Page 262 of Dark Haven Omegaverse

“It is weird. It took me a while to adjust to my lack of hallucinations. They were a constant feature in my life and now it’s just reality or magic,” I agreed. “But that aside, I don’t blame you for being mad. I’m sorry your afterlife is starting with a fight.”

“I am, too, because this is wild. We’ve got time to actually spend together without meds or shit getting in the way,” she said. “Thanks, Harlow. For being the one person who actually cared enough to get to know me. You’re the only real friend I’ve had. The guys were friends, but not like this.”

“You were the same for me,” I promised. “We’ll figure this out. Who knows what we can do when I actually understand my powers and this realm.”

She flopped down on the floor, spreading her arms and legs as she stared at the crystalline ceiling. The clicking of claws on the ground announced Sköll entering.

I hadn’t seen the demon dog since we’d been back, and I felt bad I’d been so in and out.

“There’s a good boy,” I cooed as I crouched down and scratched his flank. Layne froze at the sight of him, but seeing my reaction, she didn’t freak out when he went to investigate her.

I’d watched him avoid all of my guys, so when he curled up at her side, resting his skull-clad head on her stomach, I couldn’t help but smile.

“God, I need a drink. Why is there no booze in this realm?” Her eyes were wide, but her hand went to the creature, petting him and slowly relaxing.

A loud burst of air announced an intrusion, Loki popping in beside us. Sköll let out a grunt but didn’t stir more than that.

“I’m surprised he’s out of hiding. He didn’t take to Hel for a solid year,” he noted. “Ask and you shall receive, my newly dead friend.”

The God of Chaos enjoyed the show and loved to show up just at the right time. At least this time he came bearing gifts, holding what looked like a wine bottle with a language I didn’t know, adorning the bottle.

Layne sat up and took the offering, not even asking a question before popping off the top and chugging. Sköll moved again to snuggle in beside her, only giving a brief side-eye for moving on him.

When Layne came up for air, she swiped a hand across her mouth, eyes wide but excited.

“Holy shit, that’s amazing. If this is what booze of the gods tastes like, sign me up,” she said with a hiccup. Clearly, the alcohol was strong.

“Glad to see you out of that place,” Loki said with a wink, letting his eyes sweep over her. “And don’t worry, I can send more.”

She blew him a kiss before taking another long pull of the dark liquid.

I shifted as Loki turned his attention to me. I knew what was coming and I wasn’t ready for it at all.

“Did you figure anything out about our arrangement?” he asked.

“Well, I know I can put souls back in their bodies and create wraiths. I told you before, if there is a soul to be found or some way to save her, I’ll try,” I told him. “What’s the urgency? Have they closed in?”

“Odin and I may not be the best buddies in the world,” he snarked, “but the gods talk. He’s getting closer every day and has the entirety of the godly realm looking for her. I don’t think I can save her. She’s a pain in the ass but she’s my daughter. All she wanted was a chance at freedom and love.”

“Helllll, even I cannnn sympathize with that,” Layne slurred, wobbling as she tried to stand up next to me.

“Why don’t you sit,” Loki said as he conjured a chair and gently pushed her into it. I’d never seen him be so soft with anyone.

Interesting.

“Good idea,” she agreed. “Hey, you want some, bestie?”

Despite my better judgment, I took the bottle she offered. It was somehow still just as full as when Loki gave it to her but I didn’t question it.

The taste was amazing. A mix of flavors, both sweet and tart, burst over my tongue. It was better than anything I’d ever put in my mouth.

Despite the urge to, I didn’t drink as hard as Layne did, taking one drink before handing it back. Even that one sip had my head swimming in the best way.

I turned back to Loki and gave him what I hoped was a reassuring smile to keep him from arguing with me.

“I’ll try my best.”

“Your best better save her life.”

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