Merciful [A Loki Fanfiction]

Curious Convictions

Merciful

Chapter Five: Curious Convictions

...

Loki and I ended up sleeping in the living room. No, actually, that was incorrect; Loki slept in the living room. I sat perched on the open window sill, simultaneously making sure Loki didn't make a run for it and waiting apprehensively for the return of Jane and Thor.

When the sun had just begun peeping over the horizon, I heard a rustle from outside. Slipping off the sill into my human form, I tiptoed across the room and out the door, meeting the couple outside.

"Hey, Jay!" Jane said, giving me a quick hug.

"Hey," I said, returning the hug. "Hello, Thor."

We shook hands, and Thor looked past me to the rented duplex. "Is Loki in there?"

"He was a minute ago," I muttered.

"And he has behaved since he arrived?"

"You all speak of me like a child," a smooth voice said, exiting the duplex. "I am anything but. Jaida Liao, did you truly believe that I did not notice you awake all night?"

I winced. Truthfully, I hadn't thought of that.

"Hello, Thor," Loki said icily, glaring at his brother. "I thought I was rid of you for a while."

Thor frowned slightly. "I see you are upholding your end of the bargain."

"What bargain? I was under the impression that bargains gave something to both sides. I only see you gaining anything here."

While the two squabbled, Jane and I stood next to each other and watched.

"I don't think Loki sees how much he still cares for Thor," Jane said in a hushed tone. "They act exactly like two siblings, regardless of blood. I don't know of anyone other than siblings who can argue like that."

"Did you have any siblings?" I asked. Jane shook her head.

"No, but I've seen my aunt and father interact. They were almost exactly like this. Ah, without the medieval armor and grudge match stuff."

We watched the two bicker in amusement for a few more minutes before finally intervening.

"Alright, cool it," Jane said, placing a hand on Thor's forearm. His hand was clenched as if he was about to call for Mjolnir.

"Stop fighting and take a breath," I said, stifling a yawn. "It looks like it's about to snow, so let's get inside. And be quiet; Darcy is still sleeping."

"I refuse to stay here," Loki said, glaring at Thor.

"Then why did you agree in the first place?" I countered. "You're the god with the power to transport, so why didn't you just disappear when you realized where we were?"

"I need answers," the god growled. "I am also required to remain with S.H.I.E.L.D. You currently represent S.H.I.E.L.D."

Jane raised an eyebrow. "What kind of answers?"

"Nothing," Thor said quickly, seeming to warn Loki into silence with a look. "Lady Jaida, I have had the honor of sparring with both of your comrades, Natasha and Clint. Perhaps you would do the honor of facing me?"

"Maybe later, Thor," Jane said quickly. "Jaida looks asleep on her feet. Jay, would you like to rest in the guest room? I'm sure Thor and I are capable of handling Loki."

I hesitated slightly, but another yawn rose up, and I nodded in defeat. Yesterday had been a long day, and coupled with last night's stake out, I was exhausted.