They both stood on their hind legs, looking over the edge of their pen like protective older brothers.
Thor snorted. “I’ve had them for centuries, and yet they worry more for your safety than mine. I’m not sure how I feel about that.”
“Maybe it’s because they’ve read the stories about you.”
Thor didn’t move for a moment, and then he burst into a deep booming laugh that made her smile.
“That was a good one. You’re witty. I like that.”
The tension between them eased, and she relaxed.
“All right, you ready?”
She had no idea, but she nodded anyway.
Thor's powerful arms enveloped her waist once more, and a wave of warmth surged through her that had nothing to do with her magic. Her thoughts muddied with sensations she'd never encountered. An intense heat suffused her skin, while her stomach danced. Not anxiety. Something altogether different.
The low rumble of his breath resonated in the silence, rhythmic like distant thunder. The press of him against her back solid and reassuring.
A scent lingered around them. The fresh aroma reminiscent of rain-soaked earth mingled with a hint of ozone.
Thor said something, and she cleared her thoughts and focused on what they were doing.
“What?”
“Where were your arms when he grabbed you?”
"Uh..." Concentrate girl. He'll think you're an idiot if you can't keep your head while he is trying to teach you. "In front of me."
"And what were you holding?"
"The tray."
"Right. You have options, but I'm gonna teach you a few of the easiest."
Her heart pounded so hard she was sure he felt it through her back. He tightened his hold like hardbound ropes. His warm chest hit her back as her body relaxed into him.
For a moment, wave after wave of warmth crashed over her like the heated waves of the ocean back home.
"Ready?" Thor asked close to her ear.
She nodded, trying to gain control of her mind and body.
"First, throw your head back and smash me in the face," said Thor. "A broken nose is a great way to make someone let go of you. Try it."
She shook her head. "I don't want to hurt you."
"Trust me. I'll dodge. But the guy grabbing you won't because he won't expect it. Go on. Throw your head back hard and quick."
Elle closed her eyes and leaned her head back until it rested on his shoulder.
"Uh... no," he said. "You aren't using me as a pillow. Faster and harder. If you do it like that, they are more likely to think you are enjoying it."
Elle took a deep breath and tried again. This time, she whipped her head back and caught Thor on the right cheek.
"I'm sorry," she said. "I'm sorry."
"No," said Thor. "No, that was perfect. You're faster than I thought you'd be."
