Morgan slept until her alarm went off too early the next morning. Groaning, she rolled out of bed and stumbled toward the bathroom, intent on a quick shower to wake herself up. The moment the water hit her tail, though, she yelped, leaping back. "Ow! Tail doesn't like water," she grumbled, flicking the wet appendage as if to shake it dry.

Loki, ever attuned to the slightest sound, appeared outside the bathroom door almost instantly. "Are you alright, darling?" he called through the door, concern laced in his voice. He stayed on his side of the door, though. He wouldn't intrude unless she was truly in danger and he didn't get that feeling yet.

Morgan sighed dramatically. "Just discovered my tail hates water," she replied, the complaint muffled by the running water.

Loki chuckled softly, his voice carrying a note of amusement even through the closed door. "Neither does mine," he admitted, as if sharing a personal secret. "Dry it thoroughly when you're done. Damp tails are dreadful,"

Trilling her agreement, Morgan hurried through her shower, eager to escape the ordeal. She toweled off her ears and tail with exaggerated care before stepping into her school uniform. Her hair was still damp when Loki reappeared, this time holding a comb and a look of determination.

"I thought I'd assist with your hair," he offered smoothly. "There's a style I'm sure would suit you perfectly and complement your uniform."

Morgan blinked up at him, surprised. "I don't think I've ever looked cute for school," she admitted sheepishly.

Loki's lips curved into a sly smile. "Leave it to me," he said, gesturing for her to sit down. With deft fingers, he began weaving her hair into an intricate braid that framed her face, his movements precise and practiced. Morgan sat quietly, watching him in the mirror. There was something oddly soothing about the process, and she found herself relaxing under his care.

"Done," Loki announced after a few moments, stepping back to admire his work. Morgan turned her head from side to side, examining the braid. It was undeniably cute, and she found herself smiling despite her initial skepticism.

"Thanks, Lokes," she said softly, her tone sincere, appreciative, friendly.

"It's my pleasure," he replied, bowing slightly. "Now, let's not forget the illusions. Your ears and tail must remain concealed."

With Loki's guidance, Morgan worked on cloaking her more obvious features. She stumbled a few times, frustration mounting, but Loki's patience never wavered. He corrected her form and encouraged her, his tone always gentle but firm.

When she finally managed a passable illusion, he clapped his hands lightly. "Well done! You're improving already. Soon, you'll be able to manage this without my help."

Morgan beamed at the praise, the earlier frustrations melting away. Loki was a great teacher, despite her father's opinion of him. "Thanks, Loki. I couldn't have done it without you."

"Nonsense," he replied. "You have the talent. I'm merely helping you realize it."

As they headed out the door, Loki ensured everything was in order, his protective instincts on full display. Morgan rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the fond smile tugging at her lips. With Loki by her side, school didn't seem quite so daunting anymore.