Untitled

The door fell gently into its hinges behind you; bag hitting the floor. You had finished your work in the laboratories earlier today - leaving Banner to it. Not that he had something against it.

The reason?

You just couldn't concentrate and set your focus right. There was this... nagging thought in the back of your mind, demanding attention. And the worst of it all? It was actually ridiculous. Not even something of high importance. Just a quite... tempting one. A question demanding to get asked - and the person who could give you an answer was who you immediately looked for.

"Lokes?"

Namely, your boyfriend, Loki. Avenger, God of Mischief, Prince of Asgard - and the man you chose to spend your life with.

"Outside, darling!" Came the answer back promptly. Following his deep timbre, you made your way through the living room and stepped through the French doors out on the balcony. The sight? Beautiful. And you weren't just talking about New York City to your feet of the Avengers compound, no...

Loki was enjoying this relatively warm day in late Summer on his day off sunbathing half naked - only in black speedos, sunglasses and an emerald green satin robe, on the sun bed; raven locks spread out like a halo.

Loki being Loki, you thought; biting your lip. Like mentioned before. The view was delicious. Sweaty, pristine alabaster skin and muscles.

"You're home early, my love," the God remarked; taking off his sunglasses to be able to look into your eyes properly - being the gentleman he had been raised to be.

You gave him a short nod and bent down. Getting the hint, of course, Loki met you halfway for a kiss. "Yeah... Couldn't focus - which isn't beneficial at work. Especially not when working in a laboratory." "Quite right," he said; smooth, delicate fingers reaching for yours. "Everything alright, Y/N?" You nodded once more. "Of course. I just... have something on my mind and I gotta ask you. It couldn't wait until tonight."

"Is that so?" A small, mischievous smile darted across the God's face. "You're stroking my ego, darling." You couldn't help but giggle at his words; rolling your eyes and shaking your head.

"So? What is the question? You got me all curious." "Well," you started and moved to sit down on his lap. It was a little awkward due to the surface Loki laid on, but manageable. "It's about... sexy time."

One of the God's eyebrows quirked up and a wolfish grin spread over his lips. "You have my full attention, darling. Speak your mind," your partner said; hands gripping your hips and thumbs stroking the clothed fabric in a reassuring, caring way. He clearly enjoyed your decision of sitting down on his lap. "Okay, so... You once said you are open to share me with another man - as long as it isn't your brother or an Avenger, correct?" Loki nodded in confirmation. "I did say that, yes. Who is it you have on your mind to join us in the bedroom? I'm sensing you wish to ask me for my consent of another pleasuring adventure in a threesome."

You nodded; blushing a little. "Yeah, I do." Loki raised another eyebrow. "You're stalling, my love. I can feel your uncertainty and nervousness. Who is it. Spill." "Okay, okay," you answered; biting your lip for a long moment and then...

"Daryl."

Loki blinked. Once. Twice.

"Daryl?"

You nodded; lip tucked between your teeth once more. "You know who I mean, right? Daryl Dixon - one of our mechanics. He works here at least three times a week and-" Loki held up a hand; gently interrupting you. "Yes, yes, Dixon. I know who we are talking about." You swallowed; letting a moment of silence pass.

"So? What do you say?" You questioned your boyfriend then; giving him a rather uptight smile.

See, you were quite a little nervous about his reaction, since you knew that he wasn't quite... best friend's with the mechanic. Rather the opposite. They didn't have that much to do with each other but when they did... It always led to small - admittedly ridiculous conflicts and unnecessary teasing from both sides. Their ways of seeing the world was just... different. And it had taken the God a good while to come around the fact that you and Daryl were friends. Deep down, though, you knew that they actually held a lot of respect for each other.

Loki didn't need words to signal you that he wasn't amused about this idea. The look in his eyes and on his face told you everything. "He's not an Avenger, babe..." You reminded him; trying to... sway him? "Thank the Norns, he's not," Loki stated gruffly with his arms now crossed over his chest. "But he's a wild, brutish barbarian, darling."

You inhaled deeply. This was what you had prepared for. Here we go...

"And the mere thought of those rough, calloused hands touching you - my delicate, graceful and precious queen?" Loki exclaimed - way more dramatically than necessary. Sometimes you questioned who the diva in this relationship was... "No. Darling, no. I agreed to share you with Miss Romanoff, but that filthy deer hunter? No." "Now you're being mean, baby." He shook his head; raven curls gently swinging with the motion. "I'm not being mean. I am stating facts, darling."

You inhaled deeply; sighing. "Fine. No Daryl, then. I won't force you into anything." Loki sighed as well, uncrossed his arms and instead placed his hands on your hips; again massaging gently. "What is it you find so appealing on Dixon? I want to understand." You crooked your head; smiling softly. "Seriously, Lokes? I clearly got a type. Tall, dark and handsome." Loki blinked and looked at you quite irritated and even almost a little offended.

"Are you intending that this barbarian looks like me?" You nodded confidently. "A little, yes. And it's not just the looks... I see quite a few parallels."

"You cannot be serious about that, my love."

"I am."

An offended, dramatic gasp left the God's lips. "Dixon's appearance is not even close to mine. Neither is his persona." Again you raised a eyebrow; still smiling.

Bickering like an old, married couple.

"Oh no?"

"No."

"What about the long hair then? Or the quite similar height of you two? Or the fact that you're both kind of anti-heroes? Having a difficult childhood. Fighting for acceptance, recognition and appreciation? Oh, and you both got an older brother. Like I said... Tall, dark and handsome. Sure, he's got a beard and is on the chunkier, dad bod side, whereas you are well-toned - but that's hot. Both. Both is hot and I really really want you both to rail me into oblivion at the same time."

Loki listened to your words; the muscles in his jaw working. He was thinking. Weighing your words.

"It's still your decision. Like I said, I won't force you," you added again; fingertips trailing over the taunt muscles of his stomach. "Plus, he's a friend. No stranger." Your partner didn't say a word; still contemplating. "You can think about this in quiet if you wish. We can talk about it tomorrow again, or even next we-" "Fine," Loki finally said; giving your hips a squeeze. "On one condition, darling." You nodded; eyes twinkling. "This encounter is your call - since you wished for it. However, I get to decide what Dixon is allowed to do or not to do. At the end of the day, you are my girlfriend, not his. He is just lucky enough to get a taste of paradise."

You nodded quickly; wholeheartedly agreeing to his terms. "Really, babe? You are truly okay with it?" "Yes. This one time." An excited squeak left your mouth and you leaned down to smash your lips on Loki's; kissing him. Then you straightened up again and quickly shuffled to get off of him. "I'm gonna go, ask him," you started. "Although I'm not even sure he wants this. I doubt it a little, honestly." Loki just casually shrugged his shoulders and slit the sunglasses back on his nose. "If Dixon is not agreeing to this, I am not sad." You giggled. "I reckon, babe."

"Daryl," you addressed the man who was currently changing tires on Tony's sports car. As he heard you, the mechanic turned around to face you. "Hey," he said; jutting his head at you, "What brings ya 'ere?" and wiping his grime stained hands on a red rug which had been tucked in the butt pocket of his mechanic overall. "Hey," you returned the greeting; giving him a smile. "Looking busy." You gestured at the red vehicle. "Nah. Jus' changin' tires. Ain't a big deal. 'M finished for today after that." "Well, in that case, you surely got a minute to spare for me?" "'O 'course. For ya? Always." He cleaned up his hands some more, then leaned against the hood of the car; arms crossed over his chest and looked at you - waiting for you to talk.

"I, uh... Wanted to ask you this for quite a while - and now that I finally talked to Loki about it, I can..." You started; a little unsure how to voice this rather... special request. "Ask me wha'?" You swallowed.

It was now or never, was it? Just... say it. Don't beat about the bush. Bull at a gate. Shoot.

"If you want to join Loki and me for... a threesome." Daryl's rather stoic impression wobbled for a moment as he almost lost his composure at your words. "Join ya fer a wha'?" He exclaimed; visibly thrown off guard and a little shocked. You bit your lip; looking at him. "You heard me, handsome."

You had always called him handsome - since day one. It was his nickname - even before you got together with Loki. It was nothing new to the mechanic, but in combination with your question it felt a lot different now...

Daryl needed a moment to reboot his brain and just... process this.

"Why?" He asked then. "Why would ya do tha'? 'N why would our drama queen even allow or agree to tha'? I mean, we kinda can't stand each other, right? 'N now yer tellin' me he agrees 't lettin' me fuck his girlfriend? Hell nah." "Weeeell," you started; drawing out the word. "It took me a little persuasiveness but he agreed. Truly." The man looked at you for a long moment; chewing on the inside of his bottom lip - a habit. Then he shook his head, "Nah." and turned to pick up his work where he left off.

You sighed and pouted. A little sad and a tiny bit disappointed. You knew he wouldn't agree to this 'easily'. To be so open and do something like that wasn't him. Unlike Daryl. You wouldn't push him or force him into this - but you wanted to give it one more try.

"You don't have to touch your enemy, you know," you said playfully and stepped beside him again. "This is about me - if I say so selfishly. I want you to touch and fuck me, not Loki. However, this would be hot too, can't deny that," you muttered the last sentence rather to yourself than Daryl - who looked at you with a soft blush on his cheeks. "Stop. Ain't nothin' special 'bout me." "Yes, yes, there is. I want you. My point stands - and I know the feeling is mutual." He scoffed. "Mutual? Dunno whatcha talkin' about."

You crossed your arms over your chest; smirking. "Oh yes, you do, Dixon. You really think I didn't notice how you are looking at me? With those hungry eyes? How often you check me out? Please... I've noticed for a long time." Daryl blushed even more at your words; the tips of his ears which poked out of his long bangs even turned red. He shook his head; mumbling almost ashamed: "Shouldn't do tha'. Ain't right. Yer taken. Off limits." "I am taken, yes - and that won't change. I love Loki. So yeah, I'm off limits - but not physically. You have my consent and most importantly, Loki's. All you have to say is yes." Daryl's blue eyes flickered up to meet yours again; chewing on his bottom lip.

A firm knock against the wooden door to yours and Loki's shared apartment announced his arrival - causing a rush of excitement swooping through you. It was time. Finally you'd get to quench your hunger for both, Loki and Daryl.

With a happy skip in your step, you made your way to the door, "Babe, Daryl's here!" "I know, darling. Was hard to overhear." and opened it with a giddy, excited giggle.

The mechanic stood in front of you; clad in a black shirt with the sleeves ripped off and grey sweatpants. His hands were shoven deeply in his pockets in order to stop them from fumbling and to somehow mask his nervousness. "Hey, Dar," you greeted him with a big smile on your face. The man's eyes widened slightly as he looked at you properly; taking in your appearance as well and noticing that you wore nothing but lingerie underneath an open bathrobe. He swallowed hard. "Christ... Ya get right to the point, eh? Ain't beatin' 'bout the bush, do ya?" "Nope," you said; popping the 'p'. "Straight down to business." You smiled and opened the door further. "Come in."

Daryl did as you asked him to and stepped inside. His gaze fell instantly on Loki, who was casually leaning against the wall opposite the door. The men's eyes met - nothing but looks exchanged. It felt like two alpha wolves meeting out in the wild... "Alright, let's go!" You threw in happily; clearly trying to skip this tense moment.

Loki graciously pushed himself off the wall and started to march towards the bedroom. You followed your partner and Daryl followed you.

Once inside said room, you giddily shed your bathrobe - the one Loki gifted you; made in Asgard by the best sewers. You were more than ready to dive head first into this tempting encounter. Expectantly, your eyes travelled to meet Loki and Daryl. The God jumped immediately into action and shed his green t-shirt; leaving his upper body bare, abs flexing almost provocatively - whereas the mechanic stood there a little awkwardly and like anchored to the floor beneath him.

"I cannot believe I truly agreed to..." Loki started and gave the other man a once over as he adjusted the waistband of his black sweatpants around his hips; muscles flexing again slightly. "...this." Daryl scoffed lowly and did the same; crossing his arms over his chest. "Yah, same," he spoke in a low almost threatening tone.

You noticed the tension right away - hence, you already felt it as Daryl stepped into your apartment, and knew that you had to intervene. "Guys, guys, guys..." You stepped between them. "We're all here for some fun and my sexual fantasies, remember? There's no reason for a fight or such, so please... Could you both lay your conflicts and egos aside for an hour? Please?"

Daryl eyed Loki, then you and gave a nod. "Yeah." "Babe?" You asked your partner; arms crossed over your chest. "Of course, darling," he answered and gave you a charming smile. "Thank you."

You stepped closer to both men, "Now that this is settled..." and reached for Loki to kiss him seductively; teeth and tongue. Hands roamed his bare, toned chest and stomach, while Loki's hands caressed your barely covered sides.

Daryl stood at the sidelines quite clumsy and just watched - unsure of what to do and how to interact. He never did something like that before, after all. Hence, he not even had that much sexual experience - something he wasn't ready to say out loud. At least not when Loki was around; knowing the God was the complete opposite of him - at least in that category.

Suddenly, though, he felt your hand on his and how you playfully yanked him forward and literally into you. "C'mere, Dixon," you purred. "Not doing this without you." He 'crashed' against your backside as you placed his hand on your hip, so he let the other follow a bit hesitatingly.

Daryl was a little overwhelmed - due to the lingerie you wore and the skin and curves it showed off. In comparion, this was nothing new to Loki, of course.

You kept on kissing your partner; thumbs now hooked inside his pants, whereas the God's hands had cupped your cheeks to keep your mouth locked to his. It didn't slip your notice, though, that Daryl still just stood behind you motionless. Apparently he needed another small push.

Freeing your lips with a wet pop, you turned your head to look over your shoulder, "You're allowed to touch me and be a part of this, Dar." and simultaneously pushed your ass back against him. The mechanic gasped - your aim being quite on point. You smiled; knowing your attempt was successful.

"Go for it. Trust me." Daryl swallowed hard. Feeling you pushed up against him and your words echoing in his head caused him to become a little braver; hips starting to gently rut against your ass and hands now gripping your hips a little tighter.

You bit your lip; being able to feel his growing arousal, of course. "That's it, Dar. Let me feel you, yes," you praised and motivated him. He let out a soft grunt in return and dipped his head to shyly kiss your neck.

Smiling and with sweet desire pumping through your veins, you shifted half your attention back to your boyfriend again. While you kissed Loki once more, you let one of your hands wander to his front; cupping his growing arousal as well and teasingly rubbed him over his sweatpants - which resulted in a low, muffled moan from the God against your lips.

You and the boys played that little game for another long moment before Loki took over the control for a second; grabbing you by the hips and 'yanking you free', so that he was able to hook his thumbs in the slim waistband of your lace panties. "Want that off, darling," he purred and graciously - almost teasingly for Daryl's eyes - slid the piece of fabric over your ass and letting it fall to pool on your feet. "This as well." Your boyfriend's right hand unhooked the clasp of your matching bra, while the left hand already wandered between your legs - testing, teasing.

A gasp left your lips as you felt the God's delicate, skilled fingers touch you; hands holding on to his strong shoulders and fingertips digging into the skin there. "F-Fuck, Lokes," you whispered; biting your lip and clenching your thighs together on instinct - which didn't stop Loki's hand from moving and a smirk to spread on his face. He was clearly pleased with his work and your reaction.

And Daryl? The mechanic still stood rather on the sidelines; still not exactly knowing what to do or how to join the fun. His hand was at the front of his sweatpants. Instinctively. Big palm leisurely rubbing the prominent bulge there while his eyes were stuck on you; switching between your bare chest and ass.

But then the scenery in front him changed as Loki removed his hand, grabbed you by the hips once more and playfully threw you on the bed.

The God didn't mind Daryl. Why should he? If the other man didn't decide to join in, he couldn't help. He wouldn't pick Daryl up like a stray puppy and tell him what to do. Certainly not.

"May I put my silver-tongue to use, darling?" Your boyfriend's raspy, undoubtedly sexy voice urged to your ears and sent another rush of arousal downtown. "Mhh, of course. How could I ever deny that?" The God chuckled as he crawled over you. A kiss to your lips. To your neck. To your sternum. Then his tongue traced a line down your body with a little detour - namely your breasts - and landed straight where you needed him most.

Well, almost...

Loki was a giver for sure - but he was also a tease. And that's what he did. Teasing you. Kissing your thighs and outer lips; nipping softly at the sensitive skin but never hitting the target. "Lokiiii!" You almost whined and pushed your hips against his face. The God chuckled. "Patience is a virtue, my love." You groaned but knew you had to go through this because the longer he teased you and kept you on edge, the better it was gonna feel.

Loki kept on teasing you for another while, before he situated himself between your legs; hoisting them over his shoulders. Then he dived in - and your eyes almost rolled to the back of your head. A moan slipped past your lips - on which a soft grunt followed... But not from your partner.

Your eyes snapped to your right; watching Daryl stand a respectable distance from the bed with his eyes stuck on you and his hand still clued to his crotch. You didn't forget about the shy mechanic. Definitely not, but Loki was messing with your brain as he did all those pleasuring things to you.

"Dar..." You called out his name softly to grab his attention. His beautiful blues snapped up to meet yours and his hand fell almost instinctively to his side - as if he was being caught. You had to really concentrate hard on talking - which wasn't an easy task with Loki's face buried between your legs. Your gaze dropped from his slightly flushed face to the hard to miss bulge in his sweatpants. You swallowed hard and licked your lips; eyes tracing the outlines of him. "C'mere..." You prompted; reaching out your hand in emphasis.

Cautiously, the mechanic stepped closer until his knees hit the edge of the bed. "Let me help you with this, big boy," you whispered - as seductive as possible and put your hand on him; feeling him. Daryl grunted low in his throat; breath hitching. You smiled and started to slowly rub him over the fabrics; feeling his hips buck into your hand.

Now and then your fingers twitched around him - due to the pleasuring shocks Loki sent through your body. Even though you were highly distracted, you tried your best to pleasure Daryl; keeping your attention split and on both men.

"Want more of you, Dar," you panted slightly; one hand meanwhile buried in your boyfriend's raven curls. "G-Get this off, please." You tugged at the waistband of his sweatpants and boxers. The mechanic got the assignment, of course and swiftly pulled both pants down in one motion; leaving him just in his shirt and socks. Your eyes fell once again on the prize - now freed of its cage. Licking your lips, you sat up a bit and instantly put your mouth on him. All in. A soft whine escaped Daryl's mouth and his eyes slipped shut; fingers balling to fists at his sides. You smiled around him and sucked him off; enjoying the feel of him on your tongue.

Not for long, though.

As Loki brought you closer and closer to the edge, the harder it got to keep your mouth on Daryl. And when Loki's silver-tongue flicked perfectly over that little bundle of nerves, you were done. A moan wanted to break free - and it did. Daryl's manhood slipped out of your mouth as you arched your back; head thrown back in pleasure. Your boyfriend's oceanic blues were on you; watching you reach your high with a satisfied smirk on his lips. Daryl watched you as well; dick twitching and glistening with his arousal and your saliva.

Loki pressed a last kiss to your sensitive core before he sat back on his haunches; still smirking.

You, giving Daryl head caused the mechanic to get braver; gathering some confidence. "Lemme get a taste, too," he said; voice husky and already moving to get where the other man was previously. But a strong arm in front of his chest stopped him. "By the Norns, certainly not. Tasting her is off limits for you, Dixon. You may put your lips on her body - but that sweet nectar is only mine to taste. I'm not giving you a chance to get accidentally addicted to what's mine."

scribbles listed in following format: date - title character(s) // challenge prompt song

warnings on individual posts

June 1st - Under the stars

Loki // "I never understood a single word he said"

Joy To The World by Three Dog Night

June 2nd - New neighbors

Bucky // "When I look out my window" *swapped prompt

Season of the Witch by Donovan

June 3rd - Promoted

Loki // "And he shows them pearly white"

Mack the Knife by Bobby Darin

June 4th - The first move

Bucky // "But I'm having such a good time"

Right Place, Wrong Time by Dr. John

June 25th - Just married

Loki // "I hate to do this, you leave no choice"

Rude by MAGIC!

June 28th - Start over

Loki // "If I get too close"

Northern Attitude by Noah Kahan (with Hozier)

|| my masterlist || @bookshelvesofcueloki ||

He wanted to run away, honestly, just disappear. Not only has Loki teamed up with the Avengers but now he was officially a part of the team, despite his protests. Loki's wife was particularly excited for this opportunity, something about doing something good. Suppose Loki could agree on that, it was a nice change of pace from what he used to do back home. Was it even home now? They had settled here, Loki, his wife and their son, Narfi. Their son was busy conversing with the spider boy, his newfound best friend. Loki found himself becoming very fond of Peter, in a way, Loki and his wife came to view Peter as their second son.

"I'm not sure Natasha, it's a bit-"

Loki turned his head at the sound of her voice, the widow had been very adamant on not allowing Loki to be a part of his wife's preparations for the party. It was unusual and it didn't feel right, getting ready without her. In Asgard they woke together and dressed together, as a couple, it was normal for them. It was comforting and intimate, suppose he could look past it on this occasion. Loki heard the clicking of heels, death contraptions that Midgardian women insisted on wearing. He was however interested in seeing his wife wear them, perhaps even trying them on himself for a bit. As uncomfortable as they looked, he can't deny that they grab his attention. Loki turned fully to see her standing there, his eyes nearly fell out of his head at the sight.

"Y/N?

Gone were the traditional dresses of Asgardian royalty, gone was modesty and virtue. His wife was dressed to the nines, the very image of indulgence. Floor length, deep burgundy dress, plum coloured heels to go with it. When Loki tilted his head to the right he saw the dress glitter in the light, she looked magical. Y/N approaches him, how could he neglect how tight the dress was? His wife filled it out spectacularly, in his mind she wore nothing but those heels. His mouth went dry as she leaned in to kiss him, the ways of his youth weren't lost after all. Loki gagged and looked away, he hadn't done that since their wedding day all those years ago.

"Oh Loki."

They laugh, a love so deep that it nauseated him at times, Loki couldn't begin to imagine a world without her in it. He had the whole evening with her, where they could be young again, just the two of them. He intended to show her just how much he adored her, in more ways than one. Hopefully Narfi could take care of himself for the night.

"You look- I have no words."

Loki knew it wouldn't change anything, it wouldn't heal the loneliness in his heart. The loss would still be there, that hole which was shaped like them. Like family. He gets curious, he looked after them all from where he sat. Peering into their lives through his branches, he had them all close by should he need them. Loki needed them a lot, he became addicted to it. The act of watching their lives play out, imagining those images to be his own memories. Loki hadn't celebrated Yule with his family in what felt like forever, it most likely was. Time works differently here, in a space where there was none to speak of. Loki smiled at the sight of a young Narfi running around the living room, clutching something in his hand. He liked to visit this branch a lot, getting to see this part if his son again. The young and carefree part. He peered into other branches as well, watching on as his son began celebrating Midgardian yule with his own family, to think that Loki was a grandfather now. He saw how much Narfi loved his daughter, the way he looked at her. It was the same way Loki had looked at him, he loved seeing the family all together for the holidays. Even Thor was there, spouting off some nonsense and cracking jokes that only a five year old would laugh at. It was all in good fun, Loki saw another version of himself clinging to them all. His arms around them, singing songs and laughing as if the world would never cave around them.

"God Jul..."

June 1st - Joy To The World - Three Dog Night “And he always had some mighty fine wine.” Fine Wine - Loki x Female Reader

“I never understood a single word he said.” Every Word - Lance Tucker x Female Reader

June 2nd - I Wanna Be Bad - Willa Ford “Do you understand what I need from you.” What I Need - Jonathan Pine x Female Reader

“No I can’t promise that I won’t do that.” Good Girl Tonight - Steve Rogers x Brat!Female Reader

“I’ve got things on my mind.” Things on My Mind - Mob!Thor x Female Reader

June 3rd - Mack the Knife - Bobby Darin “Scarlet billows start to spread.” Little Chat - Lloyd Hansen x Female Reader

“And he shows them pearly white.” Pearly White - Jester! Jefferson x Princess! Female Reader

June 3rd - Season of the Witch - Donovan “What do you think I see?” Look at Me - Bucky Barnes x Female Reader

“When I look out my window.” Window Seat - Chris Beck x Female Reader

June 4th - Right Place, Wrong Time - Dr. John “Really got to give myself a good talking to this…” Good Talking To - Jake Jensen x Female Reader

“But I’m having such a good time.” Good Time - Lee Bodecker x Female Reader

June 5th - Hey! Baby - Bruce Channel “C’mon baby, give me a whirl.” Give Me a Whirl - Deputy Lee Bodecker x Female Reader

“I’m gonna make her mine, all mine.” All Mine - Frank Adler x Female Reader

June 6th - Therefore I Am - Billie Eilish “When they say your name, I just act confused.” Act Confused - Loki x Female Reader

“I don’t think I caught your name.” Caught Your Name - Max Burnett x Female Reader

“Your world’s an ideal.” An Ideal - Andy Barber x Female Reader

June 7th - Jump (For My Love) - Pointer Sisters “Where no one’s ever gone before.” No One’s Ever Gone - James Mace x Female Reader

“I know you like what you see.” Like What You See - Ransom Drysdale x Female Reader

June 8th - Living La Vida Loca - Ricky Martin “Like a bullet to your brain.” Loaded Weapon - August Walker x Female Reader

“I feel a premonition.” Premonition - Chase Collins x Female Reader

June 9th - Somebody That I Used To Know - Gotye “You can get addicted to a certain kind of sadness.” Certain Kind of Sadness - Adam OLLA  x Female Reader

“Like when you said you felt so happy you could…” Happy You Could Die - Dad!Bucky x Wife!Reader

“Well, you said that we would still be friends.” Still Friends - Johnny Storm x Female Reader

June 10th - Pink Pony Club - Chappell Roan “Blacklights and a mirrored disco ball.” Something - Mob!Loki x Stripper!Female Reader

“Every night’s another reason why I left it all.” Another Reason - Nick Fowler x Female Reader

June 11th - Little Bitty Pretty One - Thurston Harris “Come on, stay the night with me.” Stay the Night - Hal Carter x Female Reader

“Tell you a story.” Enter Negotiations - Dad!Thor x Female Reader

June 11th - Don’t Stop Believing - Journey “Hidin’ somewhere in the night.” Somewhere in the Night - James Conrad x Female Reader

“A smell of wine and cheap perfume.” Cheap Perfume - James Norrington x Female Reader

June 12th - Tainted Love - Soft Cell “To make things right.” Make Things Right - Steve Kemp x Female Reader

“I cannot stand the way you tease.” Tease - Jack O’Malley x Female Reader

June 13th - Town Without Pity - Gene Pitney “Before this clay and granite planet falls apart!” Before It Falls Apart - Thor x Female Reader

“Only those in love could know.” Only Those in Love - Thomas Sharpe x Female Reader

June 14th - Play That Funky Music - Wild Cherry “How could I be so foolish.” Foolish - Dark!Loki x Female Reader

“Til you die?” Till You Die - Kraven x Female Reader

“I thought that they were out of their minds.” Out of Their Minds - Mickey Henry x Female Reader

June 15th - Bad Habits - Ed Sheeran “My bad habits lead to you.” One Choice Leads to Another - EB!Frank x Female Reader

“I got nothin’ left to lose, or use, or do.” Nothing Left - Destroyer!Chris x Female Reader

June 15th - Daydream Believer - The Monkees “But how much, baby, do we really need.” Do We Really Need - Dad!Curtis x Female Reader

“You once thought of me.” Once Thought of Me - Erik POTO x Female Reader

June 16th - Every Breath You Take - The Police “I’ll be watching you.” Watching You - Jonathan Pine x Female Reader

“Every smile you fake.” Every Smile You Fake - Loki x Female Reader

June 17th - Say Something - A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera “Just starting to crawl.” Starting to Crawl - Husband!Lee Bodecker x Wife!Female Reader

“It was over my head.” Over My Head - God the Bounty Hunter x Female Reader

June 18th - Come and Get Your Love - Redbone “Get it together, baby.” Get It Together - Walter Marshall x Female Reader

“What’s the matter with you.” Overstepping - Thunderbolts!Bucky x Female Reader

June 18th - Praying - Kesha “Oh, but after everything you’ve done.” After Everything - Loki x Female Reader

“I’m proud of who I am.” Proud - Jake Jensen x Female Reader

June 19th - Raise Your Glass - Pink “In all the right ways.” All the Right Ways - Ari Levinson x Female Reader

“You can choose to let it go.” Let It Go - Lloyd Hansen x Female Reader

June 20th - All Shook Up - Elvis “I’m a little mixed up, but I feel fine.” Tumble - Steve Rogers x Female Reader

“Who do you thank when you have such luck?” Such Luck - Andy Barber x Female Reader

June 21st - Animal I Have Become - Three Days Grace “But there’s still rage inside.” Rage Inside - Loki x Female Reader

“I can’t control myself.” Control - Nick Fowler x Female Reader

June 22nd - Wonderwall - Oasis “There are many things that I would like to say…” Don’t Want to Talk - Lee Bodecker x Female Reader

“Because maybe.” Because Maybe - Congressman!Bucky x Legislative Director!Female Reader

June 22nd - Dancing Queen - ABBA “You can dance, you can jive.” Dancing Queen - Jake Jensen x Female Reader

“Anybody could be that guy.” That Guy - Ransom Drysdale x Female Reader

June 23rd - I Believe In A Thing Called Love - The Darkness “Just listen to the rhythm of my heart.” Rhythm of My Heart - Bucky Barnes x Female Reader

“We’ll be rocking till the sun goes down.” Till the Sun Goes Down - Jax Teller x Female Reader

June 24th - Groove Is In The Heart - Deee-Lite “Satisfaction of what’s to come.” The Promise of More - Thor x Female Reader

“No, I couldn’t ask for another.” Another - Lance Tucker x Female Reader

June 24th - Cry Me A River - Julie London “You drove me, nearly drove me.” Nearly Drove Me - Enforcer!Bucky x Mob Boss!Female Reader

“Now you say you love me.” Slurred Confessions - Lee Bodecker x Female Reader

June 25th - Rude - MAGIC! “Cause I know that you’re an old fashioned man.” Old Fashioned Man - Mob!Steve x Female Reader

“I hate to do this, you leave no choice.” No Choice - Dad!Loki x Female Reader

June 26th - Total Eclipse of the Heart - Bonnie Tyler “Your love is like a shadow on me all of…” Shadow on Me - Loki x Female Reader

“There’s nothing I can do.” Nothing I Can Do - Max Burnett x Female Reader

June 26th - I Touch Myself - Divinyls “I forget myself.” Forget Myself - Knight!Steve x Princess!Female Reader

“I don’t want anybody else.” Anybody Else - Endgame!Thor x Female Reader

June 27th - The Dark End of the Street - James Carr “They’re gonna find us.” Find Us - Jonathan Pine x Female Reader

“That’s where we always meet.” Where We Meet - James Conrad x Female Reader

June 28th - Northern Attitude - Noah Kahan “You feelin’ right? You feelin’ proud?” Not Proud - Tony Stark x Female Reader

“If I get too close.” Too Close - Stalker!Bucky x Female Reader

June 28th - Wherever You Will Go - The Calling “If I could, then I would.” Exquisite Ruin - Loki x Female Reader

“Well, then I hope there’s someone out there.” Someone Out There - Logan x Female Reader

June 29th - Mr Brightside - The Killers “It was only a kiss, it was only a kiss.” Only a Kiss - Lee Bodecker x Female Reader

“But it’s just the price I pay.” The Price I Pay - Raymond Smith x Female Reader

June 29th - If the World Was Ending - JP Saxe feat. Julia Michaels “How to think about you without it rippin’ my heart…” Without Ripping - EB!Frank x Female Reader

“Were you out drinkin’.” Between Us - Steve Rogers x Female Reader

June 30th - Don’t Speak - No Doubt “Aren’t we?” Same Side - Nick Fowler x Female Reader

“I know what you’re thinkin’.” What You’re Thinking - Loki x Female Reader

June 30th - Little Things Mean a Lot - Kitty Kallen “Blow me a kiss from across the room.” From the Hall - Mob!Bucky x Club Singer!Female Reader

“Call me at six on the dot.” On the Dot – Deputy Lee Bodecker x Female Reader

Keratosis pilaris, chicken skin, strawberry skin? Different names, same problem. You remember having those red bumpy dots on your arms and legs for as long as you could remember. Ever since puberty hit, you didn't have them all your life though, but one day you woke up and found your skin covered with those God awful bumps. The back of your arms, your thighs, even your buttocks.

Now if the world was a better place you might not have cared about these harmless bumps, after all they're just excess protein in your skin, but at the age of 18 when you wore that pretty dress for prom and instead of telling you how pretty you looked, when your friends and your boyfriend commented on how patchy your skin felt, your self-esteem hit the lowest.

Ever since then you closed off, you tried everything to make them go, every remedy you could find on the internet, you tried ointments and lotions from dermatologists but it would Always be there so you stopped making an effort to cure it and started to hide them instead. You always wore clothes that wouldn't reveal your skin, always hid them from everyone, because when people commented on your skin you just wanted to dig a hole and jump down, and stay there forever.

"Oh god that's disgusting, is it contagious?" That's what one of your ex said to you when you finally built the courage to take your clothes off for him. Whatever self esteem you had left, it was shattered that day so dating was a huge problem because you were so afraid that they'd act like how your ex did so even though you liked boys and tried to date them, it never lasted long because you'd never go far enough to take off your clothes. So when you fell in love with loki and he felt the same way about you, you knew you were screwed and you knew you'd lose him soon and just the thought was enough to break your heart.

"What's wrong darling? Did I go too far? I apologise if I did" He asked as he kissed your forehead, he saw your sullen face and immediately scooted you closer to him, you both haven't had sex yet, and he wanted to wait as long you'd want him to "Nothing lo..you did nothing baby" you looked down as you teared up, you never told him about your problem, what good it would do? You wanted to have him for as long as you could even though it felt selfish.

He noticed a pattern, everytime things between you two would get hot and heavy, you'd push him away or make an excuse, was it because you didn't want to have sex or something else? He couldn't figure it out.

"I have said this before but I'm going to say it again my love, you can tell me anything that bothers you, I'm yours arent I? Then why won't you share?" He lifted your chin up and you couldn't stop yourself from crying so you hugged him tightly as you sobbed. He's the kindest, sweetest, nicest man you have ever met in your life, you were crazily in love with him, but as usual you were allowing your insecurities to ruin this .

"You should leave me before I hurt you further" you sobbed into his arms and he just held you even tighter "Now I'm not going to do such silly thing, tell me what's eating you from inside, I'm here my darling girl, I'm here and I am yours so please share what burdens you"

He asked you and you just wanted to melt because of how soft his voice sounded, you wanted him as much he wanted you but the insecurities you had cut you far too deep. You tried to speak but you didn't know where to start "Want me to read you? Would that be easier?" He asked you and you nod your head in yes.

He placed his fingers on your temples and he put his forehead forward on yours to calm you down, and then he saw each and everything that bothered you, he saw how your friends made fun of your skin, he saw how you ex treated you and he hated every second of it. His beautiful girl felt confident enough to show off her beauty and they destroyed you for such a harmless condition. Something you didn't have a Control over, something that didn't even affect your appearance. He knew what it felt like to not feel good about the skin you are living in, he knew all about it. Maybe with time he can make you feel beautiful again and maybe with his love and care you'd learn to love yourself all over again.

"Ohh beautiful beautiful girl of mine" he hugged you tightly and he felt you sobbing even harder. Why isn't he running? You look disgusting without your clothes, he should make some excuse and leave, maybe he will.

As your sobs diminished he pulled away from you "you want to talk to me about it pretty girl?" Pretty girl, he still thinks you are pretty? "You want to stay?" You asked him as if he would leave you for something like that "You really think of me so shallow my darling girl?" He teared up and that's when you truly realised how much he loves you and how much he cares about you "I don't .I'm..sorry lo .I'm so sorry" you mumbled and he pulled you in for a soft kiss as he cupped your cheeks "I love you, more than you'll ever know, so never ever think that I would leave you for something as harmless as this skin condition" he mumbled softly. Maybe seeing them would change his mind? You hated yourself for doubting him like this but you couldn't help it.

"You want to see?" You asked him and he shook his head in no "You don't have to do it unless you're comfortable, never ever have to feel like you owe me something okay?" He caressed your head and you pulled away to take your shirt off, his sincerity compelled you to reveal what you have been hiding from him, he deserved to see. His eyes widened as he saw you in your filmsy tank top underneath the shirt, god he loved you so much.

You grabbed his hands and you placed his finger tips on the back of your arms, he ran it down slowly over the dots you had on them and you hid your face in the crook of his neck, maybe now he'll realise that he wouldn't want to touch you like this, but then you felt him picking your arms up, as he kissed on your shoulder and went down, you moaned softly as you felt his lips trailing down "You worried of this silly little thing my love, I can't take my eyes off you, all this skin you're showing off for me is driving me crazy" he whispered in your ears and you looked at him, you're so in love with him it's unbelievable.

This is all you needed, just someone who wouldn't look at you differently "They are all over my thighs and butt too" you said meakly and he smiled as he picked your chin up to look at him "and I'll spend all my life kissing them and caressing them, each and every one of them, I can read you like a braille if I keep my eyes closed" you kissed him before he could say anything more and you didn't pull away untill you were both breathless and gasping for air.

"Never have to hide yourself from me, my love, never, I would never ever leave I promise you" he told you and you nod your head. His finger tips trailed softly all over your skin "So soft you are, and you have been keeping me away from this ?" He mumbled and you blushed. Must be all the body lotion you live by religiously. He pulled you closer to him and smothered you in kisses, soft little touches all over the area you felt insecure about, he couldn't wait to see more of you , all of you.

"I would never leave either lo, I love you" he smiled and kissed your forehead. God you were beautiful inside out and he couldn't have been luckier than this "Time to cuddle" he picked you up and you squealed as you giggled.

A text from Thor, forwarded to Loki.

An aesthetic photo you made Loki take.

Proof of his hair curly and ginger.

That week he wore a bun.

Breakfast note from Loki.

The walk to the lake.

Attached to a text to Loki > Hey so!! This is a fire hazard.

Replanting the garden.

The time he made breakfast in a mood.

Nail night!

Catching him reading in the morning.

Braiding Loki's hair.

Loki stands at his shoulder, arms crossed, keeping from touching anything in the cluttered apartment. O'Malley trades the cask-aged whiskey for the cup of black coffee and continues to slurp as he types with one hand. He smacks his lips in content and puts the mug down, fingers clacking faster.

He chuckles to himself. "My buddy, J, showed me a few tricks."

"Mm. I'm sure you keep rather savoury company." Loki muses.

"You're here," O’Malley retorts dryly.

He hits a single button with fervour and sits back. "I've refined the script generated to be more... Human. Now to test the audio."

He taps a button several times to increase the volume. O'Malley sits back and let's the audio run. Loki presses his knuckles to his chin as he listens.

"What're you doing, babe?" The male voice asks.

"Waiting for you to call, baby," the familiar voice keens back. It's her but not quite. Loki frowns.

"Yeah, you working? Not too hard I hope... Speaking of hard."

Loki grimaces at the lewd suggestion and the idea of another man speaking to her that way. He huffs as the conversation descends into details. He clucks and drops his hand back into the crook of his elbow.

"How did you do it?" He asks.

"AI is a wonderful and dangerous thing." O'Malley preens and swigs from the bottle. "I had this ex. She was wild so I need some... Insurance."

"Mm," Loki drones, unimpressed. "It still sounds rather... Uncanny."

"Yeah, it's gonna need some refinement. I could get J to tweak it. I'm better at finding things but he's the expert with tech."

"And what's that gonna cost me?" Loki challenges.

O'Malley smirks and checks the label of the bottle as he lifts a brow. "How much more of this can you get?”

💚

There’s scuffling on the other side of the speaker. Loki adjusts the volume on his car stereo and sighs. His stomach is in knots as he listens to the hacked line. O’Malley’s accomplice had a few useful tricks; he could infest a phone he’d never even been in the same room as. Tricky, in the most devious sort of way.

A door shuts and the rickety man clears his throat. There’s more chafing. Then a pause.

“Um, sir,” she cheeps. Loki leans forward. “Can I ask what’s… going on?”

“Why don’t you guess?” Her supervisor snarls.

Loki twitches. He doesn’t like that. He should feel bad that he’s the cause of such venom and yet, he only feels riled that anyone would speak to her thus. After all, he only has power over his own actions.

“I don’t… know? Was it my last survey? I’m sorry but I just couldn’t get her to stay on the line.”

“Don’t play stupid with me. You know why you’re here.”

“Um… no?”

“Just admit it and this will all go easier. Whether you do or don’t, won’t change the outcome.” The man sneers.

“Sir, please, I don’t have any idea–”

“Shut up.” Her supervisor barks.

Silence again. Only the noise of rustling and the clack of a keyboard. The familiar recording starts. The one O’Malley and his cohort conjured up. The lurid conversation stirs him, causing him to squirm in the seat as he wishes it was real and him, not some false voice on the other end.

She squeaks. “That’s not me!”

“Oh? Who else would it be?” Her boss accuses. “You really think I’m stupid?!”

“No, no. It’s not. I never!” She squeals. “It can’t–”

“We got it off of your station. So, explain to me who else it would be?” He grizzles.

“Please,” she begs, her horror laced with confusion. “I don’t understand.”

“You understand.” The man snips. “Clear your desk and leave.”

“Sir, no! I need this job. Please–”

“Get out of here. Now. You slut.” The supervisor hollers and something crashes.

Loki braces the wheel. He stops as he hears her sniffling and her feet shuffling frantically. The door opens and closes and her shoes hammer in retreat. The twinge in his gut moves to his chest, just for an instant, then dissipates. He turns off the audio.

He waits. He watches the building as his leg jiggles with impatience. He sees her flee from the building in a flap of flannel as her bag bounces on her hip. Her curvy, soft hip.

He coughs and rolls his shoulders. One thing at a time man. She hurries down the street, covering her face in dismay, and doesn’t stop until she reaches the bus stop. She falls onto the bench and keeps her face in her palms.

He taps his fingers on the steering wheel as he machinates. He’s dreamt up this scenario over and over, each night as he settles in his bed and now, he hesitates. He has to play it perfectly.

He gets out and waits for the traffic to clear before crossing in a slant. He fixes his suit and tie as he gets to the other side of the street and struts up the pavement. He slows as he nears the stop. She’s rocking as mops her tears with her sleeves.

She wears a plain white tank under the half-buttoned flannel, over the same torn jeans she was wearing when she collided with him the first time they met. She doesn’t sense him as she wallows in her despair. He watches her, waiting to be caught. He isn’t.

Slowly, he steps forward and inspects the bench. He dusts it off before he turns and sits next to her. She wipes her hands on her jeans and winces. She shrinks as much as she can as she makes room for him.

“Sorry,” she murmurs.

He hums. Her voice is delectable, especially so low and close to him. His trousers get tighter. He unbuttons his jacket.

“My dear, you are…upset? What is it?” He asks.

She sniffs and wipes her face again. She won’t look at him. “It’s not… I’m sorry.”

“Sorry? Why, darling, I saw you across the way and I couldn’t help but come see what had you in such a state.” He insists.

“Huh?” She bats her lashes and hugs herself. “Why?”

“Oh, I do hate to see any pretty woman in disarray.”

She gulps. “Don’t… worry about me. I’m… I’ll be… fine.”

“The kindness of strangers is a gift. Dear, might I try to brighten your day? It does seem so dour.” He coaxes.

She cautiously looks up at him. There’s no recognition in her eyes. He’s both relieved but slightly agitated by her ignorance. 

“You really don’t have to…”

“I want to, dear.” He insists. “Please.” He lifts his hand slowly and extends it. “Loki, and you?”

She looks at his hand then shakes it. It’s so small in his. A thrill rolls over him. She ekes out the name he already knows.

You stare at his lined knuckles and palm. You put your hand in his and let him take you down the hall. He pauses right before you reach the dining room.

He leans over and whispers. "I do not expect you to forgive my oafish son." He glances at the doorframe. "I wouldn't recommend it either."

He squeezes softly and guides you into the dining room. "Ah, there we are. You know, I've decided," he takes you around to a chair and pulls it out for you. "Today will be your day, dear. We will not have you serve us, no we've come to meet our new daughter. Not work her to the bone."

Loki sighs. "I only requested less milk in my te--"

"Her day." Odin stands between you and his son, and claps his shoulder harshly. "Not yours.”

“Her…” Loki begins.

“Yes. We’ve come to meet your wife. We know you well enough.” Odin retorts as he guides you to your chair. “But perhaps, you still have a deal of getting to know her to do yourself.”

“Father. I only requested my tea–”

“Are you not clever enough to get your own tea? I do hope I taught you better.” Odin gently pushes in your chair as you sit.

“Thank you,” you say.

“See, your wife is much more charming than her ungrateful husband.” Odin chides.

“I warn you again to not disrespect me in my own home,” Loki slithers.

You chafe in your seat. Odin’s hand lingers on the back of the chair then gently touches your shoulder. “I will not persist in riling you. For her sake. She does not deserve it and you have the sense to see how your behaviour affects her. To seek her content over your own.” Odin squeezes softly. “It is never too late to rethink, dear.”

Loki sighs and flutters his long fingers. He clucks in his throat and bends his elbow to rest his chin on his knuckles. Odin retreats and sits with Frigga on the other side of the table.

“Well, I think the lady of the day is in need of some tea…” Odin declares.

Silence wafts up around the table. You look at the others then lean forward to stand.

“Ah,” Odin shows his palm then points at his son. “A lady as wonderful as your wife should be pampered.”

Loki sits up straight in his chair and drops his hand. You sense him look at you but you’re too nervous to return his gaze. He pushes his chair back and stands.

“Of course. Darling,” the turns and buttons his jacket. “What do you take in your tea?”

“Just tea, please.” You murmur as you wring your hands.

He reaches for the tea pot at the centre of the table and fills the cup by your plate. Odins runs his fingers back and forth beside his cutlery.

“Mother… father,” Loki intones. “Tea?”

“I’ve yet to have any of my own,” Odin grips the handle of the dainty tea cup. “Though your mother is in need of a top up.”

He leans across and fills Frigga’s cup then adds milk from the small porcelain jug. He sits down stiffly. You cautiously take your cup and sip.

“Thank you, husband.” You eke out.

“Mm.” Loki hums.

Odin shakes his head. As your eyes meet his, his expression softens. He smiles.

“I heard tell of some ducks. You haven’t seen any around?” He asks.

You can’t help but perk up. You glance over at Loki and shrug. “Um. By the pond I think.”

“Ah, wonderful. Would you show me them after we eat? I do have a soft spot for small creatures.”

“Erm. I… suppose I could.” You look over at Loki as his posture remains rigid and his thin lips locked.

“Do not let his petulance spoil the day. The winters are grey enough.” Odin says. “Perhaps some longing will fix his attitude.”

🦆

You help Frigga clear the table but she insists upon the rest of the tidying. You feel wrong letting her do it all. Should you, as the host, at least help? You hadn’t even the sense to begin breakfast yourself. It didn’t even occur to you for all the times you skipped meals for one reason or another.

Odin waits in the front hall, mulling over a frame on the wall. You near him and peek at it. It is a forestscape etched in ink lines. He turns to you.

“My father drew that. It used to hang in my office. Loki always had an eye for it. I thought it would be a kind gesture to pass it on. Well, I suppose he expects more for his inheritance.” Odin explains.

“Oh?”

“Far more than he deserves.” He resigns. “Like you. You realise, my dear, you are far above him. Your kindness is unearned from him.”

“Sir.”

“Odin,” He gently touches your sleeve. “Please. Now, you require a coat and boots before we venture out. It is as frigid without as my son’s spirit.”

He leads you to the entry way. You pull on the same coat Frigga brought you that morning. You put on the shoes in the wrong size and wait patiently behind Odin.

As you go out, he hooks his arm through yours. You take him around the house and across the backyard to the sparse trees along the pond’s edge. The ducks are there, dipping their heads and shaking their feathers.

“They know you,” Odin muses.

“Hm, maybe. I come to watch them. They are peaceful.”

“And peace you deserve. I can see in you that you’ve not had much of it.” He stands close and shivers. “I only regret that you’ve chosen a rather turbulent husband to seek it in.”

As you pass through the sea of brocade and silk cravats, you distract with your basket of biscuits. The men’s eyes would betray their purses far before they realised they were stale and it would be too late for them to see recompense. Your other hand is about your true work, that which brings you much of your profit.

For all their layers of clothing, the theatre patrons are none the wiser of your creeping reach. Of the coin lifted or pins displaced. And why shouldn’t you profit from their flagrant roosting of the riches they were only so fortunate to be borne into. They know now what it is to want; to need. To have to find any means to keep from the gutter.

A man pauses and reaches under his fine green jacket, an emerald vest exposed beneath. He slides free a pocket watch and reads the face. You pocket a brooch from another man bartering with a street cart driver and slither along.

The man is preoccupied. His head cranes on his long neck as he searches the street impatiently. He tucks the pocket watch away and you catch a glimpse of the snake engraved on its cover. What a fine piece it is…

You offer a man closeby a biscuit. He declines but hands you a coin anyway. Some are rich enough to be generous, a gesture to comfort their greedy souls. The man with the watch flicks back a stray strand of shiny black hair, his profile pensive as his fingers twiddle at his side.

You must find the proper opportunity. You know the temptation of a biscuit will not do. He is the type to shew you away. You can foresee those long fingers waving you off. You can also see the emeralds set into the ring around his pinky. He can spare the unfortunate loss.

You peer around. You shadow another man as he nears. He goes to pass by the black-haired man and you manage to become tangled up in him, dramatically tumbling towards the man in green as your basket spills over.

You hit him like a plank. He does not bend or waver. You screech out theatrically, as one of the actors inside, and steady yourself with shaky hands. Your finger hooks the chain beneath his jacket. With a stealthily practiced pinch, you loose it.

The man grips your shoulders and pushes you away. You wind up the chain quickly and hide the watch beneath your cuff. You step back and look down at your half-empty basket and the mess of biscuits on the ground.

“Eh, good sir, look where you walk,” he calls after the other gentleman who flees the disaster.

You mope and touch your forehead, the watch sliding down your sleeve to the elbow. “Oh my!”

“And you, should be more aware as it were. I’m certain it’s not your first walking the street.” He sniffs and peers past you with a huff.

What an uncouth man. If you ever felt bad for any of your targets, it would not be him. For him to imply such a thing. A thief yes but never… that.

“A good day to you too, sir,” you snip tritely.

The biscuits crumble under your feet as you trod away. Best not to draw more attention. A fleet escape is always best. And there is a rather perilous purse on a belt beckoning to you.

It is wise to be away before the crowd thins too much and you become too obvious. You slip down the alleyway, intent to offer the last of the biscuits to the urchins near the dock. Then you’ll return to your shared apartment and tally your proceeds.

You whistle as you come close to the far end of the alley and a shadow steps into your path. You falter and squint at the figure. A flash of green strikes in your mind.

“It isn’t lady like to whistle,” the black-haired man sneers. “Though I doubt you are aware of what is and isn’t ladylike.”

“Pardon me, sir. You’ve already dumped half my wares–”

“You were rather convincing,” he points at you. Your eyes flit to the gem on his pinky. He scoffs. “And ever crow-eyed.”

“Sir, I’ve not any hint of your meaning–”

“Do you think yourself so clever?” His lip curls as he steps closer and you retreat at a pace.

You stare at him dumbly. “Why do you trouble me, sir? I am but a common woman–”

“You are but a common thief!” He barks. “I should bring down the police upon you and let them beat what is mine out of you.”

“Sir, how dare you? That is a vile accusation–”

“Empty your pockets–”

“Sir!”

“Remove your cloak and let me see. I would be certain to find all the lumps of your larceny–”

“You are coarse. To accuse a lady–”

“Lady,” he advances again and you evade his reach. “The word would sour on your tongue.”

“Sir, you are mistaken. I pray, go fetch the coppers. I’ll be happy to let them investigate–”

His fingers curl and straighten. “I seek my own justice. I am a man of honour.”

“You are as they all are,” you chirp. “You harass the honest folk as you could never do one of your pretty pampered countesses–”

He moves so fast, you nearly scream. You swing your basket at him and spill the rest of the biscuits. He bats it away so the handle slips from your grasp and his other hand closes around your throat. You cough and grip his wrist as he marches you back into the alley.

“You can lie to yourself but you can't lie to me.” He growls as he turns you and pushes you against the wall. “I know what you are. I know what you’ve taken. Return to me my watch.”

“Watch? What need would I–” Your voice fizzles as he squeezes harder.

“I will find it myself,” he grits and pushes your thin cape back. 

His hand gropes and grabs at your dress, squeezing your skirts, crawling up your stomach, then stretching across the swell of your bosom. He pauses as you squirm. His cheek twitches as you tug helplessly at his arm.

His touch trembles and he fondles your chest. He tilts his head and squeezes harder. He lets go of your neck and pushes you hard against the wall. His other hand goes to your chest. He pushes your bosom together and grins.

You gulp in air and rasp. “You rodent!” You slap his hands. “I am no whore.” You shake your sleeve and the watch slips down. You grasp it and hold it up, pushing on his right arm as he continues to defile you. “Take the damned watch and be off me.”

He snickers and teethes his lip. He hums and his tongue pokes out, running along his top lip. He lets go of you and takes the watch. He steps back and clasps the chain on his vest once more and slides the watch into his pocket.

He lingers and looks down his body. He frames the front of his trousers with his large hands. He laughs as you see the shape of him through the fabric as it grows taut.