Ron's mouth gaped open, his mind reeling as he tried to process what she had just said. He shook his head as if the physical movement might somehow rearrange her words into something that made more sense. "What?!"
"You heard me."
"Yeah, and that's the issue" Ron ran a hand through his hair " I thought I heard you say you wanted to approach the muggle and ask them to see Harry."
Hermione's eyes rolled as she crossed her arms over her chest. "Wow, I'm amazed your ears work, that was exactly what I said" she deadpanned
"Hermione!"
"And it's mundane, or Non-maj Ronald, not muggle. We're in America now, so do try to keep up," she snapped at him before turning on her heel and striding away, leaving a bewildered Ron in her wake.
Ron's eyes followed her as she stormed off, her hair whipping around her face in a sign of suppressed anger as her magic leaked out from her. "You're still upset from earlier, aren't you? I said I was sorry!"
Hermione turned sharply, raising a finger in the air. "That's not the issue here! I asked you to trust me and stay calm, and what do you do? You nearly cause the plane's engines to blow up! And to top it off, that idiot decided to… ugh!" She stormed off in frustration.
"I said I was sorry," Ron groaned as he shoved his hands into his pockets. "But I still don't think we should involve anyone mu…ndane in this. Think about the state of secrecy!"
"Oh, come on, Ron, just look around!" Hermione waved her arms at the chaos surrounding them. "Do you honestly think Harry wouldn't be mixed up in all of this?"
"Well..."
"No, don't answer that. It was just a rhetorical question," she growled out.
Hermione walks towards the towering structure, its immense size becoming more and more apparent. Ron cranes his neck to look up, feeling a wave of dizziness wash over him at the sheer height of the building. It seems to stretch infinitely into the sky, making even Hogwarts Castle seem small in comparison.
"And the MACUSA would probably just roll their eyes and pass off the issue to someone else, as all the damn politicians are doing these days," she grumbles, stomping away from her red-haired boyfriend. He can't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for his brother; Harry must have angered her this time. But then again, he probably had it coming.
The automatic doors of the building were still functional, miraculously swinging open for them. Ron stood in awe of the massive glass structure, marveling at the ingenuity of muggles. He wasn't too happy with how Harry had handled the Patronus message, but he knew it was better to keep a low profile if he wanted to avoid Hermione's anger aimed tower him.
While he thought she might be taking things a bit too far this time, she was too damn moody, Ron had absorbed a few crucial lessons from his school days. One was to never challenge an angry Hermione; it rarely ended favorably. The other was that she was usually right, no matter how it appeared. He hoped Hermione knew what she was doing.
"Wow," Ron whispered in awe as he stepped into the massive structure; the towering glass walls soared above him, and sleek, modern lights dangled from the ceiling. Through the windows, he observed people moving purposefully, their voices rising in a flurry of commands.
Despite the chaos that had just unfolded, with signs of a recent explosion, the crowd appeared remarkably composed and orderly. Muggles were truly peculiar.
"Hurry up, Ron!" Hermione called out, waving him over. Ron paused for a moment, then stepped closer to her, peering at the dark screen with a puzzled expression. Was there something significant about it?
"If you wouldn't mind, Mr. Javis, could you please reach out to Mr. Stark? We would appreciate it."
"Uh…" Ron furrowed his brow, confusion etched on his face. "Herms, why do we need to contact Mr. Stark? What's going on?" He glanced around the sleek, modern lobby, the contrast between the magical world they knew and this high-tech environment making him uneasy.
"I've let Mr. Stark know you're on your way. Just take the lift to your right, and I'll guide you to your destination."
Ron glanced around, puzzled by the voice that came serenely out of nowhere. "Huh?"
"That's perfect, Mr. Javis. Thank you for your help, and understanding."
"It's my pleasure, Miss Granger, but please, call me JAVIS."
"Huh?!" Ron stared at the dark screen, struggling to grasp the situation as Hermione took his hand and led him forward tower the elevator.
"What in Merlin's name was that? Where did that voice come from? Who is Stark? Is Harry here?"
"Oh, stop it." Hermione clicked her tongue and dragged him into the elevator. "I'll explain it all later."
"Why not just explain it to me now?" Ron protested, his eyes wide with confusion. "How could that muggle be trapped in that little glass jar? Is he a spirit?" The thought made him shiver; he had had enough of ghosts back at Hogwarts.
"I'm not a spirit, I'm an intelligent program created by Mr. Stark to assist him in his daily activities." Ron flinched at the voice coming from the ceiling.
"Oh hell no!" Ron exclaimed as they stepped out of the elevator and into a long, sleek hallway. "A haunted building? I did not sign up for this."
Hermione rolled her eyes. "It's not haunted, Ron. JARVIS is an artificial intelligence program, not a spirit."
"A what?" Ron asked, his eyebrows furrowing in confusion.
"It's like a magical portrait, but for muggles," Hermione explained patiently. "It can think and communicate on its own."
"Right," Ron said slowly, still skeptical as the elevator door opened and they walked out.
"Please wait in here and I'll tell Mr. Potter where to find you," said JAvis, now from the corridor ceiling as he automatically opened a door to a conference room.
"Thank you very much," Hermione replied, ignoring Ron's grumbling as she pulled him into the empty room.
When the door opened, Hermione immediately spotted Harry. She straightened up, arms crossed, and wore a stern expression. Her gaze met Harry's, then shifted to the muggles behind him, before returning to him.
Harry glanced at them too and nodded. "They know."
That was enough for Hermione, whose eyes narrowed as she addressed him. "Harry. James. Potter," she began in a cold, sharp tone that stopped Harry in his tracks."Vacation?"
Harry's eyes widened as she spat out that word with disdain, her hair flaring around her hair, she now completely ignored the other muggles around the room.
"Vacation?" Hermione repeated, drawing out each word deliberately. "Who do you think you are, you bloody wanker?" She approached him slowly, and Harry gulped nervously.
"Eh.."
"No!" she snarled as she held up a finger, making Harry's mouth shut with an audible klick. " Not only that, you abandoned our regular plan..."
"-In my defense, it probably wouldn't have worked- "
"-DO NOT interrupt me" Hermione snarled as she stalked forward tower Harry "You will shut up or merlin forbidden I will curse you so bad that not even your mate will be able to recognize you."
Harry nodded quickly as he stared at a very furious Hermione with wide eyes, he let his eyes flicker toward the red-haired man who held up his hand in a surrender motion and Harry's eyes narrowed. Traitor.
"You charged into battle without thinking, and who knows what else you did in the 10 hours it took us to board a bloody plane." She huffed before glaring at him. "And if that wasn't enough, as soon as we were alone, your patronus appeared with your message that everything was over and done with. And what? You thought that would be enough for us to forget everything and go on a vacation? A VACATION?! What the hell, Harry!" She punched him hard in the chest.
A burst of magic erupted from her, shattering a few lamps in its wake but it had gone unnoticed from the witch.
"Do you not realize how concerned we all were when we heard what happened? Why didn't you wait for us to arrive? And did you even find Loki? Are you alright? What happened out there?" Her questions came out rapid-fire and she didn't give Harry a chance to answer before her hands were on his face, turning it left and right as her large brown eyes glimmered with a mixture of anger and fear.
And as she was too emotional to even think straight, and would probably not let him answer her question right now. Harry did the only thing he could think of. He swallowed his pride and enveloped her in his arms.
Her words caught in her throat as she tried to speak. "You can't...you can't do that!" Her anger boiled over and she struck his chest again, but then collapsed into his embrace, crying in frustration. Hermione weakly hit him again before grabbing onto his tunic and sobbing uncontrollably. I've just... I... We..." She suddenly couldn't get any words out as tears choked up her throat.
"Ah! No, don't cry Herms, I'm fine, everything is fine" Harry said quickly as he hug her tightly, he hated seeing her crying, especially over him. "I'm alive, I'm here, everything is alright…. please don't cry" he begged her.
"I'm not crying… you idiot, I'm not!" Hermione sobbed, not fooling any of them.
Harry glanced anxiously at Ron, silently asking for assistance. But his so-called brother simply grinned and wrapped his arms around them both, with Hermione in the middle like a sandwich. "You heard the woman, she doesn't cry"
"Traitor" Harry muttered with a crooked smile while he felt his shirt getting damp from the 'imaginary tears' that Hermione didn't shed.
Honestly, it felt good to have them so close, their magic caressing him in welcoming waves as it had been a few stressful hours. They had always acted as something of a calming factor for him since he came into his creature inheritance.
Maybe that was also why he noticed that there was something else pulsing against his magic. A soft and curious touch, a magic that did not belong to either of them but was a combination of two, something new. Harry blinked in surprise and opened his mouth to say something before closing it, no, it was not his place to say anything. But that explained the mood swings and he couldn't help but wrap his arms a little tighter around his sister. Happy for both of them and the new life they had created.
A minute or so later Hermione dragged him away and wiped away the tears that were only imaginary and Harry smiled down at her. A shift in the room behind him made his body freeze for a second, ready to defend his family, before he remembered that they were not alone.
Harry looked over his shoulder and now saw Loki standing there, together with Thor, Tony, and Bruce.
"Oh, blimey, I'm so embarrassed!" Hermione said when she noticed the others in the room, a blush tinted her cheeks "This was so rude of me! My name is Hermione Granger, and this is Ron Weasley, we are this idiot's family" She narrowed her eyes and swatted his arm "Sadly enough"
"Hey," Harry protested.
"No problem at all, just nice to meet you," Tony said with a grin "You probably know who I am but to make it easier I'm Tony Stark, this is Point Break and Raindeer game"
Hermione's brow furrowed in concern as she glanced over at the imposing figures of the gods. Her eyes roamed over their regal forms before settling on Loki, who stood out amongst them with his mischievous smirk and bright green eyes. A glimmer of recognition sparked in her own eyes and she quickly bowed her head. "Your Grace," she spoke with utmost respect, "I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for my brother. I know he is not always the easiest to keep track of, but we love him all the same." Her voice was sincere and full of gratitude. "And I wish you good luck"
Ron erupted into laughter while Harry gaped at her.
"Hermione!"
"What?" She sniffed and tilted her chin up. "Whoever is stuck with you will need all the help they can get because of your Potterness."
"My what now? That's not even a real word," Harry argued, but couldn't help but smile.
"Oh, I think I will like her," Loki said with a small grin "but I think you've got it completely wrong my dear. It's Harry here who saved me"
Harry felt a warmth spread across his cheeks and he cleared his throat slightly when Hermione gave him a sly smile. He rubbed the back of his neck, causing Hermione to follow the motion with her eyes. She noticed a slight tremble in his hand and tension in his jaw. Her gaze lingered on his arm, which she suddenly realized was different.
Without thinking, she reached out and grabbed his arm, causing him to stiffen at the sudden movement. It was the arm with his soul mark, and he looked down at her sheepishly, unsure of what she was thinking but letting her be.
Hermione's voice shook as she asked, "When did this happen?" Her fingers were gentle as they traced the flowers etched onto his wrist.
"Huh? What?" Harry couldn't see any major difference from before, maybe more flowers had bloomed? However, he let his sister turn and twist his arm so that she could pull his shirt up higher.
"This," she said, and shook his arm "The color is different, duller than before, like it's losing its color"
Before Harry could get a word out Loki was there next to him and took his arm in his with a frown. Harry's heart jumped in his chest from the proximity of his mate, and he felt his pulse shoot up as Loki's hand caressed the mark.
"She's right," Loki muttered with an undertone of worry as he unbuttoned his shirt sleeve and pulled it up so that his mark was exposed.
Tony whistled lowly, "Matching tattoo? Is that some kind of tradition for you guys or something?"
Thor denied with a simple shake of his head, "No, it is a soulbound mark. Only those whose destinies are intertwined can bear their tattoo. It is a symbol of their strength and love, and they are one-of-a-kind for each couple." His frown deepened when he also noticed the lack of coloring in his shield brother's mark.
Loki's tattoo was a stunning display of vibrant blues and yellows, but Harry's tattoo appeared as though it had been smudged with ash.
There was suddenly a heavyweight in his throat, hindering his breathing. Harry's mouth felt dry and rough. How could this be? When did it happen? He didn't notice anything out of the ordinary before - certainly not yesterday. He distinctly remembered the colors being more pronounced then.
But that wasn't entirely true. Harry felt his heart beating hard and he tried to hold back the panic that was spreading in his chest. He had felt it on the roof, after the last time when it felt like his soul was tearing itself apart. The tingling sensation had spread up and down his spine.
A fear gripped him. But this time it wasn't from him
Harry felt a shiver run down his spine as he stared at his tattoo, now a dull gray against his skin.
"What does this mean?" Tony asked, breaking the silence that had fallen over the group.
Loki's eyes were narrowed as he studied the mark on Harry's arm, "It means that something is wrong," he said gravely and almost out of breath.
Thor's face was etched with concern, "Brother, what is happening?"
"I don't know." Loki's grip on Harry's arm tightened, his fingers digging into the flesh as panic surged through his body. His breath came in quick, shallow gasps and his heart beat frantically against his chest.
The overwhelming sense of fear that was suddenly emanating from Loki was suffocating, causing Harry's pulse to race and his stomach to turn. He could feel the weight of their situation pressing down on them like a heavy fog, suffocating and all-consuming.
"Loki?" Harry softly called out but received no response. The god was completely still in front of him, his normally expressive face now a mask of stone. Harry couldn't even tell if he was breathing. As he looked at the pale complexion and unmoving form before him, dread crept up in his chest.
"I believe that Mr. Odinsson is having a panic attack," JAVIS told them and Harry turned out the people around them.
Harry pressed his hand against Loki's chest, he could not feel the rise and fall of his chest as he had stopped breathing. His hand was warm against Loki's cool skin and Loki's hand trembled in his grip. Harry put a hand against Loki's chest "Come on Loki, breathe" he muttered but got no reaction. It was like he could not hear him.
'Breathe Loki, you have to breathe' Harry said over their bond, his hand squeezing down hard on Loki's now shaking hand. His fingers felt icy against his skin and Harry took a step closer to the older man. He could swear the temperature had dropped around them, and he brought his free hand up to Loki's hair and dug it into the jet-black strands as he pressed his head against his.
Loki's face contorted in pain and fear, his eyes wide and pleading as he could not focus his gaze. He clung onto Harry, his fingers gripping tightly onto his shirt as if he was holding on for dear life. His body trembled uncontrollably, sweat glistening on his forehead as he drew in a painful breath.
'Exactly like that' Harry whispered, as he brought their intertwined fingers up to his chest, and laid it flat against his sternum. Where his heart was beating fast and hard in his chest.'Do you feel that?' he said in a soft voice 'I'm here, I'm alive, and I'm not going anywhere,'
Harry's shirt was being pulled taut against his chest as Loki's fingers gripped it tightly. The prickling sensation of Loki's nails digging into his skin was both uncomfortable and reassuring. Loki's whole body was now shaking uncontrollably as he finally began to allow air into his lungs.
'Good' Harry praised softly, and his gaze shot up to Hermione and Ron who waved silently to him before they followed Tony and Thor out of the room, and left them alone. Something Harry was eternally grateful for as he did not believe that Loki would have liked his panic attack to be seen by anyone.
Loki's leg gave away suddenly, and Harry followed him down to the floor. Still holding Loki's hand tightly to his chest and the other one lightly gripping his hair.
Loki was still shaking, and if the purple grape wasn't already dead, Harry would kill him a thousand times over in the most painful and slowest way he could think about.
Slowly Loki began to breathe again. His breath was cold against Harry's neck, and it worried the young man a little but not enough to let go of him.
'I'm here' he whispered again softly over their connection, and he noticed that Loki was starting to feel a little more in the moment. A sting of shame from the older man shot through their connection, and Harry's grip on Loki's hair tightened.
Loki let out a low moan and his other arm slipped around Harry's slender waist and hugged him even more tightly than before. He could feel the panic starting to ebb, and he let his fingers massage Loki's scalp instead. Letting the older man collect his emotions and thoughts.
'I can't lose you again' Loki's voice was thin as he spoke, fragile. 'I can take any other punishment, as long as I don't lose you again.'
Harry ran his fingers through Loki's black hair, 'no one said you'd lose me again,' he spoke. No, he would not die that easy, the only question was who he would be when it was all over. But none of that mattered to him anymore, as long as he had a chance to stay with Loki. There was a strange feeling that filled him, this deep love was his, but at the same time, it came from Harald.
They stayed on the floor for a while longer before Loki started to move away more, and Harry let him. Loki squeezed his hand tightly in Harry's as if he was afraid he would disappear into smoke if he didn't hold him.
Harry let his fingers fall from his hair and instead let them slowly caress along Loki's neck and against his cheek. Loki pressed his head against his hand, his eyes squeezed tightly shut as he bit down on his lip so hard that Harry was worried he would draw blood.
Harry let his fingers caress over Loki's bruised lips "Don't do that, don't hurt yourself" he muttered out loud and Loki flinched slightly but did stop biting down on his lip.
"Look at me," Harry said softly.
Loki raised his head slightly, his eyes still closed. "I can't" he whispered with a shaky voice.
Harry's heart twisted in his chest and he could feel the pain radiating from Loki through their connection. "Please" he pleaded softly.
Loki slowly opened his eyes, revealing a deep sadness that Harry had never seen before. He looked away, unable to meet Harry's gaze.
"Look at me," Harry said softly but firmly, and Loki's eyes snapped back to him.
"You are not alone," Harry spoke with conviction. "I am here with you, always."
Loki's eyes searched Harry's face for any hint of doubt or deception, but all he saw was love and sincerity.
"I don't know what's happening to me Loki," he said slowly. "From what I remember, both from Harald's memories and my own, this situation we are in is unheard of." A small smile played on his lips as he said it. "But it's nothing new in my life, and I can promise you that I won't die. Because death would not dare to claim what is not his to claim"
Harry gently caressed his cheek and laid it flat against him. "Do you understand what I mean Loki?" he said, holding his gaze as the other man's eyes widened and his lips trembled as he tried to form the words that didn't come out.
'you...wha... you... how?'
Loki struggled to articulate a response, causing Harry to let out a small laugh. "I have no clue, Death has a peculiar way of testing its masters. But somehow, they deemed me worthy enough for the title."
Loki's eyes were wide with shock as he gazed at his mate, unable to comprehend the fact that he was the master of death. In a trembling voice, he asked, "What does that entail? for us?"
"That means you don't have to worry," said Harry. "What happens is what needs to happen. Whatever the outcome is. I have a hard time seeing where my memories end and where Harald's begins, or where his ends and mine begin. Yes, something feels wrong, but!" he hurried to say, hugging Loki's cheek tightly as he both saw and felt the panic bubbling beneath the surface. "I'm sure it'll be okay." Loki hugged his hand tightly, refusing to let go.
"We have to return to Asgard," Loki said suddenly. "They have the best healers, they have Eir, she can help you."
Harry looked at him thoughtfully. "But if you return there, are you sure they won't treat you badly?"
Loki shrugged as he tried to collect himself. "Nothing new, and even if they do, if you can get help I can endure the humiliation that comes with meeting them."
"But they are your family?"
Loki sneered. "No, they are not. I may be…accepted by Thor... but not by the others. Never them" he spat.
"Loki..."
"No, it's decided!" Loki said, forcing his stiff fingers to let go of Harry's warmth. It was the hardest thing he had ever done. But Loki managed it, and as soon as he was free, he stood up on shaky legs and pulled away.
"We'll return there as soon as Stark has fixed the transporter, so you can get help. That you can be fixed, I will not have you damaged" Loki trailed off as he lost his words again. His hands were starting to shake again.
Harry's body tensed as he exhaled deeply. "Fixed," the word echoed in his mind like a harsh slap. He knew there was nothing inherently wrong with him, but the thought of being "fixed" brought up conflicting emotions. Harry saw Loki flinch and grimace, as he realized his mistake.
"Harry..."
"No, it's okay," Harry said and smiled "I understood what you meant", that did not mean that it had stung. Harry knew that they were both mentally and emotionally drained and probably overreacted to the word. Especially Loki as Harry both saw and felt Loki dampen his side of their connection, and Harry understood exactly that the older man needed to gather his thoughts.
He stood up and looked at Loki "Let's go up to ours" he said and walked towards the door. He looked over his shoulder at Loki who seemed to have been caught with his gaze again.
"Are you coming?"
The air was heavy with unspoken words as they stepped into the room, the silence between them pressing against Harry's chest. Loki hesitated by the door, his fingers brushing the frame as though unsure whether to stay or retreat. Harry watched him, the weight of their unspoken fears and frustrations hanging like a storm cloud in the small space.
"Loki," Harry said softly, breaking the silence. Loki turned, his piercing green eyes meeting Harry's, and for a moment, they just looked at each other, the connection between them crackling with tension. Harry could feel it—Loki's anxiety, his fear, his exhaustion—all of it resonating through the bond they shared. He wanted to reach out, to pull Loki close and tell him everything would be okay, but something held him back.
"You're shaking," Harry murmured instead, gesturing to Loki's hands, which were clenched into trembling fists at his sides. Loki glanced down, his expression shifting into something unreadable before he turned away and walked further into the room.
"It's fine," Loki said, his voice flat, though the edge of it betrayed his effort to sound indifferent. He stopped by the window, staring out into the night as though the answers to all their problems might be found there. Harry sighed quietly and crossed the room, stopping a few feet away from Loki's rigid form.
"No, it's not fine," Harry said, his voice low but firm. He reached out, his fingers brushing the back of Loki's shoulder. Loki flinched but didn't pull away. "You can't keep pushing through this, Loki. You're not alone in this. Whatever is happening... we'll face it together."
Loki turned slowly, his gaze searching Harry's face. For a moment, Harry thought he saw the faintest glimmer of tears in Loki's eyes, but it was gone before he could be sure. Loki's mask slipped, just for an instant, and Harry saw the raw vulnerability beneath. It hit him like a punch to the gut, leaving him breathless.
"You don't understand," Loki whispered, his voice breaking. "If I go back to Asgard... if they find out—"
"We'll figure it out," Harry interrupted, stepping closer. His voice was steady, even though his heart was racing. "We always do. You're not alone, Loki. You never have to be alone again."
Loki's breath hitched, and he looked away, his jaw tightening as he struggled to keep his composure. Harry could feel the war inside him, the fight between his need to retreat and his longing to lean into Harry's words. Slowly, almost imperceptibly, Loki nodded. It was a small movement, but it was enough.
When Loki decided to take a break, Harry entered the living room. Despite its minimal furnishings, he walked over to the large glass window and looked out at the dimming light. Soon, the sun vanished, and night fell, yet Harry remained by the window.
As he stood there, peering into the darkness, an unsettling feeling crept over him. The connection between him and Loki was still fraught with tension, the emotions from their earlier discussion coursing through it like an electric current.
He knew that Loki was struggling, that the weight of his past and his uncertain future was bearing down on him heavily. But Harry also knew that he cared for Loki deeply, and he was willing to do whatever it took to help him through this difficult time.
Harry put his head on the thick cold glass window beside him and sighed. He should have known how Hemione would react to his message but he had acted arrogantly and told them off.
The look on Ron's face when he had stood there, and Harry hadn't felt anything besides a sheepish feeling. Like it all was a simple 'oops, my bad' moment. Not a situation where he once again could have died, and even when he had dueled that crazy woman who once was Harald's aunt, he hadn't feared for his life more than only thinking about how to save Loki.
Harry groaned only to spin around as he suddenly felt that he was no longer alone. His eyes flicked to the dark shadow in the doorway that stood there.
Loki's skin was pale, almost like alabaster and it was all in stark contrast to his dark clothes. When finally, Harry's eyes landed on Loki's face. The sharp but gentle curve of his jawline, the light flush of color on his neck and ears, his eyebrows looking sharp and clean. And his eyes. Harry swallowed as he tried to reel in his emotions but failed miserably as Loki could feel them and the corner of his mouth flicked up slightly.
But what caught his attention was Loki's eyes. In the darkness around them, he could not see the green in them. No. Loki's eyes were completely devoid of green, instead, they were almost black, like bottomless pools of darkness. But as he stood in the light from the panorama windows, they seemed to reflect all the surrounding light, creating an otherworldly effect, like a starry sky trapped within his irises.
The silence stretched between them as Harry swallowed and breathed out. The only sound in the room was the soft hum of electricity and the gentle beating of Harry's heart as he gazed into Loki's captivating eyes. He contemplated waiting for the other one to make a move, to do anything, but then again, he never had been particularly patient. "You should be resting"
Loki said nothing at first, only looking at him, and Harry thought there was a slight upward motion of his lips as he did. "We should talk" Lokis's voice was dark and low as he said that and Harry could not help the twitch in his eyes.
"I usually hate hearing those exact words, but you're right," he sighed, making his way over to the sofa. He plopped down onto it with a huff and tilted his head back. "Let's at least be comfortable while we do this."
Loki walked over to him and snorted as he did "True, perhaps the bed would be a better place?"
Harry grinned." I thought you said we needed to talk"
"Why yes, I did, are you implying something else?" Loki said with an innocent voice as he sat down with far more grace than Harry had done and leaned back and crossed one leg over the other.
Harry could not take his eyes off him, not for a second. "Perhaps" he answered with a smile of his own as he raised an eyebrow.
Loki was silent as he clasped his hand in his knee like that would stop them from shaking. It didn't. But Harry ignored it as he could feel how Loki tried to collect his words. Which was funny as if Harry remembered correctly, Loki always knew what to say. Then again, it was all in Harald's memories and not his own. Harry, who he was now, had all but nothing only knowing Loki for a few days. Yet everything inside of him screamed that this gorgeous man in front of him was his and he could not separate those feelings and he refused to think it was all thanks to Harald's memories. Harry refused to be controlled by another soul ever again. Reincarnated or not.
"I know that you are not Harald" Loki finally said in almost a whisper "I know that the man I grew up with, that I married, is gone" he licked his lips as he tried to moister them in vain " You are not Harald, yet your soul once were".
Harry was silent as he listened to Lokis words and he felt a cold hand grip around his heart as he spoke and he closed his eyes. Not wanting to speculate what his next words might be. "- and I can't help but be grateful for that" Harry's eyes snapped open and met Loki's dark ones and he let go of the breath he hadn't known he had held.
Loki smiled sadly as he continued "When I was under Thanos's mind control, all I could think was about how I deserved it, that this was exactly the kind of pain that Harald had experienced as h-" Loki drew in a painful breath "-as he died, and I knew that I deserved it all"
"Loki…" Harry began but Loki raised a hand and silenced him.
"I still think that. I don't deserve to get a second chance, yet you didn't care about anything of that as you dragged me out of my prison." Loki had not expected to meet his soulmate again, he had been ready to die and forgotten.
"What I want to say is that it was not Harald that came to my aid, it was you," Loki said and met Harry's eyes "The memories that you have are only that, memories. They can't make you do anything more than give your knowledge of the past, It was your choice to act that day and for that I'm grateful. You have given me a second chance and I will not let that go to waste"
It almost felt like his heart wanted to explode, Harry opened his mouth to replay but no words came out. He stopped and frowned as he tried to speak again but no words were forming and at Loki's chuckle he glared at him. Loki, unfaced by it all waved his hand again.
"Did you need to silence me?" Harry asked dryly as he stroked his chin, there had been no indication that Loki had done any spell at all "I would not have interrupted you"
Loki stared at him with those dark eyes for a long time before sighted and leaned back "Perhaps not"
Harry sighed and crossed his arms before him, and tried to not pout as he didn't even notice Loki using magic on him. He hadn't felt a thing, which felt strange and somewhat foolish to feel inferior to the god. But somewhere between his 21st birthday and the present he had come and felt a different kind of power overwhelm him. Perhaps he had become too arrogant? No scratch that, he was arrogant to even think he had been even close to what a god could do.
But all those memories from Harald had made him feel superior to his fellow wizards, why did he do that? Why was he even thinking differently than before? He was still him… right? No that was not true, he was no longer the human he was before. Then what was he? What if Loki was wrong? What if he loses himself to Harald? Would he cease to exist?
"You doing it again"
Harry was brought back from his musing and looked over at the other man and by the look Loki was giving him, he was not impressed with Harry's strings of thoughts and Harry felt his defense rise.
"If you don't like what you hearing then don't listen!" Harry glared at him
"I didn't say that" Loki's dark gaze was feeling more and more heavy by the second as he stared at Harry. He groaned and fisted his hand in his hair "I always had problems keeping my mind to myself."
There was no way that this kind of power didn't come with any kind of payment. Was that why Harald's memories started to feel…. less and yet the feeling he had for Loki, whom he hadn't even known was alive a month ago was growing ever stronger.
The truth was he was starting to crave more, he needed more, and he was afraid of what would come at the end. How could Loki look at him and not see his soulmate? Was he a replacement? Suddenly he flinched back as Loki suddenly appeared before him, stopping Harry in the middle of his pacing as he looked up at a pair of blazing green eyes.
"Don't insult me" Loki said in a low voice "I am many things, but I would never fall that low to see you as a replacement"
"I-…I didn't mean to imply that" Harry said as he looked away "It's just that it all is so –"
"Messed up? Stupid? Not what you want?" Lokis's voice was cold as it felt like it cut through Harry's skin and he flinched but did not step away. "if this is not to your liking then I will not impose on you anymore"
"No!" Harry said as took Loki's arm, stopping him from walking away "That is not what I meant, gah!" He groaned
Loki stared down at the smaller male. Sometimes touch said what words couldn't though, so he brought his hand up, first to ghost his knuckles over Harry's cheek, then down to cup his face and pull Harry in until their foreheads touched.
Harry stared up at him in surprise, before breathing out and his eyes fluttered shut. Even like this, Loki could feel the slight silver of tension draining away from both of them. With a deep breath, he focused on how Harry felt against him and used the reprieve to choose his next words.
"I know what it's like to be used. I spent decades bearly living at the mercy of a master manipulator, with lies spurned into a new reality. I know what I look like, I know how it feels to have someone twist you inside out to satisfy their need." Loki whispered as he felt the warmth of his other half. "I've never felt that with you"
Harry laid a hand over Loki's and put pressure on it, feeling the warmth ease the echoes of doubt rattling around in his head. "I learned not to trust someone's words long ago. I'm not naïve, I'm not stupid, and I don't like to be treated as such"
"I'm sorry" Harry mumbled as he pressed his forehead harder against his "I didn't mean to imply that"
"I know, little one," Loki said as he kissed his forehead " I know because your actions speak for you far louder than words ever could" He chuckled "And you keep on forgetting that I can hear your thoughts"
Harry felt the heat rise to his cheeks as he knew that it was true
"Oh, don't be like that my love "Loki hummed as his other arm snaked its way around Harry's back, pressing him closer to his body " I quite love to hear you rambling, it is quite grounding, and amusing to say the least"
"seriously not cool" Harry groaned as he thumped his head against Loki's shoulder as the other one chuckled affectionately as he nuzzled his cheek.
"It is super cool" Loki grinned "And the fact that we're both still alive is a testament to your coolnessiness "
Harry scoffed and rolled his eyes. "I'm positive that 'coolnessiness' is not a real word," he stated confidently. "What is it with you all and creating new words?"
Loki chuckled "Oh? Well then, let's make it one," he grinned mischievously.
"You are impossible," Harry muttered under his breath, but at the same time with a small smile playing on his lips.
"Thank you," Loki replied with a mock bow.
"That was not a compliment," Harry glared at him,
"Yes, it was," Loki insisted, his impish grin growing wider.
"But that aside. I know what I feel for you is real" Harry said with a sigh "I know what's in my heart is what I feel, but it feels too…."
Before he could finish his sentences Loki's lips were on his, effectively silencing him and his mind suddenly went silent as a relieved sight left him.
Harry could feel Loki smile against his lips and the sensation flicked something inside of him as he brought a hand up behind Loki's neck and pressed him forward so that both of them tumbled down on the sofa.'Challenge accepted'
Loki laughed low as he nibbed at Harry's bottom lip ' good'
There was no hesitation in the kisses that followed. Harry kissed him with a determination that hadn't been there before, displaying a new self-assured confidence that Loki had come to admire in his partner. As Harry settled into his lap, Loki shifted to lie back and Harry eagerly joined him, straddling him and diving back in for another kiss. With one hand tangled in Loki's hair and the other restlessly exploring, Harry traced the curve of each muscle he encountered, savoring every inch of skin he could find.
"I would like to get to know you" Harry suddenly whispered against his lips. He pulled back to sit up, still straddling the other male's lower half as he smiled and brushed some of Loki's hair out of his face. His eyes followed the moment as he did as he felt the warmth of the other one beneath him. "The one you are now," Harry said with a smirk. "So, my dear prince" He bent over him, letting his long hair fall over his shoulders, framing Lokis head below him as he stared into Loki's eyes. "Would you do the honor of letting me court you?"
Loki stared up at Harry with a cute shocked expression and the look he got back was filled with affection, love, and desire. He chuckled as his hands found Harry's hips and he griped them hard, like he was afraid that Harry would disappear again."And they say I have a silvertoung"
Harry snorted unattractively at the comment, his lips quirking into a smile as he felt Loki's hands grip him even harder. The sensation sent shivers down his spine and he couldn't help but lean in for another kiss. As their lips met once again, Harry held his breath until his lungs ached, savoring the moment before finally exhaling slowly. He hoped that the rhythmic breathing would help calm down his overstimulated nerves.
Despite the exhausting day, they had both endured, followed by an emotionally draining night, he couldn't help but feel grateful for being in Loki's arms.
"I would be honored to," Loki whispered, breaking apart from their kiss.
They both knew they needed rest after such a tumultuous day and even longer night, but unfortunately, Harry's mind refused to slow down. It was like a never-ending game of mental gymnastics, constantly running through different scenarios and emotions. But for now, he was content in this moment with Loki by his side, and that was enough to ease his racing thoughts.
Harry couldn't deny that the night had some positive aspects. After all, any evening that ended with a passionate make-out session with a devilishly handsome man couldn't be considered a complete failure. Yet, there was an underlying sense of desperation and urgency in their kisses, as if they were trying to prove to each other the validity of their feelings and the depth of their discussions through physical contact. It was almost as if they needed this physical connection to solidify their bond and make it more tangible.
Their lips met in a frenzy of desire. Harry's fingers traced Loki's jawline, the light, almost non-existent stubble on his chin adding an extra layer of sensation to the experience.
Loki's hands in turn roamed over Harry's body, tugging at his shirt and pulling him closer. Harry could feel the heat emanating from Loki's skin, driving him wild with need.
The sensation of being pressed against each other was almost too much to handle. Both men were breathing heavily as their bodies molded together, finding a rhythm that felt so natural and right.
Harry felt a stirring in his chest, a primal urge to draw Loki near. His mind was filled with swirling thoughts, a mixture of fears and desires that drove his fingers to wander under Loki's tunic. He could sense Loki's yearning over their bond, and it intoxicated him like nothing else could.
A low growl escaped his lips as he pressed down over Loki, and when the other man gasped, Harry seized the opportunity to deepen the kiss. His tongue explored every inch of Loki's mouth, savoring the taste of him and sending shivers down both their spines.
They were lost in each other completely, caught up in a passion that seemed to consume them both. It was only when Harry realized that they were running out of air that he pulled away reluctantly.
They both gasped for breath as they gazed into each other's eyes, neither willing to break the intense connection between them. Harry's fingers trembled with a raw, almost feral need as they slid over Loki's velvety skin.
His heart pounded in his chest, a thunderous rhythm that matched the erratic pulse he could feel beneath his palm. The moment Harry's fingers hooked into the waistband of Loki's pants, a jolt of electricity shot through him, his cock twitching in anticipation even as he focused entirely on the god beneath him.
He yanked the fabric down with desperate urgency, exposing Loki's length—an exquisite, flushed shaft that throbbed with want, the tip already glistening with precum. Harry's breath hitched as he wrapped his hand around Loki's cock, the skin impossibly smooth and hot against his palm.
Harry started slow, a lazy, deliberate stroke that made Loki hiss through his teeth, his hips jerking involuntarily. Harry's grip tightened just enough to tease, his thumb swiping over the slick head, spreading the wetness in slow, torturous circles. "Fuck," Loki gasped, his voice a broken whisper that sent a shiver down Harry's spine.
"You're so bloody perfect," Harry murmured, his voice low and rough, each word dripping with worship. He leaned in, his breath ghosting over Loki's ear as he stroked him with agonizing slowness, teasing every inch of him. "Look at you, god of mischief, unraveling for me. You're so goddamn beautiful like this, Loki, And you are all mine."
Loki's head fell back, his throat exposed in a way that made Harry's mouth water. His lips parted on a silent moan, his chest rising and falling in ragged breaths. Harry's hand moved with purpose now, each stroke deliberate, each twist of his wrist sending jolts of pleasure coursing through Loki's body. The god's cock was slick with precum, the wet sounds of Harry's hand sliding over him filthy and intoxicating.
"That's it," Harry coaxed, his voice thick with desire. "Come for me, Loki. Let me see you fall apart."
Loki's breath hitched, his body trembling as he fought the wave of pleasure building inside him. His hips thrust into Harry's hand, desperate for more friction, more heat. "H-Harry," he choked out, his voice raw and wrecked. It was like a prayer, like a plea, and it sent a surge of primal satisfaction through Harry's veins.
"Say my name again," Harry growled, his grip tightening just enough to make Loki arch off the sofa, his back bowing in ecstasy. "Come on, Loki. Say it."
"Harry," Loki gasped, his voice breaking on a moan as he finally tipped over the edge. His cock pulsed in Harry's hand, thick ropes of cum spilling over his fingers, warm and sticky as it coated his skin. Harry watched, mesmerized, as Loki's body convulsed with pleasure, his muscles taut and trembling, his lips parting on silent cries.
Harry didn't stop—couldn't stop. He kept stroking him through it, milking every last drop from him until Loki was trembling and spent, his breaths shallow and ragged. Finally, Harry leaned in, pressing his forehead against Loki's neck, his hand still wrapped around his softening cock. He could feel the rapid thud of Loki's pulse beneath his lips, the faint tremors still wracking his body.
"You're mine," Harry whispered again, his voice thick with possessiveness. "All mine."
Harry heard Loki's soft chuckle at his possessiveness as he placed a tender kiss on his forehead and whispered, "Yes, little one." They both needed some rest after the intense pleasure they had just experienced, but knowing that there would be more to come was enough for Harry at that moment.
They slowly made their way to Loki's bedroom, washing off the evidence of their passion in the shower. With Loki's help, Harry found that his mouth was skilled at more than just speaking enticing words. Finally, they collapsed onto the bed, still entwined in each other's arms as they let sleep drag them under.