bucks-and-noble

[bucks-and-noble]

Hi! Can I please request a soft!dark fic with Lloyd Hansen? With a little age gap (she’s in her early twenties) Maybe he took her as at first only as a hostage in order to get someone he’s be hired to “take care of” out of hiding, but after a couple months of her being in his mansion (it’s taking a while for the guy he’s hunting to show up) he has become rather fond of her and has fallen in love with her. So when he finally catches the guy he’s going after, Y/n is expecting that he’ll let her go home now but he reveals that he never had any intention of letting her go and that she wants her to be his. She has never tried to run away, has always listened to whatever said. While she does start crying at the news that Lloyd is indeed not letting her leave, he manages to soothe her, promising that he’ll take care of her and love her and make her forget the way she got there, so she just clings to him taking solace in the warmth and comfort of his arms

Change Of Heart » Lloyd Hansen

Pairings: Soft Dark!Lloyd Hansen x Female Reader

Summary: Lloyd has a change of heart with you shortly after taking you hostage.

Warnings: Soft Dark, Fluff, language, age gap (reader is in her early 20s), held hostage, mentions of murder, crying, kissing, pet names

A/N: Thank you for the request, nonnie🩵

Written on my phone. My apologies for any mistakes.

Header made by @buck-star

GIF IS NOT MINE! Gif credit goes to the creator.

Lloyd walks in the club with his hands in his pockets to look causal. He took a walk around the club before leaning against the wall. He looks at the sea of people who is either dancing or is too drunk to function. That’s when you caught his eye. He watches you for a moment before motioning one of his men over to him.

“Get her when she leaves.” Lloyd says lowly, pointing at you.

“Yes, boss.” He replies.

As it got later, you decided to leave. You were about to open the door to your car when someone grabbed you from behind and put a hand on your mouth to keep you quiet. You kicked and screamed, trying to fight off the person behind you, but it was no use. You felt yourself grow weak when you kept inhaling the chloroform that was on the small white rag in the person’s hand. The person picked you up, throwing you over his shoulder and walked over to Lloyd. Lloyd tilted your head up and moved your hair out from your face, making sure his men got the right person.

“Great job. Take her to my mansion.” Lloyd says.

His men nodded and did as they were told.

You woke up a while later in an unfamiliar room, which appears to be a bedroom. You sat up and looked around the room to gather your surroundings. You were in a state of confusion. You looked down, noticing you weren’t wearing the outfit you wore to the club last night. You were now wearing a sweat outside, which you’ll admit is comfortable. You got out of bed to walk around the bedroom. You walked over to the window, looking out of it. You were trying to figure out where you are, but nothing is coming to your mind. No one you know has a house this expensive.

You jumped when you heard the bedroom door open. You turned around to see a man with a mustache. He closed the door behind him. You stayed frozen in the spot you’re standing in, not daring to move a muscle. You didn’t dare to say a word either.

“Hello there, Y/N.” Lloyd says.

“How do you know my name?” You asked.

“I do thorough research on everyone.” He took a seat in one of the nice chairs one the other side of the bedroom. “Have a seat.” He says, gesturing to the chair across from him.

You hesitantly walked over to the chair and sat down.

“I’m Lloyd Hansen of Hansen Government Services and before you ask, you’re in my mansion.” Lloyd introduces himself. “The reason why you’re here is because someone who you’re acquaintances with and I hired is in hiding.” He says.

“Who?” You asked, furrowing your eyebrows in confusion.

“I think you know.” He says, leaning back in the chair.

You thought about it for a moment, but your mind is drawing a blank. You honestly don’t know who Lloyd is talking about.

“Anyways, I had you brought here as leverage against him to see if he’ll come out of hiding.” He says.

“What did I do?” You asked.

“Absolutely nothing, sunshine.” He replies. “I just want to see how long it takes him to come out of hiding so he can come to me.” He says.

“If whoever you’re talking about comes out of hiding, will you let me go?” You asked.

“Maybe or maybe not.” Lloyd answers.

Lloyd stood up from and walked to the door, putting his hand on the doorknob, but didn’t turn it.

“There’s books and magazines on the book shelf in the corner for you to read and food will be brought to you. There’s a bathroom in here and there’s clothes in the dresser for you.” Lloyd opened the door and then turned around. “One more thing, don’t even think about trying to escape.” He says.

Lloyd closed the door, locking it from the outside. You sighed and leaned your head against the chair. You stood up and walked over to the book shelf. You looked at the variety of books and magazines that are on the shelves. You grabbed a random one to read. You sat down on the bed, leaning your back against the headboard and covered your lap with the blanket. You might as well red the books and magazines since you’re not getting out of Lloyd’s mansion anytime soon.

The first few weeks you’ve been staying in Lloyd’s mansion, you haven’t tried to escape or run away in any way, which surprises Lloyd. He thought you would try to escape from him somehow at least once. He watched you closely just to be sure. He has a security camera hidden somewhere in the bedroom so he has eyes on you at all times. He doesn’t have it in there as a creep would. He just wants to make sure you don’t try anything he doesn’t want you to do.

“Hey there, sunshine.” Lloyd smiles as he walks in the bedroom two glasses and a bottle of scotch. “You want a drink?” He asks as he sat down in the chair.

You nodded and stood up from the bed, walking over to him and sitting down in the chair across from him. You watched as he poured some scotch in the glass and hand it to you. You hesitantly took it from it and looked in the glass.

“I didn’t poison it or anything if that’s what you’re thinking.” He says, taking a sip of his drink.

“It’s not that.” You mumbled. “What is it?” You asked as you continued to stare at the liquid inside of the glass.

“Scotch.” He answers.

“I’ve never tried it before.” You say.

“Try it. You might like it.” He says.

You stared at the scotch for a few more seconds before taking a sip of it. You felt the burn of it slide down your throat, but other than that, it’s pretty good.

“It’s good.” You say.

You stared at the glass and tapped your fingers against it as an awkward silence fills the room.

“Can I ask you something?” You asked after a moment.

“Sure.” Lloyd says, taking a sip of his drink.

“I’ve been here for a while and I was wondering when I could go home.” You say.

Lloyd sighs and puts the glass on the small table next to him.

“You’re not going anywhere, cupcake.” He says.

“Why not?” You asked.

“That acquaintance of yours isn’t here yet, which means you’re staying here until I see fit.” He says.

“Oh.” You mumbled quietly.

You put the glass on the small table and started fiddling with your fingers, avoiding eye contact with Lloyd. Your bottom lip quivered and you felt your eyes tearing up.

“Don’t be like that, sunshine.” He coos, gently tilting your head up so you were making eye contact with him. “If you’re thinking I’m going to hurt you or something, that’s not my intention. All I’m doing is waiting for him to show up. I promise to keep you safe. Ok?” He says softly.

You nodded softly. Lloyd smiles and kisses your forehead.

“Can I at least leave this room and roam around your mansion?” You asked.

Lloyd stared at you for a moment. He knows you’re not going to escape in any way. He’s not sure if he should give you free rein of his mansion. He knows he can trust you, but he wants to keep you in the bedroom a little while longer to build up that trust a bit more.

“I’ll think about it.” He says.

“Ok.” You say quietly.

Another few weeks go by before Lloyd finally gives you free rein of his mansion. He watched you like a hawk just to make sure you didn’t try anything. You roamed his mansion just to see what it looked like. Besides the bedroom he has you set up in, you hangout in the kitchen and the living room most of the time.

Also, you and Lloyd have gotten closer to each other. Lloyd has been developing feelings for you. Whenever your acquaintance gets back to him, he’s not sure if he wants you to let you go or not. He loves you too much to let you leave him. When that acquaintance of yours finally showed up, he decided to break the news to you.

“Hey, sunshine. What’re you up to?” Lloyd asks, walking in the living room.

“Just reading you say.” You say.

“I have something important to tell you.” He says, sitting down on the couch next to you.

“What is it?” You asked, bookmarking the page you’re on in the book you’re reading and put it on the coffee table.

“That acquaintance of yours finally showed up.” He says.

“Did he finish the work you hired him to do?” You asked.

“No, but he got taken care of.” He says.

“Taken care of?” You questioned, furrowing your eyebrows in confusion.

Lloyd let you think about it for a moment. That’s when you realize what he meant by “taken care of”. You gasped loudly.

“Why would you do that?!” You exclaimed.

“I had to, sunshine.” Lloyd says.

Your eyes teared up and a couple tears rolled down your cheeks.

“You could’ve talked to him and let him explain himself.” You say.

“I did, but he didn’t fulfill the job I hired him to do.” He says.

You started stammering with your words. You couldn’t figure out what you wanted to say now. At this point, tears were streaming down your face. Lloyd wrapped his arms around you, pulling you closer to him as you cried.

“Not that I want to leave, does this mean I’m not leaving here?” You asked, looking up at him.

“I’m afraid so, sunshine.” Lloyd says softly.

You whimpered and looked down, avoiding eye contact with him. Lloyd gently tilted your head up so you were looking him in the eye.

“I’m not going to let a thing happen to you. I’m going to do everything I can to protect you.” Lloyd promises.

“Promise?” You asked with a sniffle.

“I promise.” He whispers.

There was a moment of silence between the two of you. Lloyd’s eyes flickered down to your lips, curiously thinking about how soft your lips would be against his. He leaned and pressed his lips against yours, kissing you sweetly. Lloyd expected you to push him away for kissing you, but you didn’t. Your hands grasped his shirt, clutching it tightly in your hands. You melted into his touch. He slowly pulls away, leaving you speechless from the mind blowing kiss he just gave you.

“I love you!” You blurted out.

Your eyes went wide and you quickly covered your mouth with your hand. A smile grew on Lloyd’s face, happy that you’re coming around to the idea of him even more.

“I love you too, sunshine.” Lloyd says softly, kissing you once more.

💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛💛

-Bucky’s Doll

[bucks-and-noble]

Hi there! First, I just want to say I love your blog and your writing! You are seriously so talented! I have a request for Bucky that I would be cute! (I don't think you've written anything similar but if so, I'm sorry for sending in a duplicate).

I saw a writing prompt thing on Pinterest and the prompt was "I can walk." The guy then looks at her and sasy "I thought you were dead. I need to f*ckin hold you."

And I immediately thought of Bucky! I kind of pictured you getting hurt on a mission or something like that and Bucky just being super touchy and wanting to hold you after because he was scared that he had lost you.

I'll let you fill in the rest with your amazing creativity!

Almost Lost You » Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier

Pairings: Thunderbolts!Bucky Barnes x Agent!Female Reader

Summary: You get shot during a mission and all Bucky wants to do is hold you.

Warnings: Fluff, language, coworkers to lovers (is that a thing?), blood, kissing, pet names

A/N: Thank you for the request, nonnie🩵 I immediately thought of Thunderbolts when I seen this🥰

Written on my phone. My apologies for any mistakes.

Header made by @buck-star

GIF IS NOT MINE! Gif credit goes to the creator.

It’s no secret that Bucky has feelings for you. He has had feelings on you for a while. Most of the time you two get partnered up for missions, but sometimes it calls for individual work. Like this one.

Bucky was stopping a truck from hitting someone with his vibranium arm. You were chasing and shooting at the targets you were assigned to do. The rest of the team was doing their parts as well.

You were chasing one of the targets you were assigned to take down. You jumped on him to knock him to the ground, in which he did. He made a groaning noise as he fell to the ground. He grabbed his knife to try to stab you, but you smacked it out of his hand before you could.

“You need some back up, Y/N?” Bucky asks you through his ear piece.

“No, I’m good, Bucky.” You replied.

As soon as you said that, the guy you were trying to take down pulled out a gun. Before you could smack it out of his hand, he shot you in the side. You cried out in pain as he pushed you off of him and ran away. You managed to Army crawl your way off to the side and lean against a wall. You held your hand over where you were shot, feeling blood trickling down your side.

Bucky looked over at where you were supposed to be, but didn’t see you. He walked around to look for you. He found you leaning against a wall with your eyes closed. His eyes widened and his heart dropped to the pit of his stomach. He ran over to you to check on you.

“Please be alive.” Bucky whispers to himself.

He put his fingers against your neck to feel for your pulse. He felt relieved when he felt it.

“What are you doing?” You asked, opening your eyes to see Bucky crouched down in front of you.

“I was just checking on you. You look injured.” Bucky says. “Are you ok?” He asks.

You knew he’d figure out one way or another to see if you’re injured or not. You lifted your shirt, showing him where you got shot. Bucky’s eyes went wide when he seen it. He put his hand over it and applied pressure. You yelped in pain.

“I know it hurts, but you’re going to be ok.” He says softly.

All you could do is nod. You tried to stand up, but the pain got the best of you.

“Let me help you.” Bucky says.

Bucky lifted you to your feet and then went to pick you up, but you stopped him by putting your hand on his chest to stop him.

“I can walk.” You say.

“I thought you were dead. I need to fucking hold you.” He says.

You were in too much pain to argue with him so you just nodded. Bucky picked you up bridal style and went to get you help. Luckily for you, there was an ambulance not too far from where you two were.

“What happened?” Yelena asks when she seen Bucky walk past her with you in his arms.

“Some asshole shot her.” Bucky tells her.

The paramedics saw Bucky carrying you and got a stretcher out of the aid car, rolling it over to you. Bucky gently laid you on it and explained what happened to you to the paramedics. You grabbed Bucky’s arm and looked up at him.

“Please stay with me.” You said in almost a whisper.

“I’m not going anywhere, doll.” Bucky says softly, gently caressing your cheek.

The paramedics took you to the hospital and Bucky stayed with you the whole time, except when he was told to go to the waiting room. Bucky sat in the waiting room with his nerves through the roof. He was bouncing one of his legs, trying to keep his nerves in control. All he wants to do is be with you.

“Bucky.” He hears Yelena’s voice.

Bucky looks up to see Yelena, Alexi, John, and Ava walking towards him.

“How is she?” Ava asks.

“They said the bullet didn’t hit anything major and they took her to surgery just to make sure.” Bucky tells them.

“She’ll be out before you know it.” Alexi says, trying to stay positive.

Bucky smiles softly and nods. That’s when the doctor walked in the waiting room. He practically jumped up from his seat.

“Y/N is out of surgery and she’ll be fine. She needs to take it easy for a while. You can see her now if you want.” The doctor says.

Bucky let out a breath he didn’t even know he was holding. He’s even more relieved to know that you’re fine.

“We’ll be out here if either of you need anything.” Yelena says.

Bucky smiles and went to your hospital room. You were just waking up when he walked in the room. You turned your head towards the door, smiling when you saw him.

“You stayed.” You say.

“I told you I wasn’t going anywhere.” Bucky says with a smile.

Bucky sat down in the chair next to the hospital bed. He gently picked up your hand and kissed it, making you blush.

“You really know how to make a girl blush, James.” You say with a soft giggle.

“That’s part of my charm, doll face.” He says with a smile.

You giggled again, but then winced in pain.

“Be careful, doll. Don’t want you to hurt yourself.” He says.

You smiled at him.

“Did you really think I was dead?” You asked.

“Yes and it scared me. One of my worst fears is losing you.” He says.

“One of your worst fears is losing me?” You asked, making sure you heard him right.

“Yes and it’s only because I’m in love with you.” He admits.

Your eyebrows rose in surprise. You have always knew that Bucky had a crush on you from the way he acts around you, but at the same time, you weren’t sure. His love confession confirmed it for you.

“You’re in love with me?” You asked in almost a whisper.

“I have been since I met you.” Bucky says.

You smiled at him and lifted your hand to caress his cheek, rubbing your thumb against his beard.

“Wanna know something?” You asked.

Bucky nods.

“I’m in love with you too.” You confessed. “That’s why I always played hard to get every time you flirt with me.” You say.

Bucky smiles widely. He leaned over and kissed you passionately. Your hand continued to caress his cheek. He then pulled away and leaned his forehead against yours, looking deep in your eyes.

“Was that kiss your way of asking me to be your doll?” You asked in a whisper.

“Only if you want to be. I don’t want to pressure you in any way.” He says.

“I would love to be your doll.” You say softly.

Bucky smiles and kisses you again. The kiss was short lived when the team walked in the room.

“I didn’t know hospitals provided this kind of treatment.” Yelena jokes, making you and Bucky laugh.

You and Bucky pulled away from each other. You looked at the team and smiled at them.

“How are you feeling?” Ava asks.

“Other than the little bit of pain, I’m fine.” You say.

As the team was visiting you, they noticed how touchy Bucky was being with you. They couldn’t tell if it was from almost losing you or having a crush on you. Maybe it’s a mix of both.

“Are you two a thing now?” John asks.

“Yes.” Bucky answers immediately.

Everyone smiled and congratulated you two on finally making it official. They visited a little bit longer before leaving so you and Bucky can be alone together.

“You’re so beautiful.” Bucky almost whispers.

“Even in a hospital gown?” You asked with a small giggle.

“It adds more to your beauty.” He says with a smile.

You smiled at him and gazed deeply in his eyes.

“I’m never letting you go.” He whispers.

You scooted over in the hospital bed, wanting Bucky to lay down next to you and cuddle you. You winced in pain when you moved.

“Cuddle me.” You murmured.

Bucky smiles and lays down next to you, wrapping his arms around you, being careful to not accidentally bump your wound.

“You’re coming home with me when you get released from here.” Bucky says.

“I would love that.” You whispered, smiling at him.

Bucky pecks your lips softly a few times and looks deep in your eyes.

“I don’t want to experience almost losing you again.” He says softly, his voice cracking.

“You won’t. I promise I’ll be more careful and ask for back up next time.” You promised.

“I love you so much, babydoll.” He whispers, kissing you sweetly and softly.

“I love you too, baby.” You say, smiling up at him.

🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵

-Bucky’s Doll

[bucks-and-noble]

Hi! It’s just me! A woman thinking about these two men…

And how I’d like to be ruined by them in a tattoo shop. Then their place. Or wherever they’d like that ruin to take place!

Oh, they've been thinking a lot about you, too...

Sensible Sorting

Characters/Pairings: Ari Levinson, Curtis Everett, established Ari x reader x Curtis Word Count: 1.5k Summary: Ari has been back in town for a few days, and he's sensed a change with Curtis - a change they've got to talk about, no getting around it. ARI POV

Content/Warnings: polyamorous dynamic discussion; recounting of sexual encounters; some feels

Notes: Some of the pieces of the Obsidian Stain & Sin Series can stand alone - THIS ONE DOES NOT. This is yet another offering for the Valentine Storygrams.

Previous Installment | Series

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Ari stands at the kitchen counter, the late afternoon sunlight streaming through the window and casting a warm glow on the pile of envelopes before him. His fingers deftly sort through the assortment of bills and advertisements that he separates into neat stacks, humming softly to himself. The faint scent of lavender from the potted plant on the windowsill mingles with the lingering aroma of the coffee he brewed earlier.

As he reaches for another piece of mail, Ari hears the familiar sound of keys jingling in the lock. The front door creaks open, followed by Curtis's footsteps echoing softly through the house, but growing louder as he approaches the kitchen.

"Hey," Curtis says, his voice carrying a hint of hesitation that Ari has clocked in the past few days since returning home.

He’s given his roommate enough time to bring up whatever’s needling him on his own, but Ari’s done waiting.

“What’s got you pissed, Everett?” he asks calmly.

He doesn’t want Curtis on defense, he just wants to talk.

Curtis frowns, deep lines furrowing his brow.

“‘m not pissed.”

Ari turns to face Curtis, leaning back against the counter with his arms crossed. He raises an eyebrow, his expression a mix of concern and skepticism.

"Come on, man. I know you better than that. Whatever it is has been eating at you since I got back. Let's hear it."

Curtis sighs heavily, running a hand over his buzzed head. He moves to the fridge, pulling out a beer and popping the cap off before taking a long swig. The silence stretches between them, thick with unspoken tension.

Finally, Curtis speaks, his voice low. "Something happened while you were gone. With her, I mean."

When he finally meets Ari's gaze, there's a vulnerability in his eyes that makes Ari eager to know everything immediately, but he knows that’s not how his friend works.

Ari holds his breath for a moment, a mix of curiosity and apprehension swirling in his gut. He has his suspicions, but he needs Curtis to say it. So he keeps his voice steady as he asks, "What kind of something?"

Curtis takes another long pull from his beer, his eyes darting away. "I know we said no labels, no obligations, just the three of us having sex and enjoying whatever happened..." He swallows hard. "But I don’t think I can do that anymore."

“What are you saying?” Ari presses.

Curtis meets his gaze again, a mix of guilt and defiance in his eyes. "I don’t know yet."

“You don’t?” Ari asks flatly.

“What? You do?”

Ari sees his hackles go up, and he tries not to laugh.

“Yeah. You’re in love with her.”

Curtis's eyes widen, and he nearly chokes on his beer. "I... what? No, that's not... I mean..."

Ari can't help but chuckle at his friend's flustered reaction. "Come on, Curtis. It's written all over your face. You've been acting weird ever since I got back, and now you're telling me something happened with her? It doesn't take a genius to figure it out."

Curtis slumps against the kitchen counter, his shoulders sagging. "Fuck," he mutters, rubbing a hand over his face. "Is it that obvious?"

"Only to someone who knows you as well as I do," Ari reassures him. "I was pretty sure that’s where you were headed after the first few weeks.”

Curtis stares at Ari, a mix of surprise and relief washing over his face. "You knew? And you're okay with it?"

Ari shrugs, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Why wouldn't I be? We all agreed to this arrangement. Feelings were bound to develop at some point."

Curtis takes another swig of his beer, his brow furrowed in thought. He sighs. "I didn't want to mess things up. For any of us. Still don’t."

Ari moves closer, placing a hand on Curtis's shoulder. "You haven't messed anything up. But we should talk about it. All three of us."

Curtis nods.

“Tell me what happened.”

Curtis takes a deep breath, his eyes focused on the condensation beading on his beer bottle. "It was just a normal Saturday night, you know? You were out of town, and she came over, but we’ve both had time alone with her. We ordered takeout, watched some stupid movie on Netflix. Nothing out of the ordinary."

He pauses, taking another swig of beer before continuing. "We ended up in bed, like we usually do. The sex was intense. More than usual. I don't know why, but it felt different somehow."

Ari nods, encouraging him to go on.

"Afterward, we fell asleep. I woke up in the middle of the night, had to piss, went back to bd, and there she was, all peaceful and tempting. I couldn't help myself. I started touching her. Just lightly tracing patterns on her skin, feeling her fucking soft curves. Then played with that greedy pussy."

Ari nodded, encouraging him to continue, a wolfish smirk on his own face thinking of your voluptuous body. They both loved to torment and pleasure you while you were asleep.

Curtis's voice drops lower, his eyes distant as he recalls the moment. "And then she fucking sighed your name in her sleep, and... God, Ari, it was like something snapped inside me. This surge just washed over me, and I couldn't fucking breathe for a second."

He takes another long pull from his beer, his knuckles white around the bottle. "It wasn't anger, not at you specifically. But hearing her say your name, it made me realize how much I wanted to be the one she was dreaming about. How much I wanted to be more than just a casual thing for her."

Curtis starts pacing the kitchen, his movements agitated. "It was like a dam broke inside me. All these feelings I'd been trying to ignore came rushing out. I wanted to wake her up, to make her see me, really see me. Not just as a friend, not just as a casual hookup, but as someone who could be everything to her."

Curtis's gaze flickered to Ari, then away again. "So of course I fucked her brains out, because what else would I do? And then I spent the rest of the night just thinking about how badly I wanted to wake up to the sight of her every morning. How I wanted to make her breakfast, to hold her hand, all the picket fence shit.”

Curtis pauses, then adds, “Been thinking about it ever since, but also been thinking about…” he waves his beer bottle, gesturing between them.

Ari nods.

"So,” Curtis’ tone changes slightly. “What about you? Do you... have feelings for her too?"

“No.” Ari leans back against the counter. He's quiet for a moment, his eyes distant as he considers his answer. He’s had months to think about this. "I think this started out as fun and games with friends for all of us, and all of our relationships have changed, but not in the same way. I care about her, deeply," he says finally. "But it's not the same as what you're feeling."

Curtis arches one brow, a silent query for further explanation.

Ari shrugs. “There’s love, but it’s not romantic. I feel protective, trust, affection, but… I don’t know. I can’t explain why it’s not more, it just isn’t that way.”

Curtis grunts.

“Lucky for you,” Ari adds with a wink.

Curtis nicks his bottle cap from the counter and throws it at Ari, thumping his shoulder, but he laughs.

“So what do we do now?"

Ari runs a hand through his hair, exhaling slowly. "We talk to her. We lay everything out on the table and see where we all stand."

"And if she doesn't feel the same way?" Curtis asks, his voice barely above a whisper.

Ari gives him a sympathetic look. "Then we deal with that together. But Curtis, I've seen the way she looks at you. I don't think you have anything to worry about."

Curtis cocks his head. “You’re telling me you knew I loved her, that you ‘see the way she looks at me,’ and you’re still in bed with us? How long were you planning on that?”

Ari shrugs again. “I had to long game you into our best friendship, and you still haven’t admitted that’s what we are. But I’m patient as fuck and confident enough I don’t need your reassurances. I was willing to stick it out until you both figured out you both got to the ‘L’ word.”

Curtis rolls his eyes. “Wow, you’re a bastard.”

“Yep, your bastard of a best friend,” Ari agrees as he swipes the bottle from Curtis and takes a swig of his beer. “And we can all talk about it, but if she’s good and you’re good, I don’t see why we wouldn’t continue sharing her pretty holes. We do it so well.”

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[bucks-and-noble]

Hello sweet Aspen!

Just saw your reblog of the match alpha trope post, and I was wondering - and desperately hoping - that we might get to see more with Alpha Steve who accidentally triggered your heat? 🥺 Doesn’t have to be the same premise, I I just miss him and would love to hear more ❤️

Maybe their first real date? Maybe the coffee shop they always go to when they’ve been dating for a while? Maybe something both soft and smutty and delicious? Just like the first one 😌❤️

This isn't quite what you were describing, but... I think hopefully you'll still like this little glimpse of them again!

Not What I Planned At All

Characters/Pairings: Alpha!Avenger!Steve x curvy female!Agent Omega!Reader Word Count: 950

Content/Warnings: omegaverse dynamics; nudity

Notes: Sequel to Not Meant to Be Like This from my little blitz of Alpha April drabbles last spring. Part of my Valentine Storygrams.

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Five days later, the smell of tomatoes and basil and garlic pulls you from sleep, and your stomach growls happily. There’s also a lingering smell of alpha on you, in your room, in your nest.

If only said alpha were still here.

But you’ll think about that later. You don’t have enough brain capacity to devote to it right now. Coming out of heat, it’s always baseline needs first. Hunger. That’s what you need to address first.

Blessings and curses to whichever neighbor in your building was cooking Italian food because now you at least know what you want to eat. Usually when you came out of your heat, you were too voraciously hungry to figure out what to eat so you ate whatever you could scavenge - it’s why you usually stock your fridge and freezer with food before your heat, but you’d not properly prepared for this heat since you thought you’d be able to do that one quick mission and get home before your heat, only to have it triggered by being so close to Alpha Steve Rogers during said mission.

The alpha who'd gotten you through your heat, at least, even if he'd left after you were finally sated.

As you pad to the kitchen, you think - you hope - you do still have the pasta and pasta sauce in your pantry that you think are there.

And then you chirp in surprise, eyes widening as you take in the sight before you. Steve Rogers is standing in your kitchen wearing nothing but a pair of sweatpants and an apron. He's stirring a pot on the stove, the muscles in his back rippling with each movement. Next to it, a pan of rich, red tomato sauce simmers gently, filling the air with the mouthwatering aroma that woke you. The oven light is on, and you can see a tray of garlic bread warming inside.

Steve turns at your chirp of surprise, his blue eyes lighting up as they land on you. It's only then that you realize you're completely naked, your heat-addled brain having forgotten to put on clothes before leaving your bedroom. With a squeak of embarrassment, you dive for the soft blanket draped over the back of your couch, wrapping it around yourself like a cocoon.

A warm, tender laugh fills the kitchen as Steve watches your flustered attempt at modesty. "Good afternoon, Omega," he says, his voice amused but with no trace of meanness. "You know, after the past five days, I think we're well past the point of modesty, don't you think?"

You neck and face flush with heat, but you still clutch the blanket tighter around yourself. "I - I didn't expect you to still be here," you stammer, trying to gather your thoughts.

Steve frowns. "Where else would I be? I told you I wanted all your heats, remember?"

The memory of his words, whispered urgently in that cramped supply closet, floods back to you. Your knees go weak, and you have to lean against the doorframe for support.

"I thought maybe that was just the heat talking," you admit quietly.

Steve turns off the stove and crosses the kitchen in three long strides. He cups your face in his hands, his touch gentle but firm. "It wasn't just the heat, Omega. I meant every word."

Your breath catches in your throat as you gaze up at Steve, his intense blue eyes boring into yours. The blanket slips from your grasp, pooling at your feet, but you barely notice. All you can focus on is the warmth of his hands on your face and the sincerity in his expression.

"I've wanted you for a long time," Steve confesses, his voice low and husky. "That mission... being in such close quarters with you... it just brought everything to the surface. I couldn't hold back anymore."

You swallow hard, your mind reeling. "But... why didn't you say anything before?"

Steve's thumbs caress your cheeks gently. "I wanted to do things right. Court you properly, like I said before. But then your heat hit, and all my plans went out the window." He chuckles softly. "Not that I'm complaining about how things turned out."

You can't help but smile, warmth blooming in your chest. "I'm not complaining either," you admit softly.

Steve's eyes darken with desire, and he leans in, his lips brushing against yours. "Good," he murmurs, before capturing your mouth in a deep, passionate kiss.

You melt into him, your arms wrapping around his neck as he pulls you flush against his body. The kiss is different from the frenzied, heat-driven ones you shared over the past few days. This one is slow, tender, full of promise.

When you finally break apart, both breathless, Steve rests his forehead against yours. "I meant what I said about wanting all your heats," he says softly. "But I want more than that. I want all of you, Omega. Every day, not just during your heats."

Your heart soars at his words, a warmth spreading through your chest that has nothing to do with your recent heat. "I want that too, Alpha," you whisper, your voice thick with emotion.

Steve's answering smile is radiant, lighting up his entire face. He leans in to kiss you again, but just as his lips are about to meet yours, your stomach lets out a loud, insistent growl.

You both freeze for a moment, then burst into laughter. Steve pulls back, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I think that's our cue to eat," he says, chuckling. "Come on, let's get some food in you."

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[bucks-and-noble]

Don't Be a Tease

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x female reader

Word Count: 1.7K

Summary: You and Bucky are texting back and forth while he's on a mission and you decide to tease him a little...

Author's Note: The new Thunderbolts trailer has me so excited to see Bucky! I can't wait! And this idea is nothing new but I love getting him riled up! Thank you all so much for reading! Much love always! ❤️❤️❤️Divider by the lovely @firefly-graphics thank you Daisy! PS Italics are text messages :)

Warnings: fun flirty tension and mostly smut, fingering, oral (f rec), edging, orgasm denial, choking, p in v (wrap it up kids), Bucky is soft in between it all

‘It’s really unfair that you’re walking around like that and I’m not with you…how many women have approached you so far?’

You stare at your phone screen, watching the three dots until his text pops up.

‘The only woman paying any attention to me right now is Yelena and it’s only because she has to. Ha.’

‘Nice try. You look hot. I want to come to the party…’

‘Don’t you dare leave the apartment doll face. You know it’s not safe and besides, I can’t concentrate with you around…you’re very distracting.’

‘HEY!’

'❤️😘I love you.'

‘Love you too. Be careful and come home soon.’

‘Always doll. I can’t wait. Miss you.’

‘Miss you more.’

~picture~

Bucky stares at his phone, his thumb hovering over the screen as the muscles in his jaw tighten and shift. He let’s out a low growl, startling an older woman that happens to be walking by.

His hand grips the phone tighter and he licks his lips with a strained exhale.

“Barnes. We must go. It’s time,” Yelena says, surprising him.

He makes a slight jump and her lips curve into a knowing smirk.

“What?” he grunts.

“Nothing,” she responds her smile widening. “Let us get this over with so you can get home to your girl. Da?”

He nods and glances at his phone one more time before he slips it into his pocket.

You don’t bother waiting for an answer after sending the picture and place your phone down on the bed to reach for your book. It’s hard to concentrate when all you can think about is him, but you do your best, letting the words on the page whisk you away for now.

By the time Bucky arrives back home you’re half asleep, your eyes heavy and the words on the page blurring together.

He barely makes any sound as he unlocks the door, his footsteps the only indication he’s headed toward the bedroom.

The light from the hallway filters into the room but his broad frame blocks most of it, hiding him in shadow.

“Bucky,” you whisper and sit up, now fully awake.

He moves toward you with purposeful steps and stands at the edge of the bed, his eyes raking over every inch of you.

“Doll,” he murmurs, remaining motionless, taking in every hint of lace, every tiny bow, and every curve of your body.

You sit up and kneel on the bed in front of him, sliding your hands up and down his chest. His fingers twitch at his sides and you lean closer, brushing the hair from his face.

He grabs your hips and drags you into him, the hardness in his pants digging into your stomach. You let out a surprised gasp that turns into a moan he swallows with his kiss.

When he breaks away from your lips, it’s only so he can whisper in your ear. “Do you like teasing me doll?”

You nod with a shiver, clutching onto his shoulders.

“I..” You struggle to get the words out as his lips trail down your neck.

His long finger hooks under the strap of your lingerie and he traces the calloused pad along the curve of your shoulder.

“Mm,” he hums, sliding his hand down your stomach and between your thighs, pressing the thin fabric of your panties against your wetness. “So wet for me and I’ve barely touched you.”

Your hips jerk into his hand and he circles your clit with a featherlight touch.

“I’m gonna return the favor doll.”

“Bucky,” you whine, barely registering his threat.

His mouth curves up as his gaze darkens, satisfaction mingling with the heat of desire. You tug futilely on his bow tie, desperate for more of his skin but he stops you with a firm hand to your wrist.

“Keep your hands to yourself for now.”

Your mouth falls open with a defiant protest, but he interrupts you. “Or I’ll bind you and stuff my cock in your mouth to keep you quiet.”

A small gasp is all that escapes your parted lips before he covers them with his, carefully and deliberately unhooking your bra and pulling it off your body. Your stiff nipples brush against the soft material of his tux, building the tension about to snap in your body.

His finger continues to tease between your legs before he drags your panties down to your knees. They stop there, the bed preventing him from pulling them off any more so instead he gives them a sharp tug and rips the fabric from your legs.

“You could have just…”

His kiss silences you again and he bites your lower lip, tugging it between his teeth before soothing it with his tongue.

At the same time, his finger slides inside you, slowly pumping in and out before he adds another. You wrap your arms around his neck, clinging to him as he pushes you down onto the bed and settles between your legs.

Like a man starved, his tongue moves against you, his fingers still buried deep, and a cry of his name tears from your throat.

Your legs try to close reflexively, but his grip keeps them wide open. He isn’t slow and easy and when you look down at him, still fully dressed, head buried between your thighs, you feel your release build.

His tongue finds your clit and you urge him on with a gasped, “more.”

“Who said you could make any demands doll face?” he murmurs into your skin.

“But…”

He dips his head again and you lose all train of thought, legs shaking, pressure building. You rock your hips toward his face and feel his smile. You’re so close, your stomach clenching and he pulls away.

“No! Bucky please! Let me come!”

“Doll,” he warns. “You’ll come when I tell you to.”

He slides up your body, his lips and chin wet with your arousal, brushing them across your mouth and letting you taste yourself. You kiss him back, raking your fingers through his hair and then down his back.

His fingers are back between your legs, two sliding inside you as he swallows your moans with this mouth. You buck into his hand and when he presses his thumb against your clit you pull away from his lips and arch your back.

“Bucky!” you cry out.

He pushes a third finger inside you and your legs tremble at the pleasure and sensation of being stretched. You can’t catch your breath, his thumb still working over your clit as his fingers fuck you.

Your body locks up and you clutch at anything you can, his back, the sheets, his ass and then his fingers are gone.

“No,” you beg with a whimper.

“I told you…I’m going to tease you back.”

“This isn’t teasing…it’s torture!”

His touch is gentle as he traces the line of your jaw, passing his fingertips over your swollen lips before kissing them.

“Should I stop then? I can go get changed and we can go to bed if you like.”

“Bucky…” you groan with impatience.

“That’s what I thought doll face.”

Your breath comes out unevenly as you watch him sit up, take off his jacket, and undo his pants. His cock springs free against his abs and he wraps his fist around it, pumping slowly as he lowers himself over you.

He teases your entrance, sliding himself through your wetness and bumping your clit with every roll of his hips. You squirm beneath him, trying to line yourself up so he can get inside you.

“So needy,” he whispers into your neck.

With an incoherent whine you wrap your legs around him, and he finally starts to push inside you. You struggle to breathe through the stretch but he pushes in more, making you take him deeper, and your eyes flutter closed.

“Open your eyes. Look at me doll.”

You obey and snap them open, his hips thrusting to bury the last of him deep inside you.

“You feel incredible. I can’t get enough,” he murmurs.

He keeps his pace steady, each languid movement setting your nerves ablaze with an unhurried and unrelenting build up.

His eyes focus on your face, and he smooths his metal hand up to your throat, circling it with little pressure. You clench around him with anticipation, and he groans, his grip tightening.

Everything fades around you as he squeezes harder, restricting your air flow. All your other senses dull, leaving you with just the heady sensation of his hand around your throat and the rapture of him driving into you.

Your mouth opens to get air, only letting the barest amounts in as your heart hammers against your chest. His blue eyes are fixed on yours, entranced with your every reaction. His thumb caresses your neck, the gesture so tender it makes your whole-body shiver.

He releases you just as his warm breath fans your skin and he shifts to kiss the spots on your neck where his fingers left a light print. You suck in a large gasp of air, your back arching.

He swears, his hips now snapping forward in rough, uncontrolled thrusts. His metal hand moves between your legs, working over the spot you need him most.

“Come for me doll.”

 That’s all it takes for you to let go, spiraling into bliss, your entire body shaking beneath him with the force of your orgasm.

He doesn’t stop driving into you, his lips parted with his heavy breathing and needy moans rumbling out.

“Fuck doll,” he grunts, and you feel him pulse and spill inside you.

He drops forward, his hands on either side of your head as he kisses you softly.

“Should I make you come again?” he breathes, hips still rocking slowly.

You sigh out his name, wrapping your arms around his neck and sinking into the mattress. After a moment, he shifts his weight, pulling out of you to lie down and curl you into his chest. Your head falls to the crook of his neck and silence settles as he skates his fingertips along the curve of your spine.

“Are you okay?” he asks, softly pressing his lips to your forehead.

“Mm hm,” you mumble out and nuzzle closer.

“Maybe you’ll think twice about teasing me when I’m on a mission.”

Your lips meet his neck. “I can’t wait to do it again.”

[bucks-and-noble]

Huffily Ever After: A CindereLloyd Story [6/8]

Chapter Six - An Afternoon Adrift

Characters/Pairings: Lloyd Hansen x curvy Millennial Female!Reader Word Count: 6.5k Summary: You're fired, and it's not a joke.

SERIES Content/Warnings: modern Cinderella adaptation, unknown identities, enemies to lovers, toxic coworkers, eventual smut

Notes: Tenth story for the Valentine Storygrams.

Previous Chapter | Series

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"What's going on?" you asked, your voice sounding small and uncertain even to your own ears, and you hated that. "Isn't it obvious?" Amilla said, her voice as cold and sharp as an icicle. "You're fired."

The words hit you like a physical blow, knocking the air from your lungs.

"What?" you gasped, your mind reeling. "Why?"

Amilla's gaze was unflinching, her posture rigid. "We lost Zhongxin to Hansen Global this morning," she started. “Holly and Anya told me you’ve been spending every minute you can with people from Hansen Global since you got here, so since you’re clearly jumping ship, I’m cutting you out first so you don’t get the satisfaction.”

Your mind reeled, struggling to process Amilla's words. The accusation was so absurd, so far from reality, that for a moment you were speechless. The bustling lobby seemed to fade away, leaving you in a bubble of disbelief with only Amilla's cold stare penetrating the haze.

"That's... that's ridiculous," you finally managed. You cleared your throat, forcing strength into your words. "I haven't been 'spending every minute' with any one person or group. I've been attending sessions, networking with potential clients and collaborators to consult with, just like we planned."

Amilla's eyebrow arched skeptically. "Really? Because that's not what the team says. They've seen you with Claude Dumont and Lloyd Hansen multiple times and word spread that you were at the Hansen Global table at the awards gala last night cozying right up to Robert Hansen himself."

Your mind raced, trying to make sense of Amilla's accusations. "I spoke with Claude and Lloyd at a few networking events, yes. And I was invited to the Hansen table for part of the gala, but that was just—"

Amilla cut you off with a sharp wave of her hand. "Save it. The evidence is clear. Even now your boyfriend’s inserting himself after lurking in wait for you.”

You turn and look over your shoulder, angry to see Lloyd just a few steps away.

“I’m not her boyfriend,” he says, voice low and clipped.

“Stay out of this,” you hiss.

He’s not your boyfriend, nor do you want him to be, but his instant rebuttal still stung your pride in the moment.

Amilla’s laugh is devoid of any actual mirth. “You've been consorting with our biggest competitor, and now we've lost our most important international client to them. The timing is too convenient to be coincidence."

Anger rages within you, cutting through the shock. "This is ridiculous! I've poured my heart and soul into Nexus, into the Zhongxin account. I would never betray the company like that!"

"Actions speak louder than words," Amilla replied coldly. "And your actions have spoken volumes. Since it’s a firing with cause, you’re termination is effective immediately, and no severance package will be offered. Now, if you’ll excuse me,” her last words were dripping with falsely overdone politeness, “we’re done here, and I’m done with you forever.”

With that, Amilla turned on her heel and strutted away and back into the restaurant.

You stood rooted to the spot, your mind reeling as you tried to process what had just happened. The bustling hotel lobby blurred and turned to white noise, leaving you in a daze of shock and disbelief. Your career, your reputation, everything you had worked so hard for - it all felt like it was crumbling around you.

"Hey," Lloyd's voice cut through the fog of your thoughts. You'd almost forgotten he was there. "Are you okay?"

You turned to face him, anger flaring hot and bright. "Am I okay? No, I'm not okay! I just lost my job because of you and your company!"

Lloyd's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenching. "Because of me? I had nothing to do with it!"

"Really?" you scoffed. "Your company poaches our biggest international client, then I'm accused of consorting with the enemy and fired on the spot. Seems pretty connected to me."

Lloyd took a step closer, his voice low and intense. "I had no idea Zhongxin was your client when the deal was made. And I certainly didn't orchestrate your firing."

You wanted to believe him, but doubt and anger still churned within you. "Then why were you following me just now?"

"I wasn't following you," Lloyd said, exasperation creeping into his tone. "This is a public lobby. I was on my way to meet someone when, yes, I did slow down out of curiosity and overheard the conversation. I couldn't just walk away when I heard what was happening."

He couldn't walk away when he heard what was happening? You searched his face, skeptical, before throwing out a, “Fine,” and turning away.

“Fine?” he scoffed. “You’re still pissed at me?” he followed you as you headed for the elevators.

You spun around to face Lloyd, anger flashing in your eyes. "My career just imploded in front of me, so, yeah, I’m angry, I’m hurt, but don’t flatter yourself into thinking that every one of my thoughts are centered around you, Lloyd Hansen.”

You spun and walked as swiftly as you could without running, weaving through the clusters of tourists and conference attendees in the lobby. The opulent surroundings that had once filled you with awe now seemed to mock you, a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes could change. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, their light catching on the gilded mirrors lining the walls, reflecting your harried expression back at you from every angle.

As you approached the bank of elevators, you could hear Lloyd's footsteps behind you, his longer stride allowing him to follow you easily. You jabbed the elevator button repeatedly, willing it to arrive faster, desperate to retreat to the privacy of your room.

"Wait," Lloyd tried. "Just hear me out."

The elevator dinged, its doors sliding open. You stepped inside, turning to face Lloyd as you pressed the button for your floor. "I don't want to hear anything you have to say right now," you said, your voice trembling slightly despite your efforts to keep it steady.

Lloyd's hand shot out, holding the elevator door open. His blue eyes bored into yours, intense and unyielding. "Five minutes. That's all I'm asking for."

You hesitated, torn between your need to be alone and the nagging feeling that there was more to this situation than you understood. The elevator chimed impatiently, urging you to make a decision.

"I don't think there's anything left to say."

Lloyd's expression hardened, a muscle twitching in his jaw. As the doors began to close again, he delayed them once more. "You're making assumptions based on incomplete information."

You crossed your arms and pinned him with a venomous stare, “You can’t reverse what just happened, so I don’t think there’s any information you could share that would really help the situation at all, okay?”

Lloyd's jaw clenched, his piercing blue eyes boring into yours with an intensity that made you want to look away. But you held his gaze, refusing to back down.

"Fine," he conceded, his voice low and controlled. "If that's what you want."

He stepped back, allowing the elevator doors to close. As they slid shut, you caught one last glimpse of his face - a mixture of frustration and something else you couldn't quite identify. Regret? Concern?

The moment the doors closed fully, you sagged against the elevator wall, the enormity of what had just transpired was about to crash over you in waves, you could feel it. Your career, your reputation, your future - all of it had been upended in a matter of minutes. Tears pricked at your eyes, but you blinked them back furiously. You wouldn't cry, not here, not now.

The elevator ascended swiftly, and you knew you only had to keep it together for a few more minutes.

As soon as you entered your hotel room, the facade crumbled. You collapsed onto the bed, body shaking with sobs you could no longer contain. The injustice of it all overwhelmed you - the baseless accusations, the loss of the job you'd poured yourself into, and no chance to even defend yourself.

Your mind raced through the events of the past few days, searching for any sign, any clue that could have warned you of the impending disaster. But there was nothing. Just yesterday, you'd been riding high on the success of your panel discussion, feeling like you were finally carving out a place for an exciting future in the industry.

Victor trying to force himself had shaken you and been humiliating, but you had been able to work through enough of that with Maggie to know that it would just be a dark spot but not ruin everything. It had been a private struggle, and you could even guess that it wasn’t probably even that much to do with you, you just happened to be the one he’d fixed on this week.

But this?

It was personal.

You had known Amilla tolerated you because she had to and you delivered results. But she’d found a reason to finally shove you out. And now? Now you were unemployed, accused of betraying the very company you'd given your all to in the first chapters of your journey, and stranded at a conference where you no longer belonged. The weight of it all pressed down on you, making it hard to breathe.

As the initial shock began to subside, a new emotion started to take hold: anger. Anger at Amilla for jumping to conclusions without giving you a chance to explain. Anger at Holly and Anya for apparently spreading rumors about you. Anger at Lloyd and Hansen Global for their role in this mess, even if you weren't entirely sure what that role was.

And beneath it all, a simmering anger at yourself. Should you have seen this coming? Had you been naive in thinking your hard work and dedication would be enough to secure your place at Nexus?

Your phone buzzed incessantly on the nightstand, likely filled with messages from confused colleagues and friends who had heard snippets of gossip. But you couldn't bring yourself to look at it, not yet. The thought of facing their questions, their pity, or worse, their judgment, was too much. So you turned your phone to do not disturb for the next hour before putting it back on the nightstand.

You lay on the bed, staring blankly at the ceiling as your mind raced. The plush comforter was your only respite in this moment, and yet even that made you acutely aware that you no longer belonged here, in this posh hotel room paid for by a company that had just unceremoniously fired you.

When your phone buzzed again an hour later, it pulled you from a nap you didn’t know you’d sunken into. Your mind hadn’t quieted, but evidently being still, in the cozy bed, the emotional exhaustion had swallowed you up - racing mind and all. With a heavy sigh, you reached for your phone, bracing yourself for whatever fresh hell awaited you.

The screen was filled with notifications for missed calls, text messages, and slack alerts. Your thumb hovered over the screen, hesitating. Did you really want to deal with this right now?

Before you could decide, a soft knock at the door startled you out of your daze. For a moment, you considered ignoring it, not wanting to face anyone. But then a familiar voice called out.

"It's Gus. Please open up."

With a heavy sigh, you pushed yourself off the bed and made your way to the door. When you opened it, Gus stood there, his face etched with concern. Without a word, he stepped forward and pulled you into a tight hug.

"I don’t even know what to say," he said softly. "I'm so sorry."

You melted into his embrace, fresh tears streaming down your face, but at least you were past sobbing - for the moment.

"How did you find out?" you asked, your voice muffled against Gus's shoulder.

Gus pulled back slightly, his hands resting on your shoulders. "Word spreads fast at these things. I overheard some people gossiping about it in the hallway. I couldn't believe it, and I tried to text you but you didn’t answer, so I came straight here."

You stepped back, allowing Gus to enter the room. As you closed the door, you felt a wave of gratitude wash over you. At least you weren't completely alone in this mess.

"I know it happened, but I still can't believe it," you admitted, sinking onto the edge of the bed. "One minute I'm preparing for what I assumed would be a red alert meeting, and the next..."

Gus sat beside you, his brow furrowed. "What exactly did happen? The rumor mill is going wild, but I want to hear it from you."

You close your eyes and pinch the bridge of your nose. Amilla had set you up for a spectacle in your firing. That was abundantly clear now.

You took a deep breath, steeling yourself to recount the painful scene. "Amilla, Anya, and Holly were already there - she told me to meet them at noon, but they’d already been seated and had ordered even though I was a few minutes early. She ushered me out into the lobby, accused me of conspiring with Hansen Global, said we lost the Zhongxin account to them because of me. She fired me on the spot, effective immediately, and said it was so I couldn’t quit on Nexus after what I’d done."

Gus's eyes widened in disbelief. "That's insane! You've been nothing but loyal to Nexus. How could she think you'd betray the company like that?"

You shook your head, frustration bubbling up again. "Apparently, Holly and Anya have been spreading rumors about me spending time with people from Hansen Global. And then Lloyd showed up right as Amilla was firing me, which only made things worse."

"Lloyd? As in Lloyd Hansen?" Gus asked, his tone sharpening slightly.

You nodded, rubbing the back of your neck. "Yeah, he just appeared out of nowhere. He said it was just terrible timing, but it definitely didn't help my case."

Gus's eyes narrowed. "What did he want?"

"He tried to talk to me afterwards, said he wanted to explain something," you replied, shaking your head. "But I was too upset to listen. I just wanted to get away from everyone."

Gus was quiet for a moment, his brow furrowed in thought. "Do you think... is there any chance he actually knows something about what happened?"

You paused, considering. In your anger and shock, you hadn't given Lloyd any chance to speak. "I don't know. Maybe? But even if he does, how could it possibly change anything? I've still been fired.”

"And what exactly is your relationship with Lloyd Hansen?"

You felt a flash of irritation at the implication in Gus's tone. "There is no relationship," you countered firmly. "We've interacted at a few events, that's all. He invited me to dance at the afterparty of the gala last night, but it was purely professional, and then he helped me out in that Victor altercation as any decent person would have."

Gus looked skeptical. "Are you sure about that? He seems pretty interested in you."

You stood up abruptly, and began pacing the room. "Even if he is - which I'm not at all convinced of - it doesn't matter," you said, your voice rising with frustration. "What matters is that I've lost my job and I have no idea what I'm going to do next."

Gus held up his hands in a placating gesture. "You're right, I'm sorry. I shouldn't be pushing you about this right now. What can I do to help?"

You stopped pacing and took a deep breath, trying to calm yourself. "I don't know, Gus. I feel like I'm drowning here."

"Okay, let's take this one step at a time," Gus said, his tone gentle but firm. "First things first, do you want to stay for the rest of the conference?"

You hadn't even considered that. The thought of facing everyone after what had happened made your gut churn. “No, but I don’t have the money to just jump on a plane back home. God, am I even still allowed to stay in this room? Nexus was paying for everything for our travel!”

Gus's expression softened. "Don't worry about that right now. We'll figure it out. If you need to, you can crash in my room until we sort things out."

You felt a wave of gratitude wash over you. "Thanks, Gus. I don't know what I'd do without you right now."

He gave you a small smile. "That's what friends are for.”

You nodded, grateful for Gus's steady presence. As you both sat in silence for a moment, your phone buzzed again, startling you back to its presence.

"You should probably check that," Gus said gently, “but do you want to yet?”

You grimaced at him before your eyes flicked back to the phone.

“Okay, no,” Gus said, “there might be something important, but I’m making the executive decision that it can all wait for at least one more hour. We’re going out for a walk. Fresh air and the city streets will be good for your soul, and then you can with all of this,” he snatched your phone from the nightstand, shaking it around before pocketing it in his pocket.

You frowned, but nodded. You felt like you should be ready, but you weren’t ready. “Okay. But one hour. Then I should at least skim things.”

“Totally agree to that. Now go splash some water on your face, grab a jacket, and then we’re going. I downloaded six audio-guided walking tours of the city and have only done one of them!”

You managed a weak smile at Gus's enthusiasm. "Alright, alright. Give me a minute."

In the bathroom, you did as instructed and splashed cold water on your face, trying to erase the evidence of your tears. The person staring back at you in the mirror looked pale and shell-shocked, but at least your eyes were no longer red and puffy. You took a deep breath, steeling yourself for the outside world.

You and Gus were able to head down to the ground floor and make your way out out of the hotel without bumping into anyone, and the bustling city street hit you with a wave of noise and energy. It was jarring after the quiet cocoon of your room, but also oddly comforting. The world was still turning, life was going on all around you, oblivious to your personal crisis.

Gus handed you an earbud and pulled out his phone. He tapped the screen a few times as you inserted the proffered but and then a chipper voice began narrating directly into your ear.

"Welcome to the Hidden Gems of Paris-Montparnasse according to an ex-pat Walking Tour! I'll be exploring some of the lesser-known historical sites and architectural wonders of this vibrant city. Let's begin our journey at the Saint-Jacques Metro station…"

As you and Gus followed the audio guide's instructions, weaving through the bustling streets, you felt some of the tension in your body start to ease with the movement. The narrator's enthusiastic descriptions of century-old buildings and quirky local legends provided a welcome distraction from the turmoil of your thoughts.

Gus occasionally nudged you, pointing out particularly interesting details or making quiet jokes about some of the more outlandish claims in the tour. His presence was comforting, a reminder that you weren't alone in this mess.

After about forty-five minutes, you were just exiting the Gardens of the Observatory of Paris when Gus suddenly tensed beside you. You turned to follow his gaze, and the sight that greeted you was both unexpected and overwhelming.

There stood Maggie, her arms laden with an assortment of paper bags. Next to her, also holding bags and looking slightly uncomfortable but determined, was Claude Dumont.

"What a perfect coicidence!" Maggie exclaimed, her voice infused with a forced cheerfulness that didn't quite reach her eyes as they approached. "We were on our way back to the hotel to try and find you - and we come bearing sustenance for the weary."

You stood frozen for a moment, your mind struggling to process this new development.

“What do you say to a picnic here in the park?” Maggie suggested more than asked.

You hesitated, torn between the desire to press on with the walking tour or retreat back to your room and the realization that you couldn't hide forever. Gus squeezed your arm gently, a silent show of support.

"I guess that would be okay," you managed. These were two people

Maggie's smile softened, becoming more genuine. "Wonderful. Let's find a nice spot, shall we?"

Following Maggie and Claude deeper into the garden, you couldn't help but notice the tense set of Claude's shoulders. He kept glancing at you, but didn’t speak yet, the tension palpable but manageable as Claude's presence served as a stark reminder of the company at the center of your predicament.

You found a secluded area with a few benches surrounding a small fountain. The gentle sound of water provided a soothing backdrop as Maggie and Claude began unpacking their bags.

"We've got a bit of everything," Maggie announced, beginning to open bags. The rich scent of freshly baked bread wafted towards you, mingling with the sharp tang of cheese and the sweet promise of pastries. It was a sensory bliss that further distracted you from the upheaval of your life today. Your stomach growled in approval, reminding you that you’d missed lunch.

"I... hope my presence is not wholly unwelcome," Claude said, his usually confident demeanor somewhat subdued. He held out bottles of sparkling water and spring water, letting you take your pick. "I insisted on accompanying Maggie on her mission to find and feed you. I thought perhaps I could offer some clarity on the situation."

You felt a conflicting surge of emotions. Over the past few days, you'd grown fond of Claude. His wit, charm, and genuine interest in your ideas had been a breath of fresh air in the often stuffy atmosphere of the conference. His friendly overtures had been so genuine and welcome, but now…

You hesitated, torn between your desire for answers and your instinct to protect yourself from further hurt.

Maggie intervened, her voice gentle. "I know it's a lot, but I think you should hear him out. Claude reached out to me the moment he heard, and... well, I think there's more to this story than we realize."

You took a deep breath, trying to center yourself.

"Okay," you said finally.

The late afternoon sun slanted through the window, casting long shadows across the landscape and illuminating the worry lines etched on Claude's face.

Claude cleared his throat, his fingers drumming a nervous rhythm on his knee. "First, I want to say how deeply sorry I am about what's happened. The deal with Zhongxin... it was news to me this morning as well."

Your eyebrows shot up in surprise, and you exchanged a quick glance with Gus, who looked equally taken aback.

"What do you mean? You’re head of international relations at Hansen Global.”

Claude nodded, a rueful smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Indeed I am. But the world of international business is often more complex than it appears on the surface." He leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees as he began to explain.

"You see, Zhongxin has been a coveted client for many companies in our industry for quite some time. Months ago, when they opened up a bidding process, inviting proposals for representation, multiple companies jumped at the chance, including both Nexus and Hansen Global. I was heavily involved in our pitch, given my role. We put together what I believed to be an impressive proposal - innovative strategies, cutting-edge technologies, the works."

As Claude spoke, you found yourself transported back to those intense weeks of preparation at Nexus. The late nights, the endless revisions, the nervous energy that had permeated the office. You remembered the thrill when Nexus had been selected, the pride you'd felt in being part of the team that secured such a prestigious client. The memory now felt bittersweet, tainted by recent events.

Claude continued, his voice drawing you back to the present. "We lost that bid to Nexus, fair and square. It was disappointing, of course, but not entirely unexpected given Nexus's stellar reputation emerging in the Asian market."

You nodded, a small spark of pride flickering despite everything. Your team had worked incredibly hard on that pitch.

“I have a longtime friend who is a member of Zhongxin’s board, so afterwards I asked if there was anything we could have done differently, anything that might have swayed their decision. And do you know what my friend told me?"

You shook your head, curiosity piqued despite yourself.

"He said no, that our proposal was excellent. But then he mentioned something interesting. He said that in the end, there was a dynamic young professional on the Nexus team that they had a really good feeling about. Someone who had not only showed remarkable insight and passion during the presentations, but who had been diligent, eager, and helpful in all correspondence from the beginning stages up to the end." Claude paused, and his gaze intense gaze held a visible glimmer of admiration despite the gravity of the situation. "He was talking about you."

The revelation hit you like a wave, momentarily washing away the ache of your recent firing. You remembered the pitch meeting vividly - the way you'd passionately presented your ideas, the energy in the room, the approving nods from the Zhongxin representatives. At the time, you'd attributed their positive response to the strength of the overall proposal. Now, learning that you had played such a pivotal role in securing the account filled you with a bittersweet pride.

“I told you the night we met that I was already aware of your work in Southeast Asia and this was what pointed me in your direction, and I’ve been keeping tabs on your work since then.”

Claude's words hung in the air for a moment as you processed this new information. You felt a mix of pride and confusion, unsure how to reconcile this revelation with your current situation.

"But if I was such a key factor in winning the account," you began, your voice wavering slightly, "then why would Zhongxin suddenly switch to Hansen Global? And why would Amilla think I had anything to do with it?"

Claude's expression darkened. "That's where things get complicated. And, I'm afraid, rather ugly."

He paused, seeming to weigh how to proceed with the next bit. The air was thick with tension as everyone waited for him to continue.

Claude sighed, running a hand through his hair. "About a month ago, I started hearing whispers that Zhongxin was starting to become unhappy with Nexus. Nothing concrete, just murmurs of discontent. I didn't think much of it at first - client relationships often have ups and downs, especially as two parties learn to navigate the client relationship in the first year.

"But then," Claude continued, his voice lowering, "I heard something that troubled me deeply. There were rumors that someone at Nexus was deliberately sabotaging the Zhongxin account."

You felt your stomach drop. "What? That's impossible. We were all working so hard on that account!"

Claude nodded grimly. "I have no doubt that you were. But the whispers persisted. Now you worked most often with Min Ho Song, correct?"

“Yes.”

“And Min Ho learned that your team director, Amilla Tremaine, was making a trip to Shanghai to meet with a potential new client.”

“That’s right. Amilla and Zhongxin’s schedules weren’t lining up while she was going to be there, and since Zhongxin wasn’t paying to bring her out, she had to prioritize the other client, but Min Ho and the team seemed like they were understanding.”

“Well, it turns out Amilla did find a pocket of time to meet with Zhongxin.”

A pit began to form in your stomach.

Claude's expression grew even more somber as he continued. "According to my friend on the board, Amilla's meeting with Zhongxin was disastrous. She arrived nearly an hour late, offering only a flippant apology about traffic. This, in a culture where punctuality is highly valued, especially in business settings."

You felt your chest tighten, imagining the scene. The Zhongxin executives, impeccably dressed and perfectly on time, waiting in a sleek conference room as the minutes ticked by. The growing tension, the exchanged glances, the murmured concerns.

"But it gets worse," Claude said, his voice low. "Throughout the meeting, Amilla reportedly displayed a dismissive attitude towards Zhongxin's concerns and questions. She interrupted speakers, checked her phone repeatedly, and at one point even rolled her eyes at a suggestion from one of their senior board members."

You felt sick. This was not wildly different than how she treated you, but you were stunned that she had treated any client this way - especially one as large as Zhongxin.

“Seemingly fed up with their input and concerns, she proposed drastic changes to the current strategies - strategies that, as I understand it, were largely based on ideas you had pitched to launch some of their key campaign and marketing strategies. When they tried to express that they only wanted to discuss adjustments and expansions, she said they should trust her expertise - that she didn’t tell them how to do their jobs, so they shouldn’t tell her how to do hers.”

Your jaw dropped.

“The chair of the board then said she was right - and as board chair, he knew when it was time to terminate a toxic partnership.”

“Wait,” Gus interjected. “Are you saying that Amilla knew she killed the relationship before she even left Shanghai?”

Claude nodded. “Before she even left the building.”

“What the hell! How long did she think she’d be able to keep this quiet? Or did she think she’d be able to recover?” Gus asked.

You were still too stunned to speak.

“She may have even thought closing a deal with the new client would compensate for losing Zhongxin,” Maggie tossed out.

Claude shook his head, a wry smile playing at his lips. "It's anyone's guess what was going through Amilla's mind. Perhaps she thought she could salvage the situation, or maybe she believed losing Zhongxin wouldn't be as catastrophic as it's turned out to be. The human mind has an remarkable capacity for self-deception, especially when pride and ego are involved."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the lush gardens surrounding you. The late afternoon sun filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground and highlighting the vibrant colors of the flowers nearby. A gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of blooming roses, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly cut grass.

"As for Zhongxin," Claude continued, his attention returning to you, "they didn't waste any time. After deciding to terminate their contract with Nexus, they immediately revisited the proposals that had been on the table a year ago. Our offer, it seems, still held viability and appeal for them. They worked with our office in Southeast Asia to finalize and sign the deal in the last twelve hours, and by the nature of the time difference, I only found out a couple of hours before they issued their press statement.”

You felt a mix of emotions swirling inside you - anger at Amilla, disbelief at the turn of events, and a growing sense of injustice. "But why would Amilla accuse me of betraying the company? Why fire me?"

Claude's expression darkened. "That's where things get even uglier. It seems Amilla needed a scapegoat."

Maggie leaned forward, her voice gentle but firm. "Think about it. Amilla knew she'd messed up catastrophically. She needed someone to blame, and fast."

"And I was the perfect target," you said, the realization running like ice through your veins. "Young, ambitious, someone she's never fully trusted or liked, and the person who had the closest relationship with the Zhongxin team."

Claude nodded grimly. "Exactly. By pinning the blame on you, she could potentially save face with the higher-ups at Nexus. She could claim that you had been secretly working with Hansen Global, feeding us information, and that's why we were able to swoop in so quickly after the fallout."

"That's ridiculous!" Gus exclaimed, his face flushed with anger. "There's no evidence to support that!"

"Evidence isn't always necessary when someone is desperate to cover their tracks," Maggie said softly, reaching out to squeeze your hand. “Not in the corporate jungle.”

You felt numb, struggling to process the enormity of what you were hearing. The injustice of it all made your head spin. You had poured your heart and soul into that account, into Nexus, only to have it all ripped away because of Amilla's incompetence and desperation to save face.

"So what happens now?" you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.

Claude leaned forward, his eyes intense. "That's up to you. But I want you to know that Hansen Global would be more than happy to bring you on board. In fact, when Zhongxin signed with us, they specifically suggested we poach you."

You blinked in surprise. "They did?"

Claude nodded. "They spoke very highly of your work and insights."

A small spark of pride ignited in your chest, but it was quickly doused by the weight of everything else. "I... I don't know. This is a lot to consider.”

"But this isn’t fair!" Gus retorted, his face still furious. "We can't let her get away with this!"

You appreciated Gus's righteous indignation on your behalf, but a creeping sense of hopelessness was settling in. "What can we even do? It's my word against hers.”

Gus gasped then.

“What?” you asked immediately.

“Helen!”

“Helen?”

“Yes!” he laughed. “She just landed a few hours ago! You’ve got to talk to her! You were basically her protégé! She’ll have to believe you!”

With all the drama, you’d forgotten she was on her way to Paris from Amsterdam, and while you’d been thrilled with that news this morning, now you were nervous to face her - if so many others knew you’d been fired, she certainly would by now, too.

Gus hastily pulled your phone from his pocket and thrust it into your hands. You bit your lip as you turned off Do Not Disturb.

Sure enough, among the sea of notifications, one stood out - a DM in Slack from Helen, your former boss and now the VP of Strategy and Innovation.

HELEN: We need to talk as soon as you can.

It had been sent almost an hour ago.

You stared at Helen's message, your heart racing. This could be your chance to set the record straight, to have someone with real influence at Nexus hear your side of the story. But doubt crept in - what if Helen had already made up her mind? What if she believed Amilla's version of events? Amilla was the one she’d hired as a director.

"Well?" Gus prompted, his eyes bright with anticipation. "Are you going to message her back?"

You took a deep breath, steeling yourself. "Yes, I am."

With trembling fingers, you typed out a reply:

YOU: I'm available now if you are. Where would you like to meet?

The response came almost immediately:

HELEN: Meet me in the hotel lobby in 15 minutes.

You showed the others the message, a mix of hope and apprehension swirling in your stomach.

"This is good," Maggie said reassuringly. "Helen knows you, she'll listen to your side of the story."

“And if not, I’m serious about making you an offer,” Claude reiterated. 

“Do not accept anything from him until you speak with me though,” Maggie said. “I’ve been wanting to start my own think tank, and I came to the conference this year specifically to scope out members to flesh out my team.”

You couldn’t help but grin. “Wait, really?”

Maggie's eyes sparkled with excitement as she nodded. "Yes, really! I've been planning this for months, but I wanted to find the right people to bring on board. And after seeing you in action this week, I'm more convinced than ever that you'd be perfect for what I have in mind."

You felt a rush of warmth at her words, a stark contrast to the cold dismissal you'd received from Amilla earlier. The idea of working with Maggie, of being part of something new and innovative, was incredibly appealing.

"That's... wow, Maggie. I don't know what to say," you stammered, genuinely touched by her offer.

Maggie's smile widened. "Say you'll have dinner with me tonight so we can discuss it properly. I've got a reservation at this charming little restaurant I discovered last time I was in Paris.”

You nodded eagerly, “Yes, that would be perfect! Thank you." And then you said it again with more softness and warmth, looking at each of them. “Thank you. I don't know how I would have gotten through this day without your support.”

You felt so much gratitude for these people who believed in you, even in the face of this disaster - Maggie who had known while during your graduate pursuit, Gus who had worked along side you since you started at Nexus, and Claude who’d only known you a few days but had apparently been watching your career over the past year.

As you stood to leave, Claude reached out and gently touched your arm. "Remember, regardless of what happens with Helen, you have options. Amilla's actions will not define your future."

You smiled, determination taking root in your gut again at his words. You had always worked hard for everything. It was just time to pick up and do it again.

With a deep breath, you set off towards the hotel, Gus at your side, your mind racing with all you'd learned and the conversation to come. The walk back seemed both too long and too short, your nerves growing with each step.

The hotel lobby bustled with conference attendees, their animated chatter creating a low hum of background noise. Your eyes scanned the crowd, searching for Helen's familiar face. You spotted her almost immediately. She was seated in one of the plush armchairs, her tablet in hand, looking every bit the powerful executive you remembered. When she saw you, she stood, Gus squeezed your shoulder in a show of support and good luck, and you stood a little taller as you approached the Nexus VP of Strategy and Innovation.

"Hello," she said, her voice calm and measured. "I think we need to talk.”

next chapter: coming February 17

Only two more chapters!

↠ Main Masterlist | Aspen's Ask Box | Field Guide to the Forest

I do not do tag lists, but FOLLOW @buckets-and-stories and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to be updated any time I publish a new work!

[bucks-and-noble]

I love bed Chem and the follow up!! I’d love to see them bump into each other outside of hook up times - like they’re both in the same coffee shop…and a cute barista is flirting with reader…and Bucky suddenly feels possessive when he sees it happening from across the shop but can’t say anything as they’re just hook up buds and it’s not his place to be jealous 🤭

Even Better Than In My Head

Characters/Pairings: Bucky Barnes x curvy!Millennial female!reader Word Count: 2.9k Summary: Hooking up with Bucky Barnes in the middle of the night has scratched the itch whenever you're craving between your legs, but crossing paths with the man out in the wild in normal life? Much more dangerous than you could have guessed.

Content Warnings: modern AU, hook up culture/bootycall, established sexual relationship

Author Notes: This is a follow-up to Parking Lot Chem and Camaraderie.

Logistical Notes: My first fill for @buckyboybingo (Gym) and my ninth bit for Valentine Storygrams!

↠ Masterlist | Aspen's Ask Box | Field Guide to the Forest

“This entire table is a masterpiece!” your sister exclaims, thoroughly impressed and overjoyed. “I seriously owe you!”

“You do!” you chide. “You owe me many, many favors.”

“I’d promise my first-born, but that ship has already sailed!” she replies, gesturing at her daughter - your niece - who is currently engaged in some sort of statue tag game with a gaggle of other children her age.

“I’m serious, though. You know you absolutely saved me.”

"I know," you say, waving off her gratitude with a smile. "That's what sisters are for, right?"

You both turn to survey the booth, a riot of pink and red decorations adorning every surface. Heart-shaped cookies, cupcakes with swirling frosting rosettes, raspberry-lemon bars, and delicate palmiers drizzled with white chocolate and heart-shaped sprinkles cover the table in neat, enticing rows.

"Seriously, though," your sister continues, lowering her voice, "this could make or break my campaign for PTA president. The entire board is here, and they're all watching to see how this goes."

You nod, remembering the frantic phone call you'd received two nights ago.

Your sister's voice had been a mix of panic and exhaustion as she explained how her usually angelic toddler had decided to test out his superhero abilities by leaping off the kitchen counter. The result? A nasty gash that required a trip to urgent care and several stitches. But to make matters worse, she’d only been so distracted to allow the failed test-flight of her two-year-old because she’d been trying to figure out why her oven would turn on, but refused to heat up past 180 degrees - nowhere near close enough to take care of her baking needs.

So you agreed - or offered, you really don’t quite remember how this part of the conversation went at this point - to take care of making all the baked goods.

“Couldn't let my favorite sister crash and burn at the Valentine's Day bake sale, could I?"

"I'm your only sister, you goof," she retorts with a laugh. "But again, thank you. I don't know what I would have done without you."

As you're about to respond, your sister's eyes suddenly widen, and a sly grin spreads across her face. She leans in close, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Speaking of paying you back, I think I'm about to start right now."

You follow her gaze across the crowded gymnasium, your curiosity piqued. Through the sea of parents and children, a tall figure is making his way towards your booth. As he draws closer, you can't help but notice how he seems to part the crowd effortlessly, his presence commanding yet somehow warm.

"See that absolutely gorgeous man heading our way?" your sister murmurs, her excitement palpable. "That's Aiden Hartley. He's a single dad, a widower, and practically the perfect gentleman."

You try to maintain your composure as Aiden approaches, but it's difficult not to stare. He's easily over six feet with a build that suggests he's no stranger to the gym. His short blonde hair catches the light, looking almost golden under the fluorescent glare of the school's overhead lighting. Even from a distance, you can see his eyes - a striking shade of green that reminds you of summer leaves.

As Aiden reaches your booth, a warm smile spreads across his face. Your heart skips a beat.

"Ladies," he greets you both, his voice deep and smooth. "I have to say, this spread looks absolutely incredible."

Your sister jumps in, "Oh, it's all thanks to my amazing sister here! Aiden, you haven’t met her yet, but she's the baking genius."

Aiden's gaze returns to you, a spark of interest in those mesmerizing green eyes. "Is that so? Well, I'm thoroughly impressed. I'm Carter’s dad, by the way, he’s in the same class as your niece." He extends his hand.

You introduce yourself, hoping your palm isn't too sweaty as you shake his hand. His grip is firm but gentle, and you can't help but notice how your hand seems to fit very nicely into his.

"So, what would you recommend?" Aiden asks, gesturing to the array of sweets.

“I’d like one of the cupcakes,” the last voice you’re expecting to hear interrupts from just behind you, and you whip around to find yourself face to face with Bucky, the man who has been regularly - if intermittently - wrecking you sexually.

What on earth is he doing here?

Not only is he here, he’s looking devastatingly handsome in a dark blue button-down and jeans. Your breath catches in your throat as memories of your late-night encounter flood your mind.

"One of the chocolate ones," Bucky drawls, his eyes roaming over the baked goods before settling on you with a heated gaze. "Is that a strawberry buttercream on top?"

“Mhmm,” you manage to nod, throat completely dry, brain trying to figure out how to function.

You’re not supposed to be seeing this man in the light of day - does not compute, does not compute.

"Looks like someone's been busy in the kitchen," he adds.

Your sister, oblivious to the tension crackling between you and Bucky, beams at him. "Yes! Isn't it amazing? My sister made everything here."

Bucky's lips curl into a smirk. "Is that so? You’re clearly skilled with your hands - the piping on this frosting is flawless,” he says, handing cash to your sister in exchange for one of the cupcakes.

He brings the treat to his nose, inhaling deeply, his eyes never leaving yours. "Smells divine," he murmurs, voice low enough that only you can hear. Then, with a wink that makes your knees weak, he turns and strides away, weaving through the crowd with the same effortless grace that brought him to your booth. His confident stride draws more than a few appreciative glances from the other parents.

Your sister nudges you with her elbow, breaking you out of your daze. "See, I told you you're too modest with your baking skills," she whispers excitedly. "Bucky Barnes is usually a man of few words, and he dropped plenty just now."

You nod absently, still reeling from Bucky's sudden appearance and the way he'd looked at you. Your mind races, trying to process the conflicting emotions swirling within you. On one hand, there's the familiar spark of desire that Bucky always ignites. On the other, there's a new, tentative flutter of interest as you glance back at Aiden, who's patiently waiting with a warm smile.

Your sister, ever the matchmaker, seamlessly steers the conversation back to Aiden. "So, Aiden, you were asking about recommendations?" She gives you a subtle but pointed look.

You clear your throat. "Right. Well, the raspberry-lemon bars are a personal favorite. They've got just the right balance of sweet and tart."

Aiden's eyes light up. "That sounds perfect. I'll take two, please." As your sister boxes up his order, he turns back to you. "So, do you bake professionally? These look like they could be in a high-end bakery."

You laugh, shaking your head. "Oh no, it's just a hobby. I work in marketing, actually."

"Well, you certainly have a talent for it," Aiden says, his smile warm and genuine. "I can’t wait to try these,” he adds, holding up his box.

As you're about to respond to Aiden's compliment, your sister suddenly gasps and slaps her forehead dramatically. "Oh no! I completely forgot!" She turns to you with an exaggerated look of distress. "The PTA was supposed to set up the face-painting station, but I just realized we left all the supplies in my car!"

You raise an eyebrow, sensing the poorly disguised matchmaking attempt, but play along. "Oh, that's not good. You'd better go take care of that."

Your sister nods vigorously, already backing away from the booth. "Absolutely! Can't have disappointed kids on Valentine's Day!" She pauses, then turns to Aiden with a look of calculated innocence. "Aiden, I hate to impose, but would you mind helping my sister man the booth until I get back? It shouldn't take more than fifteen or twenty minutes.”

Aiden’s eyes flash to you, gleaming with amusement, clearly recognizing your sister's ploy for what it is, but he plays along anyway. "Of course! I'd be more than happy to lend a hand... or take an order or two," he jokes, winking at you.

Your cheeks flush a with heat, but you’re not totally unhappy with her shenanigans.

Your sister rushes off and Aiden takes her place behind the table. As the two of you settle into a rhythm working the table, you can't help but feel a spark of connection. His easy smile and warm demeanor put you at ease, and soon you're chatting effortlessly about everything from your shared love of books to your favorite local restaurants.

"So, marketing, huh?" Aiden asks during a lull. "What kind of projects do you work on?"

You launch into a brief explanation of your latest campaign, surprised at how easily the conversation flows. Aiden listens attentively, asking insightful questions that show he's genuinely interested. His green eyes sparkle with intelligence, and you find yourself drawn in by his charm.

"That sounds fascinating," he says, leaning in slightly. "I'd love to hear more about it sometime. Maybe over coffee?"

Your heart flutters at the invitation, but before you can respond, your eyes are inexplicably drawn across the crowded gymnasium. Through the sea of parents and children, you spot Bucky leaning against the far wall.

He's standing slightly apart from the crowd, his presence both magnetic and aloof. The sleeves of his dark blue plaid shirt are rolled up to his elbows, revealing the corded muscles of his forearms. His hair, usually disheveled when you see him, is neatly combed back into a bun, accentuating the sharp angles of his jaw.

As if sensing your gaze, Bucky's eyes lock with yours from across the room. A slow, knowing smile spreads across his face as he brings the cupcake to his lips. You watch, transfixed, as he takes a deliberate bite, his eyes never leaving yours.

The chocolate cake yields easily, and a smear of pink frosting clings to his upper lip. Your mouth goes dry as you watch his tongue dart out, slowly and purposefully licking away the sweet confection.

The sight sends a jolt of electricity through your body, igniting a fire low in your belly. Memories of that same tongue exploring your most intimate places flood your mind. You can almost feel the ghost of it and press your legs together.

Suddenly aware that you've been staring, you snap your attention back to Aiden, who's looking at you expectantly. You realize he's still waiting for an answer about coffee.

"Oh, um, yes," you stammer, trying to regain your composure. "Coffee sounds great."

Aiden's face lights up with a warm smile. "Wonderful! How about this Saturday?"

You nod, pushing thoughts of Bucky to the back of your mind. "Saturday works for me."

As you exchange numbers with Aiden, you can't help but feel a mix of excitement and guilt. Excitement at the prospect of getting to know this kind, handsome man better. Guilt because you know that no matter how charming Aiden is, a part of you is still thinking about Bucky and the raw, primal energy between you.

About how he probably would have no problem dragging you away to his car and fucking you in the parking lot right now.

You think that’s something Aiden would never do .

The rest of the bake sale passes in good conversation with Aiden, chatting between customers and stealing glances at each other when you think the other isn't looking. You learn that he's an architect, specializing in sustainable design, and his passion for his work is evident in the way his eyes light up as he describes his latest project.

"It's a community center," he explains, his hands moving animatedly as he speaks. "We're incorporating solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and even a rooftop garden. The goal is to create a space that not only serves the community but also educates them about sustainable living."

You find yourself genuinely interested, asking questions about the design process and the challenges he faces. As you listen, you can't help but appreciate how different this interaction is from your usual encounters with Bucky. With Aiden, there's a warmth, a sense of connection that’s so natural.

But your gaze drifts regularly to Bucky. Bucky has become attached to a young boy who looks to be about six years old. The resemblance between them is striking – the same strong jawline, the same chestnut brown hair. They grin and laugh together, Bucky follows him around to the face painting, a craft station, poses with him in the photo booth.

All you have ever shared with Bucky is sex. The two of you had given next to no time to small talk even in the first few days of messaging on the hook up app and in your first meet up. You had both made it clear you used each other for sex and didn’t want anything else from the connection.

As the bake sale winds down, your sister finally returns, apologizing profusely for needing to cover the face painting instead of helping at the booth. She winks at you when Aiden isn't looking, clearly pleased with her efforts. Aiden continues to linger, helping to fold up the tablecloth and carry boxes.

This morning you were thoroughly single, no need or with to do much to be otherwise. But now you find yourself torn between two very different men. Aiden, with his warm smile and gentle demeanor, represents the possibility of a genuine connection, of building something meaningful. Your conversation flows easily, and you can't deny the flutter in your chest when he laughs at your jokes.

But then there's Bucky. Your attention drawn back to him over and over, watching as he had interacted with the young boy who must be his son. It's a side of him you've never seen before, and it stirs something unexpected within you. The tenderness in his eyes as he looks at his child is a stark contrast to the raw intensity you're used to seeing when he looks at you.

As you and Aiden start packing up the remaining baked goods, Bucky approaches your booth once more. This time, the little boy is with him, clinging to his hand and looking up at you with wide, curious eyes.

"Hey," Bucky says, his voice smooth and charming. "We wanted to grab a few more treats before you packed up." His eyes flick to Aiden, then back to you, a flash of something - possessiveness? jealousy? - passing over his face.

"Of course," you manage, brightening your voice as you direct your attention to the small boy. "What would you like?"

The little boy tugs on Bucky's hand, pointing at the heart-shaped cookies. "Can I have those, Daddy?"

Your heart does a little flip at hearing Bucky called 'Daddy'. It's such a stark contrast to the Bucky you know - the one who whispers filthy things in your ear as he pounds into you.

"Sure thing, buddy. How about we get a few to take home for later?" Bucky suggests, his voice gentle as he speaks to his son.

You can't help but smile at the interaction as you carefully package up a half dozen of the heart-shaped cookies. As you hand the box to Bucky, your fingers brush against his, sending a whoosh of butterflies through your stomach. His eyes lock with yours, dark and intense, before he glances meaningfully at Aiden.

"Thanks," Bucky says, his voice low. "These look delicious. I'm sure they taste even better than they look." The double meaning in his words is clear, and you feel a flush creeping up your neck.

"I hope you enjoy them," you manage to reply, your voice slightly breathless.

As Bucky turns to leave, his son looks up at you with a shy smile. "Thank you for the treats!”

"You're very welcome, young man," you reply, smiling warmly at the little boy. As they walk away, you can't help but watch Bucky's retreating form, admiring the way his shirt clings to his broad shoulders.

You and Aiden finish packing up the last of the baked goods, and he helps you carry the boxes to your car.

"So, about Saturday," he says as you close the trunk. "There's this great little café downtown that does this stuffed french toast that will send you to heaven. How does that sound?”

You smile at Aiden, genuinely excited about the prospect of getting to know him better. "That sounds wonderful," you reply. "I love a good french toast."

As you exchange details for your upcoming date, you can't help but feel a mix of anticipation and guilt. Aiden is everything you should want - kind, intelligent, and clearly interested in more than just a physical relationship. Yet, as you watch him walk away, your mind drifts back to Bucky.

Later that night, as you're getting ready for bed, your phone buzzes with a text. Your heart races as you see Bucky's name on the screen.

BUCKY: Those cookies were delicious. But not as sweet as your cunt.

You bite your lip, torn between responding and ignoring the message. Before you can decide, another text comes through.

BUCKY: I'm in the neighborhood. Have any of that frosting left?

↠ Main Masterlist | Aspen's Ask Box | Field Guide to the Forest

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[bucks-and-noble]

Hold You Tight: Part 19

Pairing: Club Owner!Bucky Barnes x Female Reader

Fic Summary: The owner of The 107th wants you to be his girl whether you like it or not.

Part 18 | Series Masterlist | Part 20

Chapter Word Count: Over 4.2k

Chapter Summary: Your day out with your friends isn't as relaxing as you want it to be.

Chapter Warnings: DARK AU, drinking, suspected drugging, reference to stalking and violence, your friends are cheering you on, inner turmoil, stubborn reader, Bucky Barnes (he's a warning, okay?), more warnings to come.

A/N: More Hold You Tight! Thank you again for sticking with me! Bucky edit by the beautiful @nixakimbo . ❤️ Beta read by the lovely @whisperlullaby but any and all mistakes are my own. Divider by the talented @firefly-in-darkness . Please follow @navybrat817-sideblog new fics and notifications. Comments, reblogs, feedback are loved and appreciated!

You wished you could say you breathed easier as the limo pulled away, but you didn’t. You felt Bucky’s piercing eyes on you, watching until you were completely out of sight. He still wasn’t “out of sight, out of mind.” He made sure you’d think about him, and Ray was following in his vehicle. Even glancing quickly at the limo partition you could see that it was cracked. Was the driver one of Bucky’s men?

“Okay, so your new boyfriend is stupidly hot and loaded,” Dana said, her eyes darting around the limo. “You should be proud of yourself. Holy shit.”

“I should be proud of somehow snagging a hot and loaded guy?” you laughed a little. You always told yourself money wasn’t a factor as long as the love was there.

“Yes! Tell me he’s spoiling you the way he’s spoiling us today.”

You shrank back in your seat a bit. It wasn’t that it was the first time you were the center of attention with your friends, but it overwhelmed you specifically since it concerned Bucky. “Well, he bought me this outfit. And he has bought me a ton of books since I love to read,” you answered. You weren’t about to say that he transferred a ton of money into your account. “And on our first date he gave me a diamond necklace.”

The girls gasped. “Clothes, books, and a diamond necklace?! Yeah, be proud and fucking flaunt it,” Dana encouraged. She had to be half teasing since she knew that wasn’t your style. “Gina, Addison, back me up here.”

“We all know you aren’t going to flaunt any gift he gets you, but you should’ve seen the way he looked at you. He had hearts in his eyes,” Gina smiled. You tried to smile back. There were hearts alright, along with some darkness that they weren’t aware of. “I’m surprised he even looked at us.”

“Yeah, he’s… kind of intense like that,” you said. That was the word you’d go with.

“Intense isn’t necessarily bad.” Addison scooted closer to you. “And you’re happy, right? He treats you well?”

If being treated like a doll, having you followed, and showering you with affection while messing with your head was meant to make you happy… “He thinks we’re soulmates. That we were meant to find each other and be together. It’s… a lot,” you said carefully. “I haven’t had anyone who seems to need me the way he does, especially so quickly.”

“Soulmates? Wow,” Addison said. “I can see why you’d say it’s a lot.”

You could’ve hugged her. Maybe she saw through some of the charade. If she did, that could also put her in danger if she spoke out.

“Or maybe he just knows what he wants and he’s an all in kind of guy,” Dana commented. She had no idea. “Wait! Have you two had sex?!”

“No, we haven’t had sex yet,” you answered. Just him jerking off over the phone and some heavy petting and jerking off again with you nearby. “But he really wants to sleep with me and I did ride his thigh,” you mumbled.

It was still clear as day in your head, how he encouraged you to get off, his lips against yours. You didn’t want to think about it, but Bucky got his way and invaded your thoughts. It was inevitable.

“Ahh! You beautiful slut! Thigh riding is so hot!” If anyone ever needed a hype girl or enabler, Dana was the one to call. “And what are you waiting for?! Let him fuck you and eat your kitty. Do it for us.”

“Hey. There’s nothing wrong with waiting,” Addison promised. Of all of your friends, she’d snap if Bucky ever hurt you. “You wait as long as you want.”

You were trying to wait, but it was only a matter of time before you had to sleep with him. “It’s just…”

“Are you worried that his feelings will fade once you two have sex?” Gina asked.

“I’m not worried about his feelings diminishing,” you said with complete sincerity. His feelings wouldn’t waver, even if his actions screamed love-bombing. “I just… I guess I never pictured myself dating someone who owns a nightclub. He just seems out of my league.”

And he was someone who had very dangerous ties.

“No, we don’t put ourselves down here. Every league is your league, and he should be honored to be your guy.” Dana clapped her hands together. “Ooh! What if we do a big date night at his club? We bring our guys, and we can all hang out?”

Your eyes widened. “I… Maybe,” you replied. It would just be another chance for Bucky to charm them, and it felt like you’d be asking him for a favor by letting your friends in. He’d probably love it.

“I’m texting my man and telling him you got a diamond necklace.” Dana quickly typed something on her phone. “He needs to step up his game.”

You were on the verge of tears. They were happy for you, but didn't seem to notice your discomfort. You didn’t blame them. Not at all. It was your fault for not being truthful about the true nature of your relationship. That wedge you imagined Bucky was trying to drive between you and your friends felt real and they didn't even know.

“As fun as it is talking about Bucky, maybe we can talk about something else?” you smiled, nudging Addison. You didn’t want this whole day to be about Bucky and your relationship. “Your big day is getting closer.”

“Yes, it is,” she smiled.

You relaxed in the seat when the conversation shifted to the wedding and found yourself smiling and laughing through the rest of the ride. Bucky still lingered in your mind since he’d be at the wedding. The nice part was that since you were in the bridal party, he couldn’t spend the entire day with you.

“We’re here!” Addison smiled as the limo eventually came to a stop.

You were the last to get out and you took a deep breath. The winery was the perfect mix of relaxation, beauty, and good vibes. The lush vineyard stretched across the hills, and you wished for a moment you could run through them and disappear. The sun on your face brought you back to the present and made you smile, and you couldn't wait to sample some wine with the girls. You had a right to enjoy your time.

“You coming?” Dana asked.

“You two go ahead. We’ll be right in,” Addison said, linking her arm with yours and leading you away from the limo. You tensed up only for a moment when you saw Ray’s vehicle in the distance. It didn’t look completely out of place though since there were other cars and people around. “Okay, what’s up? You seem on edge.”

“I do?” you asked. You thought she didn’t notice, and you should’ve known better.

“Yeah. Is it work? Or is it about Bucky?” You tensed up again. “Did you think we wouldn’t like him?”

“No, that’s not it. It’s just a lot really fast, that’s all,” you said, leaning in to whisper, “I didn’t want to say it in the limo, but he wants me to move in with him.”

She stopped walking. “Whoa. Okay, that is fast, but some couples do move quickly in whirlwind romances, so I wouldn’t say it’s completely out of the ordinary. Brady and I knew right away that we wanted to be together,” she said. What she had with Brady was pure, and you could’ve possibly had that with Bucky in another life. “Maybe Dana’s right that he just knows what he wants and he wants to go all in.”

“He’s very much all in,” you agreed.

“Are you considering moving in with him?”

“Maybe,” you said. Bucky was going to force his hand either way.

“Wow. If you’re considering that it’s either because you’re going along with what he wants or you really care about him. I hope it’s the latter,” she said, her brows pinching in concern. “But, listen, if you aren’t ready for that, he has to understand you haven’t dated in some time and you should go at the pace that makes you feel comfortable. I’m sure he’ll understand and it shouldn’t change how he feels.”

Your words caught in your throat. The pace wasn’t yours to control, even if Natasha said you had power. There was no choice in moving in and you wish you could blurt out every single thing that transpired, but the words refused to come out. Because all you could think about was what would happen to Addison, and she didn’t deserve any kind of pain.

“And if I do care about him and want to move in?” you asked.

“You know we’ll support whatever you do, but think about it carefully because that’s a big step. And if things go south, you tell us right away so we can help,” she said, giving you a small smile. “He may be your boyfriend, but you’re still my best friend and I was here first. I’ll smack him with a frying pan if he messes up.”

You blinked tears away before you hugged her. You were lucky to have a friend like her. “A frying pan? What happened to a shovel?” you teased.

“Frying pan is more accessible,” she teased back, giving you a squeeze. “Now let’s go. We have some wine to try.”

Ray kept a respectable distance from your table and didn’t make eye contact as he pretended to read while sipping his drink. You were glad for that since your friends didn’t seem to take notice of him as you all ate and sampled various wines. Though you were having a great time, you hardly drank a drop. You wanted to stay on guard in case Bucky decided to crash the outing.

“Oh, we need to take a bottle of this home,” Dana said, pointing at her empty glass. “And where the hell is your cousin?!”

“She bailed.” Addison rolled her eyes. “That's exactly why she’s not in the wedding party. I can’t rely on her.”

“That and she’s a bitch,” Dana said unapologetically while pointing at you. “We know she would’ve said something shitty about you and Bucky, and we don’t need that bad energy.”

You scoffed. Addison’s cousin was the type who always had to one-up someone or try to tear them down so she felt better about herself. You tried to see the best in others, but you were admittedly glad she wasn’t there today. “I’m sure she’ll have something to say at the wedding.”

“If she does say anything, don’t listen to her,” Addison urged. “Or say something back to shut her down.”

“Rub it in her face how hot and rich Bucky is,” Dana grinned, nudging you with her elbow. “Her head will explode.”

You inhaled. Bucky, Bucky, Bucky. Everything went back to him, and you had to say something. “You know what I should tell her?” You smiled as they listened expectantly. “I should tell her that even though Bucky is rich and handsome and could have anyone he wants, he stalked me and coerced me into being his girlfriend. You think her head will still explode, or will she just laugh?”

The table went silent as you sipped your wine before they burst out laughing. A few heads turned your way from the sound, and you didn’t crack a smile when Ray made eye contact with you. Had he heard what you said?

Dana laughed so hard she wheezed. “You don’t understand. I need you to tell her that just to see the look on her face. Please. I beg of you.”

“And make sure Bucky’s in on the joke, too,” Gina giggled.

Your heart sank. Their safety came first, but the reaction was another reason you didn’t say anything. Who would possibly believe you? He was a rich and powerful man and you were merely a florist. “Maybe I can say something that’s not quite so dark,” you smiled.

Addison stared at you curiously before she shook her head. “You and your sense of humor,” she teased, drinking the rest of her glass. “But if you could shut her up, I’ll be thankful.”

Your phone dinged before you could respond, and you almost spit up the little wine you had when you saw a message from Bucky.

“Call me. Now.”

Direct. No sweet words. Oh, no.

“Is that your loverboy?” Dana wiggled her eyebrows.

“As a matter of fact it is and he’s asking for me to call him. Do you mind if…”

“Go. We’ll be right here,” Addison smiled.

Your legs felt a bit rubbery as you walked outside and took a look around to make sure no one was nearby. What if he had a bug in your phone and he heard what you said? Oh, God. You were so stupid.

Pressing his name on your phone, you let out a shaky breath when he immediately picked up. “Kotyonok, I need you to come back,” he replied, his tone stern. Upset.

You swallowed. God, he did hear you. You could convince him it was a joke, right? No one had to get hurt. “Why, what’s wrong?” you asked, your tone remarkably calm. “We aren’t done with our samples.”

“You were followed to Addison’s this morning by one of Zemo’s men. Ray and I both spotted him.” There were muffled noises in the background. “I just finished… talking to him.”

“I was followed?” you whispered, your heart sinking for a completely different reason now. The day you went out with your friends someone followed you? “What did he want?”

“I can explain more later, but he had a ‘look, but don’t touch’ order. I broke his fingers anyway.” You closed your eyes. He sounded proud of himself. “I have some business to attend to for the rest of the day and I have to go to the club after, which is why I need you back at home.”

Ray appearing behind you almost made you drop your phone. “Jesus, Ray,” you gasped, your heart nearly beating out of your chest.

“I’m sorry,” he said, briefly resting a hand on your shoulder. “Boss messaged me to bring you home.”

“Yeah, I’m talking to him right now,” you said, narrowing your eyes. “And I’m not going home right now. I'm not leaving.”

“What?” Bucky growled. He could be angry all he wanted. You didn’t care. “This isn’t something to argue about or negotiate, I need you safe and-”

“Safe? You need me to be safe?” you asked, trying to stay calm amidst the storm inside you. “Has it occurred to you that the entire reason I’m not safe is because of you? That the only reason Zemo even cares about following me is because I’m your girl?”

“You think I don’t know that? You think I don’t know I painted the very target on your back by falling for you? I’m well aware of that fact, but I’m also the one who can keep you safe.” He sounded almost as vulnerable as he did when he talked about his mom. “So just… come home.”

You chewed the inside of your cheek. Home. “You know, there are a lot of dangerous people out there who have families and loved ones. And I’m sure some of them are blissfully unaware of what goes on behind the scenes, but not all of them are. Some are very well aware of what their partners do for a living because they were told what they were getting into.”

“Kotyonok-”

“But you didn’t, Bucky. You didn’t let me know what I was getting into. One look at me and you made the decision for me and sealed my fate,” you continued, looking sadly at Ray. “So while I’m thinking of you today like you wanted, I want you to think of me and that target you painted on my back and my loved ones. And think about if you really love me the way you say you do.”

“I do love you,” he breathed. It would be nice to believe that. “Come home, please, and we’ll talk when I get back from the club.”

“I’m finishing the day with my friends. Ray will stay here with me. I also need to go to my place before I go to the penthouse,” you said. If he wanted you there so badly, he could bend a bit since you were in no direct danger at the moment. “And don’t expect a happy conversation like we had this morning.”

One step forward, two steps back.

“I’ll just be happy that you’re safe,” he said, which only infuriated you more. You couldn’t make out what he ordered to someone else, but the muffled noises picked up again. “Leave in thirty minutes. The driver will drop your friends off and he’ll take you to the apartment. Ray will take you home from there.”

“Two hours,” you stated just to be stubborn.

“One hour,” he countered. “Or I’ll drive there myself.”

You huffed, but didn’t want to test him. “Fine. I’ll leave in one hour.” The girls would understand if you made some excuse.

“Thank you,” he exhaled. He really did sound relieved. “I love you. I’ll see you later this evening.”

You waited a beat. “Think about what I said.” Ray waited patiently as you hung up. “Have I told you that your boss is a pain in the ass?”

“He certainly is, but he is correct that your safety is important,” he agreed, gently stopping you before you went back inside. “If you aren’t in the limo in one hour, he will come after you.”

“I know,” you sighed. Bucky would be dramatic like that. And protective. “Someone was really following me?” you asked in a small voice. Bucky had no reason to lie unless he was trying to get you away from your friends.

Ray nodded solemnly. “It could’ve been to report your movements back to Zemo, but I’d have to ask the boss for more details since I didn’t get to interrogate him myself.”

“I do appreciate you both spotting him,” you complimented, even if Bucky violently handled it. You shouldn’t have expected anything less.

“Of course.” There was a ghost of a smile on his face. “You were wrong, you know.”

Your brows pinched. “About what?”

“Your strength. You handled that well all things considered,” he answered.

“You’re only saying that because you can’t read my mind,” you said. It was a mess. But you hadn’t broken down or cried, so that was a plus.

For a moment you thought he’d laugh, but he merely nodded to the building. “Better go join your friends before they miss you.”

“Thanks, Ray,” you whispered, putting a smile back on your face as you walked back inside and headed back to the table.

Addison held up two fingers. “You missed two more rounds of samples.”

“I guess I'll have to catch up,” you teased. “And would anyone object to leaving in an hour? Bucky’s planning a romantic evening for the two of us, and I need to stop by my apartment before I head over to his place,” you said. It was partially true. “If you all want to stay, I’ll get an uber and you can take the limo.”

“An hour’s fine.” Dana blinked a few times. “Anyone else tired? I’m a little tired.”

Gina covered her mouth when she yawned. “Yeah, I am, too.”

“I feel fine,” you said, frowning when Addison yawned, too. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, but a nap sounds good right about now,” she said, pushing her now empty glass away and checking the time. “It is kind of late. It’ll be night time when we get back.”

You stared at your own glass, dread filling your stomach. You felt perfectly fine, but they looked tired. Was it possible that someone slipped something in their drinks or food? Did Ray do something or did Bucky set something up in order to make you leave? Or were you just being paranoid?

“Is everyone okay?” you asked. It felt like too much of a coincidence that they all felt tired after you came back to the table. “Should we just leave right now?”

“I’m fine. I was just up really late last night,” Addison answered. Dana and Gina nodded in agreement.

“Maybe we should cut back on the samples and stick with water,” you suggested.

“You’ve always been the sensible one,” Dana said, resting her chin in her hand. “But can we still buy some bottles?”

“Yeah. As many as we want,” you promised. Bucky did say he’d spoil you, so why not?

Exactly one hour later, you were back in the limo with the girls and plenty of bottles. Unlike the ride over, the ride back was much quieter. You thought Addison would fall asleep on your shoulder at one point and Dana actually did fall asleep at one point for a few minutes. They somehow didn’t stumble on the way to the limo, and it would’ve impressed you if you weren’t so worried.

“Are you sure you girls are okay? Should we go to the hospital?” you asked.

“Why would we do that? We drank more at my bachelorette party than we did today. We’re fine,” Addison assured you. “You worry too much.”

You had good reason to worry. “This sounds crazy, but did you drug my friends? I need to know if I should take them to the hospital.” you messaged Bucky. If he did something to them…

He typed something back right away. “How could I possibly drug your friends when I wasn’t there? Is everyone okay?”

Did he actually care? “I’m fine, but they’re very drowsy and I’m worried.”

“Ray kept me updated and he didn’t see anything out of the ordinary. None of Zemo’s men were there. I didn't do anything either. Did any of them complain that they were dizzy? Nauseous? Did anyone pass out?”

“No, but it could've been something like Benadryl to make them drowsy and get me to possibly leave faster.” Or punish you by mentioning the stalking thing, if he knew, and show you that his reach expanded beyond the city.

“That’s a very creative method to get you to leave, but lots of wine can make anyone drowsy and I have no reason to do that to your friends. I think our conversation may have scared you a bit since Zemo had someone watching you and you’re understandably worried for your friends.”

You looked around at your friends. They did drink a lot more wine than you, and drugging people didn’t seem to be Bucky’s style. Zemo’s men weren’t there. Maybe you were being paranoid and the girls really were just tired. Being part of Bucky’s circle just made you question everything.

“Okay. I’m trusting you.” You had to.

“Thank you. Your worry aside, it sounds like you girls had fun though from what I heard. Maybe the next day out can be at my club. Could be fun.”

You gasped. Did he know what Dana suggested? No, no, no. You weren’t falling down that rabbit hole, and didn’t send any texts back for the rest of the drive.

Brady and the other guys were waiting on the curb when the limo stopped at Addison’s. You were the only one who didn’t get out, but you gave each of them hugs and helped hand out the wine to their significant others. They seemed a bit more awake, so maybe they were just fine. “Love you girls. And, guys, keep an eye on them. They had quite a few samples,” you said. You’d have to text each of them later to check on them.

“Love you,” the girls echoed before the door shut.

The driver headed in the direction of your place after a minute. What were you going to say to Bucky when you saw him? Would you scream at him for putting you in danger, or would you just accept that this was your life? It was a continuous losing battle the more you fought.

The morning you had with Bucky, minus the groping, had been somewhat nice. Could it be like that all the time if you tried? Could it be better if he loosened the reins?

“Thank you,” you said when the limo stopped and the partition rolled down a few inches. “How much do I owe you?”

“Mr. Barnes took care of that, miss, but if you’ll allow me-”

“Oh, no. Please don’t get out. I got it,” you smiled, letting yourself out. You scanned the street for Ray’s car, but didn’t see it. He was likely waiting for the limo to pull away.

Two steps into your building, your phone dinged. “What now?” you muttered when you opened a text from Bucky.

“Ray got a flat tire. Stay in the limo.”

You read the message twice. A flat tire? You were about to type back to Bucky that you already left the limo when you heard a familiar voice by the elevator. “It’s about time you got back.”

You couldn’t breathe when you found a pair of blue eyes staring at you. “Clark… what are you doing here?”

Oh, I hope you lovelies are prepared for the next part. And what do we think of your friends? And were they just drowsy or did something happen? Love and thanks for reading! ❤️

Masterlist ⚓ Bucky Barnes Masterlist ⚓ Ko-Fi

[bucks-and-noble]

idk about you but i just KNOW that nomad steve talks you through it. in the most panty soaking gut wrenching way. he’s always tried to hold back a little, be respectful, not be too much, but once he becomes nomad he just stops giving a damn. and he’s so cocky with it too, knowing he can keep going, keep making you feel good. he gets you going and then it’s all “that’s it baby let go” “that’s riiiiight” “that feel good? yeah? ohh look at you” mocking your desperation when you start moaning and gasping GOD i need him.

Just Say When

Characters/Pairings: Nomad!Steve Rogers x curvy Millennial Female!Reader Word Count: 3.2k Summary: Saturday, February 10, 2018. A surprise in your apartment the weekend before Valentines.

Content/Warnings: "fluffy" angst; repeated hook ups; Nomad Steve is still soft!dark and a warning all his own; explicit smut (oral: male receiving, vaginal fingering, nipple play, vaginal intercourse, unprotected sex/ejaculation); light dirty talk (there's talking, but it's not nasty dirty talk)

Author Notes: Eighth treat for the Valentine Storygrams.

Previous Part | Exiled Nomad Series

↠ Masterlist | Aspen's Ask Box | Field Guide to the Forest

You sighed as you closed the door behind you, dropping your keys on the small table in the entryway. The trip to UPS had taken longer than expected due to a line of people also shipping back their own Amazon returns. You were looking forward to a quiet evening at home, heating up something easy for dinner, and maybe catching up on that book you'd been meaning to finish.

As you shrugged off your coat, a sound made you freeze. The unmistakable hiss of running water hitting tile came from your bathroom. Your heart leapt into your throat, adrenaline surging through your veins. You lived alone. No one else had a key. There shouldn't be anyone in your apartment, let alone using your shower.

For a moment, you stood rooted to the spot, mind racing. Should you call the police? Grab a weapon? Run? But curiosity and a strange sense of anticipation overrode your fear. Cautiously, you made your way down the hallway.

The sound of water shut off the same moment you entered your room, and you hear very faint shuffling from the en suite bathroom. The door was slightly ajar and steam was billowing out. You hesitated for a moment before gently pushing it open.

The sight that greeted you made your breath catch in your throat. A very familiar, very masculine figure. His broad shoulders and muscular back were on full display as he stood wrapping one of your towels low around his hips.

For a moment, you simply stared, unable to believe your eyes. It had been a little over a month since you'd seen him unexpectedly in that nightclub in Aspen. How was he here, in your shower, as if he belonged?

Certainly sensing your presence, Steve turned, his eyes locking with yours. Without a word, he stepped closer.

"I hope you don't mind," he said, his voice low and husky. "I let myself in."

You stood frozen in the doorway, your mind reeling, pussy pulsing already.

You swallowed hard, your eyes roaming over Steve's damp, chiseled torso. Droplets of water clung to his skin, trailing tantalizing paths down his chest and abs. The towel hung dangerously low on his hips, leaving little to the imagination.

"How did you get in?" you managed to ask, your voice barely above a whisper.

Steve's lips quirked into a small, almost sheepish smile. "I may have picked the lock. I needed to see you."

Your heart raced at his words. He needed to see you. Despite the shock of finding him in your apartment, a thrill of excitement coursed through you.

"Steve," you breathed, taking a hesitant step towards him. "What are you doing here?"

He closed the distance between you in two long strides, his large hands coming to rest on your waist. The heat from his body radiated through your clothes, making you acutely aware of how close he was.

“This,” he answered your question by lowering his mouth to yours.

Steve's lips crashed against yours, hungry and demanding. You melted into the kiss, your arms wrapping around his neck as he pulled you flush against his damp body. The towel was the only barrier between you, and you could feel the hard planes of his muscles through your clothes.

His tongue swept into your mouth, tasting you deeply as his hands roamed your body. One large palm cupped your ass, squeezing possessively as he ground his hips against yours. You could feel his arousal growing, pressing insistently against your stomach.

"I shouldn't keep coming here," Steve murmured against your lips between kisses. "But I need to have you."

You knew you should question this, but all rational thought fled your mind as Steve's lips trailed down your neck, nipping and sucking at the sensitive skin.

Your head fell back, giving Steve better access to your neck as he continued his sensual assault. His beard scraped deliciously against your skin, sending shivers down your spine. Your fingers tangled in his damp hair, holding him close as he lavished attention on your pulse point.

He walked you backwards out of the bathroom and further into your room.

Then Steve stepped back, his eyes roaming over your body with undisguised hunger. The intensity of his gaze made you shiver, desire pooling low in your belly.

"Undress for me," he commanded, his voice low and husky. "Slowly."

Your fingers trembled slightly as you reached for the hem of your shirt to lift it over your head. Steve's eyes followed every movement, darkening with lust as you revealed more skin. Once your torso was fully exposed, you glanced back at Steve and let the shirt fall to the floor.

Steve's hand moved to the towel at his waist. He pulled it away, letting it drop. Your breath caught in your throat at the sight of him fully naked, his impressive arousal on full display.

Steve's hand wrapped around his cock, stroking slowly as he watched you continue to undress. The sight of him touching himself sent fire through your veins.

“Keep going,” he insisted.

Next, you unzipped your jeans, shimmying them down your hips. Steve's breath audibly caught as you stepped out of it, leaving you in just your mis-matched bra and panties. At least they were good ones.

With deliberate slowness, you reached behind your back to unhook your bra. You held the cups in place for a moment before letting it fall away. Steve's eyes darkened as your breasts were revealed, his hand moving faster on his cock.

"Don’t stop," he breathed.

Your thumbs hooked into the waistband of your panties, sliding them down your legs. You stepped out of them, now fully naked before Steve's hungry gaze.

Steve studied your body for another moment, drinking in every curve and plane. "Come here," he growled.

You moved towards him, drawn like a magnet.

“Kneel,” he said.

You sank to your knees before Steve, your eyes level with his impressive erection. His hand was still wrapped around the base, and you watched a bead of precum form at the tip.

"Open your mouth," Steve commanded, his voice husky with desire.

You complied, parting your lips as Steve guided the head of his cock between them. The taste of him exploded on your tongue as he pushed deeper into your mouth. Your hands came to rest on his powerful thighs, steadying yourself as you took more of him.

"You're always so eager for me," he gloated.

You didn't care. It was true.

Then Steve's fingers tangled in your hair, guiding your movements as you began to bob your head. "That's it," he groaned. "Take all of me."

You relaxed your throat, allowing him to slide deeper. Your tongue swirled around his shaft as you sucked, drawing a low moan from Steve. His hips began to rock, fucking your mouth with shallow thrusts as you worked him with your lips and tongue.

"Fuck," Steve groaned, his fingers tightening in your hair. "Your mouth feels so good."

You hollowed your cheeks, sucking harder as Steve's thrusts became more urgent. His cock hit the back of your throat with each movement, making your eyes water. But the sounds of pleasure falling from his lips spurred you on, eager to bring him to the edge.

Just as you felt Steve's muscles tensing, signaling his impending release, he suddenly pulled away. You looked up at him, confused and breathless.

"Not yet," Steve panted, his chest heaving. "I want to be inside you.”

Steve's eyes were dark as he reached down to help you to your feet. Without warning, he lifted you effortlessly, your legs instinctively wrapping around his waist as he carried you to the bed. He dropped you down onto the mattress, his body covering yours quickly as he settled between your thighs.

His lips found yours in a searing kiss, his tongue plundering your mouth as his hands roamed the curves of your body. You arched into his touch, desperate for more contact. Steve's beard scratched deliciously against your skin as he trailed kisses down your neck, nipping and sucking at your pulse point.

"Steve," you whined as he lavished attention on your breasts, his tongue swirling around a nipple before sucking it into his mouth.

His hand slid between your bodies, fingers finding your slick folds. You moaned as he stroked you, his fingers teasing your labia, circling your clit before dipping lower to tease your entrance. You mewled and arched into his touch, desperate for more friction.

"So wet for me already," Steve murmured against your skin, his voice low and husky. "Is this all for me?"

"Yes," you breathed, your hips rocking against his hand. "Only for you, Steve."

He groaned at your words, capturing your lips in another searing kiss as he slipped two thick fingers inside you.

And it was true. You had never been this way with any one else - not so quick to get physically involved, not uninhibited, willing to let him use your body, so ruin you with pleasure. You let him give and take without question.

You moaned into his mouth as he began to pump his fingers in and out, curling them to hit that perfect spot inside you. His thumb found your clit, circling it in tight, precise movements that had you trembling beneath him.

You knew you should stop. You knew this was dangerous, that you were setting yourself up for heartbreak. But as Steve continued working your body, you could only continue to succumb to your desperation for him, the thing that flickered in and out of your life.

"Steve, please," you whimpered, teetering on the edge of release. "I need you inside me."

Steve growled low in his throat, withdrawing his fingers. He positioned himself at your entrance, the thick head of his cock nudging against your slick folds.

"Look at me," he commanded, his voice rough with desire.

You forced your eyes open, meeting his intense gaze. The raw emotion you saw there – lust, possessiveness, and something deeper you couldn't quite name – took your breath away.

Steve pushed forward slowly, stretching you as he sank into your heat inch by glorious inch. You both groaned at the exquisite feeling of him filling you completely. When he was fully seated, he paused, giving you a moment to adjust to his size.

"You feel so good," Steve murmured, his forehead resting against yours. "So tight and perfect for me."

You whimpered in response, overwhelmed by the fullness and the intensity of having Steve so close, here with you.

Steve began to move, starting with slow, deep thrusts that had you gasping with each roll of his hips. His eyes never left yours as he gradually increased his pace, the intensity of his gaze making you feel utterly exposed and vulnerable.

"Is this what you wanted?" he growled, snapping his hips forcefully. "To be filled by my cock, stretched around me?"

"Yes," you moaned, your nails raking down his back. "God, yes, Steve."

The sound of skin slapping skin filled the room, punctuated by your breathless moans and Steve's low grunts. He hooked one of your legs over his arm, changing the angle to hit even deeper inside you.

"Fuck," you cried out as he struck that perfect spot.

"You like that?" he panted, driving into you relentlessly. "You like how I fuck you?"

"Yes," you whimpered, your nails raking down his back. "God, yes!"

His rhythm became more frantic, his hips snapping against yours with increasing force. The intensity of his thrusts had you clinging to him, pleasure building within you with each powerful stroke.

“Then fucking take what I give you,” he said.

Your mind lost everything except the feeling of Steve moving inside you, the sound of skin on skin, and the increasingly desperate noises falling from both your lips. Steve's rhythm became more frantic, his hips snapping against yours with increasing force. The intensity of his thrusts had you clinging to him, nails digging into his back as pleasure built within you.

"Open your eyes," Steve demanded, his voice strained.

You forced your eyes open, meeting his intense gaze, not realizing you’d let them slip closed. The raw emotion you saw there – desire, possessiveness, and something deeper you couldn't quite name – took your breath away.

"I want to see you fall apart," he growled, never breaking eye contact as he continued to drive into you relentlessly. "I want to watch what only I can do to you."

One of his hands snaked between your bodies, his thumb finding your clit and circling it with practiced precision. The dual sensations of his cock pounding into you and his fingers on your sensitive bud quickly pushed you towards the edge.

"Come for me," Steve commanded, his voice strained. "I want to feel you come around my cock."

His words and the relentless pressure on your clit sent you spiraling into ecstasy. You cried out Steve's name as your orgasm crashed over you, your inner walls clenching tightly around him. The intensity of your climax triggered Steve's own release. “Look so pretty when you fall apart,” he groaned, burying himself deep inside you as he came. “So pretty with my cock inside your cunt.”

For a moment, you both lay there, panting and trembling in the aftermath. Steve's weight pressed you into the mattress, but you relished the feeling of being surrounded by him.

When he finally lifted his head to look at you, his blue eyes were soft, almost vulnerable. He brushed a strand of hair from your face, his touch gentle.

"Are you okay?" he asked softly.

You nodded, still trying to catch your breath. "More than okay."

Steve rolled to the side, pulling you with him so you were curled against his chest. His arms wrapped around you, holding you close as your breathing slowly returned to normal. For a few moments, you simply lay there in comfortable silence, basking in the afterglow.

But as the haze of pleasure began to fade, reality started to creep back in. Questions swirled in your mind - why was he here? How long would he stay this time? When would you see him again, if ever?

As if sensing your thoughts, Steve's arms tightened around you. "I should go," he murmured.

“You say should go, that you shouldn’t have come here, that you shouldn’t have sought me out at the night club, I’m so tired of should’s, Steve.”

“What are you saying?”

You propped yourself up on an elbow, looking down at him. "I'm saying... I don't know what I'm saying. Parts of this are confusing, Steve. You show up out of nowhere, rock my world, and then disappear again. I never know when or if I'll see you next. It's exhilarating and amazing when you're here, and maybe that’s all this needs to be."

He sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. The conflict in Steve's eyes was clear. "You can’t mean that.”

“I’m an adult woman, Steve. I’ve built a life for myself. Let me know what I mean. If I make good or bad choices, they’re mine.”

Steve's jaw clenched as he considered your words. His hand came up to cup your cheek, his thumb tracing your lower lip. "You deserve better than this. Better than stolen moments and uncertainty."

"Maybe," you conceded. "But right now, this is what I want."

Steve searched your face, his eyes intense. "You don't know what you're asking for. The danger I'm in, the life I lead now, it's no life for anyone else."

You sat up, pulling the sheet around you. "I'm not asking to join you on missions or be part of your team, Steve. I'm just asking for this to be fine and not a ‘shouldn’t’ anymore."

He sat up as well and ran a hand down your back. You looked over at him.

“That’s all I could give you.”

Your heart swelled painfully in your chest, but you ached for more. He set your bones on fire and made you feel so good. The logical part of your brain knew this was a dangerous path. But in this moment, with Steve's warmth beside you and the lingering afterglow of pleasure, you couldn't bring yourself to care.

"Then give me that," you said softly, meeting his gaze.

And how was this any worse than the fuckboys, the bad relationships that had crashed or stuttered out, or the periods of solitude and celibacy?

"Give me whatever you can," your voice was resolute.

Steve's eyes searched yours, a mix of longing and conflict swirling in their blue depths. For a moment, you thought he might refuse, might pull away and disappear into the night as suddenly as he had appeared. But then he nodded, a small, almost imperceptible movement.

"Okay," he agreed, his voice barely above a whisper.

Relief flooded through you at Steve's agreement. You leaned in, capturing his lips in a fierce kiss. Steve responded immediately, his hand coming up to cup the back of your neck as he deepened the kiss.

When you broke apart, Steve rested his forehead against yours, both of you breathing heavily.

“I’m thirsty,” you said. “Do you want anything to drink?”

“Oh, I’m plenty thirsty,” he replied. “I’ll have some water, but I’ll also have something else when you come back,” he emphasized by slipping his hand between your legs to cup your pussy, curling one of his fingers into your folds, and you moaned.

You quickly but reluctantly pulled yourself away from Steve's touch, shivering as his finger slipped out of you. As you stood, you could feel the evidence of your escapades trickling down your thighs. You padded across the room, snagging Steve's discarded t-shirt from the floor and slipping it on. The soft cotton draped over your curves, the hem barely skimming the tops of your thighs.

The hardwood floor was cool beneath your bare feet as you padded down the hallway towards the kitchen. The apartment was quiet, save for the faint hum of the refrigerator and the distant sounds of traffic from the street below.

You pulled two cups out of your cupboard, then opened the refrigerator to pull out your water pitcher. As you pulled the door open, the interior light illuminated the contents, and you did a double take.

There, on the middle shelf, sat a familiar white takeout container that definitely hadn't been there earlier. Your heart skipped a beat as you recognized the logo emblazoned on top - it was from Bella Notte, your favorite Italian restaurant in the city.

With trembling fingers, you reached for the container, already knowing what you'd find inside. As you lifted the lid, the rich aroma of coffee and cocoa wafted up, confirming your suspicions. It was their famous tiramisu, the very same dessert you and Steve had shared that night in September when he'd shown up unexpectedly at your door.

The sight of it brought a flood of memories rushing back.

You’d been fine when he left in September.

You’d been fine when he left the first time.

You would be fine when he left this time.

You would be.

This was fine.

next part: March 10, 2018

↠ Main Masterlist | Aspen's Ask Box | Field Guide to the Forest

So this is it! This is the last encounter that brings us now to the original pieces of Nomad Steve March 10 and then March 21 (back when this was one random drable and one follow up).

And what now, you ask? There are four more parts I have planned out for them formally.

read more in the Exiled Nomad Series

I do not do tag lists, but FOLLOW @buckets-and-stories and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to be updated any time I publish a new work!

[bucks-and-noble]

Cooking Together

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Female Reader

Summary: Bucky asks you to cook a meal with him.

Word Count: Over 1.5k

Warnings: Fluff, longing, pining, canon divergent neighbor AU, flirting of sorts, mention of HYDRA, Bucky Barnes (he's a warning, okay?).

A/N: Short and sweet for @stellar-solar-flare’s Starry Winter Sky Event! I went with cooking together and Neighbor AU as a small expansion of this nonsense. February has had some lingering January energy, and I hope you enjoy what I was able to write! ❤️ Not beta read and written on my phone, so any and all mistakes are my own. Please follow @navybrat817-sideblog for new fics and notifications. Comments, reblogs, feedback are loved and appreciated!

If you asked Bucky if he thought he was a good cook, he’d say he was decent. He retained some of what his mom taught him many years ago and he carefully followed recipes once he was completely free of HYDRA. It was admittedly a bit of a rough go at first. Being able to choose what he could eat was a foreign concept after he didn't have the choice for so long. It got better each day. Every single meal he got to reclaim a piece of himself by making the choice of what he did and didn’t want.

Until today, he always cooked alone.

“Thanks for inviting me over,” you smiled, graciously accepting the apron he handed you.

Bucky had moved into the building a few months ago and you lived across the hall. As far as neighbors went, you were the best. Since day one, you always greeted him with a smile and a kind word. You never played your music too loud or disturbed anyone. Alpine adored you, which told him everything he needed to know since she was the best judge of character. And you never once objected to looking out for her when he had to leave for a mission.

Out of paranoia, he left harmless little “traps” to see if you'd snoop through anything the very first time you went over. Nothing that would hurt you or draw your attention, of course, but something that would let him know if anyone tampered with anything. You didn't. You were a genuinely good and respectful person, and that made him trust you more.

“Thanks for accepting the invitation. And allow me,” he offered, stepping behind you to help you tie it. His fingers lingered on the fabric and he took the moment to inhale your sweet scent before he stepped away. He didn't want to be a creep. “And it’s the least I could do since you offered to watch Alpine. Again.”

“I love watching her. She’s wonderful.”

The photos you sent were something he always looked forward to when he was away. Some of the captions you added made him laugh and smile. His favorite was a selfie you took with Alpine’s cheek against yours. He saved it as “my girls”, which you weren’t aware of.

Because you technically weren’t his girl.

“Well, she adores you,” Bucky smiled. He adored you, too. It stunned him when he found out you were single, and he was selfishly thankful for that. 

“I’ll have to get her another toy,” you said, your lips curling in a small smile. “If that’s okay with you.”

He laughed, a warm and easy sound. “Between the two of us, she’s spoiled rotten and she wouldn’t want it any other way.”

He never expected to be a cat dad, but life surprised him. In fact, it also surprised him that Alpine wasn’t camping out nearby or brushing against one of your legs. She was a smart cat and likely somehow sensed that he wanted alone time with you.

“Well, she deserves it,” you winked before things went quiet.

One of the nice things about hanging out with you was that he didn't mind any bouts of silence. They didn’t feel awkward or tense. In those quiet moments and stolen glances he felt like he had the best conversations with you. He was happy and felt safe being in the same space as you.

“You know,” Bucky began as he set the ingredients on the counter. He lucked out by having a decent sized kitchen since he took up a lot of space. “If I was a better neighbor, I would've just cooked a meal for you while you relaxed.”

It felt romantic for the two of you to cook together, but you weren't together and now he felt like an idiot. A gentleman would've made you a meal and pampered you. Or take you out for a nice meal. He hadn’t dressed up, opting for his jeans and a trademark Henley while you wore a sundress that had his mind racing with both sweet and filthy images. He didn't have flowers for you either.

His “game”, as Sam would say, was rusty.

“You're a great neighbor, Bucky. The best neighbor I’ve had,” you defended. He tried to be a good neighbor and person. A minor way to make up for some of his forced wrongdoings. “And cooking something together is fun! We could even try something at my place next week if you'd like.”

Bucky almost knocked the salt over, his eyes wide. “Really?” You were inviting him over to do this again?

“Yeah, really,” you replied, taking a moment to scan the simple recipe in the cookbook. You always had the cutest expression when you concentrated on something, and he didn’t want to choose something too difficult for the first meal. “We can take turns picking things out to try and trade off cooking at your place and mine. You can even bring Alpine over if you want.”

He suddenly had the image of you in his arms, dancing around the kitchen as you both waited for a meal in the oven to cook. Soft music, low lighting, his hands on your hips, and a tender smile on your face. Stealing a gentle kiss and keeping his eyes open only for a moment so he could see for himself that it wasn't a dream.

“Yeah,” he breathed, pulling his hair back in a ponytail and washing his hands to distract himself from his thoughts. “I’d really like that.”

“Great,” you exhaled. His heart beat faster when he caught you staring. He liked to pretend the look in your eyes was longing. “Sorry. You just…” you cleared your throat and gestured to his head. “You have really nice hair.”

The compliment had his heart racing even faster. “I have nice hair?” he asked. Your fingers would feel amazing in his hair.

You ducked your head for a moment before you met his gaze with a soft smile. “Yeah, you do.”

“Thanks,” he smiled back, his shoulder brushing yours when he stood beside you. Electricity lightly cracked between you. Did you feel it, too? “Um, I peeled the carrots before you got here. Would you like to cut them?”

“Oh, I think you’re better with a knife than I am,” you giggled.

He puffed his chest out and twirled the knife he selected in his hand without thinking about it. Part of him was showing off because, well, he wanted you to stare again. “How about I help you?”

“Help me? How?” you asked.

“Here.” He placed the knife in your hand and stood behind you once he had the carrots on the cutting board. “I’m going to preface this by saying I’m far from an expert, but I usually cut them into decent sized pieces before I dice them.”

“I trust your judgement,” you said, glancing over your shoulder. Your faces were close enough that he could kiss you if he leaned in a fraction. But he didn’t. He wouldn’t take what you didn’t offer.

Carefully placing his hands over yours once you faced forward, he felt that electricity crackle again as he helped guide you. He angled his hips so he didn’t press against you, but still stayed close. “See? You’re a natural,” he whispered against your ear when you made the first cut through the vegetable.

He heard the hitch in your breath and how your blood rushed faster in your veins. He felt your skin warm under his touch as you cut the next piece. He also caught the slight tremble that went through your frame when his grip tightened, but he didn’t sense any fear. He hadn't detected any sort of fear or disgust since he came into your life.

But what he sensed in this very moment was excitement.

“Thanks, Bucky,” you whispered back. The way you spoke his name was breathy, beautiful, and he longed to hear that again. “You’re a great teacher.”

“I’m not,” he said, thankful your back was to him so you wouldn’t see the pink that tinted his cheeks. “But I appreciate it.”

“Yeah, you are,” you stated, tempting him to turn your head toward him to kiss you. If he did that and you stabbed him, he wouldn’t blame you or hold it against you. “And Bucky?”

“Yeah?”

“I really am glad you invited me over,” you said.

He stopped himself from putting his face in the crook of your neck. “I am, too,” he said, smiling to himself as he helped you finish up. “And now that you’ve mastered the carrots, we can chop the onions.”

“Onions? Oh, no,” you groaned playfully.

As the sound of both of you laughing a second later filled the room, Bucky was glad he went with his gut and asked for you two to cook together.

And maybe before the night was over, he’d ask you out on a date and prove to himself that his game wasn't completely hopeless.

I wonder just how he'll ask you out! Love and thanks for reading! ❤️

Masterlist ⚓ Bucky Barnes Masterlist ⚓ Ko-Fi

[bucks-and-noble]

Hii!! So o just started rewatching Once Upon A Time, and I just had a thought about Jefferson omg!!

Would it be okay if I request a Jefferson x fem!reader where she is Emma’s sister (technically twin, but Y/n somehow got sent to a later time than Emma, so she’s in her early 20s so she’s younger than Emma)? After the curse is broken they find her at her barista job and she comes back to Storybook with them (after the Charmings prove they’re her parents and Emma is her sister). Anyways, she moves in with her parents and gets super close with them and the rest of her family (and everyone in storybook) and she happens to meet Jefferson when she’s checking out the bookstore in town? She immediately draws his eyes and he definitely flirts with her!! Anyways, they start dating in secret until her parents come across them cuddling (in Y/n’s defense her parents weren’t supposed to be home yet lol). David being soo protective like he was when he found out Hook was seeing Emma, and Mary being so shook lol, also Emma would be kind of shook too lol after her experience with him. Y/n and Jefferson just really love each other a lot, and his daughter really wants her dad to marry Y/n because she wants her to be her Mom🥹

True Love » Jefferson/Mad Hatter

Pairings: Jefferson x Female Reader

Summary: You and Jefferson find true love in each other shortly after the curse is broken.

Warnings: Fluff, tiny bit of Angst (not Jefferson), language, kissing, crying (happy tears), pet names

A/N: Thank you for the lovely request @kpopgirlbtssvt 🩵

A/N #2: I’m still catching up on Once Upon A Time since I haven’t watched it in a while. I apologize if I get anything wrong.

Written on my phone. My apologies for any mistakes.

Header made by @buck-star

GIF IS NOT MINE! Gif credit goes to the creator.

Immediately after the curse was finally broken, Emma went to find her parents with Henry, only to find out that her parents are Prince Charming and Snow White.

“Where’s your sister?” Snow asks.

“Sister? I have a sister?” Emma asks, looking from her mom to her dad.

“You have a twin sister. Her name is Y/N. Although, the curse may have affected her differently.” Charming tells her.

“What do you mean differently?” She asks.

Henry opened his book and flipped to the page you’re on and handed it to Emma. Emma took the book from Henry and read your part of the story. She was taken by surprise by what she read.

“Y/N got sent later in time, but she looks younger than me.” Emma reads aloud, looking up at her parents.

Snow and Charming nodded, confirming it.

“Where is she?” She asks.

“I know where she is.” Henry chimes in.

“Take me to where she is, Henry.” Emma says.

Henry nods with a smile and started walking with Emma, Snow, and Charming following behind him. They didn’t have to walk far. You were working at a coffee shop a street away.

“Where is she?” Emma asks, looking around the coffee shop.

“She’s the lady pouring coffee.” Henry says, pointing at you.

Emma looks over at you, looking at you for a moment before walking over to the counter.

“Hi! What can I get you guys?” You asked politely.

“I- Is there anyway that we can talk to you for a moment?” Emma asks.

You furrowed your eyebrows in confusion before calling one of your coworkers over to take over for you. You followed Emma, Henry, Snow, and Charming to a table and sat down.

“What do you guys want to talk about?” You asked.

“I know this is going to sound crazy and trust me, I thought it was crazy at first too, but I’m your twin sisters and they’re your parents.” Emma tells you.

Your eyebrows shot up. You were caught by surprise.

“What?” You asked, making sure you heard her right.

“It’s true.” Snow says.

You sat there completely speechless. Henry opened his book and flipped it to the page that explains everything.

“This will help.” Henry says, putting the book in front of you.

You read the pages you’re on. The book confirms everything for you. Prince Charming and Snow White are your parents and Emma is your twin sister.

“How is this possible? How are you and I twins if I’m younger than you?” You asked, looking at Emma.

“From what I just learned, there was a curse that was just broken and when it was casted you got sent a little further in time than me.” Emma explains.

“Who casted the spell?” You asked.

“The Evil Queen.” Charming says.

You leaned back against the chair, trying your best to process everything you just learned.

“Everything we’re telling you is true, Y/N.” Snow says.

“It came as a shock to me as well.” Emma says.

“We would like to get to know you, if you’re ok with that.” Charming says.

You thought about it for a moment. You spent your whole life trying to figure out who your parents are and now that they’re sitting in front of you, along with your twin sister, you want to get to know that.

“I would like that.” You say softly, making them smile.

Over the next few months, you got to know your family and you ended up moving in with your parents. Today, you were going to a bookstore. You accidentally bumped into someone when you were trying to open the door to the bookstore.

“I am so sorry!” You apologized. “I wasn’t paying attention to where I was walking.” You say.

“No need to apologize. I wasn’t paying attention to where I was walking either.” The man says with a small chuckle.

When you looked up at him, you couldn’t help but notice how pretty and how blue his eyes are. You got lost in them.

“Forgive me for staring, but you have very pretty eyes.” You complimented.

“I’m pretty sure all of the prettiness is reserved for you, darling.” He compliments flirtatiously, flashing a smile at you and making you blush. “I’m Jefferson.” He says, holding his hand out for you to shake.

“I’m Y/N.” You introduced yourself, shaking his hand.

“If it’s ok with you, I’d like to take you out on a date.” Jefferson says with a hopeful smile.

“I’d love that.” You smiled.

“I’ll see you tomorrow at 7pm.” He says.

“See you tomorrow.” You smiled.

You walked inside the bookstore with a smile on your face. All you could think about is your date with Jefferson. Instead of buying a book, you went straight home to look for something cute to wear on your date with him tomorrow night.

You and Jefferson got really close after a few dates. Jefferson found out you’re one of the daughters of Snow White and Prince Charming. You found out he has a daughter named Grace who you met the other. Jefferson brought her into the coffee shop you work at for you two to meet and you two get along perfectly. Shortly after meeting Grace, you and Jefferson made it official. Except, your parents don’t know about it. As of right now, you and Jefferson are cuddling in your bedroom.

“Grace really likes you.” Jefferson says, gently rubbing your back.

“I like her too. She’s a great kid.” You say, playing with his scarf.

“She is.” He smiles.

You looked up at him, admiring his handsome features.

“You’re staring, sweetheart.” Jefferson says, looking down at you.

“No I’m not. I’m simply admiring how handsome my boyfriend is.” You say.

“Well, in that case…” He kisses you. “You’re absolutely gorgeous.” He says softly.

You smiled and blushed before leaning up to kiss him softly and passionately. The kiss got cut short when your parents walked in your bedroom.

“Y/N!” Charming says loudly.

You and Jefferson separated from each other to see your parents standing in the doorway of your room.

“Mom, dad, what are you guys doing home early?” You asked, your face red with embarrassment.

“We should be asking you why he’s in your bed.” Charming says, gesturing to Jefferson and narrowing his eyes at him.

To save yourselves from even more embarrassment, Jefferson got off your bed.

“I’ll see myself out.” Jefferson grabbed his jacket. “I’ll see you tomorrow, sweetheart.” He says softly, kissing your cheek.

You gave him a smile and watched him leave.

“Dad, why would you do that?” You asked.

“I didn’t do anything. You had the Mad Hatter over without our permission.” He says.

“Him and I were just cuddling. That’s what boyfriends and girlfriends do.” You say.

Your parent’s eyes went wide when you said that.

“Sweetie, did you say boyfriend and girlfriend?” Snow asks, making sure she heard you right.

Your eyes went wide.

“Yes.” You mumbled.

Charming shook his head and walked out of your room.

“I love him, mom and he loves me.” You tell her. “Don’t make us break up. Him and I are happy together. What we have is true love.” You say.

“I’ll talk to your father.” She says.

You nodded as she walked out of your room.

“Darling?” Snow says softly as she walks in the living room where Charming is.

“I don’t want our daughter dating the Mad Hatter.” Charming says.

“She’s in love and happy with him.” She says.

“He’s a mad man.” He says.

“Don’t you want our daughter to be happy?” She asks.

“Yes. Just not with him.” He says.

“Whether we like it or not, she’s not going to break up with him.” She says.

Charming thought about it for a moment. All he wants is for his daughters to be happy. As much as he doesn’t like Jefferson, he makes you happy.

“Ok, fine.” Charming sighs. “Y/N, come here please!” He calls out.

You went downstairs to the living room where your parents are.

“Are you going to make me break up with Jefferson?” You asked, your eyes tearing up.

“As much as I don’t like him, no. I want you to be happy. You can stay with him.” Charming tells you.

You smiled and hugged both of your parents. They hugged you back and smiled.

“I love you guys so much!” You say.

“I want to give him a talk though.” He says.

“What kind of talk?” You asked.

“I just want to tell him what’s going to happen if he ever breaks your heart.” He says.

“He won’t do that, dad.” You say.

“I just want to be sure.” He says.

The next day, Jefferson and Grace met you at the coffee shop you work at. It’s something they do frequently after Jefferson picks Grace up from school. Jefferson gets Grace a hot chocolate and a treat and gets himself a tea as usual.

“Y/N!” Grace exclaims excitedly.

“Hi, Grace!” You smiled.

Grace ran over to you, greeting you with a hug. Jefferson greeted you with a kiss on your lips.

“How much more does your father hate me?” Jefferson asks.

“Not as much as you’d think. He wants to talk to you.” You say.

You got Jefferson and Grace their drinks and treats. They always sit at a table and wait for you to finish work.

“What does your father want to talk to me about?” Jefferson asks as you, him, and Grace walk inside your parent’s house.

“He just wants to make sure you don’t break my heart.” You say.

“You know I’m not going to do that, sweetheart.” He says, pecking your lips softly.

As a father himself, Jefferson understands why Charming wants to talk to him. He would do the same thing if it were Grace.

“Mom, dad! I’m home!” You announced throughout the house.

You found your parents in the living room.

“Hi, sweetie.” Snow smiles. “Let’s go to the kitchen so your father can talk to Jefferson.” She says.

You nodded and followed your mom to the kitchen with Grace following right beside you.

“Jefferson.” Charming says.

“Charming.” Jefferson says.

There was an awkward silence between the two men for a moment before Charming said something.

“Y/N tells me and Snow that you two are in love.” Charming says.

“That’s right.” Jefferson confirms. “Your daughter makes me happy.” He says.

Charming stared at him for a few seconds to see if he was telling the truth, in which he is.

“You have a daughter so I’m sure you’d say the same thing if the roles were reversed.” Charming begins. “If you break my daughter’s heart, I’ll hurt you in the same way you hurt her.” He says.

“I’m not going to break her heart. I love her and so does my daughter. She’s an amazing influence for Grace.” Jefferson says.

Emma walks in the house, walking in the living room, accidentally interrupting yours and hers dad’s conversation with Jefferson.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt. I thought mom and Y/N were in here.” Emma says.

“They’re in the kitchen with Grace.” Charming tells her.

Emma nods and looks at Jefferson, narrowing her eyes at him before going to the kitchen.

“Why’s dad talking to Jefferson?” Emma asks as she sat down at the table.

“He wants to tell him to not break my heart.” You say.

“Not to break your heart? What do you mean?” She asks.

“Papa and Y/N are boyfriend and girlfriend.” Grace tells Emma.

A shocked expression formed on Emma’s face when Grace told her that.

“You and Jefferson are dating?” Emma asks.

“Yes.” You answered.

“For how long?” She asks.

“A few weeks.” You answered.

“Maybe you can be my new mom!” Grace chimes in excitedly.

You stared at Grace in surprise when she said that.

“They would have to get married first before she can be your new mom, Grace.” Snow says.

“I know.” Grace smiles.

A few months later, Jefferson asked you to move in with him and Grace, which you happily did. Grace sees how much you and her papa love each other. It makes her happy to see her papa happy.

“Papa, when are you going to ask Y/N to marry you?” Grace asks curiously.

“Some time real soon. Why do you ask, sweetie?” Jefferson asks.

“I want her to be my new mom.” She says.

Jefferson smiles softly at his daughter.

“Are you sure that’s what you want, baby?” He asks softly.

“Yes!” She answers, nodding her head eagerly. “I love her like she’s my mom!” She says.

“I love her too.” He smiles. “I’m going to show you something, but you have to promise to not tell Y/N.” He says.

“I promise, papa!” She promises.

Jefferson took a small box out of his pocket and opened it, showing Grace the diamond ring in it.

“Is this for Y/N?” Grace whispers.

“Yes. What do you think of it?” Jefferson asks softly.

“It’s shiny and pretty. Y/N will love it.” She smiles.

“I hope she will.” He smiles.

Jefferson closed the small box and put it back in his pocket at the same time you walked in the living room.

“I was wondering where you two were.” You say as you sat down on the couch.

“Papa and I were talking about you.” Grace says.

“All good things I hope.” You say.

“All good things.” Jefferson smiles. “Grace, can you play in your room for a little bit? I have to talk to Y/N about something important.” He says.

Grace nods before carefully sliding off the couch and went to her room to play.

“I have to ask you an important question, my love.” Jefferson says softly.

You watched as Jefferson stood up and got a small box out of his pocket. He got down on one knee in front of you. You gasped softly when he opened the small box, revealing a beautiful diamond ring.

“When we met, I knew we’d be together forever. I know how true our love for each other is. I love what a great mother figure for Grace. I love you with all of my heart. Will you marry me?” He asks.

“Yes!” You answered, happy tears rolling down your cheeks.

Jefferson smiles widely and put the ring on your finger. He then kissed you passionately, gently cupping your cheeks.

“Let’s tell Grace.” Jefferson almost whispers.

You nodded and stood up. You two walked hand in hand to Grace’s bedroom to see her playing with her new stuffed bunny.

“Grace, we have amazing news.” Jefferson says.

“What is it?” Grace asks, putting her bunny down.

“Your papa and I are getting married.” You tell her, showing her your engagement ring.

Grace squeals happily and gave you two a hug.

“Does this mean I can call you mom or mama?” Grace asks curiously, looking up at you.

“Of course you can, sweetie.” You smiled. “I want you to know that I’m not replacing your real mom in any way.” You say softly.

“I know.” She almost whispers. “I love you, papa. I love you, mama.” She says, still hugging you and Jefferson.

“We love you too, sweetie.” You and Jefferson say in union softly.

Later that same day, you were laying in bed, admiring your engagement ring with a smile on your face.

“Mrs. Mad Hatter suits perfectly, don’t you think?” Jefferson says with a smile on his face.

“It’s absolutely perfect.” You almost whispered.

Jefferson got in bed next to you and kissed you sweetly.

“You’re going to be an amazing mom to Grace.” He says softly.

“I think so too.” You say.

“I love you, sweetheart.” He murmurs softly, kissing you softly.

“I love you too, my Mad Hatter.” You whispered, kissing him back.

🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩🎩

-Bucky’s Doll

[bucks-and-noble]

I am even more excited about Fridays because of you and Presidential Mr. and Mrs. Rogers. I’m so looking forward to how everything turns out with those two!

Well, nonnie, we're finally back!

Red, White & True: Tuscon & Denver [12/?]

Characters/Pairings: Steve Rogers x curvy Millennial Female!Reader, side of Bucky and Sam Word Count: 4.7k Summary: Your mom joins the campaign trail.

Content/Warnings: political policy discussion, marriage of political convenience, slow burn, really the slowest burn

Notes: This takes place in a post-Endgame scenario where Steve stays and generally most of TFATWS happened.

Author Notes: For the seventh day of the Valentine Storygrams!

Previous Chapter | Series

↠ Main Masterlist | Aspen's Ask Box | Field Guide to the Forest

[OCTOBER 12 - TUCSON, ARIZONA]

The tension between your mother and Steve simmers beneath the surface over the next two hours. You try to keep things light, showing your mother around campaign bus and introducing her to more of the staff. But there's an undercurrent of unease that you can't shake.

At the hotel the campaign’s logistical director has managed to assign adjoined rooms to you and your mom. After changing into your pajamas, you knock on the door that connects you, and a moment later your mom opens up. The two of you sit on one of the queen beds and begin to talk, just the two of you. There’s much less tension, and she gives you stories and updates about family and friends and old neighbors from your old home. You soak up the nostalgia, but it also feels strange to hear about all the normal things happening - so opposite from your whirlwind days and weeks on the campaign.

Your phone buzzes with a message, and you pause your conversation briefly to check what it says. “It’s just a couple of logistical updates for tomorrow morning,” you say, before looking back up.

When you do, you see your mother’s expression has changed. Now she’s watching you with a pensive expression as she rests against the pillows piled up in front of the headboard.

“What is it?” you prod.

"Honey," she begins, her voice careful. "Are you sure about all this?"

"What do you mean?"

You knew at some point the two of you were due to have this conversation. It’s a conversation that had begun to grow into an argument that had been deterred only by your father father insisting that the two of you not get into it on your wedding day.

She sighs, smoothing invisible wrinkles from the bedspread. "This campaign. Running for office. It's just so much pressure, so much scrutiny. After what happened with those awful photos, I can't help but worry about you. Is this really what you want?"

You take a deep breath, considering your words carefully. "Mom, I know it's not an easy path. But yes, this is what I want. I believe in Steve and what he stands for. And I believe I can make a difference by his side."

Your mother's brow furrows. "But at what cost? Your privacy, your peace of mind? I saw how those false accusations affected you - it’s why I’m here, why Steve called and asked me to come. And that's just the beginning. If Steve wins, your whole life will be under a microscope."

You nod, acknowledging her concerns. "I know. And it's not always easy. But Mom, the good we can do outweighs the challenges. I've seen firsthand how Steve inspires people, how he brings out the best in them. The plans he intends to put into action based on what he wants to do for the people? I want to be part of that."

She shakes her head slightly. "But honey, you barely knew him when you got married. And now you're in the middle of this huge campaign. Don't you think it's all happening a bit fast?"

You can't help but bristle at her words, even as you try to understand her perspective. "Mom, I know it seems fast from the outside. But Steve and I... we've been through so much together already. The campaign has only brought us closer."

Your mother reaches out, taking your hand in hers. "I just worry about you, sweetheart. I’ll always worry about you. I want you to be happy."

"I am happy, Mom," you say, squeezing her hand. "Yes, there are challenges, but I'm doing something I believe in."

She studies your face for a long moment, then nods slowly. "I can see that. I just... I guess I'm still trying to wrap my head around all of this. My little girl, potentially becoming the First Lady of the United States."

You chuckle softly. "Trust me, I still don’t feel like that could be real, even though getting Steve elected is our only goal and fuels everything we do. I’m glad you’re here - you’ll be able to see what we do, and what I’ve seen while we do it.”

You can see your mother's expression soften slightly as she listens, though you can sense there is more she’s still thinking about.

"Tell me more about what you've seen," she says, leaning forward slightly. "What's it really been like out there on the campaign trail?"

You can't help but smile, feeling a surge of enthusiasm as you begin to share your experiences.

"Oh Mom, it really is incredible," you say, your voice filled with wonder. "We've been to so many places, met so many amazing people. There was this small town in Iowa where the entire community came out to hear Steve speak. They had handmade signs and everything. And in Detroit, we visited this incredible urban farm that's providing fresh produce to food deserts in the city."

Your mother listens intently as you continue, describing the passionate volunteers who work tirelessly for the campaign that you’re meeting across the country, the vibrant energy of rallies in big cities, the intimate town halls in small communities, and the countless conversations with people you never would have met across every pocket of America.

"We met this incredible woman in New Mexico who's been fighting for clean water rights for her community for decades. And in Florida, we toured a cutting-edge renewable energy facility that's creating jobs and combating climate change. Every day, I'm learning so much about the issues facing our country and the innovative solutions people are developing."

You tell her about the late-night strategy sessions with the campaign team, the thrill of seeing poll numbers climb, and the humbling moments when you've comforted supporters who've shared their personal struggles.

"It sounds amazing," your mother admits, a hint of awe in her voice. "I can see why you're so passionate about it all."

You nod eagerly. "It really is, Mom. I feel like I'm part of something so much bigger than myself."

Your mother's expression softens further, a mix of pride and concern in her eyes. "I can see how much this means to you, sweetheart. And I'm proud of you for being so passionate and dedicated." She pauses, squeezing your hand. "But I want you to remember something important."

You tilt your head, waiting for her to continue.

"You are still important," she says firmly. "You, as an individual, not just as Steve's wife or as part of this campaign. Don't lose yourself in all of this."

Her words remind you of something Helen Santos once said to you, about the importance of maintaining your own identity amidst the whirlwind of the campaign. You nod, acknowledging the truth in her statement.

"I know. I'm trying to keep that balance. It's not easy, but I'm learning."

She squeezes your hand gently. "And what about that awful photo scandal? Are you really okay? I know you’ve shown such a put-together and brave face for the media, and even for me tonight, but I’m your mother, you don’t need to be strong for me."

You take a deep breath, feeling a familiar tightness in your chest at the mention of the incident. It’s surreal to believe it only happened yesterday morning.

"It was hard, Mom. Really hard," you admit, your voice catching slightly. "When I first saw those photos, I felt like the ground had disappeared beneath my feet. I was terrified, embarrassed, and angry all at once. It was like my world had been yanked out from under me."

You take a shaky breath, feeling the echo of the emotions of that moment. "I couldn't stop thinking about all the people who would see those photos, judge me, make assumptions about who I am. For a while, I felt like I couldn't breathe. I was terrified it would derail everything we've worked for - and all the worse because the photos aren’t even real."

Your mother wraps an arm around you, pulling you close. You lean into her embrace, grateful for her presence.

You continue, "But then, as we dealt with the fallout, as I spoke with our team and supporters, I realized that this wasn't just about me or the campaign. It was about a much bigger issue - the lack of understanding and support for women's health in our country."

You pause, feeling a surge of passion as you continue. "It’s only been a day since I’ve started to learn more, and I’m just stunned by the amount of things I did’t know, Mom. Like did you know that it takes an average of seven to ten years for a woman to be diagnosed with endometriosis? Or that heart attack symptoms in women are often dismissed as anxiety?”

Your mother nods, her eyes widening. "I remember when your Aunt Sarah was struggling with her symptoms for years before they finally diagnosed her fibromyalgia. The doctors kept telling her it was just stress or depression."the

"Exactly!" you exclaim. "And it's not just about diagnosis. It's about research funding, access to care, and education. Did you know that for decades, most medical research was conducted primarily on men? Even in animal studies, they used male rats and mice. It means we have huge gaps in our understanding of how diseases and treatments affect women differently."

As you speak, you feel a familiar fire igniting within you. It's the same passion that drove you to join Steve's campaign in the first place - the desire to make a real difference in people's lives.

"And then there's the stigma," you continue, your words tumbling out faster now. "So many women's health issues are shrouded in shame and silence. Menstrual health, fertility struggles, menopause - these are all normal parts of women's lives, but we barely talk about them openly. And don't even get me started on maternal mortality rate in the United States. It's shockingly high for a developed country, especially for women of color. Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women. It's a crisis that's not getting nearly enough attention."

You pause, taking a breath. "The more I learn, the more I realize how much needs to change, and if Steve gets elected, this will be one of my initiatives as First Lady.”

Your mother's eyes widen as she listens to you speak, a mixture of pride and admiration crossing her face. "Honey, I had no idea you'd become so… well, I’m... I'm just so impressed, and I couldn’t agree with you more."

You lean forward, your eyes bright with excitement. "I've been thinking about how we could approach this. We could start with a nationwide listening tour, hearing directly from women about their experiences with the healthcare system. We could partner with medical schools to promote more inclusive research practices. And we could launch a public awareness campaign to break down the stigma.”

Your mother's enthusiasm is palpable, and you can see the wheels turning in her mind as she absorbs all the information you've shared. Suddenly, an idea strikes you, and you feel a surge of excitement coursing through your veins.

"Mom," you begin, your voice brimming with anticipation, "You've always been so passionate about women, about building strong communities, and you have such a way with words. Would you maybe... want to help us build out the messaging for this initiative while you're here?"

Her eyes widen, a mix of surprise and delight dancing across her features. "Me? But you know I'm not a political strategist or a healthcare expert."

You shake your head, grinning. "That's why you would be great! We have plenty of experts and strategists. We need is heads in the room who can translate all of the complexities into real-woman information. And this could be ongoing - after you go home, you could coordinate and consult remotely easy as anything.”

Your mother's eyes light up, a smile spreading across her face. "Oh honey, I would love that. I've… I haven’t really said this to anyone, but I’ve been starting to wonder what I could do that would mean something getting older, and this feels like something I could really contribute to."

You feel a small lump in your throat at her admission - something that clearly had been worrying her - and now you’re even more enthusiastic about how things are developing with this initiative. Not only has your mother begun to understand your passion for the opportunity this campaign and opportunity could bring, but she's now eager to be a part of it.

"Oh, Mom! I can't wait to introduce you to the team and get your insights. We could start tomorrow morning if you're up for it."

She nods enthusiastically. "Absolutely. I'll need to brush up on some of these issues, but I'm ready to dive in."

You continue to discuss potential ideas and strategies, and you feel a shift in the energy between you and your mother. The tension from earlier - from the months since you married Steve, honestly - has dissipated, replaced by a shared sense of purpose and excitement.

You and your mother continue talking late into the night, brainstorming ideas and sharing stories. As the conversation winds down, you feel a deep sense of gratitude wash over you. Not only has your mother come to understand your passion for the campaign, but she's now eager to contribute her own skills and experiences.

"Mom," you say softly, "thank you for being here. For listening and for wanting to be part of this."

She smiles warmly, pulling you into a hug. "Oh, honey. I'm so proud of you. I may not have understood at first, but I can see now how much good you're doing, how much this means to you."

As you settle into bed that night, your mind is buzzing with possibilities. You send a quick text to Steve, updating him on your conversation with your mother and her willingness to help with the women's health initiative. His response is immediate and enthusiastic.

STEVE: That's fantastic! I’m sure your mom's perspective will be invaluable. Can't wait to discuss more tomorrow.💙

You heart flips over his use of the heart emoji, but his response in general makes you smile, loving how your lives are moving forward, your relationship, and the ease you feel to share everything with him now. You’re feeling a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for what lies ahead. As you drift off to sleep, you find yourself imagining the potential impact of this initiative, the lives it could touch, and the changes it could bring.

[OCTOBER 13 - TUCSON, ARIZONA]

The next morning, you wake early, eager to start the day. After a quick shower and getting dressed, you knock on your mother's adjoining door. She answers promptly, already dressed and looking just as excited as you feel.

"Ready for your first official strategy meeting?" you ask with a grin.

Your mother smiles a little nervously, but her eyes are still twinkling with anticipation. "I suppose so. Lead the way."

You guide her down to one of the hotel's conference rooms for the current makeshift campaign headquarters. As you enter, you're greeted by the familiar buzz of activity - staffers huddled over laptops, phones ringing, and the ever-present aroma of coffee.

Steve is already there, engaged in a conversation with the communications team, but he breaks away when he sees you and your mother enter. He strides over, a warm smile on his face.

"Good morning," he says, giving you a quick kiss before turning to your mother. "I'm so glad you're joining the team. Your daughter tells me you have some great ideas for our women's health initiative."

Your mother nods. "Thank you for having me. I'm looking forward to contributing."

And her smile - the real one - is gone.

Oh.

Your eyes flicker to Steve, and although his expression remains open, you notice the note of wariness behind his eyes.

Things had gone so well with your mom you forgot the little issue of her not liking Steve.

As the tension threatens to settle in, you're saved by Mariah, the campaign's health policy advisor, who sweeps into the room with an armful of folders and a tablet balanced precariously on top.

"Oh good, you're all here!" she exclaims, her curly hair bouncing as she sets down her load on the nearest table. "I've got some amazing data from our latest focus groups, and I think it's really going to shape our approach."

Steve checks his watch and grimaces slightly. "I'm afraid I have to leave for that appearance on 'Good Morning Tucson' in half an hour minutes." He turns to you and your mother. "I'm sorry I can't stay, but I'm looking forward to hearing all about it later. I know you'll come up with some fantastic ideas."

You nod, giving him a reassuring smile. "No worries, we've got it covered. Good luck at the tv station.”

With a quick squeeze of your hand and a polite nod to your mother, Steve heads out of the room. You turn back to see your mother's smile has become a bit more forced.

"Well," you say brightly, trying to dispel the awkwardness, "shall we get started?"

Mariah nods enthusiastically, gesturing for you and your mother to join her at the table with other members of the team. As you settle in, she begins to lay out the data from the focus groups, explaining the key findings and areas of concern that have emerged.

Your mother listens intently, her brow furrowed in concentration. You can see her analytical mind working, processing the information and forming connections. Despite her initial coolness towards Steve, you can tell she's fully engaged with the topic at hand, and she easily builds rapport with the rest of the team.

[OCTOBER 15 - DENVER, COLORADO]

"Hey, you," you say as you collapse into the seat next to Steve on the campaign bus. It's been a whirlwind few days since leaving Tucson, with back-to-back events across Arizona and New Mexico before arriving in Colorado. Along with interviews and slew of daily meetings, you've barely had a moment to catch your breath, let alone spend any quality time with Steve.

The bus rumbles to life, pulling away from the community center where Steve just finished giving a rousing speech on education reform. Through the tinted windows, you can see the crowd still waving signs and cheering as you depart.

Steve looks up from his tablet, a tired but genuine smile spreading across his face. "Hey yourself," he replies, reaching out to squeeze your hand. "I feel like I haven't seen you in days."

You raise an eyebrow, a teasing glint in your eye. "Oh really? And here I thought you might be avoiding me. Have you perhaps developed an aversion to your lovely wife?"

Your tone is light, but there's a genuine curiosity beneath the playfulness.

Steve chuckles, but you catch a flicker of something—nervousness?—in his eyes. "Avoiding you? Never. How could I possibly want to avoid the most captivating woman in the world?" He brings your hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to your knuckles.

You narrow your eyes and try to ignore the flutter in your stomach at his affection, not quite buying his charm offensive at face value. "Mmm-hmm. So if you're not avoiding me, perhaps you're avoiding someone else? Someone who happens to be my mother?"

Steve's smile falters slightly, and he lets out a small sigh. "Is it that obvious?"

You give him a knowing look.

He runs a hand over his beard. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be so transparent. It's just your mother clearly doesn't approve of me, or of our relationship, and I guess I've been trying to avoid giving her more ammunition."

You feel a pang of sympathy for Steve. Your mother's disapproval has been weighing on you too, but you hadn't realized how much it was getting to Steve - your confident husband, the man who seems so fearless and unflagging.

"Steve, I've seen you face down hostile reporters and debate seasoned politicians without breaking a sweat. Hell, you battled Thanos and his legions twice. But every time my mom enters the room, you suddenly have an urgent phone call or meeting to attend."

“Thanos was nothing to your mother.”

You scoff, playing up being very affronted. “Are you really saying my mom is scarier than Thanos?”

He laughs. “Yeah, in a way. I only needed to defeat him, not get on his good side.”

You better angle your body to him, and pull his hand into your lap, holding it in both of yours. You can see he’s thinking, so you keep quiet and let him speak.

“I've been feeling a bit out of my depth with your mom. I know how important she is to you, and I want her to like me, but I can't shake the feeling that she's judging my every move."

You nod, understanding dawning. "She can be a bit intense. She's always been protective of me. And our sudden marriage didn't do anything to ease any potential concerns. I don’t know if she would have been more accepting of the arrangement if I’d handled it differently because… well, it was what it was, but…”

You sigh.

“She was very alarmed over how quickly everything happened, and so I did tell her it was a marriage of political strategy and convenience just before the ceremony. I was trying to reassure her that there was no pressure, nothing to be concerned about, but it didn’t make her any happier, just shifted the nature of her concerns.”

Steve looks at you, his expression a mix of surprise and understanding. "I see. That explains a lot."

You nod, feeling a twinge of guilt. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you about that conversation earlier. When it happened, we weren’t really…”

He shakes his head. “Don’t apologize for that. I didn’t foster any real, deeper connection in the beginning.”

“…and then things between us changed so quickly," you continued.

Steve squeezes your hand reassuringly. "Again, no need to apologize. I understand. And you're right, things did change fast between us. I still can't believe how lucky I am."

His words warm your heart, but you can still see the worry in his eyes. "Steve, my mom's opinion is important to me, but it doesn't change how I feel about you. We're in this together, remember?"

He nods, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Together. I like the sound of that. More and more every time we say it.”

“Me, too,” you reply.

Suddenly the rumbling of the bus and the chatter of staff members fades away.

Steve's eyes soften as he gazes at you, his thumb gently caressing the back of your hand. The late afternoon sunlight streaming through the bus windows bathes him in a warm glow, highlighting the flecks of green in his blue eyes and the gentle curve of his lips. You feel a familiar flutter in your chest, a mix of affection and desire that seems to grow stronger with each passing day.

As if drawn by an invisible force, Steve leans forward, his free hand coming up to cup your cheek. His touch is feather-light, reverent, as if he's still amazed that he's allowed to touch you like this. You find yourself leaning into his touch, your eyes fluttering closed as his lips meet yours.

The kiss starts soft, a gentle press of lips, but quickly deepens as Steve pulls you closer. His beard tickles your skin, a sensation that never fails to send shivers through you.

Steve's lips move against yours with a tenderness that ignites sparks beneath your skin. His hand slides from your cheek to the nape of your neck, and he pulls you closer. The warmth of his body seeps into yours, a comforting heat that makes you feel safe and cherished.

You taste a hint of coffee on his breath, mingled with the spearmint of his favorite gum. The scent of his cologne envelops you, now so familiar and intoxicating. Your free hand hands finds its way to his chest, feeling the steady thrum of his heartbeat beneath your palm.

The kiss is intense yet affectionate, a perfect balance of passion and emotion. Steve's lips move against yours with a reverence that makes your heart swell, and you find yourself wanting more, but remember where you are.

You break off the kiss, but you want to stay close and so rest your forehead against his, both of you breathing a little heavier. The world around you slowly comes back into focus - the rumble of the bus engine, the murmur of conversations from campaign staff, the whir of laptops. But for a moment longer, you stay in this intimate bubble, savoring the closeness.

You reach up, running your fingers along his jawline, feeling the soft bristles of his beard against your skin. Steve leans into your touch, a contented sigh escaping his lips. You're struck by how vulnerable and real he is in this moment - so different from the candidate the public sees.

"Steve," you say finally, causing his eyes to flutter open. "What do you think about having dinner with my mom tonight?”

Steve's eyes widen almost imperceptibly. "Dinner with your mom. Tonight."

You nod, your hand still resting on his cheek. “She flies home tomorrow.”

Steve nods, a determined look overtaking the apprehension from a moment before.

Steve nods, a determined look settling on his face. "So, what's the plan? Do we have time between events?"

You pull out your phone, quickly scanning the day's schedule. "We have a gap after the Denver Tech Center tour.”

"If your mother tries to throw me out a window, you have to promise to come to my aid."

You laugh, the tension broken. "Deal. Though I think even my mom would have trouble throwing Captain America out a window."

"You'd be surprised," Steve chuckles.

“Maybe Sam will loan the shield back to you,” you tease.

The shield isn’t borrowed, but you do rope Sam, Sophia, and Bucky into having dinner with you as well as your mother has grown incredibly fond of and friendly all of three of them over the past three days.

After you’ve ouly just ordered drinks, Sophia gets a message that the two of you need to step out of the restaurant to take an urgent call about some last-minute campaign trail changes. You catch Sam and Bucky exchanging a meaningful glance, and you try to give them a smile that conveys your appreciation that they’re serving as a buffer.

The matter - in your opinion - is really a non-issue, but Sophia says she thinks she better go consult with the logistics team, and you don’t argue when she’s that determined.

But it makes perfect sense when you step back inside the restaurant and take in the scene before you.

Sam and Bucky are standing in the waiting area, looking slightly sheepish, no sign of your mother or Steve.

"What's going on?" you ask pointedly.

Sam steps forward, his hands held up in a placating gesture. "Now, don't be mad. We thought Steve could use some alone time with your mom."

You feel your heart rate quicken. "You left Steve alone with my mother?"

Bucky nods, a small smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "He's faced down HYDRA and alien invasions. We figured he could handle one mother-in-law."

Sam adds, "Steve's been practicing what he wanted to say to your mom for days. Figured this was as good a time as any."

You're not sure whether to laugh or panic. "How long have they been alone?"

"About five minutes," Sam replies. "We figured we'd give them a few more. Or you two will - I’m going to join someone else for dinner.”

You smirk at him. “Enjoy your meal with Sophia.”

“Oh, I intend to,” he says, handing you an earpiece before walking away.

You stand there for a moment, torn between curiosity and concern. Part of you wants to rush back to the table and make sure everything is okay. But another part knows that Sam and Bucky are right - Steve and your mother need this time alone.

Bucky gently places a hand on your shoulder. "Hey, it'll be alright. Steve's got this."

You take a deep breath, nodding. "I know. I just hope she doesn’t swallow him up."

"If it helps, we can listen in," Bucky says with a mischievous grin, tapping his ear to indicate the communication device.

You roll your eyes but can't help the small smile tugging at your lips. Curiosity getting the better of you, you put the earpiece in, Bucky doing the same with his own.

"Okay, just for a minute," you concede, putting the earpiece in.

Steve's voice comes through, clear and steady. "I know our relationship moved quickly, and I understand your concerns."

Your mother's voice follows, her tone measured. "Do you?”

“I know it looks like I swept your daughter into a whirlwind marriage agreement and a high-pressure political campaign. And that is where it all started, but we’re so far beyond that now. It’s become so much more."

"I do know that. And I believe it it, too. I’ve been watching you, you know. Long before I got here, and then of course this week. And I’m perceptive."

Steve pauses, his voice thoughtful when he speaks again. "But you still have reservations about me, don't you?"

There's a moment of silence, and you can almost picture your mother's expression - that slight furrow in her brow she gets when she's carefully considering her words.

"I do," she admits finally, her voice soft but firm. "And I'm trying not to, Steve. I really am."

You hear the clink of glasses, the soft rustle of fabric as someone - probably your mother - shifts in their seat.

"I see the way you look at my daughter," your mother continues. "The way your eyes light up when she enters a room, how you lean towards her when she speaks. I see the gentle touches, the silent conversations you have with just a glance. It's... it's beautiful, really."

Steve's voice is warm when he responds. "She's incredible. But those reservations… I'd like to understand them, if you're willing to share."

Your mother sighs. "It's not just one thing, Steve. It's... well, it's everything. Your past, your public persona, this campaign. I look at you, and I see a man who's lived multiple lifetimes, who's seen and done things I can't even imagine. You've saved the world, for goodness' sake. And my daughter... she's brilliant and strong, but she's also young."

You hear Steve take a deep breath before responding. "I understand those concerns. They're concerns I've had myself. But your daughter, as it turns out, is one of the strongest people I know. She challenges me, supports me, grounds me in ways I never expected. She makes me want to be a better man, a better leader."

There's a pause, and you can almost picture Steve leaning forward, his eyes earnest as he continues. "I know I have a complicated past, and yes, a lot of responsibility. But your daughter isn't overshadowed by that - she shines even brighter alongside it. She's not just along for the ride in this campaign or in our life together. She's my partner in every sense of the word.”

Your mother's voice softens slightly as she responds. "I can see that. I've watched her these past few days, how she's grown into this role. She's always been capable, but now... now she's truly flourishing."

"She is," Steve agrees, warmth evident in his voice. "And I want you to know that I will always support her in that growth. Her dreams, her ambitions - they're just as important as mine."

There's another pause, and you can almost picture your mother nodding slowly, processing Steve's words.

"I appreciate everything you’v said, Steve," she says finally. "And I can see how much you care for my daughter. But I need you to understand something. My daughter - she's always been special. Always been driven to help others, to make a difference. But she's also had her heart broken before. She's been let down by life, everything turned upside down by The Blip."

You feel a pang in your chest at your mother's words, memories of past hurts flashing through your mind.

Your mother's voice becomes softer, more vulnerable. "And I couldn't fix any of that. As her mother, that cut like a knife, and I think... I think I never really took that knife out. I've been carrying it with me, this fear of seeing her hurt again."

You hear her take a shaky breath before continuing. "When she told me about your arrangement, about this whirlwind marriage and campaign, all I could think was, 'Here's another way for her to get hurt.' I was so afraid for her."

There's a pause, and you can almost picture your mother's eyes glistening with unshed tears. "But this week... this week has been eye-opening. I've seen her in her element, passionate and driven. I've watched her tackle complex issues with grace and determination. And I've seen how you two show up for each other. I worried it was all for the public, but I know now it’s not.”

"It’s not," Steve says, his response immediate and resolute. "And I want you to know that I take my commitment to your daughter very seriously. I know I can't promise that she'll never be hurt - life doesn't work that way. But I can promise that I will always be there for her, to support her, to lift her up when she needs it, and to celebrate her successes."

You hear your mother take a deep breath. "I can see that, Steve. I really can. And I... I'm sorry if I've been hard on you. I just want to protect her."

“Then we have that in common.”

“We do,” she agrees. “Just give me time. I always loved Jeff, her first husband, but I can see that we could get there, too, Steve.”

Bucky hands you a handkerchief, his metal arm glinting softly in the warm light of the restaurant's entryway. You hadn't even realized you were crying until you feel the soft cotton against your fingertips. You take it gratefully, dabbing at your eyes as you try to compose yourself.

Bucky's metal arm comes to rest around your shoulders, the weight of it comforting and grounding. You lean into him slightly, grateful for the support as you process the emotional exchange you've just witnessed.

[OCTOBER 16 - DENVER AIRPORT]

The Denver International Airport bustles with activity around you, a cacophony of rolling suitcases, muffled announcements, and hurried conversations. Yet in this moment, your focus narrows to your mother standing before you, her carry-on bag at her feet and a bittersweet smile on her face.

"I'm so glad you came, Mom," you say, your voice thick with emotion. The past few days have been another slew of organized campaign chaos, but having your mother here had been a development you didn’t realize you needed.

She reaches out, cupping your face in her hands, her eyes shining with emotion. "Oh, sweetheart. I'm glad I came too. More than you know."

It was good for you, for her, for repairing pieces of your relationship you knew were strained and things you didn’t.

You lean into her touch, feeling for a moment like a little girl again, safe in your mother's embrace, and her strength as your mother had been the thing you needed most from her.

"I'm so proud of you," your mother says, her voice soft but full of conviction. "The work you're doing, the person you've become... it's more than I knew to hope for - a true new chapter for you."

You feel a lump forming in your throat, overwhelmed by her words. "Thank you, Mom. That means so much to me."

She pulls you into a tight hug, and you breathe in the familiar scent of her perfume, a comforting mix of jasmine and vanilla that instantly transports you back to your childhood home.

As you pull apart, your mother's eyes drift over your shoulder, and her expression softens further. You turn to see Steve approaching, a gentle smile on his face.

"I hope I'm not interrupting," he says, coming to stand beside you.

Your mother shakes her head. "Not at all, Steve. I'm glad you're here."

Steve's smile widens as he reaches out to shake your mother's hand. To your surprise, she pulls him into a warm hug instead.

"Take care of my daughter," she says softly, but loud enough for you to hear.

You smile and shake your head.

"Always," Steve replies, his voice filled with sincerity.

As they part, your mother looks between the two of you. "And you two take care of each other. What you're doing is important. Don't lose sight of that, but don't lose sight of each other either."

You nod, feeling Steve's hand come to rest on the small of your back as you reply, "We won't, Mom. I promise."

An announcement over the airport speakers breaks the moment, reminding passengers of the TSA safety checkpoint instructions.

"I better go," she says with a sigh. She picks up her carry-on bag. “Tell Pepper - I assume - thanks for the first-class flight. Of course, I’m ruined now, but it’s worth it.”

The two of you wave and watch her for a moment. It’s early enough there aren’t many people around to take notice of you and Steve.

“Thanks for asking her to come, Steve,” you say.

“I’m glad I did, too.”

“Even with as scary as it was for Captain America to meet his wife’s mom?” you giggle.

He quiets you with a resolute kiss on the mouth that melts away your early morning sass.

But it’s too brief for your liking.

He reaches for your hand as he pulls away. “We better go before we miss our flight,” he says, tugging you along.

You scoff, falling into step beside him. “Because the campaign plane would definitely lift off without its presidential candidate on board.”

He laughs, “Don’t put it past Bucky or Sam to convince them I am there and try to get them to leave without me.”

next part: coming 2/14

Y'all have been waiting a long time on this chapter, and I apologize for that break, but now it's here - and I'm ultimately happy with where it landed. And we're getting close to the end!

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[bucks-and-noble]

Add yourself to my taglists!

I've created a google form that includes all of my au's and characters i write for/will write for, so check it out if you want to be added!

here is the link <3

[bucks-and-noble]

Smashed to Pieces

Characters/Pairings: Lloyd Hansen x curvy Millennial female!Reader, background Nick Fowler x Reader Word Count: 1.8k Summary: You never wanted this, and you have no choice but to endure the nightmare of your circumstance at the hand of such a dangerous man. DIRECT SEQUEL TO SMASHED PUMPKIN

Content/Warnings: NON-CONSENT/RAPE; use of pet name: pumpkin; kidnapping; explicit smut: vaginal fingering, vaginal intercourse, clit play, groping, forced orgasm, unprotected sex and ejaculation, cockwarming; exhibitionism/taunting over the phone; dirty talk; mild degradation

Notes: Remember last October when I wrote three drabbles the same way (soft, soft!dark, and dark)? Nobody asked for this - at least not for this to happen next - but here it is anyway.

Additional Note: Consider this the bitter dark chocolate of the Valentine Storygrams.

Previous Part | Welcome Home, Pumpkin colllection

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The journey is long and terrifying. You're disoriented in the darkness of the trunk, every bump and turn making you nauseous. Your mind races with fear and despair, replaying the horrific events of the past few hours over and over.

Finally, the vehicle stops. The trunk opens and Lloyd's leering face appears. "Welcome to your new home, Pumpkin."

Two men roughly pull you out. You stumble, legs weak from being curled up for so long. Lloyd catches you, his touch making your skin crawl.

"Easy there," he murmurs, but there's no real concern in his voice.

You're led into a sprawling compound - all sleek lines and modern architecture. Under different circumstances, you might have found it impressive. Now, it just fills you with dread.

Lloyd guides you through winding hallways to a luxurious office. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, their snow-capped peaks glowing in the fading sunlight. The room is decorated in rich mahogany and leather, exuding power and wealth.

"Have a seat," Lloyd says, gesturing to an imposing leather chair behind an enormous desk.

You hesitate, confused, until he sits down first and pats his lap expectantly. Your stomach churns as you realize what he wants.

"Don't make me ask twice," he warns, voice low and dangerous.

Swallowing back bile, you gingerly lower yourself onto his lap. Lloyd immediately wraps an arm around your waist, pulling you flush against his chest. His other hand comes to rest possessively on your thigh, fingers tracing idle patterns on your bare skin.

"Now then," he says, his breath hot against your ear. "Let's give your husband a call, shall we?"

Your heart races as Lloyd pulls out his phone. He dials a number, putting it on speaker.

After several rings, Nick's worried voice comes through. "Hello? Who is this?"

"Nick, my old friend," Lloyd drawls. "It's been too long."

There's a sharp intake of breath on the other end. "Lloyd," Nick growls. "Where is she? What have you done with my wife?"

"Oh, she's right here with me," Lloyd says, his hand sliding higher up your thigh. "Say hello to your husband, Pumpkin."

He plunges his fingers roughly into your pussy, and you gasp at the sudden intrusion, unable to hold back a small whimper. "Nick," you manage to choke out, your voice trembling.

"Oh God," Nick's anguished voice comes through the speaker. "What are you doing to her, you bastard?"

Lloyd chuckles darkly, his fingers still working inside you. "Just getting reacquainted with your lovely wife. She's quite responsive, you know. I can see why you're so fond of her."

"Stop it!" Nick shouts. "Let her go, Lloyd. This is between you and me."

"Oh, but that's where you're wrong," Lloyd purrs. His thumb finds your clit, circling it slowly. You bite your lip, trying desperately not to react. "Your wife is very much a part of this now."

You squirm in Lloyd's lap, trying to escape his touch.

Nick’s response over the line is immediate. "If you've touched her, I swear to God—"

"Oh, I've done much more than touch her already, and I’m touching her now,” Lloyd taunts, his voice dripping with malice.

Lloyd's hand slides up your back, pushing you forward onto the desk. The cold mahogany presses against your bare skin as he spreads your legs wider. You hear the telltale sound of a zipper behind you, and your heart races. "No, please," you whimper, but your pleas fall on deaf ears.

Lloyd's large hands grip your hips, pulling you back slightly. You feel the blunt head of his cock pressing against your entrance. In one swift motion, he thrusts inside you, burying himself to the hilt.

A strangled cry escapes your lips at the sudden intrusion. Lloyd groans in satisfaction, his fingers digging painfully into your flesh. He pulls you back onto his lap as he sits in his leather chair again, impaling you on his cock.

Nick's anguished voice comes through the speaker. "Stop it, Lloyd! I'll do anything, just let her go!"

He’s usually so cool, calm, and collected, so hearing your husband so strung out makes this all feel so much worse.

Lloyd chuckles darkly, his hips starting to move beneath you. "Oh Nick, you still don't understand. This isn't a negotiation. This is punishment."

You whimper as Lloyd begins to bounce you on his lap, his thick cock sliding in and out of you. The phone sits on the desk, broadcasting every sound to your distraught husband.

"Please," you sob, tears streaming down your face. "Nick, I'm so sorry."

"Shh, it's not your fault, baby," Nick's voice is choked with emotion. "I'm going to find you, I promise."

Lloyd's pace quickens, his breathing becoming ragged. "You hear that, Nick? The sounds your wife makes when she's being fucked by another man? Something you’ll hopefully remember until your last breath.”

As Lloyd plunges into you repeatedly, your body betrays you again, involuntarily responding to the familiar sensations despite your brain's protests. Your pussy grips him tightly, your juices flowing as he pounds into you relentlessly. You bite down on your bottom lip, trying to muffle the moans that threaten to escape your lips, hating yourself for the traitorous noises your body is making.

"Ah, Pumpkin," Lloyd grunts in your ear, "you're so damn tight and wet. I can see why Nick had to have you." His hand finds your clit and begins rubbing it roughly, in time with his thrusts. "Your husband will love this part," he chuckles darkly.

"Stop! Please stop!" you whimper, but Lloyd only laughs and adjusts your body slightly so he can push deeper inside of you.

His fingers work your clit mercilessly, forcing pleasure through you against your will. Lloyd's cruel laughter echoes through the room as he continues his relentless assault on your body.

"That's it, Pumpkin," he growls in your ear. "Let Nick hear how much you're enjoying this."

You try to hold back, and for the most part you do, but a strangled moan escapes your lips as your body betrays you once again. The sound of skin slapping against skin fills the air, punctuated by Lloyd's grunts and your involuntary whimpers.

"Lloyd," Nick's voice comes through the speaker, dark and rough and angry now. "Stop hurting her."

Lloyd's thrusts become more forceful. "Oh, but she's not hurting, are you, Pumpkin? Tell your husband how good it feels."

You shake your head vehemently, refusing to say the words Lloyd wants. But your body betrays you as his fingers continue their assault on your clit. You feel the pressure building, your walls clenching around him involuntarily.

"No need to be shy," Lloyd taunts, his fingers working your clit faster. "Your body is speaking for you."

A wave of shame washes over you as you feel yourself hurtling toward another unwanted orgasm. You try to fight it, but Lloyd seems determined to wring every ounce of pleasure from your traitorous body.

"That's it," he growls. "Come for me. Let Nick hear you fall apart."

Your muscles tense as the pressure builds. With a strangled cry, you shatter, your body convulsing as waves of pleasure crash over you. Lloyd groans, his hips stuttering as he follows you over the edge, spilling himself deep inside you. The sound of your ragged breathing and Lloyd's satisfied groan fills the air.

As the aftershocks subside, you slump forward onto the desk, utterly spent and wracked with shame tears streaming down your face. Lloyd's cruel laughter rings in your ears as he pulls out of you.

"Well, Nick," Lloyd pants, still buried inside you, "I hope you enjoyed the show. Your wife certainly did."

The shame and humiliation wash over you in waves, knowing that Nick heard everything. You can’t form words, wouldn’t know what to say to your husband if you could.

"I'm going to kill you," Nick's voice is low and dangerous through the speaker. "I swear to God, Lloyd, I will hunt you down and end you for this."

Lloyd chuckles. "I look forward to it, old friend. In the meantime, I'll take good care of your lovely wife."

With that, he ends the call, leaving you trembling and violated on his desk. Lloyd runs a hand down your spine, then smacks your ass, and you yelp.

“I’ve got some work to catch up on now after being out of the office - you know how it is - evil plots and schemes to return some emails about, some calls I’ve got to take.”

Lloyd pulls you back into his lap, his softening cock still inside you. You whimper as the movement causes him to shift within you.

"Now, now," he chides, "don't fuss. You're going to keep me company while I work."

He adjusts you on his lap, spreading your legs wider over his thighs. The position leaves you completely exposed, vulnerable. Lloyd's hands roam your body possessively as he settles back in his chair.

"Perfect," he murmurs, nuzzling your neck. "A pretty little cockwarmer to keep me motivated."

You shudder as he reaches for his laptop, opening it on the desk in front of you. The screen illuminates your tear-stained face, and you quickly avert your eyes. The click of keys fills the air as he begins to type, acting for all the world as if this is perfectly normal.

Lloyd’s cock begins to harden again inside you as he works. His hands roam your body periodically, kneading your stomach, hips, and thighs, occasionally squeezing your breasts or pinching your nipples. You try to stay still, but every movement causes his cock to shift inside you, sending unwanted sparks of through your overwrought body.

Time seems to stretch endlessly as you remain impaled on Lloyd's lap. The sun sets outside the large windows, casting long shadows across the office. Lloyd works steadily, occasionally murmuring into his phone or typing rapidly on his laptop. All the while, his hands continue to roam your body possessively.

You drift in and out of awareness, exhaustion and trauma taking their toll. Whenever you start to doze off, Lloyd pinches or squeezes you sharply, jolting you awake.

"Stay with me, Pumpkin," he purrs in your ear. "I'm not done with you yet."

After what feels like hours, Lloyd finally closes his laptop with a satisfied sigh. "Well, that's enough work for one day, I think. Time for some pleasure."

Your body tenses as his hands grip your hips, lifting you slightly before slamming you back down on his now fully erect cock. You cry out at the sudden intrusion, your oversensitive flesh protesting the rough treatment.

"Please," you whimper, "no more. I can't take it."

Lloyd chuckles darkly, his breath hot against your ear. "Oh, but you can. And you will."

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I do not do tag lists, but FOLLOW @buckets-and-stories and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS to be updated any time I publish a new work!

[bucks-and-noble]

Hi, doll, I was wondering if I could request a Steve Rogers x Reader in which the reader is the daughter of some-one Bucky killed and he say 'sorry' to her on Raynor's orders. It's awkward because Steve wants Bucky away from her. And Bucky ends up saying 'sorry' to her at one point.

I hope this makes sense. I just had this idea in my head.

Making Amends » Steve Rogers/Captain America and Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier

Pairings: Boyfriend!Steve Rogers x Girlfriend!Reader, Bucky Barnes x Female Reader

Summary: Bucky tries to make amends with you for what he did as the Winter Soldier, but Steve wants Bucky to stay away from you and he ends up apologizing to you at some point.

Warnings: Angst, Fluff, language, mentions of HYDRA, mentions of murder, nightmares, flashbacks, slapping (once), crying, kissing, pet names

A/N: Thank you for the request @disneyprincessbuffyannesummers 🩵

A/N #2: Italic text is nightmares and flashbacks.

Written on my phone. My apologies for any mistakes.

Header made by @buck-star

GIFS ARE NOT MINE! Gif credits go to the creators.

“I made amends with almost everyone.” Bucky tells Dr. Raynor.

“Everyone, including Y/N?” Dr. Raynor says.

Bucky cleared his throat and shifted in his seat. He looked down at his lap, fiddling with his gloved fingers.

“I’m taking that as a no.” She says, writing it down in her notebook.

Bucky rolled his eyes when she started writing in her notebook.

“Does Steve know?” She asks.

“Does my best friend know that I killed his girlfriend’s parents when I was under HYDRA’s control? Yes, he does know.” He says.

The horrible memories of what he did to your parents constantly flashes through his mind. The horrific scream he heard when you saw him and the blood of your dead parents.

You opened the door to your house, only to find it kicked in. You cautiously walked in the house.

“Mom? Dad?” You say.

You found boot prints leading to the dining room. You followed each one, finding a man with a metal arm, wearing tactical gear, and had guns and knives. Your eyes widened when you saw your parents laying on the floor… dead in the pool of their own blood. You screamed, startling the man. He spun around, only to see a horrified teenage girl with tears streaming down your face. You quickly recognized him as the Winter Soldier, due to the red star on the shoulder of his metal arm. Usually, he kills any witnesses during missions, but this time, he didn’t. He bolted out of the house, leaving you alone with your dead parents on the dining room floor.

“James?” Dr. Raynor snapped her fingers, pulling Bucky from that horrific memory. “You still here?” She asks.

“Y-Yes.” Bucky says, clearing his throat again.

“You were thinking about Y/N’s parents again, weren’t you?” She says.

Bucky nodded.

“Make amends with her.” She says.

“How? She won’t even talk to me, let alone look at me.” He says.

“Try everything you can think of.” She says.

Bucky sighs and nods again. He wishes that he can just walk up to you and apologize for what he did, but it’s harder than it looks.

Bucky walks in the Avengers compound with his hands in his jacket pockets. He seen Steve. He’s just hoping you’re there too.

“Hey Steve. Is Y/N here?” Bucky asks.

“Yes, but you know she hates you.” Steve says.

“I know.” He sighs. “I want to talk to her.” He says.

You walked in the room, freezing when you seen Bucky talking to Steve. He seen you and Steve turned around.

“Y/N, I-” You walked past him before he could say anything else.

Bucky followed you and so did Steve.

“Y/N, I want to apologize.” He says.

Bucky put his hand on your shoulder to get you to stop walking. You stopped in your tracks and turned around, smacking him across his face.

“I don’t want to hear a god damn word from you! What you did is unforgivable. Just because you’re best friends with my boyfriend, doesn’t mean you and I are friends.” You say, your eyes tearing up.

Bucky didn’t dare to say anything. He just nodded and watched you leave the compound.

“I was doing what Dr. Raynor told me to do.” Bucky says.

“I understand that, but I think it’s best that you stay away from Y/N.” Steve says.

“Ok.” He whispers.

Bucky doesn’t want to upset you anymore than you already are so he’ll keep his distance for now. He just needs to think of a way to talk to you so he can apologize.

He waited a couple days before apologizing to you again. He went to yours and Steve’s apartment, hoping that you’re home. He knocked on the door and patiently waited for you to open it. Instead of you opening the door, Steve did.

“Is Y/N home?” Bucky asks.

“Not yet.” Steve answers. “I told you to stay away from her.” He says.

“I know, but she’s the last person I need to make amends with.” He says.

“I don’t know what to tell you, Buck. She hates you enough as it is and she doesn’t want to hear anything you have to say.” He says.

Bucky looks down and sighs sadly. He just left instead of fighting his best friend about apologizing to you. He so desperately wants to make amends with you. That’s all he wants to do. He hates that he put you through this. Bucky heard the elevator ding. He looked up to see you getting off of it. He opened his mouth to say something to you, but you held your hand up before he could say anything to you.

“What part of me hating you and not wanting to talking to you, do you not understand?” You say.

“I’m just doing what Dr. Raynor told me to do. I made amends with everyone else. I need to make amends with you.” Bucky says.

“I don’t give a fuck about what she told you to do! I can’t make amends with someone who killed my parents!” You say.

You walked past him, going straight for yours and Steve’s apartment. You opened the door and slammed it behind you. You leaned against the door and started crying. Steve wrapped his arms around you before your legs gave out under you. Now, Bucky has to tell Dr. Raynor tomorrow during his therapy session that he’s made no progress on making amends with you. He laid awake most of the night and stared up at the ceiling, thinking about what he did to your parents. Meanwhile, you were tossing and turning from a recurring nightmare you’ve been having for years.

“Sweetheart.” Steve whispers, gently shaking you. “You’re having that nightmare again.” He says.

You woke up and quickly sat up, tears streaming down your face and your breathing uneven. Steve wrapped his arms around you and pulled you onto his lap.

“I know Bucky is your best friend, but I hate him.” You say.

Steve rubbed your back and listened to what you were saying.

The following day, Bucky went to his therapy session with no progress on making amends with you.

“Did you make amends with Y/N?” Dr. Raynor asks.

“No.” Bucky answers. “I tried, but Steve told me to stay away from her.” He says.

“Ok.” She closed her notebook. “Text Steve and tell him to bring Y/N here.” She says.

Bucky took his phone out of his pocket and texted Steve. Steve texted back, telling him he’s on his way with you.

“Who texted you?” You asked curiously.

“Bucky.” He says.

“What does he want?” You mumbled.

“He said Dr. Raynor wants to talk to you.” He says.

“Why? I don’t need therapy.” You say.

“No one is saying you do, honey. Let’s go to see what she has to say.” He says.

“Fine.” You mumbled.

After a while, you and Steve got to Dr. Raynor’s office. You should’ve known what you were walking into when you seen Bucky.

“No.” You said.

“Just sit down and listen to him.” Dr. Raynor says.

You stared at Bucky silently, narrowing your eyes at him.

“Fine.” You mumbled.

“I’ll be in the waiting room.” Steve says, pecking your lips softly.

You sat down on the couch next to Bucky and waited for him to say what he needs to say.

“I am so sorry about what I did as the Winter Soldier. I was given a mission and I did it. You weren’t supposed to be there.” Bucky begins.

“Except I was there. Do you want to know how horrifying it is to come home from school to find your parents dead in the dining room and the person who killed them? That day has been haunting me for years.” You say, your eyes tearing up.

“It’s been haunting me too.” He admits. “If I would’ve known they had a kid, I wouldn’t have gone through with the mission.” He says.

“You didn’t see the pictures on the walls?” You asked sarcastically.

Bucky shook his head no.

“Thanks to you, I had no one. You took my parents from me. I was lonely for years until I met Steve. I don’t think I’ll ever forgive you and I don’t think I can see us being friends.” You say with tears rolling down your cheeks.

Bucky wasn’t sure what to say next in his apology. He hit a roadblock.

“Can I go now?” You asked Dr. Raynor.

“Yes.” She replies. “So can you, James.” She says.

You stormed out of the room with tears on your face.

“I want to go home.” You say, walking past Steve.

Steve stood up and looked at Bucky as he walked out of Dr. Raynor’s office.

“What did you say to her?” Steve asks.

“All I did was apologize.” Bucky says.

“Whatever you said made her even more upset than she already is.” He says.

You were quiet for the rest of the day. That night, you were staring at the wall in the dark. There was something about Bucky’s apology that you were curious about. You assumed your dad had some kind of involvement with HYDRA, but what did your mom do? She had nothing to do with HYDRA. She was just a woman who was married, had a daughter, and a job. You wanted more answers so you grabbed your phone and texted Bucky.

You: Are you awake?

Bucky: I am now. What’s up?

You: Can you come over please? I want to talk to you. It’s important

Bucky: I’m on my way

You shut your phone off and quietly slipped out from Steve’s hold on you without waking him up. You went to the kitchen and made coffee while you waited for Bucky. It didn’t take long for him to get to yours and Steve’s apartment since he lives a few minutes away. Bucky texted you that he’s there so he didn’t accidentally wake Steve up by knocking on the door or ringing the doorbell.

“Come in.” You stepped aside after opening the door. “I made coffee. Do you want some.” You asked.

“Yes please.” Bucky smiles.

Bucky went to the living room and sat down on the couch while you went to the kitchen to get you and him coffee. You came back with two cups and gave him one.

“You said you wanted to talk about something important?” Bucky says, taking a sip of his coffee.

“It’s about the day you- the Winter Soldier killed my parents.” You say.

Bucky froze in his seat.

“I knew my dad had some kind of involvement with HYDRA, but I don’t know what it was. I was hoping you would know.” You say.

“He was a scientist for HYDRA who worked on the Super Soldier serum. He had files of the serum HYDRA wanted back so I was sent to kill- take care of him and get the files back.” He explains.

“What was my mom’s involvement?” You asked.

“She had no involvement with HYDRA.” He says.

“Then why did you kill her?” You asked, your eyes tearing up.

“I was told to kill any witnesses.” He says.

“Why not me?” You asked in a shaky voice. “I was a witness.” You say.

“I couldn’t bring myself to do it. Besides, you were just a kid.” He says, his voice cracking.

Bucky heard your breathing become uneven and seen your bottom lip quivering. You couldn’t stop the tears from rolling down your cheeks.

“You know…” You sniffled. “After hearing what you just said, I feel a weight lifted off my chest. I finally got the answers I wanted.” You say.

You were full blown crying now. Bucky wasn’t sure if he should hug you or not.

“I am so sorry for what I did as the Winter Soldier. You didn’t deserve any of that. If I could go back in time and change it, I would.” Bucky says, tearing a rolling down his cheeks.

You put yours and his coffee cups on the coffee table before hugging him. Bucky was caught by surprise, but he hugged you back.

“I’m sorry.” He apologizes again.

“I know you are.” You whispered.

“I’ll spend the rest of my life earning your forgiveness.” He says.

“You don’t have to do that. I forgive you.” You say softly.

Bucky was taken back. He looked at you with a confused look on your face.

“You forgive me?” He asks, making sure he heard you right.

“Yes.” You replied. “After hearing your explanation, I now understand that you weren’t under your own control.” You say.

“But I still did it.” He says.

“It wasn’t you. It was HYDRA.” You say.

You hugged him again. Bucky felt a new warmth in his heart.

“I’m willing to give friendship a chance if you are.” You say.

“I’d like that, doll.” Bucky whispers and smiles.

You smiled and kissed his cheek. You two ended up dozing off a moment later.

A few hours later, Steve woke up to feel your side of the bed cold. He lifted his head and frown when you weren’t in bed. He rubbed his eyes and stretched before getting out of bed. He seen two coffee cups on the coffee table and then seen you and Bucky fast asleep on the couch, your legs across Bucky’s lap and a throw blanket draped over the two of you.

“Sweetheart. Bucky.” Steve whispers, gently shaking the two of you awake.

You and Bucky stirred in your sleep before waking up.

“Good morning, Stevie.” You smiled, standing up to give him a morning kiss.

“Good morning, honey.” He kisses you back. “When did you get here?” He asks Bucky.

“Around 1:45am.” Bucky answers, rubbing his eyes. “Y/N texted me to come over and talk.” He says.

“I got the answers I’ve been wanting for years. I accepted Bucky’s apology and forgave him. Him and I are friends now.” You tell Steve with a smile.

Steve rose his eyebrows in surprise. He didn’t think you would forgive Bucky for what he did.

“Really?” Steve asks, looking from you to Bucky.

“Yep!” Bucky smiles.

“Well, I’m happy you got the answers you wanted, sweetheart and I’m happy that my two favorite people are friends now.” He says with a smile.

You tugged on Bucky’s vibranium arm to get him to stand up. He stood up and you gave him a hug. Steve smiles at the two of you, happy that his best friend and his girlfriend are finally getting along.

“Do you like pancakes?” You asked, looking up at Bucky.

“I fucking love pancakes.” Bucky says with a smile.

“I love pancakes too.” Steve says, pulling you against him, making you giggle.

“That’s what we’re having for breakfast.” You say.

“Yes!” They say excitedly.

Overall, you’re happy that you finally got the answers you’ve been wanting for years. Bucky was more than willing to provide those answers.

🩵💙🩵💙🩵💙🩵💙🩵💙🩵💙🩵💙🩵💙🩵

-Bucky’s Doll

[bucks-and-noble]

Hi I really love your work. I think u would be an amazing writer. I had this idea in my head for a while and I was a bit hesitant to ask.

Could u write something where reader and bucky have a child ( 3 or 4 months old ) And they're just looking at them and admiring the little one. But the reader suddenly makes bucky promise that if their in a situation where they are captured and he needs to choose, bucky needs to pick the baby and leave her behind. They get into an argument Until he finally agrees thinking that day will never come.... but it does because Hydra wants to ruin his life. You can decide whether it's a happy ending or not. I hope its not too heavy.

Thank you and have a great day ahead!

Don’t Make Me Choose » Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier

Pairings: Husband/Dad/Avenger!Bucky Barnes x Wife/Mom!Reader with daughter Iris, Steve Rogers/Captain America, and the Avengers

Summary: If there was ever a situation where you and yours and Bucky’s daughter got captured, you want Bucky to choose yours and his daughter. Little do you guys know that it actually happens and he has to choose.

Warnings: Fluff, Angst, language, HYDRA, kidnapping, crying, nightmares, kissing, happy ending, pet names

A/N: Thank you for the request, nonnie🩵

A/N #2: Bold text is letter from HYDRA and Italic text is nightmares and flashbacks.

Written on my phone. My apologies for any mistakes.

Header made by @buck-star

GIF IS NOT MINE! Gif credit goes to the creator.

You and Bucky were sitting on the couch and making funny faces at yours and his 3 month old daughter Iris. It’s something you two do with her before she takes a nap and goes to bed. You two enjoy the sound of her little laugh. It warms yours and Bucky’s hearts.

“You think everything is funny, don’t you, sweetheart?” Bucky coos at Iris, softly booping her nose.

Iris giggled. She loves it when you two boop her nose. You carefully rose her toward you so you could shower her chubby cheeks with kisses. Bucky showered her with kisses as well. Then she yawned.

“Are you tired, sweetie?” You asked softly.

The second yawn confirmed it for you guys.

“Who do you want to put you to bed tonight? Me or daddy?” You asked.

Iris made a babbling noise and waved her arms towards Bucky. It’s pretty obvious that she’s a daddy’s girl. Bucky smiles and carefully took her from your arms.

“Let get you changed and warm.” He says, softly kissing the top of her head.

“Mama loves you.” You whispered to her, kissing her cheek.

While Bucky got Iris ready for bed, you got ready for bed too. You turned the TV on in the bedroom, putting it on a low volume.

“Me and mama love you so much, princess.” Bucky coos at Iris. “You’re the cutest baby ever.” He smiles, putting her pajamas on. “Now you’re all warm and cozy.” He kissed her forehead before putting her in her crib. “Goodnight, sweetheart. See you in the morning.” He whispers.

Bucky turned on her night light before walking out of her nursery, leaving the door cracked open. He went to yours and his bedroom to get ready for bed himself.

“She go to sleep easily?” You asked.

“Yep!” Bucky answers with a smile.

He got in bed next to you, getting under the blankets and wrapping his arms around you.

“Bucky?” You say softly, looking up at your husband.

“Yes, doll?” Bucky asks, looking down at you.

“If something were to happen to me and Iris, like if we were to get captured, I want you to choose Iris and leave me behind.” You tell him.

Bucky frowns when you said that.

“Where’s this coming from, doll?” He asks.

“I want you to choose Iris and leave me behind if her and I were to get kidnapped or something like that.” You repeated.

“I heard that.” Bucky sat up. “Why are you making me choose between you and our daughter? I can’t do that. I’ll choose both of you.” He says.

“You can’t choose both of us in a situation like that, Bucky.” You say, sitting up.

“Yes I can. It’s not that hard for me to choose both of you.” He says.

“But you can’t!” You say, raising your voice a bit.

“Don’t make me choose!” He says, also raising his voice a bit.

“It’s not that hard!” You say.

“It is actually! You’re telling me to choose between the two people I love the most in my life! I save both of you! You know I will!” He says.

You scoffed and shook your head. You laid down, facing away from Bucky. Bucky sighs rubbing his hands against his face.

“Ok, fine. I’ll choose Iris.” He finally says.

You turned back over and leaned up, softly pecking his lips.

“I just want our daughter to be safe.” You say softly.

“I want that too.” He whispers.

Bucky knows something like that isn’t going to happen… or so he thought.

A few days later, Bucky came home from the Avengers compound. He didn’t see your car in the driveway. He assumed you and Iris were still running errands. When he walked up to the door, there was a note taped to it. He grabbed it and read it.

Hello, Soldat. Long time no see, we noticed that you now have a wife and a baby now. If you want them back and want to see them alive, you know where to find them.

Bucky’s heart dropped to the pit of his stomach. That was enough to tell him that HYDRA kidnapped his wife and daughter. Also, the HYDRA logo was in the top left corner of the paper. Bucky immediately went back to the compound.

“Steve!” Bucky shouts frantically throughout the compound.

Steve walks out of the conference room, seeing his best friend is in a frantic state.

“What’s wrong, Buck?” Steve asks with concern in his voice.

“HYDRA has my wife and baby.” Bucky says, shoving the letter in his hand.

Steve read the letter, quickly recognizing HYDRA’s logo.

“I finally got my life together. I met the most amazing woman. We got married and had a baby, but HYDRA still wants to ruin my life!” Bucky says, his eyes tearing up.

“We’re going to get them back, Buck.” Steve assures softly.

“I can’t lose them.” He says, his voice cracking.

“You won’t.” He says.

You groaned when you felt your head pounding as you woke up. You squinted your eyes to adjust to the light in the room. You then heard the sound of Iris crying a few feet away from you. You looked up to see her strapped down to a metal table. Your eyes widened. You tried to get up to get her, but you quickly realized you were strapped down to a chair and couldn’t get to your crying baby.

“Iris, sweetie, mama is here. Just listen to my voice. Daddy, uncle Steve, and the rest of your aunts and uncles are coming to save us.” You say, trying to stay calm for your daughter.

You jumped at the sound of the door opening. A man in a white lab coat and a few people dressed in all black clothes entered the room.

“You’re awake!” The man in the lab coat says.

“What the hell do you want?!” You asked.

“It’s more like who we want.” He says.

You knew he was talking about Bucky, but you’re not going to give up your husband to the hands of HYDRA.

“I don’t know who you’re talking about.” You lied.

“Don’t play stupid. You know exactly who I’m talking about.” He says.

“I’m not playing stupid.” You say.

“So the name James Buchanan Barnes, the Winter Soldier doesn’t ring a bell to you?” He asks.

“Don’t fucking call him that!” You hissed.

“Oh so you do know him?” He says.

You stayed silent, not daring to say another word.

“Here’s what’s going to happen…” The man leaned toward you. “Either you tell us where your husband is or you watch something bad happen to your baby. I suggest you choose wisely.” He says in a threatening tone.

“You guys are stupid to think that I’m going to tell you anything about my husband’s whereabouts and if you do anything to my daughter, not only me, but my husband will kill all of you guys with our bare hands.” You say.

“It’s funny to think that you can protect your baby right now. You’re strapped down to a chair and can’t get free.” He says.

The man looked at one of the HYDRA agents, motioning him over to the metal table Iris is on with a head motion. The agent nodded and walked over to the table. You watched his every movement. Your eyes widened and your heart dropped to the pit of your stomach when he picked up a syringe with some kind of liquid in it.

“No! Please don’t hurt my daughter!” You shouted. “You guys can do anything you want to me! Please don’t hurt her!” You pleaded.

The HYDRA agent looked at the man in the lab coat. He motioned for him to come over to you, the syringe still in his hand. Your heart was pounding so hard that you thought it was going to burst through your chest. You yelped when the needle pricked your skin, the agent injecting you with whatever liquid was in the syringe. You didn’t know what it was. You were just hoping that it didn’t kill you.

“The side effects of this should kick in soon.” The man says.

As if it were on cue, Bucky kicked down the door with Steve by his side. Iris started crying loudly and the HYDRA agents held their guns at them.

“Soldat, it’s nice to see you again!” The man says.

“Give me my wife and baby!” Bucky demands.

“It’s-It’s ok, Bucky.” You managed to say, feeling the side effects of what they injected you with kicking in.

“What the hell did you do to her?!” He growls.

“We just gave her a new kind of serum to see what it’ll do.” The man says with a sinister grin on his face.

Bucky growls at the man before walking towards you. He got stopped when a gun got pointed at the back of his head. In that moment, he knew what he had to do.

“Steve, please get Iris and take her to the quinjet.” Bucky says as calmly as he could.

Steve nodded and did what Bucky told him to do. He unstrapped Iris from the table and exited the room, taking her to the quinjet.

“Doll…” He whispers.

“I’ll-I’ll be fine. Keep our daughter safe. I love you, Buck.” You say softly.

“I love you too. I’m sorry.” He says, a single tear rolling down his cheek.

A HYDRA agent guided Bucky out of the base. Bucky felt his heart shatter into a million pieces. Tears were streaming down his cheeks by the time he got on the quinjet. Steve gently put Iris in Bucky’s arms. Bucky held his daughter close to him.

“You didn’t get Y/N?” Steve asks.

“She told me to choose Iris over her if something like this happened.” Bucky tells him, his voice cracking.

“I’m sorry, man. We’ll try everything we can to get her back.” He says softly.

Bucky sniffled and nodded, trying his best to keep it together for his daughter. He’s trying to process how to possibly raise his daughter in a world without you.

A couple months later, the day of having to leave you behind haunts him. Iris grew since that day too. Bucky doesn’t leave the house anymore. His hair grew out and his beard is fuller. When he does, he only goes to the store to buy diapers, baby food, and other essentials. He gets little to no sleep. The only time he sleeps is when Iris is napping on his chest. Steve and the Avengers check up on Bucky and Iris.

“Buck, are you home?” Steve asks as he walks in the house with Sam.

They seen the state the house is in. Dirty dishes in the kitchen sink and a basket of laundry in the doorway to the laundry room. Steve and Sam heard Iris crying and followed it to yours and Bucky’s bedroom. Bucky was on the verge of falling apart as he tried to console his fussy daughter.

“You need a break, Buck.” Steve says.

“That’s hard for me to do right now, Steve!” Bucky says, raising his voice at him without realizing it.

Steve and Sam exchanged looks before Sam walked over to Bucky.

“I’ll calm Iris down.” Sam says.

“I know how to take care of my own baby, Sam.” Bucky says.

“I know you do. I just want to help you and Iris.” He says softly.

Bucky stared at Sam for a few seconds before carefully and gently putting Iris in his arms.

“Why are you all fussy, mini Barnes?” Sam coos at Iris as he walks out of the room.

Bucky fell back on the bed, his hands covering his face. Steve sat down next to him.

“You can’t keep living like this, man.” Steve says.

“What else am I supposed to do, Steve? HYDRA has my wife and I’m struggling with raising my daughter on my own. On top of all of that, the house is a mess and I don’t have time to clean it.” Bucky says.

“Don’t worry about the house. I’ll call the team and they’ll clean it up for you. You take a shower and relax.” He says.

Bucky stared at his best friend for a moment before sitting up.

“Ok.” He mumbles.

Steve gave Bucky a pat on the back. Bucky stood up and went to the bathroom to take a shower. Steve texted the Avengers, telling them to do what they can to help Bucky.

“How is he?” Sam asks as Steve walked in the living room.

“As you’d expect. He’s still beating himself up about Y/N and trying to not to breakdown in front of Iris.” Steve says.

Bucky put clean and comfortable clothes on after his shower. He caught a glimpse of the picture of you and him the day Iris was born. He smiles at it, but it faded away.

“I’ll-I’ll be fine. Keep our daughter safe. I love you, Buck.” You say softly.

Those words constantly echoed in his head. Bucky squeezed his eyes shut, tears rolling down his cheeks. Sobs left his lips. Steve, Sam, and the Avengers heard Bucky crying. Steve, who was holding Iris, gently handed her to the nearest Avenger, which was Peter. He softly knocked on the door before walking in the bedroom. It broke Steve’s heart to see his best friend like this. He sat down on the bed next to Bucky, giving him a shoulder to cry on, in which he did.

“Let it all out.” Steve whispers, rubbing Bucky’s back.

His crying continues for a few more minutes before he tried to gather himself. He then took a few deep breaths before wiping his tears away with his t-shirt.

“Who has Iris?” Bucky asks.

“Peter.” Steve tells him.

“Peter doesn’t know how to care of a baby.” He says.

“He’s learning how to right now.” He says.

Bucky stood up and walked out of the bedroom, going straight to the living room to see Peter making Iris laugh by making funny faces.

“Oh hi, Mr. Barnes.” Peter says.

“Hi, Peter. Can I have my daughter please?” Bucky says politely.

Peter nods and gently handed Iris to Bucky. He sat down on the couch, giving his daughter the well deserved attention she needs. Iris reached a hand up, grabbing onto his Army dog tags, making him smile.

“Bucky?” Natasha says, walking over to him with Clint.

“What?” Bucky asks, not taking his eyes off of his daughter.

“We found some leads on Y/N.” Clint informs him.

Bucky’s eyes went wide and his head shot up, looking at the two Avengers who are standing in front of him.

“What did you find?” Bucky asks.

“She’s being kept in a base somewhere not too far from where you found her and Iris.” Natasha tells him.

“We have to go get her!” He exclaims. “Iris needs her mom back and I need my wife back!” He says.

“I agree, but we need a plan before we attack, Buck.” Steve chimes in.

“My plan is attack and save the mother of my child. That’s the mission.” Bucky says.

Bucky knows one thing… HYDRA is never going to stop ruining his life. What he needs to do is fight back and get you back. Steve, Sam, and the Avengers know that too.

A few days later, Bucky came up with a full mission plan to save you with Steve’s, Sam’s, and the Avengers’ help. Peter’s aunt offered to babysit Iris.

“Daddy is going to get mama back. I’ll be home soon. I love you so much, princess.” Bucky whispers to Iris.

Iris made a babbling noise and put her hand on Bucky’s nose as a way of telling him that she loves him too, making him smile. Bucky gently and carefully put Iris in May’s arms.

“Iris is in good hands, Bucky.” May assures, putting a comforting hand on his shoulder.

Bucky smiles at her and nods. He took a deep breath and got on the quinjet. All he thought about is getting you back. All he hopes is that you’re alive. He was so deep in his thoughts that he didn’t hear Steve approach him.

“Buck?” Steve says, snapping him out of his thoughts.

“Hmm?” Bucky hums.

“We’re 5 minutes out.” He informs him.

Bucky nods and gets his gun and knives ready. When they landed at the base, Bucky was the first to get off the quinjet. He kicked down the door with one kick and marched his way inside of the base with Steve behind him. The rest of the Avengers spread out and went different ways. Everyone checked everywhere in the base, looking for you.

“What do you two think you’re doing here?” Bucky hears a familiar voice from a couple months ago.

Bucky turns around and sees the man who injected you with some kind of serum a couple months ago. His jaw clenched. Bucky grabs the man by his lab coat and slammed him against the wall. The man smirks to himself, remembering Bucky very well.

“Nice to see you again, Soldat.” The man says.

“Where’s my wife?!” Bucky growls.

“Let me see…” He pretended to think about it. “Even if I knew, I wouldn’t tell you guys.” He says.

Bucky got his gun out the hostler, cocking it and pressed it against his forehead.

“Tell me where she is or I swear I’ll kill you.” Bucky growls.

“I don’t think your wife would want you to turn back into your old ways, Soldat.” He says.

“Tell us where his wife is or he might actually kill you.” Steve says.

That’s when Bucky and Steve heard faint pounding against a door from down the hall. Bucky had a strong feeling that it was you. He knocked the man out with his gun and threw him to the ground. He ran down the hall to the door.

“Doll?” Bucky says with hopefulness in his voice.

“Bucky?” You say weakly.

Bucky broke the doorknob off the door and opened it. He seen you laying on the floor. He crouched down next to you.

“Doll, stay with me.” He says softly, gently tapping your cheek.

“Bucky?” You barely mumbled. “I want to go home.” You mumbled again.

“That’s where I’m taking you.” He says.

Bucky picked you up bridal style and carried you to the quinjet. Steve informed the Avengers that they found you. Bucky held you close to him and whispered nothing but sweet words to you. You were taken to the med bay immediately when the quinjet touched down at the compound. Bucky was pacing around outside of the room you’re in while the doctors checked you out. Steve walked to his best friend with Iris in his arms.

“Peter’s aunt dropped off Iris a few minutes ago.” Steve says.

A smile grew on Bucky’s face when he seen his daughter.

“Hi, princess.” Bucky murmurs softly as she was placed in his arms. “We got mama back.” He tells her.

Iris laid his head against her daddy’s chest and dozed off. Bucky rubbed her back softly as she slept.

“What did the doctors say?” Steve asks.

“I don’t know. They’re still checking her out. Bruce is in there with them.” Bucky says.

Bruce came out of the room a moment later.

“How is she?” Bucky asks.

“She’s doing good. Whatever HYDRA did to her made her weak so she’ll be weak for a while.” Bruce tells him. “You can see her now.” He says.

“I’ll update the team.” Steve pats Bucky’s back. “Let me know if you need anything.” He says.

Bucky nods and walks in the room you’re in. You were asleep. Bucky sat down in the chair next to the bed. Iris is still sound asleep in his arms. You stirred in your sleep after a few minutes. Your eyes fluttered opened. You turned your head to the side, smiling when you seen your husband and daughter.

“Hi.” You say, sounding a little weak.

“Hi, doll.” Bucky smiles. “How are you feeling?” He asks.

“Not as weak as I felt earlier.” You say.

You weakly reached your arms out, wanting to hold your baby. Bucky carefully and gently put her in your arms. He laid down next to you on the bed.

“Please don’t make me leave you behind ever again.” Bucky says after a few minutes.

“I won’t.” You whispered.

Bucky pressed a soft kiss to your lips. It was short lived when Iris made a squealing noise.

“Did you miss mama?” You cooed, kissing the top of her head.

Iris made a babbling noise and grabbed your nose with her small hand, making you smile.

“I’m sorry I made you choose, baby.” You apologized. “I just wanted our daughter to be safe.” You say.

“You have absolutely nothing to apologize for, babydoll. I want her to be safe too.” He whispers.

You laid your head against your husband’s chest and carefully readjusted your hold on your daughter.

“I love you guys.” You say softly.

“We love you too, doll.” Bucky almost whispers.

Bucky can now relax, knowing that his family is back to the way it should be.

🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵🩵

-Bucky’s Doll

[bucks-and-noble]

Mr. And Mrs. Barnes. Are they ever worried about being apart from each other?

It gets to them from time to time, nonnie.

Hurry Back

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Female Reader

Summary: Bucky has to leave for a mission, and it feels a bit tougher than usual.

Word Count: Over 1.8k

Warnings: Established relationship, crying, being in love, feels, light angst, Bucky Barnes (he's a warning, okay?).

A/N: Before Mr. and Mrs. Barnes got married. February has had some lingering January energy, and I hope you enjoy what I was able to write! ❤️ Not beta read and written on my phone, so any and all mistakes are my own. Divider by the talented @saradika-graphics. Please follow @navybrat817-sideblog for new fics and notifications. Comments, reblogs, feedback are loved and appreciated!

You woke up earlier than expected today. You and Bucky were typically up early anyway thanks to work, but he was up well before the sun rose since he had a mission to get ready for. He wanted you to get some more sleep, but you refused. Sleep would come later, and you wanted to be wide awake to see him off.

Helping pack his bag, you paused and brought one of his shirts to your face. Gently inhaling, you smelled the new detergent he recently switched to. You smiled at the memory of him in the store aisle bringing each cap to your nose to smell. When you asked why he was making you smell all of them, he said he wanted to use the one that smelled the most pleasant to you. He had done the same thing with his cologne, and he made sure to get your favorites.

“Smell is one of the closest senses tied to memories,” he said once you were home. “Whenever you smell my cologne and whenever I smell your perfume, we can think of each other.”

“Is that why you like a spritz of my perfume on your pillow?”

“Yeah, baby,” he smiled gently. “I smell it and I know I’m home.”

Setting the shirt in the bag, you grabbed your bottle of perfume and lightly sprayed it over the open bag. With Bucky’s heightened senses, he’d be able to catch the scent when he opened it. You hoped it made him feel like he was home.

Bucky came out of the bathroom just as you set the bottle back, your breath catching when he ran a hand through his wet hair. You wished you had time to drag him back to bed. Not even for sex, but just to hold each other. “You’ll have the alarm set while I’m gone, right?”

“Of course. I have alerts on my phone, too. I’ll be fine,” you assured him.

He barely nodded. You were aware that he didn’t exactly like the idea of you being there by yourself, but you reminded him the night before that you lived alone before the two of you got together. This wasn’t any different. You also understood the worry, and you appreciated that your safety mattered so much to him.

“Thanks for helping me pack,” he said, his voice thicker than usual. There was a noticeable tick in his jaw, too.

You tried to give him your best smile as you smoothed out the sleeves on his black t-shirt. “Nothing to thank me for,” you said, your voice thick, too.

This wasn’t the first time he had to leave for a mission, and it wouldn’t be the last, but today did feel a bit different. Not because of the worry for your safety, but maybe because it was the first time he had to leave since you two moved in together. In the past, you didn’t have to watch him walk out the door, and he didn’t have to look back to say goodbye.

Goodbye wasn’t exactly something you liked to say since it felt too final.

He captured one of your wrists before you could step away and brought your hand to his cheek. Your heart turned over as he nuzzled your palm, his scruff tickling your skin. “I hate this, you know.”

“Hate what?” you asked, tucking a bit of his hair back. You’d have to help trim it again soon. It meant a lot that he trusted you to help cut his hair.

“Having to be apart from you,” he answered after a moment, his eyes searching yours. He looked lost, but only for a moment

“So do I,” you admitted. He was a hero and people needed him, but it didn’t make him leaving any easier. Waiting for him to come back was the worst part. The dusk before dawn. “But it’s just a couple of days, right? And then you’ll be back before you know it.”

He’d be back with you in the comfort of your home where you both belonged.

“Right,” he said, kissing the center of your palm before he inhaled. “You sprayed your perfume.”

“I did,” you confirmed. Your man didn’t miss a thing. “I wanted it to smell like home for you.” Your voice cracked unexpectedly, and you feared breathing another word in case you burst into tears. You needed to keep it together. The last thing Bucky had to deal with before leaving were your tears.

His gaze went soft, and you nuzzled him when he touched your cheek, the same way he nuzzled you. You already missed the feel of his hands on you though he hadn’t left yet. He was going to miss your touch, too. “I love you,” he whispered.

“I love you, too, Bucky,” you whispered.

You knew in your heart you would never love anyone else the way you love Bucky. He was your best friend, your lover, your soulmate, your everything. If you lost him today whether by death or him walking away, you'd never move on from him. The overwhelming intensity and knowledge of that hit you like a freight train, and you couldn't stop the tears from spilling over. Words alone weren't enough to convey what you felt for him, and the deep emotion in your heart had to overflow and come out somehow.

“Baby,” he whispered, his thumbs quickly wiping away the teardrops. Looking into the deep blue of his eyes through your blurry vision, you saw the same overwhelming sense of love reflected in them. “Breaks my heart when you cry. How can I stop it?”

Stay.

But you refused to ask that of him. You could handle a short mission like you had before. You were a big girl.

“I’m fine, and I’m so sorry,” you told him. He had a mission to concentrate on and didn't need to deal with your tears, good or bad. “I swear, I’m not trying to cry. I’m stronger than this.”

“Don’t be sorry,” he stated, his brows pinched like he was trying not to cry himself. “Crying isn't a weakness. It never is.”

You nodded. It was something you said to him once after he had a terrible nightmare, and they weren’t just empty words. Tears were a sign of vulnerability, but also a sign of strength.

“And you’re so strong. You’re one of the strongest people I know,” he added, his mind in tune with yours. It comforted you. “I mean, you have to be strong to put up with me.”

He chuckled when your eyes narrowed. “I do not ‘put up with you’, so don’t say that,” you argued. He was your man, and you loved him. If anything, he put up with you. “You really think I’m strong?”

“I know you are. You may shed a few more tears when I leave and that’s okay if you do as much as it breaks my heart,” he replied, kissing one last tear away. “But I know you’ll pick yourself up, put a smile on your face, and kick the day’s ass like you do every day.”

You laughed a little and turned your face to meet his lips. He saw the best in you, and he brought it out of you. “I’ll do my best. And I know you’ll kick the mission’s ass.”

“And I know you’ll also find me and kick my ass if I don’t hurry back,” he half teased.

“Damn straight,” you smiled, taking a deep breath and slowly pulling out of his grasp when his phone dinged. Steve was probably waiting outside. “So, we’re just a couple of ass kickers, huh? That makes for a good team.”

The two of you were similar in many ways, but also so different, and it created the perfect balance.

“The best team,” he winked, patting his pockets. “Keys, wallet-”

“Still on the nightstand, ready for you to keep them safe and sound on the quinjet,” you said, nodding to where they sat. “And I have your coffee ready in your favorite to-go mug.”

“I’d say ‘what would I do without you?’, but…” He pulled you back to him, his stare robbing you of your breath once again. “I don’t want to ever find out,” he said.

You didn’t want to find out either.

Your heart fluttered when his lips covered yours. He easily coaxed you to open your mouth to his and allowed him to take what you were always willing to give. It wasn’t easy to be the one who had to stay behind, but it had to be harder to be the one who went ahead on the path. He felt alone for so long, but he’d always have the support of his friends. And he’d always have you.

Even if you physically weren’t beside him during a mission, you would be in his heart, mind, and soul.

You heard him swallow when he pressed his forehead to yours. Some days you wondered if it wasn’t just his senses that the serum heightened, but his feelings and sense of self. He fought for and tried to protect Steve before the serum. Did he fight so much for you because he had something to cherish and protect? Did he love more fiercely because of it? Maybe it simply enhanced the man he was and the heart within him.

“I know you’d stay longer if you could, but you shouldn’t keep Steve waiting,” you said.

Bucky reluctantly released you and slipped into mission mode, silently grabbing everything else he needed, including a knife you gifted him with. You couldn't help yourself. The man was proficient with many weapons, but something about a knife… Maybe you could find an outfit for him to cut off once he came home.

Once you helped him put his leather jacket on and handed him his coffee, you snuck in one more kiss. You refused to cry again. “Love you, handsome. Be safe, and hurry back.”

“Love you, beautiful,” he breathed, slipping his dog tags around your neck with his free hand. When had he grabbed those? “Keep those safe ‘til I get back.”

“I will,” you promised.

A weight settled in your chest when he opened the front door. You liked to believe some days that Bucky was invincible, but he was mortal at the end of the day…. Human. He bled; he suffered. But the weight within you lifted when he stopped and looked back at you with a loving smile. He was human, but he endured, he survived.

Bucky Barnes never gave up, and he never would.

Touching the dog tags, you smiled, too. Life was unpredictable, fleeting, and anything could happen when he left, but the love between you was steadfast, everlasting, and you had to believe he’d come home to you. And you’d welcome him back with arms open and the love he deserved.

I hope this month is kind to everyone and that you have love like the way these two love each other. ❤️ Love and thanks for reading! ❤️

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