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Of all the nicknames Anthony had given him, most prompted exasperation (Reindeer Games, Rudolph, Rock of Ages, Magic Man), a few gained a mixture of discomfort and uncertainty (Blueberry and Snowflake) but were said so affectionately that he couldn’t refuse them.
There were also the more common and acceptable ones (Babe and Lokes) as well as numerous, short-lived nicknames that came and went depending on the moment and what Loki had done to inspire some new reference.
But there was one nickname that, long before he understood the meaning, had always been said to him gently and with Anthony’s soft smile presented to him; Bambi.
It made a part of Loki weaken. It made him just want to pull Anthony into his arms and enjoy the feeling of his lover against him; to hold him close and have a firm reminder that Anthony was his and that their love was mutual and enduring.
It was the one endearment that made him soften and had him willing to do anything to make his lover happy.
If Anthony noticed, he never utilised it, or perhaps he did, but never in a way that Loki would have expected. He never asked Loki for anything when he used that nickname. He only offered something when he did.
He used that nickname if Loki was sad and drained. He stepped close, offering his arms for a hug or just wrapping Loki in a warm embrace. (Oh, Bambi, come here.)
He used it if Loki was in a good mood; if he looked overly happy or triumphant, Anthony would stop what he was doing, smile and want to know what had occurred. (You look cheerful. What’s happened, Bambi?)
He used it if Loki was angry and standoffish. When he wanted to lash out and attack. Anthony would step past his defences as if they didn’t exist, stepping into Loki’s personal space and placing a hand on his crossed arms. (Talk to me, Bambi. What can I do to help?)
The final time, and by far Loki’s favourite, was when they were in bed late at night, wrapped around one another and brushing affectionate kisses and touches over their bodies. They were sated and warm and Anthony would smile at him, stroking Loki’s hair. (Love you, Bambi.)
Whenever Anthony whispered that nickname to him Loki’s heart erupted with warmth and his body relaxed as he pulled his love close to him.
Because Loki knew that every time Anthony whispered that endearment, his lover was promising he would stay.