Twisted Fate || Loki Odinson

46.

The second I arrive home, I park my truck and practically sprint to the front door, my heart pounding with anticipation. Inside, the rich aroma of cooking fills the air, drawing me toward the kitchen. I find Loki expertly maneuvering around the stove, his sleeves rolled up, revealing strong forearms, and a look of concentration on his face. The sight of him cooking sends a thrill through me, making my heart flutter.

"Something smells amazing," I say, leaning against the doorway, unable to hide the admiration in my voice.

Loki looks up, a pleased smile spreading across his face. "I thought I'd try my hand at preparing a romantic dinner... without magic. I hope you're hungry."

"Starving," I admit, feeling the warmth of his smile seep into me. "I'm just going to take a quick shower and freshen up."

"Take your time," he says, turning back to the stove. "Dinner will be ready when you are."

I head to the bathroom, strip off my work clothes, and step into the shower. The hot water cascades over me and washes away the stress of the day. As I lather up, my thoughts drift to Loki, to the way he looked at me this morning, and to the possibility of our first kiss tonight. My heart races at the thought, excitement swirling inside me.

After my shower, I towel off and pull on a short and sleek, burgundy-colored nightgown with a high slit on the side. I leave my hair down, letting it dry naturally into loose waves. A touch of mascara and a dab of my favorite perfume complete my look. 

Tonight has to be perfect.

I return to the kitchen to find Loki setting the table, candles flickering softly. He looks up as I enter, his eyes raking over me with an intensity that makes my pulse quicken.

"You look beautiful," he says, his voice a low rumble.

"Thank you," I reply, a blush creeping up my cheeks. "This looks incredible."

We sit down to eat, and the meal is perfect-- rich, flavorful, and made with care. His attention to detail is evident in every bite, and it makes me feel cherished. As we finish dessert, I glance at the clock, noting it's almost midnight.

"So, there's a tradition on New Year's Eve," I begin, my heart pounding.

Loki's eyes meet mine, his gaze intense. "There is?"

"Mhm," I hum, exhaling slowly. "People... kiss at midnight to bring good luck for the coming year."

I notice a flicker of understanding pass between us. "Is that so?" he says softly.

I nod, swallowing hard. "Yeah, it's supposed to be... special."

He leans back, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Then perhaps we should honor that tradition," he says, his tone taking on a tender note. "If you would like to."

My breath catches, and I nod, feeling a rush of emotion. "I would."

As the minutes tick down, we move to the couch and watch the countdown on TV. The atmosphere is charged, every second bringing us closer to midnight. My heart races, the anticipation almost unbearable.

Finally, the countdown begins. 

Ten... nine...eight...

The clock strikes midnight and his eyes lock onto mine. "Happy New Year." 

"Happy New Year," I breathe, leaning in. Our lips meet in a kiss that is soft and hesitant at first. His lips are warm, and as the kiss deepens, it becomes everything I hoped for and more-- a perfect blend of passion and tenderness. My fingers thread through his hair, and I feel him pull me closer, his hands gently caressing my back.

When we finally pull apart, we're both breathless, our foreheads resting against each other. "Here's to a new year," he murmurs, his tone filled with promise and something deeper, something unspoken yet understood.

"To new beginnings," I reply, my heart soaring.

But the moment stretches, the air between us thick with desire. The need to be closer and to feel more is overwhelming. Our eyes meet again, and without a word, our lips find each other once more. This time, the kiss is much more intense, a fiery, unrestrained expression of everything we've been holding back. His hands are firm on my waist, pulling me against him, and I respond with equal passion, my fingers gripping his shirt, wanting and needing him closer. 

His grip tightens, and with a swift, fluid motion, he pulls me onto his lap. I straddle him, feeling the heat of his body against mine. The world outside fades away as the kiss deepens, our breaths mingling, hearts pounding in unison. Every touch and every caress feels electric, sending shivers down my spine. His hand slides up my back, tangling in my hair, and I can't help but moan softly into the kiss, the sound spurring him on.

When we finally break apart, we're both breathless. "Cassie," he whispers, his voice a husky rasp. "I..."

"Shh," I hush, placing a finger on his lips. "Let's just... enjoy this moment."

He nods, his eyes dark with emotion and desire. "You have no idea how long I've wanted this."

My lips tug back slightly. "Me too."