Fool Me Once

The current king and former valkyrie of Asgard was not much of a diplomat, which did not help conversations like these. She cleared her throat. "I'm sorry about your brother."

Thor turned to her, befuddled. "Oh. Thank you... that was a while ago."

"I know. I realized I never really... Said anything."

Thor shrugged. "It's difficult."

"I'm sure it must be."

"I keep thinking he'll return."

"I heard that's a common reaction..."

"No, I mean, he's done it before."

She frowned. "He... what?"

"Twice, actually. So, you know."

She didn't, but she put her hand on his massive shoulder anyway.