[ The gasp he gives drags down air in a rush once the cloak disengages and he struggles to rise, eventually staying on one knee with blurry-damp eyes. He offers up a hand as if to lead Stephen back down into his embrace. ]

What are you doing? Are you afraid I would cause you harm? I would never! I swear it.

[ Stephen is so far away, out of reach. It makes Loki's heart rend and writhe in his chest, twisting to find a reason for the betrayal. ]

Am I not to your liking? I can be whatever you want! [ Zelma, he loved her. The moment he shapeshifts is between one blink and the next; long hair cascades down her shoulders and Loki stares up sadly, altered but still wearing the same anguished expression on softer, feminine features. ] Please, I cannot bear to be feared by you.