Loki tensed as S.H.I.E.L.D.'s driver pulled up in front of the imposing Stark Tower. His hope that the Avengers wouldn't get involved had slowly dwindled with each mile. While he wasn't thrilled about coming face to face with Tony and Bruce again, he would be glad to get out of the car. He hated them. They made him feel claustrophobic and dizzy from the constant movement.
"Brother, are you alright?" Thor asked from the seat beside him.
Loki turned his head to meet his elder brother's eyes. While they still had their differences and they weren't as close as they used to be, their relationship was much improved.
He nodded, "Of course. Why would you ask?"
Thor grimaced, "They last time you were around these men, it was under less than desirable circumstances."
Now it was Loki's turn to make a face. He remembered being thrown around like a rag-doll by the Hulk. He was left so weak, he could barely crawl and when he did finally find the strength to pull himself up, it was to see the whole Avengers team glaring down at him, daring him to make a move.
"I'm fine." His voice made sharper from old humiliations.
Thor sighed, opened his door before the driver has the chance to do it for him, and climb out. Loki followed suit, and strolled with Thor to the entrance of Stark tower.
"Sir, your guests have arrived." he heard a crisp English voice state when they walked through the unlocked doors. Stark was obviously expecting them.
"Thank you, J.A.R.V.I.S." came the response. Both brothers turned towards the staircase. "Hey, there, Reindeer Games." Loki's eyes narrowed at the old nickname, "I've missed your smiling face." he glowered at the dark-haired man, who simply smirked in response.
"Stark, I would like to thank you for allowing us to stay here."
Stark turned his attention to Thor. "Ah, it's nothing." he stated, waving his hand, "I think of it this way, I have my good deeds for a whole year over with."
"Don't sound so put out Tony." this came from behind Stark, followed by the appearance of Stark's girlfriend, Pepper. The slender strawberry blonde walked to Stark's side.
"Put out? Nah, I'm exicited. I get to live with Jasmine and Rapunzel for the next few weeks." he said, pulling Pepper into his arms.
She frowned at Stark and wrapped her slender arms around Stark's neck, "What am I going to do with you?"
"Well, I know what I would like for you to do with me." Tony mumbled, staring into Pepper's eyes.
She shook her head in exasperated amusement , and leaned in to kiss Stark.
Loki watched them with envy, he missed kissing Jaxon.
When they finally pulled away from each other, Pepper turned her open smile upon Thor. "Thor, how nice to see you again." She said, standing up in tip-toe to kiss the blonde giants cheek, completely ignoring Stark's glare.
"You too, Pepper." Thor responded.
Now, Pepper turned her attention to Loki. "Loki." she coolly greeted.
Loki inclined his head, figuring he deserved her tone.
She looked back to Thor, "Here, let me show you to your rooms."
"Um...Pepper, I don't think that is necessary." Stark protested, "J.A.R.V.I.S. can lead them." He always was the jealous type.
"It's fine." Pepper waved away his concerns, ignoring any other arguments he might have made as she walked out of the foyer, Thor and Loki following closely behind.
