My heartbeat was so loud that it drummed in my ears. I clenched my hands into fists, trying to steady the rogue race. Nothing warranted for me to feel this way. Even so, my heart disobeyed me.

Not that my action helped, either. It made me remember the feeling of Loki's warm tongue left in my hand earlier. Relaxing my hand, I stared at it before bringing it to my lips. This feeling within me that rose every time I was near him was truly not good at all. Without realizing it, I brought my hands down to my chest.

I once again buried that emotion deep down. Sadly, I never knew it would be this difficult. Keeping up a mask was getting harder to do, and I was one day in.

How will I survive this?

Well... I had incentives to try. After all, my life was in the line. For a moment, I sat there before slowly finding my feet, heading out to carry out my duties. It was mostly helping Gerta out as the princes were out much of the day to my inconvenience.

The only time I saw them come back was around lunch, and Alistair's maids were all over them. Poor Oz seemed dead tired the entire time, while Loki seemed annoyed by the maids who gawked at them. He ended up snapping at them.

It was a bit startling to the poor girls, who expected him to be a lot kinder than he was. My rowdy prince called them sluts to their faces. He wanted nothing to do with them. So instead, I took over by using a bit of my magic to cause one of them to trip and fall.

A bit of mischief. But it was cute to watch the prince laugh. Sadly, wine spilled all over poor Gerta. She blew her head, screaming at Alistair's maids.

"You unprofessional klutz. Clean the floor of the entire castle until it is spotless." Gerta yelled at the trio.

The Vampires continued towards their lunch, uncaring of what was happening. Though in Loki's and Oswald's lips, there was a sly smirk. During that time, I could not converse with the twins at all.

Gerta, even though her dress was soiled, stayed to tend to Asher and his wife, Andrea. And it was not like the boys needed anything. They refused to eat anything that the maids brought. After that Asher took them somewhere, leaving us maids behind. And by the time they were back, it was already night.

The maids were already off the clock unless the princes asked for us, which Loki had. So, I waited in his room once again. This time fully accompanied by Zoe and Emma, who insisted on staying with me.

Even though I had not told them a thing of what happened between me and the boys. I drank that awful rose tea too before coming. Sadly, I did not quite trust Loki's word fully. It made blood somewhat bitter to vampires, but had to be taken every day for it to be effective.

A simple precaution. If he bit me now, then only I would lose control. And that was better, at least for me. It brought the least issues with staying to protect him. Even if I did something unacceptable while...

Ah… that will be a drag.

However, while we waited there, we were not met by Loki but Alistair, who seemed to have come first. His room was by the end of the hall. It was not a surprise to see him. For a moment, I thought he would walk past us without a care. No, he halted in front of us.

His blue eyes fell on me. I met with them soon after. A familiar emotion was present on this prince's face. Lust and annoyance were all that was in those blue orbs of his. Loki's warning about his brother seemed to be accurate.

Yet there was something else in his eyes. Something I would choose to ignore. Yet I smiled somewhat because of his approach. Loki knew his brother well enough to know he would try to make a move on me.

A pathetic thing. I would not allow him to touch me. Well, I would think about it if it would save my life. In this case, though, his life was connected to mine somewhat. I had to be careful to not do anything rash. Zoe and Emma both followed my gaze to meet with the intruding vampire too.

Unlike me, they were not amused by him.

"Do you need something, prince Alistair?" I asked politely.

He seemed to eye me down like I was candy ready for the taking. Though his mood seemed to be in the gutter. Even so, I never expected what came out of his mouth. I was cursed for him to be that direct.

Men sugarcoated nothing anymore.

"I could use a company in my room, doll. Want to come with me?" Alistair answered with a smirk planted on his face.

He was a handsome vampire. Probably the same as Loki and Oswald, but... the feeling I got from him was different. Even though there was a loneliness in his eyes that I could resonate with, I shook my head.

I could almost see a vein pop on Emma and Zoe when he said that, but instead of saying anything. They bit their tongue. This was one of the two crown princes. Disrespect him and well, a shock would surely follow. Perhaps even lead to a worse outcome for us.

They were smart, at least.

"I’m sorry, but I’ll respectfully decline. Unfortunately, I’m here to meet your brother for unknown reasons. So, I’m booked at the moment." I informed, gazing away from Alistair, hoping he would leave it at that.

Part of me wished to see the person I was supposed to meet here come around the corner, too. Instead of that, I saw Alistair's red blouse sleeve block my vision. He placed his hands next to me on the wall, pinning me between him and it.

Luckily, he was not touching me, or else I...

Vampires and their annoying speed. Control... Vivian... Remember polite and fragile.

"Aw, come on. Don’t be like that. I’m way better than Loki in bed. I assure you." Alistair tried to convince me to change my mind.

I turned to face the lonely boy that was in front of me. The only men allowed to touch me were my protectors and father anyone else I would... That line of thought was why I always ended up spilling the blood of those who approached me on my days out with Lilith.

She loved it whenever I did that, but it was a habit that would get me in trouble here. This was not a village in a remote area. Killing this prince could change history for my benefit, but changing the timeline always caused ripples in unforeseen ways.

Well, for important figures at least. And something directly intertwined his timeline with mine. Removing him might lead to Loki's death by another's hand. So, knowing the perpetrator was best. Well, for now, at least.

He was also not fully serious about what he was saying, that much I could tell. This man was hurting inside. I knew because I always had that expression, staring back at me in the mirror. The sorrow of being alone. Even so... I...

"I’m sorry, prince Alistair, but how would I know how Loki is in bed? Is there a book for that or am I missing something?" I asked, smiling at him the same way.

Zoe and Emma held themselves off. Though the glares they were giving him were unique. Unlike Loki, who hated my smile, Alistair came closer towards me. It was almost as if it attracted him.

Our similarities were calling to him. Of course, he would recognize a platonic smile, like mine. The prince's eyes narrowed, smiling softly at me. Suddenly, he slowly got closer to me. His black hair covered part of his right eye.

"Ah, so you haven’t—" Alistair began, only to stop when a black figure suddenly got in between us.

It triggered him to pull away from me. I had never been so glad to see a black creature in my life before. It was Loki's familiar, who had its wings spread wide between me and Alistair. Though it levitated more than actually using its wings.

"Eli?!" Alistair growled.

Loki walked over towards us from the side. He wore the same black combat shoes and pants as Alistair. But had a sky-blue blouse and black vest on. Behind him were Oz and Leo, who I was not ecstatic to see.

"Alistair, I know you are butt hurt after losing to me yet again. But you need to back off my maid," Loki announced, followed by Oswald, who still seemed tired from earlier and wore different clothing.

He was in jeans and a green blouse. It was probably because he was not part of the sword sparing in the morning. Hesitantly, Alistair took a step away from me, gazing towards the intruder that had ruined the moment.

This prince was unaware of how close he was to losing his life. I was good at hiding my emotions. So, he did not know how close he was to not existing. If he had gotten closer, I would not have been able to stop myself.

Even though I resonated with the poor prince's loneliness. The thought of a mortal like him touching me was disgusting. I was a goddess. Something revered. Only a select few could touch me when it came to the other gender.

Especially when it was for sexual advances. Even though... I felt this way.

Why... am I fine with Loki? This morning... his lick... Why? What’s this vampire doing to me?

Leo's presence bothered me to the point I felt like I had to be wary of him, too. Something I hoped to avoid. I guess I wished he left when Rem did.

Does this mean she was around?

He was her second child, and he was still here. The last thing I needed was Rem coming by the hall.

Fucking hybrid...

It was the last thing that came through my mind before I saw something interesting. Leo was staring at Zoe, who had not even noticed the boys' arrival yet. No, my two sisters were glaring at Alistair with deadly intent.

Somehow they had not broken out of place, though. Perhaps they had more self-control than I thought. Probably more than I did.

"I saw her waiting here alone. I just wanted to say hi and let her know she has a better option than you, little brother." Alistair scowled at Loki, who smirked in return.

However, instead of letting them fight it out. I grabbed onto the floating familiar, Eli, before pulling him out of my way and into my chest. Instinctively, he shifted to a different, smaller size. Surprisingly, I found his scales almost comforting smooth.

The heat that radiated from his body was also interesting. Soothing… At that moment, everyone in the room shifted their eyes to me. People did not grab shadow demons with their bare hands, even if they were familiars.

They tended to be zealous about who touched them and such. But to me, they were tamed compared to the ones that came from the soul cairn. These posed no harm to me, at least in how I feared.

Surprised by my sudden touch, the little snake turned to gaze at me. His slender tongue whipped out of his mouth, retreating inside. Even though he seemed adorable, he was not my target. Slowly, I gazed up to meet with Alistair's eyes.

"I mean no disrespect when I say this. But I don’t see the better options you’re talking about, prince Alistair." I pointed out, letting go of Eli.

It triggered Loki to chuckle. Alistair's eyes twitched, as his face seemed to warp in anger. Another flash of pain came from his eyes when they glossed.

"Watch it, doll. I was being nice. I can take you if I want to." Alistair warned, like a child throwing a tantrum.

I tried hard not to smirk at his remark.

Take me? A mortal... That would be something to see.

As long as they did not do the binding they were nothing to me. And the only one who knew it other than the dead and living gods was my mother. Or at least I thought.

"If that’s what you think and want, prince. You can surely try. I don’t mind." I smiled, not caring about his threat.

It caused his orbs to give off a blue hue. It was like a twig snapped within him. First losing to his younger brother, and now this defiant girl. I would have tipped toed better if I cared for his emotions, but I did not.

He did not mean a thing to me. Even if he had the same emotions I struggled with.

"Why, you little bitch…" Alistair snarled, reaching for me.

I stood there with no fear in my eyes, knowing he probably wanted to drag me into his room. If it was to have his way with me or abuse me, I would not know. Though, to be honest, he seemed to want to scare me.

Probably something on the moment's spur.

Either way, that would be something I knew would never happen. But what happened next surprised me when Oz cast a silent spell, preventing Alistair from reaching me by freezing the angered prince in place.

Loki grabbed his arm at the same time. He seemed to use his full strength, too. His grip caused Alistair to wince in pain a bit. Unlike me, his bones were not as brittle.

"Enough. Touch my toy and you’ll piss me off, brother." Loki hissed.

“Let me go!” Alistair growled.

Oz released the spell that froze him, allowing him to pull out of Loki's grasp. The frustration reflected in his eyes was obvious. However, all I could do was stand there surprised the twins had protected me.

I thought they would have let me get dragged by him. Then again, the bond would not have allowed it. Or perhaps that was what I wanted to believe.

"Safe for the time being, little lamb." Alistair glared, seeing me as a trophy to be won after the confrontation.

Though he would not continue to fight today. No, he was tired of doing so. I did not know what type of day he had, nor would I ask. Slowly, I tilted my head, turning to Loki, who watched his brother go.

"Lamb? Is he supposed to be a lion I’m scared of?" I sighed, unaware I actually voiced it out.

It caused Loki to snicker upon hearing my question., Alistair shot another glare towards me, slamming the door to his room. It seemed someone had anger issues, too. Then again, we were a pair of broken souls.

"Oi, sweetheart, shut it before you bite more than you can handle." Loki continued to crackle.

I gazed at my hand that contained the ring. It did not shock me. I was blissfully unaware I had been rude.

"But I haven’t been shocked yet. So that means I haven’t been disrespectful. Right?" I mumbled, pointing out the obvious.

Loki continued to chuckle.

"Oi, that means you didn’t think you were disrespecting the prince. The ring works with your psychological responses. So, if you feel you disrespected them, it’ll activate. Usually, people succumb when they get stared at as he did to you." Loki informed, enjoying the moment I had caused.

Shit... this is difficult.

If it truly depended on me, then I had to be more careful. But at this moment I could not help myself. Especially after hearing Loki laugh.

"Was that him wanting to be scary?" I queried, unable to understand how I was supposed to feel fear.

He shook his head, unable to believe I was not scared of what happened. After all, I was a normal human. Yet I did not fear a royal vampire. Though that also intrigued Loki. I guess to me, all mortals were like ants.

Mere bugs.

There was only one mortal I feared, and that was...

"For a human, you surely have a lot of confidence. Or you’re incredibly dense." Loki noted, heartily smiling at me.

His familiar got cozy on his neck once again. It was a beautiful snake with those scales and deep blue eyes. The feathered black wings were awe-striking, too.

"Am I?" I mumbled, gazing at Eli's beauty before his eyes met with mine.

It triggered me to shift them back towards Loki.

"Yeah, you do. Come, let’s go." Loki declared, suddenly grabbing my wrist.

He pulled me out of the group we were in, only to be stopped by Emma stepping in front of us. She was not happy that he was about to bolt out of here with us.

"Wait! You’re taking us too!" Emma announced, staring at the vampire.

They did not trust him at all, which was good. He was a troublesome vampire, after all. But I also did not need a babysitter.

"What? No, I’m not. My brother here will keep you company if you wish." Loki scoffed.

It caused Oswald to be caught off guard. All his blue purplish orbs did was call for the bed. The poor boy was a walking corpse the entire day. One would think a necromancer had brought him back to life.

And those bags under his eyes were blacker than his familiar.

"What?! No! I want to sleep!" Oz hissed at Loki, who winked at his brother to save him this once from the witches.

Zoe was quick to catch on when she spoke up.

"You aren’t taking Vivian away from us!" she complained, pointing at the rogue twin.

Funny enough, the little Lycan next to Oswald was still in awe of her. His crimson orbs seemed locked on the young girl, who was a year older than him. A blessing for me.

"Oh? Is that a challenge?" Loki smirked, snickering.

"Watch me," were the last words the vampire sprouted, picking me up into his arms.

A second later, he suddenly bolted out of there. The sudden rush of air caused me to hold on to him for dear life. I wore baggy grey long pants and a pink blouse with long sleeves that covered up to my neck. Everything that happened was so fast that by the time he stopped, we were far from the castle grounds.

In fact, we were in a park in Night city that was by the edge of the town. Setting me down, Loki smirked at me playfully. Unfortunately, I needed a moment to situate myself. My stomach was not handling the sudden burst of speed.

Everything happened so fast that I could barely hold my dinner down. Something the troublesome vampire noticed.

"You okay there, sweetheart?" he worried.

I seemed green and dazed from the entire thing. Feeling this unwell was unusual for me, but then again, I had never been at blinding speeds like that. If I needed to go anywhere, my father would use his shadow magic to open up portals to go through.

I had never been in an airship or any other type of transportation, either.

"I think I need a moment," I mumbled, trying to get back on my feet.

Sadly, the only thing I found was a stumble that sent me straight to the floor. The only thing that stopped me from slamming into the ground was Loki, who caught me by my waist. He pulled me back to him.

Why is the world still a blur?

This was something new. Who knew a goddess could get motion sickness?

"Sorry, to get away from those two, I didn’t hold back. I forget some humans are fragile for sudden movements like that." Loki seemed apologetic.

I struggled to gaze at him, only to see the same playful smirk planted on his face from earlier. Of course, he was remorseful to a point.

He’s enjoying this. Shit... What an annoying prince you are. Why does he have to be my protector!? Couldn't it have been anyone else!?

Worst yet was the feeling that was swelling in my chest.

Why... He’s too close!

"It’s okay, just give me a moment to adjust. I’ve never gone that fast in my life." I continued to mumble.

Surprisingly, Loki led me towards a bench near us. I did not know what to expect from him this time, but he seemed to treat me gentler than the previous night. There were a couple of people walking by us too, but few. It was night already.

The night sky in Night city was darker than usual, but the stars were visible at least. The lights that they used during the night were different, too. They shifted from bright white to mellow yellow at night.

"Take your time," he helped me down onto the bench.

Closing my eyes, I tried to get into place. I never expected him to want to come out of the castle.

Just what are you planning to do with me this time?

If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.

"Sorry for slowing things for you, my prince." I apologized.

It caused him to click his tongue.

"Loki," he suddenly announced, catching me off guard.

Had my title annoyed him?

"What?" I mumbled, taking a peek at him.

He stared at the sphere fountain in front of us. The ball was made of the water that floated above the pool under it. All of the decorative stone was made from white marvel. It also had different lights that shined inside the orb.

"When we’re alone, call me Loki." He clarified.

His gaze did not shift from the fountain. It probably was not his intention, but I felt a warmth in my chest. I could not stop myself from feeling somewhat hopeful for companionship at a superficial level.

That would be the best scenario, although very unlikely. If he saw me as a friend, then I could be closer, but if he did not. Well, I could not allow myself to get ahead of myself. Perhaps he had come here for a chat with me.

Had he noticed I meant him no harm? I could only hope.

"Okay, Loki." I agreed to his silly request.

It triggered him to turn to me, smirking playfully. His orbs were almost as beautiful as the sky above us. I could not help myself when my heart skipped a beat. Instantly, I shifted my gaze from him.

"I like the way my name sounds in your voice." Loki teased.

A soft sigh left my lips. It was not long before a frown formed on them, rolling my eyes at him.

Does he have to flirt to live or is he still testing me? Is that something...

"Well, I guess you’ll be hearing it for a while. So, get used to it." I shrugged a bit.

A pleasant time was not why he brought me here, though. That much I knew.

"Why did you bring me here?" I asked.

He sat next to me on the bench.

"To talk without prying eyes or ears." The vampire answered, gazing towards the fountain that shifted its light to a smooth pink.

It was pleasing to the eyes. A beautiful thing to behold.

"If it’s a private conversation that you want. Wouldn't your room be better than a public area?" I tilted my head, confused.

For a moment, he shook his head, shifting his gaze onto me.

"No, I feel like there are ears in those walls. While here... there aren't any I can't see or hear." Loki replied, crossing his legs, leaning back into the chair.

Sadly, I could not relate. We should have gone somewhere more secluded if what he wanted was to speak. An alley would make more sense. Although vampires with their hearing would make a mess of it, anyway.

"I see..." I mumbled, fidgeting with my hair that dripped down my shoulders.

"Vivian, why did you come here for?" Loki questioned.

I shifted my gaze from him up towards the sky. The celestial planes were beautiful tonight. Or at least I thought they were.

"Personal reasons," I answered plainly.

It triggered Loki to grab onto my hand, prompting me to glance at him instead of the deep blue sky that rivaled the ocean. It was rare for me to find myself under it too. The coven always had to keep moving.

Being hunted and all made simple things difficult.

"Personal? Like what? Money? Family? If it isn’t to climb the ladder in ranks, then what is it? You rejected my offer to you know... Then my elder brother's offer. So, if it isn’t us. Why would you want to serve here out of all the places?" he continued to prod.

I noticed this was another test, just more direct than the last one.

"I came here because I want to live," I answered honestly.

Yet not fully. For a moment, the vampire seemed to not be able to read me. Eli slid down his neck and onto my lap, triggering me to trace my fingers down its back. This would be the only shadow demon I would allow to touch me.

A tingling sensation formed on my skin, though.

"To live? Now that’s a new one." Loki mumbled, gazing down at his familiar.

The little snake was cozily coiled in my lap. I probably should have shoved him off. If I were a normal person, but for some reason, this one made me feel at ease. Perhaps because he was tiny.

"You can choose to believe me or not, but that’s the truth." I smiled, feeling the true emptiness of those words.

Even though I wanted to survive no matter the cost. My life would be a lonely one. The moment that thought left my mind; Eli turned to me. His little blue eyes sparkled in the night, too.

"Weird, he seems to like you," Loki announced.

It triggered the snake to glare, hissing a bit. Even though he showed aggression, I did not feel fear.

"Her fingers feel so nice on my skin. Well, compared to you fools, I’d have her every day." Eli scoffed.

The familiar's sudden words caught the vampire by surprise. The snake rarely ever spoke up while there were strangers about. I guess the little snake felt a kinship with me. He was not wrong. Far from it, but I had to disguise it.

"Missing a female's touch?" I simpered.

Eli tilted his head, nodding slightly.

"Wait... You aren’t freaked out by a talking familiar?" Loki asked.

I shook my head, shrugging. Softly, I traced my fingertips around Eli's head. It was so smooth too. Pleasantly so. Orenz was much rougher and less friendly in comparison. My father never let me near him either way.

He always kept him invisible to everyone, too. Even though I always knew where he was. I guess... perhaps because he did not come on a smaller size. I never gave him a shot, though. Yes, my birth dad had my other father connected to him. Fitting, I suppose.

Mother wanted to use Dad and Lilith to link with my other parents, whose remnants lingered in the soul cairn. Sadly, it was only successful with Dad. Lilith failed to link with Aster, my other mother.

The only reason they did this was to protect me. But I suspected the real reason was much greater than that. After all, he was just a shadow of what he used to be. So would be Aster. Sadly, trying to link her to Lilith destroyed her soul.

A thing that only happened when creating god artifacts

"Eli’s a shadow demon, no? It’s normal for them to speak. Although..." I answered, forgetting for a moment who I was speaking to.

Luckily, I caught myself, stopping before finishing my thought.

Shit... Normal people are usually unaware of this, Vivian. You know this!

I gazed over at Loki, who seemed even more unsure of me.

Fuck, I slipped!

"How do you know that?" he continued to query.

I turned back towards Eli, trying to fix what I messed up. Usually, people knew about shadow demons, but most had never seen one.

So, how would a simple girl like me know about them and identify them? Shit... I tripped. Was this his plan all along?

"These demons usually terrify me, but yours doesn’t," I replied, hoping Loki would drop it there.

Before he could ask another thing, Eli spoke.

"Well, fear not, my lady. I won’t harm you, unlike this idiot." Eli snickered.

Loki’s eyes narrowed as his brows did the same. Little did I know, I was about to witness something that usually happened with family.

"Oi, what are—" he tried to speak up only to be interrupted by Eli continuing.

"If you only knew what he thinks half of the—" Eli tried to speak but was grabbed by Loki mid-way.

Annoyance showed clearly in the vampire’s expression. It made me wonder what the snake was about to reveal. I never thought I would be so curious about them.

"Oi, what did I tell you about sharing my thoughts with anyone else? How about I murder you instead, Eli?" Loki snapped, shaking the poor snake.

It looked like the vampire was strangling him. A soft giggle erupted, unable to hold it in, causing them both to stop. They were such a silly pair. I guess... I had to hide the lie in the truth. A lesson my father taught me well.

"When I was smaller, this big shadow beast attacked me. It wanted me in its grasp. I still don’t know why, but it did. It was terrifying being in its mercy, but luckily, I was saved in the nick of time by a Cerberus officer.” I paused, gazing towards the fountain.

“That’s why I can’t seem to forget the way they look. I can spot them miles away. Funny enough, I also wanted to learn more about them. So, I read many of your grandmother's research." I answered Loki's previous question.

I knew it would linger in his mind if I did not squash it. The last thing I needed was him trying to do a background check on the girl that did not exist. Although I was sure he already tried and found nothing.

"I see," Loki mumbled, letting go of Eli, who hissed at him.

At that moment, a shooting star appeared in the sky, prompting my eyes to widen. I pointed towards it allowing, Loki to see it too. Standing up from the bench, I took a few steps towards it, closing my eyes, clasping my hands together near my bosom.

A silly thing to do, yet I cast my wish on it. It was simple rock falling into our realm, but I still wished on it. Loki walked over towards me when I opened my eyes. The falling meteorite was gone.

"What did you wish for?" the vampire asked, causing a small smile to rise on my lips.

It was not even forced like it usually was.

"For you to live a long and healthy life, Loki," I answered, gazing towards where the star vanished.

I felt somewhat empty inside. If he lived, I also would, but for what?

What’s my reason for living? I have none.

Confused, Loki grabbed onto my shoulders, forcing me to face him. He seemed to be a bit ticked off, reflecting distrust in his orbs again.

"Why would you wish that?" he growled.

For a moment, I could see his fangs when he said that. I seemed to have been too honest once again.

Shit... I... don’t know how to speak to you.

"You showed me such a pretty sky tonight, even got to see one of those rare falling meteorites. So, I thought, I would give something back to you." I answered, smiling, grabbing onto his arms.

He seemed to not understand me at all.

"Why?" Loki mumbled, not knowing what to expect from me.

I freed myself from his grip, turning towards the fountain. This world was beautiful for anyone else that was not doomed like me. He was a free bird while I was caged to be alone. A life sentence.

"You deserve a life full of wonders, Loki. Is it wrong to wish that on someone?" I asked, producing his expression to shift to one of pure bewilderment.

He was used to reading everyone around him, but I was not as simple.

"Why not waste it in your longevity instead? I really don’t get you." Loki sighed, softly shaking his head.

Pulling away from him, I walked closer towards the fountain. To see the beauty my eyes could perceive. This was the only reason I wanted to live. It was all I had, and he showed me two tonight.

I thought it was a fair exchange, but I guess I caused him to feel uncomfortable.

"Sorry, I didn’t know you would get all weirded out by it. Wishes are usually empty gestures either way. Please forget about it." I smiled, trying to backtrack.

Loki's eyes narrowed again, gazing around us. When he saw there was no one around, he grabbed me by my wrist, guiding me over towards the fountain. Suddenly, he sat on the marble by the edge of the water.

There, he pulled me into his lap. Before I knew it, I straddled him. Any slight movement would cause us to fall into the water. The vampire held my hips in place, setting my heart to race once again.

"That pisses me off. Empty gestures, empty smiles. You seem to have them all, Vivian." Loki warned, tucking my hair behind my ear.

The sensation his fingers left on my skin was bothersome.

Why... do you have this effect on me?

Not that I would let him know. There was no reason for him to know. A great idea popped into my mind at that moment, though. A way out of this. All while taking my revenge on him. I could be playful too.

"Are you going to teach me to be better?" I asked, tapping my fingers on his shoulders.

I guess this was supposed to be a romantic fall that every girl would go for. I mean, the scenery was beautiful, and my heart did flutter. But I would not let him win.

"Depends... Do you want me to?" Loki whispered in my ear, sending shivers down my spine.

I tugged myself slightly away to meet with his gaze. He was beautiful and perfect.

Too bad I...

Not that he would want me for me, anyway. No one would once they knew who I was. Holding myself steady so I would not fall into the water, I bit my bottom lip, getting close to him.

The hand that was on my hip moved up to the back of my neck. His other one traced my scalp with his fingers. The sensation it left was almost too good to resist. Even so, I...

"I would rather you don’t." I huffed, shoving Loki into the water behind him.

Eli avoided the splash that came for his other half by floating towards me. My eyes could not believe what the saw when I opened after the push. The vampire sat in the pool, not knowing what happened.

Instead of a kiss or hug, he got a cold shower. However, the shock in his face threw me over the edge. I could not stop from laughing loudly. His light blue shirt was stuck on his skin too, turning darker.

"What the fuck, Vivian?!" Loki growled, looking like a wet dog who was not expecting a bath.

Sadly, I could not help it. His expression was just too much for me to handle. Especially when he deserved it after trying to tease me. It was a good payback. Too beautiful.

"Oh, no, did the little bad vampire get a surprise from me?" I laughed, unable to stop.

Loki sat there, stunned by what was happening in front of him. Yet I…

"Oh... I can't." I chortled, tears welling up in my eyes from the laughter that radiated out of me.

I had never lost it like this. A chuckle here and there, but this was new. It felt good. Loki's expression changed the moment he saw me laughing wholeheartedly, too. It was almost contagious. He also chuckled too, unable to stay angry at what I did.

After all, he kind of asked for it by placing me in that situation.

"Okay, okay, I get it." He bit into his lip, trying to hold the crackles, getting up.

I could not control myself, though. I had not laughed like this since I was twelve, perhaps longer. If ever at all. My cheeks and stomach hurt, yet I could not stop it. I did not even know one could cry while laughing.

These tears, though, were not of pain, but pure bliss. A new thing for me.

"But, but your face was—" I continued to crackle, unable to stop.

Having had enough of my burst, Loki rolled his eyes, suddenly grabbing onto one of my arms. A second later, he pulled me into the water with him. First was the sudden rush of cold water that hit me. But what struck me the most was how somehow my assailant had also tumbled into the water with me.

He did that probably because he did not want me to injure myself. So, he used himself as a cushion even though it meant getting wet twice. This vampire was more gentle than I first thought.

Sweet…

For a moment, I felt my heart flutter.

Oh, no... I can’t.

Eli floated next to us with an expression that yelled, unimpressed. However, Loki chuckling was the only thing that remained. I silently gazed at him. It was obvious he enjoyed my expression now. It was a sight to behold.

I never thought I could make anyone laugh like he was doing. Another warmth rose within me, finding myself in awe of him. His expression was also another sight to witness.

No... I can’t!

"It isn't as funny when you’re the wet one now, is it?" Loki snickered, tracing his fingers on my cheek.

The warmth from them was enough to snap me out a bit, but not fully. I broke again crackling. He was as drenched as I was. Yet I could not stop this emotion that was rushing out of me.

"No, it’s still funny," I assured.

He could not help but smile back at me. His expression again turned gentle. Those eyes...

Why are they calling for me?

"You kids are going to get sick if you stay in there," Eli warned.

However, Loki did not take his eyes off me, and I of him. The soft smile on his lips was stealing my senses.

"So, you have life in those expressions of yours." Loki smiled tenderly.

That was when I noticed a grave mistake. I had allowed myself to act like a normal girl when I was not. Instantly, I froze when Loki reached for me, tucking my hair behind my ears again. The fall had made it come towards my face.

This time, I shivered because of the sudden warmth from his fingers. At that moment, his eyes closed for a second, shaking his head.

"Shit, we should get out before you catch a cold." Loki sighed, noticing my body's slight tremble.

I nodded to his suggestion to leave.

Damn it! I’m really stupid to allow myself to act like that. Be more careful, Vivian.

Loki grabbed my hand, helping me to my feet. The warmth I felt rushed into me. Surely, this boy was my bane.

What’s happening to me? Why do I feel this way?!

All he was doing was leading me out of the fountain's water. Yet my emotions threaten to erupt. My heart was already in turmoil when two others approached us from the side.

"Oh, look if it isn't, Prince Loki." A man announced from the side, startling me.

Instinctively, Loki pulled me into his arms. He seemed to get defensive because of their approach. It was two men I had never seen before. Then again, I did not know anyone in this city.

"You didn’t tell us you were coming downtown today." The same man noted.

Loki held me closer to his chest. It was warm. I could tell it was two vampires that approached us. The way their eyes glowed at night in the distance gave them away.

Are they the prince's friends?

However, Loki's demeanor seemed off for it to be just that.

"Hey, why are you so quiet?" the green-eyed vampire asked.

Soon after, he spotted me in Loki's arms.

"Oh ho, what’s that? Is that a treat you have for us?" the brown-eyed vampire followed the green one.

Loki clicked his tongue, noticing they were not going away.

A treat? Did he bring me here for just that? Surely it isn’t... Right? Or did he have a change of mind? I... No, the men said they didn’t know... but... what if I didn’t answer correctly? Would Loki...

"Not this time. Move along." My vampire finally answered them, holding me close.

I held onto his shirt, feeling vulnerable after letting go in a way I had not in years. I was not ready to deal with them. No, I was wide open. My heart's doors were not closing fast enough. I was not recovering.

"Hm, that pretty little thing must be something if you aren’t willing to share her." The brown-eyed man commented, triggering Eli to hiss. That caused one man to flinch away. Though the other one seemed intent on getting to know me.

"I said move along," Loki repeated in a harsher tone.

I felt off by the whole thing. A familiar yet foreign feeling surged within me when he said share.

Had I been passed around before, too? Why are their words bothering me so much? Get a grip!

The moment that thought passed through my mind. A memory also rose in a blur.

Give me the book!

No, it is mine!

The pages are mine!

Stop it! It hurts... It hurts...

Huh? What’s this feeling?

The memory caused me to flinch, catching one of the vampire's eyes.

"Hey sweet thing, what’s your name?" the man tilted his head towards me.

Loki seemed to get more ticked off because of it. He had not permitted them to look at me. Especially when I seemed startled by them.

"I said move along." Loki snarled.

This time, Eli also grew a few sizes larger. Instantly, the men backed off.

“Sorry man, I didn’t know you were that serious!” they ran away soon after.

Familiars could change shapes. They could get larger than they were or smaller. Their proper sizes were unknown, though. My body trembled where I stood. I did not know what to feel anymore.

Anger? Sad? Pain? What did I expect? For him to be my friend? No, he’s probably just like the others. He came here to sell me to those people. Just like... my past life. No one will ever want me for me.

Noticing my trembles, Loki gazed down at me.

"Are you cold?" the vampire worried.

I snapped at his fake concern. That was the least of my issues. The cold only fueled the array of emotions that I was trying to hold on to.

"So, that’s why you brought me here? What happened? Did you have a change of heart?" I mumbled into his chest.

Bewildered, he tried to explain himself. "What? No, I—"

I was tired of excuses. There was no way I would allow him to defend himself. Using all my strength, I shoved him down onto the floor. There I scowled at him.

He’s no protector. No, he just...

I did not know what expression I had on my face. However, it caused words to refuse to leave Loki's mouth. I felt like I was breaking. Cracks on my mask were visible. The memories that threatened to surface.

This morning, I thought I had gotten closer to him, but it seems it was the same as last night. Just this time, the vampire was not getting his brother involved. I was a thing to pass around to him. Just like the gods before him, too.

I was nothing of value. Nothing worth loving and protecting. I could never have any friends. Or anything more.

Nothing... I can’t have anything!

Yet I wanted it all.

"It seems no matter who they are. Men will be men." My voice broke.

Disgusting pigs… If only I could erase you!

I grabbed onto Loki's shirt in my fist, straddling him just like I had by the fountain when he pulled me into his lap. Although this time, it was all me. He was seeing me break and I could not stop it.

Why... does it hurt so much?

That memory, the pain in my chest, would not go away.

"Wait, Vivian, I promise. I didn’t—" Loki tried to explain, but honestly, my emotions were flooding over my senses and a rational sense of thought.

I knew he had protected me just then. Even so, I was at the mercy of my emotions. The pain that always wanted to consume me. I wished I could kill him and end this. But I could not. His fate was linked with mine.

So, whatever emotions I developed for him...

"To you all. I’m just a piece of meat for the taking, aren't I?" I asked.

The poor vampire’s eyes widen, realizing how upset I was. Seeing me this unsettled was something he did not expect. After all, I had been so good at hiding these emotions yesterday when it was just the twins.

"Well, then take me, Loki! That’s what you want, no? That’s what everyone wants! To take me and use me like some tool before throwing me away!" I snapped at him.

Make me hate you.

At that moment, he seemed to realize I meant no harm to him. That I suffered the same as him, if not worse. We were not that different after all. The vampire regretted all the words he erupted the prior day.

In that instant, his eyes turned gentle. He realized I knew no one would ever want me for me rather than my body. Much like him. Even though he did not know I was the divine that caused his mother's death. I...

It hurt so much. Tears stung my eyes, but for a different reason than before. This time, though, I would not allow them to flow. No one could see me cry in agony. Loki seemed at a loss for words, gazing at my expression.

He did not know how chaotic my thoughts were. Oh, how he wished he could know.

"Vivi—" the apologetic vampire began, but I had enough.

I did not want his words. If he would not take me, then I would give myself to him. Perhaps then that would end this stupid madness. All I wanted was to protect him. Before he could even finish my name, I grabbed the back of his head, planting my lips on his.

Closing my eyes, I held them there, allowing his warmth to radiate into my lips and body. His were soft and tender. They left a feeling I never knew I would know again. It was not long until I pulled away, leaving a stunned Loki in my wake.

His eyes were wide open, sitting there shocked by what I did. A single tear escaped me.

Why… did it feel so right?

"I’ve never done that before. So, I must suck. Don't I?" I whimpered, trying to hold everything in.

Loki was something I could never get rid of, but it was too much.

Why did I have to be a tool to be passed around? A thing no one wants.

I did not want to be a means to an end. The only thing I desired was to be a person, but that was forbidden for me, too. More silly thoughts filled my mind, sitting there in silence. The quiet used to be so pleasant for me, but right now.

I wanted to hear anything from him.

"Hey… say something, damn it!" I snapped at the vampire, who cracked out of his shock, pulling me into his chest.

His heart pounded as hard as mine did.

"Shit!" Loki cursed under his breath, holding me close.

I felt his chest rise and fall with each breath. It was soothing.

"Vivian, I swear I came here with you to talk. I hoped you would slip if you were alone with me. But not this." He assured.

His voice cracked, making me realize what I had done. My emotions had twist the moment into what I thought it was. I...

"I swear, Vivian. I wouldn’t do that to you like that. I only resort to that when I get the stalker bitches who don’t back off after being pranced around in… Well, what I had planned for you yesterday, but you rejected me. I swear. Please believe me." He promised.

I stayed still for a moment, trying to hold in what spilled before I nodded slightly. Gently, he released me.

"I see, I misunderstood." I mumbled, wiping my face with my sleeves, gazing away from Loki.

After that massive stupidity, how could I face him. Perhaps I ruined everything with that action.

Shit. I have to...

"It’s okay. I did something fucked up yesterday. It’s only reasonable you'd think that." Loki tried to dismiss the entire event.

I shook my head. It was not fine. I had let myself feel. A massive slip. No, a fall like he wanted. Sadly, I dragged him down with me.

"No, it isn’t. I’m sorry for assaulting you like that." I apologized, gazing away from him.

He must have felt so disgusted by it. I had probably done it all wrong, too. The moment those words left my lips, the vampire grabbed my chin, pulling me to face him. Before I knew it, he closed his eyes, leaning into a light kiss like earlier.

At that moment, I froze in place as I did not know what to do. Even though I had started the first one, this I did not expect. It was an innocent kiss. Too sweet for my heart to bear. Sadly, I knew it had no meaning behind it.

Though, the feeling of his lips on mine was extraordinary. It was like fireworks exploded within me. Nothing like when I initiated it. Gently, he tugged away from me.

"There we’re even." Loki simpered, licking his lips.

His cheeks flushed pink. My face was probably the same. I found myself at a loss for words. Luckily, I quickly cleared my throat, shaking my head again. My expression was unknown, but we were not even.

Not even close.

"Far from that," I mumbled, feeling my cheeks burn hot.

Yet, I had no one else to blame but myself. I had to be more careful. These emotions growing within were hard to deny. The attraction was there. I surely could not stop myself from falling for the vampire after this.

Well, if he kept being that way. I had to stop it.

"Hm... How so?" Loki asked, still flustered.

I went to say something only to stop, gazing towards the ground with my cheeks puffed.

How will I ever face him with the same poker face?

At least, all the horrible feelings subsided. Yet they left something worse behind. I had to recover and hide the way he made me feel. It was the best for him.

"I would have to make you choose between a lingerie and a three-way for us to be even," I grumbled, not knowing how to put a lid on the emotions that were spilling out of me.

All the while Loki was witnessing part of the real me spill out. Not that he seemed to mind it, either. I would have said he was enjoying it.

"Ah, I look forward to that," he smirked playfully.

I went to counter him, but all that left me was a sneeze. It triggered him to stand up and reach down for me. This time, he was serious.

"Let’s go back before you get sick." Loki declared.

For some reason, he seemed so bright. I hesitantly grabbed onto his hand, which he used to get me up with ease. Letting go, I tried to clean myself, attempting to steady my crazy heart. If it only would shut up. It needed to stop.

"Oh, Vivian." Loki voiced, startling me.

Slowly I shifted my glance towards him, only to notice him gazing at me. His eyes… I felt my heart stop.

"Y-yes?" I stuttered, not knowing what he wanted from me.

He smiled, setting my heart ablaze. That was unfair.

Please... stop... my heart... can’t take it. Be mean to me.

"You didn’t suck. You’re just innocent." He reassured.

Hearing that made me feel like I was in the clouds. Eli coiled around his neck once again.

"Shut up," I grumbled.

This feeling was poison. Yet how could I stop it? My words caused him to chuckle. His voice was tickling my ears. This had to end. I rolled my eyes, moving away from him.

"Fine, I’m leaving then! I don’t need to stay with such a handful, flirtatious prince!" I pouted, unable to recover from the spill of my emotions.

Loki suddenly picked me up in his arms, preventing me from leaving. The sudden motion caused me to grab onto him for dear life.

"Now, if you walk like that, you’ll get sick. If that happens, I won’t have you as my alarm clock tomorrow. So, hang on, sweetheart." Loki smirked, gazing down at me.

My poor heart raced faster because of it.

Sly... Wait... If he...

"Wait, Loki!" I worried.

Last time I felt like I was going to hurl. This time, surely, I would empty my stomach if he did so. In response, he chuckled, almost as if he had read my mind.

"Don’t worry, I’ll fly you there this time," Loki assured, gazing up to the sky.

Wait, did he just say fly?!

Eli floated once again. However, the prospect of it sounded anything but fine. I had never flown in my entire life. That world was reserved for the birds, not me.

"No, I can’t…" I trailed off the moment I saw feathers fall around him.

Something I thought I would never see happened before my eyes. In an instance majestic, pure white wings sprouted from the vampire's back. The last time I saw them, they had been covered in blood, but this time they were snowy white.

It almost matched his silvery-white hair. Feathers gathered around us when he stretched them out further than I could see from his arms. It left me in utter awe.

"Like what you see?" Loki teased, noticing my amazement.

I had seen nothing more beautiful before. He was unique. Truly exceptional. This boy...

"Magnificent," I breathed, reaching for his wing, though I quickly pulled away.

That world isn’t mine.

My words triggered his cheeks to turn a shade of pink. I gazed up to meet with his eyes, not knowing he was flustered yet again.

Has no one ever called him that before? Or is it my expression?

"Uh... That’s a first." Loki chuckled.

That was when I noticed we were already floating in the air. It caused my heart to drop, clinging to him for dear life again.

"Wait!" I squealed, not ready for what was coming.

Soon after those words left me, we were in the air and on our way towards the castle.

"Don’t panic. I won’t drop you." He assured.

“That isn’t the issue!!” I huffed, closing my eyes, feeling the night breeze in my hair.

Surprisingly, it was a nice feeling. But what came next…

"Ah, don’t close your eyes. You’ll miss the view." He chuckled.

Unsure of what was happening, I opened my eyes reluctantly. The moment the light shined into my orbs, I got to see the city below us. He flew at a leisurely pace to not cause me any more stress, too.

The city lights below seemed like stars from above. Loki showed me a world I had never seen before. One only reserved for winged creatures such as himself, and it was a beautiful one. Though, what stole my heart that day was his soul.

And it was pure as snow.