The Sorcerer's Apprentice {Stephen Strange}

Thirty-Two

Cymbaline by Pink Floyd

Realizing that there is too much weighing on her mind, Emerson decides to take a break before heading back to the sanctum. There are a million things coursing through her mind: the lying and betrayal, but also the occurrence with the god of mischief.

The guilt is never-ending. Emerson has betrayed Stephen and knows full well he'll be hurt. The talk is not something she's looking forward to. What if he makes her leave- banishes her? Or even worse he ends up hating her. Fuck, she could never bear the feeling of him hating her. They've become so close, forming an odd sort of relationship, and it is not something Emerson could afford to lose. As much as she hates to admit it, she needs him. He's played such a large role in her life-- losing him would be absolutely horrid. The apprentice has grown undoubtedly attached to the Sorcerer Supreme. Strange is an amazing, thoughtful man and Emerson just continues to lie to him. She needs to tell him soon, tonight even. Hopefully, he isn't too busy or distracted and has time to have a conversation. How would she even begin to bring it up? There couldn't be anything to soften the blow.

And Loki... Don't even get her started. The God of Mischief is a fitting title for that man. It's so frustrating trying to deal with him. Sure, he helped the sergeant out, but is spying on Strange really necessary? Maybe she could work something out with Strange and give Loki just a bit of information. It was so odd of him to help a random woman who practically begged for his assistance. Of course, there was a motive-- he needed something as well.

Emerson makes her way to the ice cream shop down the street, hungry for something refreshing. A nice, cold, ice cream cone sounds amazing right now. Emerson pushes herself through the door before getting in line and ordering two. One for Strange and one for herself. After getting her order and leaving the shop with her ice cream, Emerson decides she'll make her own way to the sanctum rather than using the sling ring. Enjoying the brisk air and natural sounds may help her clear her mind to think.

The way back was somewhat long. Emerson had stopped to chat with a lady who was walking her dog. The woman needed directions which is something Emerson couldn't help with much considering she isn't from the area. Instead, the sergeant pulled out her phone and showed her the directions to where she was going. After that encounter, she made her way back to the sanctum, scared as hell to talk with Strange. By the time she arrived, the sun had set and the moon shined through the clouds.

Emerson is greeted at the door when Strange opens it for her. "You're back sooner than I expected," Strange comments, taking in Emerson's disheveled appearance. "Are you okay?"

"Oh, yeah," Emerson lies right through her teeth before showing him the ice cream. "I decided to pick up some ice cream on my way back."

"Mint chip, my favorite." Strange takes the ice cream from my hand before helping me get out of my coat. The cloak swoops in to pick me up out of my wheelchair. Strange takes a seat on the couch in the living room area. "How was your date?"

"It wasn't really a date. I- Well, I just had to figure some stuff out," Emerson spews out quickly before stuffing her face with ice cream before she can talk anymore. She avoids eye contact with Strange, something that he grows suspicious of.

"Mmm, is this the ice cream from the place down the street?" Strange asks while taking a spoonful. Emerson lets out a lighthearted laugh which helps ease the tension. He still glances at her cautiously, wondering what's going on with her.

"Sure is. Best ice cream I've ever had. Never disappoints," Emerson mutters, forcing a smile to her face. Fuck, should she tell him now? Is this a good time? Anxiety courses through her, making her hands tremble. She begins to sweat and her breathing becomes more intense. Every movement she makes, she is hyper-aware of.