Loki snapped awake, grabbing whatever it was that had touched his hair and leapt to his feet with a growl. He was confused when the hand was so small and immediately released it with a look of shock and concern.
“Oh… oh, Sigyn, I’m… I…” he floundered trying to clear his head of sleep and adrenaline.
Sigyn stepped back with a little yelp, her other hand flying to her chest to press against her heart, which was now pounding. “M-my lord! I did not — you were — no insult was intended!” She ducked her head hard, wondering if she should drop to her knees.
Taking a deep, calming breath Loki willed himself to relax. All was well, there was no danger.
“Please, my dear Sigyn, there is nothing for you to apologize for. My…” he hesitated, wondering how much he should tell her, “my past has made me… on edge and extremely… cautious… when I am…. vulnerable. I am the one who need apologize for my actions. You meant no harm, I’m sure. Please, will you forgive me?
Her head flew up, eyes enormous. “I … forgive you? I should not have been so bold as to touch you.” Turning her face away and closing her eyes, she whispered, “Only, you looked so *fragile*. So … ” the word sighed out of her, “beautiful.”