[At first Don brushes off the offer to sit. He doesn't need to. He's perfectly fine with standing by and holding onto the rail. That decision is quickly retconned once the train sets off and he slips onto the bench with the boys, instead choosing to look up at Loki for conversation with his butt firmly planted in a seat the whole time. Kevin complains that he's taking up too much space, Don cooly comments he needs to squish and deal with it (with love, of course, and a gentle elbow to the side). He does have to stand once they make their transfer, and he holds on for dear life with both hands the rest of the way but tries not to bring any attention to it. He's old, okay? Leave him alone.
The only rules Don leaves for Sean and Kevin once they get to the party - stay where I can see you, do not take anything from the punch bowls without asking first, and be polite. Pretty simple guidelines. It doesn't look like there are many kids here, and that worries him, but as long as Kevin doesn't figure out a way to set the place on fire it should be okay. Sean is an angel (mostly).
The introductions are fine. He likes meeting new people, casually dropping that he's a small business owner. At some point during these hellos a drink ends up in his hand and he mentally reminds himself not to get too crazy. Never mind the fact that one drink eventually turns into three, four... and why yes those are his kids. He's a single dad (in case you didn't know), and he's casually flirting like one, easily slipping right into the chat-ups some of the ladies are directing his way without much thought.]
[ Loki makes it a point not to laugh when Don finally sits. A smile offered down at him as the train moves. Standing holding the rail above him in that fine suit. He was happy like this, around Don and his boys. He always felt content around them, which was probably dangerous when he's nearly certain Don is completely straight. It's fine, he's happy being the man's best friend.
The rules the boys were given were simple, and Loki made sure to add, as he would at all functions, he would invite them too. If anyone gives them trouble, point them his way, or come get him.
Loki was leaning against the frame of one of the windows as the countdown was starting. Women were flirting hard with Don, a single dad, and looking as he did. Loki was a little jealous but hid it well. Chanting with the boys as they watched fireworks and the ball getting ready to drop. One of the ladies, an older woman, a brunette with white streaks of age in her hair, whispering to Don that she would love to be his midnight kiss. While another called out it was time, people coming towards the window as counting started, Loki shifted to stand behind the boys so no one would push them from the spot they had claimed for a while.]
Be sure to make a wish, both of you. Don't waste your new year's magic. [ A playful comment, but something Frigga used to say to him and Thor often on New Year's Eve. ]
[What an extremely unexpected change of pace - Sean and Kevin ringing in the new year with Loki instead of their father. Don is there with them, sure, but much too swept up by the various drinks and flirtations being flung his way. Flustered and flattered and most definitely distracted. He doesn't get out much, rarely has the chance to let go and ignore his responsibilities.
So here he is. Attempting to brush off this woman's advances, politely declining her offer for a New Year's Kiss. Hesitant to do so, maybe not being as firm as he should.
It happens anyway, this stranger telling him it's not a big deal. He's single, right? What's the harm? He's still wary, looking to step away, but finally shrugging and giving in. Booze on both of their lips and tongues as the countdown ends and the place erupts into cheers. It's not bad, but it's nothing special. He hasn't kissed anyone since...]
[ It was a strange change of pace, but one that Loki didnt mind in the least. Spending time with the boys had become a fun part of his time around Rosie's family.
The part he didn't like and didn't expect was the jealousy he felt flair up when he saw the woman kiss Don. Oh hell no. More so when Don looked at least a little uncomfortable.
Still he kept it to himself, and as the party died down he saw the woman trying to convince Don to come with her. He had stolen Don away at least once but this time he asked the boys to go collect their coats from the hostess. As he walked over, tapping Don's shoulder. ]
Don, we have to head out now. Time to get the boys to bed.
Hm? [He turns so quickly on his heel he nearly splashes his drink. But Don is all lopsided smiles as he realizes who's come to call.] Lokes - hey! Hi. [His free hand goes for Loki's shoulder, giving it a rather hearty squeeze.] Where ya been? Didja say hi to Carla?
[Carla. That's the woman's name. The one who keeps trying to steal Don away for herself. He's obviously had a few too many drinks, and he's more than pliable at the moment. Not thinking straight in the slightest.]
[ The boys were off getting their coats, and out of sight as Loki offered Don an awkward smile before it turned icy towards Carla. Ignoring the first question for now, just from his mood. ] Oh, no I haven't, not in years. Isn't that right, Carla?
[ The ice queen slipping through before he looked back to Don, the mask slipping for the man again. ]
The boys and I are heading out, if you want to stay, I insist you call me, so I can send a car for you when you are ready. [ He spoke it lower to Don, as much as it hurt he had a feeling Don might want to spend more time with Carla. Though part of him worried about leaving him here.]
Wha- already? [Squint.] The night is young - there's more party! [Don makes a sweeping gesture with his drink hand and - nope, still not spilling any. What luck. He's so sloppy once would think this is a recipe for disaster.
He's entirely oblivious to how Carla and Loki are glaring daggers at each other though. Thankfully. If he were any more sober he'd feel uncomfortable. But right now? He is riding high and probably one or two more drinks away from hitting the floor.]
Don, it's nearly one thirty. And Kevin has been showing signs of trouble due to being tired. So, I am going to take them home. Please decide if you would like to stay or come with us.
[ His tone gentle, a strange look crossing Carla's face, she's known the ice queen for years. Though, she tightens her hold on Don. As if a silent challenge. One Loki is fine rising too if Don gives the word. Loki was the last person to judge a drunken hookup, but he wanted better for Don. ]
[Don is trying to focus on Loki and what he has to say. Really. But his attention keeps wavering, and he can hardly stand upright without swaying. He ends up staring right at Loki's mouth, the way he's forming his words. That seems to do the trick. He leans in some, but puts a hand to Loki's shoulder before he ends up falling forward entirely.]
Is he okay? [The concern is genuine. Somewhere through all the booze and the partying he's able to tap into his Dad Abilities.] Maybe I should - we should go.
[Carla doesn't like that sudden shift and attempts to pull him back. She manages to whisper into his ear, and he straightens up some while listening. Something about how he shouldn't worry about. They'll be quick if it's really an issue.]
[ Loki's glare stayed on Carla, as he wanted to scream on the inside. ]
Sugar crash, I offered to carry him down to the train station to spare him the walk if he got my coat. Sean is with him.
[ Loki didn't read lips but something about that rubbed him wrong. ]
Hey, Carla, was it? [ That was on purpose. ] His kid's feeling sick, let the man decide for himself. You do not want to make me your enemy tonight. [ Looking back to Don.]
Last chance, Don. I wont hold it against you either way, the boys will be safe with me.
[Yeah - nope. Don doesn't like the sound of this at all. He may be trashed, but he's never too trashed to see that his kids need him. Despite Carla attempting to be the devil on his shoulder whispering such temptations into his ear, his focus is fully on Loki. Looking straight ahead, searching those eyes, trying to see through his own drunken stupor.]
No no - yeah. I think... I gotta go. I should - go. [He starts nodding as Loki talks, filling in the gaps with more and more of them as he mentally convinces himself yes this is the right thing to do. His sons are most important, not some woman he just met at a party.]
Carla, hey - [He turns to face her. She's not happy, the scowl on her face directed straight at Loki. It's like she's not even paying an ounce of attention to Don while he attempts to apologize.] I'm real sorry about this but - I gotta be there for my boys.
[It's (oddly) easy to dispatch her, but that doesn't make the way she turns on her heel to leave hurt any less. Don is frowning, looking after her as she goes, then down at his almost-empty glass. That goes on the nearest table, and he's slowly, slowly making his way to follow Loki out. Trying to remain steady despite his head pounding and legs feeling like jello.
To say he's disappointed would be an understatement. When was the last time someone showed any interest in him like that?]
[ When Don looks past Loki, Kevin does look a little cranky, he has Loki's long coat over his arms, as Sean walks with him towards the adults. Loki was still glaring at Carla until the boys come into view, turning to take his coat as Kevin offered it up. Loki slipped it on, before holding his arms down to the boy.
Sean asking his dad if hes okay, having not seen him this deep in awhile. Probably since their mom died.
Loki lifted Kevin up into his arms and lets the boy snuggle against his shoulder, offering the other arm Don's way. ]
Come on, let's get home.
[ Some of Loki's rich acquaintances watching him and the family. Give how often Loki leaves with people drunk and clingy, it was a shock to see the Odinson sober leading a man and children out of the party to the cold outside for the train station, he took Don's arm either way to make sure he was stable. Looking to Sean now and then to make sure hes okay too. His mood clearly better, while Kevin knocked out hard against Loki's shoulder.]
Hey sweetheart - yeah. [He nods, offering a rather bleary-eyed smile.] Yeah, I'm fine. [And he takes Sean's hand. He's a bit old for that, sure, but it just.. feels appropriate. Sean doesn't fuss, just hold his father's hand like he used to when he was younger.
It's late and everyone's tired. Don feels like he'll pass out if he stops moving. He really didn't hydrate properly or even attempt to curb his alcohol intake. He'll be embarrassed in the morning (or the afternoon - whenever his drunk ass decides to wake up).
Loki taking his arm barely registers with Don until he's leaning against the other man's side. And it's only then he mumbles a sheepish thank you. The walk to the the train is a cold, silent one. He's wobbly, but he manages. Look at them - walking together like some semblance of a family. Loki and Don side-by-side with a child each.]
[ Sean leaned on Don, just in case as they moved like a family down to the cold of the train station. Loki's coat shifted to help cover Kevin more. Once they were off the street and down on the train rushing back towards Bed–Stuy.
Loki finally looked down to Don. Offering a sad smile. ]
Sorry about that, Don. I just know what she's like. I didn't want to take the boys home without you. I hope you are not upset.
[ All that attitude gone, still holding Kevin in one arm like he weighs nothing. The other hand holding the rail above his head.]
[Sitting is good. He's grateful for it once they're in the train car. Still holding onto Sean's hand, his head keeps tipping to the side, almost like he'll fall asleep at any moment. The small talk is also good. He's barely conscience of it, but at least it's holding his attention... just enough to be helpful, anyway.]
No, no. [The laziest head shake.] It's fine. I shouldn't'a done that.
[Sean is nearly asleep, so Don lets go of his hand and instead wraps an arm around his shoulder to keep him close to his side as the train barrels on.]
[ Loki can't help but smile down at Don. He's adorable like this, even if he knows the man feels bad. ]
Don, your human. No one could blame you. Besides, you trust me, right? I would have taken care of the boys either way. I am just glad you are here. I know what Carla is like.
[ Nodding to Sean, knowing he has to be tired too.] I will have a car waiting as soon as we get off the train to get us home.
Thanks, Lokes. Don't know what I'd do without you.
[Probably make a messy drunken fool of himself. But that situation's been narrowly avoided and Don is sure he'll be immensely grateful for it once the killer hangover is done and over with the next day.
He manages the meekest smile but isn't able to hold it for very long. He's too ashamed, too intoxicated. He settles back against the seat, keeping a firm hold on his kid until the train eventually comes to a stop. The rest does more harm than good, and it takes a bit of coercion to get him to stand when it's time to leave and head to the car for the last leg of the trip.]
[ Sure. Loki was a catty bitch at times, but he didn't trust his innocent friend with someone like Carla. That is how one wakes up with a cattail butt plug without having consented to it yet.
Loki is fine with it, but he has a feeling Don might have panicked if he woke like that without his boys. ]
You'd do as you always do, but with less fun. [ Flashing a grin as he shifted Kevin when the boy wigged. A natural despite not wanting children.] Come on, this is our stop, follow me.
[ It didn't take long for the car to drop them at the house. Loki leading them in through the bottom door under the stoop, moving to lay Kevin down on whatever bed that Sean didn't take. Walking out to see how Don was doing as he let Fenrir out once last time in the backyard. Hella late, but Fenrir was cuddling with Don tonight, not Lokes.]
[It's a good joke, one that makes Don chuckle even as he slumps into a state of somewhat-sleep in his seat. It doesn't last very long - and mostly does more harm than good - but he's grateful for being able to shut his eyes, even if only for what seems like a few moments.]
Mm. [He's sluggish to get up, but at least he doesn't drop Sean. He shuffles along after Loki, doing his best to remain upright and walk in as straight a line as possible. He bumps into his friend's side more than once, and he's nearly snoring once he hits the backseat of the rideshare.
A total mess, but at least he manages to get home in one piece and get both his boys to bed.]
I think I need to start chugging water and aspirin now. Before I sleep for a whole week. [Was he already checking cabinets? Yes. This is his way of asking for help. Please help, Loki.]
Just a moment. [ He called back, but not too loudly as to not bother the boys. Once Fenrir was back inside, he walked over to the cabinet to pull down some aspirin.
Holding it to Don after loosening the cap for him, he moved then to the fridge and pulled out a container of water and a cup, some ice added before it was placed before Don.
Leaving against the counter, he offered a playful smile. ] No, you'll sleep to tomorrow afternoon, then you'll wake up with a hangover and from there, I will take care of you for once.
[Don's stubborn but also very sleepy so he'll keep up the fruitless search until Loki hand delivers the bottle of pills to him directly. Mumbling a sheepish thanks he swallows two and then washes them down with water. It's way too cold and makes his teeth chatter and he nearly laughs about it.]
Is that a promise? [He gives Loki a rather pointed look, holding the silence for dramatic effect before taking another sip of water.]
[He looks from Loki's face to the proffered arm and there's a moment's delay before he accepts it. He probably doesn't need it - he's a bit more "awake" (if you could even say that) thanks to the cold weather and the equally cold water - but he accepts it regardless. Giving Loki the slightest squeeze.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
The only rules Don leaves for Sean and Kevin once they get to the party - stay where I can see you, do not take anything from the punch bowls without asking first, and be polite. Pretty simple guidelines. It doesn't look like there are many kids here, and that worries him, but as long as Kevin doesn't figure out a way to set the place on fire it should be okay. Sean is an angel (mostly).
The introductions are fine. He likes meeting new people, casually dropping that he's a small business owner. At some point during these hellos a drink ends up in his hand and he mentally reminds himself not to get too crazy. Never mind the fact that one drink eventually turns into three, four... and why yes those are his kids. He's a single dad (in case you didn't know), and he's casually flirting like one, easily slipping right into the chat-ups some of the ladies are directing his way without much thought.]
no subject
The rules the boys were given were simple, and Loki made sure to add, as he would at all functions, he would invite them too. If anyone gives them trouble, point them his way, or come get him.
Loki was leaning against the frame of one of the windows as the countdown was starting. Women were flirting hard with Don, a single dad, and looking as he did. Loki was a little jealous but hid it well. Chanting with the boys as they watched fireworks and the ball getting ready to drop. One of the ladies, an older woman, a brunette with white streaks of age in her hair, whispering to Don that she would love to be his midnight kiss. While another called out it was time, people coming towards the window as counting started, Loki shifted to stand behind the boys so no one would push them from the spot they had claimed for a while.]
Be sure to make a wish, both of you. Don't waste your new year's magic. [ A playful comment, but something Frigga used to say to him and Thor often on New Year's Eve. ]
no subject
So here he is. Attempting to brush off this woman's advances, politely declining her offer for a New Year's Kiss. Hesitant to do so, maybe not being as firm as he should.
It happens anyway, this stranger telling him it's not a big deal. He's single, right? What's the harm? He's still wary, looking to step away, but finally shrugging and giving in. Booze on both of their lips and tongues as the countdown ends and the place erupts into cheers. It's not bad, but it's nothing special. He hasn't kissed anyone since...]
no subject
The part he didn't like and didn't expect was the jealousy he felt flair up when he saw the woman kiss Don. Oh hell no. More so when Don looked at least a little uncomfortable.
Still he kept it to himself, and as the party died down he saw the woman trying to convince Don to come with her. He had stolen Don away at least once but this time he asked the boys to go collect their coats from the hostess. As he walked over, tapping Don's shoulder. ]
Don, we have to head out now. Time to get the boys to bed.
no subject
[Carla. That's the woman's name. The one who keeps trying to steal Don away for herself. He's obviously had a few too many drinks, and he's more than pliable at the moment. Not thinking straight in the slightest.]
no subject
[ The ice queen slipping through before he looked back to Don, the mask slipping for the man again. ]
The boys and I are heading out, if you want to stay, I insist you call me, so I can send a car for you when you are ready. [ He spoke it lower to Don, as much as it hurt he had a feeling Don might want to spend more time with Carla. Though part of him worried about leaving him here.]
no subject
He's entirely oblivious to how Carla and Loki are glaring daggers at each other though. Thankfully. If he were any more sober he'd feel uncomfortable. But right now? He is riding high and probably one or two more drinks away from hitting the floor.]
no subject
[ His tone gentle, a strange look crossing Carla's face, she's known the ice queen for years. Though, she tightens her hold on Don. As if a silent challenge. One Loki is fine rising too if Don gives the word. Loki was the last person to judge a drunken hookup, but he wanted better for Don. ]
no subject
Is he okay? [The concern is genuine. Somewhere through all the booze and the partying he's able to tap into his Dad Abilities.] Maybe I should - we should go.
[Carla doesn't like that sudden shift and attempts to pull him back. She manages to whisper into his ear, and he straightens up some while listening. Something about how he shouldn't worry about. They'll be quick if it's really an issue.]
no subject
Sugar crash, I offered to carry him down to the train station to spare him the walk if he got my coat. Sean is with him.
[ Loki didn't read lips but something about that rubbed him wrong. ]
Hey, Carla, was it? [ That was on purpose. ] His kid's feeling sick, let the man decide for himself. You do not want to make me your enemy tonight. [ Looking back to Don.]
Last chance, Don. I wont hold it against you either way, the boys will be safe with me.
no subject
No no - yeah. I think... I gotta go. I should - go. [He starts nodding as Loki talks, filling in the gaps with more and more of them as he mentally convinces himself yes this is the right thing to do. His sons are most important, not some woman he just met at a party.]
Carla, hey - [He turns to face her. She's not happy, the scowl on her face directed straight at Loki. It's like she's not even paying an ounce of attention to Don while he attempts to apologize.] I'm real sorry about this but - I gotta be there for my boys.
[It's (oddly) easy to dispatch her, but that doesn't make the way she turns on her heel to leave hurt any less. Don is frowning, looking after her as she goes, then down at his almost-empty glass. That goes on the nearest table, and he's slowly, slowly making his way to follow Loki out. Trying to remain steady despite his head pounding and legs feeling like jello.
To say he's disappointed would be an understatement. When was the last time someone showed any interest in him like that?]
no subject
Sean asking his dad if hes okay, having not seen him this deep in awhile. Probably since their mom died.
Loki lifted Kevin up into his arms and lets the boy snuggle against his shoulder, offering the other arm Don's way. ]
Come on, let's get home.
[ Some of Loki's rich acquaintances watching him and the family. Give how often Loki leaves with people drunk and clingy, it was a shock to see the Odinson sober leading a man and children out of the party to the cold outside for the train station, he took Don's arm either way to make sure he was stable. Looking to Sean now and then to make sure hes okay too. His mood clearly better, while Kevin knocked out hard against Loki's shoulder.]
no subject
Hey sweetheart - yeah. [He nods, offering a rather bleary-eyed smile.] Yeah, I'm fine. [And he takes Sean's hand. He's a bit old for that, sure, but it just.. feels appropriate. Sean doesn't fuss, just hold his father's hand like he used to when he was younger.
It's late and everyone's tired. Don feels like he'll pass out if he stops moving. He really didn't hydrate properly or even attempt to curb his alcohol intake. He'll be embarrassed in the morning (or the afternoon - whenever his drunk ass decides to wake up).
Loki taking his arm barely registers with Don until he's leaning against the other man's side. And it's only then he mumbles a sheepish thank you. The walk to the the train is a cold, silent one. He's wobbly, but he manages. Look at them - walking together like some semblance of a family. Loki and Don side-by-side with a child each.]
no subject
Loki finally looked down to Don. Offering a sad smile. ]
Sorry about that, Don. I just know what she's like. I didn't want to take the boys home without you. I hope you are not upset.
[ All that attitude gone, still holding Kevin in one arm like he weighs nothing. The other hand holding the rail above his head.]
no subject
No, no. [The laziest head shake.] It's fine. I shouldn't'a done that.
[Sean is nearly asleep, so Don lets go of his hand and instead wraps an arm around his shoulder to keep him close to his side as the train barrels on.]
I feel like an idiot.
no subject
Don, your human. No one could blame you. Besides, you trust me, right? I would have taken care of the boys either way. I am just glad you are here. I know what Carla is like.
[ Nodding to Sean, knowing he has to be tired too.] I will have a car waiting as soon as we get off the train to get us home.
no subject
Thanks, Lokes. Don't know what I'd do without you.
[Probably make a messy drunken fool of himself. But that situation's been narrowly avoided and Don is sure he'll be immensely grateful for it once the killer hangover is done and over with the next day.
He manages the meekest smile but isn't able to hold it for very long. He's too ashamed, too intoxicated. He settles back against the seat, keeping a firm hold on his kid until the train eventually comes to a stop. The rest does more harm than good, and it takes a bit of coercion to get him to stand when it's time to leave and head to the car for the last leg of the trip.]
no subject
Loki is fine with it, but he has a feeling Don might have panicked if he woke like that without his boys. ]
You'd do as you always do, but with less fun. [ Flashing a grin as he shifted Kevin when the boy wigged. A natural despite not wanting children.] Come on, this is our stop, follow me.
[ It didn't take long for the car to drop them at the house. Loki leading them in through the bottom door under the stoop, moving to lay Kevin down on whatever bed that Sean didn't take. Walking out to see how Don was doing as he let Fenrir out once last time in the backyard. Hella late, but Fenrir was cuddling with Don tonight, not Lokes.]
no subject
Mm. [He's sluggish to get up, but at least he doesn't drop Sean. He shuffles along after Loki, doing his best to remain upright and walk in as straight a line as possible. He bumps into his friend's side more than once, and he's nearly snoring once he hits the backseat of the rideshare.
A total mess, but at least he manages to get home in one piece and get both his boys to bed.]
I think I need to start chugging water and aspirin now. Before I sleep for a whole week. [Was he already checking cabinets? Yes. This is his way of asking for help. Please help, Loki.]
no subject
Holding it to Don after loosening the cap for him, he moved then to the fridge and pulled out a container of water and a cup, some ice added before it was placed before Don.
Leaving against the counter, he offered a playful smile. ] No, you'll sleep to tomorrow afternoon, then you'll wake up with a hangover and from there, I will take care of you for once.
no subject
Is that a promise? [He gives Loki a rather pointed look, holding the silence for dramatic effect before taking another sip of water.]
no subject
It is a promise, Don. Come on, lets get you to bed.
no subject
Thanks, Lokes. You really took care of us all tonight. I'm sorry I'm such a mess.
no subject
Come on, let's go get you settled in.
no subject
Thanks. Again.