Yeah, I'm still alive and working on this story. It's turned into a beast and I don't want to force things if I don't have to. So, to recap, Jade told Thor to sod off and isn't talking to him, the ship is preparing to arrive at Bacarra and the Avengers have no idea what is going on.

Hope it was worth the wait.

Enjoy!

Chapter 17

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Three days passed before Thor did something about Jade's silence. He had only gotten a few glances of her in passing and she looked miserable in his opinion. While he was more patient than he had ever been in his life Thor was slowly reaching his limits. He missed her and they would be arriving on Bicarra shortly. That last thing he wanted was this hanging over them when they needed to be a united front.

Walking down the main hallway of the ship he found the one person he wanted to talk to almost as much as Jade. The petite blonde had her gaze locked on the tablet she held and nearly jumped when Thor laid a hand on her shoulder. Lizzie laughed, ready to chastise him when she spied his face and her smile melted into a frown.

She pulled him into a small alcove and sighed heavily before speaking. He saw the exhaustion on her face and wondered if there was more going on than he was aware of.

"It's not you big guy. Well, it is but you haven't done anything wrong." A chuckle escaped the woman as the confused look on his face. "She doesn't like how much she's relying on you. It scares her. She's used to doing things on her own."

"But she has all of you."

"Yeah, she does. And when she needs it she asks for our help. Usually"

"I'm not forcing my opinions on her."

Lizzie laughed heartily at his words.

"I know, even if you tried she wouldn't listen to you. However, she has been relying on you more and it's not something she's used to. Jade is such a control freak and I think that she relaxes around you. That scares her. More than anything else."

He searched Lizzie's face for a moment before finally nodding.

"Thank you for your words." Thor gave her a small smile and turned to leave but her quiet words gave him pause.

"Please don't give up on her. I've haven't seen her this happy in a while. She needs you."

"I've lost too much already. Giving up is not an option." Thor responded, his head dipping in her direction before he turned and walked off.

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3 Days Later…

"Are you sure this is a good idea?" Thor didn't respond to his brother's question as they made their way to the hangar. When he had visited, Loki thought he simply wanted to speak to him about something concerning the Asgardians. While this did involve them, he wasn't sure dropping in unexpectedly was the best idea. Especially since Jade seemed to be unhappy with his brother.

"No, it's probably not but we are doing it anyway."

"She won't like it."

"She'll live. Even if she's not speaking to me I want her to know that she has our support." They walked a few meters down the hallway before turning right, no words spoken between the two. Thor sensed the other man was not finished but he didn't rush him.

"Is she truly worth the trouble brother? I'm sure there are many other women that would love to be tied to you. Both Asgardian and Aerilian."

There was no answer to his question for a few heartbeats and Loki glanced over at Thor to see determination on his face.

"She is more than worth it." They had stopped in front of the lift that would take them to the hanger. When the door opened, it was blessedly empty and both men walked inside, turning to face the door. "Why? Do you not approve?" Thor finally responded.

"No, I approve of your choice."

"Are there others that do not approve of my choice?" When Thor did not receive an answer right away he looked over to see a wide smile on his brother's face. Rolling his eyes, the blonde man smacked his brother on the chest with his right hand before exiting the lift.

"I would say she is well liked by our people. They would approve of your choice if asked."

He couldn't help the grin that rose to his face at his brother's words. "Good to know."

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Vin turned as the two men entered the hanger, a smirk creeping onto his face. It could only help to have the two gods with them and he imagined Jade would have something to say in the meantime. She surprised him though, as she went over the plan one more time before boarding. Jake and Vin were accompanying her as well as one man from her council and a few guards. Her eyes traveled over the group and when they came to rest on the brothers she didn't break her stride but held Thor's gaze for a few beats before moving on.

Thor took the opportunity to watch her as she talked, enjoying the sound of her voice. He had missed her in a variety of ways and listening to her business like tone reminded him just how much she had imbedded herself into his world. Standing tall and making sure to meet everyone's eyes she wasn't afraid to joke around with those in attendance as well.

Jade was dressed simple enough but you knew that she wasn't just anyone even if she hadn't spoken a word. Black leggings encased her legs and disappeared into black knee high boots with a short chunky heel. Her top was more fitted than what she normally wore, emphasizing her curves modestly. From where he was standing he could see the velvet like texture that was colored a deep, rich blue. Flaring out over her hips, it also boasted a wide, decorated V strip that traveled up over her breasts, a small piece of black fabric preventing anyone from seeing any skin below her collarbones. The long sleeves went down to just past her wrists and another wide band, that matched the strip on her chest, also encircled her biceps.

Thor was definitely enjoying the view but now was not the time to indulge. Bringing his attention back to her words he felt a smile reach his mouth as she finished and they all prepared to greet the Bicarrans.

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"We already discussed the payment, Wyvern. Why is the price now doubled?" Jade questioned, her voice calm as she tried to keep the anger out of it. It would not do anyone any good if she lost her temper. The man across from her did not seem to be impressed though. Probably because he knew she was limited on choices. He stood that same height as the queen, barrel chested, bald and a sick smile on his face.

"Prices fluctuate your highness. It's about supply and demand. When something is in great demand the price tends to shoot up."

"I don't need an economics lesson, I'm aware of how things work. Though I don't remember prices jumping this high before in such short a period of time."

"Well, we are the last port before you enter the Milky Way. I might be able to bring the price down a bit, perhaps in exchange for some of your technology."

As if sensing his brother's look, Thor glanced over in his direction his brow raised in question. Their gazes held for a few brief seconds before Loki shook his head briefly as if to tell him not now. Both men returned their attention back to the conversation.

Jade fought hard to hold her composure. Aerilian tech was highly sought after and she had a feeling this was why the price had jumped. That and she was sure the news of her planet's destruction had made the rounds. She, however, was not going to play this game and she started to tell the man that much when another voice spoke up.

"Has anyone ever mentioned that your customer service skills are severely lacking?" Loki's smooth voice asked, causing Jade to look back to her right. The god stood there, hands clasped behind his back, a curious look on his face that to most individuals would look passive. Jade knew it was anything but.

"Not to my face." Wyvern responded, a sneer forming on his face.

"Well then, allow me to be the first." Before anyone could say anything else, Thor shot his brother an annoyed look then took over.

"Look. You promised the Aerilian's a price and as a businessman you should honor that price. Your livelihood relies on word of mouth. If word traveled that you were gouging customers and inflating your prices then they would seek out places other than this fine establishment. We simply want what was promised and will be on our way. Otherwise, we can stand here and continue to waste one another's time, because that ship is not moving until we come to an agreement."

Everyone in the room heard the underlying words he was communicating. The other man could too and he looked to be possibly rethinking his choices. Jade held back the sign that threatened to escape.

"That big ship takes up a lot of space. Would be a shame if it stayed there more than a few hours. I figure we could hang out for a few days if you wanted to think about it though." She fought to keep the smile off her face at Jake's words, delivered with no malice of any kind but definitely a threat.

Wyvern ran his hand over his jaw and nodded.

"Fine. You'll get what we promised and not a drop more." Shooting the group a glare he turned and walked away, leaving his workers to complete the order. Loki stepped up to her side, his body angling to face hers. When she finally met his gaze he gifted her with a genuine smile.

"I could have handled that." Jade grumbled as she watched the Bicarrans walk away.

"I have no doubt my dear, but I do like messing with other's heads. Thank you for indulging me." His words were filled with humor as he bowed in her direction before moving to follow her brothers and the others that were making their way back to where the ship was docked. Rubbing her temples she sighed loudly.

Thor hadn't moved during their interaction. He waited for her to compose herself and it didn't take long. Her head turned in his direction, a sad smile on her face before she too followed their party back to the Interceptor.

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Though there were multiple conversations happening around him, Loki was lost in thought. He had felt something earlier and was puzzled as to what exactly it was. While Jade was talking, and especially when the negotiation became tense, he felt something coming from her. He pictured it as something lying just below the surface in wait and he wondered if she was even aware of it.

Some Aerilians felt Asgardian to him in respect to having extra abilities. The longer he spent with this family and the people the more he became aware of it. Especially with this family, though he hadn't mentioned his worries to anyone because he wasn't sure if there was anything to worry about.

A hand landed on his arm causing him to look up and see everyone else had exited the lift but his brother. Their eyes met and he could see the worry in the other man's eyes.

"What's wrong Loki?"

"Nothing is wrong I just sensed something I hadn't before."

"Something?"

"Yes, something."

"That's all you're going to give me?"

"Considering I'm not entirely sure what that something is, yes you buffoon. There's something...unique about this family."

Thor hesitated a moment and let out a noisy breath of air. Instead of responding he pulled Loki out of the lift without a word until they reached a part of the ship that had less traffic and allowed for the conversation he was about to have.

"They have gifts." His brother's only response was a raised brow, so Thor continued on. "That's what they call them." He went on to tell Loki the basics of what he knew about the family. When he finished his brother nodded once as if Thor's explanation had filled in an important piece of the puzzle.

"There is something poking at the surface in Jade." Loki finally reveals. "I don't know what it is but it feels very powerful. It wasn't just from her either. The other three have it as well, and their father."

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Bucky plopped down on the couch next to Steve, a bowl of popcorn in his left hand and two beers nestled between the fingers of his right. Extending his arm, Steve took a beverage as he kept scrolling the remote to pick up where they were in their list of movies.

The rest of the team was either on a mission or otherwise occupied, so the two friends had decided to take advantage of the lull to cross another movie off the list. Each of their teammates had suggested their favorites and they were actually enjoying most of the choices. There had been a few questionable ones, like Clint's suggestion of Showgirls that had traumatized them for a week or so, but most of them had been tolerable or relatively good.

Steve sighed heavily, causing Bucky to glance at him in concern.

"What?"

"It's a Peter suggestion."

"Fuck." Running his flesh hand through his hair he sat down lower in the couch and kicked his feet up on the coffee table. "Let's get it over with. What's it called?"

"Dodgeball." Steve's response was curious and the two shared a look. "Maybe it won't be so bad. Could be a documentary or something."

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Thor wandered aimlessly for a while after returning to the ship. It would be a few hours while things were situated on the ship before they could leave and he didn't feel like being around anyone. Running on autopilot he looked up and found himself in the room where he used to come to at night. The one they would meet in and talk. Where he first learned how her skin felt under his fingers and how comforting the feel of her laying in his arms was.

Sighing heavily, he sat and pulled his feet up on the seat, legs spread out before him and gazed out the window. He missed her. Really fucking missed her and it had really hit him today just how much. Having someone to talk to about important issues and stupid frivolous things was something he hadn't realized he needed. Hadn't realized it was something he was missing from his life.

He would give her tonight to regroup but tomorrow, he wasn't waiting anymore. She needed to know how he felt and that he couldn't do this anymore. Couldn't be away from her.

Thor lost himself in the stars outside and his own thoughts when he realized there was someone in the room with him. Turning his head he nearly jumped up and ran to Jade as she stood just inside the doorway. Finding a patience he didn't know he had however, he stayed where he was and gave her a soft smile. It was obvious Jade had been crying, her eyes read and her shoulders slightly slumped in exhaustion.

"Hi." His voice quietly greeted her and he felt himself relax when she smiled back at him.

"Hi."

Neither one spoke, simply watching the other before Jade finally walked over and sat at the end of the bench he occupied, just enough room for her by his feet.

"Thank you." Jade's voice was rough, but soft, causing her to clear it a couple of times before continuing. "For being there today."

"You are more than welcome."

She still hadn't met his gaze, but he waited feeling that she wasn't finished.

"I'm sorry I've been avoiding you. It was childish and rude."

"Why did you?"

"I thought I was relying on you too much." Jade stood, as the words tumbled out of her, pacing back and forth in the room. Her voice grew louder as she spoke. "I should have been able to handle everything on my own and not rely on other people and I didn't like that it made me feel…"

"Look at me, please." His voice implored her, barely above a whisper as he rose from his spot and walked to her.

Squeezing her eyes shut, she finally turned and met his gaze.

"It is always okay to ask for help. Especially from those who just want you to succeed. Please do not ever think you can't lean on others outside of your family. You and your people have been through so much recently. There is no shame in needing others. If my time with the Avengers has taught me anything, it is that we are stronger together than apart."

"I feel so weak when…" Thor shook his head a few times, his action stopping her words.

"You are not even close to being weak Jade." Large hands moved to cradle her head, his eye searching hers before he continued. "Do you know what I see when I look at you?" Jade swallowed and shook her head gently.

"Your body is tall and strong, just the right height for my own frame. If I put my arms around your shoulders, I don't have to crouch down and hurt my back." A smile blossomed on her face as a huff escaped her causing his smile to deepen at the sound. "But it's also nice if I simply want to rest my forehead against yours, or stretch out on the couch. You're beautiful face is always within reach of my lips." He emphasized this fact as he leaned down to capture her lips in a sweet kiss.

"Your skin is soft and supple and I love how you get goosebumps with even a simple touch of my fingers." Large hands moved slowly down her neck, over her shoulders and rested on her upper arms. His eyes dropped down to watch her skin pebble at his actions and he continued to speak not waiting for her verbal response.

"Your breasts and hips are voluptuous and soft, giving me a place to rest my hands or my head when I simply want to be near you. Or something to hold on to if I want a bit more." As he spoke his hands moved down to her waist and settled on her hips, pulling her closer as he leaned down to skim his lips over the swell of her breasts. As he placed gentle kisses on her skin there his eye rose up to her own and he was pleased to see her mouth open slightly, eyes dilated.

"Your lips are full and soft, perfect for soft kisses or biting." The pad of his right thumb ran over her bottom lip, dipping a little way into her mouth, her breath catching at his action.

"Your eyes, I could get lost in those beautiful eyes." Slowly Thor skimmed his hands back up to frame her face, holding her gently as his thumbs moved over her cheeks. "They show me exactly what you are feeling every time I look in them."

"Underneath that softness is such strength and power that I find myself unable to tear my eyes away when you move. Even just walking across a room you're a paradox of strength and softness." Jade's eyes slid shut as his hands moved to her back and pulled her flush with his own body. He watched as a tear fell from the corner and leaned his forehead against hers, letting his words sink in.

"Every time you start to doubt yourself or feel less than you are, I want you to remember how you feel right now. I want you to hear my words, feel my love and know that you are enough." Thor's words were deep and whisper soft and his heart was beating crazily in his chest as he watched her eyes fly open at his words.

They started at one another, both in shock and surprise.

"You love me?" Her voice held awe and hope. Thor's eyes left hers briefly, a huff escaping him as he processed what he had just shared with her. When he looked back she could see him tearing up as he gave her lips another gentle kiss.

"I do." He whispered, surprise and awe in his voice. "I've just realized I am completely in love with you."

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