted to know these people in her house.
This is the first anyone has been in her house that she didn't know.
Who were they?
How are they already making themselves at home?
Now another thing raged on in her head.
She can't get over the way Loki wouldn't stop looking at her. As soon as he realized she was in the room, nothing could tear his vision away from her. His face held concern, worry and tenderness, with a pure genuine look of longing in his gaze. It's impossible to mistake it. She was the only thing he cared about since she walked into the kitchen…
If they didn't do anything last night, she would be genuinely surprised.
Why else would he be looking at her like that?
Why would his touches be so soft and gentle, if he didn't hold something for her?
Why would he be standing so close to her and making her heart pound, if he didn't do something to her last night?
Was there something between them?
How could there be?
She only remembered being angry with him…
She's not the kind of girl to get mad and suddenly give her virginity to her roommate. Despite his handsome face, witty charm, and intelligence. She could listen to his smooth voice for hours talking about anything he wanted or any adventures he has had. He was a God so he probably had plenty… But to sleep with him after not even remembering their first kiss… seemed shameful for her to think of… How could she forget her first anything? They were the most precious things she wanted to experience with someone... She didn't remember anything, and didn't really know how she felt about him yet. He deserved someone who treasured their moments together and meant to do it with only love in mind…
but she can't already love him….
How can she???
They hardly know each other. They only know the dangerous parts of each other… and both accept the other's flaws… The rest has yet to be told. She can't already love him, there has to be more... it cant be that easy... Especially after everything he has done, anyone else would call him a monster. Just like she did...
Although, despite his actions… Despite all the death at his hand… The way he looks at her… doesn't look like one coming from a monster…
He liked his personal space at one time, but now he's breaking all his boundaries just to be next to her.
She remembered him as a man with a quick fuze and a high guard. Easy to push people away rather than accept their presence. Now he was fine with these strangers standing so close to him and didn't care how he was almost practically face to face with her twice this morning.
He is trusting…being open to other people…
The one person she has met with the most defenses she has ever seen on another person, other than herself…
He has no barriers now… He's being himself…
Or he's not being himself… ?
Why is he acting like all of this was normal and this is what she wanted?
How could he be this tender to her after everything she said?
Why is he acting so strangely?
Why isn't he being his former self?
Why isn't he calm, composed, and collected?
Instead he was completely and utterly infatuated with her presence.
He has changed a lot since they met, he's more kind, more caring, and more thoughtful… It's kind of spooky… It doesn't sound like Loki, the God of mischief… more like… someone else…
And she didn't know how to feel about it…
Her face felt hot, it was red because she knew all her thoughts were probably on display for Monica. She decided not to look in her direction, held her gaze to the floor to calm her embarrassment. To pretend that she didn't just have a mental debate on her man problems. If there even was a problem, was the real question. Hoping that Loki would keep respecting to stay out of her head. Hopefully he wasn't like Monica, he never showed signs he was listening, so maybe she was safe.
No matter how bad it could be… she needed to know… Something doesn't sit right with her to have a gap in her life that holds such valuable information…
Once she knew she was calm, she looked up to meet her gaze with Loki. Looking worried, clueless, and all while waiting patiently for a response. Anna took a breath and gave a voice to the silence.
"I can't not know…"
He sat her down at the chair taking the finger from her and disposing of it in the trash. He walked back as he thought on where to start. Sitting himself down in a chair in front of her. Sighing as he tried to find his words, then his voice echoed throughout the kitchen as he began.
He then went through from where she said she last remembered. How she was completely lost, almost captured… She suffered a head injury so that could be a reason for her memory loss…
Once he got to the part of Keith… she couldn't believe it… His… description of this horrible person that did those things, caused his anger to rise and her discomfort becoming more aggressive. His voice held hatred as he spoke. She felt the ringing begin once again. Her head started to pound, but she wanted to know. She fought till it became too difficult to bear. Holding a hand to her head hoping to ease its tension.
He stopped explaining, starting to notice her discomfort.
"Are you alright?"
"I-I can't think about it or it hurts…"
"Hurts?!"
His hands rested on hers, his concerns seeming to elevate. As her breathing began to hyperventilate. His hand started to move to her backside, to rub her back as she tried to calm herself.
The kind man she met before…
He did those things?
He tore her clothes off?
He tried to steal her innocence she was saving for someone special?
Her head felt like it was being torn apart from the inside. She grinded her teeth as she attempted to subside the pain. It was obvious it wouldn't stop.
Why was this happening?!
And why was Loki being so nice!?
Why did his touches feel so nice in all her pain?!"
"I can't continue… Every time I try to remember it feels like my brain is about to split in half."
She sat up trying to breathe, feeling his thumb trace her hand. The other leaving her back to place on her head.
He looked in thought, he was taking a moment of silence to ponder how to move forward. His next words were filled with a serious yet malice tone.
"It's probably the subject… It is a pretty traumatic experience. There is something erasing those memories. It's physically trying to keep you from remembering. Although it's painful and it causes discomfort either way, I'd rather you forget it… If I could forget, I would. Because, I wish the man was still alive so I could kill him again… I still hate him even in death… Maybe it's more of a blessing than a curse… Would you like to talk about how you came to have the finger?..."
"Maybe it's best…"
Loki had another silent moment, his face turning a little flushed. Changing from his serious gaze to a man looking to break from a single thought. Which was completely unusual to her... He held an expression she's never seen on him. He then shook his head, seeming to get rid of his previous thoughts, making his expression calm, and continued on. Skipping ahead of the story, leaving parts out that would probably hurt her or weren't important…
He started with her collapse, how she couldn't be awake after being drugged by the goons. How he fought… how he did his best to keep her safe… There were too many, each with unique abilities. The monster that held him to the ground with its claws…
She gasped as he described how the more he tried to escape the deeper he could feel its claws dug in him…
How something snapped…
How he felt his ice build in him to the point he stopped the creature's life in a swift thoughtless act. He seemed rather impressed with himself.
Then how he was tortured, he said it felt like his body would explode from the pain. The man who caught her and tortured him, then had his heart ripped from him… she looked at him in shock.
"His heart was ripped out?! That's brutal, who would do that?!"
He looked at her in silence.. his face was readable before he spoke…
"I DID THAT!?"
He nodded slowly in response. She swung her body back and slammed into the back of her chair. Staring at the ceiling in disbelief. She couldn't believe she did such a thing. Her hands covered her eyes as she tried to calm her breathing. She rose her hands above her to look at them, seeing the blood under her nails as hard evidence of her crimes. She didn't even notice them before in the shower… Her hands started to shake involuntarily under her intense anxiety. She wiped them on the legs of her pants feeling them to be dirty, then she waved for him to go on. Keeping her gaze up.
He slowly continued… his voice sounded sympathetic as the details he described didn't sound like her at all… She turned into a Beast of enormous size. A dragon… the description is too obvious of what it was…
Then his voice held admiration and joy, he seemed very proud of her, for her first full transformation on her own. Into a tremendously powerful being at that. As he spoke warmly of her triumphs and glory.
Although she didn't feel victory… she felt guilty the more he spoke…
How she ripped the people apart… how she killed them all… how they were all eaten alive… His proud voice was fading, she couldn't hear him anymore over how loud it was in her head. She shut her eyes tight as it was pounding, it sounded like something in her head was angry. It was clawing and ripping out everything in her head, screaming loudly, making her cover her ears. She held her head squeezing it hard trying to ease her pain. All noises were completely deafened by the ringing within them. She swung her body forward as it all intensified within her. She couldn't keep her balance or take the pain anymore, making her fall forward as sounds left her.
"Ahhh AHHH!!!"
"ANNALEISE?!"
She fell out of her chair, to her knees on the floor holding her ears tightly to her head.
He was on the ground with her, his hand on her back trying to figure out how to help her.
Then Monica came up to place her hands on Anna's head.
Her pain is beginning to fade. As she felt the soft glow of colors fill her head. Her dark vision behind her eyelids became a beautiful array of wonderful shades and tones of any color Anna could think of.
It was mesmerizing… She felt a deep calm from within, slowly pacing her heart and her breathing. The pain leaves her, finally feeling like she could breathe…
"Whatever is keeping you from remembering, is fighting hard. It doesn't want you to know. For whatever reasons it has… it won't let me in either. The least I can do is calm the beast within you."
Those words resonate with her… Monica did as she said, Anna could feel its rage beginning to calm.
The beast within…
She remembered a dream she once had.
Speaking with it, telling her about her power, and the hate she held deep down towards the people that wished her harm. Could it have been that? The Dragon Loki described… she saw it before… details he mentioned, was exactly how she saw it.…and now it was killing people without remorse…
The Dragon… was her… a part of her capable of murder… a part of her that doesn't care if people die under her hand… but she, in fact, did care… but found she didn't at the same time… she felt guilt and pleasure all at once.
How?!
How is this okay?!?
SHE ATE PEOPLE!!!
HOW CAN THAT BE A NORMAL THING TO JUST ACCEPT?!?!
HOW CAN SHE MOVE ON KNOWING SHE DID THAT?!?
'You must…'
She looked at Monica in her inner turmoil. Looking deep within her white orbs, not seeing her mouth move as she heard words in her head.
'You saved us…You saved the lives of those remaining. The ones running to survive, have more time now… The people you killed did horrible things… They would have continued to do so if they had lived… Even if it was to save their own skins… They enjoyed it… A part of them was happy doing the things they did…. I know… because I heard them… every single day… They were too far gone… They treated us like outcasts. We weren't as powerful as them, we couldn't muster up the courage to do what they did…. So they bullied us, tormented us, shunned us,... hurt us… You are our savior, despite the death and destruction… So don't despair… You looked at us and told us we were innocent. That we deserved a second chance to choose our fate… Knowing that if we went back after such a loss, it would have meant death for us… You gave us mercy and the invitation of your home… When all of us… even me… didn't feel we deserved it… We are truly grateful to you, my lady, even if you aren't yourself. We don't see you as a Beast, you are our hero, our leader… our Queen. We will follow you anywhere.'
Anna's head was free of the pain. Her stare held towards Monica was intense, her eyes that were once full of hurt had softened. Her heavy heart began to lift of the guilt, her head seeming to calm in its furry. Monica's words brought a calm and peace to Anna. She didn't feel she deserved, but wanted so desperately to feel.
Although, she didn't know if she could trust a judgment she couldn't remember making that call for. She didn't feel worthy of the titles, but they were still kind to say.
"Thank you."
Monica nodded in response with a pleasant smile that graced her lips. Maybe this woman wasn't so bad after all… Despite the fact she's not supposed to trust them, she felt she could trust Monica. Even if she invades her privacy, at least she is kind, honest, and shows she respects her wishes not to exploit her thoughts or secrets.
Maybe the beast knows she couldn't handle remembering those things. Keeping her safe from more pain in seeing such images, knowing her guilt would eat at her. She should know herself best…. Right?
Loki looked between them once again in confusion… His gaze fell deeply on Anna as he was rubbing her back trying to give her comfort. His touch sends shivers within her. He probably felt her body shake thinking she was in fear from her inner terror. She didnt feel pain or terror, but really his gentleness was driving her insane. Taking her mind off of the subject entirely.
The kitchen became crowded as the remaining of the group walked in through the doorway, both yawning and stretching as they came in. A young man with red hair that looked like fire and a taller man with a lot of muscle. The same black outfits worn on all of them. She looked at them all… finally tired of not knowing who it was she welcomed in her home. Without remembering their names… It's just bad manners. From her spot on the floor she spoke up trying to look at all of them.
"I don't know any of you…I'm sorry I have to meet you all over again… but I don't remember any of you… I would like to know more… if you don't mind…"
All eyes were on her. The two boys in the doorway froze and stared at her, the girl in front of the stove looking over to Anna in her concerns while trying to focus on the food as well. The fish boy looking up from the book he was lost in. Other than the ones that probably woke up to the ruckus. The other two must have been pretending to not listen before, but she could tell they were paying attention. Monica looked at Anna from where she stood, staring down with a small smile. Her white eyes that held no vision looked through her mind and soul, giving her comfort as she nodded to her.
"We never got the chance to fully introduce ourselves anyway."
Monica extended her hand out to Anna. She grabbed it without hesitation, Monica's grip on her hand pulled Anna to her feet. Loki looked up at them from the floor. He then moved to a chair beside him to watch Anna silently. She looked around the room waiting for the first to speak.
The red head spoke up in his boisterous and energetic voice despite just yawning not too long ago. He seemed to be gaining his energy to get the attention in the room.
"Well, they call me Blaze, my real name is Russell Smith. You can call me Russ, Russell, Blaze… or Babe."
He leaned against the doorway, looking at her with a smirk and giving her a wink. She rolled her eyes at the action. She then heard a grumble come from where Loki sat, she looked over to see him stare daggers at the flirt.
If looks could kill…
She turned back to see Russell get smacked in the back of the head by the large hand of his friend beside him. Russell went flying towards the floor, he shouted in surprise as he hit the ground. She heard Loki laughing, looking back to see him completely amused by the entire thing from his spot. Russell groans from the floor, she looks back forward to him rolling onto his back to look up at his companion.
"W-What was that for?!"
"Because, you can't go five seconds without being a complete scoundrel. Which is entirely inappropriate for the person that saved our lives."
The muscle man crossed his arms looking down at Russell with disappointment. The red head plopped his head back on the ground holding his head in his hands, groaning in annoyance.
The muscled man shook his head as he sighed, looking back at Anna and bowed in his response.
"Do forgive him, my lady, he's always been this flirtatious. Anything that breathes is capable of his interest."
Russell laughed from his spot on the floor. He mumbled to himself low enough for others not to hear. Although, Anna's hearing and sense of smell has seemed to have improved tremendously overnight. She could smell the milk going bad in the fridge…. So, she heard every word he said.
"Right… I forgot… I'm not good enough for a goddess… what was I thinking…"
Anna was completely baffled by his tone, it sounded angry but hurt… A goddess?
Her thoughts were distracted by a swift movement of the other man as he completed his action.
The muscle man's head and body was bowed low, a sign of deep respect for her. One hand behind his back, the other across his chest. He was bowing in such a perfect stance, he looked like he was trained to do it his whole life. He looked up to her to speak once more.
"The name that was given after my abilities is Maximum. My real name that has been given to me since birth is Maximus Collins. Pretty easy to remember. Feel free to call me Max. It is a pleasure to meet you, my lady."
Bowing his head once again. He was very proper and dignified the way he spoke. She felt like she was meeting a prince. Funny how she didn't feel this way when she met Loki… He actually is a prince and she didn't even have a clue. She then realized she had to get something across, it was getting rather annoying saying nothing about it.
"For the record, Anna is fine."
She said as he stood tall once more, he rose his body standing tall. He walked forward looking down at her. With an odd gaze that was hard to read. She's never seen an expression like that on him or anyone when looking at her. Once he was towering above her he reached for her hand, grabbing it, bringing it to his mouth, and graced his lips with a small peck on her hand.
"Anna… what a wonderful name… it suits you… might I just say… truthfully…You are the most beautiful creature I have ever laid eyes on. Of course, I only say this out of deep respect for you."
Her cheeks glowed bright red as her heart raced at the gorgeous man saying such kind words. His eyes were the deepest of ocean blues, his short hair was a golden blonde, slicked back with stray hairs that fell forward flawlessly. His angled jawline and muscles that looked perfectly cut into perfection. His infectious sweet smile warmed her chest. A small smile graced her lips, she couldn't help but be swept by his words. She knew better than to trust pretty words for they could have hidden meanings. However, his felt honest and true, just by the way he looked at her.
How can a man be this handsome?
How can he wake up looking so perfect?
How can he say such things to her of all people?
Then his blue eyes grew wide and curious, his smile spreading as he squeezed her hand lightly in excitement. Luckily for her, as someone who looks like he could snap her in half. He seemed to have a gentleness and sweet personality. He looked like a happy giant child as he spoke.
"What you did was incredible! I've never seen something so amazing! Were you really a dragon?!"
He happily asked her questions till the excitement on his face died after a hand was placed on his chest. A hand that was gripping him, pushed him back as the figure stepped in front of her. Max had his hand pulled from hers as Loki got between them, they both looked pretty irritated… While Maximus had a look that was once sweet, it turned sour as Loki stared intently at him. He stared back with the same fire. Then Loki spoke with a deep intensity in his voice.
"Personal space is to be respected in this household. Men are to not be closer than five feet to a woman unless they intend to court them… "
Okay… that makes no sense, Loki…
They haven't been practicing that at all… Thinking back to all the hugs and invasions of personal space. In fact, they haven't been more than five feet away from each other… The entire time he's lived here, now that she thought about it…
Wait!
Does that mean he intends to court her?!?!
Has he been this whole time?!?!
NO!!! THAT MAKES NO SENSE!!!
Why would he?!
He must think SHE is trying to court HIM. All her closeness has made him think there has to be more.
She got so comfortable around him… She forgot to give him his personal space… No wonder he was confused… He must be kind to her because he feels he must… After all, he does live in her house…
She was acting too familiar, so it was causing misunderstandings… Maybe they didn't do anything last night but he must have felt like he had to in order to stay… She didn't feel any different… down there… If they did anything, she should know right?
But…. In the end…
It makes no sense to be with her… There's no happy ending with her… She will put him into danger or abandon him… not by choice… but by having her life taken from her if she fails…
She's a risk. A mess. A disaster waiting to happen…
He could have died trying to keep her safe last night… If her body can't be controlled while she is awake, turns into a full blown dragon while unconscious, slaughters people in seconds without knowledge of doing it, living her life on the run, always in danger, or is the danger herself.… She was a liability… She would do nothing but get him killed…
What If the beast within eats more people… Even if they were bad people, they were still people…. Eating people is wrong… She felt like a Monster… Now she had no room to judge Loki for his mistakes… When she can't even remember her own… She felt sick… she was honestly surprised she hadn't thrown up more body parts, if she ate that many people…
Where did their pieces go?
Is she digesting them right now?!
Tbyhe smell of food was not appetizing at the moment.
She decided not to think about it, it was starting to make her queasy…
She should have seen this sooner… she was happy to ignore it all before, just to be around him. To be in bliss with just the two of them… there was the possibility of more then… Now… it was too obvious what the answer is now…. Her crush is crushed…
She could never be that way with Loki, not without dragging him into a life of misery. It's best she never thinks of this…
She was a burden…
She was better off staying away…
She was getting too close to him… It was causing problems… It was all making it seem like she intended to trap him into a life he would never want. She can't want him… as much as she would like to have him…
He is a God… She's a Human/Mutant…
It could never work…
He will outlive her anyway…
Well then…
More than five feet it is… She can't let this misunderstanding continue.
Again, Anna felt her soul being watched over… She saw Monica staring through her, holding a face of pain. Anna then decided maybe it was best to stop thinking so much. Anna's inner voice wasn't just hers anymore.
She must have really zoned out, because the boys were now having a private discussion within the living room. They were in here just a second ago, she didn't remember what was said… she wasn't listening…
She probably looked odd just standing there staring off into space, lost in thought.
She turned to face Monica, who turned and graced her hand on the chair next to her. Filling Anna in on her next introduction. Obviously avoiding the subject for Anna's sake.
"This is Kade Cunningham. He is one of our smartest, less of a flirt."
She said moving her hand to pat the fish boy on the head, who looked up from his book, his skin was a shimmering blue from all the scales. Light green on the tips of his gills on his neck and fins that extended from his ears. His big blue eyes filled with big pupils. He waved with a small smile in response, and returned to his book.
"I'm more interested in the people in books than the ones outside of them, they are nicer even if they aren't real… Besides, women aren't my type… I prefer men over women, even if I do find them to be beautiful, there's something about a man that just can't be compared to a woman…at least to me…"
Kade looked nervous to say it, he must be used to ridicule for confessing such things. His honesty was brave and yet appreciated by Anna the most as she smiled warmly to him.
"Thank you for telling me, I'm glad you are true to yourself, Kade. It's important to never forget who you are. If this is who you are, be proud of it and never ashamed. It's them who should be ashamed for not appreciating you for being true."
He stared up at her with a look of shock, then relief while his eyes held pain. He must have had horrible experiences, poor man…
"Thank you, that means more to me than you know, My La-... Anna."
He corrected himself as he continued on with the book, seeming to search it through thoroughly for something. Clearing his throat, seeming to keep himself from showing emotion.
Then a small, tender, and sweet voice came from the direction of the stove. Anna turned around to see the girl at the stove looking nervous and shy as she spoke.
"My name is Jessamine Winters, my super name is Ivy. Just call me, Jess. I really like flowers, I was wondering if we can invite more in the house, if that's okay. I really hope we can be good friends."
Jess had a hand closed in front of her mouth and her other on her chest. Her eyes shimmering with hope and looked quite convincing, but…
Anna's gut was telling her, Jess was just acting cute… Something about her makes Anna feel it's all an act. There's no way someone purposely talks like they are the female antagonist in an anime… That acts all cute, shy, and innocent… Then they turn out to be quite the master manipulators… She hoped she was wrong, that she read too much manga and watched too many anime dramas. Unfortunately, Monica's look of astonishment was present on her face. She looked rather surprised Anna already caught on to Jess. Then, Anna knew she was right, after Monica tried to hide her expression. Being a mind reader, she knows now, Anna figured it out. Making it all more convincing that Anna wasn't too far off the mark.
Maybe Anime can be helpful and that all those hours watching them weren't wasted after all.
Now knew she needed to keep her guard up around Jess, she only trusted people that were true to themselves. Until Jess proves that, Anna has no need to give her any trust. If they aren't true to her, neither is she to them.
"I'm friends with anyone willing to accept me."
One thing Jenna always said, 'Don't let your enemies know what you know, keep your friends close… enemies closer… So they can never hurt you. Be ready for the attack they don't know you're already prepared for. Find out their plans, ruin them, and defeat them in their surprise.'
She said it was the best way to keep from getting your heart broken. If Jess wished to be her enemy Anna would be prepared for her strike. Until Jess proves to be true to herself, Anna has no reason to give her more than a smile.
"I love plants, I have a lot of plants that dont grow pollen throughout the house. Because I have allergies, I don't keep a lot of flowers in the house. I am sorry about that, but I don't mind more leafy plants though."
Jess's eyes turned sharp for a quick second, it wasn't hard to miss her slight hatred for not getting what she wanted. Jess quickly composed herself as she spoke once more.
"Oh… that's fine… I was really hoping for flowers…"
Disappointment lacing her words as she held her face in a small pout. Anna was telling the truth, she can't handle pollen indoors, it usually becomes hard to breathe… She couldn't handle suffocating even a little bit without it sending her into a panic attack…. Making it even harder to breathe…
"Well, that I can't agree on. I do apologize, I don't mind flowers outside. If you want to plant a garden, I don't mind."
Her head was low as she seemed to be more disappointed.
Does this woman just not like to be told, no?
She must have been spoiled at one point. Anna could smell the kitchen starting to get a little smoky.
"It's fine. I don't need flowers."
Jess said, then her shoulders jumped when she gasped. She must have started to smell the food getting a little overcooked as well. She turned around to continue with the eggs and bacon. She then shouted over her shoulder.
"Does anyone want a crispy over easy?"
Kade with his eyes never leaving his book, raised his hand in response. But then, Russell busted through the doorway with his boisterous attitude.
"I do! Gimme, gimme, gimme!"
He races over to the pan, takes it in his hands without hesitation, and places it whole in his mouth. Anna winced as she imagined how hot that was. Although, he was chewing delightfully as steam came out of his mouth. Not phased at all. A small 'Hey' leaving Kade as he slumped his head in disappointment.
"K-uld have uesh shome shalt n pepa."
Russell said with a full mouth, with small bits of egg leaving it as he spoke.
"RUSSELL! Stop talking with your mouth full, you are spraying it everywhere you idiot!"
That shout came from Jess herself, her skin grew thorns in her anger. The shy girl has a bite… and thorns apparently…
Russell swallowed his food, then he laughed for a little before he continued.
"Jeez, Thorn, calm down. There's no need to be so prickly."
"DON'T CALL ME THAT!"
Her thorns got longer, her head becoming crowned by long red thorns. Then Jess's anger seemed to settle with Loki walking through the door, he had an intense look. Max not far behind him with a sour look still on his face. Max was making faces behind Loki, like a child. Which made Anna giggle, causing both Max and Loki to look at her. Loki is all she paid attention to, his intense look turned soft as he looked at her… with the look of… unmistakable longing again…
Why does he keep looking at her like that?!
Why can't she stop thinking about him?!
She can't go five seconds without staring into his soul trying to read his body language… she needs to get a grip…
She looked away from him to pay attention to anything else. She saw that Jess was trying to calm herself while Russell looked all the more intrigued.
Jess reached out and squeezed Russell's arm with a smile plastered on her face. He began to groan and squirm under her grip.
"You know how much I dislike that nickname, please don't use it in the future…Now….
Go sit down…"
Russell's voice was strained between laughter and pain as he replied.
"You seem quick to change your demeanor… Does someone have a crush on the new guy?"
He shouted out as her hands grew thorns that dug through his skin. Her smile twitched as her eyes were closed, a look of annoyance clear on her face. Ignoring his screams, refusing to let him go in his agony. She opened her eyes to glare at him as she said in a fake nice voice.
"Don't be ridiculous. Go… Sit… Down…"
Her thorns retracted as she let him go. He cradled his hurt arm, and carried his lip in a pout as he spoke.
"You're so mean when you pretend to be nice…"
She turned to look at him violently holding the spatula like she was going to smack him with it. He chuckled as he quickly skipped over to the table, aggressively sitting down in the chair. Laughing the entire time. He seemed to enjoy breaking Jess from her character she tries to maintain an image for. She continues to flip eggs, grumbling to herself.
How did she end up cooking?
It was supposed to be Loki wasn't it? He got distracted but Jess seems fine with the role.
"Anyone want their eggs scrambled?"
Anna looked around to see Monica and Max with their hands raised. Then her eyes fell on Loki, he looked around the room as well. Then his gaze stopped on her. He raised his hand with a shrug of his shoulders. Anna also had her hand raised. Jess looked back for a second and saw all who had raised hands, before turning back to her task. Anna wanted to make a special request of hers.
"May I have cheese in mine?"
Jess didn't seem to acknowledge she said anything, Anna figured she spoke too softly. She attempted to speak again. Until, Loki spoke over Jess in the same tone as Anna spoke before. Except from farther across the room.
"I would like cheese as well."
Jess turned to face them with a small smile and spoke in her soft voice.
"Of course."
That… little… bitch…
Monica chuckled to herself, seeming to enjoy Anna's inner comment. Monica then said.
"Just put cheese in all the scrambled eggs."
"What a great idea Monica!"
Jess said excitedly in response, snapping her eyes over to Anna, her smile faded, turned sour, and she turned back to her task.
Anna was already starting to dislike this girl… She will not judge her too harshly, she will give her a chance… maybe many chances depending on how bad they are… If Jess won't prove she doesn't mean to hurt Anna in any way, she's going to need to figure out where she's going to have to stay.
'Go easy on her, she might have a broken way to view herself, but she's not bad. Yes, she can be mean, spoiled, a little bit of a hothead, and can be very selfish. But… she isn't a killer… She has more heart than she lets others see… She pretends to be weak and nice to get to know the people around her. She's actually a lot stronger than she looks, you can't tell how strong she is if she acts like that. So, she keeps it that way. People will normally succumb to her cute nature, it's rare that anyone wants to hurt her. It keeps her from fighting battles, keeps her safe. Even more rare that she doesn't get her way. Mostly, she's a little jealous of the attention you get and a bit angry about the attention you won't give her. She can tell you're aware of her techniques, that you see it's an act. Despite the jealousy, she really thinks you're bright and you light up a room. She hates how you're both smart and beautiful, she's just intimidated in all truth. She will probably hate that I'm telling you this, but you have the right to know who is in your home. How we truly feel about you, most of us yearn for the honesty between each other. Because it was hard for us to trust. If it weren't for me butting my head into everything, they would have never trusted there to be truth among us. I know who they are and who they can be. They have their flaws, but they are healing. Same as I. Jess can be pretty petty at times… but she has a heart of gold if you get to know her. I can promise it's true, I've read their minds for the past 5 years. These are my dearest friends, we have all gone through a lot. I trust them with my life, they would never bring you real harm. They might annoy you a lot, but they aren't evil. That I can guarantee.'
She blushed at the mention of her being smart and… beautiful… was she the only one that couldn't see it… everyone says she is but… she always thought of herself as… average… below average sometimes…
Anna was amazed at the rawness and honesty. She couldn't help but feel like she always made these people out to be her enemy. She judged these people before she met them. She figured any person that has been through what she has would be hateful towards any others they found. But, as it turns out, she did just that. After she saved them... Even unconscious, she she could trust her own judgment... She did eliminate a good number of their crew, that were evil. Who these people obviously felt no sentiment towards... infact they look happy...
Anna felt horrible for not seeing them to be more. They didnt seem dangerous and normally she had a good read on people... Thats why she felt that something was off about Jess... But she felt deep down that Monica speaks the truth. So for now, she won't be quick to negative ideas...
Anna guessed if you must trust one person in the room, it's the one that knows everyone's true intentions… Monica calls them her friends. If they have known each other for 5 years, they must be damn good ones.
Chasing and hunting down people for a living does sound like a rough time in your life to develop trust issues and trauma related personality traits. It's easy to bond to others who also feel killing is wrong in a group full of killers. It's also easy to get shunned from the rest, if you're still trying to be a good person while surrounded by death…
She felt sorry for her thoughts and judgment from before, Anna promised then to keep a more open mind. They are still people despite their past, they think and breathe like she does. They have feelings, same as her, and understand what Anna has been through her entire life the most out of anyone. Although Anna was safe in her seclusion, they were stuck on the other side of it. Unfortunately, they had the worst of it. She couldn't imagine what they have been through, they might be comfortable enough to tell her someday… If they stay that long…
Are they staying?
Where else could they go?
She has the space for them, there are 2 more bedrooms and a loft…
In the end...
She couldn't blame them, they shaped themselves to survive. She had some of her own trauma from being hunted, she couldn't blame Jess for being defensive. But that still didn't mean that she liked her… Her little googly eyes towards Loki were getting annoying quicker than the others eyes on her.
Why did it annoy her though?...
Why should she care?
So, what if Jess likes him?
What if he likes her?
She shouldn't get in the way if someone else could be better for him. Even if Jess is bad for him, that is for him to decide, not for Anna to interfere…
The feeling of eyes on her mind started to become more recognizable…
Anna should know by now not to think so much. But, she somehow feels comfort that someone else can listen and help her to understand her own thoughts and feelings… She has always had trouble trying to navigate them or understand them. Monica isn't saying anything, about anything.… Which makes it easier to not be so worried. It seems, unless it's necessary, she won't speak up.
As long as it's just between them…
She probably wouldn't mind getting used to it. Having someone know exactly how you feel and know when others tell the truth, is valuable to have. If she can keep secrets, she's a good friend, but still the scariest of them all since she has all the dirt over their heads.
She could hear Monica giggle to herself as the rest talk among themselves. While Anna was in her own world. Loki and Kade seemed to be deep on their own as well.
Kade seemed to have finally found what he was searching for. Showing a part in it that had Loki's nose deep inside the book…..
Oh no… he found it… Loki looked completely enraged as he read the story, she knew that it would piss him off if it wasn't true…
She would have been genuinely surprised if it WAS true…
She was rereading the story the other day to refresh herself… She couldn't help but be completely on edge reading it while he was there. She was so scared he would look over her shoulder and see what was causing her mind and heart to go crazy.
Now she can definitely tell, it's not true, he looked ready to kill whoever wrote it.
So, now… she can never confess she thought it was… kind of…
…
She wouldn't dare to finish that thought…
Once Jess was done cooking she let everyone know, then everyone's head perked up. The hunger obviously shared among all of them. They all grabbed a plate and started to prep them. Making their plates how they wanted.
They all sat down at the table getting their plates scarfed down. They brought more chairs in so they could all fit around the table. Everyone was too hungry to talk. Except Russell who wanted nothing but to talk even with food in his mouth which caused a kick to his shin from Jess. He inhaled sharply. He looked over to Jess. Who was looking innocent as she continued to eat, with Russell glaring at her.
The rest laughed at the scene, except for Loki and Anna who seemed too focused on their plates of food.
Her thoughts before made her not so hungry, but her body needed to eat as her stumach grumbled. Which is surprising considering she ate twenty-five people, not all of them whole apparently. Which caused a snap in her head, like her brain got whipped... This dragon was getting ridiculous... So, she thought of more important things as she tried to eat her food.
She was thinking about living expenses.
How do they move forward?
What's the next course of action?
They can't just sit and eat three course meals a day with just her and Loki working, she still has to find a way to get Loki his new job. She figured he could probably magic his way into the position if he really wanted it.
She also had to get them something lined up as well, they would probably not be so excited about getting real jobs, Kade might have more trouble getting one than all of them. Considering he doesn't look human and people will judge him for it. Maybe he can help her remove trash from the river not to far from here. They pay people to do it around here since not a lot of people will do it for free. Anna can say she was doing it and give him the money after. It helps the environment and he can use his abilities. She assumed his power was related to water. Jess can work at the floral shop in town. Russell can join the fire fighters, his power must be related to heat. Max looks like he had super strength and he would impress the guys at the saw mill. If they weren't taken over by the bad guys… Now that she thinks about it, they were always evil. She didn't really like the fact they were cutting down the forest. But, it is the highest pay around here, the wood is used for housing. Although she had a feeling that if Max joined, it all might be demolished in a day…
So, skip on that idea…
Maybe he can join the police force, he seems like the hero type. They could use a strong guy, since all they have is donut-loving, lazy men for cops. The typical stereotypes are actually Grindlewood's task force. He might make them more lively.
She felt aware of her thoughts being watched and looked over to the culprit.
Monica was staring through her with an expression that seemed to like Anna's way of thinking.
"They would love those jobs. What do you think I could do?"
Anna was surprised by her response but continued with the same joy Monica held.
"You can work with the police force in town as well, I think you could be great as a detective. They don't do much action, they help solve crimes, but there aren't many in town to begin with. It's a pretty mellow town. Although, in the end, no injustices can get past you if you can read their minds. You know the truth and can find hard evidence that others can't discover like you can."
"Won't they care that I'm blind?"
"How capable are you? You seem to get around fine."
"I can see through other people's eyes if I touch them. I can actually maneuver pretty well on my own tho, my mind is very open to the astral, mental, and physical plains. I can actually feel if I'm getting closer to an object and I can almost give them shapes sometimes. I can feel people around me, I can hear them all the time and feel their presence."
"So, you're not completely blind?"
"Thanks to my abilities I can see where I'm going just enough to make it on my own. It's just more difficult when I'm alone than with another person. It is like walking in the dark at night, with no lights on, only with moonlight shining that gives items their shapes. But if I touch someone, I can see perfectly through their memories."
"But if you had to and you were determined enough, could you make it look convincing that you were half blind?"
Everyone else seemed intrigued by the conversation, each listening intently to what she was trying to get at. Except for Loki who was staring down at his plate, poking at his food around the plate.
Monica is even more excited to hear her answer since she hasn't thought about it yet.
"Yes, I could. What are you getting at?"
"Why not wear contacts and fake glasses? Make your eyes look like you can see through them, you can have any color eyes you want, and wear the glasses periodically. Get the strongest prescription to make it convincing, it doesn't matter how powerful they are since you can't see through them anyway."
Monica's face lit up. She was very excited. She seemed to really love the idea.
Turns out you can surprise a mind reader. Just say it before you think it. She always was quick to ideas as a child, she was a daydreamer on superheroes and fantasy stories at that age. Leading on to adulthood, she still felt the same. It was amazing to find out most stories she had read as a child did come to life… Heroes, villains, dragons ... and Gods… A pretty cool life now that she really got to take a deeper look than most. Anna was a part of it… but that fact couldn't make her happier… or sadder… She felt almost numb… All that stuff doesn't really live up to much when things turn out the way they did… Her villain took everything she loved… Her Hero is a God, that's her crush, who she can never be with… At least being a dragon is really cool… Unfortunately, she couldn't remember it at all…
She realized she could have had a normal childhood if she didn't get sick… If none of them got sick… They could have too…
But what about Loki?
Where would he be if he didn't fall into her life?
She wondered why…. that no matter what… She was thinking about Loki somehow…
The laughter at the table broke her from her thoughts.
Monica seemed to be too busy listening to her friends now boasting, saying she would make a great detective. They were happy making her sound cool, while laughing and joking around. Monica smiled widely to herself as she looked towards Anna to ask.
"Do you want to tell them your ideas or should I?"
Anna was grateful they seemed happy to listen, she couldn't help but smile as the group had eyes on her, all excited to hear more ideas from her. Even Jess. Loki seemed to be the only one still poking at his food, hardly touching the plate seeming lost in thought…. She wondered what ate at him… as she continued to make conversation for breakfast. Not making them wait any longer as she told them her ideas.
Loki's POV
Annaleise's ideas sparked every one of them with inspiration. They loved her ideas, as did he. But, for some reason, he didn't want to engage in conversation or eat at all. He was hungry before but he was slowly losing his appetite as he lost himself in thoughts.
How do they move forward?
Will these people be a good thing for her or a bad thing?
She needed friends… But he is worried he might get in the way of her relationships.
What if she decides she doesn't want him and will want one of these people?
They all seemed nice the more they talked and laughed. Each of their personalities have eventually brought a smile on her face. With his presence, he's only seen her face in pain. It was nice to finally see her smile...
She bonds quickly to these people. With anyone really, she treats everyone and everything the same. Always doing what she can to help. So, of course, people would love her… he did… right?
They all had her intentions in mind as far as he could see. They respected her.
It was great to see that she wasn't wrong to trust them, but he was still on high alert… just in case…
What nagged at him the most was…
How can he confess his feelings all over again?
Where could he even begin? When was the right time?
They might affect her differently now. He probably couldn't exactly say it the way he did, it was perfect as it was… it was pure and from the heart… He didn't rehearse it… it just came out… He can't forget the look on her face as he said the words… He can't forget her reaction...
It hurt in his chest to think she will never remember how it felt, how she felt… how he felt…
She doesn't look at him like that now…
since she forgot.
Which hurts even more…
In fact she looked more confused by his actions, and has done nothing but pull away...
She has other choices besides him now… They could be better for her… Then he could ever be…
So maybe, never… He might never tell her again.
Annaleise's is strong, she has a fire, she is almost like a mind reader herself, and she loves nature… Fish boy seems under her league… 10,000 leagues under… Annaleise could very well like women. He has been rejected by some ladies that realized their preferences.
A lot of relationships he ever had would never last. He was untrusting of them. They couldn't understand him, they wouldn't even try…
Although most of them could have been excuses for how often they were.
Annaleise was different… She seemed miles ahead of anyone he's ever met…
Kind, courageous, smart, loyal, caring, powerful, compassionate, inspiring, honest, and good… really good… maybe too good for him…
He never felt like he couldn't trust her… and that was a first… He has been wary of everyone he has ever met. But, she wasn't the case, she was sincere and her actions speak for her more than her words. She wasn't selfish or distrusting of him, she was giving, thoughtful, and made him feel she wasn't capable of betrayal.
For the first time he feels genuine, he feels like a different person… He was changing his ways of thinking… and his heart…
His heart felt warm in her presence… he felt like she was melting the ice over his heart… Ice that he never knew was there, but used it to keep himself from getting hurt all this time without ever realizing it. It must have changed corse, he has gained control over the ice. he fwlt it when hw used it to save her... When he saved her he felt a power so deep within him he thought was never there before.
Because of her...
He felt open and bare. He felt free… no longer trapped under an image. A pedestal that made him feel he had to be perfect… He always had to be smart, strong, brave, and clever... Now he felt stupid, weak, and scared, but still very witty.
In the end… He wasn't mad about it… For once he was happy to be those things… To know that if this was love... it felt amazing when she would hold him like she did...
When she...
When they...
kissed...
All of it filled him with joy before... But now he felt sorrow...
He did not know whether it was a good thing or not…
It's hard to fully understand his feelings, but he knows they are foreign to him. Enough so, that he is clueless how to love or if it is love that he feels. It was the most logical explanation it could be for him to be acting this way.
He saw it first hand, in his brother… He couldn't understand it then. Now he understood his brother's actions… That humans are surprising after all… They weren't all weak and pathetic creatures.
One Human woman was able to do what many other Gods and powerful beings could not… teach Loki, The God of Mischief what Love feels like…
What its like to be given real love... He felt it in that moment they shared together... At least thats what he hoped it was...
He couldn't deny the feelings in his heart when he imagined their moment under the stars. How the stars shimmered and dazzled brightly in her eyes. How her lips felt against his.
His hand traced his mouth at the thought, the memory making his body ache to hold her again. To have her arms wrapped tightly around his neck, holding her close, and feeling her body pressed against his.
Just thinking of mere images of her body from last night, caused his to react violently.
If she was bare like that just for him, the thought alone was doing unspeakable things to him... He couldn't believe how a single touch or thought could completely destroy him. He was terrified he would snap her in half with how much excitement she brought him. If he ever got the chance to do what he wanted to do to her… She probably won't be able to walk for a week…
If she hadn't have kissed him he probably wouldnt be so infatuated with the idea of more. He could have let it be just imagination, now with knowing what it felt like... What her lips tasted like...
They were sweet. They tasted like the strawberries he let her try...
He wanted more...
Annaleise deserved more than just pleasure, though…
As much as he would want to… she would have to want it as well…
He doesn't know how to give her the love she deserves, when he never understood what love was before. He never knew it could be strong enough to make him risk his life for her. He would have thrown his life away to see her live for another day… That had to be Love.
He would have never done something like that before, he wasn't a Hero. He was always a manipulator, a master at tricks and lies, and would use deception to get himself away from death's clutches.
Last night… the only thing he wanted more than anything… was to keep her safe… To see her tomorrow and the day after, to see her smile… to hear her laugh… It was more than a primal desire for her, he couldn't imagine a life without her in it anymore. It felt unbearable, lonely, and… like a life not worth living…
How could that be? He was a God, she couldn't live nearly as long as he could. She would meet death eventually… That didn't stop him from thinking of ways to try to keep her forever…
Still….
It doesn't matter how much he wants her… If she doesn't feel the same, he can't force it… She will have to love him on her own, he can't just ask her to love him like she did last night… but… she didn't say it… she didn't say anything… she... kissed him… But he can't just go off of THAT as an answer… Could he?
She didn't look like she felt the same as last night... She couldn't remember so he couldn't blame her… but it still hurts.
What the reason was for her memory loss, wasn't much of a mystery. It could have been related to the head injury, but something told him it was something else…
He looked in her head to see eyes staring back at him, eyes of the dragon, the kind of stare that was giving him a warning. He couldn't go much deeper to figure out why because of that warning. He saw what that dragon could do last night. If Annaleise wasn't subconsciously aware when she was a dragon, there's no telling what it could do to him if he decided to pry further.
There are many things from last night she was better off forgetting. Was he one of them?
Will her head hurt if he tried to tell her?
He would hate for his feelings for her to cause her such pain. But... The thought of these people taking his place in her arms from last night, made him want to destroy the table in front of him.
How could he bear to watch someone take her from him and say nothing?
He felt like he could say a lot of words, shout them even… but she deserves happiness. It shouldn't matter who it is that can give it to her… As long as she was happy and safe…
Even if he wasn't.
Shouldn't that make him happy seeing her with a smile someone else gives her?
Even now, he could tell the answer.
He witnessed exactly what would answer that question.
The red head just said something flirty again… This time, instead of Annaleise not caring about it…. Her cheeks were flushed… a smile tacing her lips... small but there...
….
He wanted to break the table again, this time with Russell's help…
He wanted to reach over, grab his head, and slam it through the table to the floor.
So the answer was, no…
He wasn't happy.
He was very, very, very Violently Bloodthirsty…
Russell must have felt eyes on him, and made eye contact with Loki's death glare.
The redhead stopped smiling, his eyes never left Loki, he was completely still, and didn't move an inch. Russell's survival instinct must have kicked in, still holding food in front of him as it drops off his fork. Loki almost felt the urge to stand up and make that boy run for his life. Till he heard the one voice that could make him melt… and melt he did under her words once more. Or rather, one word…
"Loki?…"
Her giggles made his world shake like an earthquake. His own name sent shivers down his spine when she said it. Her very existence demolished his entire being... thoughts, words, and hatred left his orifice completely when she talked or moved.
How in the Nine Realms is she affecting him like that?
She has to be some sort of sorceress, she has to have put him under a spell to have his own name break his composure like that.
He's been like this all morning! Acting like a lovesick fool just from looking at her or thinking about her. He has hardly left her side or kept his eyes off of her.… OR, he was getting ridiculously angry at the help for being flirty towards the most precious thing to him. To the point of scolding them or threatening them with his stare.
He hasn't been composed at all… BUT WHY?!
Is this love or is this a spell he's under?!
Or both?!? Love spell?! Love potion!?
She snuck it in her amazing food!... No she wouldn't do such a thing… Or could she and he just don't think she is capable of it because the potion was so powerful!
…
Now he just felt ridiculous. It's not the case at all. He just wants it to be true… He wants it to be an easy fix, like an antidote… but deep down he knows the real truth… and he fears there is no cure…
All eyes were on him now… everyone was quiet…
His eyes haven't left Russell. At this moment he was staring through him, rather than at him. For how long was he doing that though…
He can't focus, he can't decide whether to look at her and keep becoming so weak in front of her… in front of these people.
Or… if he should keep staring at this fool like a fool.
Maybe say something, anything… but nothing
came…
Either way, he still looked like an idiot…
He decided to stand up from the table, say nothing… and left.
Ignoring any angelic words that came from her, hearing her caring voice fade as he walked up the stairs, into his room, and shut the door…. Maybe a little too hard…
That was still an idiot move…