The hybrid in the cell (Complete)

Chess

*Emily*

I find myself unexpectedly eager to return to work. It's a simple job and while Loki can be peculiar at times, he's not truly intimidating. A part of me, buried deep within, even looks forward to our conversations, if only he would tone down his flirtatious tendencies and stop hinting at things he has no business knowing.

Earlier this morning, I had delivered his breakfast while he was still sleeping. He appeared so youthful and serene in his slumber that it was almost disarming. I felt a wave of absurdity wash over me, standing there and observing his peaceful repose.

As lunchtime rolls around, a cheerful tune finds its way to my lips, and I can't help but whistle along. The source of my buoyant mood is unclear, but it's infectious, eliciting smiles from the usually stern-faced guards.

Stepping into the elevator, my heart thrums in my chest, a strange rhythm of anticipation and anxiety. As the doors open to Loki's cell, I balance the lunch tray in my hands, scanning the room for its usual occupant. "Hello, where are you?" I call out when I find he's not in his usual spot.

That is when he emerges from what could only generously be described as a bathroom, tucked away in a corner. A relief washes over me, but it’s short-lived as I take in his appearance. I'm grateful that I have already set down the tray, otherwise, I might have dropped it in surprise.

He is fresh from a shower, the only thing shielding him from complete exposure is a small towel hung low on his slim hips. He is not as broad or muscular as most lycans, but he is tall and lean, his muscles clearly defined. I can't help but get caught in the sight, something that doesn't escape him.

His smug smile makes my cheeks burn. "What a pleasure, Lady Emily," he greets me, and I can only hope my voice doesn't shake when I reply.

I chastise myself silently, trying to regain composure and reminding myself of who Loki is and what he represents. "For the Goddess sake, Loki, put on some clothes," I blurt out, flustered.

"Does the naked body offend you?" His voice is laced with genuine curiosity, as though he sees nothing inappropriate about his state of undress.

I take a deep breath, forcing myself to look anywhere but at him. "No, not generally, Loki. I just prefer to choose when and whom I see in such a... state."

"Yet, it seems you are, understandably, appreciating the view." His smile widens, eyes sparkling with mischief. With a nonchalant shrug, he saunters towards the dresser, dropping the towel.

I quickly shut my eyes to preserve some semblance of decorum. But curiosity wins, and I steal a quick glance. I have to admit, his backside is remarkably well sculpted, and I can feel my cheeks flush at the thought.

By the time I dare to open my eyes again, he has slipped on a pair of loose pants and a white T-shirt. He turns to face me, an amused glint in his eyes. "Satisfied? Self-control reestablished?"

A glare is my only response, earning a chuckle from him. It seems he finds my discomfiture entertaining.

He strolls over to the table where a chessboard now sits. Grateful for the diversion, I seize the opportunity to change the subject. "Was the chessboard on your list?"

He nods, his slender finger tracing the edge of the board. "Yes, I needed a distraction. Do you play?"

"I used to play with my grandfather years ago," I confess, although truth be told, I wasn't particularly skilled and my grandfather often let me win.

With an inviting look, he pushes out the other chair with his foot. "Come, play with me. I promise to be gentle."

Despite his suggestive tone, I take the seat. After all, I have nothing else to do, and I can't let him see he has got the better of me.

Throughout our game, the image of his earlier state of undress lingers in the back of my mind, an unwelcome distraction that keeps resurfacing. It's a memory I wish I could forget, yet it stubbornly clings, refusing to be dismissed.

As the game progresses, I study Loki's moves, observing the way his long fingers glide over the chess pieces, his focus unwavering. His strategic mind is clearly at work, each move calculated with precision. I try to counter his tactics, but my attempts feel clumsy in comparison.

As our final round comes to an end, I lean back in the chair, regarding him with a sigh. "Well, you have thoroughly beaten me, Loki."

He grins, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. Despite myself, I can't help but return the smile. It felt good to play again, even if I hadn't won a single game.

Looking at the time, I realize my shift is nearing its end. I rise from my chair, smoothing out my uniform. "I'm afraid I have to go, Loki. My shift is almost over."

He nods, a hint of disappointment flashing across his face. "Till next time, Lady Emily."

There's a strange warmth to his words, a cordiality I hadn't expected. I nod in return, offering him a small smile before stepping out of the cell, the image of his bare form still haunting my thoughts.