𝕾𝖙𝖚𝖇𝖇𝖔𝖗𝖓 |Thor X Reader|

Twenty-eight

Chapter 28: Loki's Gentle Touch

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the nursery. Madilyn sat in the rocking chair, gently soothing Millie, who was nestled comfortably in her arms. The past few weeks had been a whirlwind, but the routine of caring for Millie was slowly becoming second nature.

Today was a special day-Loki was about to meet Millie for the first time. Madilyn felt a mix of excitement and curiosity. Loki, with his complex past and often unpredictable nature, had always been an enigma. Yet, over the recent months, she had seen a different side of him-a side that was caring, protective, and surprisingly gentle.

A soft knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts. She looked up to see Thor standing there, a hesitant smile on his face.

"Ready?" he asked, stepping into the room.

Madilyn nodded, her heart fluttering with anticipation. "Yes, I think so."

Thor reached out and gently took Millie from her arms. "Come on in, brother," he called out, his voice steady.

Loki entered the room, his usual air of nonchalance replaced with a look of genuine interest. His eyes softened as they landed on the tiny bundle in Thor's arms. Madilyn watched closely, curious to see how Loki would react.

"This is Millie," Thor said, his voice filled with pride and affection.

Loki stepped closer, his gaze fixed on Millie. "May I?" he asked, his voice uncharacteristically gentle.

Thor hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Of course."

Carefully, Loki took Millie into his arms. Madilyn held her breath, watching the scene unfold. Loki cradled the baby with surprising tenderness, his usually guarded expression melting into one of awe.

"Hello, little one," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm your Uncle Loki."

Madilyn's heart warmed at the sight. Loki's demeanor was completely transformed; he looked vulnerable, almost fragile, as he gazed down at Millie. The baby cooed softly, her tiny hand reaching up to grasp Loki's finger.

Thor stood beside them, his eyes shining with emotion. "You're a natural, brother."

Loki glanced up, a rare smile touching his lips. "She's... perfect."

They spent the next hour in the nursery, Loki holding Millie and talking to her in a soft, soothing voice. Madilyn couldn't help but be moved by the sight of Loki's gentleness. It was a side of him she had rarely seen, and it deepened her appreciation for the complex man he was.

As the day wore on, Thor's expression grew more somber. Madilyn knew why-he was scheduled to leave for a mission, and the thought of being away from his family weighed heavily on him.

Later that evening, as they stood by the window, Thor wrapped his arms around Madilyn. "I hate leaving you and Millie," he admitted, his voice thick with emotion.

Madilyn leaned into his embrace, her heart aching at the thought of him leaving. "We'll be fine, Thor. We'll miss you, but we'll be okay."

Thor sighed, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "Loki has promised to look after you both while I'm gone. He'll keep you safe."

Madilyn looked up, her eyes meeting his. "I trust him, Thor. He's changed."

Thor nodded, though his worry was still evident. "I know. But it doesn't make leaving any easier."

The next morning, the team gathered to see Thor off. Millie was still asleep in her crib, blissfully unaware of the goodbyes taking place. Thor kissed her gently on the forehead before turning to Madilyn.

"Take care of our little girl," he said, his voice breaking slightly.

Madilyn nodded, tears brimming in her eyes. "I will. And you take care of yourself. Come back to us soon."

Thor embraced her tightly, then turned to Loki. "Remember your promise."

Loki met his brother's gaze with uncharacteristic seriousness. "I will watch over them, Thor. You have my word."

With one last look at his family, Thor left for his mission, his heart heavy but trusting in his brother's vow.

Over the next few days, Loki proved to be an attentive and caring guardian. He spent hours with Millie, rocking her gently and telling her stories of Asgard. Madilyn watched as a bond formed between them, one that was genuine and filled with affection.

One evening, as the sun set and cast a golden light over the living room, Madilyn found Loki sitting on the couch with Millie in his arms. He was humming a soft lullaby, his eyes closed as he swayed gently.

Madilyn approached quietly, not wanting to disturb the serene moment. "You're really good with her," she said softly.

Loki opened his eyes, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "She's a remarkable child. I see why Thor is so protective."

Madilyn sat down beside him, her heart full. "Thank you, Loki. For everything."

Loki nodded, his gaze returning to Millie. "It's my honor, Madilyn. She's family."

As the days turned into weeks, Loki's presence became a comforting constant. He was always there, ready to help with Millie and to offer a shoulder to lean on. The bond between the three of them grew stronger, and Madilyn found herself relying on Loki's support more than she ever expected.

One night, as she lay in bed with Millie sleeping soundly beside her, Madilyn reflected on how much had changed. Thor's absence was still felt deeply, but knowing that Loki was there, watching over them, brought a sense of peace.

She smiled, thinking of the promise Loki had made to Thor. He had kept his word, and in doing so, had become an integral part of their little family. Madilyn closed her eyes, her heart filled with gratitude and hope for the future.

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