Category: Loki Inspired (Page 14 of 18)

They had arrived in Asgard a couple of days by now, Diane had been quite nervous about meeting Loki´s parents but Frigga had been nothing but welcoming to her and although Odin was rather reserved at first he had fallen in-love with his new-to-be granddaughter Samantha. And in return Samantha was delighted to have someone to call grandfather, the fact that he could do magic as Loki was only the cherries in the pie.
-I envy you brother-Thor said to Loki
-Why, brother? You have Jane; you could marry her if you wanted to. I´m sure father would object at first but at the end he would accept it-
-I know he would, but even if Jane and I decided to go ahead with it the weight of the crown will always be on my back-Thor confessed
-Yes, that´s true Thor. You are becoming wiser-
-Not as wise as our Father, though I hope to be at someday-
-Cheer up brother, even if I´m officially death you can always count with me-Loki said as he placed his arm around Thor shoulders –Now come with me to the bath house, we have a cleansing ritual to perform-
-All right brother-Thor answered with a grin
The ceremony was to take place in the feast hall; a small number of guests were included, the list of the people that knew Loki was still alive was very exclusive.When Frigga first told Loki that the Warriors Three and Lady Sif had been included in the wedding party he almost had a fit, he wasn´t at all keen on the idea but her mother reassured him that they had no ill wills against him anymore-Through loyalty and magic they had pledge to keep the secret, don´t worry son. I´ve thought of everything.-He knew she most certainly had thought of everything but still escaped his grasp why had she included them.
Odin would be officiating the ceremony, all preparations had been made, the dowry accorded.
Frigga had insisted that Diane would wear her Bridal Crown, though Diane had pleaded not to –You will become my daughter, I have no one else to pass it to but you and you at your time will pass it to Samantha. It´s a family heirloom, it should stay in the family- she had finally accepted, she was becoming and Asgardian princess now, she should learn to play her role.
One evening Frigga found Loki lost in his thoughts as he saw Diane and Samantha play in the gardens. –You love her very much son-Frigga said startling him
-Yes, I do mother. I think of every moment I spent with her precious as they are numbered-he sadly replied
-Oh, my son, don´t tell me you have forgotten about the golden apples of Idunn-she replied tenderly
He had, he was so stupid-Oh, mother, you keep banishing my fears away. I hesitated about marrying her due the pain of losing her on account of our very different lifespans. You have made me incredible joyous by reminding me of the immortality properties of the Idunn golden apples- he kissed her cheek as he run towards Diane to convince her to share an even longer life at his side and Samantha´s.
The wedding day had arrived, Diane was wearing the bridal gown Frigga had given to her, it was white with beautiful embroidery fit for a queen she had told her, a veil that covered her light brown hair. Loki´s groom gown was as exquisite as hers golden embroidery that stood out on the green fabric.
Odin had given Loki Bor´s ancestral sword for the wedding; he tried to refuse it saying that he should keep it for Thor´s wedding but Odin wouldn´t hear of it. -You are my son and I will do with my father´s ancestral sword what I decide, and you will accept it- he had no choice he didn´t wished to anger him besides he wouldn´t say it but he heart fully appreciated his gesture.
Loki started reciting the customary asgardian wedding vows as he gave Diane his ancestral sword “She is receiving something that she must hand over intact and undepreciated to her children, something for her sons’ wives to receive in their turn and pass on to their grandchildren”
Diane responded as he gave Loki her gift to him, a sword carrying her family crest “This interchange of gifts typifies for them the most sacred bond of union, sanctified by mystic rites under the favor of the presiding deities of wedlock”
As he looked into Diane´s eyes he started reciting his vows to her-I, Loki Odinson, in the name of the spirit of God that resides within us all, by the life that courses within my blood and the love that resides within my heart, take thee Diane Castle to my hand, my heart, and my spirit, to be my chosen one. To desire thee and be desired by thee, to possess thee, and be possessed by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee, thy beliefs, thy people, and thy ways as I respect myself.
Diane answered I Diane Castle, in the name of the spirit of God that resides within us all, by the life that courses within my blood, and the love that resides within my heart, take thee, Loki Odinson to my hand, my heart, and my spirit to be my chosen one. To desire and be desired by thee, to possess thee, and be possessed by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change thee in any way. I shall respect thee, thy beliefs, thy people, and thy ways as I respect myself.
Odin stated as they exchanged rings after their vows: -The ring is an ancient symbol used to seal a solemn promise. These wedding rings, the perfect circle of love, will serve as symbols of your unending love and faithfulness and remind you of the vows and covenants you have made today.-
Finally Odin hand fasted their hands as he said:
Blessed be this union with the gifts of the East.
Communication of the heart, mind, and body
Fresh beginnings with the rising of each Sun.
The knowledge of the growth found in the sharing of silences.

Blessed be this union with the gifts of the South.
Warmth of hearth and home
The heat of the heart’s passion
The light created by both to illuminate the darkest of times.

Blessed be this union with the gifts of the West.
The deep commitments of the lake
The swift excitement of the river
The refreshing cleansing of the rain
The all-encompassing passion of the sea.

Blessed be this union with the gifts of the North
Firm foundation on which to build
Fertility of the fields to enrich your lives
A stable home to which you may always return.

The celebration banquet followed plenty of mead and delicious food for all the guests, afterwards Diane asked Loki while in their new chambers –Loki?-
-Yes?-he half sleepily answered
-I wonder if you … would… like …ummh … show me your jotun form-she stammered
-Why? – He almost felt of the bed surprised by her request
-Well, I´ve never seen you in your true form and now that we are married by both Asgard and Earth laws I think that I should know how my husband looks like, I don´t want to have secrets between us. I don´t want you to think it is something you need to hide from me-
-I don´t want to scare you- Loki felt uncomfortable with her plead
-I won´t be frighten I promise. I would love you even if you were purple with green dots- she jokingly replied
-I don´t think there is a specie that looks like that-he reasoned
-Please? –she looked at him with so much love he couldn´t deny her
-All right-he sighed as he shimmered out of his asgardian appearance closing his eyes as he was scared of her reaction-
-You are so beautiful- was her response
Loki opened his eyes that were met by hers not a shadow of fear on them only love.
-You really think so?-he asked her in disbelief
-Of course- she told him with a smile- Now, come to bed- she patted his empty side of the bed then added- Did I ever told you that I use to have a fantasy about the blue avatar guy from the movie?-she was smiling mischievously
-No-he answered while climbing back to bed – But I think I want to hear about it- he kissed her passionately, he was hers and she was his, and they would stay that way forever, well maybe not forever but almost.

-Jarvis, how´s the construction of the Malibu Compound going? Tony asked the AI
-As schedule Sir, it should be ready at the end of the month, just in time for the wedding-
-All the security specifications met?-
-Certainly Sir-Jarvis responded
Both Loki and Tony had worked on the security design of the new compound, no intruder magical or otherwise would be able to trespass their security measures.
It had been designed both as a second Avenger´s Headquarters and the new family dwelling. It extended ten floors under the cliff, all the facilities they would need contemplated: training rooms, medical ward, scientific and research laboratories, even a pool.
They had settled in two small ceremonies one for Diane´s family and a few shield agents that would take place in the new installations and a second one in Asgard for Loki´s parents as Odin and Frigga travelling to Midgard would draw unwanted looks. Only the Avengers team would be present in both ceremonies.
-Steve, can I talk to you?-Diane asked as she knocked in his room
-Of course, come in Diane. –he replied a bit curious – What do you want to talk about?-
-I wanted to ask you something – she said not knowing how to start – I don’t know if Loki ever told you but my parents died in an accident shortly after Samantha was born, I don´t have any brothers nor a close male relative and I feel great respect for you – she was fidgeting her hair nervously- I have always admired you and I would be honor if you … could give me away at the weddings?
-I don´t know what to say Diane- he hadn´t expected that- I would be honor- he replied with a smile
Diane sighed relieved as she smiled him back –Thank you Steve, I´m really grateful you agreed-
-Don´t mention it, I´ll be happy to help you. –Then added -I believe Loki had given you a list of Asgardian traditions that should be followed-
-Yes, most of them refer to the preparation and cleansing rituals that should take place before the weeding, but I also need to procure a sword bearing my family crest-
-Seriously? – He inquired –That´s interesting.-
-Yes, I´m feeling like a fairy-tale princess although I´m not too keen on the sound of cold water plunge after a steam bath during the cleansing rituals.-
-I guess you´re not- he laughed
-I think you´ll have to negotiate the exchange of dowry with Odin, but no worry Tony said he has that part covered-
-Are you happy Diane? – He suddenly asked
-Very, you think it´s weird that I felt in love with him after all the destruction he brought to New York?-
-I think you can´t rule your heart, and I´m glad you found each other, not all of us are that lucky- he confessed
-Maybe you just have to look closer- she replied
-What do you mean?-Steve asked intrigued
-I think a certain spy has an eye for you, why don´t you ask her to go to the wedding as your date?-Diane shamelessly replied
-You mean Natasha? I don´t thinks she looks at me that way- he swiftly answered
-You´ll never know if you don´t try- she told him – You deserve some happiness also-
-Thank you. I´m not sure I´ll follow your advice but I´ll keep it in mind. You know you really make a nice couple-
-I know- she said –Do you want to help me with Loki´s list?-
-Of course what do you need?
-Well the sword with Castle´s Family crest would be great, and you can take Natasha with you- she replied mischievously
-You aren’t letting that go- he said with a grin
-Only if you ask me to. I promise I will behave “father”- she giggled
-Oh, boy! Loki certainly met his fit.-He laughed –
Bruce had become a Deputy Commissioner of Marriage to perform the ceremony after Loki had asked him to, he was sure he would perform his duties with absolute solemnity, at one point he had thought of Tony but quickly discarded him, Tony liked the sound of his voice a little too much.
Thor was of course his best man; Diane´s sister Madeleine the bride´s maid and Samantha the flower girl. The wedding committee was small Madeleine, her husband and Diane´s nephews Leonard and William, some of Diane´s closets friends and of course Nick Fury, Agent Hill, and Agent Coulson. Loki kept being apologetically whenever he was around Agent Coulson; after all killing him was something he could not easily forget. Though they had a rough start when Loki first joined the Avengers it seemed that hostilities had ceased quite a while by now, and it was Agent Coulson who suggested Samantha attended a Shield Educational Facility destined for the sons and daughter of high level operatives next summer, she would be safe there in case other villains had any ideas, though Loki knew it wasn´t very likely not after he had settled scores with Doom. While working in the security measures Tony asked him once –Do you think Doom would try something against you or Diane again?
–I don´t think he would- answering with an almost evil grin
-Why you say that? Oh! What do you do to him?-Tony quickly realized
-You really shouldn´t ask things you really don´t want to know Tony. Let´s just say that he has learned his lesson and won´t try anything like that ever again- Loki replied
-You are right. I really don´t want to know-Tony finally told him-So, what do you think of the security barrier?-
The wedding day had finally arrived
-Are you nervous brother?-Thor asked as Loki finished dressing up
-Not really-he answered –More like excited- He was happy soon he would be Diane´s husband under Earth laws and Samantha would officially become his daughter.
Everything was prepared; all of the guest on their places as the wedding march started playing Loki looked up to the spiral staircase where he knew Diane would make her appearance. His heart skip a beat as he saw her, he had never seen her so beautiful; white flowers braided on her hair that matched her dress. He knew he was very lucky to have found her, of millions of planets and millions of beds; he had to crash on hers.
Banner started to officiate the ceremony -We are gathered here today, on this happy and joyous occasion, to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony.
Marriage is a solemn institution to be held in honor by all, it is the cornerstone of the family and of the community. It requires of those who undertake it a complete and unreserved giving of one’s self. It is not to be entered into lightly, as marriage is a sincere and mutual commitment to love one another. This commitment symbolizes the intimate sharing of two lives and still enhances the individuality of each of you.
Who presents this woman to be married to this man?-
Steve answered -On behalf of all that have gathered here, and of all those not able to be with us today, I do.-
Banner continued-Loki, do you take this woman to be your wedded wife? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness and in health, remaining faithful to her as long as you both shall live?-
-Yes I do- Loki answered looking at Diane´s eyes as he tenderly hold her hand and placed her wedding ring on her finger
-Diane, do you take this man to be your wedded husband? Do you promise to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him in sickness and in health, remaining faithful to him as long as you both shall live?-
-Yes I do-Diane answered smiling as he looked into Loki´s eyes as she placed his wedding ring on his finger
-Both Loki and Diane have some vows of their own which they would like to share- Banner added
Loki started reciting his vows – The feeling hit me the moment we made eye contact. It was so immediate and powerful—far deeper and inexplicably beyond any calculation of time and place. You can’t describe, replicate or force a feeling as such. You just let it flow in and around you. You go where it takes you. I will always walk by your side until all the starts have faded into oblivion.-
It was Diane´s turn to recite her vows to him- I take you to be my partner for life, my lover and my accomplice, you are my true counterpart. I promise above all else to live in truth with you and to communicate fully and fearlessly. I give you my hand and my heart as a sanctuary of warmth and peace and pledge my love, devotion, faith and honor as I join my life to yours.-
Banner ended-Having pledged their love and faith to each other, sealed their vows in the giving and receiving of rings and have expressed their complete and pure dedication to one another then it is by the authority vested in me by the State of California I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride-
As they kissed the whole gathering cheered and applaudedthem, Tony smiled as had a little surprise for them; suddenly fireworks appeared on the sky to everyone´s delight.

As Loki left them a few blocks from where Diane was being held Tony told them his plan.
-Ok guys, we need to keep a low profile it´s imperative Doom doesn´t know we are here until we have rescued Diane-
-Ok- Steve and Clint answered at the same time
-I´ll stay outside and guide you to Diane. Jarvis do you have the blueprints I asked for? – Tony asked the AI
-Yes Sr. I´m combining them with the satellites information, you should have it on your screen in 3 seconds-Jarvis reported
-Marvelous, let’s see. That´s it –As he explained Steve and Clint how to access the building undetected Bruce ended arming the self-destruct device.
-It´s ready- he said as he gave the artifact to Loki, he was looking so worried Banner added- She´s going to be all right Loki. They will rescue her. Everything will work out just fine.-
-I hope so Doc-Loki replied. He wished they hadn´t fight the night before, but he couldn´t do anything to change it. –Will you look after Samantha for me?-
-Of course. – He answered – Me and the other guy, both of us will keep her safe-
-Thank you –Loki replied
-Is everything ready brother?-Thor asked as he walked in the room.
-Yes, Dr. Banner just finished the self-destructive device. Are you ready?-Loki answered as he put his helmet on
-I am- Thor said while upholding Mjolnir
-Then, let´s go- Loki said as he held Thor´s arm and teleported both of them at the coordinates given by Doom.
-I don´t like this-Loki commented-Nowhere to neither hide nor cover. I got to admit Doom really thought this through-
-Ok Tony, we´re in the elevator shaft-Clint reported-Now what?-
You have to go down four levels then it will be a corridor on your left. The last door on your right is where they´re keeping Diane-
-Let´s move, we´re running out of time-Steve reminded them.
The building upstairs was almost abandoned; they expected to find more resistance on the levels beyond.
As Clint peeked into the corridor he reported to Steve, there are some guards at the door where Diane is being held. Any way we can past by them without raising an alarm?-he asked Tony
-Yes- he answered- Get into the first room on your right, it´s empty you´ll have to get into the air conditioner system, I will guide you when you´re in-
-Ready Steve? I´ll go right after you-Clint told him
As they climbed into the air conditioning system Doom´s aircraft arrived at the meeting point.
-Why so sad trickster? You’ll be with your mistress soon provided you brought me my artifact-Doom mocked him
-If you had touched even a hair from her head. – Loki snarled at him
As Doom gloated on his victory Clint and Steve had arrived to the room Diane was locked, having checked no one was inside they got down from the air conditioning system.
Diane heard the noise and turned her head to find Steve indicating her to keep quite. The guards had also heard the noise and got in to investigate what had caused it. Clint disposed of them quickly as he shut the door to avoid more interruptions.
-I´ve never been so happy to see anyone in my life-she admitted to them
-Are you ok Diane?-Steve asked her looking at the bandage on her arm.
-Just cuts and bruised –She answered – Where´s Loki?-
-Keeping Doom busy so we could sneak in to rescue you-Clint answered as he broke the lock on the cage and helped Diane up.
-Can you walk?-Steve asked
-Can you run? Would be more like it-Clint added
-I think so-Diane told them, she was ready to leave.
-Tony, we have Diane, tell Loki he can kick Doom´s as now. We´ll need some help to get out though.- Clint told him
-I´m on my way-
As they opened the door they were met by fire gun shoots, they had been discovered.
-Tony, they made us. We really need some help to get out –Clint told Tony as they barricaded themselves.
-Working on it guys- Tony replied as he fought the doom-bots that had surrounded him
-Loki, Thor; Clint and Steve have Diane but they are cornered in the 4th level, I´m surrounded by doom-bots. We need some help-
Loki looked at Thor distress on his eyes-Go! I´ll deal with Doom-was Thor answer
Loki teleported in a heart beep to Toronto.
-Tony, where are you?-
-On your six pal –was Tony´s answer-We need to take their attention from them, are you ready to kick as?-
-I´ve never been more ready-was Loki´s reply as he blasted an energy beam towards the building entrance-
-That should call their attention-Tony agreed
-Guys “the cavalry” has arrived –he told Clint and Steve –We´ll drive their attention, get out from there-
-I´ll go first-Steve instructed Clint- Stay behind and protect Diane-
-Ok.-Clint answered
Steve climbed into the vent again and got out right behind the guards and took them out. Then opened the door and motioned Clint and Diane to hurry.
As they were running to the elevator they felt an earthquake –It seems they´re having fun up there- Clint jokingly said then called them- Hey Tony, take it easy we´re still down here-
-I´ll remind the angry Norse god about it boys, he´s getting a bit carried away- he squirmed at Loki´s ferocious attack on Dooms minions.
Loki was there, Diane heart jumped, he had come for her.
-We are in the elevator going your way, can you cover us?-Steve asked
-I don´t think that is necessary-Tony reported to Steve as Loki had almost single-handed finished with their enemies.
As they got out of the elevator Diane could see Loki in his armor, he was standing in the middle of a pile of boom-bots.
-Loki- she shouted as she run towards him.
-Diane- he answered as he turned and closed the gap between them.
He held Diane against his chest as repressed tears flowed on both of their faces.
-I feared I would never see you again-Loki confessed
-I´m sorry about last night-Diane cried
-Forget it happen. I´m never going to let you out of my sight ever again-
Then he looked into her eyes while uttering his love for her –I love you, you are the light in my life, I would be lost without you.-
Tears of joy rolled out Diane’s eyes –I love you too-she answered. She had never been happier, he did loved her.
Suddenly Loki dropped to his knee and asked her –Would you marry me?-
-Yes-Diane answered with a smile –Yes I would-
Loki got up and kissed Diane passionately, for a moment there was nothing else in the universe except both them, as he felt Diane wince under his embrace he released his hold on her as he asked with concern- Are you hurt?-
-Nothing to serious, some cuts and bruises- she answered as she nursed her wounded arm
Loki noticed her bandage had begun to show blood stains soaking the white fabric, as he looked at her attentively he also noticed she had sustained a hard blow on her left cheek which had already turned purple. Minor cuts and bruises could be seen across her face and arms.
He cursed Doom mentally –“When I get my hands on him, he´ll be sorry.-“
-This may sting a bit- he warned her as he used his magic to heal her wounds.
-Aww-Diane complained, it did sting luckily it had ended in a few seconds
-Better? – He asked her love reflected in his eyes
-Yes, thank you-she answered with a smile then she kissed him.
-Clint, are you crying? – Tony asked as he stood beside them contemplating the lover’s reunion.
-No, I just got something on my eye-he lied – probably the smoke from all those broken doom-bots.
-Don´t you just love happy endings-Steve asked both of them while he smiled
-I hardly think we are done dealing with Doom- Tony replied –Thor had just informed me he escaped.-
-We can worry about that later- Steve told him feeling satisfied –Let´s leave them enjoy this moment-

Diane was woken up by a sharp pain on her right forearm, she was injured. Her head hurt also from the blow that knocked her out. On her arm a bandage, she had been thrown against her glass coffee table cutting her arm with the shards.
Where was she? She couldn’t stand up, not that she felt strong enough to try at that moment. It wasn´t a cell, more like a cage, she was in a cage. It looked like a supply room, boxes and racks everywhere.
What did they wanted from her? She wasn´t important. She just …. was Loki´s girlfriend. “They must want something from Loki”, bad enough to risking his anger while abducting her. She had fought them but at the end they had overpowered her,
She was alone, how much she regretted their fight. At least she had managed to keep Samantha safe, she wondered if she was ok, if she had found help-
She also wondered if she´d ever see Samantha or Loki again, it hurt her that her last words to him were spoken in anger. “I don´t think they´ll kill me, at least for now, they wouldn´t have cured my wound if they wanted me death” – she reasoned.
It had happened too fast, she didn´t even managed to dial 911. Would Samantha be ok? Would she still be hiding? Who would take care of her? She started to cry then admonished herself –“That´s not going to help at all, you need to stay strong and focus, you need to escape or at least keep yourself alive”-
-Sir, someone is breaking through the firewalls, an encrypted communication- Jarvis warned Tony as an image appeared at the screen, it was Dr. Doom.
-You took something from me and I want it back. I think you would notice the trickster’s lover absence-
-You took Diane, you pathetic second hand wizard-Loki was furious
-Now, now Odin´s son you can have your love pet back in exchange for the item you took from my lab on your little excursion. I´m sending you the coordinates to drop it off, after I´m certain it´s the real item I will tell you where she is.-
The communication ended
-That son of a bitch!-Loki pounded the wall with his fist leaving a dent on it.
-Calm down Loki, Diane need us focused-Steve reminded him
Loki sighed as he defeated bowed his head leaning over the wall he just punched – I know-
-So Doom wants the item we retrieved from his Lab yesterday, do we even know what it is for?-Clint asked
-No, not yet- Bruce answered- I barely started to analyze it- the added – if I had to guess I would say it´s some kind of weapon-
-It must be important if he wants it back so badly-Tony added
-What does it matter?-Loki shouted-He took Diane … If he hurts her I´ll …-
Thor interrupted him-Loki, please calm down. You know we can´t just give the device to him, we´ll rescue Diane…-
It was Thor´s turn to be interrupted –Sir I have a location on Miss Diane-Jarvis informed
-Ok, let´s take a look-Tony replied- It seems that Diane is somewhere in Toronto in the York District, I need the blueprints of Toronto Jarvis-
-Right away Sir, I´m also rerouting the satellites so you can have a visual-
-Perfect Jarvis-
As the AI traced Diane´s GPS the satellite visual pop into the screen zooming into a building located in the industrial area.
-According to the GPS coordinates Miss Diane should be about four levels beyond the structure at the southeast corner- Jarvis reported
-What are we waiting for? Let´s go get her-Loki demanded
-Wait Loki, we need a plan to get her out safely- Steve reminded him.
-Sir, the instructions from Dr. Doom regarding the delivery of the artifact have arrived, he´s asking that Mr. Thor and Mr. Loki deliver the item at some specific coordinates located in the Death Valley Dessert in half an hour, failure to do or someone else’s presence will result on Miss Diane elimination.
Loki paled it wasn´t enough time to rescue her even teleporting and as soon as Doom realized they wouldn´t deliver the artifact Diane would be death.
-All right, we need to move quickly then –Tony explained his plan- Loki, Thor and you will take the artifact to Doom´s meeting point but before you do, you´ll have to take Steve, Clint and I as near as you can to the building where they are holding Diane. Dr. Banner and Natasha will stay and guard the fort as well as Samantha in case Dr. Doom has something else on his sleeve.- then asked –By the way Dr., can you place a remote self-destruction device on the artifact?-
-Yes, I can do that in a few minutes-
-Perfect, in case everything goes wrong we will be able to destroy the device-Tony congratulated Banner -As soon as we´ve rescued Diane we will communicate so you can kick Doom´s but without any concerns-he said as he placed a hand on Loki´s shoulder.
-Now gentleman gear up, teleporting flight to Toronto leaves in 5- Tony joked when nervous.

As Diane woke up she felt sore, all the tension that had built up for the last weeks was gone, she had cried herself to sleep. She felt her eyes dry as there were no more tears on them. The anger was gone replaced with melancholy, there was no one in the house, she was alone.
“I´ve made a mess of everything” – she admonishes herself mentally –“Why? Isn´t it enough he´s still here? Why do I keep worrying about the day after? “- Then answered her own question –
-“Because you didn´t with Edward and he left” she confessed –“But Loki isn´t Edward”-
She sighed at least she was thinking clearly now as if her tears had washed down her fears.
“Why doesn’t he tell me that he loves me? That would be enough”-
She needed someone to talk to, though there weren´t many people that could understand.
-Natasha? – It wasn’t as they were best friends but she had always been nice to her and she might understand.
-Yes. Diane? What´s wrong? – The woman on the other side of the phone asked
-Nothing really, I just needed someone to talk. Are you busy? – She wasn’t entirely sincere.
-No, I´m just unwinding from the mission. What´s on your mind?
-Loki and I had a fight last night, it was my fault. I overreacted. Now I´m feeling anxious he´s still angry-
Natasha reassured her – I wouldn´t worry if I were you, Loki loves you.-
-You think? He has never told me so-Diane admitted
-Really? Well, he isn´t good at expressing his feelings. You know it took him centuries to tell both his parents and Thor about the way he felt.-
-You´re probably right- she sighed
-Are you ok? You sound sad- Natasha asked worryingly
-Yes, I´m just feeling a bit lonely, neither Samantha nor Loki in the house, it feels so quiet.-
-Do you want me to come over? We can get a cup of coffee-
-No, it’s ok. Besides I have to pick up Samantha from school.-
-Ok, how about we get together one of these days? Maybe go shopping?-
-I´d like that-Diane smiled she would really like that
-Call me later then- Natasha replied
-I will- she hanged up the phone as she went to take a shower thinking about their conversation, “She really thinks he loves me? I hope she´s right”.
Meanwhile at the Avenger Tower Loki had finally decided to get up, he hadn´t sleep much and he still felt angry at the events of the night before.
After grabbing something to eat he sat at the sofa and played the movie he had bought.
Tony and Clint went in and sat at the sofa with him.
-What are you seeing?-they asked him
-A movie Diane likes-he replied
-Why?-Tony asked
-So I can figure something out-he replied a bit unsure he could.
-You are looking worried, is everything ok?-Tony asked again
-Not really-he needed some human input into the whole situation, he might as well tell them-Diane and I got into a fight last night.-
-I can´t believe that, you lovebirds fighting? – Tony replied in disbelief
-Yes-Loki sighed –I don´t understand what happen, she was watching this movie when I got to her apartment I thought that If I saw it I might understand something.
They looked at him sympathetically then Clint asked –Do you want us to leave?
-No, stay. Maybe you´ll read something in it I won´t – he stated
-Ok- Tony replied
As the movie ended Loki had already told both of them what had happened the night before.
-I just don´t know what the movie has to do with our fight-Loki confessed
-I´m not sure-Tony replied –Maybe she feels identified with the main character being a single mum like her, but I don’t think that´s it.-
-You men are so stupid- Natasha stated, she had been in the living room for a while now. Loki´s story had filled the gaps Diane had refused to share.
-Where does that come from?-Tony protested
-Because you are over analyzing it. Diane wasn´t neither sad nor angry because she watched the movie, she was watching the movie because she was sad. She could have chosen any other movie and you still would’ve got into a fight.-
Loki remained silent meditating on Natasha´s words.
-Either way, I don´t know why you care, it isn’t like you love her. – Loki was smart but he needed a push in the right direction Natasha thought as she said the words to him.
Loki protested energetically to her comment –But I do love her, she makes me wish I were still human so I could forget about everything but her-
-Did you ever told her that?-Natasha asked as she raised her eyebrows
Loki though about it as he came to the realization that not even when they were in Paris did he actually said it to her –No, I didn’t thought I needed to, I assumed she knew.-
-How? – Natasha was infuriated by his answer –I hardly think she has some psychic powers to read your mind-
As he was scolded by Natasha Loki was able to put everything together “ She doesn´t know, she´s been scared from the beginning , but not about falling in love with me, but at the possibility of losing me” he remembered now, the phrase from the movie that had made her start crying “…loses someone dear”
-I´m so stupid-Loki admonished himself
-Told you-Natasha replied
-I´d better go fix this-Loki stated
-I would bring a very, very, very big gift as a peace offer like … Tony had started suggesting as Loki teleported to Diane´s apartment.
But he wasn’t prepared for what he saw on his arrival, the front door was broken and the apartment was a mess, not a sign from Diane or Samantha at sigh. The glass coffee table that was on the living room was broken, blood dripping from it. He felt his heart sank as he desperately started calling for them.
-Loki? – A small voice answered his call
-Samantha?-he shouted –Where are you?-
-Over here- she replied walking out of her bedroom.
He carried her in his arms as he embraced her, after he made sure she was unharmed he asked her –What happened?-
He could tell she had been crying and she almost started again as she told him – Mum went for me at school, she was so happy to see me. We walked home, a block from here she noticed someone following us. We manage to outrun them in the elevator but I think she knew they wouldn´t stop as soon as we got in she told me to get into the secret hideout Tony made for me, she told me not to get out or make a sound no matter what I heard. Loki I could hear them breaking the door, she was screaming, they took her, why didn´t she hide with me?-she hugged him as she cried.
-“Because she was keeping them away from you”-he thought not having the courage to tell her.
-Samantha, shhh, is ok, don´t cry. We´ll find her I promise –he wasn´t sure he could keep that promise –Let´s get you to somewhere same first-
-You promise you´ll save her?-she asked
-I do- with that he teleported back to the Avengers Tower.
As they teleported in everyone noticed something was terribly wrong, fear reflected in their faces … fear they would never see Diane again.
Natasha took Samantha to her room to comfort her as well as giving them some space to talk.
-What happened?-Tony asked with a worried frown.
Loki told them what Samantha had told him, as he ended he added –there was blood on the floor-pain reflected in his face –I´m afraid that …-he couldn´t end his phrase.
Thor held Loki´s shoulders as he looked into his eyes –Don´t even think that. We´ll get Diane back. She´s smart and strong, she´ll survive this.-
-I just don´t know what I would do without her-Loki confessed as he let Thor embrace him
-Then, we´ll have to make sure you don´t need to find out- Tony told them –Luckily I´m prepared- then added –Jarvis Protocol Mandarin on Diane-
-What´s Protocol Mandarin? Steve asked
-Well, after the Mandarin incident I decided I wasn´t going to let anyone I cared about out of my sight, so I planted GPS chips on all the people I like-Tony replied
-You planted a GPS on my girlfriend?-Loki asked as he broke from Thor´s embrace
-Well, yes-Tony answered –She was a little difficult, but then I finally found a bracelet that resembled you amulet, does she still wears it?-
-Yes, she doesn´t take it off. Thank you- Loki hugged Tony without even thinking about it, he had given him hope.
-It may take a while though; Jarvis needs to align the satellites.-

They had returned from Paris for weeks now and he hadn´t asked her. She tried convincing herself that she didn´t mind that he simply had gotten carried away in the moment. That it was no indication he was leaving, nor that he didn’t loved her although he had never told her he did. She couldn´t shake that nagging feeling that she was losing him which made her angry both at herself and at Loki.
It started with small fights where she would apologize to him for being in a bad mood.
She longed for the days she didn´t needed anyone but herself and her daughter, and tried to calm her heart striving to get that independence back.
One day as Loki was helping Samantha with her homework while she was doing her house choirs they could heard a thump as something had fallen down.-Diane are you ok?-he asked with concern –Mum?-Samantha called.
The answer delayed just a couple of seconds –I´m ok, don’t worry – though her voice reflected something different.
-Stay here Samantha; keep doing your homework while I check on your mum-trying not to show her he was worried.
As he walked into her room he saw Diane was sitting in the floor having fallen down after losing her footing at the stool she used to climb to store things in the top shelves of her closet.
-What happened?-he asked as he extended his hand to help her up
-I fell, isn´t that obvious? – Then added-I was trying to put away some blankets then lost my footing and fell-
-Why didn´t you asked for me to help?-after all he was about nine inches higher than she
-Because I´m quite capable of doing things by myself-she answered angrily
-I didn´t say you weren´t, why are you so angry?-
-I´m sorry, my pride was what most hurt in my fall. I was clumsy, I´m angry at myself for falling down-
She was trying too hard, as days go by she started feeling sadder so when she finally was left on her own, Loki being out on a mission and Samantha sleeping over with Susy she decided to let her heart pour without having to accept the real reason she was sad. She loved the movie, although it always made her cry, and she needed to cry.
She just loved Mamma Mia! It reminded her of herself, she had already started crying as Donna helped her daughter to get dress for the wedding.
Schoolbag in hand, she leaves home in the early morning …Waving goodbye with an absent-minded smile … I watch her go with a surge of that well-known sadness …The feeling that I’m losing her forever …Then when she’s gone there’s that odd melancholy feeling …And a sense of guilt I can’t deny … What happened to the wonderful adventures …The places I had planned for us to go …Well, some of that we did but most we didn’t …Each time I think I’m close to knowing …She keeps on growing …Slipping through my fingers all the time ..
She was surprised by a knock on the door, who could be at this hour? She wiped her tears as she paused the movie, she left the lights off. As she opened her door, she was unpleasantly surprised it was Loki, he had returned earlier from his mission, she was incredibly glad she hadn´t turned the lights on.
-Hi, we finished earlier and I thought of passing by to see you. What are you doing? – Even with the lights off he could tell she had been crying
-I was watching a movie, but you won´t like it, we can search for something else to watch.-she answered hopping he would agree.
-If you like it I could give it a try-he answered.
-It´s a musical, you won´t like it-she tried to convince him
-I´ll give it a try, if I don´t like it we can always see something else-
-Ok. – She said feeling defeated as they sat on the sofa while she pushed the play button on the remote.
She tried desperately not to cry but her heart betrayed her as she heard the song.
The winner takes it all …The loser standing small … Beside the victory …That’s her destiny …I was in your arms …Thinking I belonged there …I figured it made sense …Building me a fence …Building me a home …Thinking I’d be strong there …But I was a fool …Playing by the rules …The gods may throw a dice…Their minds as cold as ice …And someone way down here …Loses someone dear
She silently cried for a while praying Loki wouldn’t notice until she couldn´t quiet her sobbing’s.
-Why are you crying? – Loki asked unaware of what had been on Diane´s mind for the last weeks
-It´s just that this movie always makes me cry-she lied
-Then why do you watch it? I think it´s silly to watch it if it makes you feel so sad- he told her
-So, I´m silly? – Diane asked as she felt all her repressed anger building up
-That´s not what I meant-Loki tried to apologize
-You know what, I don´t want to argue with you right now, please go- she had stand up and was looking furiously angry
Loki did not understand what had happened, he stood up trying to get her to calm but she shoved him away.
-Go, please- she snapped at him tears on her eyes, to his surprise she went ahead an opened her door.
-Why? – He asked
-Because I´m asking you to – she angrily replied
-All right-Loki answered irritated- I don´t know what has come over you tonight. I´ll leave-
As she shut the door she leaned her back into it and slid down to the floor where she shrank into a ball as she started crying again.
-Diane, please. Let me in. We can talk about what´s bothering you-Loki was worried
-No- she shouted-If you dare teleport yourself in I swear I´ll jump off the window- it was an empty threat she knew it, but she hoped he would believe it.
-Ok, have it your way. I´ll leave you alone-Loki didn´t though she would make good on her threat but he wouldn´t risk it, he had never seen her so angry before.
He walked to the Avengers Tower still not understanding what had happened, angry at Diane for not telling him what was wrong. He went through a movie store and almost without thinking it he bought the movie Diane had been watching, maybe if I see it I will understand something he though. He didn´t wanted to see anyone so he teleported back to his room where he toss and toss in his bed trying to figure out what had made Diane so angry until sleep defeated him.

-Aren’t them cute?-Tony asked Steve-Is like having a couple of teens-as they watched them argue as they started a new game.
-They do make a nice couple-Steve replied
-Hey Loki, Tony shouted- When are the two of you tying the knot?-he enjoyed watching Loki squirm
Before Loki could even think of a reply Diane asked Tony- Tony, how´s Pepper? I´ve been thinking on getting together for a cup of coffee and ask her if she´s ever going to make an honest man out of you- she mischievously asked.
Loki covered his mouth trying not to laugh at her response as Tony kept quiet being caught off guard by her.
Clint laughed- You really should marry Diane, her tongue is as sharp as yours-he said to Loki
-You really want to get into it Clint?-Diane answered threateningly.
-Come on-Loki interfered- Stop, you´ll make her angry and then you´ll be sorry. Believe me; my love is not to be played with-
“Did he just call me my love?” Diane became self-absorbed in her thoughts “He never called me “my love” before, not even in private”-A warm feeling crept over her as she could feel herself becoming aroused while looking at Loki though she couldn´t tell what he was talking about any more.
She suddenly kissed Loki then whispered at his ear lust reflected in her voice –I´m ready-
Loki looked at her in disbelief –Now?-
-Well, yes- then added – You want to take a rain check on it?-
-No! – Loki almost creamed as he teleported them away
-What just happened?-Thor asked as they had disappeared as he entered the room
-I think someone´s getting Loki-Clint jokingly answered
-I got no idea what you mean! Is Loki in trouble?-
-Not at all-Tony replied a smirk on his face-How could I say it delicately? Loki is getting lucky-
-You keep talking in riddles-Thor frowned
-Cap, any help? – Tony turned to Steve
-I´d rather not- Steve answered
-Doc?-he pleaded
-Don´t get me into it-Bruce answered
Thor was getting angry as no one would tell him what had made his brother disappear in such a hurry.
Then Tony though of something –Loki is romancing Diane? -He suggested trying not to anger Thor any more.
-Why didn´t just said that?-Thor frown disappeared
-Well, I thought I did –Tony replied with a relief sigh
Loki had teleported them to the top of Eiffel Tower.
-Paris!-Diane stated in surprise
-You always say you wanted to visit- Loki smiled at her
-You are amazing! – She kissed him passionately as he kissed her back she left out a soft moan.
-How about we get accommodated first- he said as he pulled out of her kiss.
-Think it´s a good idea, where to? – She hardly had ended her sentence as Loki had already teleported them to a hotel lobby.
-The Shangri-La Paris- he exclaimed –Fit for a King as it was once the home of Prince Roland Bonaparte
-You been giving this a lot of though, haven´t you? It seems you came prepared-she smiled
-Well, a bit- as she looked at him incredulous he admitted- Ok, a lot, but can you blame me? I´ve had been waiting for you to be ready for quite a while now. Do you like it?-
-Of course I do. It´s majestic. How are we going to pay for it?-Diane asked- We are not going to sneak in, are we?-
-No- he smiled at her about her question, then pulled a credit card from his back pocket.-Tony gave this to me in case of an emergency, and I think this qualifies as one.-
-Give me your best Suite-Loki stated at the desk clerk.
-Certainly Sir, it would be the Shangri-La Suite. It has a private terrace and a magnificent view of the Eiffel Tower.-
-Perfect-Loki replied then added –First we´ll go shopping-
He took Diane to Avenue Montagne and Avenue George V on a shopping spree – I want to take you out to dinner-he told her before going into the first store.
-You are planning to make me wait, aren’t you?-
-Yes- he answered with a mischievous smile as he kissed her with such passion she felt lightheaded.
-Oh, you´re so bad- she protested as she regained her composure.
-Only a bit-he confessed –Come on let´s buy some more clothes –
As they entered their suite Diane couldn´t believe it, it was bigger than her apartment, it had a terrace, and panoramic windows that led to a beautiful sight of the Eiffel Tower as well as the hotel garden´s and the Grand Palais. It also had a living room, a full equipped kitchen and a Jacuzzi. The bathrooms were marble clad. Not even in her wildest dreams she had expected to be in a place such as these.
-Do you like it?-Loki asked surprising her as she had been absorbed admiring their suite.
-Yes, you have really outdone yourself. It´s amazing- she answered with a smile as he put his arms around her and kissed the back of her neck working his way down towards the junction between neck and shoulder, she gasp as the sensation travelled to her spine.
-Now, let´s get dress- he cheerfully said as he suddenly stopped.
-You, teaser- Diane admonished him
-What, can´t you wait until I´m ready?-he smirked as he winked an eye at her
-I could if you just stopped doing that-she frowned
-Ok-he laughed-I won´t tease you any more, for now. Change into that lovely black dress we bought. I want to see you in it.-
As she went into the bedroom to change he did the same choosing a dark navy blue elegant three piece suit, as he looked at himself in the mirror Diane got out and asked him –So, you like it?-she was gorgeous, the dress really framed her body, the cleavage letting him to see only a small portion of her breasts, he could feel himself aroused by the way she looked.
-You are astonishing-he said as he turned away from the mirror and walked towards her
-Thanks-she said as she blushed- You´re looking particularly handsome tonight also.-
He almost decided to skip dinner, well almost. She was beautiful.
-Madam, will you make me the honor?-he made a small bow as he offered his arm to her.
-Certainly monsieur-she answered as she accepted his offer.
They went to the hotel´s restaurant, Diane couldn´t stop gazing at the chandelier –it´s so beautiful, I´d never seen anything like it, not even in photographs-she commented to him.
They were enjoying themselves delighted at each other´s company, they didn´t felt time flying away. As they finished dinner their anticipation grew.
They barely managed to get to their suite, after they started kissing in the elevator. When they finally walked in Loki carried Diane directly to the bedroom as they kept kissing her hand running through his hair.
He lay her down as both of them kicked off their shoes and started kissing again while trying to undress each other.
-Wait, you can´t get it out like that, you have to unzip it-Diane laughed as Loki kept fiddling with her dress.
-Ok, turn around-was Loki swift reply as they sat he unzipped her dress then started to kiss her back causing soft moan sounds from Diane as he reached her neck a particular sensitive spot for her, noticing her reaction Loki bit her softly on the lower part of her neck-Loki-she purred then stand up to let her dress slide down while she turned to face him.
He was mesmerized looking at her body covered only by some green see through fabric undergarment “green, his color” then Diane pushed him down onto the bed after removing his shirt as she started softly blowing at his ear causing Loki to shiver then she nibbled his earlobe for a moment before very slowly, very softly licking his neck towards his shoulder making Loki to let out a moan as she worked her way down his chest.The way her tongue hardly touched his skin caused tingly sensations, he could feel his trousers becoming constrictive as desire built up.
Then as he reached his navel and started unzipping him he rolled on his back pinning her down to the bed as he slid out of his pants and shorts then started undoing the straps of her bra.
He diverted his attention to her navel licking her as he lowered her panties, having slipped them all the way down he opened Diane´s legs and slid his tongue tasting her clit, and she tasted amazing. Diane caught off guard let a loud moan as she felt Loki probing her, she could feel herself aching for him as he suddenly slid a finger in, then two softly massaging looking for a special spot as Diane let a louder moan he knew he had found it.
-Loki-she pleaded, she wanted his member inside of her.
-I told you I wasn´t done teasing you-he answered without stopping-Not yet I´m enjoying making you squirm-he fondle her G spot again more moans and panting followed as he starting fondling her breasts with his free hand then kissed, licked and nibbled. He had started to pull his fingers in and out of her releasing more moans as Diane called his name yearning in her voice –Please Loki-
He could feel her arching her back; she was more than ready, as he was.
He took his fingers out then pushed his throbbing member inside of her.
-Oh, god!-she exclaimed as his member penetrated her.
His eyes finally met hers –Was it worth waiting?- he mischievously asked –Yes- she answered as he slowly started to trust into her, they kissed without reservations realeasing the passion between them.
She claw his back as the rhythm got faster, arching her back as she pushed her hips up to meet him.
He could feel her walls tightening, it felt so good. He delayed his orgasm as long as he could not wanting the moment to end, as he couldn´t hold it any longer he moaned as he climax followed by Diane´s own moan as she reached her peak.
He stayed on top of her catching his breath for a moment while he came, and then slid down at her side.
They were too exhausted and exhilarated to talk, he rested his head on her chest listening to her still fast beating heart as it quiet down he turn to look at her face, she was smiling.
-I never thought that someone could make me feel whole again- she confessed to him
-I guess we complete each other, we fill each other gaps.-
She kissed him softly trying to transmit all of the love she felt for him in a single kiss. Loki closed her eyes; he knew he loved her too.
After a while he added –I´m glad I crashed in to your bedroom-
She laughed although she knew he didn’t meant it that way she couldn´t help herself between giggles she answered- Me too-
Having realized what had caused her so much delight me scolded her – You´re terrible, that´s not what I meant-
-I know, I´m sorry, I just couldn´t help myself-she said as she kept laughing
-You really are proving Clint´s and Tony´s words true, your tongue is becoming as sharp as mine, soon it will be silvering.- He chuckled then though about they both commenting she being the right woman for him, she really was. An idea popped in, he got serious and as he called her name she guessed what was on his mind.
-No, please. Don´t ask now.-
-Why? – He asked
-I would say yes if you ask, but don´t do it know.-
-Why not? – He enquired
-Because I want you to be sure, think about it. If you still want to, you can ask me in a couple of days-
-But why? – He kept asking
She sighed- When Edward left it took me a while to realize that I had fallen out of love with him long before he decided to leave. But I won´t fall out of love with you, I know it, if I loosed you it would break my heart. I just want you to be sure and not just ask me because you got carried away in the moment.-
-All right- he said certain he wouldn´t change his mind then added –Either way we wouldn´t want them to think we are doing it because we have to-
-Is that even possible?-she asked-Well after all we are from different species-
-To tell you the truth I´m not sure, I´ve never heard off a human and a jotun having a baby but you never know. Although I think it’s not very likely to happen-
She felt a bit disappointed not that she wanted a baby right now though it would have been nice to have that possibility.
-Ready for round two?-Loki asked
-All ready? – Diane asked surprised
-Yes, I´m planning on making up for all the time we have lost-
-Oh dear!- she exclaimed the jokingly added as she closed her eyes and sank into bed –I surrender, you can have your way with me- as Loki didn´t move neither responded she open an eye peaking at him. He was smiling delighted as her occurrences.
-Oh woman! You are certainly made after my own heart- then he kissed her.

-No! Loki, you got me killed-Diane pouted- You are ruining my score-
-That´s because you are doing it wrong-Loki answered
-I´m a high level mage, I think I know what I´m doing-
-Well, I´m a mage in real life, and you are doing it wrong-
-You´re so annoying-Diane said as she stuck her tongue at him
-You´re being childish-
-So?-she sulked
-Don´t be angry, come on. We can start a new game-
-Mm, ok-she answered still pouting
They were at the Avenger´s Tower; Samantha was gone for the day as she was staying with her friend Susy at her slumber party.
They had been going out for a couple of weeks now, getting to know each other, as going out usually ended with Loki being recognized and Diane felt too weird at him shifting to conceal himself –I know it’s silly, but I get the annoying feeling I´m cheating on you. I rather date you while you look like you-she confessed to him. They mainly took refuge at the Avenger´s Tower which was big enough to spend some time undisturbed if they wanted to.
They also spent some time at Diane´s apartment both before and after Samantha returned from school. She had been resilient at first, she hadn´t seen her mother with a couple before, at least not that she could remember. But she ended up being thrilled at Loki´s being her mum´s boyfriend, he was fun and they both ended getting along just fine. He loved children and Samantha reminded him of Anya which made him feel in family again.
He´d learn that Samantha´s father had left when she was around three years old leaving Diane to fence for herself, it had been difficult times; learning how to be a single parent and managing to cover all expenses. He hadn´t helped her with any of the expenses over the years as he wasn´t to be found; when he finally reappeared it was only to ask Diane for the divorce. She had been both relieved and angry, she didn´t thought of herself as Edwards´s wife for the longest time and she was glad to be able to close that chapter of her life. Although the divorce agreement took forever. Soon after that Loki had entered their lives.
He was everything her husband hadn´t been, he liked helping her around the house, a line from a movie sounded at her head when she thought about it “I don´t want you to wash the dishes because I´ve asked you to. I want you to wash the dishes because you want to do it” not that she would´ve let Loki wash any of them but the fact that he would volunteer to help instead of being asked to was new to her.
He had been more that understanding when she had to cancel a date due to Samantha getting a cold furthermore he had decided to stay and help keep Samantha in bed telling her stories and performing some magic to distract her while Diane was in the kitchen making chicken soup.
He spent all afternoon with them; he knew taking care of sick children was rather challenging to say the least, they didn´t made very good patients remembering both Anya and Misha´s illnesses.
As Samantha finally fell asleep Diane and Loki sprawled in the couch with a tired sigh
– I don´t know how to thank you-she said first.-
-What for?-he inquired
-For staying to help-she added
-You don´t have to-he replied and told her – I like helping you and I know children can wear you out especially when they´re sick.-
-She reminds you of Anya, doesn´t she?-
-Yes, a bit although Anya is about two years older than she by now-he replied with a smile
-She´s eight, right?-
-Yes, nine within a couple of months.-
-Do you visit them often?-
-Not as much as I´d like to but we keep in touch by email and we speak often through the webcam-
She rested her head in his shoulder as he noticed her body temperature was higher than usual- Do you feel ok? – He asked with a worrying frown
-I think I caught Samantha´s cold-she confessed
-You should be resting-
-You really don´t know other single parents, do you?-
He nodded negatively then answered –No-
-We can´t afford to rest, besides I´m used to. We´d been alone for more than three years now. Beside Fridays when my sister takes care of Samantha allowing me to be in the office all day so I can telework all though the week, it has been only the two of us.
-Not any more-Loki answered as he felt a new admiration for her-Now you have me too-
She looked at him with loving eyes, she could feel her heart pounding at her chest as she answered –I know-
She had started clinging to that thought, that he wouldn´t leave, that he was there to stay although deep down she feared he´d left someday; after all Earth wasn´t even his home planet.

“It´s too fast … I can´t do it …Why not? … You´re being stupid … Relax and Enjoy … I´m not ready … Your body tells otherwise … Three years, no probably more … Too fast … It´s not just me anymore … I can´t … Come on risk it … No …Yes …” Diane´s mind was spinning as Loki kissed her neck softly sending shivers all through her spine.
-Loki, wait! – She had decided.
-Wait? – He gave her an inquiry look – Why?-
-This is happening too fast – he could see distraught in her eyes – Can we slow it down? … Please-
-I don´t understand. Why you hesitate?-he asked feeling angry
-I´m sorry- she said as she lowered her head so he couldn´t see the tears threatening to pour out –I´m not ready yet, I thought I was…And I do want to, but I can´t … I´m sorry –her voice quivered
Loki felt guilty at his anger and tried to get her to look into his eyes by gently pushing her chin up, she closed her eyes and added- I´m being foolish, am I not? Any woman in the planet would be thrilled, but I´m scared- as she opened her eyes he could see she was fighting hard to push down her tears– I feel something for you-she confessed as he bowed her head again – It’s so strong it scares me. I´ve been in love before but this is different, I don´t want to rush into it and there´s Samantha, I got to think about her too. –She paused then added –Why did you notice me? I´m damaged goods.-
“I wasn´t enough to make him stay… Not even for his child …”-she thought although she knew it wasn´t true he had left because he couldn´t deal with the responsibilities of a family but the fact that he decided to leave still hurt her.
Loki´s heart beat faster as he thought–“How could I not notice you?” then answered –It’s ok, I´m damage goods also, we´ll make quite a pair- his remark made Diane smile as she raised her eyes to meet his –Are you angry?-her eyes pleading.
-Not any more –Loki confessed –Although a little disappointed-
-I´m sorry-she bowed her head again
-Stop that-Loki cautioned her as he wrapped her in an embrace –No more tears, ok?-
-Ok-she sighed then asked him –What do we do know?-
-Don´t know, act like a normal couple?-
Diane laughed –I believe that´s not an option, we are way off from being normal-
Her comment made Loki laugh as he responded –We really are quite a pair-
-I know- she giggled.
He loved to see her smile, the way her eyes sparkled; she was as scared as he was who would´ve guess?

It had been a week since they had been at Diane´s apartment and Loki´s mood was getting to the foulest. He had been playing all kind of unpleasant tricks to everyone for a couple of days then he suddenly stopped and set at being gloomy. If it wasn’t an avenger emergency there was no hope of getting him out of his room.
Thor said to his team mates during breakfast –My dear friends, I am concerned about my brother. He is not being himself lately-
-You think? – Tony snarl at him still angry at Loki for messing up with his shampoo dying his hair blue
-We´ve got to admit, he isn´t behaving under “normal” Loki standards- Clint added
-Have to you tried to talk to him? – Steve asked Thor
-I tried, but he does not want to talk about what is troubling him- Thor answered a defeated frown on his face
-I guess I could give it a try-Tony regretfully volunteered-At least I´ll try to get him out of his room-
-I will be most thankful son of Stark –Thor thanked him
As Tony reached Loki´s room he noticed that it looked as if a teenager lived in there. Clothes scattered all over the place including the floor along with empty and half eaten take overs.
A sulking Loki was still sprawled at his bed listening to some music through a set of earphones, the music was too loud, loud enough for Tony to be able to hear it,it was the new album from U2 “The Troubles” not particularly cheerful lyrics.
As Loki noticed Tony he took off his earphones and asked –Is there an emergency?-
-No, there´s none. I just wanted to talk to you-
-I already said I was sorry for dying your hair blue-Loki whined
-That´s not exactly what I want to talk you about, though everyone is concerned about your latest behavior. Are you ok?-
-Yes, why wouldn´t I be?-Loki angrily replied at him
-Well, because you are acting like a lovesick teen-Tony snapped at him realizing he just nit a nerve as he saw the distraught on Loki´s face.
-You got to be kidding me? That´s what´s wrong? You are in love?-Tony asked in disbelief
-I don´t know why it should be of your concern should it be true. And it´s not-Loki snarled at him
-Come on, stop denying it. Thor is worry sick something is terribly wrong with you and it turns out you are simply smitten. But why the bad temper? Shouldn’t you be happy?-
-You would think that-Loki sighed then sat at his bed
-What´s wrong?-Tony sat down beside him.
-Everything- Loki replied with a worried frown-I shouldn´t have fallen in love-
-Come on, it can´t be that bad, so what´s the problem? She doesn´t love you back?-
-No, at least I think she feels the same-
-Then for the love of god, what´s the problem?-
Finally Loki confessed- Thanos-
-What? Why? Isn´t your amulet working? – Tony asked with concern looking at the amulet Loki always wore around his neck
-No, it´s working just fine, it´s just that… –He sighed- I don´t think I …- he stopped for a second then added – I don´t think me being in a relationship is a good idea. It could be dangerous- he stated
-What?But it´s ok for us to be near you? – Tony scolded him
-You are all quite able to defend yourselves. I don´t want to talk about it- Loki pouted
-Because some evil titan wants to see you dead, you´d rather be alone-
-Well, yes- Loki answered
-But we haven´t even heard from him in years now, for all we know he´s across the universe quite busy to remember about you-
-I don´t want to risk it. If something happened I couldn´t live with it- Loki sadly said
-Loki, you´re being utterly stupid- Tony stated
-Thanks for the compliment-Loki answered a bit hurt at Tony´s remark
-I didn´t meant it like that- Tony rectified-You are clearly head over heels about Diane-
-How did you know it´s her? I didn´t told anyone- Loki inquired
-Well, you didn´t had to; we all saw both your faces as she thanked you. She does feels something for you, only God knows why, and you rather drive all of us crazy over the remote possibility Thanos would come back for you.-as Loki kept quiet Tony added-She might be the love of your life and she might not, but you won´t find out unless you risk it. You deserve some happiness after all you´ve been through.-Tony admitted
-You really think so? – Loki asked
-Boy, are you a mess.-Tony stated as he smiled- You are a pain in the ass most of the time but you are our pain in the ass. We care about you, and if you have a chance at being happy I really think you should take it- then as he saw Loki still doubtful added- Come on Loki, grab a pair, saddle the horse and go see your lady-
-What? – Loki asked not understanding more than half of Tony´s last remark.
-I just mean stop sulking and talk to Diane, the world can always end tomorrow, but you still have today-
-Thank you Tony-Loki said then frowned a bit as he nervously told Tony- I might need a little help though- then reluctantly admitted –I have no experience on human courting rituals-
-Don´t worry, you´re talking to the expert, I´ll give you some tips-
-No! Don´t! – Natasha voiced out as the door opened revealing the rest of the team that had been silently listening their conversation.
Loki asked in anger- Why the hell are you all eavesdropping?-
-I´m sorry brother, we were all concerned about you-Thor apologized
-Well, I suppose you would find out sooner or later. –He sighed-Tony isn´t exactly discreet- then added – I´m sorry about all the pranks-
-It´s ok-Steve answered. Love makes us do foolish things. –
Then Clint added -I wouldn´t have though you of all people getting in love at first sight-
-That doesn´t exist –Tony exclaimed
-Well, as a matter of fact, it has been scientifically proven that it does in fact happen-Bruce added
-You are messing with me Bruce- Tony stated
-No, I´m not, using brain scans, researchers from Trinity College Dublin found that different parts of the medial prefrontal cortex, the region that sits near the front of the brain, make snap judgments about physical attraction and whether the person is likely to be a compatible match all within milliseconds of seeing a new face.-
-All right- Tony said disregarding Bruce lecture –About the tip part-
Natasha interrupted him and said to Loki-Just be yourself, don´t worry, you aren’t that bad after one knows you…-
Loki blushed at her compliment.
Clint then asked-I´ve haven´t seen your cape for a while, have you misplaced it? – He ended winking an eye at Loki.
He knew he hadn´t misplaced it, he knew exactly where it was and it seemed Clint had nagged Thor into telling him the story of his crashing at Diane´s.
-No-Loki smiled as he understood Clint´s hint.-I´d better go find it-with that he teleported to Diane´s front door and knocked.
After a few seconds Diane appeared at the door- Loki, hi! – She smiled-I didn´t thought I would see you again-
-Well, I forgot my cape- he told her.
-Yes, of course. I have it right here, come in- she was going towards her closet as Loki stopped her as he hold her hand- and to ask you for a date-he said pulling her close to him.
-What took you so long? – She asked as she looked blissfully into his eyes.
-Well. I’m a little slow sometimes at understanding my feelings- he confessed as he kissed her.