Twisted Fate || Loki Odinson

54.

As my eyes flutter open, I squint at the bright light peeking through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. I roll over onto my other side, and my lips tug into a soft smile when I see Loki sleeping soundly next to me. His usually sharp features are softened in repose, and he looks so peaceful. I lean in and press a tender kiss onto his lips, savoring the warmth and softness before rolling out of bed and stepping onto the carpeted floor. Glancing back, I see that he hasn't stirred, so I slide my nightgown off and toss it on top of the rest of my dirty clothes. I browse through the clothes I brought before assembling an outfit and bringing it into the bathroom with me.

In the bathroom, I shut the door and place my clothes on the counter. I walk towards the shower and pull the curtain back, the cool air brushing against my skin. I reach down and turn the faucet on, listening to the water splashing against the tiles. Once the water warms up, I step inside, letting the hot streams relax my muscles and wash away the remnants of sleep.

As I'm running my hands through my hair, a sudden noise startles me, and I hear the door creak open. My brows furrow as I peer past the curtain, catching a glimpse of Loki's bare back facing me as he stands at the counter. His muscles are taut and defined, a testament to his Asgardian strength. "Loki?" I call out, my voice echoing slightly in the small space. "Excuse me, what are you doing in here?"

He glances back at me, his lips curving into a mischievous smile that makes my heart skip a beat. "Well, I thought you might want some company," he says, the playful glint in his gaze unmistakable.

I narrow my eyes slightly, though I can feel a smile tugging at my lips. "And what gave you that impression?"

"Just an assumption, I suppose," he shrugs, his casual demeanor doing little to hide the intensity in his gaze.

"And if I want to shower alone?" I question, trying to sound stern but failing miserably. He turns towards me, and my gaze sweeps over his toned chest, the sight making my breath hitch.

His brows raise in mock surprise. "Do you?"

"I... I suppose it would be best to save water," I shrug, a hint of teasing in my voice.

He chuckles softly, the sound rich and deep. "Of course. We must take care of the planet as best as we can."

"Exactly. I'm glad we agree," I nod before releasing the curtain, taking a step back, and turning towards the showerhead. The curtain slides open again, and I swallow hard as he steps into the shower with me. His presence fills the small space, making the air around us buzz with electricity.

My breathing catches when I feel his hands grip my waist and pull me back against his chest. His skin is warm against mine, and the sensation sends a shiver down my spine. "Do you even realize how beautiful you actually are?" he whispers in my ear, his breath fanning my neck and sending a thrill through me.

I roll my eyes, trying to deflect the compliment even as my heart races. "You're only saying that because I'm naked."

He presses a soft kiss to my shoulder, his lips lingering against my skin. "You are the most beautiful woman I have ever met, with and without clothes on." My face warms at his words as his arms slip around my waist. I lean into his touch as he traces intricate patterns on my stomach with his long fingers, each stroke sending waves of warmth through me. "You know, I really enjoyed our time last night."

I can't help but smile, the memory of our closeness filling me with a deep sense of contentment. "Me too."

"It has been a long time since I have been with anyone in that way," he admits, his voice softer now, tinged with vulnerability.

I scoff lightly, though my heart aches with understanding. "Tell me about it."

"But it was well worth the wait," he comments as his hand trails down, his touch light and teasing. "I have never felt so connected to a person before."