“As quickly as I can,” he smiled. “Nothing in the world wil keep me from my Queen.”

I threw the covers off me and went into the closet to get dressed. We were having a whole ceremony to see Loki off, so I had to choose a nice gown, and I’d even have to wear my crown. I avoided it for the most part, since it made me feel sily, but I had to put it on for formal occasions.

Loki was already dressed for the day. I’d felt him get up about an hour ago. I kept sleeping, though, since I’d been so tired lately.

I’d like to say it was because of how worn out Loki had left me on our honeymoon, and while that was definitely part of the reason, it wasn’t al of it.

“How are you feeling this morning?” Loki asked. He leaned against the closet door, watching me as I puled on a dark emerald gown.

“Other than being sad, I’m okay.” I slipped the dress on, but I couldn’t zip it up myself, so I turned my back to him. “A little help, please.”

“You realy ought to get a lady in waiting or something,” Loki said as he struggled with the zipper. “These things are impossible to get on.”

“That’s what husbands are for,” I teased. He continued to yank at the zipper, and it finaly went up. But I knew what the problem was, why my dresses were so hard to get on anymore.

From behind me, Loki reached around me, holding his hand against the snugness in my middle, and he kissed my shoulder.

“We’re going to have to tel them soon,” Loki said, hugging me.

“I know,” I sighed. “But not until you get back, okay? I don’t want to have to deal with al the talking and questions unless you’re with me.” I turned around so I was facing him. “That means you’l have to hurry back soon.”

“As if I needed another reason to convince me.” He smiled and playfuly tugged at my silver curl, the strand of hair that refused to stay in place anymore.

Loki kissed me deeply, holding me to him, and he stil made my knees go weak. I kept expecting that feeling to fade, but every time he touched me, I felt it al the same.

We went down to the throne room for the ceremony. Sara was already waiting for us, along with Finn working as head guard and Tove working as the Chancelor. Sara had been here since last night, so she could ride with Loki in a gesture of solidarity.