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Tony stared at the door Happy had just vanished through, having popped by to check on Tony and make sure he was ready.
He took a deep breath, feeling a grin slowly spreading on his face. His chest expanded with it, and the warm sensation filling it persisted when he exhaled again.
Only a few minutes now.
All the guests were here and seated, everything in place, and that meant – soon. Very soon, the door Tony's eyes were currently glued to would open (or more like shimmer away, magical as it was) and he would walk out and marry Loki.
His stomach gave an anticipatory flutter.
It fanned the warmth in his chest; made it grow and press on his ribs softly. Tony felt his grin widen even further, happy and just a little out of it.
Sure, Tony was perfectly sober and mentally sound – as mentally sound as he could ever be, not that that was a particularly high bar – but it kind of felt like he had taken ... something. A left, maybe, where he should've gone straight (Tony snorted at the accidental pun), landing him in a weird place where everything glowed and incredible things happened.
Incredible things like Loki wanting to marry him.
And yes, Tony had known that for almost a year, but feeling it, knowing it, having it smacked in his face with only a few minutes left to go was another thing entirely.
It had never felt this ... unreal. Not in a 'I can't believe it' way. Just – Loki had gone a thousand years without ever liking anyone enough to settle down with them. And then he had looked at Tony and thought 'yes'; had said it to Tony after he had proposed to him, and what were the fucking odds of that.
And then he had asked Tony back, asked Tony to bond with him – magically – and the fact that he wanted that, and that it was even possible at all (thanks to a certain magical fruit having been very nice to Tony) just ... it didn't even make sense to ask what the odds of that were. It was too – good, too perfect for Tony to get a proper grasp on it. It felt like his brain was unsteadily hovering around it, trying to integrate and understand, and simply failing at it again and again and again. It kept slipping off, fully incapable of wrapping itself around the wonder of it all; dazed 'why's and 'how's dissolving in the face of something so good, it existed entirely separate from causality and probability.
It just ... was.
God, Tony felt the weirdest mix of vibrating-out-of-his-skin impatient and just … perfectly content. He wanted to skip the wait, wanted to stand in front of Loki already, wanted to kiss his (future) husband and get out of here so they could get married a second time, only with magic. He wanted all of that now. ...and somehow, at the same time, he wouldn't want to be anywhere else right now; wouldn't miss any part of this. Loved every single, perfect, dragging second as it passed by him and gave his dazed self a light push – towards Loki.
(Even less time now.)
Fuck, how did he look?
Tony turned to check himself in the mirror, irrationally worried for a second that he'd find a fucking mess – but no. All good. His gaze flew over his hair (not a strand out of place), his long familiar younger features (yup, all there) and down over his suit (still fitting perfectly), then flitted back to the door in a heartbeat. There was no way he'd miss his cue. Tony stared at it, lips spreading in a smile as the look at his own reflection pulled him back to what had brought his physical change about: the apple, and Loki asking him to accept it.
Tony exhaled a shaky breath. Even now, the memory of how Loki had looked at him then – so achingly hopeful as he had held out the apple, asking Tony to be with him longer ... all the while looking like he wanted to ask for forever.
Tony hadn't been sure at the time if he had gotten that right, half convinced that his brain was twisting his perception to show him what he wanted to see. But then Loki had said yes. Had proposed to Tony in return: a bond that would connect them and tie them together, and create an awareness and perception of each other that was so strong, so ever-present, that people had referred to it as an entirely new sense.
Where tying the knot would make them a package deal, this would turn them into an actual item. Connected at their core (literally); lines blurring and melting into each other. And although that was no guarantee of any kind – the ritual vows were very clear on that – it still felt like ... like Loki wanted him forever.
Like he didn't even want to imagine his life without Tony in it, and Tony was pretty fucking glad (happy, awed, brain-slipping-off-it ecstatic) about that. He didn't want to imagine his life without Loki in it either. Tony probably could – at least his brain seemed pretty good at it, at delivering disconcerting flashes of it following every little spat and misunderstanding of Loki's and his – but it just seemed ... unnatural.
Which was maybe kind of weird, but Tony had just – he had gotten used to Loki. (Although Loki's presence and love and simple existence did regularly blow his mind but that was ... different. Yeah.) Loki was just ... there. Sure, he wasn't always, all the time, physically there – but even when he wasn't, Tony felt a kind of sureness in his chest, warmly sitting there and giving him stability when his need to work until he physically couldn't anymore showed its face again. It calmed him, grounded him, and Tony would have an easier time remembering and actually taking care of his own body, warm and content with the certainty that Loki would be back. That he would look at Tony and give him a smile that would absolutely flatten his hyperactive brain; that Loki would kiss him and make the rest of the universe dissolve into nothing.
Tony was still kind of a mess in more ways than he'd like, and he doubted he would ever not be, but Loki just ... it was different with him there. Without even really trying, Loki made him want to ... just ... do things that functioning, well-adjusted adults probably did. To take care of himself better, to make time to be with Loki, check in and have fun together and make sure this would last. To try and talk to him even when it was hard – when part of him wanted to hold tight to his issues, unwilling to unload them only for them to be handed back to him after barely a glance, careless and unconcerned. But Loki didn't – hadn't. Loki listened and considered him, gentle as he held a piece of Tony in his hands and studied it carefully. Seeming like he was silently grateful and happy to have seen another part of him; and every single time, it made Tony dizzy with the lightening of his chest, like a weight had come off of it. It left him dazed, all of him helplessly melting with how adored Loki made him feel.
Loki just ... made life better.
He reminded Tony that there was more to life – that it was alright if he wasn't constantly working; constantly creating and fixing and doing stuff. That it could be fun to do boring things like cooking for and with each other, that sometimes there was nothing better than spending a lazy morning on the couch together.
Tony hadn't been properly sleep-deprived in months. (Which might be an actual record, at least as far as he could remember.) It was kind of wild, how sleep had gone through an actual metamorphosis and turned from a genuine waste of time into something nice with Loki next to him.
Loki simply ... made him slow down a little. Made him take in little things he hadn't paid attention to before; made him stop to smell the flowers and pet a sunbathing Lokitty.
And the fact that he would get to have that for a long time – a long, long time just–
Oh.
Oh god.
It was happening, the door was dissolving, going up in shimmering motes of light, and oh fucking god.
Tony stared, heart in his throat, as the door vanished completely and the last of the glowing passage through it appeared, blocking his view of the sky.
And he set off.
Tony stepped onto the grass, taking in the softly shining walls guiding him as he strode through the particles of light floating up from the ground. His steps were steady and intent as he followed the passage that would lead him to the venue – to Loki – and doubled as a screen; hiding Loki and him from each other as they advanced on mirroring paths.
Tony passed the first light curve, knowing that behind the next one, he'd see the second door – part of a twin set that would fade away to reveal Loki and him to each other. He took the next few steps and–
Halfway there.
Tony couldn't help the wide grin splitting his face. His insides felt like a big, fluttery ball of anticipation, only getting more chaotic as he strode along.
And there was the second curve, and Tony was totally alright. Super fine. He didn't feel like he'd pass out sometime in the next few seconds in the least.
Deep breaths, Tony.
God.
Almost there–
And then he was in front of the door.
Tony inhaled deeply, trying to calm the twisting and buzzing sensation stirring up his insides. He didn't really want Loki to clap eyes on him and instead of a joyful soon to be husband, see a nervous wreck across the room.
It was kind of hard though. His stomach was churning, his heart was hammering and he was kind of glad that he hadn't eaten a lot this morning because he might've thrown it back up just then. But like, happily. (God, what the fuck.)
Tony resisted the urge to facepalm, knowing that that would definitely be a worse look on a future spouse.
Luckily he was saved from himself and his own fucking brain by the doors fading away in a shimmering display. And then his brain was occupied with other things, like not melting out of his ears. And Loki. God, Loki.
Their eyes found each other like opposite poles of magnets, snapping in place and locking. And as the last glimmers vanished between them, Loki started to smile.
Tony was glad that his body had already received the impulse to move, making him start towards Loki at a measured pace. He definitely wouldn't have managed it now, with that smile ... with that smile of Loki's (which Tony had privately dubbed his 'greeting smile') putting all of his higher functions on hold.
Loki's lips curled up, obviously pleased and warm, and so happy. The look on his face spoke for him, and it was almost as if he had audibly said, 'I'm happy to see you,' then followed up with a tight hug and a tender kiss. And if that had been it, Tony would've been sufficiently close to liquifying already, thank you very much. But more than that, Loki looked like ... like he was just – perfectly content with the world. Like there was nothing bothering him, no worries or hurts weighing on him. That, or like anything of that sort had simply fallen to the side in deference to his joy and happiness at seeing Tony, and if that wasn't a heady thought, nothing was.
It had reached lethal levels after that letter from Loki's mom and, after that, them reconnecting – Loki was such a softie, Tony had known that he had a giant soft spot for his family (whether they deserved that or not, a voice in the back of Tony's brain threw in) – catapulting Loki's greeting smile from a simpler 'I'm happy to see you' to a full on heartmelting 'I love my life and I love you and everything is great and I'm happy to see you.'
It had already been bad (incredibly good – the best) enough before. And after ... Tony just hadn't stood a chance at all. Everytime Loki looked and smiled at him like that, his brain ceased any and all activities – because what could be more important than staring at Loki? At his love, who looked back so adoringly that it made Tony's heart throb and squeeze; pulsing blood so hot that he felt like a human-shaped mass of goo, all weird and melty.
It made Tony unable to think with how much he loved Loki – which certainly didn't go unnoticed. Just then, Loki's smile grew into an amused smirk, snapping Tony into full 'on' mode again, and he returned a light grin of his own – a fully cemented ritual of theirs by now. Even after he had been persuaded into telling Loki about the 'greeting smile' and its effect on him, Loki continued smiling it, and Tony continued reacting to it like he was seeing it for the first time – both seemingly unconscious and uncontrollable reactions to each other. And just as sure as the following spike of amusement of Loki's, which Tony was really rather glad for in this moment.
As it was, he regained his thinking capacity while they were both still walking towards the middle; just in time to consciously complete the last few steps. They stopped in front of each other, mirroring smiles and happy gazes, and Tony wasn't entirely sure how it had happened but they were holding hands, their fingers intertwined.
After a few long moments, Loki turned his torso a fraction, and inclined his head to the side with his eyes remaining on Tony.
Inviting him to walk down the aisle together.
It was more of a gently teasing reminder than a question, which only made sense, really. After all, why ask when you already know the answer?
Tony's smile deepened for a moment, and as they turned as one and started strolling towards the altar with their hands joined between them, he finally took in the wedding venue. Of course, he had seen it before, but it looked even better now – all in for the main event. Softly glowing planes decorated with flowery vines served as ceiling and walls, transforming this grassy bit of nondescript area into a private and charming – almost cozy even, in a 'deserving of royalty and gods' way – little enclosure.
Tony's eyes swept across the room and their guests (mostly close acquaintances or friends of theirs), returning a few pleased smiles and happy looks. Already feeling the pull to look back at Loki again, he managed a short glance over to the front, at their officiant, best man and best woman respectively, before his gaze snapped back to his partner. Tony's eyes were drawn to the rose pinned to Loki's lapel – red, a partner to Tony's green one – then wandered up, up ... and got stuck there.
Tony couldn't help staring at Loki. And Loki seemed to have felt it, giving Tony barely half a second to admire him before his vibrant eyes found Tony's. Their smiles widened in sync, and it took only a moment for the softly loving lines of Loki's face to form into a sappy grin – an expression Tony was pretty sure he was mirroring.
They reached the end of the not very long aisle (neither of them had wanted to bother with inviting a whole lot of people) and Tony beamed at Pepper, Thor and Rhodey. He and Loki took their places between the three and in front of each other, grasping hands. And just like that, Tony was back to staring at Loki.
God, he was gorgeous. Hair loosely pinned back and falling down over his shoulders in light waves; handsome features forming a glowing smile centered on Tony. Tony was lucky that looks couldn't actually kill. Else he would've been six feet under a thousand times over already, with Loki looking at him with his – his face. And ... everything. As it was, he felt dangerously close to vaporizing; insides so hot and fluttery that he might simply burst and shower everyone in tiny little Tony pieces.
–oh, Rhodey was talking.
"–to witness and celebrate the marriage of Loki and Tony." Tony blinked, hoping he had only missed the beginning of that one sentence.
Loki's smile gained a note of amusement, looking like he was having a silent laugh at Tony.
Tony squeezed his hand, unable to resist a smile himself. 'Shut up.'
Loki's smile widened into a grin.
"This might be a new chapter in their lives, but I am sure that its contents will be far from new for them. Their marriage will rest on years of companionship; on light and hard times shared as friends and partners. It will rest on mutual respect and appreciation cultivated and grown over years at each other's side. They have cherished each other, obvious as anything, even before they became a couple ... and I'm sure I'm not the only one who was more than happy for them when it finally happened. Tony, Loki–" Tony looked at his oldest friend, and Rhodey used the pause for effect to throw both of them dry looks, "I can't tell you how glad I am that you managed to pull your heads out of your ... behinds ..." there was snickering from some of the guests, and Tony had to grin himself, "and act on your feelings."
With that, he addressed the room at large again, and Tony looked back to Loki to share a warmly amused smile with him.
"I don't think I have ever seen two people who adore each other like these two do. And I am sure I speak for us all when I say that their love is plain to see – in their easy affection, their happy smiles for each other, and the way they sometimes look at each other like the presence of other people in the room doesn't even register to them," Rhodey said, lightly teasing.
Tony tore his eyes away from Loki to look at Rhodey, and found him grinning back. The little shit.
He heard Loki let out a quiet snort. ...and, yeah, nothing to say to that. It was true, after all. He gave Rhodey a grin, silently promising to very obnoxiously rub it in the next time his friend displayed any kind of schmoopy behavior.
Rhodey's grin widened for a bit. Then, he looked down at his notes, taking a beat before he warmly continued, "They fit so well, make each other so happy, that one look at them would be enough to know that they are made for each other."
Tony swallowed, eyes stinging. He hadn't known Rhodey thought that. And Loki hadn't either, apparently: he looked at Rhodey in surprise, seeming similarly affected. His lips spread in a smile, and when his eyes found Tony again, both of them had to blink a little, touched as they looked at each other and continued listening, "And every further look at their mutual love and appreciation, their understanding and consideration for each other would only prove it further. They are wonderful together, and it is my greatest joy and honor on this day to marry them to each other." Rhodey paused, making Tony look at him.
His friend's smile was warm and happy as he looked between him and Loki. "Loki, Tony. You are here today to join your hands in marriage, freely and of your own hearts and minds. If that is so, say 'We are.'"
Tony felt giddy as he looked at Loki, and together with him, said, "We are."
"Then let's hear your vows," Rhodey followed up, all formality gone in a second and sounding like he was grinning.
Tony couldn't imagine why – it wasn't like every bit of calm he had regained during Rhodey's speech had just flown out the window. Nope. He was – totally fine.
Deep breaths.
Deep– Loki was looking at him. Right. The vows. They hadn't decided who'd go first and suddenly Tony was completely unsure how he'd make it through Loki's vows and if he would be able to say his own after if he went second. "Can I–"
"Of course," Loki said quietly, smiling. He let go of one of Tony's hands, probably so Tony could take out the paper with his vows on it. As if Tony needed that though. He immediately grabbed for Loki's hand again, finding that infinitely better than a piece of paper. He'd looked at the vows so much, they felt burned into his mind. And although his brain did sometimes shut down, it was mostly when Loki– fuck. Maybe he should've taken the paper out after all.
No, it would be ... alright. He was a genius, okay. He could do this.
And Loki's hand > paper.
...
Loki's hand >>>>> paper, actually, so Tony's brain would just have to deal.
He took a deep breath, looked into Loki's eyes, and began. "You probably noticed but I had kind of a hard time writing my vows." Loki grinned, and Tony could practically see him replaying all the times he had found Tony with his head in his hands, wracking his brain for what he could possibly say.
"I'm pretty sure I could ramble at you for hours and still fail at even coming close to properly expressing my feelings for you. No matter how much or what I say, I feel like I will never be able to tell you how much I love you; how much I want you. How..." Tony swallowed, a swell of love in his chest blurring his vision, "...how everyday with you feels like the best I've ever had."
God, Tony wished Loki could just look inside his heart, so he could see instead of having to make do with Tony's lackluster words. And although there was a possibility that they would get that, later (it was hard to say, with the bond being different for everyone), for now, Tony still wanted to try. To look at Loki and tell him.
"You make me feel like – like I'm alright. You look at me like I'm perfect and it makes me unsure if I should tell you I'm not, when all I want is for you to never stop." He looked into Loki's softly shining eyes. Please. Don't ever stop. "You take the mess that I am and hold me close like I'm loveable chaos. And I just..." Tony had to stop for a moment to breathe and blink the tears out of his eyes.
"I love being with you. I love holding your hand and talking to you about anything and everything. Even being the genius I am," Tony said, grinning, "I can't imagine anything better than kissing you. And that is saying a lot, considering that I'm rarely less of a genius than when I'm doing exactly that – with your lips on mine wiping my brain clean and leaving nothing of me but my heart, beating for you." Fuck, that must've been the sappiest shit Tony had ever said. Not that it hadn't been true ...and absolutely worth it, for the way Loki smiled at him.
"I want to cuddle you and cook for you, and continue working on awesome stuff with my soon to be science and magic hubby." Tony grinned at Loki, who returned it, the moment of humor lightening the emotionally soaked atmosphere a little. Tony took a deep breath, getting ready to say the actual vows part of his vows.
"I know that it won't always be easy; that there will be days when we misunderstand each other, when we might be more of a challenge than a joy to each other. And I will do my best to ask, to hear you out and share in return. I will try to believe in you and your love for me, to trust in your conscious choice to be with me, even when part of my brain tells me it's too good to be true. I will be there for you and support you however I can." Always, and for as long as Loki wanted him to be. "It won't always be easy, but I'm sure that with you, I can make it work." Tony paused, then grinned at Loki as he corrected himself – they were in this together after all. "We will."
And Loki smiled back, warm and glowing as Tony finished: "Together."
Tony took a deep breath, then exhaled it a little unsteadily. There. All good. He had made it through without forgetting anything or melting into a teary mess – although the latter could still happen. He looked on as Loki's smile widened, his slightly reddened eyes so incredibly soft and loving that Tony felt like he was about to have a serious saltwater leak.
"Anthony," Loki breathed, giving Tony's hands a squeeze. He took a deep breath, then let out a little wet laugh – more a huff of air than anything. He grinned at Tony, blinking to clear his eyes, and for a moment he looked nearly overwhelmed – high on happiness as he stared at Tony. And Tony could only return his gaze, his love's face blurring a little (oh joy, there's the leak.)
Loki swallowed. He took a deep, deep breath, his chest visibly rising and falling with it. And then he started to speak, voice clear and full as he said his own vows, "In all my years, I scarcely dared to imagine that one day I might have a friend, much less a partner like you. My whole life, I haven't ever, truly, known the feeling of home – until I met you. Until you approached me with curiosity and kindness, laughed and bantered with me, and shared my appreciation of magic and mischief. You accepted me – all of me that I dared to show you. ...I–" Loki broke off, swallowing once again. Tony was blinking and blinking, doing his best to counteract the leak so he could keep watching Loki.
"I don't know how this happened. Seldom does a day pass without me being struck with wonder and awe at ... you." (Oh god, Tony was melting.) "You loving me. Choosing me." Loki smiled at him, and Tony almost couldn't breathe with how much he wanted to go, 'Me? What about you?'; with how much he wanted to shine Loki's awe right back at him.
Loki's smile widened a little, soft anticipation lighting up his face. "I want to be with you. I want to share my life with you. I want for our paths to continue running just along each other, perhaps separating for a step or two yet always coming together again. I love seeing you anew – each and every time. I love when my eyes fall on you and you become more than the inhabitant of my heart and the constant presence in the back of my mind; and turn tangible and real instead. When I see you, and know that I will soon be able to embrace and kiss you. As I long to do in any of my waking moments." Loki's expression gentled, almost bittersweetly so – as if in regret for an unrealistic hope, and Tony would so kiss Loki for days after this. He wasn't mortal anymore and they both had magic – Tony was sure they could figure something out.
Loki's gaze on him sharpened a little, likely having cottoned on to Tony's brain working on something ... interesting. Tony grinned at him widely, sure that at least part of what he was thinking was showing on his face. Loki tilted his head just a fraction, seeming intrigued, before blinking himself out of it.
Right. They were in the middle of their vows.
Tony felt his grin turn a little sheepish. Loki mirrored it, except his looked fond and amused on top of that. He cleared his throat once, straightening as he got back into his vows headspace, and Tony barely had time to feel kind of bad about distracting him before Loki was already continuing with a gentle smile. "I'm still not quite sure how to do this but ... I will try to have faith, and will strive to trust you with my mind, just as I trust you with my heart already, letting it rest safely in your hands. I will do my utmost to be conscious and mindful; to care for you and let you care for me. There is no telling what the future may bring, and there might be much to learn to master any challenges we are to face. But I am confident that we will manage." Loki smiled as he finished, just as Tony had: "Together."
And Tony could only grin at him, speechless with the huge mass of fluttery warmth filling his chest. For a long moment they only looked at each other, happiness swimming in their locked eyes.
Then, Rhodey continued, "And this would be the point where some couples would exchange rings. But considering that you're wearing them already..." he trailed off in a dryly amused tone, and they shared a grin, before looking at him.
"Will you wear your rings as symbols of your continued love and commitment to each other, carrying them as you will carry one another in your hearts?"
Tony looked back at Loki. With matching smiles, they answered, "We will."
"Do you promise to treat each other with kindness and care, no matter what challenges and difficulties may arise?"
"We do."
"And do you promise to respect and honor each other as partners in marriage, supporting and cherishing each other as you share life's joys and pains? Do you promise to be there for one another, as constant companions for as long as you two will live?"
Tony stared at Loki, insides twisting and heated. He felt the smile on his own lips grow a little as he looked into Loki's eyes, seeing the spark of glee in them – of satisfaction and anticipation. Sure, the magic marriage said nothing about a promise for forever … but that didn't mean they couldn't. Holding a little tighter onto Loki, Tony opened his mouth, and in unison, they said, "We do."
"You have given your vows and promises, exchanged rings and joined hands. With friends and family as dear witnesses, you have shown your intent to become partners in marriage – and so you shall be." Rhodey paused for a moment, then declared, "I now pronounce you husband and husband. You may kiss the groom," he ended, a smile in his voice.
And Tony would have liked that, except his lips were currently stuck in a full on grin; unable to contain the happiness buzzing inside him. He beamed at Loki, who glowed back at him, eyes crinkling with his wide smile. Deep breaths. He could do this.
A few long moments later, his grin had finally become something more kissable. It didn't vanish entirely though, persistent as they took a small step closer to each other, meeting in the middle. Mirroring smiles pressed against each other softly, and Tony exhaled a trembling sigh, eyes stinging once again as he melted into the kiss. The cheering and clapping of their guests registered only distantly, then faded to nothing but a low hum. He cradled Loki's face in his left hand, heart throbbing as their lips moved together, slow and tender. His right hand came to rest on Loki's chest, cupping his pinned rose, and he felt Loki mirroring him. Smiling, Tony pulled on his magic, activating the spell he and Loki had thought of to give this a little more flair: to make their roses change color, from their red and green respectively to a mix of both, fading into each other on every single petal. He pressed the tips of his fingers into Loki's chest, signaling his end was done. Loki did the same, and once again, Tony felt his lips stretching into a grin.
Loki gazed at his beloved, seeing his own heated anticipation mirrored in Anthony's features. Possessive delight curled his insides at the thought of Anthony being with him – being his – for their whole lives. Norns, he wanted nothing more. "We do," they spoke as one.
And then, they were husbands.
Loki felt split in two with his conflicting urges, one to close their distance right this moment; to seal their promise with a kiss and feel Anthony, and the other to keep looking at his beloved – at his wide, almost deliriously happy grin; his sparkling eyes on Loki.
In the end, it didn't take long for Anthony's expression to gentle, and they stepped close to each other to meet in a kiss. Loki's eyes fell closed, heart aching as he cupped Anthony's cheek. Their lips moved softly together, reverently, as they shared their first kiss as a married couple – as husbands. Loki's eyes stung, and he was grateful when he felt Anthony's fingertips press lightly into his chest. It gave him something to focus on other than the overwhelming swell of awe and joy in his chest, and he quickly completed his part of their spell, making Anthony's green rose under his hand resemble its formerly red twin on his own lapel. He returned the signal, feeling Anthony's lips spreading into a grin.
They broke apart carefully, just looking at each other for a moment. Hands remaining on each other for a few heartbeats before they were lowered again, clasping at their sides. They stepped apart a little to the continued cheering of their guests, and James's surprised "Woah. Nice one."
Loki gave him a smile, while Anthony grinned at him. He could feel Thor coming closer to peer over his shoulder, his small noise of interest overshadowed by James's affectionately spoken "You show-offs."
Anthony gave a laugh. "Really? You're standing in a magic room and this is showing off?"
Loki chuckled, and heard Pepper do the same as she followed Thor's example and looked over Anthony's shoulder to see what James had meant. "They're beautiful," she said, smiling warmly with a look to the roses, then at Loki and finally Anthony next to her.
"Indeed," Thor spoke, turning Anthony's grin from Pepper to him.
"Thank you," Loki directed at both of them and was shortly followed by Anthony's charmingly cocky "Of course they are. We made them."
Loki gave a quiet snort. He grinned at Anthony, who returned it after a beat.
"Shall we?" Loki asked, suddenly more than impatient. To finish this, return to their home and bond.
Anthony made a noise of assent, his eyes on Loki hot from one moment to the next. With a smile to James, Pepper and Thor, they turned and walked through their guests again. Their cheers and applauding only grew when a whistle sounded behind them, making Anthony laugh and Loki grin.
Loki looked over them as they walked past, returning smiles and joyful looks – of closer acquaintances of his, the Avengers, Anthony's little (or not so little anymore) mentees, and his mother. He smiled back at her, chest warming at her joyful expression as she applauded along, ever graceful as she joined in the revelry.
They stepped outside the magically erected venue, and Loki felt in high spirits and full of energy; the guests' excitement having infected him. "Anthony," he breathed, holding tight to his beloved's hand and simply looking at him.
Anthony grinned. "Yeah, hubby mine?"
Loki blinked. "Is that your newest endearment for me?" he asked dryly, at once rather torn between fond exasperation and heated desire at the reminder that Anthony was his.
Anthony's grin widened. "Would you like it to be?"
Loki didn't know. All he knew was that he had to kiss Anthony, right now. He pulled him to the side, out of view, and pressed him against the shimmering wall, leaning down to capture his lips. Anthony rose up into it, hands buried in Loki's hair and holding him close. A groan escaped Loki at the feeling of those hands on him, strong yet gentle as Anthony deepened their kiss with a tilt of his head, pulling Loki closer to him. Loki followed his beloved's direction, closer and against and in. Fingers digging into Anthony's sides as he pushed him against the wall. For long, long moments, Loki could only kiss him. Kiss him and feel his heat, his passion and want.
And then, he remembered that they had guests to see to (at least for a little bit), and then ... then. Loki tore himself away, breathing rather heavily. He resisted the pull of Anthony's hands on him, an amused smile spreading on his lips as he watched Anthony instinctively follow after him, then dazedly blink his eyes open when he noticed Loki wasn't complying. His partner's brows furrowed a little, an almost petulant note to his expression as he looked at Loki and let out a questioning noise. "Anthony," Loki spoke, so fondly amused that his voiced seemed to be dripping with it, even to his own ears.
Anthony blinked again, regaining his focus. He cleared his throat, letting go of Loki with a lightly sheepish grin. "Right. Let's finish this and get magic married, hm?" Clearly motivated now, he pulled Loki into the entrance of the venue again, and they got another round of applause as they entered.
They made their way through their friends and acquaintances, accepting hugs and shoulder pats of congratulations. Loki found himself getting increasingly impatient, but simply couldn't bring himself to hurry them along when one of Anthony's mentees heaped them both with an excited ramble of well-wishes following an enthusiastic hug for both of them. His eyes fell upon Hogan, whose expression was a blend of subdued fondness and knowing sympathy, making Loki bite down on an amused smile.
They engaged in a bit of banter with their shield-siblings, then went on to Loki's acquaintances from Alfheim and Vanaheim, gracious at their gentle ribbings at how they could still stand to entertain guests, when they had something so important scheduled. Loki couldn't help his grin, and neither his light gloating at having found a trusted who was willing to bond with him – a fortune not many were blessed with.
There were warm (Pepper, James) and bone-crushing (Thor) hugs, and further words of congratulations.
And finally, words of blessing and congratulations from his mother, who smiled and embraced them in turn. They promised (somewhat reluctantly) to visit Asgard after Odin had awoken from the Odinsleep, to introduce Anthony to him.
And then, they were free.
Loki's heart was racing, giddy as he looked at Anthony and asked, "Home?"
Anthony grinned back, seeming just as excited as he answered, "Home."
Loki teleported them into their bedroom. And then they stood there, thrumming with nerves and anticipation as they stared at each other. Loki could see Anthony's chest rise with a deep breath, and found himself mirroring it. He wasn't sure if it was helping, as he continued feeling rather beside himself, barely able to think with most of his mind screaming in wordless elation.
Anthony – Anthony would be his bonded.
His fingers clamped down on Anthony's hand. Anthony smiled, fond and lightly amused. He closed their distance to place his free hand on the side of Loki's head, rising up on his toes to press a soft kiss to Loki's cheek, then continuing on his trajectory to rest their heads against each other. Loki brought up his hand to card it into Anthony's hair, exhaling an unsteady breath and holding Anthony close. He felt a swell of gratitude in his chest, making him swallow as it rose up and lodged in his throat.
Loki breathed, eyes closed as he let himself be calmed by Anthony's presence and warmth against him.
Finally, he raised his head again, smiling down at Anthony. Anthony returned it, patient and affectionate, and Loki's eyes stung again. "I love you," he breathed out, his vision of Anthony's soft grin blurring and clearing again as he blinked tears from his eyes. "I love you," he repeated, voice barely a whisper. It sat in his chest, massive yet featherlight; lodged so deeply that it would forever be part of him, and Loki ached with the sheer volume of it.
He heard Anthony breathe out a wet little laugh, then let out a low noise of understanding. As if he was saying, 'I know, I've got you. I'm here.' He gently pulled Loki's head down, rising up at the same time to place a kiss on his lips. Reverent and careful with barely a movement – just their soft smiles resting against each other. Loki felt a tear escape his closed lashes and run down his face, composure crumbling under the wonderful sensation of Anthony's lips on his. The slight press of Anthony's nose against him, and the uniquely soothing, marvelous caress of his calm breaths on Loki's skin.
After he didn't know how long, they gently broke apart again. "I love you," Anthony said quietly, reddened eyes warm and loving.
Smiling at the words, Loki took a deep breath. He looked towards their bed – at the two pairs of trousers that would be their attire for the ritual. He hesitated a little, somewhat unwilling to start right away, with their contact with others having been only minutes ago (at least Loki was more or less certain that they couldn't have been here for an hour yet).
"Shower first?" Anthony asked, seemingly sensing Loki's predicament. He looked back at Anthony, a grateful smile on his lips as he gave a small noise of agreement.
Once again, they stared at each other. Loki wasn't sure if Anthony felt it but it seemed almost as if their ritual had already begun – a certain sense of meaning, of weight, suffusing the space between them. They stood there in their suits, something about the moment seeming like a held breath; anticipant and charged.
Then, Loki reached for Anthony, movements certain as he began undressing him. Reverent as he took off his rose and placed it on a cupboard beside them. Careful as he undid his bowtie and pulled it off. Warm as he let his hands move under Anthony's suit jacket, drawing it off and down. Slow as he opened the buttons of his shirt, pulled it from his trousers and put it aside. Steady as he kneeled and removed Anthony's shoes and socks, offering his shoulder for support. And reverent once more as he loosened Anthony's belt and helped him step out of his trousers and underwear. Finally, he looked up at Anthony, and let himself be pulled back onto his feet.
Anthony caressed his face, gave him an almost painfully tender smile. And then, he did the same: undressing Loki slowly, reverently. Unwrapping him like a gift; soft anticipation, wonder and worship in his motions as he removed Loki's clothing piece by piece, stripping him of everything that could pose a barrier between them. Rose and bowtie, jacket and shirt. Just as Loki had, Anthony kneeled, a light smile on his face as he grasped Loki's calf and pulled off his shoe, then his sock, repeating the movements a second time as Loki rebalanced to stand on his other foot, a hand on Anthony's shoulder. He loosened Loki's belt and moved his trousers off, then his underwear. And finally, Anthony looked up at him, smiling as he drew a warm hand down Loki's flank.
Loki carefully pulled him to his feet, and they shared a brief kiss, a tender brush of lips.
Hand in hand, they walked the few steps to the bathroom, moving as one as they entered the shower and began to cleanse each other. Their movements were gentle and unhurried as they tended to one another, fingers drawing through hair, palms moving over planes and curves. They took turns washing each other's bodies until they were both clean, and Loki felt his blood singing with the knowledge that it was only them, now. No particles of others left. Only Anthony, and him.
They towelled off and dried each other's hair. And then, finally, they stood in front of the bed again.
Eyes on his beloved, Loki dropped his glamour, wanting to face Anthony in his truest form as they entered the bond together. Anthony smiled at him, warm and fond, and Loki returned it.
They each reached for their own trousers and donned them, movements slow and measured as they drew them up and fastened them over their hips.
Loki inhaled deeply, a strange sense of calm settling over him even as his heart remained full to bursting with love. With joy, and anticipation.
They looked at each other, joyful gazes and bright smiles. And then, as if drawn by an invisible pull, they turned to face each other, a bit less than an arm's length apart.
"Ready?" Loki asked quietly.
"Ready if you are," Anthony answered, smiling.
And ready Loki was.
He made to lift his arm, and it was as if he was being guided; Yggdrasill looking on to witness and bless their union. As one, they raised their right arms and placed the flat of their hands in the middle of the other's chest.
And they spoke.
Loki's seidr pulsed softly in his hand resting against Anthony, with Anthony's on him just the same.
They recited the first verse, promising to close their distance, to be earnest and proactive for as long as they would be with each other. Loki felt a rueful smile steal onto his face. He hadn't always been good at that but ... he would try. Would do his utmost to dare, and ask.
Anthony's smile on him was understanding, reassuring. As if he had read Loki's thoughts and wanted to soothe him. Loki felt the twinge of shame inside him fade, and then–
It was the second verse.
Loki let the shields around his core fall, sensing that Anthony was doing the same. He could feel it in his hand on Anthony's chest – his trusted's core calling out to him, just as his own was calling out to Anthony. It had never been this – clear. Loki swallowed, a ball of emotion lodged in his throat.
They promised to reveal their hearts, to show themselves to one another. For as long as they would be together. Anthony's eyes on him were earnest as they spoke the words together, and Loki could only hope his beloved could see the same in him. Loki wanted to lay his heart bare; would do his best to overcome his reservations and share his feelings and thoughts with Anthony.
The third verse followed, and they promised to hold onto one another, to show consideration and understanding as they held each other close.
Their left hands rose in unison, grasping the other's hand on their chest, fingers interlinking a little as they held onto each other and lightly pressed joined hands into their own chest. Loki's seidr in his left hand tangled with Anthony's seidr in his right, magic intertwining as he prepared to draw Anthony's seidr inward and to his core; and he felt Anthony mirroring him, seidr mingling in their hands on Anthony's chest.
He looked into Anthony's eyes, certain with a hint of nervous anticipation. His own heart beat steady and true, pulsing love and excitement through his entire body. His blood was singing in his veins, thrumming and exulting, and he felt himself take a deep breath, almost unconsciously so.
This was it.
Their bond was primed, floating over them and ready to fall into place.
Loki grinned, eyes stinging and heart hammering as they spoke the last verse. As they asked for connection and Yggdrasill gave it, benevolent and kind as she wove their cores together.
And Loki felt it as he was pulled in, as his seidr touched on Anthony's core.
He felt it, felt Anthony and oh ... oh, Norns.
"Ready?" Loki asked.
Of course Tony was fucking ready. He was kind of out of his mind, awed and anticipant and his brain was having difficulties holding onto what was actually happening – about to happen – here, but yeah, he was ready. He smiled. "Ready if you are."
And yeah, Loki looked pretty fucking ready too – and he was, apparently. Or this – this whole ... thing wouldn't be working.
When it was. It obviously, incredibly, was.
It felt like a warm presence had settled over Tony, gently nudging his body and guiding his words as they began to speak. He obviously knew what the ritual vows meant – Loki had translated them for him, and Tony had burned the Elven original into his mind, determined to get it out smoothly without a single stutter. He had known what they meant – but somehow, in that moment, he knew as if he had spoken the language all his life. He felt the meaning of the words as they rolled off his tongue, easily and effortlessly. Even his magic was being supported – he drew it from his core and into the hand on Loki's chest as if he had handled it for decades.
They spoke the first verse together, and Tony had to smile at the expression on Loki's face. Let his own show that it was alright. Loki could take his time, he didn't have to rush and do more than he was comfortable with. Tony wasn't going anywhere. He felt glad when Loki relaxed again, tension melting out of his features as he smiled at Tony.
They were halfway through the verse, and Tony couldn't help but think that it was kind of ironic for the ritual vows to mention time so often, given the lifespan of the average mage. But then again, maybe that made it even more important – you wouldn't want to be stuck with someone you didn't love for thousands of years. And the vows seemed tailored to prevent exactly that kind of thing: every verse included a version of 'This will last as long as we want it to,' hammering the idea home with every repitition of it. It seemed like both a reminder that they may not want it to last forever – at the same time making it clear that that was totally fine – as well as an encouragement: to work for it, to put time and effort into their relationship so it would thrive and last through the ages. And god, was Tony down for that.
Before he knew it, it was the second verse. And hoo boy, was Tony glad for the supernatural help now. Although he had managed to lower his core's natural shields tens of times in the past year, they had always snapped back up in less than a second. And Tony hadn't been too frustrated at that either, given that it just felt like ... it was kind of hard to describe. If he had to draw a comparison, it was like he imagined it would feel to fold out his ribcage to present his beating heart; like opening up his skull to show his brain – like peeling off his skin and holding it up despite its pull to snap securely back into place (if skin worked like that, which it obviously didn't, but anyway). So, yeah. It was ... a thing. A very unnatural feeling thing that apparently took years and years of practice. Centuries, maybe, given Loki's age and the fact that even he could only hold his shields down for ten seconds or so, at max.
But this ... Tony let his shields drop, half expecting them to be held open forcefully by some magic treeforce. Instead, it felt ... safe. They didn't snap back into place, and there was no strain in any way. Instead, they just stayed open, relaxed and trusting under Yggdrasill's protection, patient as they waited to wave through their first – and only – visitor. Although Tony's magic senses weren't super developed (yet), he felt the pull of their cores on each other like a physical sensation. His on Loki, Loki's on him. Even if Loki had shown him before, had held his shields down for Tony to feel it, he had never perceived it this clearly, this strongly. And it was ... holy shit. It was incredible.
It was kind of wild that even with his laser focus on their cores and magic, he was still fully aware of what they were saying. Of their promise to do the same through their actions as they had just done with their magical defenses: to welcome each other in, to share their hearts and feelings. Tony felt a swell of warmth as he spoke a word that he had heard from Loki many, many times over the years: Zarheï – 'my heart'. Always with an adoring smile on Loki's face as he told Tony he loved him, even if not in as many words. And as they vowed to show their true selves to each other, Tony could only think, 'Yes. I will. I promise,' happy when he saw the same resolve on Loki's face. They might not be super great at that, but they would try. They would do their best.
With that, it was the third verse already, and they raised their hands to place them on the other's, letting their magic mingle. Holding tight to each other as they promised to do just that.
They closed their mouths at the same time, and Tony felt like his heart was about to beat out of his chest. He could sense it – the potential, the bond thrumming in the air between them, ready to come to life and tie them together. He looked into Loki's eyes, love and awe swelling in his chest as they spoke the last words.
As they asked for the bond, and it was snapped into place between them. All of a sudden, Tony's senses narrowed down to the magic in his right hand, to the pull of Loki's core on him. From one moment to the next, Loki's face was overlayed with the vision of his core, bright and shining and growing bigger and bigger as Tony got yanked in along a strand of Loki's magic, following it as it went from green to green-gold to full on golden when he reached Loki's core; straight up slamming into it.
And oh fucking god.
Tony felt like a nuclear bomb of emotion had gone off in his chest; absolutely struck dumb by Loki ... by Loki's feelings for him. It was like he had jumped headfirst into a pool of ... just – god. Where he had felt the pull before, now all he felt was utter fucking delight – Loki's delight at ... him. Loki's core surrounded him like warmth, like soothing cool touches, a mass of utter adoration. Distantly, Tony felt his eyes sting with it, chest aching and full. Loki's essence was enveloping and cradling him, almost clinging to him, as if afraid to let him go. And as soon as he honed in on that, he noticed it: Loki's protective streak for him. It felt like a mile wide, and given the strength of it, Tony was almost surprised that Loki hadn't chained them together yet so he could keep an eye on Tony – but, no. Directly following that and keeping it in check were Loki's respect for Tony and his absolute refusal to see him unhappy, or to harm him in any way.
There was awe and gratitude, and a stunned kind of elation: like Tony was a treasure that had come to Loki unexpectedly. Like he only wanted to hold him in his hands and marvel at him; like Tony was a – a wonder, or ... something. (God, Tony was leaking. He was leaking saltwater all over the place.)
There was a sense of humbled gratitude, of Loki being thankful for his incredible luck to have gotten to be with Tony. It made Tony's heart throb, and he could only think, 'No.' The warm tendrils of Loki's magic around him, gentle as they held onto him and enveloped him in their golden light felt surreal, actually otherworldly. It felt like Tony had somehow caught the attention of an actual deity – of a benevolent power, gentle and adoring as it shone down on him. And he just knew: he was the lucky one. By some one in a billion dumb luck, he had found Loki – or more like stumbled onto him feeding ducks, Tony thought with a smile – and there was no way he was letting go. He would keep Loki. Today and tomorrow.
Forever, and ever.
Loki felt swept off his feet as Anthony's seidr carried him along, fading from red to red and light blue, and finally, pure white with a tinge of blue when it reached Anthony's core. For a moment Loki could only marvel – Anthony's core looked like pure light. Like a star, hot and brilliant, ready to burn anything that touched it–
And oh. Oh, Norns.
Loki was pulled in, and in an instant was completely enveloped; heart bursting at the exclamation of utter joy from Anthony's core. Anthony's seidr was flicking at him gently, playful and teasing as it licked across him in flames of pure heat. Anthony felt like fire, and yet he surrounded Loki with nothing but caring warmth. Ever considerate and careful as he cradled Loki. There was respect and admiration, and ever-present, utter joy – joy at having found a friend and equal in Loki, as well as someone to love and care for. As soon as Loki focused on that, he was almost bowled over by it: by Anthony's desire, need almost, to please Loki. To make him happy, lessen his hurts and, if anyway possible, prevent him from being in pain at all.
Loki swallowed, touched by his beloved's consideration for him. It made him feel so ... so warm, and loved. Cherished, and ... safe. Though Loki sensed Anthony's acknowledgement of his abilities – wonder, even, at his skills and talents – his wish to protect and care for Loki didn't contradict or lessen that in the least. Anthony knew Loki didn't need it, didn't doubt his strength or wit or tenacity – he simply wanted to be there for Loki; wanted to be his support whenever he may need it. (Loki smiled a little, amused at the different levels of 'need' in Anthony's mind.)
Of course, he had known of Anthony's nature before – of his desire to give, in whatever shape or form. But to feel it in its purest state, fully centered and focused on Loki, shining down on him like a warming beam of light ... distantly, Loki perceived his vision blurring, heart aching at his beloved's regard and care for him. He had always felt drawn to Anthony's warmth, to his easy acceptance and kindness. And he had felt it in Anthony’s embraces and kisses, seen it in his actions and fond eyes on Loki. But this ... with Anthony's core surrounding him, he felt absolutely suffused by it. Every part of his being warmed by Anthony, by his core that shone so brightly it should have blinded and burned Loki – and yet it didn't. Somehow, Loki knew Anthony would never burn him. Although part of him mused that he wouldn't mind being burned to ashes by Anthony's heat, by the intensity of his love and want, that seemed far from being the case. Rather, the tendrils of white and light blue flickered around him, nestling close and caressing him gently, carefully holding onto him in what seemed like awed delight.
There was wonder in it, clear and unmistakable, and also ... reverence. It was as if Anthony thought he was the one lucky to have Loki. When really, it was Loki who had been blessed by the Norns to have met Anthony. To gain a friend, a companion in him.
Loki took a deep breath, awed as he sensed (and saw) Anthony's core around him. He had known before, of course; hadn't needed proof of it. And he only felt breathless glee as Anthony's essence radiated it nonetheless, clear and plain for him – and only him – to see: Anthony was ... brilliant. His very being glowed with his kindness and care, his passion, his mirth and mischief, his wit and genius. Anthony shone like the brightest of stars, burned like the hottest of suns. He was incredible.
He was a wonder – a complete and utter marvel.
And he was ... Loki's. His beloved and bonded; his partner for life.
Norns.
Loki felt like he was close to melting into a puddle, so helplessly pleased and delighted and warm that he was entirely unsure what to do with himself. Slowly, he felt himself drift back along the bond, away from Anthony's core and into his own. And he couldn't muster even a bit of disappointment at that, because he felt Anthony. He felt the bond, strong and clear, and Anthony's presence on its other end. His heart thrummed with an overwhelming amount of love and happiness – his, and Anthony's. And through it shone a new star, a light nestled in Loki's chest and warming him from the inside. It felt like ... like Anthony. Just there, right next to Loki's heart, under Anthony's hand on him.
Loki exhaled a trembling breath, eyes stinging as he basked in the connection and closeness. His fingers on Anthony's hand tightened, pressing it into his own chest. He could sense Anthony – was, in a way, just as aware of his presence in front of him as he was aware of his own body.
He felt Anthony as if he was part of him. And, Loki thought, stunned as he focused back on the light in his chest, he actually seemed to be, now.
Loki's eyes swum as he opened them, awed and overwhelmed as he gazed at Anthony. Anthony was looking back at him, love and wonder in his similarly swimming eyes. And just as he saw it, Loki felt it through the bond. It was ... entirely too good for words.
Speechless, Loki closed their distance, tilting his head down to rest his forehead against Anthony's, eyes falling closed alongside his beloved's. He felt a swell of fondness across the bond, and he smiled even as it only made his eyes water more.
They stayed like that, simply breathing, and feeling each other. Loki definitely needed the stillness to calm himself (as little as that seemed possible, anyway), and judging from the sheer volume of emotions transmitting through the bond, Anthony seemed in need of it as well.
Finally, they had settled a little, though Loki was rather sure that it wouldn't take much to reduce him to a breathless, overwhelmed pile of emotions once again. But ... that was alright. Anthony would be right there with him, likely just as overwhelmed, and Loki found he rather liked that. His lips spread in a smile, a spark of amusement in his chest at the thought.
There was a small spike of curiosity, bright and inquisitive as it transmitted across the bond from Anthony, and Loki found he really liked that as well – liked the sensation of it as it lit up his own chest.
With a smile, he drew back to look down at Anthony. At his wonderful, amazing partner. Handsome and smiling, eyes soft and overflowing with love, and Loki had only lifted his head for a moment before he was already leaning down again, overcome with the desire to kiss him.
Their lips met and he smiled into it, warm and happy, chest aglow with the light shining next to his heart. Slowly, their kiss deepened, and as he tilted his head and raised his left hand to cradle Anthony's face, he felt the light in his chest change a little. His focus split between Anthony's mouth and the light, and as he licked Anthony's lower lip and opened his mouth to meet Anthony's tongue in a languid caress, the light dimmed a little in radiance, softening and gaining warmth instead.
Hold on–
Loki drew back, excited and downright thrilled at his discovery. Was the light Anthony's mind? His beloved’s eyes snapped open, and the light sharpened at the same time, losing some of its softness and exchanging it for illuminating brilliance. Anthony blinked at him, Loki feeling his confusion just as Anthony would be feeling his excitement.
Just to be sure, Loki ducked his head again, capturing Anthony's lips and engaging him in a heated kiss. And just as before, the light softened. It gentled, and rather than rays of light, started emitting waves of warmth that rippled through Loki's chest, filling every last niche and crevice. Anthony seemed lost in the kiss, and if that wasn't proof enough, he had even said it himself earlier, in his vows: how kissing Loki 'wiped his brain clean'.
Oh, this was delightful.
Loki wanted to hold onto that thought a little longer; bask in the glee of it and perhaps ponder the effects different actions of his would have on the light, but found his own focus dwindling fast as well. Anthony's lips on his, as well as the veritable flood of sheer enjoyment from his beloved's end of the bond soon had him mindlessly kissing Anthony back, the only thoughts in his mind vague yet indisputable notions of 'Yes' and 'More'.
He kissed Anthony, kissed and kissed him; beside himself with their combined happiness flowing back and forth through the bond. He felt Anthony's face under his hand, Anthony's lips on his, Anthony's presence and emotions through the bond, and Anthony's light inside him. It was so good, so entirely fantastic and incredible, that for a moment, Loki feared that he would simply burst under it; uncontainable elation and joy cracking his skin and pushing out of him.
But it held. Loki's skin persisted; weathered his emotions. His insides were alight with wonder and happiness, with love and glee and anticipation.
To think that he would get to have this ... that he would get to be with Anthony like this for years. For decades, centuries and millennia.
His heart beat strong and true, pulsing heated joy through his veins. And just as he felt the light in his chest, warming his heart and fitting inside him as if it had belonged there all along, so could he feel his own certainty. His sureness of their mutual love, and his determination to do his utmost to see it through years and years. Through joy and sorrow, through lightness and hardship.
The vows he had spoken today sat inside him like they had become part of his very being. His blood thrummed with promise, with intent. To cherish Anthony and their time together. To step closer, show himself and hold onto Anthony, loving and caring for him. To hold his hand and walk with him, today, tomorrow and every day after.
Forever, and ever.
~
~ ~
In love and good faith I reach out to you,
wanting to learn and understand, to touch and embrace.
For as long as we wish it,
one day or one year.
I shall step towards you.
I welcome you in and let you know me,
lay my heart bare as you do yours.
For as long as we wish it,
millennia or moons.
I shall show myself to you.
With strength and care I hold onto you,
striving to see and consider, to regard and accept.
For as long as we wish it,
whether instants or aeons.
I shall keep hold of you.
Let our paths be united, two souls now bonded.
My hand in yours and our hearts as one.
For as long as we wish it, whether now
or for ever, we will be with each other.
We shall walk together.
~ ~
~
(And so they did.)
~
Fin