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syntheticavenger · 4 months ago

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Fire We Make - Two

Where, oh where, is this muse coming from?

Warnings: 18+ ONLY - language, PTSD, manipulation, mentions of stalking/tracking, mentions of past drugging, brief mention of a pregnancy test but that's about it. I've dropped quite a few Easter eggs in here to lead up to the next chapter.

Word Count: 3.2K

Soft Dark Nomad! Steve Rogers x Reader

Summary | Separating from your husband is harder than you realize, despite warnings from your therapist that you need to give yourself closure and keep your distance.

The paper cup filled with coffee warms your hands, hovering near the assortment of cookies, finger sandwiches and chips.

Your rain boots squeak lightly under the linoleum, watching others come in and embrace, some heading straight for the table as they load up their plates with food. You know that for some, this is the most food they’ll have today – maybe even this week – and you feel a twinge of guilt for even helping yourself to a cup of coffee.

“Hey.”

Sam Wilson stands behind you, cautiously looking at your face. It’s an embrace that you’ve needed, fighting back the tears as he holds you close. You’d had your line drawn in the sand once Steve had retired, no more Christmas cards mailed by Tony Stark or Rhodey. An invisible upheld law that you swore your allegiance to Steve, even if you had wanted to bring them back together to talk, to smooth over the past.

They’d done that for you.

Sam has been your only lifeline to that world that you barely saw, shielded from it much from Steve, who didn’t want to talk about work, especially when he would repeatedly tell you that you were the only place he would call home.

Home, he would tell you, meant that he didn’t want to scar you with the things he had seen and done. Shutting you out intentionally from that world meant that you had to talk with Sam to understand how to bridge that gap.

At your sigh of relief at his handsome face, he opens his arms to you, hugging you tight as he knew that was exactly what you needed.

“I know,” he affirms, so simple and yet poignant that it makes you squeeze your eyes shut to keep from crying.

When he pulls away, he looks around at the people milling behind you.

“This was a drive for you, right?”

He’s right.

Usually his VA meetings are in the city but you’ve been able to track down when he goes to the more rural areas, places where veterans are forgotten and assistance has faded away over time. Sam doesn’t speak about the Sokovia Accords, nor does he grant any interviews now that he’s firmly told reporters that he wants to be left alone. Rumors of Steve giving him the shield were true, one hanging up in his home that he sometime looked on with pride when you and Steve would visit.

For now, he seems at peace.

“A little bit of a drive,” you admit. “I guess I just… needed to see a friendly face.”

“Have you talked to him?”

“Not for a week.”

Sam gives a low whistle, nodding his head. He had been the first person to approach Steve about his issues. For a time, Steve had been attending the meetings – sometime with you and sometimes without you – or so he told you.

“He stopped coming,” Sam informs you. “I guess I thought you’d been able to get him some more professional help.”

“He didn’t like the doctors,” you answer quickly, your brow furrowing at his first comment. “When did he stop coming?”

“About a month ago. He stuck around after a meeting, told me he felt like you and him were in a better place and that he felt that he could move on. I just assumed that you were both figuring things out.”

“I moved out.”

“I know. He told me. Last time I saw him, he mentioned that he was going to remodel the house. Something about keeping himself busy.”

You frown at the news.

“He didn’t mention that to me.”

Sam shoots you a careful look, eyebrow raising as he asks his next question.

“Are you okay?” he asks carefully.

“That’s a loaded question.”

“It may need a loaded answer. Steve isn’t okay. I know that,” Sam confides in you quietly. “He hasn’t been himself since all of this went down. I know he takes his hits and he moves on but this isn’t like anything I’ve seen. It’s obsessive behavior. That’s not healthy. Do you have people who are looking out for you?”

“My family. Friends.”

“You know you’re always welcome here. I mean that,” Sam emphasizes. “But I want you to be careful, okay?”

“Do you know something I don’t?”

“He’s always been obsessed with you. He loves you. More than anything else in this world. But obsession is never a good thing.”

“That’s why we took a break,” you admit, looking down at your cup. “I… I can’t help him in the way he needs.”

“It’s like those airplane safety videos. Put your own mask on before you help others. I know you love him but right now, you need to love him at a safe distance. I’m not trying to scare you, I just know that you two have been together for a while and Steve can be a charming bastard. But I didn’t like what I saw that last month and I didn’t like the idea of him remodeling a house for both of you to live in. He didn’t even mention it to you.”

A chill takes over slightly, making you sip your coffee before you nod.

“I promise. I’ll take care of myself first.”

Mona turns up the volume on the TV, the news reporter standing in a wooded area.

“The man has zero recollection of how he found himself in the forest, let alone the last two days. Authorities are still investigating but it is believed the man had been drugged but he is expected to make a full recovery. More to come on this breaking story.”

Mona turns the TV off, making a face as she hands you a glass of wine.

“This world is shitty. I hope he’s turns out okay. Can’t even go have a drink anymore,” Mona sighs. “No more news for me, that shit was depressing. How about we order take out for dinner? What are you in the mood for?”

“I don’t know. My brain is all over the place.

“I can look. But I’m glad you’re here.”

Mona places her glass of wine down, her expression changing for a moment when she clears her throat.

“Look, I need to ask this and I know it’s going to sound crazy but I need you to hear me out, okay?” she warns gently. “It’s been bothering me for a while.”

“What?”

You’re confused, unsure of why this conversation has shifted so suddenly.

“The other night I tried to call you and it kept going to voicemail. I know you told me you were tired but you haven’t been sleeping lately.”

“When?”

“A week or so ago. You told me Steve had been trying to see you and then you didn’t answer your phone and I got worried. I know I saw your text that you were going to bed but…” Mona sighs, shaking her head. “I know it seems weird but the text didn’t even seem like you. You usually call me when you’re awake to let me know you’re alright.”

“I was just tired.”

You repeat the words mentally in your head, trying to remember the night that Steve had shown up at your apartment. You remember eating, Steve talking to you about trying to get back together. You don’t remember texting her, Mona’s hand reaching out to touch yours as your memories get fuzzy from that night.

“Was he with you that night?” Mona asks, a lump forming in your throat.

“For a little,” you confirm, Mona’s mouth tightening at your words.

“Do you remember anything from that night? Texting me back to say you were tired? You didn’t sound like yourself”

“I was tired, Mona, I -”

Mona grips your hand tight.

“I know your texting style. That wasn’t you. And the fact you can’t remember anything else about that night?”

“I told you, I was really tired.”

Mona doesn’t let go of your hand when you try to reach for your phone, to try to get some confirmation that you aren’t blacking out at your memory.

“I need you to listen to me. I think he drugged you.”

Your boss doesn’t bat an eye when she grants you a two-week personal leave. She’s been engrossed in the news, a recipient of a Stark grant and she’s been waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop. The personal leave, she had told you with a sympathetic nod, is the first step in getting a divorce once you have a clear head.

You don’t have the strength to talk to Mona, to tell her that the test she had pressed you to take is negative.

You’ve cancelled your session with Doctor Maren, rescheduling for next week so that you don’t get a phone call. As it turns out, it isn’t just your friends who are worried about you. Court appointed therapy is a precaution, as you were told when you’d filed. Monitored to make sure you complied.

Dialing Sam’s number, you wait for him to pick up, which he does on the second ring.

“Hey, everything okay?”

“I don’t know,” you respond, tears filling your eyes almost too quickly at his question. “I think… I don’t know… I -”

“Are you home? I can come to you or we can meet somewhere.”

“I’m not home,” you rush out. “I’m… I’m a hotel. I just… I can’t be there.”

“Where do you want to meet?”

“I can meet you at the VA.”

“Sounds good, I’ll make sure you’re on the list.”

“Sam?”

“Yeah?”

“Thank you.”

Steve pulls down his baseball cap, ignoring the woman standing next to him in the aisle, her overt bending making him look in the other direction. His cart is nearly full, stopping to look at the various colors of paint. The new room he is working on needs a lighter color of paint than he first thought, picking up two swatches as the woman clears her throat.

“That’s a pretty color.”

“It is,” Steve agrees, looking between both of them.

Your favorite colors have always been green or blue, various shades in between. The woman looks over, giving him a smile.

“I like the green,” she announces. “Very earthy.”

He notices her eyes settle on his wedding ring, her smile fading for a moment.

“Lucky woman,” she says with a nod in his direction. “Does she have a favorite color?”

“She does. It’s blue.”

“I’d go with blue then.”

He stops for a moment, grabbing the bucket of paint and placing it into his cart. The woman watches him carefully, as if trying to figure out where she’s seen him from before.

For a moment, he entertains the thought of her possibly being at the club that you had visited, wondering if she could place his face. Steve knows this is out of the question. He’d been the only one there to take him out.

He’s seen the news. It’s a pity that the man survived but Steve knows it was by pure luck.

Still, the idea makes him wonder what she’s thinking. He thought he would have gotten tired of the beard but it affords him the anonymity that he didn’t know he needed. It had taken some getting used to, especially the way you had first looked at him when you’d seen him when he’d landed from Wakanda. Clean shaven was now a thing of the past, gone with the hopes and dreams that he would be back to the man he used to be.

“Well, you have a nice day,” she calls out, admittedly defeated that he isn’t going to be baited.

“You too.”

He notices how short her skirt is, watching her turn toward another aisle. A woman on the prowl, looking for her next paramour. He knows you would never be like, stalking down the aisles of home improvement stores, batting your eyelashes at random men. Your loyalty is one of the reasons he was drawn to you, how trusting you were and devoted.

He looks down at the supplies in his cart, eyeing the various rolls of masking tape, zip ties and other things inside, including the thick pieces of lumber that he still has to pick up.

By the time he gets to the registers, he’s already mapped out his plans for the next few days. He’s been back on a cleaner routine, working out in the early hours of the morning and late at a night when he isn’t working tediously on the house.

He smiles to the cashier, paying in cash as she returns it.

“Has anyone ever told you that you look like Captain America?” she asks, handing him his receipt.

“You’re the first one. You have a good day.”

“What happened to Bucky?”

“Deprogramming in Wakanda. Steve took him there himself and when he came back… he was a different person. Made sense. You thought your best friend was dead for decades and he’s brainwashed. That would mess anyone up.”

“And Tony?”

“I wasn’t there,” Sam sighs, straightening up in his chair. “I just know the fight was brutal. I saw videos.”

“I know,” you respond quietly. “I saw them. He doesn’t know that.”

In Sam’s office, it’s a safe space, his degrees and certificates hanging on the walls, pictures in glass frames of his travels around the world.

Him, Bucky and Steve at your wedding.

“Do you ever reach out to Tony?”

“No,” you deny quickly. “Pepper sent me a letter once. Handwritten. She said she missed him. Missed us.”

“Did you ever answer?”

“No,” you swallow. “Steve found it. He wasn’t ready to respond.”

“But it was addressed to you,” Sam points out. “Did he tell you he didn’t want you to answer?”

“I called her. She didn’t answer and then texted me that Tony was around.”

Sam swears under his breath, a look of disgust on his face.

“You’re collateral damage.”

You try to shrug, the loneliness creeping up again. Chewing on a slice of pizza, your thoughts go to Mona and how you had promised that you would tell someone. You still haven’t told Sam why you’re there, the need to admit why you’re occupying a seat in his office rising like bile in your throat.

“When I saw Steve last week, I let him inside my apartment to talk.”

Sam’s head tilts at your admission.

“Go on.”

“He was still trying to get me to change my mind on the separation but.” Pausing, you aren’t sure if you can form the words. It doesn’t feel right, like you’re about to drown.

“What happened?”

“We were eating and I woke up the next morning. I don’t… I don’t remember what happened after we talked.”

Sam goes still, knowing he’s trying to process what you’ve just told him.

“He drugged you.”

“I don’t know,” you reply, Sam shaking his head. “Sam, I -”

“Did you report it?”

“No,” you answer quickly. “I can’t report him, are you kidding, he -”

“Drugged you. Did you get checked out?”

“Sam, nothing happened. I took a pregnancy test, it was negative. I was in the clothes I had gone to work in, no sign of a condom, no sign of anything. I just… slept.”

“As far as you know.”

“He wouldn’t do that.”

“Wouldn’t what? Not get consent while you’re asleep? You’re right, that doesn’t sound like Steve. But the drugging doesn’t sound like him either and here we are, talking about it.”

Silence falls, Sam muttering to himself before he stands.

“Obsessive behavior,” he says to you. “Is that why you didn’t want to stay in your apartment? Does he come there often?”

“I haven’t seen him since I told you. Sam, I just need guidance. He’s hurt and he won’t listen to me. If he did… drug me… I can’t be alone with him.”

“He needs to be taken in.”

You shake your head sadly.

“He wouldn’t spend but a few hours there. And he doesn’t need to be thrown into a jail cell, he needs help.”

“That help can’t come from you.”

“I know.”

“Let me talk to him,” Sam offers. “I can get him into treatment, we can plan this out.”

“He won’t listen.”

“It’s that or jail,” Sam reminds you. “Do you understand the severity of what you just told me?”

“It was to help me sleep.”

“You can’t keep making excuses for his behavior. So, let’s say he was trying to help you out. Did you ask to be drugged? To be placed into bed?”

At your silence, Sam shakes his head.

“I’ll make sure you have an escort back to your hotel. But you have to promise me, and I mean promise me, that you won’t contact him or entertain the thought of contacting him until he gets help.”

You nod in response.

“I promise.”

It’s late when you get back, Sam’s right hand, Joaquin walking you to your hotel room, waiting for you to get inside.

Overly tired, you head into the bathroom to take a shower, stripping off your clothes and stepping inside, the hot water beating against your skin.

Stepping out and wrapping towel around your body and one around your hair, examining your face in the mirror gives you pause, noticing your sad expression. You force yourself to smile, touching the apples of your cheeks before you sigh, brushing your teeth in defeat. For that minuscule moment, you almost felt like yourself, finishing up your bedtime routine and slipping into a pair of leggings and an oversized shirt.

Stopping in your tracks, a bouquet catches your attention on the table. It’s red roses, beautifully tied together with a blue bow.

You hadn’t heard anyone come in, let alone the open and close of the door. Inching closer, you pick up the card, reading what it says in a typed font.

I miss you.

Swallowing hard, you’re unsure of what to say or do, taking a step back to look around the room. It’s comfortably quiet, even as you open the closets and look under the bed.

Calling the front desk, you hope that it was a mistake, getting ready to give them a piece of your mind about a flower delivery that was not authorized. For a moment, you relax. It’s probably for the wrong room and a mistake can still be fixed. You’ll double bolt your door tonight and check out and get another hotel.

“Hello?” you greet the front desk when a friendly voice comes on the line. “I’m in Room 476. I was in the shower when flowers were delivered and I had the do not disturb sign on.”

“Oh no,” the voice says, dismayed. “I am so sorry, let me look it up. I apologize, that is unacceptable.”

You can hear the sound of keys on the keyboard being punched, the line going quiet.

“I’m so sorry but it doesn’t appear that there were any flower deliveries in our system today. I’m going to send up our manager and security to address this with you if that is alright.”

“Yes. Please.”

When you hang up, you go back to the flowers, noticing the blue ribbon.

It’s in your favorite color.

#soft dark fic #steve rogers x reader #steve rogers x you #steve rogers x female reader #steve rogers x black female reader #steve rogers

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rainbowpopeworld · 2 months ago

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(So you don’t have to deal with all the annoying ads on The Mirror’s website, here’s the whole article interview)

EXCLUSIVE: David Tennant reveals his wife Georgia's role) in his 'huge' Rivals series decision

By Nicola Methven

“David Tennant says he jumped at the chance to star in Jilly Cooper’s 1980s bonkbuster Rivals - because his wife said it would be “sensational”.

The former Doctor Who star said she was thrilled when the first script arrived. “I told Georgia and she was convinced that this was something I had to be involved with,” he explains. “She said, ‘This series is going to be huge. This is going to be exactly what the country needs, exactly what the world needs.’

"She knew the books from her teenage years, as I understand, and knew that this was going to make sensational television.”

He duly accepted the role of Lord Tony Baddingham, one of the show’s main villains and was delighted when Georgia eventually got to watch the episodes, and loved them.

"Her reaction was so positive and so joyous," he says. "I know when she's being genuine."

Tony is a grammar school boy with a chip on his shoulder about not being a proper toff. His character runs a regional TV station facing franchise renewal and has a dependable upper-crust wife, played by Sherwood's Claire Rushbrook, but is also having a very steamy affair with the new TV executive he's lured over from New York (Nafessa Williams).

The actor, 53, argues that poor old Tony is just horribly misunderstood. "From the inside, no character believes they're a villain, do they? I think Tony's motivations are very clear. He's very easy to understand in many ways. Tony sees himself as hard done by and someone who's just struggling to survive and to win."

While he can remember the 80s quite clearly, Tenant says that filming Rivals felt very much like being on a period drama. "It's almost like being on the set of a Dickens novel," he muses.

"The 80s seems quite recent history to me, but once you start recreating that world, you realise it's actually very different. That's wonderful fun to film - to be on a time capsule of a set is glorious."

As the Doctor he got to time-travel all over the place in the TARDIS but Tenant says he loved spending time in the 80s, not least because of the music. When you're a teenager at the time, a lot of it, however good it is, is uncool, and therefore you're not really allowed to like it," he says. "Whereas now, as a jaded 53-year-old, I can just go, 'Oh, do you know what I loved? A-ha'."

And what else did he love? "I didn't have to ride a horse, which was a mercy, because I'm a little bit allergic."

Tenant admits that filming the incredibly saucy bedroom scenes was a bit awkward but he felt there was safety in numbers thanks to the huge number of them. Barely any of the cast don't end up getting involved in one way or another.

"| mean, sex scenes are never comfortable, you know? But again, because everyone was in the same boat, there was a lot of discussion about, 'When are you doing that scene?' and 'Have vou done that yet?'

He believes it's fine for Rivals to be labelled a “bonkbuster" - it's full of sex at the end of the day - but only if it's said with due respect for what Dame Jilly achieved with the Rutshire Chronicles. "There are a generation of readers who were so influenced by her, and for whom these novels meant so much, it means that that writing is obviously better than some would have you believe," he says. "The way she writes character is timeless, and people having sex is pretty timeless. So these books have been tenacious for a reason." The actor says an early scene where the pathologically competitive Tony leaps from his helicopter onto the croquet lawn is his favourite career moment so far.

"That hole-in-one, I would like you to know, was probably the greatest day of my professional life," he laughs. Instructed by the director to "whack it" from 30 feet away he was told the cameras would keep running until he managed it. "I thought the crew are gonna hate me by take 402," he remembers. "And I nailed it on take four. I've never felt more pleased with myself than that moment. I felt like a sporting God."”

#david tennant #Rutshire? really?? 😂#I guess it’s the same as Baddingham #I had never heard of Jilly Cooper or her books before David was cast in this #I’m sure I’m going to enjoy the gratuitous sex #I’m not sure I’ll enjoy any of the vibes or plot #david fucking tennant #sexy scottish serpent #rivals #jilly cooper #bonkbuster #interview #tony baddingham #georgia tennant #good omens #crowley #doctor who #dw

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missvelvetsstuff · 7 months ago

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No Benefits

Bucky Barnes x Reader, Bucky Barnes x Sharon Carter

Summary: Reader and Bucky are best friends until a drunken hook up. Bucky wants a friends with benefits situation because he doesn't feel ready for a relationship but reader knows that will lead to a broken heart.

Then Sharon Carter comes to work with them.

Notes: Steve and Tony are around but retired, everything else is mostly canon

Chapter Notes: I'm really nervous with the direction my muse has taken with this story. I hope I can pull it off. LMK what you think, please.

Previous chapter:

"Cookie!" Bucky roared as he came striding up to her office "What the Hell is this bullshit?"

Chapter 3

Warnings: Swearing, angst, Bucky's a jerk, Sharon Carter sucks

Cookie looked at Bucky with a deep exhaustion caused by researching all night and early morning briefings with the top agents to figure out what to do with Sharon while Bucky was her guard dog. Maria was ready to tear into him. Cookie cleared her throat to gain Maria's attention then made a small shake of her head to ask her to back down, Cookie knew she could handle Bucky by herself.

Maria nodded and left to sit in her office across the hall, leaving the door open just in case.

Cookie straightened her shoulders and sighed "How can I help you Sargent Barnes?"

Bucky glared at her breathing heavily "You know damn well how you can help me. Who the fuck do you think you are making accusations at Sharon like this?" He waved the report in her face until she grabbed it and tore it from his hands.

Holding the partially torn report Cookie stood up to her full height, her heels bringing her eye level with Bucky. She stared at him in his cold blue eyes to show him she wasn't intimidated by him, then walked around her desk to close the door "I don't think it's wise to leave the door open while we discuss top secret intelligence."

She returned to her chair "Please have a seat Sargent." took a deep breath and spoke calmly

"I think, no I'm damn sure I'm the lead east coast Intel analyst who was hand picked from Quantico by Nick Fury while you were still on ice with Hydra, who kept our intel operation running during the Blip while Nick Fury, Maria Hill and....hhmm, oh that's right, You, were all dust in the wind. None of my conclusions were specious and I followed the facts, without prejudice, as my job requires. This has less than nothing to do with your personal, ahem, entanglements. There's solid evidence to back up every claim."

Bucky shook his head "Bullshit. You've been acting put out since I rejected you and found a way to hurt me back. You obviously faked the proof. You better fucking retract this garbage and clear Sharon's name."

Cookie scoffed and shook her head "No Barnes. You're the one who lied to me and decided on your own to end our friendship but this has nothing to do with that." she turned away before he could respond and went into the filing cabinet behind her desk, pulling a thick folder from the top drawer then dropping it heavily on the desk.

"Here is all of the evidence that I have been compiling on the Power Broker since they showed on our radar during the Blip, and spent most of the night organizing. The pictures and the stack with a red paper clip all came in the mail from Latvia a few days ago, the envelope is attached, and was opened in front of Fury and Hill. The night before we received them I was on the phone with my top informant, the one who sent that package, who tried to tell me something about the power broker but was killed while on the phone. Before disconnecting a woman's voice told me to back off of the power broker or I'd be next." She played the recording of that call and others from the same informant.

Bucky shook his head "You've been doing this long enough, you could have made authentic looking evidence. Especially with all the AI stuff. Or had someone do it."

Cookie looked at him like he'd grown another head "Are you serious Barnes? You think I would ever intentionally risk the reputation and career that I've worked my ass off for my entire adult life, over a broken heart? You think that I would ruin someones life and risk legal repercussions on myself over a man? You know what this job means to me and what I've been through to get here."

Bucky hesitated with a pained look on his face and shook his head like he was trying to clear it. There was a voice in the back of his head, telling him this was all wrong but something made him push it down and keep going.

"Well, maybe one of your people is doing it. Are you even sure that informant is dead? Maybe the family is trying to get paid. Or the real power broker is smart enough to lead you to Sharon and you're all too willing to believe the worst because of me."

He paused for a minute "And I heard you call me a liar but I've never lied to you."

Cookie laughed "You sure about that? It's been awhile so I understand if your memory is failing. That morning? The last time you actually acknowledged me outside of work related, yeah you lied to me. Twice actually"

Bucky tried to remember back to that morning, something he tried to avoid because he knew he made one of the worst mistakes of his life. He shook his head to clear the image of her heartbroken face "Yeah I don't know what you're talking about."

Cookie scoffed "Of course you don't, I'm surprised you remembered my name when you came in here. First, you told me you weren't ready for a relationship but you jumped into one with Sharon before her car cooled down" Bucky opened his mouth to protest but she glared at him and he backed down "and second, you told me you loved me and wanted to stay friends but went to ignoring me before my tears dried."

She felt her eyes filling up and cursed "Fuck. You even started leaving the room if I was there. Do you know how it feels to have one of your so called best friends cut you out of their life like you were dog shit on their shoe?" She cleared her throat and wiped her tears.

"I would never frame someone, ever. No matter how I felt about them. Not even you."

Bucky stared at her then winced as though he was in severe pain and dropped his head into his palms before speaking again.

"Well something is going on somewhere because I know, in my gut that Sharon isn't the power broker. There's no way."

He picked his head up and looked at Cookie

"I'm not in a relationship with her, we're just friends. And I didn't lie, I was wrong. I thought I wanted to stay friends with you but I don't, I can't. You're always looking at me and making me feel guilty and I don't deserve that. Plus you've been nasty to Sharon since she got here, don't think she hasn't told me about the horrible comments you make to her."

Cookie laughed "This is the most we've spoken in months, I'm not doing anything to make you feel guilty. That's all on you. But Sharon has you all twisted around because she's the one making nasty comments to me."

Bucky bristled "I don't have anything to feel guilty for. I've done nothing wrong and Sharon wouldn't lie to me."

She shrugged "If you say so, I didn't say anything. Now I've given you the details and shown the evidence. What you do is on you."

Bucky stood up, winced again and shook his head "I don't know if you did it or someone you're working with but I do know someone is trying to frame Sharon and you're going along with it. I'll prove you're wrong, that's what I'm gonna do."

Cookie scoffed "Good luck with that, Barnes"

Bucky put his hands on her desk and leaned into her space, his voice quiet and cold "I'll prove you're doing this because of your jealousy and your job and reputation will be over."

Cookie spat at him "Go fuck yourself Barnes, if you think that poorly of me you obviously never knew me. I have never been anything less than thorough and professional. I guess I should be grateful you panicked and cut me out of your life before I let myself get too attached. Good luck with Carter and get the Hell out of my office."

She sat down and went back to the packets she was finishing.

Bucky stood and stared like he was expecting something to happen before turning around and stalking off to find Sharon.

He woke up in the dark, with Sharon curled into him and looked at his watch. 9pm? Not again, his last memory was yelling at Cookie after breakfast then finding Sharon but nothing after that. He decided he had enough and scheduled an appointment with medical in the morning to see if they could help him figure out why he kept losing time.

Cookie spent the rest of the day in more briefings with senior agents to discuss the Sharon Carter problem and how to negate it. Bucky Barnes attachment to Carter was discussed as well since he had already started causing trouble over the revelations and couldn't be trusted to do the right thing.

When she was asked why they couldn't just arrest Sharon and tranq Bucky if he caused a problem, Cookie told them about her concerns that Sharon had an ally in the intel department that needed to be weeded out before Sharon.

She was back in her office, cleaning up her desk for the day when Sharon Carter herself wandered in, sat down and waited expectantly for Cookie to speak.

"What can I do for you agent Carter? I'm a little busy."

Sharon smirked "I know what you're trying to do and I understand. You're in love with Barnes and he wants me. It sucks and I know you must be hurting but slandering me won't get him back. In fact he ran to me this morning to tell me what you were trying to do and wondering why you wanted to hurt him so bad. I told him I would work it out with you."

Her face turned nasty "So here's how this is gonna work. You are going to stop trying to smear my name and leave Barnes alone, he doesn't need or want you. Think you can handle that?"

Cookie kept her face blank. "I don't need you to tell me how to do my job, agent Carter, so get the Hell out of my office."

Sharon laughed "Don't mess with me Cookie, I'm not the girl you want to play with."

Cookie faked an exaggerated yawn "Sure Carter, I'm scared."

Sharon smirked "It doesn't matter what evidence you have, you know. Barnes won't believe you. You could record me telling you that I'm the power broker and want the Soldat to be my enforcer because that's the truth." She grinned and winked "and show it to him. He won't believe you, he's already mine." She sighed "Of course now that you're on to me I will have to adjust my plans but he will want to go with me, even beg to come to protect me from all of you.

Don't chase us little girl, you won't like what you catch."

Her grin grew to something that would rival the Joker "In fact, go ahead and show him. I know FRIDAY is recording all this so let's go and show him. I want you to see how pointless this all is so you can leave us alone."

Her face hardened "Let's go" she grabbed Cookie by her upper arm and dragged her away from her desk. Cookie tried to fight her but she wasn't great with hand to hand, give her a weapon and she might have a chance but Sharon didn't give her the opportunity to grab anything.

When they arrived at Bucky's room Sharon's face softened before Bucky answered the door.

"Hey doll, you don't have to knock just-" he stopped and frowned when he saw Cookie "What the Hell is going on, Cookie have you been harassing Sharon?"

He looked to Sharon for an explanation.

Sharon was able to squeeze a tear from her eye "I was by her office to talk to Maria and Cookie said she was watching me and knew she could prove that I'm the power broker. Listen to what she said. Friday can you play the audio from my talk in Cookies office a few minutes ago?"

"Of course agent Carter."

A recording started of Sharon and Cookies interaction in her office. Bucky started listening with a passive face but he grew angrier with everything Sharon said.

Cookie felt hopeful that he would finally see the truth about Sharon but he aimed his ire at her.

"Seriously Cookie? You just can't let it go can you? Sharon hasn't done anything except make me happy and it's killing you. Like I'm some prize to be won. I never thought you would compromise yourself like this but maybe I'll have a talk with Fury and Hill about your obsession with me."

Cookie just stared at him, trying to figure out what the Hell he was talking about. They both heard Sharon say she was the power broker but he still didn't believe it. "Are you listening to the same audio I am Barnes? She said right there shes the power broker and wants the Winter Soldier to be her enforcer."

Bucky glared at her "Jesus Cookie, that's not even close to what she said. Maybe you need to take a vacation because you're losing it."

He looked her up and down "Honestly you look like shit. When did you stop taking care of yourself? I definitely wouldn't have slept with you if you looked like this."

Sharon just stood next to Bucky grinning like a JackAss at Cookie. "I told you Cookie, he's mine so let it go."

Cookie took a breath then turned and walked away without another word. Sharon must have found some way to brainwash him again and Cookie knew there was nothing she could do right now except notify Fury and Hill that Bucky was under Sharon's control so they could work on getting him back. They scheduled a meeting for first thing the next morning at 5am.

Cookie was woken up by her phone ringing at 3am after just falling asleep. It was Sam, Bucky and Sharon were gone, Stark phones and tracking devices left sitting on the desk in his quarters.

Chapter 4

The Power Broker and The Winter Soldier, in the wind.

@erelierraceala @capswife @ozwriterchick @cjand10 @wintrsoldrluvr @mrsbuckybarnes1917 @browneyedgrli @greatenthusiasttidalwave @hhiggs @dontworryboutitsweetheart-blog @behindmygreyeyes @pattiemac1 @calwitch @mrs-bucky-barnes-73 @ordelixx

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes fanfiction #james bucky barnes x reader #james bucky barnes #bucky barnes x you #angst with a happy ending #james bucky barnes x y/n #bucky barnes x female reader #no benefits

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lovelyladyabsinthewrites · 1 year ago

Text

Just What You Wanted

Pairing(s): onesided!Pietro Maximoff x Reader, Bucky Barnes x Reader

Warnings: pietro really misses his chance here, oocpietro? (first time writing him), reader being a big adult and moving on, pietro acting like a child, mentions of sexy time (readerxbucky), toxic!pietro, protective!bucky

Words: 4430

Summary: You decided to take your chance and ask Pietro out. There had to be more to his flirting right? Unfortunately he turns you down but you won't waste your time mourning what could have been. You move on and find a perfect partner in the Winter Soldier.

"Maybe I got the signals mixed up?" You lightheartedly muse to Wanda. Carefully, you push down on the button stopper of the wine box that was situated between the two of you.

Wanda shakes her head. "Don't even give it a second thought. He's my brother and I love him, but you can do WAY better than him." She couldn't fathom why Pietro would reject your proposition of a date. Wanda knew her twin brother liked you. Painfully obvious in the obnoxious manner both of you flirt.

Making a mental note to chew him out later, Wanda tilts the remainder of her own wine glass into her mouth. "He's been acting like a complete ass since we arrived in America. I think now that he has freedom, he's overdosing on it. What was the term Tony used?"

You choke on your wine, a snort burning your nose and throat. "Man-whore."

She nods. "Yes! That is it. He's become quite a man-whore!"

Near dying next to her, you're forced to put down your wine glass or you would ruin your bedspread. Once your hands were free, you use them to clutch your stomach as it aches from your laughter.

Really you weren't that upset about it. You thought you would give it a shot, maybe something was there. No big duh to you.

"Did he really say he didn't want to date you because you're coworkers?" Confusion still plagued Wanda as she slowly blinks her eyes. Trying to understand what her brother was thinking. They didn't have that type twin telepathy. That was mainly based on feelings. "That's complete bull."

"Honestly it's okay. Really." You tell Wanda trying to calm her down. "He's probably right. No harm done."

Wanda placates her own feelings with a smile at how unperturbed you were by the rejection. Pietro was a fool. His loss will be someone else's gain.

Not long after someone else did stumble upon you.

Never before had you worked with the Winter Soldier. You'd seen him around Avenger's HQ and spotted him in the common areas, but you wouldn't say you were close to Bucky Barnes. Only a handful of friendly words had ever been shared between you.

The assignment that paired you together with him would ultimately turn out to be a blessing in disguise. A simple mission that you confidently thought you could finish in no time. The run of the mill shadow organization that possessed weapons of mass destruction and infiltrating said organization. You and Bucky were picked for this based on your success record and skill set. You found it a compliment as you heard nothing but great things about Bucky. He was a fine soldier and outstanding friend to Steve Rogers.

Fury told you the timeline looked to be a month before this organization known as 'Specter' planned to launch its weapon. A major problem was that their base was hidden so both you and Bucky would have to go deep undercover.

You shared an close space with Bucky and found him pleasurable to be around. He was easy on the eyes too. His smile makes every inch of you flutter delightfully. Similar to how flirting with Pietro made you feel.

Patience was required when gathering intel. An operation like this couldn't be rushed. That meant learning more about Bucky. He even manages to pry some stories from your childhood out of you. Things you hadn't remembered in a long time.

When passing binoculars, fingers linger against one another. Excuses of offering warmth just so that you could press yourself against him. His jacket might as well have belonged to you now due to how often you were wearing it now.

"It looks better on you anyway." Bucky would tell you. A heaviness in his gaze puts all of your functions at a halt.

You started noticing how kissable his lips looked. Or the fine veins that run along his hands. Beautiful as they held a gun. Between your legs start to ache for him when you watch Bucky strangling a man for information. You never found violence. . . attractive until you worked with Bucky. It was just a means to get by. A requirement for the world you lived in.

Throughout the mission, you manage to keep things professional. Even though the burning gazes exchanged were still frequent. You had to focus your efforts on completing your assignment. Bucky respects that type of work ethic.

Identifying the main figures within Specter was easy once missing pieces were filled with the information you received along the way. One would be spared for questioning, the other two were quickly disposed of.

When your prisoner was handed over to the government which held dominion, you and Bucky head back to the room you'd been using to hide out in.

You were excited to go home and tell Wanda all about it. You're giddy, imagining her scandalized reaction that you loved. Her eyes would get so big, hands clutching onto your arm begging for more details.

A knock at the door puts a pause in your packing as you go to check the peephole. You open it once you verify it's just Bucky. "You all done packing? Sorry, I'll just be five more minutes."

He closes the door behind him. "It's not that."

The depth of his voice has you shivering, turning back to him with your full attention. He's cleaned off the dirt from his face and changed his clothes. Appeared Bucky even brushed his dark hair. Disheveled Bucky was sexy but cleaned up Bucky was a god damn smoke show. Your bones become trembling jelly as he stalks up to you.

"I believe, we have some personal business to take care of." The corner of his lips twitch up in a predatory manner to show off his sharp cuspids.

"By all means," You breathe out and internally cheer when it doesn't come out as a squeak "lets commence the business Mr. Barnes."

The delay of your return to headquarters did raise brows.

Especially Pietro's.

You took Wanda by the arm and she knew you had a story to tell. Using her magic-like ability, she conjures a bottle of wine accompanied by two glasses.

Two schoolgirls giggling and kicking their legs as they talk about one's crush.

"And he told me-" your cheeks hurt from your smile "that he wants to take me out on a proper date."

Wanda swoons backwards as she falls against your bed. She says something in her native Sokovian before switching to English "I told you that you could do much better than Pietro."

From then on it was a common occurrence to find you and Bucky together. You visit one another's room frequently day and night. Time spent not on assignment, Bucky would take you out on both fun and romantic dates. He wooed you like no other man had before. A goddamn gentleman who ate and slurped your pussy in a way that sucked the soul right out of you.

There were men before Bucky but sweet mercy they couldn't compare to the beast that was Bucky once he got your legs perched atop his shoulders. You would never had taken him for a sloppy eater, not by the way he used his fork and knife when he took you out to fancy restaurants. When he slides in his cold metal fingers, your back spikes up in a arch off the bed.

However, not everyone in the Avenger's Headquarters was happy for you and Bucky.

When Pietro first walked into the communal kitchen to find Bucky's hand up your shirt, he nearly suffered from an aneurysm on the spot. Thankfully his feet reacted faster than his brain and took off in the opposite direction before either of you noticed his presence. He'd heard the office gossip that you and Bucky were an item now. Pietro arrogantly thought that your relationship with the winter soldier was a fling or some fucked up way for get back at him for turning you down.

Hitting the two month mark had Pietro sweating. Your relationship with Bucky was thriving. The sting of betrayal sears his insides. When he voices his woes to his twin, Wanda held no comforting words for him.

"Oh well. They love each other now. So you have to move on." Uncaringly, her attention goes back to her phone. "You had your chance, Pietro."

He shoots his sister a glare. "Have some empathy."

That makes her laugh but at least Wanda puts her phone down and turns back to Pietro. "Empathy? Refresh my memory, what was the real reason why you didn't date her?" He'd told you it was because you were coworkers. Claimed he didn't want things to be weird around HQ. Conveniently forgetting that Wanda and Vision were in a happy relationship. But she knew the disgusting truth.

His eyes turn pleading, round and lined with those pretty lashes he flaunted. "Wanda-"

"No, I want to hear you say it again and really help me try to understand." Her arms cross in front of her.

Pietro takes his bottom lip between his teeth to give it a worrying chew. "I. . . I wasn't ready to be in a monogamous relationship- Hey, I'm being serious." He adds the last part after he hears Wanda snort. "We spent all of our adolescence and young adult lives under HYDRA control. It's only been two years since we were liberated. I want to live a little bit more before settling down."

"And look what that has cost you."

"I didn't think-"

"No, you didn't." Wanda's exasperated. "That's not a good excuse. Bucky is in the same boat as us and just because he missed out on having a life he didn't let that stop him from making things official with her."

In short, Pietro simply had no choice but to deal with it. And his way of dealing with it was bringing home his current ladies in the hopes of catching your attention. If you see him with another woman, maybe your jealous would remind you of your feelings for him. That tactic didn't work and only gained him disapproving looks from his twin. He stopped when it was clear your heart eyes weren't straying from Bucky.

Evident that he wasn't going to win you back, Pietro's disbelief curdled to jealousy.

Words weren't enough to bring him to his senses; none in English or Sokovian reached his ears. Exhausted from trying to speak reason to him, Wanda stops all together. Perhaps her brother needed to fall on his ass to wake up.

You weren't blind to Pietro's spike in hostile conduct. Lately there were a few close calls between Bucky and Pietro. Bucky refused to stand for Quicksilver's attitude. Fists weren't raised- not yet. But if looks could kill, both would be incinerated.

Unable to ignore Pietro at Headquarters, you and Bucky take the plunge and buy an apartment together and move out of the superhero facility all together. The apartment complex was still relatively close to headquarters; mainly housing other staff that worked out of there.

Just because you removed yourselves, you were still Avengers and required to attend functions for different movie fundraisers or anything else that had you in hair and make-up for two hours. It paid off to watch Bucky's mouth near drop at the sight of you. This once-assassin who has blood on his hands truly did something to you when he wore a sharp suit. Seams that are streamline and highlight his broad shoulders. Even his waist was deliciously framed. You wanted to hop on him and wrap your legs around that sinfully sexy waist.

Alas, neither you or Bucky could just continue to stand there drooling over the other.

"Wipe your chin, Barnes." Natasha teases as she passes by. To you she shoots a lively smile. "Come on you two. Free booze and food await us."

Pietro had already found the said free booze; ignoring the free food part. He was obligated to attend the gala, agreed to it months ago. If he backed out now, everyone else would have his ass over the fire.

Though he felt like maybe it would have been better had he just said fuck it and stayed home. Especially when you and Bucky walk in looking like the perfect couple. Cameras went off yet people kept a respectful distance from the two of you. You basically had your own guard dog in the form of the Winter Soldier. He towers over you in a way that told others to back off; a protective hand holding onto your's. Both of you are quite the sight standing next to Wanda and Vision. Wanda happily hugs you, her words lost to the loud background music.

He can't take his eyes off of you.

Alcohol warming his system, Pietro downed glass after glass. There was a momentary warmth he felt inside of him before he caught sight of you again.

Hating seeing the two of you together, Pietro spirals in his own head. Plenty of pretty girls around him, all he could focus on was you and the fact that you were hanging off the arm of a murderer. Everyone seemed to have so quickly forgotten that this man killed Howard and Maria Stark.

The moment you unlatched yourself from Bucky's side to go to the bar, Pietro descent upon you.

Your heightened senses barely register the high velocity sound that you associated with Quicksilver. Half a step back was all you were able to make before you heard his husky voice "You find killers sexy?"

His question rakes claw marks against your mind. "What?"

A mocking laugh puffs out of him and he rolls his eyes over in Bucky's direction. "The Winter Soldier. You like the fact that he's murdered innocent people?"

On edge, you notice in your periphery how people were starting to turn to look your way. The volume of Pietro's voice was gradually starting to rise and draw onlookers.

Flushing and attempting to retain your composure, you keep your shoulders back confidently. “Looks like you’ve had too much to drink.” Your eyes search the crowd for Wanda so that she could take him home before he said or did anything he’d regret later. You couldn’t see her or her floating man among the many bobbing heads. Even unable to find Bucky despite his stature.

“Deflecting the question, I see.” Pietro smugly smirks at you; a sway in the step that he took forward. “Shall I raise my voice so you can hear better?”

You narrow your eyes into deadly slits as you squint at him. He was clearly not in his right mind. “What do you want, Pietro?” What was this sudden change in him about? The moment your relationship became public knowledge, Pietro had been pissy ever since. He was the one who rejected you. The one who told you that you shouldn't date because you're coworkers. He had no right to be jealous.

Bucky suggested a few weeks ago that Pietro may still be interested in you. Proposed that his peaked interest must have been from seeing you and Bucky together. At the time you laughed it off. A corner of your mind was screaming at you to listen to him.

Not appreciating how closely he leaned into you, Pietro snarls "That guy has taken numerous, innocent lives. How could you fuck someone with that kind of blood on their hands?" Now you were sure more and more people were pulling out their phones and recording to send to whatever social media platform.

Heat rises off of your cheeks as they blare like alarms. You felt your body tremble not because you were afraid, no, you tremble under the weight of your own fury. Your powers rattled the bars of the cage you kept it in. Clenching down hard against your back teeth with the effort to keep them at bay.

"You know why he did those terrible things. It wasn't him." Growling softly you try desperately to keep a semblance of a calm tone. You were never the type to show your anger. The public might turn against you if they see you break from Pietro's cruel words. Even the bits you were letting slip was enough for your audience to know you were beyond furious. "He was under HYDRA mind control. You of all people should understand the ways HYDRA implements their tools of pain." It wasn't working.

You needed Bucky before you really snapped your last strand of patience.

At least Pietro had enough sense to take a step away from you. In his drunken stupor, he hadn't noticed the crowd. Dozens of people holding up their smartphones, a few reporters who were allowed in were snapping bright pictures. That's when he saw Bucky and Wanda toward him.

Wanda uses her power to wrap him up in scarlet bindings and drag him to where she stood at the cusp of the crowd. She spits something out in Sokovian toward him, motioning for Bucky to go to your side and get you out of there. He looked more ready to rip Pietro apart but valued your wellbeing over all else and easily strode to you.

He slings a protective arm around your shoulders, pulling you closer to his side in an attempt to keep you out of the sight of cameras.

Those involved were taken back to Avengers HQ so the situation could be straightened out. That is, after Fury was done yelling at everyone for how they acted at what was supposed to be an extravagant gala. Admonished how you and Pietro were acting like dramatic high schoolers with your stunt and how this would definitely tarnish the reputation of earth's mightiest heroes. Pietro was still as drunk as a skunk, hissing at everyone who tried to get near him. Only being held back by Wanda who was still yelling at him in Sokovian. As everyone argued back and forth, only you and Bucky remained quiet.

A small upside could be found. Though it was quite the public altercation, popularity for you and Bucky as a couple sky rocketed. Within the hours of it happening, many social media websites exploded with praise at how you defended your man.

That news wasn't enough to make anyone happy at the moment.

Seeing that nothing would be resolved with such bickering, Bucky clears his throat to draw everyone's attention to him. "May I get a word with Pietro alone?"

Fury doesn't look like he wants to allow it. He was assured though that if anything were to happen, Bucky would be able to stand on his own and fend off an angry Pietro. His single dark eye roves around the room before conceding to Bucky's request.

Motive unclear, you arch a brow in his direction. He just offers you a smile and leans toward you to say "It'll be alright. Jus' wanna talk to him."

"I've seen you 'just talk' to people before." You remind him trying to keep your voice stern. "Don't make things worse. Okay?"

"Yes ma'am." That smirk of his will be the death of you, you just know it. There's a silent exchange between you and Wanda who finally relinquishes her scarlet restraints on her twin brother. Pietro staggers without the additional support that held him up.

"Fifteen minutes. Cameras are rolling." Fury warns as he escorts the others out.

Comfortably strolling forward, Bucky pulls out one of the conference chairs that had been entirely ignored. "Take a seat, Maximoff." Immediately there's a snarl curling Pietro's lips until Bucky rolls his eyes. "Or stand. Doesn't matter I guess. Just, listen to me for a moment."

Inebriated individuals don't understand reason, too caught up in their own tilted perception. He wants to do anything else but listen to Bucky prattle on about how he needs to back off of you. That you belonged to him now and how he wouldn't tolerate Pietro's pursuit of you.

Luck appeared to be on Bucky's side for the alcohol was wearing off of Pietro as he started to lose his steam and reluctantly slink down into the chair opposite Bucky's. His dark eyes hold steady onto the metal armed man. Remembering all too clear the stories that HYDRA would tell him and Wanda about the best operative they've ever had: the Winter Soldier. Would this legend of a man be able to hold off Pietro's speed attacks if he were to try?

Honestly he was tired of being angry. Emotions both positive and negative were siphoned out of him until there was nothing left.

Bucky could see that.

"Whatever we say here, stays here." Bucky speaks again, each word cruelly clipped. They strike Pietro like small arrows. Nothing could prepare him for the dead eyed glare that now pinned him to his chair. "Your behavior stops here. I've been more than patient. Held my tongue and my fist when I wanted to knock some sense into you. I didn't, for her sake since she didn't want to cause any trouble among the team. But you're spoiled brat act can't be tolerated anymore. You embarrassed all of us at the gala and made the Avengers look like fools."

His metal hand curls its fingers inwards toward his palm before releasing; an attempt to calm himself before his tone became too heated.

Pietro waits for any sign of movement for Bucky as the larger man deeply inhales. Finally, Bucky's eyes flick back up to him. "I get it."

With a heavy tongue, Pietro croaks out "Get what?"

"I know why and what has fueled your actions. Underneath it all you may have possibly loved her. You're upset that you lost your chance with her. It sucks, it has to to lose someone as amazing as her. I couldn't imagine. . ."

There's a flicker of anger at how the Winter Soldier spoke to him. Reminded Pietro of when his father would scold him as a child.

Bucky's voice soften when he detects the subtle twitch of Pietro's nose. He promised you that he wouldn't escalate things. "I'm sorry. I feel for you. But. . . I'm not going to be stupid enough to let her go. As long as she'll have me, she's mine."

He wanted to ignore the sincerity that warmed Bucky's words. Wanted to keep what little resentment remained inside.

Abruptly, Bucky stands from his chair; bottom of the legs scraping against the floor and startling Pietro in the process. In half a second, Pietro is up on his feet, taking a defensive position. Though his movements were sloppy as his perception was still muddled from his quickly consumed drinks.

Whatever camaraderie had been built between them in those short minutes of Bucky talking was gone. Back were those assassin sharp eyes. "If you upset her one more time, it won't be me you'll have to deal with. It will be the Winter Soldier coming after you. And I can guarantee not even your speed will be able to stop that monster."

"I told you."

He didn't want to hear it from Wanda right now. Damn her for always being right. Right now he just wanted to forget how he made such an ass of himself in front of so many people. When he wasn't trying to fend off his massive hangover migraine he was scrolling through social media, coming upon videos of how he spat in your face saying all sorts of cruel and vindictive things to you. So many mean comments slandering Quicksilver and adoring the hero couple.

In an attempt to drown out Wanda, Pietro grabs his pillow and lays it over his head.

That wouldn't stop her as she was on the war path. He'd hurt her best friend.

Red tendrils of her power rip his pillow off of his head. Pietro hisses in response and whips his head to narrow his eyes in her direction. "You're going to apologize to her. Because if you don't and pull this kind of shit again, Bucky is going to kill you and I won't be able to stop him. You're an idiot for not realizing how protective he is of her." She mumbles something about how lucky he was that Bucky hadn't smashed his face in the conference room during their private chat.

Quiet for a moment, Pietro sits up and leans his back against the bed's headboard. "I know. . . I know I've fucked everything up. I just. . ."

Wanda still has her arms crossed in front of her chest, posture vibrating with the need to throttle her twin. The frostiness in her expression slackens though at Pietro finally admitting that he was in the wrong. Not like she got satisfaction out of it. It pained her watching her brother act like a total dick head toward her best friend. It wasn't long ago that she thought you and Pietro would make a nice couple.

He sighs and runs a hand through his ash blonde hair, repeating "I've fucked everything up."

"At least you're owning up to it." quietly points out Wanda.

Time was necessary for all wounds to heal. That applied toward the ones Pietro had caused. He gave you space for two days before he came up to you to ask for a private word; promising he'd behave and that he just wanted to apologize for everything. Even told you about what Bucky had said to him.

You knew he told the truth because his face was the definition of genuine remorse and repentance.

For most of his speech he looked at his hands, but when he dared to glance up at you Pietro would hold your gaze. His earnestness brimming in his blue eyes. For so long they had been darkened by his discontent. Now they remind you of the pretty bright hue they used to be.

After a moment of silence, Pietro hesitantly asks "Are you happy with him? Truly?"

"I am. I've never been this happy in my entire life. He makes me happy." A bright smile flourishes on your face. "I love him."

Pietro nods.

"Hey, even if things didn't work out romantically with us doesn't mean I don't want to be friends with you. I do. We had fun as friends." You bump him with your elbow.

A wisp of a smile beckons at his lips but couldn't quite get all the way there. "I'd like that. Eventually. . ."

"Eventually." You repeat in agreement.

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valiantphantomangel · 29 days ago

Note

Hey hey! :D I have a small request if you have time and want to! Soo if you got time and want to could you pls write ler!loki with lee!female reader? Maybe Loki somehow finds out the oh so tough agent that’s been constantly teasing him (back) is ticklish and that adorably so? Feel free to add whatever :)

I wish a great day/night and feel free to just skip the ask ^^

A/n: I hope you enjoy and I'm so sorry that it took so long!

The oh so tough agent.

A V's scareoween special.

You hide your emotions well, Loki had to admit that but he wasn't called the God of mischief, lies and stories just because it sounded cool.

It all happened late one night, Tony had decided to break out the Halloween decorations and you were walking around to look at all of them.

You had never really had a Halloween party, no matter how bad you wanted it because it wasn't really popular in your country but now walking around under all the decorations.

It made you a little emotional, you had always tried to be indifferent about everything but when you were alone, you showed how you really felt.

All though you weren't completely alone.

Loki was standing in a shadowy corner, watching as awe filled your eyes.

Just as you turned around to look at the somehow floating pumpkin's you heard a voice behind you "Well well well, who would have thought the tough little agent wasn't so tough after all"

"Loki! What are you doing here?!" You gasped as you turned around. Your mask falling back into place.

He didn't respond, just walked over to you and stood beside you. Looking up at the giant jack-o'-lantern that Stark put up.

"You know, if I didn't know any better I would say you're quite a nice person" you said trying to act a lot colder then you are.

"Do you?"

"Do I what?"

"Know better?"

Without any further or do Loki literally launched himself at you and tackled you onto the carpet.

"Loki! What in the high heavens are you doing!" You yell as you try and fight your way out of his grip.

"You, my little agent, may think that your good at hiding this but I've seen your little smiles when my oaf of a brother chases Sargeant Barnes when he threatens to steal his pop tarts, or when Wilson managed to blow something up again" Loki said as he pulled your arms above your head and pinned them there "But you also have a very different reaction, how your face turns slightly red when Stark tickles the spiderling when he's feeling down. I wonder why that would have any effect on you"

He slowly, teasingly unbuckled your bullet proof vest that you always wore and lightly traced your ribs over your thin shirt.

"Could it be that the tough S. H. I. E. L. D agent... Is devastatingly ticklish?"

"I have no idea what you're talking abHIHIHI" you couldn't even finish your sentence as Loki suddenly prodded at your ribs.

"My my i guess that means that I'm right" he muttered as he slowly inched his hands to rest on your ribs.

"Loki we can talk about this" you said with a nervous giggle.

He stilled for a moment before giving you his famous smirk "you should have thought about that before you started teasing me back" before diving in without mercy.

You let out a scream of laughter and your back arched, you legs fought around to get out of his death grip.

"LOKIHIHHIHI!" you screamed through your laughter as he suddenly switched to your hip bones, how he knew where you where ticklish was beyond where you could think right now.

"Who knew the agent could be so adorable" he mused as he spidered around before blowing a long raspberry in-between your neck and shoulder.

"HAHAHHAHHAHHA" your face was red and a wide smile split your face in half you didn't even know that you were this ticklish.

After what felt like hours he finally let up but continues to sit on your waist.

"If you tell- anyone about this I'm going to kill you" you said through gasps of air but unfortunately your smile betrayed your death threat.

"Yeah I've heard that one before" Loki said with a grin, he stood up and pulled you up as well even though your legs felt like jelly.

"I'll see you later, little agent" he said with a smirk before disappearing.

As you walked back to your room you slowly began to realise something, he never said he wouldn't tell anyone.

#v's scareoween #tickle fic #lee!reader #marvel tickle #ticklish!reader #ticklish ribs #request #ler!loki #loki laufeyson #s.h.i.e.l.d.

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missmarveledsblog · 2 months ago

Text

It's only pretend right ? ( Bucky barnes x reader) Part 4

summary : after such a good night she bring bucky to show him where they were sleeping which was also her childhood bedroom . finding new thing he never knew as she see what nat and wanda packed for her bedtime attire leading to one of a few moments the two have , she is faced to deal with the past fears while tony stumble on to something to cure his boredom

warning: ok so i know i said it was a fluffy series but there's a little bit of angst but it's for plot but its mostly fluffy , allusion to past trauma , shitty family , her sibling being goals and steve and nat being well honestly the GOATS .

Previous part

The night ended on good note as she led him to her room , trying to steady her nerves . while a nervous Bucky was taking in the space , girly and yet not a perfect balance that described Y/N to a T. He walked around exploring the space chuckling at the books on her desk, volumes of science and engineering books. He noticed the army leaflets already knowing her family were very big on it, giving her grandfather and other men with the exception of Jack .

“Were you going to enlist?” he asked, holding it up .

“ I was then but well i didn’t” she smiled sadly.

“ Well your job now isn’t far off” he mused.

“Why do you think i like it so much , youngest female avenger too which is an achievement” she beamed.

“ Hey no, I feel like a creepy old man when you say that,” he joked.

“ I mean 107 and your fake girlfriend is 24 practically a cradle snatcher” she mused a squeaked when he pounced on her knocking her on to the bed bursting into a fit of giggles as he tickled her side. “Ok ok tapping out” she panted eyes locked on the man above her . she could fully appreciate the full extent of the blue of his eyes , once filled with such sorrow and coldness now sparkling like the clearest ocean. She felt it like a magnetic pull as his face came closer to hers .

“ hey you two keep it down” her brother banged the door, his voice a teasing and jestering tone but the two separated and moments before lost.

“ we should sleep , you got church run tomorrow” she almost whispered.

“ Yeah, where is that?” he snorted, trying to calm his own heart beat down. He was sure he was going to kiss her and even more sure she was going to kiss him back .

“ GPS will be your best friend , i’ll get Jessie tag along , grandma can’t say no” she shrugged, opening her case only for her cheek to go deep red. “ I'm going to kill those two” she whined, seeing the bed clothes consisted of a short night dress or crop top and shorts.

“ you ok doll?” he asked. “ yeah nat and wanda packed the case and well..” she held up the night dress making his throat instantly dry up .

“fuck” he muttered wondering if the widow was intending on killing him. “ it’s nice .. i mean perfect for the heat” he rambled trying to think of anything else. She pulled out shorts although short still better to put under the night dress as she headed to her bathroom .

“ I'm going to die” was all Bucky said before the door opened and she shyly walked out . He stood not knowing whether to praise god for the sight or curse him given the situation. She honestly looked ethereal walking out of that bathroom as the clothing of choice hugged her body in every right way that was possible.

“ I can see if my mama has something,” she said, flushing.

“ no you look cozy doll” he smiled grabbing the tank top and plaid bottom he would hoped hid how he really thought she looked.

Laying on the bed after texting her fellow female avengers some colorful messages on their choice of her bed clothes , she looked up, almost dropping her phone when the bathroom door opened. She didn’t know what was going to kill her first , her embarrassment of how exposed she was sharing the bed with her best friend she was in love with or the man in question looking like sex on legs . seeing bucky either partially clothed or shirtless sent her into a short circuited mess, no matter how many times she had seen it was always like the first time. The way her mouth simultaneously went dry and water all in one as her eyes raked over his muscled form. Every toned muscle almost fought the confines of his tank top , to which she was grateful and personally offended at the item of clothing .

“ Your grandmother isn’t going to make me go into the church with her right” the question from his lips snapping her from the trance she was in .

“ no … i’m not sure” she tilted her head.

“ I'm pretty sure I might burst into a ball of flames if I step foot in a church now,” he chuckled .

“ don't do that last time it happened, the pastor passed out” the words out of her mouth made his head turn to see if she was joking or not but she was serious. “ i didn’t know how to control my abilities or as my family keep calling it my gift” she snorted seeing the shock on his face.

“ Speaking of , you never told you how you got them , I mean none of the team knows,” he said, only to see a shiver run down her spine and pain expression on her face.

“ I don't talk about it fury and nat know and wanda because she saw it in my head but i don’t talk about it” her voice trembled and eyes filled with tears.

“ hey hey it’s ok we’re not going to talk about it , hey doll sorry look lets rest ok come here” he rubbed her cheek pulling her to his side hands running up and down her back . he could feel her calming down at the motion . When he looked down to see her eyes getting heavy and closing . He let himself enjoy the moment , how her eyelashes grace the tops of her cheeks , plump pink lips parting slightly. The even beats her heart before he hit the lights . For the first time in his life Bucky Barnes fell asleep with a smile on his face .

Sun peaking throughout the room when he was the one to wake first. Sound of muffled whispers forgotten instantly when he felt her head nuzzling in the crook of his neck , her arm across his chest and her leg over his . he didn’t even think but he felt himself pulling her closer to his body making a little whimper fall from her lips that was the moment he was sure he turned to a puddle on the bed . His eyes closed as the door swung open .

“ hey … erm wake up” Jack's voice almost trembled in the room keeping his distance at the door.

“ Go away” she groaned before freezing up at the position she’d realized she was in .

“ Come on , you too bucky” he called a bit further away .

“ I'm up” he rasped, making her bite her lip hard at the sounds that threatened to spill out . the sexy gravel of his voice made her brain go blank. “ baby doll” this man was surely going to kill her. “ time to get up” his head lifted, kissing her cheek eliciting a sound that none of them ever heard out of the girl in the morning before . “ Did she just … she giggled” Jessie almost sent his little brother flying when he barged into the room, shocked at the sound.

“ Get out before I’ll make you bald with no eyebrows,” she glared.

“ You did giggle doll,” he chuckled.

“ yeah ok , morning sarge” she yawned . The nickname made all blood in the man's body rush down south in turn making him rush towards the bathroom confusing her slightly.

“ hey giggles park that ass” Izzy held up the brush as her younger sister whined. “ hey we need , well i need to tell you something since you scared off the other two” her voice dropped slightly.

“ if it’s because you're nervous don't be, maya will say yes' ' the younger sister smiled brightly. '' no it’s not that .. look we aint happy about it either but Emma , Leah and Cassie are coming for breakfast” she instantly felt her sister shake. “ hey hey look at me , we can go out for breakfast , we don’t have to be here” Izzy crouched down seeing the fear in her eyes.

“ sorry nature called… hey what wrong” bucky rushed to her side.

“ our cousin.. She ever tells you how she got her gift .. of course she didn't , now our cousins well. They say what happened was an accident which is a pile of horse shit but it was her gift that came after , she was hurt badly .. like we didn’t .. sorry we didn’t think she would make it “ izzy explained fighting back the tears.

"Why are they here then?” Bucky asked, seeing it wasn’t just her finding it difficult to talk about whatever happened and to say he was curious wasn’t a lie.

“ some bullshit they fed mama about grandma getting old , we ain’t happy , dads not happy” she seethed.

“ Cassie was a kid she’s not like them” Y/N Said softly remembering the poor girl's face just as terrified as she was.

“Apparently they want time with grandma since she is not getting younger it’s pile of crap and for some reason the folks on my mama’s side , well for some reason they're always hard on her after the whole thing they’ve been worse , i’m sure you’ve clued in on that” .

“ Just let's get this over with. I'm fine , I've fought aliens , talked to a tree and a raccoon from space so i can do this” Y/N Shook her head walking to her bathroom . “ Did she just say a raccoon and tree from space?”.

“ The tree’s ok , the raccoon got hell of a shot but bit of an ass” Bucky agreed.

“ i … what” izzy stood completely confused to the change of conversation .

She walked out wearing the summer dress , the prettiest of the ones she owned, wanting to look somewhat good , only to see Bucky standing there with a sympathetic smile on his face, making her truly regret bringing him in first place.

“ ready?” she asked .

“ We can go out and tell them it's a date,” he smiled softly.

“ no i can do it” she stood straighter, his arm linking in hers. She only got to the middle of the stair when she heard them laughing, making her shake only to shake it off before continuing down the stairs.

“ I'm here doll” he whispered, kissing her cheek letting his lips linger on her skin . “ Hey kitty saved you and bucky a seat” Jessie called, turning everyone’s attention to the two .

“ Oh my god look at you girl” the two eldest girls rushed to her side pulling her into a hug making her tense completely up and the flames flicker on her finger causing bucky to pull her to him wrapping his arm around her waist probably enjoying more than he should. “ And who is this?” the woman's eyes almost ate him whole.

“ I'm her boyfriend James Barnes” he nodded, barely smiled to the girl's dismay but kept the flirty grins all for y/n and affection looking towards her .

“ So it’s true you are an avenger how about that, did you show james around town” the woman spoke barely sparing her cousin a glance.

“ Not yet actually we’re going to go after we drop grandma to church” she smiled. It was so fake and forced, causing her siblings to share worried glances.

“ doll let's get our seats” he kissed her cheek again nuzzling his face in hers making her giggle.

“Oh he is so mine” the woman whispered to her sister before they walked into the dinning room .

“ good to see the silliness is done with” her aunt spoke up .

“ attempted murder isn’t exactly silliness,” Jessie gritted, even causing Bucky to shoot the man .

“ What was that?” her aunt asked.

“ oh he's just happy to be home” Y/N gave that fake smile .

“ So what, like being avenger do you guys get invited to parties and stuff” .

“ Emma, their avengers of course they do”her aunt smiled obviously seeing what her daughter was at.

“Yeah but we prefer not going to them. Attention seeking isn’t exactly what we do it, "Bucky shrugged.

“ my friends think it’s so cool your avenger” cassie spoke up, almost afraid to even talk.

“ Maybe we could Facetime them when we're back” she smiled softly to the girl.

“ We'd like to facetime too, maybe visit?” .

“ we’re busy all the time, sorry,” Bucky shrugged, making her smirk.

“ oh i get that so how new is this since you guys aren’t in the press” emma smiled .

“ si…” she went to speak. “ a year right” her dad smiled looking at bucky.

“ yeah we thought to enjoy our time instead of the world” bucky lied easily .

“ keeping that secret from your family,” her aunt shook her head.

“ she doesn't talk to you guys all the time ,we knew '' Izzy smiled checking her phone just as Y/N went off.

“ it's tony?” she furrowed her brows.

“ we better take this , it could be urgent. '' Bucky smiled secretly thankful for stark interruption as the two headed for her fathers office .

“ What's wrong, everyone, ok” she asked, instantly answering the phone.

“can’t a guy call his friends,” Tony rolled his eyes.

“ Who said we’re friends?” bucky asked.

“ Hey you kill my parents, the least you can do is be my friend” tony teased.

“ you can’t keep pulling dead parents card.. Tony why did you ring and please tell me this is a long conversation” she asked.

“ ok well nat on her way so is steve they left after your sister rang this morning , you ok?” he asked clearly, knowing more than he was letting on .

“ you read my file,” she sighed.

“ Only the locked part , my lips are sealed well. Steve read it too but after that lips seal” he winked.

“ Fury told me he was going to get rid of it” she whispered.

“ Well he didn’t but really kid you ok” he asked more seriously.

“ As much as i’d love to let you talk in code but the jet's landing” Bucky called looking out the window.

“ oh shit , bye tony here talk to your guilt trip bestie ” she threw bucky her phone before heading out the front door ignoring the calls of her family. The minute the jet door opened and the angry redhead was storming out nothing was scarier than a pissed off widow.

“ Hey nat wait” she stood in front of the widow.

“ hey good see you, they in there?” she went to walk around what nat didn’t expect was her best friend to hop on her back .

“ You can’t beat up my family members, even the shittiest ones, please stop for me” she pouted, making nat’s movement halt.

“ I won't beat them up , there are many ways to kill a person” she smirked .

“ no ok i’m not letting anyone stoop to their level please.. Wait did you say kill ” her eyes widened .

“ Fine but I'm staying till they're gone and I don't mean today I mean when they go back home completely” she moved, smiling and waving to the audience forming on her front porch.

“ Natasha, what a lovely surprise,” her mother smiled.

“ hello beth sorry for crashing but i was missing my favorite avenger so was steve” nat smiled .

“You guys didn’t need to come out for me,” Bucky teased.

“ They're talking about me bucket ” Y/N smiled, turning to Steve, catching a frown on his face . “ smile cap” she whispered only for the PR smile to grace his face.

“ nice to meet you all” he smiled only for a high pitched shriek to come out and all head turning to jack .

“Steve jack here is your biggest fan” she laughed as her brother's cheek was bright red.

“ all of you guys i mean we got three avengers here” she could have sworn the man was going to float at one stage.

“ well aren’t we lucky to have two gorgeous beefcakes here? '' Emma and Leah lit up. “ Do we sound creepy like that?” Izzy asked.

“ Nah, they're like shining twins, we’re more cool twins ” Jack said, ignoring the glares his way.

“ How long are you staying?” Beth beamed.

“ As long as Y/N is , if that’s ok “ nat smiled as they all made their way into the house what the rest didn’t notice was the terror twins pushing in front of Y/N So they were directly behind bucky and steve.

“ Great” she trailed behind only for Jessie to stand at the door waiting for her with a mischievous smile on his face.

“What did you do?” she arched her brow.

“ nothing at all” he held the bottle of laxatives up .

“ oh loki would love you” she chuckled as they headed into the room seeing her mother bringing an extra plate of food for nat and steve.

“ You didn’t have to do that ma’am but thank you ” Steve nodded.

“ So you got a girlfriend steve” leah purred even their grandmother grimaced.

“ no but i called dib on Y/N if he screws up sam and pietro didn’t like that” he teased laughing when bucky glared at him .

“ Some say I should be a model. What do you think, bucky?” Emma batted her lashes. “ i love that dress on you y/n” nat smiled softly.

“ Nat’s right You look beautiful doll” Bucky flashed her flirty grin .

“ Emma you ok” Jessie asked faux concern as they all looked at the suddenly sweaty girl . the loud gurgles making her cheek turn beet red.

“ you look clammy dear” .

“ i don’t feel so ..oh my god” she ran out the door a loud noise following after.

“ Hey, wait me first,” Leah chased .

“ Jesus, what’s that smell?” Bucky yelled .

“ Let's take grandma to church” she got up as Jessie smoothly threw the bottle only for Cassie to laugh.

“ What are you laughing at” her mother screeched, running to check on her other two daughters.

“ nothing mom” she snorted before taking the bottle from y/n and hiding it in a vase giving her older cousin a wink .

“ What did you do?” Nat asked with a proud smile on her lips .

“ I didn't “ .

“ i did” jessie walked out proud as punch .

“ you ready ma'am?” Bucky asked, holding the door open.

“ Of course I am , now you listen here young man you don’t let a girl like her go or else maybe super cadet or whatever but she’s my grandchild ” she warned just as y/n came out the house.

“ Got your bag grandmama” she beamed.

“ Thank you dear” the woman nodded as Bucky closed the door .

“ you ok bucky?” she asked, wondering if the whole thing was too much .

“ I think she threatened me,” he whispered, opening her door for her.

“ Doubt it black sheep of the family” she snorted before he closed the door.

“ we will collect you after ok grandma i’ll show bucky around” she called.

“ Hopefully, air the house out before we get back” the older woman grumbled, causing the two to break out in laughter.

“ if it isn’t i’ll get you the top room in the best hotel” she wiped the tears from her eyes. “ They pay you enough for that,” the woman asked.

“ course” she lied putting tony’s black card in her bag making bucky chuckled .

“ How do you get that?” he asked.

“ gave a stark big hug” she winked.

“ ok let’s get this fine lady to church” he shook his head.

“ you ready to get your praying on grandma” she cheered .

“ It's a church not a hip hop concert don’t be silly” the woman tried hiding the smile but Bucky caught it in the rear view mirror .

The drive into town was a nice change of pace compared to the events of the morning they had . But also gave her realization of guilt that she hidden so much and basically had him blindly walk into the chaos that was her family . So when they waved her grandmother off and reassured the pastor she wasn't going in making the holy man pale and rush off , she was going to be more open with him .

“ Ok time for the grand tour , no flash photography and stay with the group please “ she said dramatically.

“ Very authentic doll “ he chuckled, linking his arm in her, something they did normally yet the touches lately felt different, somehow more intimate.

“ It's nice here , less chaotic than New York that's for sure “ he smiled, moving his arm to wrap it around her shoulder when he noticed men looking at her .

“ I love it here but I love New York. Both are home , both have family which is funny because when I blindly followed eli to new york at first I was freshly gone 19 . He wanted to be wallstreet, I wanted to support him much use that did two days later I was on my own , scared trying to figure out how get home when dude tried to mug me , I may have burnt him a little but cop seen me put me in a cell ,all I kept thinking i was ET” she mused.

“ E.T ? “ he snorted.

“ you know the part about the guys in white coats , but I got a bald man with eye patch and trench coat giving me a job “ .

"Wait, that's how you ended up in shield?” He asked .

“ the very same a year later on the day I was twenty fury called nat and wanda down to train me because I may have burnt an agent or two” she bit her lip making him wish it was him biting it instead , or how the sunlight hit her like her own person spotlight showing her beauty even more . “ a week later I bump into this grumpy bear of a guy who gave out to me” she elbowed him softly.

“ I remember the little spitfire shield agent giving as good as she got” he nudged her back catching her when she stumbled forward.

“ you know that day may be bad for you but was best day of my life” she smiled .

“ I thought the best day of your life was 2 years ago when fury finally let us have you “ he teased .

“ nah definitely 4 years ago when my little 20 year old self sassed the old man who happens to be her favorite person and best friend” she giggled when he spun her to face him.

“ old man?” He leaned forward that magnetic pull once again .

“ Very “ she bit her lip, a pink flush across her cheek , heart beating so face he wasn't sure if it was hers or his or both .

“ you know that morning Wanda read me my horoscope and I laughed at her but I never doubted it when I met you '' he leaned in more, almost ghosting her lips .

'' What did it say ” she asked, leaning in.

“ hey kitty” a voice called, making her head turn and bucky wanting to punch whoever owned the voice .

“ Eli”she almost growled

“ Look I know you're still mad at me but I mean it worked out for you” he smiled almost like he was taking credit.

“ yeah it did lead me to the best job and boyfriend a girl could have “ she leaned up kissing his cheek.

“ yeah i see that” he nodded smile faltering the longer they stood .

“ Look I came over because I heard they were there and I wanted to make sure you're ok” he said she could almost see the honesty .

“ i’m fine nat and steve came by so i didn’t have to think about it long enough” she shrugged.

“ wait as in black widow and captain america “ he almost sounded annoyed which was strange for her both he and jack both love avengers another reason he wanted to live in New york .

“ that a problem?” Bucky asked.

“ no i just didn’t expect so many avengers to be here … anyways i got to go” he rushed off almost knocking her down only for Bucky to catch her .

“ That was strange right?” He looked down at her .

“ very , also thanks, come on we go diner on the corner and get the best milkshakes you will ever taste” she pulled him along not really wanna keep thinking about her ex and his oddities .

She walked into the diner and also fell over yet again when she heard the scream.

“ KITTY , MARVIN KITTY’S HERE” the waitress screamed.

“ Martha, good to see you too and hear you ” she chuckled .

“ Oh my baby” the woman cooed, hugging her tightly.

“ I can't breathe, “ she giggled .

“ Who is this?” she let her go only to look down and see their hands still connected. “MARVIN OUR BABY BROUGHT A MAN WITH HER” .

“ AND DEAFEND US '' Y/N called.

“ ok come on in , i’ll give you the best seat in the house” she led them to a booth knowing it was Y/N favorite spot.

“ I'll give you time to love over menu “ martha smiled leaving them alone.

“ I'm guessing you came here a lot,” he chuckled .

“ Every chance she got … sorry” Martha turned around .

“ what she said my dad took used to take us here for treat night too” she smiled brightly.

“ she used to do her homework in that very booth” a gruff voice spoke.

“ Hey Marvin, how did you know we were here?” she teased.

“ I have a feeling, I guess” he tapped his chin .

“ Funny you two” Martha rolled her eyes, still smiling.

“ Marvin and martha this is jame bucket barnes , my ..” she faded off watching the black suv trailing down street something about it was odd yet familiar she couldn’t quite put her finger on it .

“ boyfriend and it’s buchanan not bucket” he shook their hand . “ doll?” he waved his hand over her face before following her line of view.

“ sorry just erm … nothing we will have the bacon burgers and brownie supreme for me” .

“ same also extra fries please” bucky smiled as they walked off. “ Ok, what was that?” he asked.

“ nothing really just seen suv it’s like one i always saw drive by when i was kid i mean not the same one but almost every time i’m here “ she shook her head realizing she probably sounded nuts. “ Just a strange sort of thing that happens, it's nothing bucky” she giggled . Her words seemly not calming him down in the slightest giving he was more alert then some. “ If I get stark to check the registration will you chill” she asked, pulling her phone out.

“ for now, yes,” he nodded .

“ Done and in time here is our food and easily the best milkshakes in the whole world” she smiled brightly as they thanked them for the food.

Tony Stark stood confused and a little happy that she text gave him something to do giving everyone was on mission and well others were on the ranch.

“ what did Y/N buy her own ranch with your card or do we need to bail nat out of jail” bruce chuckled .

“ No, she asked me to check a registration because she accidentally made Bucky paranoid. I need more context so excuse me one second” he walked out the lab and hit the call. “ hey pyro on the prairie , what’s going on? “ he could hear her eyes rolling at the nickname.

“ we’re at the diner , i came here all time but every time i was here i would see an suv pass by , it’s nothing i mean just one of those things but now my fake boyfriends head is spinning like an owl” she explained as he could here bucky telling her it was strange . “ could be nothing but i’ll check it out now and text you when i find out , you wouldn’t know the other ones would you” he asked hopeful tone in his voice.

“ check my desk , blue note book very back” i always had written them down to check them one day never got around to it , oh and thanks for lunch stank tell everyone i love them and miss them” she sang before hanging up .

“ lets check this out” he clapped his hand walking into the lab heading straight to her desk and retrieving said notebook .

“ everything ok” bruce asked.

“ our little fire friend has been keeping track of past reg numbers so i’ll check them out and kill five minutes ….. Or not” tony voice went completely blank as he looked at the screen .

“ what , what is it” bruce asked concerned etched on his face.

“ why have shield issued vehicles been following Y/N around , not just the diner too” tony scratched back of his neck wondering why fury left that piece of information out.

“ you sure it’s shield ?” bruce asked looking at the screen .

“ you know its insulting little respect you have in my intelligence, it’s right there” he scoffed pointing to the screen .

“ not what i meant , shield wasn’t always shield tony?” bruce hinted.

“ F.R.I.D.A.Y. call fury and get him here ASAP” He called out going straight to the main shield server. “ what you doing?” .

“ finding out what going on “ a frown deeply etched into his forehead.

“ should we warn them i mean what if she in danger” bruce began pacing. “ ring nat fill her in but tell them to hold off saying anything to the kid we don’t want to worry her unless she needs to” tony nodded as bruce pulled out his phone.

“ You sure bruce , ok i’ll tell steve now”nat smiled not wanting to give anything away in company of her fellow avenger and best friends family.

“ Hey Steve Stark, think one of the files on our jet , can you help me look for it, apparently it's important” she asked but her eyes told a different story .

“ Of course excuse us please” Steve stood following her out wondering what the hell was going on .

“ nat ?” .

“ short story y/n got tony look into some reg plates , she notice the same kind of car she always sees when she in town and well apparently shield’s been watching her since a kid, i mean could be nothing but then again it’s us so he just asked us keep eye out while he looks into it. He’s called for fury to come compound too “ she bit her lip not really liking it at all .

“ if they’ve been watching since a kid ..that goes back to when shield … Do you think it’s hydra” he asked .

“ I really hope i’m wrong and say it’s not but why wait this long and why Y/N” she shook her head.

“ We have to tell them” Steve walked into the jet.

“ no tony was right when he said not to say anything unless there is something to worry about”.

“ she could be in danger nat” he almost felt sick saying it knowing bucky was definitely going to flip out.

“ I don't like it either but I think we should wait until we know more just for now even” she almost pleaded .

“ Fine for now” he huffed wondering how the hell he was going to even hide this from them.

It wasn’t long after finishing their food and saying their goodbyes and promises to come back. The rest of the tour was given , only to stop a couple of times to say hello to people she’d known and old friends . Bucky couldn’t help standing a little taller when she would call him hers even if it wasn’t true but still he wanted to pretend for now it was. They walked back at perfect timing for the service to be over helping her grandmother back to the car as she gave out about the pastor but said service was good .

“ So grandma you excited for a night out in a couple nights , jack gonna pop the question to helen” she asked turning herself to look at the woman.

“ Well about time I thought I'd be dead and gone before that boy made an honest woman of her”.

“ they’ve been together since high school “ she whispered to bucky . “ hey grandma did you know you would marry pop pop” she asked.

“ god no , he was my first friend when his family moved in next door , did everything together , then war happened and we both signed up but got stationed in different parts i was a nurse and he was a private then we got stationed together , we used to sneak and meet up one night i saw him differently , i didn’t see him as the scrawny scraper got into trouble all time anymore i saw my world and my future” the elderly woman smiled fondly and sadly all in one thinking of her late husband .

“ he died six years ago” y/n whispered as they all felt the change in emotions .

“ sorry” he nodded looking to both of them .

“ he’s how she got her nickname , my husband gave it to her , see our y/n was a little troublemaker , mischievous and headstrong still is , he’d say she was a little misbehaving kitten adorable as hell but can’t take your eyes off her for a second, one day she was running around like a little tornado broke her mothers favorite vase which i don’t know why thing was hideous but she ran off scared to be told off when my husband check outside he could hear little sniffle from the tree above” the three laughed but he could see the tear forming in both womens eyes .

“ yeah he took one look at me and said my darn we got a little kitty in the tree , helped out and brought me to the diner” she wiped her cheeks.

” he did always spoil you huh?” her grandmother smiled softly seeing bucky hand holding hers before continuing to drive.

“ so kitty’s a naughty girl” bucky said confidently til he realized how it sounded.

“ i was a rebel what can i say” she turned hiding her face and internally screaming, glad she was now home maybe she needed to sit in the freezer. “ well looks like papa making use of having men around” she looked to see her brothers and steve working on repairing the fences.

“ I'll help out so that punk doesn’t give out” bucky opened their doors before kissing her well he was aiming for her cheek when she turned landing right on her mouth . “ you’d swear it was the first time you kissed “ her grandmother walked off into the house.

“ HEY JERK STOP KISSING YOUR DAME AND HELP OUT” Steve yelled as they both stood looking at each other.

“ enjoy the fence .. yeah” she stumbled on the step.

“ should have called you Bambi, '' Jack laughed.

“ oh shut up or i’ll tell your hero how you peed on your captain america sheets and cried the whole night.

“ I was a kid,” he laughed nervously.

“ He was 14” Jessie laughed, handing Steve a fence post.

“ Want me to tell Steve how you wanted to marry him” her brother called.

“ Oh really kitty,” Steve smirked.

“ don’t get excited Rogers wasn’t for the reason you're thinking” she snorted heading into the house.

“ Chill Barnes, she wanted to marry him then divorce him thinking she would get the shield” Frank chuckled seeing Bucky's jaw clenched at his best friend.

“ That sounds like y/n , she once used it as a sled, ” Steve snorted.

“She made one think it’s in the garage only she made hers black and gold funny like fate or something” Jack nodded to a bucky arm although covered .

“ she made it with pop pop” jessie smiled remembering the two of them so concentrated on getting just right.

“ Sounds like destiny to me” Steve nudged his best friend.

“ yeah so tell her how you feel.. What we’re her brothers we spotted, it wasn’t legit from the start” .

“ but hurt her and we’ll bury you out in the fields” Jessie patted the man's back .

“I’ll help them” steve added, making Bucky shoot him a glare.

part 5

taglist :@vicmc624 @babble28 @scott-loki-barnes

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infiniteeight8 · 3 months ago

Note

I loved what you wrote for Alpha/Alpha. And that smut was what i asked for.

Could we have accidental bonding; like they didn't think it would remain but it did.

I’m glad I got it right!

I generally imagine omegaverse two ways, and neither of them allow bonding both outside of a heat and after a single encounter (it just doesn’t make sense to me, and my muse demands a bit of logic, lol). But! Stephen and Tony already wanted to do this again, so here’s a bit of accidental bonding from a while later.

This is a sequel to this one: https://archiveofourown.org/works/58511035

We have a problem.

Tony stares at Stephen’s text. It’s better than We need to talk, but not by much. Especially when he sends back What kind of a problem? and gets One best discussed in person as a response.

He and Stephen haven’t exactly been dating. Their encounters pretty much revolve around the bedroom. Still, there have been enough breaks between rounds and mornings after for Tony to feel like they were becoming friends in addition to sex partners. The idea that either of those things might change is… unwelcome.

The twenty minutes before Stephen can get to Tony’s penthouse are increasingly tense. Stephen’s expression when he steps off the elevator doesn’t help. Tony takes the time to pour each of them a drink before he asks. “So. What kind of problem?”

“One of the omega nurses congratulated me today,” Stephen says.

“On what?” Tony sips his drink.

“On being mated.”

Tony manages not to spit the drink out, but it’s a near thing. He swallows roughly and spends a minute coughing before he can manage any kind of reply. “When did you get mated?” he demands. They’d slept together three days ago, and he’d been sure Stephen wasn’t seeing anyone else. Who moves that fast?

Stephen knocks back half his own drink in one gulp, which is no way to treat good whiskey, but Tony is hardly going to object under the circumstances. “I didn’t,” Stephen says. “But I checked with four other people; I definitely smell bonded. And I have been sleeping with the same alpha regularly and exclusively for almost three months now."

“You mean…” Tony trails off before voicing the possibility. It doesn’t seem real.

“You and I have formed a bond,” Stephen confirms.

Tony feels a little dazed, mind racing back over the past couple of days for signs. Once he thinks about it… “That actually would explain the looks I was getting when I met with the department heads two days ago.”

“Which begs the question, what do we do now?” Stephen says carefully.

Tony blinks. “What do you mean?”

Stephen purses his lips. “If we want to break it, it’s best to do it as soon as possible.”

Something visceral in Tony rebels at the mere suggestion. He manages to swallow his first reaction. “Do you want to break it?”

Stephen searches his expression for a long time. “No,” he says finally.

“Me neither,” Tony admits in a rush.

They trade a long look, and then Stephen starts chuckling. “You know, I had a plan for exactly how my bonding was going to go,” he says. “It was very orderly.”

Tony grins at him. “I never imagined it at all, but this seems about par for the course.”

“Of course it is,” Stephen says dryly. “You’re a menace.”

“I’m your menace,” Tony shoots back cheerfully.

Stephen's expression softens. “It seems you are. And I’m yours.”

It’s not the way these things are supposed to be done, but sometimes, Tony figures, you need to run before you walk.

#IronStrange

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sycamorelibrary754 · 11 months ago

Text

Guardian Angel

Chapter 6: Compound Living

Summary: Your recovery continues in the Avengers Compound. You open up to Wanda about your past and have a heart-to-heart that may lead to something more for the both of you.

Warnings: None

Word Count: 2.5k

A/N: Sorry for the delay! The next chapter of Guardian Angel will most likely be posted after the holidays. I hope you enjoy!

Guardian Angel Masterlist

You might scream if you had to stare at another Jello cup. After being stuck in the Med Bay for two weeks, you craved something sweet from the shop. You were surprised that the food wasn't better, given that Stark could have brought up filet mignon if he wanted to. You were extremely grateful that you were finally leaving the Med Bay today, even though you weren't going far.

Wanda will be here shortly to help you move into her old room in the compound. The redhead had been coming to visit you almost every day when she wasn’t at home with the boys. It was the highlight of your day when she walked through your door and brought some much-needed color and personality to your plain old Med Bay room.

With every moment spent with Wanda, you learn something new. Her childhood and the happy memories she had of Pietro, despite their struggles growing up in war-torn Sokovia. She waxed poetically about her parents and how her father would bring home American sitcoms she fell in love with while simultaneously learning English. The Chicken Paprakish her mother lovingly prepared.

Despite all the information you had learned about her and everything she knew about you, you still felt like you were holding back. You couldn’t miss the look she gave you when Dr. Cho said she couldn’t reach your parents, but you were too scared to mention the kiss you had shared when you first woke up after the accident. You feared that Wanda would dismiss it as a mistake caused by your shared vulnerability. However, you knew you couldn't avoid it forever.

Dr. Cho and Banner walked into your room, pulling you out of your reverie. "You're good to go," remarked Dr. Cho, passing over your discharge papers and aftercare instructions. "Don't forget, your first follow-up appointment is on Friday."

“Thank you both from the bottom of my heart. I'm incredibly grateful," you said, your voice catching with emotion.

“Who's ready to bust out of this place?” Wanda exclaimed as she rolled a wheelchair into your room.

Oh, great. My driver is here," you joked, wiping your eyes before Wanda could see. "Will you ever stop treating me like a baby? I've made significant progress in my recovery thanks to the cradle.”

"Definitely not," she declared as she helped you make the move from the bed to the wheelchair.

*^~^*

"Steve, Bucky, and Sam are at your apartment grabbing your things, and Natasha should have an update from Harper at the Candy Bar any minute," Wanda said as she rolled you down the hall and into the elevator. "You just can't rest and let yourself heal, can you? You have to be a workaholic," she mumbled.

"I have never missed a day of work, not even when I had a fever of 102," you proudly declared.

Wanda sighed and remarked, "I don't think that's the badge of honor you think it is.”

"Good afternoon, Ms. Maximoff," greeted FRIDAY.

“Oh, my God!” You exclaimed. “Who is that?” If you could jump up from the wheelchair, you would have.

"Hey, take it easy, it's FRIDAY," Wanda said with a reassuring hand on your shoulder. “Tony's AI interface is seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the compound and can assist you with anything you need.”

“I notice that you have a guest, Ms. Maximoff.” FRIDAY continued.

“Yes, FRIDAY. This is Y/F/N Y/L/N. She will stay with us for a bit in my old room.”

“Welcome Ms. Y/L/N. Please let me know if you need assistance,” the AI insisted.

"Hey, Friday, it's nice to meet you, too," you said hesitantly.

"She'll be your new best friend," Wanda joked.

“Wow, Stark really can do anything,” you mused.

As the elevator stopped, FRIDAY announced your arrival in the living quarters. The doors opened, unveiling a breathtaking common area that left you momentarily speechless. It was undeniably more luxurious and inviting than your apartment.

"This is the lounge and kitchen," Wanda beckoned with a smile, guiding you through the space. "We always have some tempting late-night snacks in the fridge, and if you're craving something sweet, I can guide you to Clint's secret chocolate stash," she said playfully.

"Wow, this place is incredible," you exclaim, unable to tear your eyes away from the surroundings.

“What did you expect?” Wanda asked.

“I don’t know. You hear rumors about the Avengers Compound, but you don’t know if it’s true. Oh my god! Look at that plasma screen TV! A PS5!” Squealing like a little kid.

“Yes,” the redhead confirmed. “When they're not working, you'll find the boys and some of the younger ones gathered around that ridiculous thing.”

“I want to play!” You declared.

As Wanda pushed your wheelchair along, she reminded you, "Y/N, with only one good arm, we need to take it easy."

"Come on, I still want to play! I can tell them what moves to make," you urged while the redhead rolled her eyes.

Stark’s lab is down that corridor to the left, you can't miss it. He’s usually in there tinkering away at all hours of the night until Pepper comes and gets him. You can hear the clinking of metal and the occasional burst of flame coming from under the door." Wanda continues to roll you down a separate hallway, "Team bedrooms are this way.”

You passed a few doors before coming to a stop. “This is my room,” gently opening the door and pushing you inside.

"Wow, Wanda, your bedroom is amazing," you exclaimed, taking in the awesome décor.

If you walked in a forest at first light, if you let the awakening green hues into your soul, that would be the sense that was her bedroom. There was a calmness, a serenity, a feeling of optimism. The same feelings you felt whenever she was in your presence.

“Thank you. It’s not as fancy as some of my teammates' rooms, but I loved it,” helping you out of the wheelchair and onto the bed. “I did my best to make it my safe space. So no matter what was going on outside, no matter what happened during a mission , I could come home and find my peace of mind again.”

“That’s beautiful, Wanda,” you said.

Natasha called out, "Knock knock" from the doorway.

“Reporting back from the Candy Bar, boss,” Nat said walking toward you.

You said, "Oh God, I'm almost afraid to ask," as you placed your hand over your eyes.

“Hey, everything is under control," Natasha reassured you as she sat on the bed. "That Harper girl has the shop running like a well-oiled machine.

"Phew, thank goodness," you exclaimed with a sigh of relief. "Do we need anything? I could place an order from here," you offered, eagerly reaching for your phone.

Wanda interrupted, saying, “Y/N, you shouldn't be working. Your number one priority should be your recovery.”

Grumbling at her response, you turned away and refocused your attention on the Black Widow.

"I gave Harper a heads-up that you were on your way. Any chance she didn't fangirl when you showed up?" You inquired.

Natasha commented, 'If remaining calm while accidentally knocking over a jar of jelly beans and spilling a kid's ice cream on the floor is being composed, then yes, she was incredibly composed.'

You ran a hand down your face, imagining your best friend's clumsiness. You said, "Thank you, Natasha. I owe you one. I have been going crazy not being there. It was a relief to have someone in there to keep an eye on the place.

"No problem, Y/N," she said, patting your leg with a comforting smile. "Oh, and one more thing," she continued, bringing her other hand out from behind your back. "I brought you back a little something." As she spoke, she held up a bag from your shop, the colorful logo catching the light. "Harper told me what you liked. The first rule of compound living is to guard your snacks, or they will be eaten by one of the boys," she chuckled, handing you the bag while sharing a knowing look.

"You're amazing! I've been craving some treats from the shop," you said, eagerly taking the bag.

I know," Natasha smirked. "The second rule of compound living is that I know everything.

Wanda confirmed, “It's true.”

"Sam burst into the room with a triumphant shout of "Delivery!" He was followed by Steve and Bucky, each balancing a stack of boxes.

"Whoa, did you manage to pack up the whole place?" Nat teased.

“We wanted to be prepared for every eventuality,” Bucky explained. “We weren’t sure what Y/N would need.”

"Wow, I can't thank you enough, everyone," you exclaimed.

Steve eagerly declared, "Once we're done with our meeting with Maria, we'll gladly help you unpack," setting down the boxes with a reassuring smile.

Count me in," Nat declared. "We’ll see you in a bit, Y/N.”

“Bye,” you waved.

Wanda fluffed the pillow behind your back before sitting on the bed beside you.

“Comfortable?”

“Yes, very much so.”

“Is there anything I can get you?”

"I'm good for now," you say with a slight yawn slipping out.

"Time for you to get some well-deserved rest," she gently said as she stood up from the bed.

"Wanda, wait," you said, gently touching her arm.

Her gaze turned back to you, a look of curiosity on her face.

“I have something important to tell you,” you began nervously. “I'm recovering from this accident away from my family because my relationship with my parents has become strained. We've been estranged for a long time,” your eyes focused on the comforter.

Wanda's expression transformed from one of guarded reservation to one of gentle understanding as she listened to the admission.

“My parents founded Onyx Petroleum in California in 1978. They're not exactly Tony Stark rich, but they're pretty close. Growing up, I always felt resentful towards them - they were never the kindest people in the world, and their wealth and status worsened it. But everything changed once I started researching climate change and the impact of fossil fuels. Seeing the sheer amount of pollution that Onyx Petroleum was responsible for was disgusting. And yet, despite all of this, they still don't seem to care even an iota. It's just not right.”

Wanda's reassuring touch on your thigh brings you back to the present moment, prompting you to take a deep, calming breath.

“Throughout my childhood, my parents never failed to remind me that one day, I would inherit and run the family business. When I turned 18, they presented me with a legal document that would bind me to join the company in an executive position after I finished college. The mere thought of it was enough to make me feel physically ill,” you look down at your lap as you recount the painful memory. "I remember the day I told them that I would rather live on the street than work for them," you said softly. "I had always dreamt of doing something aligned with my values and passions, and I knew working for them would compromise that. But they didn't take it well. The very next day, they cut me off and kicked me out of their lives. It was as if I had never existed to them." Your voice cracks a little as you finish your sentence and take a deep breath to steady yourself.

"Oh Y/N," she said, gently placing a hand under your chin and tilting your head up. Your eyes glistened with tears that threatened to spill over.

“I moved in with Harper,” wiping at your eyes. “I funded my college education using the savings I had accumulated over the years and pursued a degree in entrepreneurship. Upon graduation, I took a leap of faith and established the Candy Bar with Harper. It has been the saving grace of my life," you breathed out, feeling a sense of release from the burden that had been weighing you down.

Wanda didn't respond immediately. As you looked up, you saw tears shining in her eyes. "I am grateful that you trusted me enough to share all of this with me. I am so sorry that this was your reality."

“It was a long time ago. I’ve built a life and a business that I love, and I don’t think about it for the most part. But, when I heard Helen say that she couldn’t get a hold of my parents after the accident… I don’t know,” you trailed off.

I know the accident must have stirred up some painful memories for you. I understand how much courage it takes to confront such buried trauma," she said, gently placing her hands on top of yours. "You're an incredible woman, and it's truly a shame that your parents aren't here to see the amazing person you've become.

You nodded silently, then locked eyes with the captivating redhead once more. Those mesmerizing green eyes drew you in, leaving you momentarily lost in their depths.

I'm always here if you need someone to talk to about this. Or, if you're open to it, I can speak with Bucky about connecting you with Dr. Raynor. She's a fantastic therapist.

“Thank you, Wanda. Truly,” you said.

You thought the conversation was finished, but as you looked at her, you could tell she was deep in thought. “What's on your mind?”

I'm fine, really,” she insisted. “It's just that I've been feeling so guilty about what happened between us in the Med Bay. I can't shake this feeling that I took advantage of you when we were both so vulnerable at that moment.”

Thank goodness you spoke up!" you cried out, relief washing over you. “I've been wanting to talk about this for ages, but I was afraid you might think it was just a spur-of-the-moment thing and dismiss it," you rambled on. "And then I started to worry that maybe you didn't bring it up because you regretted it, and I didn't know what to think...”

Wanda silenced you with a finger to your lips. "Shhh.

You were unaware of the fact that you had run out of breath.

"Y/N, I have to tell you something. I've never felt this way about anyone since Vision, and it's both exhilarating and terrifying. From the second I laid eyes on you in that cafe, you've been on my mind constantly. And then, when I saw you in that car..." Her voice trailed off as she struggled to hold back tears.

I haven't been able to stop thinking about you either," you reassured her. "When I woke up in the Med Bay and saw you there," reaching up to gently stroke Wanda's cheek, "I knew everything was going to be okay.

Wanda gazed deeply into your eyes as she leaned into the warmth of your palm.

“It wasn’t a mistake, Wanda.”

“No, it wasn’t.”

As she leaned forward, you could feel your heart racing with anticipation. Suddenly, her lips met yours again for the second time. It was a soft and tender kiss at first, but then you felt Wanda's hands gently cup your face, pulling you closer to her. You could sense a deepening urgency in her touch as her lips moved against yours with a newfound passion. In that moment, you forgot about everything else - your worries, fears, past, and future. All that mattered was the intimate moment you were sharing with Wanda. When you finally broke the kiss, your eyes met, and you both knew that you had found something special in each other.

*^~^*

After their meeting, Steve, Bucky, and Sam kept their promise and returned to help you unpack. When Steve knocked on your door, there was no answer. Upon slowly opening the door, he discovered you were asleep on the bed. Your good arm was wrapped around Wanda, who was peacefully dozing while snuggling up against your chest.

Sam hesitated momentarily, asking, 'Do you think we should wake them?'

"No, let them sleep. We can start unpacking the boxes," Steve proposed.

You awaken a few hours later, the warm afternoon sun casting a gentle glow on your face. Beside you, Wanda begins to rouse from her slumber.

"Hey there," you whispered, the weariness evident in your voice.

"Hi," Wanda said while stretching and looking up at you.

"I think we must have dozed off," you murmured.

"It's already lunchtime and you need to eat something. Let me grab you some food," she said as she glanced at her watch.

"I'm coming with you. I've had enough of being stuck inside all the time," you declared.

As the two of you sat up in bed, your eyes widened in surprise as you took in the state of the room around you. You couldn't help but notice that all your belongings had been carefully unpacked and placed in their proper places, giving the space a neat and organized feel. The room was adorned with delicate fairy lights that cast a warm, inviting glow around the space, while a beautiful bouquet of flowers sat proudly on the coffee table, adding a touch of elegance and charm to the overall decor. It was evident that someone had taken great care and effort in decorating the room, and you couldn't help but feel grateful and touched by the thoughtful gesture.

“Um, can FRIDAY unpack boxes?” you asked

Wanda smirked and said, "I don't think she can." Then she added, "In case it isn't obvious, I think the team likes you too, Y/N."

You found yourself completely astounded, uttering, "Wow."

#guardian angel #wanda maximoff #wanda maximoff x reader #wanda maxmoff x y/n #wanda x reader #natasha romanoff #steve rogers #bucky barnes #sam wilson #avengers compound #avengers x reader #mcu #comfort

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dnf171 · 1 year ago

Text

day 3 of 12 days of the maxiel advent calendar lol. this one is sad in a bittersweet way. content warning for a discussion focused around the loss of a newborn child. Please don't read if that is something too upsetting to you <3 set in the same universe as this.

Underneath the apple tree in their garden, there’s a patch of daffodils.

They bloom every springtime, the vibrant shades of sunshine yellow enough to light up whatever room they are put into. The first bunch, Max always likes to arrange in the vase Grace and Joe gave them as a wedding gift, the second, third and fourth into each of the babies rooms. The air of the ranch becomes sweet with their scent, and at lunchtimes when Livia and Oli are called inside from playing, sticky pollen covers their fingertips.

“Papa,” Livia says to him on one of these September days, and Max knows to brace himself for a question by the curiosity laced in her voice. Like always, she does not disappoint.

“What happened to our big brother?”

The breath catches in Max’s throat.

He and Daniel had always agreed they would never keep their first son’s existence a secret from their children, no matter how hard it might be to help them understand. The idea of Theo becoming something that could only be spoken about in hushed whispers at convenient times was too painful when every day they felt his loss. The absence of a fourth pitch of giggles to hear playing from the next room every day, a second curly head for them to tuck safely into bed each night.

But this is the first time Livia has ever mused the ‘why’, of that out loud.

She is drawing a picture titled my family, her ‘homework’ for nursery. Max can see their flattering stick figure portraits, her and Oli almost as big as he and Daniel are, while Toni resembles an earthworm on the ground beside the four of them. In the top right-hand corner, just underneath the sun, she has drawn her eldest brother, complete with a set of pink angel wings.

“Me and Daddy told you, remember?” Max reminds her, but gently. His patience for his children is endless in a way it never was for racing. “Theo is in heaven.”

Max isn’t sure he believes in heaven, knows for a fact Daniel doesn’t, but he also knows how important it is for children to have good things to have faith in and to hope for, like the tooth fairy or Santa Clause. A source of comfort, the way his mum lighting candles used to be for him.

Livia nods seriously, busy scribbling what Max guesses is supposed to be Daniel’s hair if the twisting lines are anything to go by. Then, seemingly no longer satisfied with this answer she asks, “Why is he not with us?”

Daniel is out with Oli and Toni at the aquarium. The only reason Max and Livia aren’t with them is because in thirty minutes, they have to leave for the under 5’s football training Livia loves so much.

She get’s that from her Papa, Daniel likes to remind him, as though mashing keys on FIFA is comparable to the overexcited way their daughter squeals when she scores a goal.

Alone, Max feels totally unprepared for this. Daniel is so much better at wrapping the world up into words their children can understand and make peace with. For a moment, he almost asks her for a cuddle, the selfish reassurance of her warmth and the rise and fall of her chest as he holds her, but he doesn’t want to clue her into how hard this is for him.

He is her Papa, one of the two people who are meant to stand between her and all the bad in the world. Instead, he reaches to tuck a strand of blonde hair behind her ear as she continues to draw and thinks back to how Theo’s little tuft had been all brown.

“When he was born, he was very poorly,” Max explains, and though it has been a very long time, it is as easy as anything to remember him in his hospital bed, tubes, wires and needles all protruding from his skin, tinged a sickly grey. “He wasn’t strong, like you, Oli and Toni.”

“Because he didn’t eat his carrots?” Livia asks, looking up at Max with owlish eyes, and Max has to laugh, charmed by her childish logic, her belief in everything he and Daniel tell her. He knows this phase won’t last forever, that they’ll soon be replaced with teachers and google, but for now he lets himself enjoy it.

“No,” he promises, shaking his head. “No, because something went wrong, when he was inside the tummy. Remember like me and Daddy told you that you used to be, also?”

She nods, enthusiastic suddenly to show off her knowledge.

“You had to find a lady to keep us in their belly so we could be borned,” she recites, and Max smiles. It feels like yesterday she was as small as Theo, and now she is big and smart, and her own little person, the way all of his babies got to be except for one.

“Exactly,” he encourages. “Well, when Theo was in the belly, something bad happened, so that when he was born he was sick. It made him very tired, and so he had to go to sleep forever, in heaven.”

Livia chews her lip like that still might not be enough to appease her. Max is just thinking about how to reword it, when-

“Will I ever get to see him?” She asks, like this has been the real reason for her line of questioning all along.

Thinking about the patch of daffodils where he and Daniel scattered the ashes of their first born’s, Max considers telling her that she sees him every spring, when Daniel goes out to collect a bunch to place in vases all around their home. That in a way, Theo has watched over her every year from his spot on their dresser, bringing added sunshine into their bedroom.

She is too little now though to truly understand. In time she will, but for now he wants to hold onto all the ways she is still his baby for just a little while longer. He is in no hurry for her to grow up.

“I don’t think so,” he says honestly, with an apologetic smile. “But I think he see’s you, watches you and your brother and sister play from the sky.”

Livia pauses, like maybe she has more questions and again Max braces himself.

“Okay,” is all she says though, and then she is picking up her crayons again. Max can’t help but lean over to kiss the top of her head, then tickle her side until she giggles, and swats him away telling him seriously, “Papa, you will make my drawing wonky.”

“Sorry, liefje,” he says, matching her tone, and then reaches for his phone.

Livy just asked me about Theo, he texts to Daniel. The last thing in their message thread is a photo of Oli, nose and palms pressed against the shark tank, and beneath it four words, our brave little fucker.

Unsurprisingly it’s only a few seconds before Daniel is typing a response.

its normal for her to have questions, and Max resists the urge to roll his eyes fondly, because of course, Max knows this.

Then, big kiss coming your way in approx 78 minutes, Mr Verstappen-Ricciardo.

Then, I love you.

I love you too, Max texts back, pocketing his phone. There isn’t much to be said over text, or even in person maybe, other than an repeat of what Livia asked, what Max explained to her. Everything else has already been said and these days can the pain can be shared with a simple kiss, and an evening holding each other as they watch their children play.

Turning his attention back to Livia now, her little hands clenched tightly in fists around a black crayon, he notices the strange circle shapes she is drawing over angel Theo’s eyes.

“What are these?” He asks bemused, pointing to them.

“Glasses Papa,” she says, like she thinks this should be very obvious. “Theo needs them to see us, if he is so high up.”

#sad but like also happy in a weird way?#cw child death #cw child loss #max/daniel #fic

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reigningqueenofwords · 6 months ago

Text

I Actually Can't Stand Him

Pairing: Bucky x reader Word count: 1,048

Read on AO3

Final Part of Dark Chocolate

It had been weeks since Bucky’s arrest, and you’d heard nothing more. Clearly Bucky didn’t have anything to do with it, so you pushed it from your mind. You moved around your bakery, looking forward to closing shop for the night, going home, curling up with Chewie, and watching some Food Network.

Hearing the bell on the door, you wiped your hands and went to help whoever it was. “Can I help you?” You smiled.

“Hi, my name is Tony Stark.” He introduced himself. “I’m the one who did the security at your house.”

“Oh. Thank you, by the way.” You smiled. “Was there something you needed?” Why would he be there?

“Barnes paid me to put security in here, too. I was hoping I could look around? So I know what I should make and order.” He explained.

“He didn’t say anything.” You shook your head. “But sure. Can I get you a cupcake while you’re here? On the house for Bucky’s guys.”

He chuckled. “I’m technically not one of his men. I actually can’t stand him, but he’s paying me really well. And since he explained what happened to you, I caved.” He told you. “But, sure. Anything chocolate.”

He was the first person you’d met associated with him that didn’t like him. But, him being who he was, it didn’t surprise you much. “Here.” You took out a dark chocolate cupcake with a raspberry frosting. “Wait, are you allergic to raspberries?” You asked.

“The only thing I’m allergic to is being serious.” He joked, making you laugh. “Thanks.” He took the cupcake. “You seem really sweet. Bubbly. Tell me, how does someone like you wind up with someone like Barnes?” He asked before taking a bite. “Oh, that’s good.”

“He’s a sweetheart under all that toughness.” You chuckled. “He’s not Bucky the mobster to me. He’s just Bucky.”

He simply nodded, looking around the lobby. “I’m thinking two cameras in here. One above you at the register facing the door, then a second over in the corner that will cover the register area and a different angle of the main lobby.” He mused. “I think I’ll also update your register. Something more secure. How old is that?” He asked, raising his eyebrow as he walked around the counter to look.

“I’ve had it since I opened the bakery like 8 years ago, but I don’t know if it was the latest model when I bought it.” You said honestly. You’d just wanted something that worked. “I didn’t even know they were all that different.”

“I’ll have a new one in here within the week. What day of the week are you closed?” He would try to get everything knocked out when you didn’t have customers. This way it didn’t disrupt your business.

“Usually Sunday, but it can vary. I’ll close by lunch if it’s been a really slow day.” It just made more sense, and gave you a chance to run errands for the business.

He nodded. “I should be able to have everything by this Sunday. I’ll let Barnes know.”

“Okay, awesome. Do you have a favorite cake or baked good?” You asked. Sure, he was being paid, but you liked baking, and baked for the guys all the time. Why not bake something for Tony, too?

“Nothing comes to mind.” He admitted. “Can I see the back?”

Nodding, you motioned for him to follow. “This is it. Nothing big.” You shrugged. While it meant a lot to you, you realized it wasn’t anything fancy.

Bucky knew that Tony was at your shop to check it over for security, so he made his way there. It wasn’t that he didn’t ‘trust’ him, but he would feel a lot better if he was there, too. “Babe!” He called out as he stepped in. He smiled when he spotted you moments later.

“Hi!” You beamed. “You didn’t tell me you were getting security for the shop.” You chuckled as you came over to kiss him softly.

“Well, I knew you wouldn’t let me move you to a better one.” He teased. “You love this little shop, and I love you. That, and I met you here.” He was a softer guy than most knew. “Hoping one day we can bring our kids here.” He winked as Tony came out. “Stark.”

You blinked at the mention of kids. He wanted that? With you? You didn’t even have a chance to ask him about it as him and Tony started talking about your security system. “While you talk business, I’m gonna go get some work done.” You kissed under his jaw. “Nice meeting you, Tony.” You gave the man a small wave as you made your way to the back to go back to what you were doing before.

It was as if you were on auto-pilot while your mind was stuck on Bucky’s words. While you never thought one way or the other about if he’d ever want kids, it still really took you by surprise. While he was a sweetheart, he didn’t see to be a person who’d want kids. He liked fancy things. Kids and fancy didn’t mix. Then again, you weren’t fancy and he loved you. It seemed that even though you felt you knew them well, there was still way more to him.

You jumped when you felt a hand on your lower back. “Sorry, doll.” He chuckled.

“I was really into making this dough, apparently.” You chuckled.

“It’s okay. It’s cute.” He grinned. “But, I’m meeting Stark here first thing Sunday morning. Then Steve will oversee him installing everything while I bring you to brunch.” He loved treating you.

“I plan to make him a little cake. I know you’re paying him, but I bake things for Sam and Steve, too. And you pay them.” You told him.

He had a look in his eye that you couldn’t place. “I would tell you that you don’t have to, but you won’t listen.” He loved that about you. “I will be here at closing. Stay over tonight? I’m sure Sam would be more than happy to watch Chewie unless you want me to swing by and get him first.”

You brightened at that. “Me and Chewie would love to sleep over.” You agreed.

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calliesmemes · 4 months ago

Text

SUFFS: THE MUSICAL

ASSORTED SENTENCE STARTERS pulled from the Tony award winning production SUFFS, a new Broadway musical about the decades-long Suffrage movement and the fight to secure women’s’ rights to vote amidst the turbulence of the First World War.

CHANGE gendered words and in-universe phrases as needed.

SPECIFY muse for multimuses.

CONTENT WARNINGS include misogyny and swearing.

ACT ONE

❛ Welcome, gentlemen! ❜

❛ God bless the land of freedom we hold dear. ❜

❛ We'll tidy up our politics until they are pristine. ❜

❛ Don't we deserve a little prize? ❜

❛ Don't worry, it's all right. ❜

❛ Just hold your fury in. ❜

❛ That’s the only way we can win. ❜

❛ Don't get so defensive; don't be so aggressive. ❜

❛ I don't wanna be a meek little one in games they play. ❜

❛ I wanna march in the streets. ❜

❛ Should I try to take the lead alone? ❜

❛ My ideas just dwindle and die. ❜

❛ Will I truly be able to change the world? ❜

❛ I’ll be there on the day when we finally finish the fight. ❜

❛ What's the emergency? ❜

❛ How will we do it when it's never been done? ❜

❛ How will we find the way where there isn't one? ❜

❛ That was a great speech. ❜

❛ When we take on a tyrant, we burn him down. ❜

❛ That’s not leadership; it’s cowardice. ❜

❛ I'm so sick of rhetoric with no action to back it. ❜

❛ When we show up, we show up for all of us. ❜

❛ I’ve never felt so alive before. ❜

❛ I feel a part of something bigger than me. ❜

❛ I feel my word about to change. ❜

❛ I'm a great American bitch. ❜

❛ I'd rather be right than rich. ❜

❛ I seduce whoever I please. ❜

❛ Come on, we'll do it together, get up.. ❜

❛ I must honor the promises of my campaign. ❜

❛ Governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed. ❜

❛ We'll be glad to educate you. ❜

❛ Will I feel like a failure no matter what choice I make? ❜

❛ If I don't give my all to my calling, I'll never be able to forgive myself. ❜

❛ If we were married, I promise to cherish you just as a gentleman should. ❜

❛ You've got to admire the ease with which men can squeeze us into such a rigid role. Daughters are taught to aspire to a system expressly designed to keep them under control. ❜

❛ Don't let her get to your head, focus on your speech instead. ❜

❛ What was I thinking enabling her? ❜

❛ What if she ruins what I’ve been mounting for years? ❜

❛ You just publicly implied I'm a disloyal disgrace. ❜

❛ If you have something to say, say it to my face. ❜

❛ Why are you fighting me? I am not the enemy. ❜

❛ I want us to meet someone. ❜

❛ You really put the rage in suffrage. ❜

❛ I’ve got a surprise; close your eyes. ❜

❛ It feels like we’re right back at the start. ❜

❛ Too bad for them, they're up against a queen with a spine of steel. ❜

❛ You are the bravest person I've ever met. ❜

❛ Don't you wanna face the villain down and demolish him? ❜

❛ They ought to be frightened of you and me. ❜

❛ Dammit! Why are you the only person I can never turn down? ❜

❛ We'll hold a rally first thing. ❜

❛ Don't you think we've waited long enough? ❜

❛ I need to plan a memorial fit for a queen. ❜

❛ I used to wish I could be in her shoes. ❜

ACT TWO

❛ We rose up in defiance, yes we chose to risk it all. ❜

❛ The old way always dies. ❜

❛ I may not be a great man, but I am a man who upholds his vows. ❜

❛ You will sit down, shut up, and eat your food. ❜

❛ Hold it together; see it through. ❜

❛ Don't let despair get the best of you. ❜

❛ What a coward you’ve become. ❜

❛ Fight your own war. ❜

❛ You promised me we would burn him down. ❜

❛ What have they done to you?! ❜

❛ Decades of defiance take their toll. ❜

❛ God, I wish I had her courage. ❜

❛ All rumors in the press are entirely false. ❜

❛ You're deep in pain, you feel insane, and no one can talk you off the ledge. But that's exactly how those crooked kings want you to feel. ❜

❛ I know I’m intense — It's just how I cope in a world that's gone crazy. ❜

❛ All I've ever wanted is to change things for the better. ❜

❛ Is it so insane to want my own choice? ❜

❛ it's time we burn him down. ❜

❛ Thank you for finally sharing a cup of tea with me. ❜

❛ Who cares who gets the credit or the blame? What matters is the work gets done. ❜

❛ I know you think I'm this arrogant kid, but I've just always known it's my calling to see this movement through. ❜

❛ I feel like a parent made to reprimand my child. ❜

❛ I'm so tired of fighting. ❜

❛ God, how I wish we could really be wed. ❜

❛ I'm proud of you. ❜

❛ Even when you drove me to my wits end, the best thing I've ever been is your friend. ❜

❛ I won’t live to see the future that I fight for. ❜

❛ Progress is possible, not guaranteed. ❜

❛ You’ll rarely agree with whoever’s in charge. ❜

❛ The future demands that we fight for it now. ❜

#askbox meme #askbox prompt #rp ask meme #roleplay sentence meme #sentence starters #ask box #roleplay prompts #roleplay sentence starters #rpc help #* sentence meme

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snkts · 4 months ago

Text

The Good Fight - Ouija & Siren

“Ah, Logan. There you are.” Charles says from Cerebreaux. His voice bounces off the walls of the room. It’s almost a perfect sphere, and it turns into an echo chamber. “Welcome home.”

“Hey, Chuck.” Logan puts his hand on the back of Charles’ chair. “Got here as soon as I could.” Charles looks up at him with a smile.

“I appreciate your haste, old friend. I hate to interrupt your vacation, but this is a rather pressing matter.”

“It’s fine.” Logan shakes his head. He’d been minding his own when the call came in, standing at one of his favourite seedy bars (Tony Slim’s, an unknown and unwashed gem) and playing pool. A good way to unwind and destress after missions and mansion life. (Yeah, yeah, he knows, what a hard existence he’s leading now.) But his comm had gone off, and that was more important. He’d always be there when his family needed him, and they needed him now. “Tell me about the kid.”

“Right.” Charles looks back at the display. Rendered in blue light is an array of photographs of a young girl - a yearbook photo, family portraits. Beside them all is a neat rectangle of statistics and flashcard-style information. “Her name is Samantha Everett, from Chicago, Illinois. She just recently turned seven years old-”

“So I’m guessing she didn’t go out for a pack of smokes.” Logan shoved his other hand in his pocket.

“Doubtful.” Charles typed in a few commands, enlarging some of the photos.

“Seems a little young to be getting her powers.” Logan remarked, frowning. “What kinda baggage are we looking at?”

“Surprisingly, none.” Charles said. “We’ve already conducted interviews with her parents, teachers, and even her babysitter. As far as anyone knows, she’s a happy, healthy little girl.”

“I’m gonna want to talk to ‘em myself.” Logan said, chewing the inside of his cheek. Charles nodded.

“And you will.” Charles shifted, reached into his pocket, and withdrew a paper-wrapped plastic straw before holding it out. “They’re eager to meet with you.” Logan blinked at the straw, then accepted it. He raised it in a silent ‘cheers’, removed the wrapper, shoved it into his pocket, and stuck the straw between his teeth. It wasn’t nearly as good as a cigar, but if he wasn’t allowed to smoke in here, it was better than nothing. He crossed his arms and rocked back on his heels, chewing on the straw.

“So, happy, healthy little girl just up and vanishes.” He mused. “With no sign of a struggle.”

“None.” Charles confirmed. “And before you ask, there’s been no sign of her on Cerebreaux, either.” He reached up and removed the helmet, resting it in his lap. “Wherever she is, she’s not using her abilities.”

“You said she’s a telepath?”

“Something tangential.” Charles put the helmet away and wheeled backwards out from the desk. “When my gift manifested, I was the only one hearing voices. If other people had reported the same, I may have felt less…”

“Alone?” Logan supplied. Charles hummed and nodded.

“Yes.” For a moment, neither of them spoke. Then Logan plucked the straw - now thoroughly mangled - from his mouth.

“Well, Charles?” He turned towards the door. “Might need half an hour for this one.” Charles chuckles and follows him across the catwalk.

“Don’t tell me, you’re slowing down in your old age?” He asks, grinning and arching a brow. Logan scoffed.

“Watch it, Junior.” But he’s laughing, too.

***

The Blackbird touches down in what looks to be some sort of baseball field. Nothing too fancy. The sort of thing that made Little League teams feel important, but that's about it. Logan stepped off the gangplank, one hand in his pocket and the other hanging loosely at his side. He glanced around as his boots met the grass. It's empty aside from a small group of people - five of them - huddled a ways away from the jet. He could smell their anxiety even from where he stood. It was brought over to him by the breeze that ruffled the grass and plucked at his hair. The parents he would’ve recognized even without the family photos. The mom had the same straight ash-blond hair as her daughter. She got her daddy’s nose, though. The other hint that they’re the parents are the eyes. Not just the colour, though it’s the same green-hazel on the dad as stared back from the school photo. The dark bags and red rims tell it all. The scent, too. The salty, sickly-sweet smell of grief and tears. That wasn't something you could fake easily. The other three were a separate family unit. A girl - maybe seventeen, eighteen at the oldest - and her parents. Her hair was red and tightly braided, a similar shade to her father’s short crew cut. She kept clutching and releasing the too-long sleeves of her sweater. Nervous. Not afraid, nervous. And judging by how frayed her sleeves were, she’d been doing this a lot - it wasn’t a ‘new’ nervous, not brought about by his and Charles’ arrival. Her mom was a different story. Her hands were on the girl’s shoulders, and her freshly-manicured nails dug into the mint-green fabric as the two mutants approached. Logan furrows his brow but says nothing. Charles does the talking for him.

“Mr. and Mrs. Everett,” he begins. “I’m-”

“Professor Xavier!” Mr. Everett let go of his wife and stepped forward, shaking Charles's hand in both of his. “Thank you so much for coming. We still haven't heard anything. We’ve been worried sick, and we didn't know who else to call-”

“There's always the MRA.” The redhead’s wife sniffs. Logan scoffs and rolls his eyes.

“Not if you wanna see her again.” He says. Mrs. Everett’s heart rate spiked.

“What?” She gasps, hand flying to her mouth. The redhead’s wife’s had a fast pulse the whole time. She shifted closer to her husband, pulling their daughter along with her. Her husband, the red head’s, scent shifted from anxious to aggressive to anxious again when Logan grinned at him. Big man didn't feel so big after all. Still big enough to open his mouth, though.

“And you are-?” The redhead clutches at his wife and daughter.

“Logan.” Logan replies. He turns his body to face the redhead square. “Who’re you?” The redhead clenched his jaw in an attempt to rally and puffed out his chest.

“I’m Lyra’s father.” The effort to put more bass in his voice was noticeable. Logan blinked at him, one brow raised to indicate how little that meant. He glanced at the girl, then at Charles.

“Samantha’s babysitter.” Charles supplied.

“Ah.” Logan nodded. He’d figured, but it was good to get the confirmation.

“Mr. and Mrs. Everett.” Charles wheeled forward to once again take charge of the conversation. “Logan is the one I told you about over the phone. You would be hard pressed to find a better tracker.”

“There isn’t one.” Logan said, crossing his arms. “Doesn't matter where she is, I’ll find her.” Mr. and Mrs. Everett smiled.

“Thank you.” Mrs. Everett says, reaching to hug her husband’s arm.

“If there’s ever anything-” Mr. Everett begins, but Logan cuts him off with a raised hand.

“Save it for when the kid’s back watchin’ Saturday morning cartoons.” And then he rocks his weight back, shoving his hands into his jacket pockets. “Now, how’s about we get outta this field and talk somewhere more private?”

“Oh. Yes, of course.” Mr. Everett nods. “We actually live just across the street from the stadium. That’s why we suggested meeting here.” The couple turns to go, Lyra and her family at their heels. Charles and Logan follow behind, Logan matching his pace with Charles's, never straying from his side. It takes a concentrated effort to let Charles into his mind, but he can manage enough to get his point across.

Babysitter’s parents seem shady, he thought. I don’t trust them.

They do not trust you either, old friend. Charles’s voice in his head. They’re quite suspicious of the both of us.

Figures. Logan struggled not to scoff out loud. Think we’re gonna have to worry about a phone call?

Perhaps we will. The thought has crossed their minds once or twice. Charles mused. We’ll have to be alert.

Always am. Logan returned, then relaxed as his mind closed and he put more of his focus into the world around them. The wind through the faint trees scattered at the park’s edge, and the residential yards across the street. Birds chirping - robins, sparrows, chickadees. The hum of insects, the rustle of their footsteps, the sound of a dog panting a few streets away. A nice, quiet neighbourhood. So painfully upper-middle-class that the lack of white picket fences felt like an oversight. Given the time of day, most people were out, as demonstrated by the many empty driveways. Didn’t stop a few nosy neighbours from peeking through their blinds, but that wasn't surprising. As long as they kept out of his way, Logan would pay them no mind.

They approached a quaint little two-story bungalow, white siding and blue shutters, flower boxes under the window. The path up to the front door was cobblestone, greys and sandy browns framed on either side by perfectly manicured grass. There was a single step up to a small concrete porch that was barely larger than the front door. Logan lagged behind just long enough to ensure Charles got up alright before joining everyone inside.

“Nice place.” He comments. Mr. Everett shoots him a long-suffering look.

“The next door neighbour is HOA president.” He said. Logan let out a noise that was half sympathy, half amusement.

“You poor bastard.” He says, shaking his head in sympathy. Mr. Everett nods, and his shoulders relax a bit. Good. If they were calm, they’d give better intel. Might be easier for Charles to sort through, too. They stepped through the foyer to the family room, wide and spacious, a cream carpet, white walls that were covered in photos and paintings. There’s a fireplace, and the mantle is covered in more pictures, some figurines - animals, mostly, one or two that looked like Disney princesses. At least one that was some unrecognisable lump of clay, probably made by a grade schooler. Three guesses who, and the first two don’t count.

“What about you?” Logan asks. Lyra’s parents look up from where they’ve settled themselves on a loveseat. “You live around here?”

“The street behind this one.” Lyra speaks up suddenly. Logan shifts his attention to her. She’s small, and skinny. A smattering of freckles across her nose. Her hair pulled into two braids, done tightly and bound in elastics. And still pulling on her sweater sleeves. It’s a miracle the damn things hadn’t fallen off. “And a few houses down. I used to come in through the back gate when I…” She trailed off and looked around, realising people were staring at her. She ducked her head to hide from the attention. Logan glanced at Charles, then stepped around the glass-topped coffee table to crouch in front of Lyra.

“It’s okay, darlin’.” He says gently. “Anything you can tell us helps. That gate you mentioned - anyone else use it?”

“Just us.” Mrs. Everett comes out of the kitchen with a tray of glasses. Lemonade, by the smell of it. Store bought - too artificial to be home-made - but a nicer brand - real lemons and sugar. “There's a lock on the back. We have the key, Ted and Aimie and Lyra have a key,” she nodded to indicate Lyra and her parents, “and my mother has a key. And Jack’s father.” After setting the tray down, she put her hand on her husband’s arm.

“But neither of our parents live in town.” Mr. Everett - Jack - says, bending over to lift some of the glasses from the tray. He passes one to Charles, who accepts it with a smile and a quiet ‘thank you’, then one to Lyra’s father, Ted. Then he passes a glass to his wife, then Aimie, then holds one out to Logan. Logan eyes it, then looks back at Jack with a raised eyebrow.

“Wouldn't happen to have a beer, would’ya?” He asked. Jack sighs and pushes his free hand through his hair.

“I could go for a beer.” Jack mumbles. He turns and heads past a marble-top counter into the kitchen. There's the sound of a fridge opening, a clinking rustling noise, and Jack returns with two bottles held between his fingers.

“Cheers.” Logan says as he accepts his drink. Jack nods.

“We have a bottle opener around here somewhere…” He turns, and Logan huffs.

“So do I.” His claws extend with a snikt from them and a gasp from the humans. He wedges the blade under the bottle cap and twists his wrist. The cap flies off. He catches it, retracts his claws, and stuffs it in his pocket as he tips the beer back.

“So.” Charles says pleasantly, sipping his own drink. “What can you tell us about your daughter?”

“Oh, uh…” Mrs. Everett blinks, closing her mouth. Then she collects herself. “Well, she’s very shy. She has some friends, she does well in school… She’s a normal little girl.” Logan didn't miss the look Ted and Aimie exchanged. He glared at them.

“Got something to say?” The edge in his voice made them flinch.

“Just that-” Aimie starts, then stops. Ted puts his hand on her shoulder.

“Normal little girls don't do the things she does.” He’s trying to be defiant.

Cute.

Logan growls. In the same moment, Mrs. Everett stands.

“There is nothing wrong with her!” She snaps.

“Marcy-!” Jack cautions, putting his hand on her arm.

“Everyone, please!” Charles spoke up. Logan settled somewhat and took another swig of beer. The humans quieted too. Charles paused to have a sip of lemonade. “I understand that emotions are running high right now. A child has been taken. It is only natural that you might feel stressed or defensive. But the best way we can help you right now is through rational discussion. The more information Logan and I get, the sooner we can ensure Samantha is brought home safely. That is what we all want, correct?” A silence. Jack and Marcy nod, Lyra nods, and after a beat, so do Ted and Aimie. Charles nods as well. “Very good.” He set his glass down on the coffee table, minding the coaster. “Now, let us resume our discussion. We’ve brought up Samantha’s gift multiple times, now. Could you explain to us what that is?” Marcy nodded, then slowly pried herself off of her husband and sat in an armchair. Jack rested his hands on the back of the chair.

“We thought it was Lyra, at first.” Marcy begins.

“But it wasn’t.” Aimie says, grabbing at her daughter’s hand. Lyra looks up at her, then back at the floor. Logan grunted.

“Wait your turn.” That quieted Aimie down, even if her face looked like she wanted to say some non-PTA-approved words. Tough luck. Marcy, by contrast, smiled. Her shoulders loosened and her heart rate slowed just a touch. She was grateful. Another good thing.

“She told us she heard voices. And we were alarmed, but-”

“Not-” Lyra started, then clamped her mouth shut as her scent spiked with fear. But Logan just looked at her and tilted his head curiously. She swallowed and tried again. “Not voices. Just one voice.”

“Whose?” Logan asked, facing her fully. She started pulling at her sleeves again, letting go of her mother’s hand in favour of fiddling.

“My Nana’s.” She says, then blinks. “Um, my grandmother on my mom’s side. Her name was Nancy, and she, um…”

“My mother passed five years ago.” Aimie said, putting her arms around her daughter’s shoulders.

“Heart failure.” Ted supplies. Charles nods and folds his hands in his lap with a sympathetic hum.

“I’m sorry. And you said you heard her voice, Lyra? Could you elaborate on that?” He asks, and she nods.

“I was walking Sammy home from school like I do every day. We have one of those weird schools where it’s mostly a high school, but then there’s a bit at the back for the elementary schoolers.”

“It’s a private school.” Jack cuts in. “It’s smaller, but they teach the kids how to sign, and Sammy’s mute, so we thought it’d be good for her to be around people who could actually communicate.”

“Mute, huh?” Logan chewed at his lip. “So, chances are she didn’t call out when she got taken. Keep going, kid.” Lyra nods, even though she keeps her eyes on the floor.

“We got to the back gate, and I unlocked it for her. And she always wanted a high five before we said ‘bye’. It’s our thing.” She twisted the fabric some more. Her breathing hitched. “So I did, and…” She sniffles. Logan tilts his head and crouches down, setting his beer on the table.

“And what, darlin’?” He asked. (Out of the corner of his eye, he sees Charles lean forward and slide a coaster under the beer bottle.)

“I heard my Nana.” Her voice was even quieter now. “Loud and clear. She told me to tell my grandpa not to go in his car, because his breaks were broken. And I got freaked out, so once Sammy was in her yard, I closed the gate and ran home.”

“She told us about what she heard.” Ted says quietly. “At the time, we thought maybe it was some kind of divine intervention.” Logan cast a glance back at Charles, who nodded subtly. That fucking figured. When mutants do weird things, it’s a curse, a disease, something to be fixed and cured and punished. But when it was their own kid? It was an act of God. A miracle. (Until it got too much to handle - then it was back to being a curse again.)

“I didn’t know what to think.” Aimie says. “I just mentioned it to my dad because I was worried. He checked the breaks to reassure her, but-”

“But they were actually broken.” Logan finished. Aimie nodded.

“Just like she said.”

“We didn’t know about any of that at the time.” Jack said, squeezing the back of Marcy’s chair tightly. “We thought it was strange that Lyra didn’t come say hello like she normally does when she drops Sammy off, but thought maybe she was just busy. Nothing to comment on, you know? So I picked Sammy up to hug her hello, and one of my old war buddies was suddenly talking about being cold.”

“Us Army,” Charles offers.

“Canadian Special Forces.” Logan said.

“Marines.” Jack replies, easing his grip. “Swanson was his name, Fred Swanson. KIA. He just kept saying, ‘It’s cold here, kid. It’s real cold’.” Marcy reached up to put her hand on her husband’s. She gave his fingers a squeeze. The tense look on his face and shift in his scent hinted that he needed the comfort.

“Do you believe he was speaking to you?” Charles asked.

“No.” Jack didn't hesitate. “Fred never called me ‘kid’. We were the same age. He called me Jackie.”

“I heard my grandmother.” Marcy said. “She was just singing. The same songs she used to sing when she was gardening.”

“I see.” Charles frowns. “And what did you do?”

“Got us out of the house.” Jack shrugs. “I thought we were hearing things. I thought- I thought maybe there was something wrong with our carbon monoxide detector. So I got us out and called the emergency number to get someone to come check it, and everything came back clean.”

“But it kept happening?” Logan prompted. Marcy, Jack, Aimie, and Ted nodded.

“Not the same voices.” Marcy said. “Different ones, every time.”

“And it was every time.” Jack picks his beer bottle off the counter he’d set it on and takes a pull. “Every time we touched her, or she touched us. It didn’t stop. I would’ve thought I went crazy if Marcy wasn’t hearing it too.” Logan frowned, looking over at Charles.

“That’s not a telepath.” He says.

“No, it isn't.” Charles steeples his fingers and furrows his brow. “At least, not the typical sort. I can understand how that might have been troubling to you. Did you tell anyone else?”

“We called around to different resources.” Marcy said. “That's how we found out about your school. We emailed you not long after.” Charles nodded but said nothing.

“So how else do you factor in?” Logan looks to Lyra.

“I was the last person to see Sammy before she vanished.” She said, her voice cracking. “But I didn’t do anything! I swear, I-” Charles held up a hand.

“It’s alright, Lyra.” He soothes her, cradling his glass of lemonade. “I know for a fact you did nothing wrong. This is just part of our investigation.” Lyra nods again. “Just tell us what you saw.”

“She was just playing in the backyard.” Lyra said, graduating to chewing on the ends of her sleeve. “I was worried. She hadn't been to school in a while and nobody knew why, we just heard she was sick.” Logan and Charles glanced at Jack and Marcy.

“We pulled her out of school.” Marcy said, fiddling with one of her earrings. “We didn't want people knowing she was a mutant until we had the, ah, resources, to handle her- gift.”

“So I hadn't been walking her home, and it kinda felt… It was weird. I guess I missed her.” Jack smiled at this, sad though it was, and Marcy reached out to take Lyra’s hand. Lyra accepts the gesture in spite of the look Ted and Aimie exchange. “So when I was passing by their house, I just… Looked over the fence.” She grimaced and let go of Marcy’s hand. “Oh, god. That makes me sound like a creep. But I looked in, and I saw her, and she was just playing. She had her dollhouse and her bike and a few other things. And she was just playing. So I called to her and waved hello and she waved back. I tried to get her to come high five me, like we always did, but she didn’t want to. Guess I know why.” She shrugs and pulls her knees to her chest, locking her arms around her legs. “We had a conversation for a little bit. Nothing really important. I was asking how she was feeling, she was telling me about the story she came up with for her dolls. Something about a senate that got infiltrated, and trying to find who the bad guy was. She did that one a lot. And then I got a phone call, and I looked away for a bit, and when I looked back, she-” Lyra’s voice broke and she buried her face in her knees, holding herself tighter. “She was gone.”

“Who called you?” Logan asked. Lyra kept her face buried and shrugged. Logan waited. Eventually, she spoke again.

“Brian Casey.” She mumbled. When she looks up, her face is bright red, and her pulse is elevated. “He’s, um, a boy from school. We talked for a minute or two, and I turned to wave bye to Sammy, and I didn’t see her.”

“Was there anything strange about the phone call?” Charles asked. Lyra nodded.

“Yeah. I asked Brian about it the next day, and he had no idea what I was talking about.” Her face twisted into a frustrated frown. “But I know it was him. We even talked about a chemistry assignment we’d done together.”

“But he denied it the next morning?” Charles pressed.

“According to him, it never happened. … And there was nothing in either of our call logs.” Charles and Logan stared at each other. They both nod.

“That’s all I need to hear.” Logan crossed his arms and rocked his weight back on his heels. Then he looks back to Jack and Marcy. “You got anything important to her I can take with me? A stuffed animal, a blanket…?”

“Part of Logan’s gift is enhanced senses.” Charles explains. “Bloodhounds are quite envious of his ability to follow a scent.”

“If it’s something that makes her feel safe, it might help me get her to come out if she’s hiding.” Logan adds.

“Oh.” Marcy says as the humans glance between each other. Then she stands up. “I think I know just the thing.” She steps around the chair, manoeuvres around Charles with a quiet ‘’scuse me’, and heads up the wooden staircase by the door to get to the house’s second level. Logan tilts his head, following her footsteps, the creak of the door, the pad of socks on carpet, her mumbling, the quiet ‘there you are’ when she finds what she needs. And then she retraces her steps and joins them in the sitting room again.

“Here.” She held out a shapeless, threadbare blob of fabric that had, at one point, been a plush lion. “This is Thimble. I-” She flushed. “I had a hard time saying ‘Simba’ when I was little. Sammy sleeps with him every night.”

“That works.” Logan reached out and took the toy in one hand. He glanced over to Lyra and added, “You said the last place anyone saw her was the back yard?” Lyra nodded. Logan smirked. “Half an hour.”

“What?” Ted asked. Logan was already moving past them to the sliding glass door in the back of the kitchen.

“That’s how long it's gonna take me to find the kid.”

“But she's been missing for three days.” That was Jack. Logan didn't turn around.

“I know.” He said, pushing the door open. “That's why I gave myself extra time.”

****

Finding the scent had been easy. It was all over the place. And yeah, it matched the scent that clung to the toy, Thimble, so he had double confirmation it was her. The artificial fruit scent of children's shampoo, goat’s milk, sidewalk chalk, grass and dandelions, petrichor, something not-quite but similar to ozone, the worn rubber of her shoes that was just a bit burnt from the lights that would come on when she stomped, bananas, washable markers, and granite. A little bit of sweat, which made sense if she’d been playing outside, but no fear. Highly unusual for a kidnapping victim. Her scent travelled alongside another, one he didn't recognize. That was bad enough. What made it even worse was that it carried traces of a scent he DID know. Oily-slick and painfully artificial, like pouring cologne on a chemical spill. Rot and rebirth, cold metal, blood.

Sinister.

If he was involved, a half hour search was probably too long. Fucking hell. His Harley, retrieved from the jet, roared down the street. The suburbs had long since fallen away. The buildings here were crowded together, businesses hunched under apartments and jostling for an inch of breathing room. He wrinkled his nose and growled. He hated places like this. Noisy, smelly, chaotic headaches. The perfect places to get lost in. well, not on his watch.

The trail led him to a bus terminal. It was empty now, but they had definitely been here. Logan cut the ignition and kicked the stand into place, swinging off the bike. He glanced around and sniffed the air. Yup, there was Sammy’s scent, and the other one, too. Leather and hand sanitizer, hair gel, gunpowder and gun oil (the good stuff, too, nothing cheap), lemon and honey and tea leaves, wintergreen mint and nail polish, glacial ice, adrenaline and blood and Sinister. Who the hell was this? And where had they gone?

There was a schedule on the wall. Laminated paper, sun-bleached but legible, detailing the routes each bus took. Logan grunted and ripped the sheet off the wall. Could be useful. He studied it a moment longer, then looked up and around. … There was a newspaper stand across the street. Logan was quietly amazed that those still existed. It was a hole-in-the-wall, probably part of the convenience store with the barred windows, with road sign-yellow paint on the counter and the signage. A far cry from the Everett’s suburb. Logan cast a quick glance in either direction then crossed the street, taking off his helmet and cradling it under his arm. The kid leaning against the counter can’t be more than late 20s. Long hair, stubble that was probably meant to be a beard. He had a cigarette hanging out of his mouth, and fixed Logan with a disinterested stare as he approached. His nametag introduced him as Jeremy, and that he was a ‘proud employee’ of Luckee Mart. Congratulations, Jeremy.

“Hey.” Logan said, stopping in front of the counter. Jeremy said nothing, only raised his eyebrow. That was fine; Logan would do the talking for both of them. “I’m looking for a kid. You seen this girl?” He slaps Sammy’s school photo - printed off before they even left the mansion - down on the counter. Jeremy props his face on his fist and looks down.

“You a cop?” He asks, and Logan grimaces before shaking his head.

“Hell no. Private investigator.” He taps his finger against the photo. “Her parents really want her home.” Jeremy looks down at the photo. His brow furrows, his heart rate picks up, and his scent shifts to nervousness and fear. Oh, okay. He was about to start lying. He takes a drag of his cigarette and holds it out to the side, tapping the ash off.

“Never seen her.” He said, leaning his weight to the side in an attempt to appear casual, confident. Logan sneers.

“Listen, bub.” He says. The cockiness vanishes from Jeremy’s face when Logan lifts him, one handed, by the front of his shirt and snatches the cigarette away. “You can keep talking outta your ass if you want, but I got three things you should consider first. One.” His first claw slid out, close enough that the flat pressed against the punk’s cheek. “Two.” The second claw slid out along the other side of his face. “Three.” the third, central, claw extended just enough to press into the soft underside of Jeremy’s chin. Jeremy’s eyes were wide, frantic, and brown. Same brown as his hair. Same brown as his jeans were gonna be, too.

“Wait! Wait wait wait, shit man, wait! You’re a- You’re a fuckin’ mutant?!”

“Nothin’ gets by you.” Logan grunted. “Where's the girl?”

“She took a bus!” Jeremy yelped, scrabbling at the counter and Logan’s wrist. Logan growls his frustration and tightens his grip.

“I know that, numbnuts.” He snapped. “When and what direction?”

*I don’t know!” Jeremy tilted his head back even further, trying to get as far away from the claws as he could. “I-I was just coming back from my lunch break, so I dunno, like- Noon? Noon-ish? And they went off towards McKellen street– Uh, that way!” He pointed.

“They?” Logan pressed. Jeremy started to nod, then thought better of it when he felt cold adamantium against his neck.

“Yeah, she was with someone. A woman. She was kinda freaky-looking, but still a babe, y’know? Really tall, hair slicked back, some kinda… Body armor type deal. And she was strapped, man, like- Guns and shit? I was surprised they let her on the bus. You ever seen Kill Bill? Or the Matrix? Like that- Hey!” Logan shakes him once.

“Focus, kid!” He snaps. “How long ago was this?”

“I dunno!” Jeremy shakes his head frantically. “I dunno! Two days ago? Three? Something like that!” Logan growls his frustration and drops Jeremy back down, retracting his claws. He wasn’t going to get anything else from this guy. No point wasting his time. He kept the kid’s cigarette, though, and held it between his teeth, inhaling deep. Then his frown deepens as he lets the smoke out from his lips.

“What is this? You smoke Pall Mall?” … He still took another drag as he referred back to the bus schedule. Logan shook his head. “Switch to Camels. You’ll thank me later.” He rolls the bus schedule up and stuffs it into his belt to hang onto, just in case, and makes sure to swipe the school picture as well. He crosses the street again, puts on his helmet, and swings onto his bike. The engine takes just long enough to cut on that Logan gets to hear Jeremy’s bewildered ‘What the fuck just happened?’ as he drives away.

*****

They’d left the city. They hadn’t gone far, but they were past the limits. He’d picked up the scent at one of the bus stops marked on the map. That hadn’t been difficult. There was only one bus that matched Jeremy’s estimated scheduling: the 632. From there, he’d figured out the stops in order, and had taken alleyways and side streets to check each one off faster until he hit paydirt. Then it was just tracking. Tracking, and breaking a few traffic laws. Not like he cares - if the cops ever got on his tail, they'd have to catch him, first.

“Hey, Chuck.” Logan said, flicking his comm on.

“Logan!” Charles's voice is bright and pleasant. “I was wondering when we might hear from you. Good news, I imagine?”

“Yeah.” Logan took a right turn. “I’m close. The scent's blowing pretty fresh. I’d say I’m roughly three minutes out from her location.”

“Already?” That was Jack’s voice, muffled by distance. Logan grinned.

“I told ya, thirty minutes to find her.” He says. He slows his bike and comes to a stop, bracing his feet on the gravel road. “But your police force must be shit. Nobody checked the…” He squinted at the weather-beaten sign in front of him. “Steel mill?”

“He’s at Flagship?” Jack still sounds surprised. “But…”

“But why would she be there?” Marcy’s voice, equally surprised.

“No idea.” Logan grunted. “But as long as I get her back safe and sound, who cares? I’ll call back when I’ve got her.” He shut the commlink off. If he was being honest, the ‘why’ did matter, and he was curious about it, but he was on a time crunch - both for the limit he’d set for himself, and the kid’s safety. They could chat and theorise when she was home.

He elected to leave his motorcycle behind. It would make too much noise on the approach. Best to go it on foot. He circled through the grass, stepping past what remained of a chain link fence and avoiding the main entrance. That'd be too obvious. Besides, the scent didn't lead to there. Whoever took the kid also didn't use the front door.

That was interesting.

They skipped most of the broken windows, too. Could be a couple reasons for that. Reason one: The kid couldn’t get that high. That would suggest that whoever took her wasn’t carrying her - which in turn suggested Sammy had gone willingly, or had been coerced to follow. Reason two: For whatever reason, the KIDNAPPER couldn’t get through the windows. Could be because they were too big to fit. At first listen to Jeremy’s story, that didn't sound right. He’d described a woman, and those windows were pretty damn big. But Logan didn't know this person. If they were a mutant, and he was assuming they were until otherwise proven wrong, they might have some sort of shape shifting power. Maybe the woman wasn't their real form. Maybe they had increased weight for another reason (better not be chomping his flavour).

Maybe they just couldn't jump that high.

He stopped just behind the steel mill, staring at what probably used to be a loading bay. He was around a corner, eyes narrowed in suspicion. Coast looked clear. He could hear talking, but it was too distant to be at the door. He counted one voice- No, wait. … Why did it sound like so many more people all of a sudden? He swore, he SWORE he’d only heard two heartbeats a moment ago. Only two sets of breathing. And he didn't smell sulphur, so what in the fuck-? He narrowed his eyes and sniffed the air once, twice. Three times. He smelled rust, and dirt, and decay, mould and mildew and wildlife, petrichor and rotting paint, crumbling wood, and…

And…

What the fuck?

Why did it smell like the forest? … And why did he recognize those voices?

This is a goddamn trap.

He growls low in his chest, bares his teeth at nothing in particular. This is a trap, and it makes no sense. The people he hears, smells, can't possibly be there. And if there's a trap, that means whoever was behind this - whether they were just in league with Sinister or it was the man himself - knew someone was following them. If it had been tailored to him, they knew he was coming, specifically. But he was three days and a few police calls behind, and he'd gotten on the trail as soon as he'd heard all the relevant Intel. How could they know…?

Fuck it. Screw the door, screw the loading bay, he was going in through one of those windows after all. He retraced his steps at speed - if they knew he was here, there was less point in being stealthy - braced his feet against the concrete and jumped. His hands caught the edge of the window. Glass bit into the leather of his gloves. Sliced into his hands. He swung up and over, using the windowsill as a pivot point. By the time he let go, the cuts were already healed, and he landed on the ground and woke up.

… Had he been sleeping? It felt like he had. Logan screwed his eyes shut and groaned, grinding his face into the heel of his hand. His head hurts. He hears the sound of chatter, and opens his eyes. … He's on a bench. On a bench, at the institute. His favourite bench, the one near the treeline. He frowns. Breathes in. The air is clean and fresh. Wasn't he just doing something? Or had it been another dream? Another nightmare? Another lost memory trying to bleed through to the surface? He blinked a couple times, trying to clear his vision. Something flew at his head- His arm snapped up- snatched it out of the air-

A frisbee.

Bright red plastic with a black ‘X’ emblazoned on the top, marking it as property of the Institute.

“Sorry, Logan!” A young voice called. Logan looked up, still clutching the frisbee. There, waving and giggling sheepishly, was a group of familiar faces. Pyro, Drake, Rogue, Kitty, Jubilee, and Colossus. Kitty was the one who had spoken. She stopped waving to rock onto her toes, then back down. “Can you throw it back?” He studies it a moment longer - does the weight feel different, or is he still waking up? - then shrugs and gives it a toss. It flies in a clean, precise arc, and Drake jumps to catch it.

“Thanks!” He yells back. Logan nods.

“You need t’ work on your aim, petite.” That voice is also familiar, and he looks over to see Gambit propped against a lamp post, shuffling his cards. “You missed.”

“She throws better than you, Gumbo.” Logan huffs, standing and stretching. His back pops and he grunts.

“You break Gambit’s heart, homme.” Gambit says, pausing his shuffling to put the back of his hand to his forehead. “I bake for you, and you talk t’ me like dat?” Logan rolls his eyes, but the ghost of a smirk belies his amusement.

“Don’t forget who pulled your ass outta the deep freeze, ‘homme’.” He crosses his arms loosely and looks back at the kids. “Whadda’ya want?”

“Gambit? He wants for nothin’.” Gambit returns to his cards. “Storm was lookin’ for you, though.”

“Storm?” Logan glanced over, and Gambit nodded. Logan let out a curious hum, then set off back towards the mansion, tossing a ‘thanks’ over his shoulder. As he stepped out from the shade, he was awash in warm, buttery sunshine. It was warm enough to be nice, but not overbearing, and the breeze that carried the scent of flowers and fresh-cut grass was the perfect equaliser between hot and cold. The lawn crunched under his boots as he walked. The voices of the frisbee game drew slightly softer as he approached the front of the grounds. There was a deeper sound. A low, baritone rumbling, growing louder and louder and Logan sprang back just as a red sports car zoomed into the circular driveway.

“Jesus, Slim!” Logan shouted, regaining his footing. “Eyes up!”

“Oh, man, sorry Logan!” Scott climbed out of the car with his shoulders hunched and his hand in front of his mouth, the universal posture for ‘I fucked up’. This was echoed in his scent, which was spiked with adrenaline and worry. “I didn't see you there. It’s just, Jean and I were planning this field trip for the kids, to the natural history museum. There’s this travelling exhibit that's coming to town, one about folklore and sea monsters and how that connects to different real-life sea creatures, and we thought it could be a creative tie-in for the mutant history class and how-”

“What Scott means is,” Jean steps out of the car and cuts Scott off with a hand on his shoulder and a fond smile. “We’ll pay more attention next time. Are you alright?”

“I’m always alright, Red.” Logan said, then glanced to Scott, who was fiddling with his glasses nervously. “But I’m holding this against you, next time ya try to kick me outta the pilot seat.”

“That's fair.” Scott’s shoulders relaxed and his grin became more casual. “Sorry again, Logan.” Logan turned to leave, but only managed a few paces before Jean spoke up again.

“Actually, we were hoping to run into you.” She said, taking an imploring step forward just as Logan turned back again.

“Almost did.” He huffs, and Scott sulks. Jean ignores them both and continues.

“We were hoping to ask if you and Mariko would like to chaperone with us.”

“Mariko?” He repeated, breath caught in his throat. No. No, that wasn't possible. He couldn't ask Mariko, because she was-

Just fine. She was fine. She was fine because she'd been there when he'd gone back to her home. She’d been waiting, safe and sound. And he’d dealt with the other Yakuza, and everyone else, and she’d finished disentangling her family from crime. It had been a long and arduous process. Some people had resisted at first. But in the end, she’d persisted, and eventually succeeded. The Yashida clan was respected under her lead. And she’d come to visit as a vacation from the constant work that came with running a family.

“Yeah.” Scott nodded. “The kids really like her. And, besides, we know she’s not going to be here much longer before she goes back to Japan. We thought she might like seeing a bit of American folklore before she goes home.”

“She might.” Logan nods slowly, then screws his eyes shut and rubs at his temple again, teeth grit tight. “I’ll- I’ll ask.”

“What's wrong?” Jean asked, signalling her concern in the tilt of her head and the furrow of her brow. Logan shook his head and stepped back.

“Just a headache. I’ll be fine.” He says, muffling a growl in the back of his throat. “If I see her around, I’ll ask.” And now he did walk away. His head hurt more now. This isn’t right. None of this is right. It doesn’t make sense - why doesn’t it make sense? He was still glaring at the dirt when little footsteps scurried by him. A young girl, running across the lawn. She was about seven or eight, with straight, ash-blond hair and… Green eyes. She was very familiar. Of course she was familiar, she was a student, wasn’t she? Had to be. But there’s still something– Movement behind– He turned–

Caught Victor Creed’s arm by the wrist. (Wait-) Victor looked down at him with a bemused expression.

“Uh, boo?” He blinked, waggling the fingers of his free hand in a half-assed parody of an old-school movie monster. Logan released his arm, and Victor let it drop to his side. “Hell’s got you all jumpy for?”

“What the fuck, Creed?” Logan grumbled, loosely crossing his arms over his chest. His head felt like it was about to split open.

“What?” Victor sniffed, adopting a similar posture. “Can’t a guy come ask if his partner wants to go for a hunt?” Logan tilted his head in confusion.

“Hunting? Now? … What time is it?” Both he and Victor looked up at the sun. It hung contentedly in the middle of the sky. The ferals looked back down as Victor pulled a smart phone from his pants pocket. He tapped his thumb on the almost comically undersized screen.

“Three-thirty.” He says, stuffing the phone back and away. Logan took a half step back. He scratches at the back of his head, then twists his hand in the hair that grows from the nape of his neck as though that can hold the sides of his skull together when it feels like they’re trying to rip apart.

“I… Have a class to teach.” He says it slowly, like he's trying to remind himself of the fact. It’s three thirty, and he's pretty sure it's Friday, so-

Victor laughs.

“Boy howdy, that must’ve been some nap.” He grins and picks at his fangs with a claw, peeling off a shedding layer. “You put your brats up to it, remember? Said they gotta… Earn their stripes, or, somethin’. I wasn't listening.” He pulls his hand away from his mouth to examine his nails. Satisfied, he gives his claws a quick extension-retraction, then props his hands on his hips and grins. “And before ya’ ask, yes, you're still on Earth, but Bugs Bunny is president.” Logan turned and walked away, shaking his head.

“Thank God I’m Canadian.”

“You guys got Daffy.” Victor called to his retreating back. “And what about our hunt?”

“Later.” Logan replied, waving him off. “I gotta find Storm.” And so, he continued around the perimeter of the mansion. With every step, his head hurt more and more. Maybe this was why he'd asked the kids to cover for him. He was so distracted by the pain in his skull that he only narrowly avoided Lockheed, swooping low to bring something to Kitty. Logan didn't know what it was, and shot a few curses at the tiny dragon as it flew off. Maybe Kitty oughtta invest in some pint-sized glasses. He’s still grumbling to himself when he rounds another corner, and what he sees is enough to dissipate his bad mood instantly.

There they were.

His kids - or, three of them, at least. The ones that looked like him. Akihiro, Laura, and Gabby. Even from here, he could hear what they were saying. It was a tracking lesson. Laura and Akihiro were explaining how to read broken undergrowth to determine approximate weight, speed, and direction of moving prey. Gabby was holding up Jonathan, who was chittering contentedly. Apparently, she was gonna take the oversized rat and they were both gonna hide themselves somewhere in the woods. It was a good drill - real world practice in a low-stress setting. He’d done it plenty of times before. Sometimes they’d have to find him. Sometimes it’d be someone else. Sometimes he’d just stash a random object and have them bring it back to him. And now his kids were using the same lesson.

So they did listen to him, after all.

And seeing that - seeing them, happy and safe and together - brings a smile to his face, even despite the throbbing behind his eyes and what the FUCK was wrong with his head?! He snarls to himself, squeezes his eyes shut, and shakes his head, clutching at the roots of his hair. His vision blurs and he squints. … That girl’s there again. The little one whose name he can't remember. She's hiding behind Mikoto, clutching at her leg and peering out. Mikoto doesn't react. That's weird for a lot of reasons. Mikoto liked kids - she was great with the younger students. He’d heard her refer to herself as their ‘big sister' countless times, and they adored her right back. She’d never ice one of them out. And, hold on, why was the kid even in that class? The rest of the students there were teenagers, and if they were doing field tests, this was steering towards the advanced track-

“Logan! There you are.” A voice interrupts the latest snarl of frustration before he can finish it, and he looks up. There's a trace of desperation in his eyes as he seeks her out. Her.

Storm.

Ironically, she'd always been a calming presence in his life, from the moment he met her. Her and Charles, who, speak of the devil, is at her side. They approach him with smiles that falter when they catch sight of his expression.

“What's wrong, old friend?” Charles asked, steepling his fingers in his lap. Logan pinched the bridge of his nose.

“I dunno, Chuck.” He took a moment before looking up again. “My head fuckin’ hurts, and I swear, something just ain't right about today. Can't put my finger on it.” Storm frowned in sympathy.

“You're stressed, Logan. This is exactly why we suggested you take the day off.”

… Oh yeah. They had told him to do that, hadn't they? Said he’d been pushing himself too hard and no matter how he argued - and he’d argued - they’d insisted. And now he was here. … Was that right? It felt- At least, it made-

“You still seem tired. Though I’m not surprised to find you watching over the students again, I assure you, Logan. They will be fine while you take some time for yourself.” Charles’s expression is equal parts fond and exasperated, the guiding hand that he always is. So why does this…?

“Cajun said you were looking for me.” Logan mumbled, once again blinking against the discomfort.

“I was.” Storm confirmed. “Though I told him not to wake you if you were resting. I hope he listened.”

“Does he ever?” Logan rolled his neck to one side. It doesn't help. Storm tutted and rolled her eyes.

“That man.” She huffed. Logan grunted.

“What'd ya need, Storm?” He asked. She blinked and stood a bit straighter.

“Oh! Yes. I was about to head to the greenhouse. There are some plants I need to prune, so I was wondering if you might lend a hand. It’s been far too long since we’ve had some time to really catch up.”

“Y’know what?” Logan managed a smile. “That’d be nice.”

Snikt.

“Except you're not Storm.”

And he drove his claws into her abdomen. She let out a shocked, pained gasp. It echoes off the walls of the loading bay, shattering the quiet that remained once the constant droning was gone. Already, his head started to feel better. The little girl - Sammy - toppled over from behind the guard rail. She shook her head like she was coming out of a daze. And the woman on his claws staggered back, olive face ashy and grey eyes wide.

“H-how-?” She sputtered. Logan pulled free, but didn't sheath the blades. Blood dripped onto the concrete, and it smelled real and it smelled heavenly.

“You’re good, sister, I'll give ya’ that.” He said, stepping a slow circle, stopping only when he stood between her and Sammy. The woman looked up, sweat coating her brow and making her slicked-back brown hair look even shinier. (Fuck, she was younger than he expected. Probably had a good few years before she even hit thirty.) “Not too many people can get anywhere near my head. But you made one huge mistake.” He held up his index finger. “Things never go that smooth when I’m around.”

“...Wait.” The woman slowed the desperate scrabbling she’d been doing through her belt pouches, and looked at him with what he sure hoped, for her sake, wasn't concern. “Are you saying you broke through my illusion and evaded all my attempts at killing you… Because you think it's unrealistic for you to be HAPPY?!” Logan let his shoulders sag as he rolled his eyes.

“Oh, for fuck’s- What are you, my therapist?” And when he looked back at her, she had a syringe in her hand. The scent of Sinister got stronger. “Wait, the hell is-”

She pressed the plunger down and gasped like she'd been pulled out of ice water. He lunges. She jumps back.

“Do you have a therapist?” Her voice was still unsteady, but she grinned, flashing bloody teeth. The flow of blood from her stomach had stopped. “Cause if not, I can probably help you find one. And when you get there, you can tell ‘em Siren sent-” She yelped and leaped out of the way of the concrete slab that shattered against the wall. “Hey! Rude!”

“Shut your damn mouth.” Logan growled and lunged again. She - Siren, really? Another one? - drew a pistol from her belt and fired. Logan ghosted the first three with little effort, but the fourth- Ah, shit. Too close to the kid for his liking. Better just take it. The bullet collided with his shoulder with a dull ting. Logan roared. Duck. Slice the gun. Useless. Catch her arm. Slice the stomach. Block the swing, take the headbutt - moron - both sets of claws through her shoulders into the wall.

Ding ding ding.

We have a winner.

She cried out and struggled, but it was useless.

“Why are you working with Sinister?” He snarled directly in her face. The bruising from the failed headbutt was already fading, but… Slower now.

“Who?” Siren sputtered.

“The guy who hired you. Essex, or whatever he’s callin’ himself now - and I bet he gave you that fancy needle, too.”

“A job’s a job.” She coughed. “Not all of us get a cushy mansion.”

“Not all of us use that as an excuse to hurt kids.” Logan shot back. He pulled his claws out and let her drop. She looked pale. If that shot let her heal like he thought it did, then she better hope it could fix all that. Not his monkeys, in any case.

“If you ever want a taste of the good life…” He said, stepping back and retracting his claws. “Charles Xavier, he can help you.”

“Charles Xavier…” Siren’s voice was thick and wet as she reached into her vest. “Is a fucking hypocrite.” Logan realised what she was doing just in time. He dove over Sammy right as the explosion went off.

…

The dust settled. Nothing moved. Then, the scuttle of smaller rocks as something shifted. A chunk of ceiling moved. Then, with a grunt of effort, Logan shoved it off and away. His hair was a mess, he was streaked with dirt and his own drying blood, his jacket was shredded and his shirt and jeans barely survived - but he was alive.

And more importantly, so was she.

“You alright, kid?” He asked, looking down. Sammy was curled into a tight ball at his feet, hands over her ears and trembling visibly. When he inhaled (a strange feeling, given that his lungs were still repairing themselves), what he smelled above all else, more than the blood, the accelerant, the rubble, was blind terror and tears.

“Ah, geez.” Logan scratched at his neck and crouched down. “Hey there. Sammy, right?” She didn't move. “I think you’ve had a real lousy couple of days. Is that right?” She stayed curled up. He tilted his head. “I bet I know just the thing.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out his comnlink. “I have her, Charles.”

“I heard. Your link must have turned on during the fight.” Charles’s voice - the real Charles.

“Figured.” Logan shrugged.

“Are you both alright?”

“I’m fine. Takes more than that to bring the ol’ Canucklehead down. The kid… she ain't hurt, but she's shaken up bad. Think you can get her parents on the line?”

“Of course.” Charles sounded relieved. “I’d stepped outside when I got your signal. Let me fetch them.”

“Thanks.” Logan said. “Oh, and, uh- Charles?”

“Yes?”

“I dunno how much you heard, but, uh…” Logan chewed the inside of his cheek. “What that Siren lady said? She's wrong. You saved all of us. … Especially me.”

There were a few seconds of silence. Logan wondered if he had lost the signal.

“Thank you, Logan.” Charles finally spoke. “Coming from you, that means more than I can say.” And then it was silent again, aside from the sound of a sliding door. And then Charles’s voice again, distantly. “Mr. and Mrs. Everett?”

“Is that-?” Jake sounded hesitant.

“Sammy?!” Marcy sounded close to tears.

“She's here.” Logan confirmed.

“Oh, my baby-!” Marcy wailed. There was a jostling sound, and then her voice was much clearer. “Baby, Mama’s here, is that you?”

Sammy finally looked up.

“Hey, little mermaid!” Jack's voice, and it sounded like Marcy’s weeping was contagious. “The nice man’s gonna take you home, okay? Make sure you listen to him!”

Her big, green eyes welled up with fresh tears.

“And then we’ll bake cinnamon cookies.” Marcy promised. “All day.”

“All day.” Jack echoed.

“Why don't you stay on the line til we get back?” Logan said, then held the commlink out to Sammy. “Here, little darlin’. Hang on to this for me.” She blinked up at him, uncertain. He crouched down even lower and softened his voice. “It’s real this time. I promise.” She sniffled, and when he dropped the commlink into her open palm, clutched it to her chest.

“We love you, baby.” Marcy’s voice leaked out from her fingers.

“You’ll be home soon.” Jack added.

“Y’know,” Logan rocked back on his heels. “They’re not the only ones who missed you.” Sammy looked up again, her face tear-streaked and puffy. “I had someone who was so worried, he came all this way just to help me find ya’.” And off his belt, Logan pulled Thimble the Lion - a bit flattened from having been caught underneath him during the explosion, a little dirty, and maybe a bit torn, but otherwise intact. Sammy gasped and surged forward, gathering the toy against her chest. Logan smiled, then stood.

“C’mon. Let’s blow this popsicle stand.” He held out a hand to help her up (thankfully, his gloves were dark enough to hide any bloodstains). Sammy peered up from Thimble’s threadbare fur, looked at the hand, then shifted Thimble to the other side so she had a free arm to reach up with. She hiccuped.

Well.

How the fuck did he say no to that?

“Alright, up ya’ go.” Logan said, ducking down to scoop her into the crook of his elbow. She nestled her head against his shoulder and soon, even with the revving of his motorcycle’s engine, was asleep.

******

The reunion was about as tearful as Logan expected it to be.He’d woken Sammy up when they got close. When they pulled in the driveway, she didn’t wait for the engine to cut off before she’d jumped off.

“Sammy!” Jack and Marcy cried, sprinting off the front step. They scooped her into her arms and collapsed on the lawn, holding her so tightly Logan couldn’t see her anymore. Charles wheeled out of the door, down the small step, and then moved to Logan’s side.

“Well done, old friend.” He said with a smile. Logan nodded.

“Just doing my job.” He replied, arms crossed. “Glad it’s over.” And both he and Charles smiled.

“Oh, and Logan?” Charles spoke. Logan grunted.

“As I told you, we could hear what you and Siren were saying. We will be discussing it at your next session.” Logan opened his mouth to say something, then glanced over at Sammy and reconsidered his phrasing.

“Sometimes, Charles, you can be a real pain in the- … Rear.”

Charles only laughed. Jack and Marcy looked up.

“Thank you.” Marcy sniffled, her cheek still pressed against her daughter’s hair.

“Charles?” Jack nodded, then glanced back at his wife, who nodded. Jack faced forward again. “We want to take you up on it.” Logan tilted his head to the side, then glanced at Charles with an arched brow.

“She comin’ with us?”

“Not yet.” Charles shook his head once. “But soon. We’ll make arrangements once they’ve all had some time to recover.” Logan looked back at the Everetts.

“Then why don’t you hang on to that commlink for a while?” He suggested. “It’s a direct line to the mansion. Anything happens again, we’ll be here before you know it.”

“Thank you.” Jack, this time, and his voice broke before he scrubbed his eyes with his sleeve. Sammy took advantage of the loosened grip and squirmed free, stumbled, then scurried to stand in front of Logan. He blinked, then crouched down.

“Hello, little lady.” He said. She studied him for a moment. He tilted his head. Then she carefully set Thimble down and reached for his face with both hands. He froze. Once again, he was hearing impossible voices.

But these weren’t voices he recognized.

Or- They were. One was. But- But he couldn’t be hearing it. It wasn’t possible. He’d… He’d thought he’d never hear it again. He shouldn’t be able to…

[Hello,] said a young girl’s voice. Shy and innocent.

[Hm? Oh, good afternoon, my dear.] A man’s voice. Oh god.

[What are you doing?] The girl asked. Logan struggled to breathe.

[I’m sitting, I imagine,] the man said. [Would you care to join me?] It hurt.

[But why are you sitting here?] The girl asked. [You can go.]

A moment of silence. Logan wasn’t even sure his heart was beating.

[I’m waiting for someone.] The man said finally.

[Who?] The girl asked.

Logan felt his chest constrict.

[My son.] The man said. [James.] Logan’s eyes stung. [He’s a sweet boy. A strong boy. But he’s always hated being alone. I’d like to be here for him when he arrives, to help show him the way.] His voice sounded so different than Logan remembered. Had he remembered his father wrong, all these years?

[You must’ve waited real long.] The girl said.

[I… I assume so.] The man said. [I’m not actually sure how long it’s been. I hope it’s been many, many years, though. I’d like him to have grown up by the time we see each other again. I… I hope he got the chance to do so.]

[Do you miss him?] The girl asks. Logan feels sick.

Another silence.

[Yes.] The man says softly. [But I’m glad that I do.] And then Sammy steps back, and Logan snaps back to the present. She blinks up at him curiously, waiting for a reaction he couldn’t give her. He couldn’t move.

“Logan?” Charles sounded a thousand miles away. A hand on his back. “Logan, are you alright?” He blinked, rocked back. He was replaying those words over and over again, as much as they hurt - desperately trying to cling to that voice. The first voice to ever love him.

“Sammy, what did you do-?” Marcy asked, pulling her daughter into her arms.

“I’m so sorry-” Jack began, but Logan just shook his head. He swallowed, drew a steadying breath.

“Sammy, can you do me a favour?” He asked. She nodded, peeking out from her mother’s blouse. “You ever see him again… You tell him not to wait up.” And he turned and stood, waiting for Charles, and remained silent long after they got back to the mansion.

He had a lot to think about.

#save #ic ;; lost memories ;; drabble #verse ;; leader of the pack ;; later xmen #ANYWAY #i told myself i was gonna write out a short scene i had in my head #and now its 32 pages #HERE YOU GO WORLD #with mentions of #perditos ;; mikoto #perditos ;; charles #perditos ;; victor #cyberno ;; cyclops #and #diaboliquet #and then #ouija tbt #siren tbt #john howlett tbt

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