Chapter 21
Chapter 21
When they came back to Asgard, their first way led to Odin. Thor knew they had to make up a story but he decided to just tell the truth as far as possible. When they entered, Odin looked up, his gaze filling with anger when he met Loki.
Odin: "Thor, did you not understand my orders correctly?"
Thor stopped in front of the throne, bowing his head.
Thor: "It's nice to see you too, father. I know your orders but - still we decided to come anyways. Loki and I both miss our home. No one will notice we're a couple, I swear. And if someone does, you can cast us both out."
Odin: "Thor - I don't think this is a wise idea. But as I can't disown my own son - alright. As long as you both don't let anyone see the affection between you, you are allowed to stay. But you will sleep in different rooms and do not do anything that goes among brotherly behaviour. Understood?"
Thor: "Yes. Thank you for your mercy, father."
Thor actually had wanted to go on but as he noticed Loki was beginning to sway slghtly, overwhelmed by exhaustion, he changed his mind.
Thor: "So - are we allowed to go?E"
Odin: "Yes, of course. Tonight there is going to be a feast to welcome you home from your quest. I am expecting you both to participate."
Thor: "Of course, father. Thank you."
He gently took his hand, starting to lead him away.
Odin: "And Thor!"
Thor turned, looking back at him.
Thor: "Yes?"
Odin: "No - Holding - Hands!"
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Thor was standing in front of the door, a little nervous about what to say best. Then he finally decided to knock.
Frigga: "Come in, Thor!"
Thor stepped in, quickly aproaching his mother, who couldn't wait to embrace him lovingly.
Frigga: "My boy is finally back. Everything fine with the other worlds?"
Thor: "Of course. No problems left for now."
Frigga: "How are you? You're nervous, aren't you. Does anything upset you?"
Thor: "No, not really. It's only been - rather exhausting."
Frigga stroke his holden hair, pulling him closer.
Thor: "Now you'll have enough time to recover."
Thor: "Mhm, I'm sure."
Frigga: "What's about your brother? How is Loki?"
Thor(quickly): "Loki is fine as well. Only a little drained of energy."
Frigga: "You think I shall visit him?"
Thor: "Maybe later. Right now he pushes everyone away. You know him."
Frigga smiled mysteriously.
Frigga: "Oh yes, I do."
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In the evening, they entered the dining hall together, Loki by Thor's side. Everyone was already there, waiting for the appearance of thei praised prince. Thor spread smiles wherever he was going, quickly making sure Loki would sit down immediately before going on with greeting his friends. When he approached them, Sif was the first to ste in front to hug him.
Sif: "Thor! Finally! Everything alright?"
Thor: "Of course, Lady Sif. With me as well as with Loki and Midgard."
Volstagg, Farndral and Hogan approached as well, greeting him and confirming their joy to see him. Thor knew Odin expected him to act as if he still was interested in women so Thor turned to Sif again.
Thor: "Would you like to stay with me tonight, Lady Sif?"
He gestured towards the royal table.
Sif: "Yes, of course."
Sif's smile widened, eagerly following him and sitting down next to him. During the entire meal, Thor noticed Loki's jealous glances. He knew Loki would prefer to spend the time with him and so did he. But the thought Loki could think he was flirting with Sif, worried him a lot. And the fact that Sif obviously liked it only deepened his concern. Loki went rather soon, leaving nearly unnoticed - Thor as an exception. He made eye contact seeing Loi was a) to tired to hold up with Thor's flirting any longer and b) obviously ready to go to sleep. Thor knew he couldn't leave immediately after he had. He stayed about half an hour, then excused himself and went to Loki's chamber, making sure he wasn't watched by anyone. He opened the door, careful not to make any noise. Loki was already in bed, cuddled into the soft blankets, his hair an uncombed mess of black curls. He walked over quietly, noticing his love was already asleep. He sat down on the edge of the bed, stroking Loki's hair.
Thor: "Sweet dreams, love. I'll be there to wake you tomorrow."
He put a gentle kiss to Loki's lips, then he looked to Loki's stomach lovingly.
Thor: "And you too, little baby."
Then he stood up, looking at the black-haired beauty once more before laving and going to bed himself. When he closed his eyes, he immediately saw Loki and it nearly felt as if he was sleeping by his side.