*Peers into the room* Helloooooo?

Hi guys *nervous laugh* long time no see?

I'm sorry for not updating in a long while...life sort of just caught up with me and yeaaaaaaaa. I didn't really have time to update but I have been writing the chapter...like...very little at a time.

I hope that you all had a fantastic holiday and new year and thank you Ringed Rose of Lesbos for the most recent review. I hope that this update will make you very happy!

Anyways, I'll stop blathering and let get to the story!

*Hides*

Chapter 22: Reconciliation and Mischief

Wake up…

Smell was the first of five senses Irene was aware of. The smell of pine, fresh grass, and earth. Next was hearing: the sound of water, the wind rustling the branches of the trees, and the chirp of birds. Finally she felt, the ground beneath her was hard and cold but her head rested upon something soft, she opened her mouth and groaned but no sound escaped when she was met with the painful throb from her ankle.

Her eyes fluttered open and she raised her hand to block out the blinding sunlight. Everything was a blur of color. Blues, greens, browns, she squinted her eyes as her vision slowly regained some focus. She could see the mighty branches of the trees above her, the sunlight spilling from between the full green leaves and the vast blue sky above. Cloud formations lazily drifted high above in a slow and elegant fashion.

She stayed there for a moment taking in the dazzling sight before her.

Where am I…?

She grunted mutely as she sat herself up to see that she was in a meadow that was on a gentle slope and interspersed with beech and oak trees, there was a few pine in the distance. Waves of yellow wildflowers cascaded down the grassy slope like so much white water over a rock river bed. On closer inspection Irene could see a few clovers and honey bees who were merrily visiting each flower. It was beautiful. Sitting up fully she glanced around and spotted what was exactly nestled beneath her head. Reaching out she gently grabbed what look like a jacket. She ran her thumbs along the soft black leather, her brow furrowing as she eyed it. She's seen it many times before.

Her eyes widened.

Loki!

She scrambled up to her feet and placed too much weight on her right ankle, she gasped as her leg buckled beneath her. She collapsed, sprawling onto the ground as her eyes watered when her ankle pulsed angrily at her. She sucked in a sharp breath as she pain shot up her leg.

"You shouldn't try and get up yet You're still healing." A voice spoke.

Irene's head shot up. There under the shadows of a massive Oak was Loki, he sat with his back against the trunk. One leg was stretched out and the other was bent so he could casually rest his arm upon it. His green eyes studied her intensely though, taking her in. Her expression melted into one of relief to see her friend. She was quick to brush the tears from her eyes and she sent a shaky, but small smile to him.

He did not return it.

Her heart quavered in her chest painfully. Her hand clenched his jacket tightly as she stared back at him head on, her confusion evident in her brown orbs. But the Prince was stoic as ever, nothing gave him away as he gazed back passively. With a trembling hand Irene traced the side of her face where the imprints of his nails were dug into her flesh, they were but small scabs now but the evidence and the bruises were still there. That was when they really last saw each other aside from the mercenary base where that man took her to.

That's right, he came for her. Saved her.

His eyes flashed, the first reaction she had gotten out of him as she touched her face, and saw a bombardment of emotions that flickered by in seconds. . Guilt, shame, regret…everything else she wasn't able to decipher as his eyes turned to cold emerald stones. She could see the defenses snap back into place but his hands were fisted and his shoulders were tensed. She slowly lowered her hand. She regretted reminding him of that night instantly.

"You have been asleep for the past day. You fell and went down a hillside and injured your ankle during our escape. I brought you here as far as possible so you can rest and so that I can tend to your injury." He sounded so aloof, withdrawn.

Irene shifted, her gaze going to her ankle so that she noticed was bound in place with some cloth.

"We cannot stay for long," he continued, "the sooner we get you back to the Man of Iron the better."

The Prince rose from his place as elegant as ever. He was able to reach her in just a few impressive strides with his long legs. Kneeling next to her, his hands brushed against her injury. She could barely feel him through the fabric but his fingers worked dexterously as he unraveled the cloth exposing her swollen and bruised flesh. "The swelling has gone down significantly, that is a good sign that it's probably sprained and not broken." Irene flinched when his fingers coiled around the damaged joint. She swiftly grabbed his shoulder and squeezed. Loki froze under her touch and they sat there in silence.

She could not read the emotions in his eyes as he turned his gaze upon her.

"If you are worried that I might hurt you again…" He started, unsure, he paused and took a deep breath before continuing. "I swear I won't, I'm only here to help you." His voice was confident once more though she had a feeling that it was not really sincere.

Does he feel so guilty that he's trying to reassure me?

Irene's heart warmed just a little at that, but it ached still to know that he was probably still dealing with the incident in her bedroom that night. She squeezed his shoulder in comfort, a beaming smile gracing her lips as she tried to convey her trust and her forgiveness in her eyes.

'I trust you.' She mouthed.

He seemed taken aback, his eyes wide and his mouth partially open. As if he was not expecting that reaction. He tore his eyes away from her so that he could focus on her throbbing ankle. "Be still, this will be a bit uncomfortable." He ordered, his tone biting.

Irene didn't have much time to think on it when she felt it. Cold. Like ice. She gawked as she watched the Asgardian Prince's pale hand turn into a slight shade of blue. She certainly wasn't expecting his skin to change color. But the slight cold was a welcome relief to the inflamed muscles. She was curious if it was the magic that was changing the color of his skin but it seemed to be tightly controlled and glancing up at the Prince's face clearly stated he was beyond his comfort zone. Loki looked troubled even.

With her free hand she lightly placed it on top of his.

The cold was gone as he ripped his hand away. The blue returning to its normal alabaster tone.

"Don't do that!" He shouted, his once kind eyes were fully jaded. His nostrils flared and his lips pulled back into a snarl. Irene's expression sunk and she visibly wilted. This was exactly like the Loki she had first met. Noting her cowering, Loki took a few shuddering breaths as he reigned in his anger. The change was nearly instant to her. The aloofness once again returning and it was as if he did not yell at her at all. Irene could only watch when he just returned to treating her ankle. She did not move a muscle until he was done and securely wrapped up her ankle again. Snatching his jacket he placed it on the baffled woman's shoulders and slipped her arms through it. Irene blinked, she looked rather dwarfed in his clothing.

"Up." The Prince ordered.

A silent squeal left her lips as Loki pulled her to her feet. He helped her maintain her balance so she didn't fall as she lifted her other leg to avoid irritating her injury, the bottom of the jacket grazed the ground. She held onto his arms tightly, her fingers digging into the fabric of his green tunic. Gently he pried her fingers from his clothes and turned on his heel, his back towards her.

"Climb on."

Irene stared at him dumbstruck as she pressed her hands against his back to keep balanced. The muscles beneath his tunic rippled under her touch. If it affected him somehow, he did not give it away. Lowering himself so that she could get on easily Irene was swift to wrap her arms around his neck and hopped off her one good foot onto his back. His arms looped under her knees in response and stood up to his full height, he bounced her once to adjust his hold on her.

"Since you are now awake. We may leave this place and continue towards the city. While I can use magic to get us there faster...we must wait until he catches up with us."

Irene could only wonder who Loki was referring to. She desired to ask but her hands were occupied in keeping her from falling.

Once they were set, they took off from the beautiful meadow and back into the forest.

Irene looked back once to watch the clearing disappear from her view. Then she took in the towering trees that made them look small. Irene's eyes caught the sight of a few birds up in the branches. The difference between the forest in the morning and the forest at night was truly amazing. She shivered and pressed herself closer to the Asgardian for comfort when she recalled her nasty fall down the hillside.

If Loki was wary or irritated by her pressing herself up against him, he said nothing, and for that she was grateful. There was only so many harsh words she could take from him...

Irene sighed and rested her head right next to his so she could see the trail up ahead. Wisps of Loki's ebony hair tickled her cheek but that didn't bother her. Her amber eyes took in his stoic face and she wished she could talk to him. She opened her mouth to say something, anything. Her lips moved but no sounds came, just air. Her hands fisted. She couldn't talk to him like this. She would have to wait. He paid her little to no heed as they continued their journey.

\oooo/

The sun was close to setting by the time they found a place to rest. Loki had placed her on top of a large rock, perfect for sitting, and told her that he would leave in search of firewood and food. He ordered her not to go anywhere as he disappeared into the trees. Irene had studied her surroundings and found herself not to worried about wild animals and once again took comfort that the Asgardian was nearby. Unfortunately her ankle was still swollen and irritated, she wouldn't be standing anytime soon.

But her injured ankle wasn't at the foremost of her mind.

He was avoiding her. She could somewhat understand his desire for dodging conversation but Irene believed that it was not best to leave what happened unresolved. She traced her face with a finger feeling the small scabs on her face, evidence of when he held her in his hands with unforgiving strength. She only felt a surge of determination within herself, she'll get him to talk to her. He could not avoid her forever. He came for me. She thought to herself. In rescuing her, it had made her believe that he had still cared for her as his friend. She didn't want what ever happened between them that night to ruin their friendship.

Her head snapped to the right when the snap of a twig reached her ears.

The familiar form of Loki came out from the treeline with short wooden tree branches tucked under one arm and held what appeared to be rabbits in his free hand.

'You're back.' she signed.

"I am." he replied dryly.

He looked away from her. Focusing on the task of setting up a fire and preparing them food. Though she was frustrated, Irene watched with rapt attention as the man made quick work of skinning and gutting the rabbits. It was rather morbid but necessary since they had no other source of food. His hands carried out practiced movements and she wondered how long he has been doing things like this in order to get such intimate knowledge of how to do something like skin an animal. During her time with him she had come to realize that Loki had more than a lifetime of experiences and knowledge. He had once told her that his people lived much longer than her own. She wondered if their perception of time was different as well and how old he truly was?

Loki, after being done with the rabbits, proceeded make a...rotisserie? He ended up finding a long stick that seem to suit his needs and placed it next to the fire before making some crud 'y' shaped pillars on each side of the fire pit. Once he was pleased that it would stay he returned to the rabbits and skewered them on the large branch. Irene glanced away briefly, not being able to stomach such a sight. Once he was done he stated that he was going to go wash his hands in a nearby stream and ordered her, again, to not wander off.

She huffed, exasperated.

It's not like I can go anywhere with this ankle, Loki.

She stayed exactly where he left her to begin with. When he returned, and she assumed that this time he was going to stay, he began the task of cooking the rabbits and slowly turning them over. Irene scowled when he still elected to ignore her. Looking on the forest grown she tried to spot something useful. Moving some dried leaves and twigs around she found a small rock jutting from the ground. Perfect. With care she dug it out of the ground, she stole a few glances and it seemed like he was not at all interested in what she was doing. His eyes were firmly planted on the cooking rabbits.

With the small rock now free, she considered the possible consequences for the action she will make as she twisted it between her fingers contemplatively.

She didn't want him to avoid her. If he didn't look at her. How was she able to speak to him then? So then she simply mentally shrugged to herself. To hell with consequences.

So she threw it. Hard. It bounced off his chest harmlessly but the widening of his eyes and the disbelief etched across his face did not escape her notice. His eyes went from the rabbits, to the rock, and finally to her. It felt like forever until his green orbs met her gaze. "Did you just throw a rock at me?" he asked incredulously, a hint of agitation in his tone. She didn't back down as she leveled him with a glare.

'Yes. Yes I did.' She signed.

If looks could kill, she'd be nothing but a smudged bloodstain in the grass. Those eyes could penetrate anything.

"Childish." He hissed angrily. She fought the urge to roll her eyes at him. Certainly he was acting more like the child he claimed her to be. If she was being a child, than he was no better. She wasn't going to let him off the hook now.

'You've been ignoring me.'

The muscles of his jaw twitched. He was fighting something back, but what? The fire in his eyes lessened but he didn't drop his haughty attitude. "No, I've been merely concerning myself with other things. Such as Foster's research. I can't trust that fool to find her way without guidance, of sorts."

'You're lying.' she replied sadly. His brows furrowed and his lips pressed together, forming a tight line. He returned back to the rabbits, not saying anything in return but affirming her statement. She huffed in discontentment, if he didn't look at her then he wouldn't know what she was saying. Her heart gave a painful tug in her chest. She wish she could be heard, just open her mouth and just say what she wanted to say, give him a piece of her mind and a stern talking to. She had thought their friendship meant something to him. Was she wrong? No. She doubt that. Stubborn as the Asgardian Prince was, he seemed sincere once she had seen the small crack in his hard exterior when she took care of him. He had taken care of her, defended her, so she must mean something to him. If she didn't then why would he go through such trouble to save her at all?

It suddenly struck her. The reason why he couldn't hold her gaze. Her hand came up to touch her face. Did Loki feel guilty? Her fingertips brushed against the scabs. Did he wonder if she was angry at him? Or scared? Granted...he did terrify her that night. The near crushing strength of his grip on her face was indescribable. But it was not his full potential. There was more power under that lithe figure than what meets the eye. Irene gave a disgruntled sigh. He was tender with her before that, kind and gentle. She didn't know what to label it. It had happened too fast.

Using her arms to support most of her weight she started to shuffle. Inch by inch she got closer to the campfire. Loki shot her a scowl, a warning. She was wheezing by the time she made it to his side. Unable to ignore her sudden appearance next to him, Loki's lips curled in disdain as he turned to face her, his lips parted to perhaps say some unsavory insult but he froze when she took the opportunity to wrap her arms around his neck and bury her face into the hard leather of his armor. She didn't care if it was uncomfortable, she just wanted to make things right.

Irene tighten her arms, she didn't want to let go.

Please don't push me away. She begged.

Loki went rigid in her hold. His chest was barely moving as he breathed, the only thing assuring her that he still drawn breath was that every few seconds a puff of air would sway the hair on the top of her head. They were like that for several moments, the only thing making noise in the silent woods was the crackling of the fire and the sizzling flesh of the rabbits. The fact that he didn't push her away made hope blossom in her chest. She nuzzled her face into him feeling content and for the first time since being taken from the tower, safe.

So lost in the one sided embrace she couldn't see the look on his face…

\oooo/

Disbelief.

Horror.

Hope.

Guilt.

Want.

Fear.

Happiness…?

Waves of emotions crashed over him, threatening to drown him as the girl held him with a surprising strength. Like he would cast his magic and disappear at any moment. He found the young mortal puzzling. He doubted that he could ever understand her. This strange little thing that held him so tightly.

I can break her hold...I could spin words to bring tears to those eyes, make her hate me.

Loki could do those things easily. A flick of his wrist, make use of his silver tongue, do anything. But yet he didn't. For once in his long life, he didn't know what to do. He wanted to bring her to her home, to where she was safe under the care of the Man of Iron and his lady. Then he was going to end everything that was between them and finally attempt to return home, to Asgard, where he belonged.

He did not belong on Midgard.

He didn't belong with her.

His heart fluttered uncomfortably in his chest when Irene nuzzled her face into the chest-piece of his armor. How could she embrace him so readily after what he did to her? He had lashed out with blind anger that even took him by surprise. Loki had always prided himself in being the most rational out of the company in which he kept. Thor was the one quick to anger, Sif and the Warriors three might have been more cautious than the God of Thunder when it came to facing foes. But he was cunning and could charm his way out of trouble. He always had control. Didn't he? His fall from grace in Asgard should be proof on how quickly one could lose control by doing what he considered a good deed for his people. But with his loss of temper at Stark Tower…

He felt...disgusted with himself that night.

He fled. Too much of a coward to look into her eyes when she reached for him. Never had anything set the God of Mischief running, except for her. The small fragile being before him, who had too much misplaced compassion and forgiveness in her heart for a monster. And...he couldn't fathom his feelings regarding her. She is a friend? Was a friend? Was she only just an ally to him in this damned realm? She truly made him feel like a person of value, someone treasured. She didn't care for his status, his power, his wealth, or his 'race'. She was the unintentional breath of fresh air when it came to the attentions of the courtly nobles of Asgard. She reminded him much of Frigga, who loved and cherished him so. Taking in a bastard son who was not her own to her breast and raised him as best she could with all her love.

Most importantly, Irene didn't treat him as second best.

Loki knew that she would probably never meet Thor, and he was selfishly glad for that. The Golden Prince usually ate up all the attention given to him, he was the fire and everyone around him were the moths. All were attracted to Thor's might and status as heir to the throne and as the perfect Asgardian warrior. Loki was nothing but the shadow cast down by the flame. But Irene always gazed at him with such wonder.

She didn't even fear his magic. Something that was considered strange and feminine among his people. He could recall the moments of pride when he dazzled her with all sorts of low leveled spells. The mundane seemed to please her and she always asked him for more. This curious mortal. The time at her home up in the North were simpler times. Her presence tolerable, and soon, very welcomed. And there were no compromising feelings between the two. He would cast spells, and she would play her music. A magic that was all her own.

He took a deep breath, the smell of wildflowers invading his senses. Something that was distinctly her. Subconsciously that soothed him more than it should have. Still an enigma as ever. Hesitantly he raised his arms, wrapping them slowly around her slight frame.

I should not be doing this…

His eyes fluttered closed as he pressed his face into her hair. His fingers trailed up her back, tangling themselves into her auburn hair. The strands felt like silk as they glided over his hands. Irene flinched under his touch and his ears picked up a sharp intake of air. He froze. He braced himself in case she decided to remove herself from him at any moment. Not that he would blame her.

He...didn't want to frighten her anymore…

At least that is what he thought he wanted. Looking back, he much preferred her admiration and happiness rather than her fear. The looks she gave him and the feelings they invoked were vastly different. And for a moment...he could forget his anger for just a little while. And when she played for him, he felt only peace of mind. She shifted against him, her arms loosening from his neck. Irene sat back, not completely out of his hold but enough so that she could look up at him. She blinked, her doe eyes wide as she studied him intently.

And then she smiled.

Norns, it felt like he got hit in the chest by Mjölnir. She released him fully, her hands signing frantically in her enthusiasm.

'Loki! You're finally looking at me!' She was positively giddy.

"Yes, well...it is hard to not notice you while in such proximity to my person." He responded somewhat dryly. "Or when you throw things at me. A rock? Really?" He found the sudden flush to her cheeks...endearing? Irene pouted much like a child would.

'You were ignoring me. You've left me for weeks, you never said one word to me after that night! You vanished!' Her red cheeks were due to anger, he realized quickly. She was sulking, those big amber eyes shimmering due to the firelight. That glassy sheen...they looked suspiciously like the beginning of tears.

"Irene, I-ow!"

The skin of his cheek was mercilessly being pinched between her thumb and forefinger. She tugged, a scowl marring her features. His head followed along with the movement in hopes of alleviating the slight pain. He was caught off guard by her audacity. If there was one thing he had learned, was that she didn't fear his wrath. No one has been ever bold enough to do such a thing to him. His anger flared for just a split moment before dying down to smoldering embers. He grudgingly felt admiration for the Midgardian. If it was anyone else…

"Unhwand me pwease?" He slurred out, unable to form proper words. His hand grasped her wrist lightly and tugged on it. She seemed to soften at his politeness and let him go. He held back a sigh of relief. He hadn't endured that kind of humiliation since he was a boy. He could almost feel Frigga's fingers tugging his ear when he misbehaved or was caught after an elaborate prank.

Irene remained close, her eyes shining and clearly happy. The uncomfortable tightness in his chest began to ease, his guilt still remaining. 'I missed you.' She signed.

He would never dare to admit that he had missed her as well. The corners of his mouth curled up in a traitorous smile. They just simply looked at the other, the tension slowly easing away like water.

"There you see her

Sitting there across the way

She don't got a lot to say

But there's something about her~."

Loki's smile turned upside down. Irene's expression mirroring his as they stared at the other, puzzled at the sudden notes of song done by a rubbish accent.

"And you don't know why

But you're dying to try

You wanna kiss the girl!"

A sudden burning sensation crawled up from the back of his neck and to the tips of his ears. The idea of simply kissing her set him aflame. This is not a idea he wanted planted in his head. And he an inkling that he knew exactly who it was.

With a snarl and a simply fast reflex he launched a dagger into one of the many bushes around camp and heard a satisfying yelp from his target.

"Ow, ow, ow! Motherfucker! Why do people like throwing sharp objects at me or filling me up with bullets!?"

"It may be that they just simply detest you. I certainly do." Loki grouched. Inwardly he wasn't sure if he was relieved or irritated by the red and black buffoon's interruption. He pulled away from the Midgardian girl as their new acquaintance stepped out from the thicket, dagger protruding from his forehead.

"You know. I always wanted to be a unicorn, but this wasn't how I imagined I would get my horn."

Deadpool unceremoniously reaches up and flicks the handle of the dagger jutting out from his head.

"You would do the creatures a grave injustice."

Deadpool reached and grasped the dagger by the handle and unceremoniously yanked it out with a slight grimace on his surprisingly expressive masked face. "I probably would. Only because I'd be the most prettiest Unicorn of them all, and I would achieve that by killing any unicorn prettier than me."

With a expert flick of the wrist the dagger sailed back to its owner. Loki tilted his head out of the line of fire, his hand snapping up to pluck it from the air. Irene flinched from the sudden action and he found himself absentmindedly rubbing her back soothingly.

"I almost thought you couldn't find us."

The mercenary joined by the fire, sitting himself down in a crossed-legged position. "Almost didn't. You covered your tracks well but left enough for me, the best mercenary for hire, to follow. Pretty impressive for a magician. Do you do birthdays, bar mitzvahs, or whatever Jehovah's witnesses do?"

"Sorcerer." Loki corrected. Not bothering to answer any of the man's absurd questions. What was a bar mitzvah anyways?

Humans were strange creatures.

Deadpool waved his hand in the air. "Sorcerer, smocerer, magician. All of you do the hocus pocus and bibbidi babidi buu shit that magic people do. Oooooh, rabbits! I'm starving."

Without even requesting permission the merc began tearing into one of the cooking rabbits. Lifting his mask to only expose the lower half of his face, he happily stuffed his face and ate with gusto. Loki's nose wrinkled in disgust at the primitive display. He carefully brought out another, cleaner, dagger and proceeded to slice off pieces from the rabbit that has yet to be contaminated by the odd Midgardian man's touch. He offered Irene her share, which she took tentatively and nibbled on it while keeping her eyes focused on the man in front of her.

Loki sliced himself a piece of his prey, and with more finesse than the merc, ate his food delicately. Chewing thoughtfully, he studied him closely.

"Have you thought about my offer?" His voice was slick, almost conniving. A voice he used on many back in Asgard.

"As long as you pay me, we're good. Otherwise, I'm goooonnnaaa kinda have to kill you, take the girl, and see if I can get my old job back."

Loki scoffed, taking another part of the rabbit and offering it to Irene. The young woman hardly moved, she was very much like that Midgardian expression. 'Deer in the headlight'? But he found it amusing that the merc thinks he can kill him. Though, many of his enemies thought that he was an easier target compared to Thor. But they always ended up dying with a blade deep in their gut.

"I assure you, I will follow through with our agreement." Urging Irene to take the meat that he offered, she finally took it and ate it obediently. Once she was done she was quick to sign, tapping his shoulder to get his attention.

'I don't understand. How would you pay him with money that we don't really have?'

Loki's lips pulled back to a nearly malevolent smile. "Worry not. I have my ways."

His words did not put her at ease. Those eyes of hers narrowed at him, but his expression was quick to shift to something more innocent looking. More mischievous. "I thought you trusted me."

Her cheeks flared red, brows knitting together as she hastily signed a frantic, 'I do!'

"Okay what's up with the jazz hands again? Is it how she expresses her deepest emotions that only those who love jazz can understand? Or is the gerbil in her brain not running at full speed? Cause I can relate to that last one, mines named Hamtaro and he's a fat lazy son of a bitch...but I love him." Deadpool leaned back, one hand supporting him while the other rubbed his stomach.

"I'm afraid I do not understand what you are implying. But if you are insinuating her intelligence, then no, she is rather knowledgeable. Perhaps even more than you. I've mentioned recently before during our first encounter, she is mute and lacks the ability to speak. She signs with her hands in order to communicate." Loki's explanation was short and straight to the point. He was nearly bristling from what he perceived as an insult to the girl next to him. Midgardian or not, he held her to a higher standard than the rest of her ilk.

"Did you say that? Stab wounds to the head mess with my memory somewhat...I'm pretty sure I forgot something else but it can't be that important, like calculus. So if she talks with her hands, how am I supposed to understand her? Since you know...it's kinda an important part of this job you gave me? I can't read minds, if I did, I would be bald and in a wheelchair teaching under-aged children how to use their powers for violence." Deadpool scratched his cheek, his head tilting to the side.

"As far as I'm concerned, you would be working with me instead of communicating with Irene. I don't see how you learning to communicate with her is of any importance. I learned from books, I doubt you could do the same, but it is an effective way of learning if you encounter someone with the same predicament." Not that he wanted to enable the mercenary to talk to Irene.

"Hey I take offense to that! I may not know what A squared plus B squared equals, but I can at least read circles around a 9th grader."

A strangled snort came from next to him. Loki peered down at Irene, her lips were pulled up in a smile. When she realized she attracted their attention she lifted her small hand to cover her mouth. But the laughter was clear in her eyes.

"Oooooh, looks like little Miss. Reenie can laugh after all!" The merc crowed gleefully, leaning forward. His disfigured lips turned up as well. "So, how about it? Show me the ways of the Jazz hands, get me the money for unlimited tacos, and I'll be sure not to kidnap ya."

"Just the money." Loki quipped. "Learning sign was not part of the original bargain."

Deadpool waived his hand dramatically, dismissive. "Shhhhhhh! Sh! Sh! Shhhhhhhhh! I wasn't talking to you, Katy. I was talking to Reenie. Besides, terms always change. Why not let her decide? She's in on it." he pointed out. He covered his mouth, leaning towards him coyly. The man's eyes fluttered, "You can say she's our beautiful accomplice."

Loki bristled, ready to lash out at the disrespectful cur. His hand was already inching for his dagger. Even if he can't kill him, he could at least cause a little pain.

His attention was stolen by the soft jab to his side.

'I don't see the reason why I can't teach him.' Irene signed. 'I never encountered anyone willing so far. Or many people in general...'

"You must be jesting." Loki grumbled. His urge to stab the wretch was still rather high.

'Sometimes. But not this time. While I may not be very helpful, I can at least help you with this. You've done this for me after all...making a deal in order to save me. Can I please do this one thing, Loki? I promise I won't compromise anything and allow you to take over the rest of the plan you came up with!' She clasped her hands together, her head bowing. Begging for permission.

His vexation melted away...just like that. It seemed like she still had the desire to be useful to him. Even after everything that happened between them all those weeks ago.

The God of Mischief, the Trickster, the adopted second son of Odin, son of Laufey, and the King of Asgard, simply caved. Just by looking into her shimmering eyes.

"Fine." He grounded out, his teeth gnashing together. Oh, how she simply brightened. She bounced excitedly, her arms once again curling around his neck as she pulled him into her embrace once more. He huffed, his hand coming up and pulling the ecstatic girl off him with slight reluctance.

"This is cute an all. But I still don't understand what this mumbo jumbo is about! I feel like the third wheel, man!" The merc whined.

Loki couldn't stop himself from rolling his eyes, "She says that she is willing to educate you in the ways of her language."

"Great! No time like the present!" Springing into action, the merc rushed to Irene's other side. Grasping her hand and hoisting her up, he dragged her across the camp. Hand on her hip as he pressed her flushed against his side to avoid injuring her ankle as he supported most her wake. Irene letting out a startled, noiseless, squeak.

The Trickster's eyes narrowed into slits. He watched from his place by the fire as the merc sat her down on the rock he had originally placed her on and sat down cross-legged before her, his hands on his knees and his back straight. "Alright, teach me the ways of the Jazz-hands, Reenie." He demanded.

And so their evening went by as he observed the Midgardian girl teach the Mercenary to sign. Despite being a giant fool, the man was an attentive, if not eager student. He copied her hands, speaking when he signed, and was pleased when he received praise from the girl.

Loki, who had taken refuge under a tree near the fire, clenched his hands. He found that he did not like Irene giving her smiles at the Midgardian male. His stomached churned, and in his chest formed a familiar feeling that he loathed.

Envy...

Something that led to his downfall. He took a deep breath through his nose when he watched Irene touch the merc's hands in order to help him form the correct signs and movements. Something like this should mean nothing to a man of power like him.

Yet it did.

Was this what it felt like to be subdued and bewitched by a mortal woman of this world? Had a smile from Jane Foster ensnare Thor so profoundly that his arrogance and lust for battle was tempered to the unrecognizable version of who was once his brother? Their last confrontation on the Bifrost. Thor's reluctance to battle with him. He was only exposed to Foster's influence for just a few days.

He had been in Irene's presence for twice as long. So what would that mean for him?

The pressure in his chest lessened when her eyes turned to him. All the smiles she she gave to the merc could never outshine the radiance she bestowed upon him.

It seemed...he was already trapped.

His fingers uncurled and his body relaxed.

For once...he was content with the lot life casted him.

So long as she was there...

\oooo/

Irene didn't think she would be back in Canada anytime soon. she couldn't help but gawking at the large buildings that looked both old and modern. After a day or two in the woods of Upstate New York, Loki finally moved his plans into motion.

Except for the part that she was tagging along.

He was very against it at first. Reminding her of an angry cat that was hissing and spitting at everything he disliked, fully believing she would be better off back with Tony and Pepper at Stark Tower.

Unfortunately for him, she founded an unexpected ally in Deadpool. Who advocated on her behalf, which led to a fight that she had to break up.

In the end they managed to convince him.

Only if she agreed for him to keep a glamour on her at all times so she could not be recognized. Loki had expressed that he had no doubt that her father's men were still on the lookout for her, but S.H.I.E.L.D. as well with Tony most likely spearheading the search.

She felt a twinge of guilt when she thought of him. She prayed that he wasn't too worried.

Once their business was concluded. Their reunion would be on the horizon. Delivered back by Deadpool himself, since he was the last person she was seen with. It would only make sense if he gave her back.

"Reenie, you can sight-see another time. We got things to do, like getting my money for the lifelong dream of an endless supply of tacos."

Irene blinked and then signed a quick apology.

Deadpool shrugged. "I don't see why anyone would be so worked up by Ottawa."

'I've never seen it. I knew my father worked here...but...'

The merc's hand rested itself on the middle of her back to lead her on. "It's just a city. Once you've seen one, you've seen all. Now come on. We shouldn't leave Mr. Hocus Pocus waiting, he might end up stabbing me again or have an aneurysm." Deadpool scratched his forehead.

She bowed her head and allowed him to lead her on. It wasn't long until they've reached their destination. The Royal Bank of Canada. Specifically the one that her father frequented since it was so close to the House of Parliament according to Loki's intel. She looked up at the signs of the street signs that made up the intersection. Metcalfe and Sparks street. Loki was nearly pacing by the shadows provided by the building before he spotted them.

"At last! When you mentioned procuring food, I didn't expect you to take nearly two hours!" He growled, his voice full of accusation. Mostly directed at the merc.

Deadpool simply gave what she assumed was a lopsided smile beneath his mask and patted his slightly bulging stomach. "I'm a growing boy who needs to eat! I can't go on a mission and starve, how would I get anything done?"

"I said to watch her while I performed some reconnaissance and intelligence gathering. Hardly anything that would force you to increase your meagre calorie intake." He turned his attention to her, his eyes raking her form. She did not know what he was exactly looking for, but once he was done, he seemed pleased. His shoulders seem to lower as he relaxed.

"No matter, we have things to do. And I am sure you would like your payment."

"Damn straight I do."

They all nodded to each other. Their expressions taking on a look of seriousness, except the merc who remained rather nonchalant.

"So the plan to require the large sum of money is to go into the bank myself, posing as Mr. Hawkins." Loki's green eyes turned to the merc. "You will be with Irene, both of you serving as look out." The Asgardian prince flicked out his hand a pouch appeared out of thin air. Snatching it, he handed it over to Irene. "If you encounter any trouble, simply take some of the powder from the bag and throw it at your opponent's face. It has very potent sleeping affects, so when you use it...be sure not to breathe it in."

Irene nodded her head in understanding, she tucked the pouch away in one of her pockets.

"Good. And be sure to send me a warning through your necklace if you require assistance or if Hawkins appear."

Again she nodded, her lips turning up into a smile.

Once the plan was laid out, Loki wasted no time in changing his appearance. She found it disturbing with just how much he looked like her father, she could barely find a flaw in his disguise.

"What are you going to do about identification?" The merc asked.

The mischievous smile which broke out on her 'father's' face was rather unnerving. Loki plucked something out from within his coat pocket and held up a wallet.

"I may have seized Mr. Hawkins' property while scouting his office. Once our business is concluded, I will be returning it."

Deadpool cackled, "Oh! That's good!"

Ready to go there separate ways, Loki gave her a playful wink as he stalked off towards the bank with a confidant gait. She stared until she was no longer able to see him. Once more the merc spirited her away. Having them settle on a nearby rooftop.

She remained quiet in their time together, idly running her fingers along the smooth gold of her pendant, content to listen to the merc chatter about anything that came to his mind. Now and then her thoughts strayed to Loki.

That man (God?) was a puzzle. He could be as warm as the sun and then be cold and distant as the moon in mere seconds. His actions at times confused her. The intensity of his gaze when he thought she wasn't looking. Tender words and touches. Scornful rage that stemmed from a place she could not see. Was his harsh words and punishing grasp a remnant of his anger towards Thor?

If that was the case, what did it have to do with her?

For weeks she mulled over his words that he shouted at her face whilst losing herself in her composition.

"What did you do to me!? What horrid curse did you cast upon me? What do you hope to gain!? Why? Why do you fill my head with such nonsense? Why is it, when I close my eyes, that I find you there haunting me?"

His eyes were a dagger in her ribs that night, the sharp point digging deeper. Where there had been tenderness was an emptiness, but not in any vulnerable sense as before. Uncomfortable with the void, he had filled it with an emotion he was more at ease with - raw anger. The unmoving gaze was accompanied by deliberate slow breathing, like he was fighting something back and loosing. That he could have done something much worse than simply having her in a harsh grip.

"I REFUSE TO BE ANYTHING LIKE THOR!"

The sunlight glinted off the emerald eyes of the snake as she twirled her necklace.

I wonder...what did Thor do to earn Loki's ire? To refuse to be anything like him...stealing the throne aside.

What else did the god do? She didn't have time to further contemplate when Deadpool signalled that Loki was out. Peering over the ridge of the roof she watched as the disguised god shook hands with someone who was most likely the branch owner of the bank. They exchanged a few words before going their separate ways, Loki flanked by men in dark suits.

"I don't recall him inviting his friends over! Why wasn't I invited!? We've been friends for like...less than 72 hours and he does this to me!" Deadpool demanded, sounding hurt. Irene didn't have time to reply when she was suddenly being spirited away once again by the man.

They followed the God of Mischief for several blocks. The men that accompanied him dissipated into green smoke. The visage of her father melted away, leaving Loki to stand in his place. He pivoted on his feet, emerald eyes landing on her.

Loki was trying to look serious, but even so, he was smiling at the corners of his mouth. It was not a reassuring smile. Such a smile meant that someone was going to be a victim of one of his many elaborate pranks. To be the target of his mischief-making could only spell out certain doom. And it seemed the victim this time was her father.

'How did it go?' she dared to ask, anxious.

Loki dug his fingers into one of his many hidden pockets and produced a white slip of paper. He handed it to the merc who accepted it.

"I hope that you find the sum acceptable."

Deadpool let out a low whistle, looking rather impressed. "This is even more than what that guy promised! You're not shabby, Katy!"

Irene could have sworn she saw the corner of Loki's eye twitch. A pleasant smile formed on his face, his hands behind back. "Then it would be safe to assume that our end of the deal has been made. I do hope that you intend to keep your word." She shivered, picking up the dark meaning in his words.

Deadpool stashed the paper in one of the pouches attached to his belt.

"Duh~! I always keep my promise to ladies! Reenie will be back home lickety-split." Deadpool clapped his hands, rubbing them together. "All we need now is to 'borrow' someone car for the ride back to that big ol' apple!"

Irene covered her mouth. He just insinuated that Loki was a lady. Her eyes watered as she suppressed her laughter, the look on his face was nearly priceless. How she wished she had one of those cameras!

"Then let us proceed. I can't bare to suffer you any longer."

Loki was at her side in a few short strides, his hand resting on the small of her back as he led her away. Deadpool following hot on her heels as they bickered.

A silent chuckle finally broke free.

It would be nice to be home soon...

\oooo/

He searched and he searched for what seemed like years.

Everyday he felt more exhausted, more angry that he didn't do more. That he wasn't there when he was needed.

Some God damned hero he was if he couldn't protect one person in his own home.

"Tony...?"

Tony Stark sighed softly, setting down his glass of brandy on his desk. His brown eyes landed on Pepper who was hovering near the doorway. Her blue eyes stood out more prominently thanks to the dark bags under her eyes, a matching set to his own. She had been leading a search with local authorities for some time, and with no luck.

Much like him and S.H.I.E.L.D.

They had lost track of Irene and her kidnapper not long after they had left the city limits. Fury was in...well...a fury when he heard the news. It was true that she was entrusted to him, but ultimately, she was under the organizations protection. Coulson flew between New York and god knows where to help with the search efforts.

All they knew was that the man who had took Irene from her room was none other than a mercenary with extremely questionable morals.

Deadpool.

The merc services were not considered cheap. By all means it was obvious who the culprit was. But if Irene was far north across the border than there was little they could do to help. They could not simply demand that they hand her back.

No...

They could not enforce that.

He rubbed his eyes tiredly, already feeling a headache coming on.

"What is it, Pep?" He sighed.

Pepper entered his office, her hands fidgeting as she looked for something to do. She opted for cleaning up some of the papers that been scattered about hazardously throughout the week, a habit she did when she was stressed.

"There is food ready, you haven't been eating so..." She trailed off.

They both remained in silence for what seemed like forever.

"Have you...?" She started.

"No." He responded flatly. Draining the rest of his drink, he set the empty glass aside and stood. Running a hand through his greasy hair he beckoned her to follow as they went out to the living room of their home. It seemed a bit more dull without the young girl around...no music, no occasional paint brush left out...

"They went north. Their last location being Albany. Fury had send agents to look into the surrounding areas but that bastard knows how to cover his tracks to prevent us from following. For all we know, Irene could be back with her father."

"What do you think he would do to her...once she's back?" Pepper asked, worry creasing her brow.

Tony's hands curled into fists. That was one thing he couldn't imagine without feeling guilt. Irene was a good kid who didn't need to suffer needlessly. And he would never be able to stand in the same room as her father and hold back the urge to deck the man in his face.

"Probably hide her again. He does have the reputation of his other child to keep." He sneered.

Pepper's hands covered his own, her thumbs running over his knuckles.

"There can still be time left. We just need to keep looking."

Tony's shoulders slumped, a vulnerability he only ever made known to her appearing as his defenses lowered. With tenderness he pressed his lips to her forehead, grateful for her unending support. For dealing with all his bullshit and for running his company while he did other things.

He honestly didn't deserve her.

"I hope so. It would be a miracle if she came back." He murmured, his voice a bit muffled.

Pepper's hands squeeze his own lightly.

*Peeks around the corner and blushes*

So...um...I hope you guys like it!

I feel a bit rusty, but I did my best to pour my heart out into the chapter!

And...I look forward to any reviews!

Byyyyyyyye!

*Runs off*