Free Going Thru Hell by T. J. Loveless

and to be honest, I don't want to. But, for safety reasons, don't kiss me again. You'll have more control than me.” I backed away as my head began to clear.
    “Too damned bad, Braider, I found you.”
    I turned to face the big blond standing behind me. He wrapped brawny arms around my upper body, pulling me into a tight embrace as we disappeared from the hotel room.
    Modi had arrived five days early.
    Nausea and dizziness consumed me , followed by a rather rough landing on top of a laughing Modi. I pushed against his chest to sit up.
    I glanced up, seeing he’d brought me to Valhalla, Odin’s place for warriors. The realm of legend was nestled in a valley, with warm air, high, majestic mountains, bordered by a clear lake. The sky remained a perfect turquoise blue dotted with clouds. The air permanently smelled of spring. A quarter mile away, several log cabins were situated not far from the water, a few built into the mountainsides. Viking warriors were housed within the cabins, waiting for Ragnarok.
    A movement from Modi reminded me of where my butt was currently situated and I met his eyes. I remembered the same heat from nine years ago, the green eyes and blond hair with copper streaks. I closed my eyes, shuddering at the remembered strength of his body, the feel of his skin sliding against mine, the hours and days of pleasure. I hated him while simultaneously loving him for it. The outcome would never be regretted. As a result of the memories, I punched him in the face. He laughed harder.
    “What the hell are you doing?” I jumped off his massive chest, moving away.
    “Why do you ask ridiculous questions? You know the answer.” He stood in a graceful motion, popped his neck and stretched in a move showing off his beautiful, masculine physique. If nothing else, he was pure eye candy.
    “We are not married!”
    I turned to face him, doing my best to control the urge to punch him again.
    “Wrong, Braider, we are. By several belief systems
,
and your own government.”
    “And separated for years because I can't figure out how to divorce an immortal.” I paced, chewing on a thumbnail.
    “You should call on me for any needs you may have. I don’t mind giving you what the power seeks.” He stood in my path, grabbing my arms, his tone sincere. It felt so damned good to be touched by unthreatening male hands, for a change.
    “Leave us alone.” He wouldn't do it. Modi would hound me until I gave in to his advances. Damn. Double damn.
    “The time is almost here. The agreement must be kept.” He gently pulled me into his chest, the hold strong yet gentle.
    “I can break this agreement, you know. You haven't exactly kept your end of the bargain.” I gave in to the pull of heat from his body, stepping toward him, remembering the month when I was nineteen ... I had to leave Valhalla
,
and quickly. If Odin found out I was in his realm, the results would not be pleasant. The thought cooled my ardor and allowed for clear thoughts.
    “Brought her as I requested, son?” Thor's thunderous voice echoed around the valley.
    “Requested?” I looked into Modi's face, seeing his surprise. Thor was playing us.
    “No, I give the promise of my ancestors, I did not bring you here at his request.” Desperation filled Modi's features.
    “Then get me out of here!” I peeked at Thor, thoughts becoming a whirlwind. Calm settled over me and I realized it was Bru's influence. I looked at the valley, knowing Bru could see the view through me thanks to our bond. Anger and fear flashed across the line between us, along with the knowledge she was on the way. I only needed to buy time.
    “I cannot, Father has frozen me.” Modi's voice sounded strained, and despite pushing against him, nothing gave.
    “Brunhilde is on her way. Stall!” I moved in a bid for freedom. My palms grew hot, the strings appearing. We would be harmed in the backlash, and I longed for other option. Besides, despite all Modi stood for, I couldn't harm the