#and winter soldier nat and steve.... like c'mon man

[magicalqueennightmare]

I Meant You

Sometimes Tony's meddling ends up being a good thing

Drinking games gone right

Warnings: Cursing, mention of kissing and steam (ish) themes

You glanced up from where you'd been laid back across Wanda's legs when Tony walked in whistling. "Uh oh" the downside of the compound when there were no missions or no big event to attend? Tony tended to get bored and a lot of times you all were dragged into it.

"Tony" you warned cautiously but he just smiled "C'mon now sparky we need some fun and I've got just the idea" you groaned under your breath glancing around the room and realizing just why Tony had summoned all of you to the media room "What's the idea?" Nat asked coming to sit next to you and Wanda, curling her legs under her gracefully. "Well I have a few bottles out of my personal collection for us mere mortals and Thor brought some mead from home for the super soldiers and demi gods amongst us"

"You called us all here to drink?" Sam spoke up but Tony shook his head "Not just drink. We're gonna do some team building exercises" you narrowed your eyes "Drinking games" he pointed to you with a smirk "first point goes to sparky for figuring it out!"

You rolled your eyes but honestly? It sounded kind of fun. Hell it wasn't like most of you ever got the chance to have downtime and a lot of you had never had a normal upbringing so why not cut loose a little? Or maybe the appearance of a certain brunette super soldier wandering into the room with Steve and Thor perked your attention.

Bucky had moved into the compound a while back, after Steve and Sam's prompting. Your quarters were on the opposite ends of the same floor. Of course you'd known stories about him, both as the winter soldier from the S.H.I.E.L.D. files and as Bucky from Steve.

You didn't judge him for the winter soldier stories, you knew those codes were far gone out of his head and he was no longer a threat in that way. He'd shied away a lot, only talking if you prompted first and honestly you hadn't thought he liked you at all until one night he'd been plagued with back to back nightmares.

You hadn't been able to sleep so you'd headed for the kitchen that was the middle mark of your floor. Tony had them all strategically lined up, something about ventilation systems or something. You knew that he had the best espresso machines in every kitchen and that the fridge and pantry would be stocked.

You walked into the empty room and asked F.R.I.D.A.Y. if she could access your Playlists. She started playing one and you smiled, humming along with it before moving around the kitchen. You started a cup of espresso then headed for the pantry to see if any of the croissants Tony had brought still remained.

You'd walked out the pantry and nearly dropped the box of croissants because Bucky had spooked you. He moved so quietly and was so damn broad you hadn't been expecting him to be standing in the doorway. "Sorry doll. Didn't mean to scare you"

The small smile that was pulling at his lips made your stomach flip. Damn he was gorgeous, those damn blue eyes made you forget your train of thought for a moment before you recovered "Oh, it's fine Bucky. Did I wake you?"

He looked confused so you motioned to the lights and speakers "I couldn't sleep" he nodded "Yeah me neither" a silence fell so you held up the box in your hand "Ever had chocolate croissants?" He shook his head so you smiled "Ever had espresso?"

He shook his head again so you grinned "So I'll set the machine to make another cup and we'll head to the media room. Tony has like every movie known to man at our fingertips so we might as well take advantage right?" He looked unsure for a second "You sure you want the company?" "Of course! Bucky you're my team mate and I'd consider us friends. Friends hang out so let's hang out" he smiled "sounds good"

Since that night you and Bucky had started getting closer. He let you in on things only Steve knew and a few things Steve didn't. When you had a nightmare he was there to comfort you and vice versa. On missions you always ended up teamed together and any outing the avengers had to attend he'd be close to your side especially after the incident where you'd threatened a reporter for making statements towards him and Natasha about the redroom and hydra.

You'd started to develop feelings for him but damn who could blame you? He was gorgeous and sweet, strong but gentle. When you'd fall asleep against him and wake up in his arms it made your mind wonder to how it would be to truly be in his arms. How did he kiss? How would it feel when he touched you? When he pulled you close?

You knew that was a line that couldn't be crossed, no matter how you felt when he smiled and asked if he could sit with you even as Tony and Sam argued over what game all of you would play. "So what's Stark up to?" You shrugged "He wants to play never have I while Sam wants to play a twisted version of two truths and a lie"

You turned towards him and saw the confusion in his eyes "Bucky, you don't know either of those games do you?" He shook his head so you quickly explained the basics of both games, not only to him but to Steve and Thor as well.

By that time Tony and Sam were through arguing and turned to adress the room "We're playing never have I first if there's no interesting incidents we'll move onto two truths and a lie" "Set up" Sam motioned to the table so everyone grabbed a glass.

You were seated cross legged between Bucky and Nat. So far you'd taken two shots, Bucky had taken one of the mead while Nat was three shots in. Everyone around the table had taken at least one shot.

"Ok here's one" Nat spoke up and when you cut your eyes at her she gave you a wink "Never have I...had feelings for someone younger than me"

Tony took a shot considering he was married to Pepper who was two year younger than him. Wanda took a shot since technically Vision was younger than her. Steve and Thor both took a shot. What surprised you and made your thoughts run rampant was when Bucky gave you a small smile before tipping back a shot himself.

Who did he have feelings for? It couldn't be you no matter if the thought had been fleeting through your head. Could it be Nat? Or maybe Maria or even Sharon.

Of course he'd have feelings for someone, hell he was allowed to date same as the rest of you. No matter Iif the thought of him with someone else made your heart clench.

Bucky noticed how you went quiet at his side. You'd been laughing and joking over the various questions up until that point. Christ, had you figured out he meant you?

Maybe that's what was wrong. You knew he meant you when he took a shot for having feelings for someone younger than him and didn't feel the same.

He didn't want to make you uncomfortable, hell you were one of his closest friends now. When he'd moved into the compound he hadn't been sure anyone would trust him, not that he blamed them. You on the other hand had been one of the first to greet him with a smile.

You were beautiful and smart. You were able to think on your feet during missions and always did the headcount once everyone was back on the jets to ensure no one was left behind. You'd defended him and Natasha alike to the press.

More than one night when neither of you could sleep you'd end up in the media room watching some movie you'd clicked on. He hadn't cared about the movie as much as the company. You always slowed his mind down and help chase the demons out.

The first time you'd curled up into his side he'd been sitting with his arm across the back of the couch. You were sitting hip to hip with him citing that the movie had freaked you out a bit but you refused to not finish it. He hadn't minded you getting closer. The movie was almost finished when he realized your head was leaned over on his shoulder where the metal of his arm met with flesh.

He hadn't been sure if he should wake you or not. As he sat there you snuggled closer to him and despite himself he found a smile working its way onto his face. He'd let his mind wonder what it would be like for you to be in his arms in earnest, to feel your lips against his.

He'd never meant to fall for you, it just sort of happened and now had he inadvertently pushed you away by half admitting his feelings?

You shook yourself from the shock of Bucky admitting he had feelings for someone to clear your throat "Ok here's one, never have I had merchandise of me" you laughed when damn near everyone in the room aside from yourself, Bucky, Wanda and Maria took a shot. "Ok Sparky you got me on that one. My turn. Never have I threw a punch on reporters" you, Nat, Sam and Maria all took shots.

You leaned a little closer to Bucky, trying to get your mind off the question of who he had feelings for. You missed the look Nat shot Sam who spoke up "Never have I had feelings for someone older than me" you leaned up to glare at him before taking a shot. Luckily you weren't the only one, Nat and Maria both took a shot which opened a whole new line of questions.

You avoided Bucky's eyes when he bumped your arm with his. He leaned down next to your ear "Is it Steve?:" you shook your head slightly "Nope" "C'mon now didn't think we had too many secrets any more" you turned to face him, thoughts escaping you at those blue eyes staring back "Yes I have feelings for someone older than me, way older but no it's not Steve"

You felt everyone's eyes on you which made heat rush up your neck. Normally you could handle it but given the amount you'd drank mixed with the fact that Bucky clearly had meant someone else was too much. You downed the shot in front of you before standing up "Excuse me. I've got to use the bathroom" you turned and walked quickly out the room with intentions to hide in your quarters long enough to let the embarrassment pass.

Maybe you could convince Bucky you meant Loki or Sif?

The moment you left the room every set of eyes landed firmly on Bucky "Tin man are you really that dense?" Tony was the first to speak up. Bucky was trying to comprehend what had just happened "What the hell did I do Stark?"

"She means you man!" Sam shoved him when he spoke. "What? No she doesn't" Bucky argued which made Nat stand up and walk over to him "Dammit I know her better than anyone. She's had feelings for you for a while and you've had feelings for her. Man up, go chase her" "and if you're wrong?" He asked so Nat pointed towards Tony "I will let him take out a billboard that says Natasha was wrong for once"

----------

Bucky headed in the direction you'd went knowing you were more than likely in your quarters. The closer he got the clearer he could make out the faint music slipping under the door. It was that band you loved.

He paused for a second before finally knocking. The moment the door opened he saw your eyes widen "Damn I was hoping for Natasha" he shrugged "I can go get her?" He started to walk off but you grabbed his arm, your fingers curling around the cool vibranium of his palm. "Wait, Bucky what did you need?"

He looked down where you were holding his hand and a smile slipped onto his face. "I meant you" the words escaped without any thought behind them but the moment they were out in the air he didn't want to take them back.

----------

You froze, fingers digging into Bucky's hand slightly. He meant you? "Are you saying that to save my feelings because Nat told you I meant you?" He smirked slightly "Actually Nat, Tony and Sam told me you'd meant me but no I'm not saving feelings. I meant you"

You stood there for a second before Bucky moved, his right hand cupping the side of your face "Can I kiss you?" You nodded and he smiled before leaning down to capture your lips with his.

He tasted sweet, the honey of the mead prominent in flavor and on his tongue. You sighed slightly and felt him relax into you as he deepened the kiss. His left hand went to your waist pulling you flush against him even as you were forced to pull away in need of air "Well damn" you breathed out and he smiled "That a good reaction?" You laughed breathlessly "The best. Now please kiss me again"

[beautifulfeelingmv]

ok but. steggy this peggynat that. consider. peggy, natasha and steve in the captain carter universe are all dating eachother. thank you for your time i will not be taking any criticisms.

[bottoms-movie]

SAMBUCKY FIC RECS PT. 2

The first part did really really so I decided to make a second part of sambucky fic recs. Just as the last one: the fics are split into three categories: based on tfatws, canon divergence, and au. CHECK OUT PART ONE HERE All fics are completed and all are on AO3. 

BASED ON TFATWS

The Truths Beneath Our Ribs | Mature | 6,742 words

5 times Bucky wears Sam's things +1 time Sam wears something of Bucky's

anything you can do, i’ll do you better | Explicit | 5,526 words

Steve is going to kill them if they don't learn to get along, but did they have to take it so far?

making amends | Explicit | 8,645 words

“Not Cap yet,” Sam said. He looked a little ruefully at his hands, which were covered in nicks and cuts. He could already feel his palms bruising from that last shield catch, but at least nothing was broken this time.

“I respect that,” Bucky said slowly. Sam raised an eyebrow, but didn’t respond. Bucky flexed and unflexed the vibranium fingers of his left hand, a nervous habit that Sam had clocked ages ago. “And you’re right.”

“Thanks, I know.” Sam waited a beat. “About what?”

Muscle Memory | 3 parts | Explicit | 13,156 words part 1: Muscle Memory | Teen | 1,766 words

Barnes sighs, and it’s a deep, soul-weary thing. “Maybe no one ever told you this, but I’m telling you right now. You don’t have any obligation to care about me because Steve did. You don’t have to pretend.”

Sam blinks, taken aback. He has to think, really think, about what he says next, because it’s - it’s either going to build or break something.

You’re My World | Explicit | 6,585 words

“I… oh, I get it now.” Sam tilted his head, perceptive as ever, goddammit. “All this flirting with my sister, that was just to get my attention, wasn’t it? I know it was. Say it.”

“That wasn’t—” Bucky croaked, but Sam wasn’t having it.

He huffed a low laugh, and bulldozed right through Bucky’s feeble pretense. “You like it when I pin you against the wall? Take away all that power you have, that strength that your arm gives you? Make you feel small, maybe?”

Call Me By Your (Pet) Name | Teen | 6,928 words

“You got a list of the nicknames available to us lesser mortals?” Sam continued, staring straight ahead at the seat in front of him. “The ‘you’re not Steve Rogers, so don’t even think about it’ collection?”

“Yeah, sure, there’s a list,” Bucky replied, pausing long enough to draw a pointed look from Sam. “Bucky,” he finished, gesturing broadly with his arm to convey the obviousness of the answer.

5 times Sam and Bucky used pet names as a joke + 1 time they used them in earnest

That’s not very gunkle of you | 2 parts | 4,325 words part 1: Bestie Vibes Only | Teen | 1,822 words

“What’s buzzin’ cousin?” Says Bucky, sitting down next to Sam on the docks.

That’s the moment that Sam realizes he needs to change tactics, no more subtly looking up definitions for his weird old person slang, it’s time to fight fire with fire.

“Not much bro, this view is highkey just hitting different TBH” he says, casually looking out at the water.

There’s a beat of silence and then,

“That’s swell doll, I just ate some four-o cackle jelly with side arms, and I’m looking for some kicks, you dig?

Oh, this means war.

misunderstandings | Not Rated | 3,167 words

Sam thinks Sarah and Bucky had a date, and he's Not Okay

you walked into my life to offer me a better view | Teen | 2,534 words

He was standing twenty feet away at the edge of the docks, chatting with Sarah, and Sam couldn't take his eyes away. Bucky's smile was warm, wide, and when he tipped his head back and laughed, his nose scrunching up and eyes crinkling at the corners, Sam could feel it vibrate straight to his heart.

falling, falling, flying | Teen | 2,778 words

Bucky had kissed him.

And Sam had pulled away, because that beautiful golden sunset made Bucky’s hair gleam with the faintest touch of blond, that rare summer breeze hissed like a dying missile past Sam’s ears, the kiss was so familiar, too familiar, and Sam was falling, falling—

(“Let yourself be happy, Sam. Please.”)

lonely boy, you are my world (and i could be anything you need) | Teen | 5,747 words

It all starts with Sam, a shelter, and this sweet kitten that reminded him far too much of a certain century-old, grouchy super soldier.

too dangerous to fall | Explicit | 3,466 words

Bucky Barnes is a one-armed menace. He has murder eyes and no care for basic safety protocols. His jokes are terrible and his bad moods are worse. He’s a godawful roommate who leaves his wet towels on the floor and his combat knives in the linen cabinet. Sam can’t stand the sight of him.

What happens in Louisiana | General | 3,478 words

But just then, in the engine room of the Wilson family boat, away from prying eyes, it felt like something they both needed. The closeness. The warmth.

Steve would laugh at them. Two grown men not being able to get it together. He would roll his eyes at Buck, nudge him with his elbow and tell him “you’re sweet on Sam Wilson so make a move already, punk.”

keep the ashes from my heart (and walk away) | Explicit | 4,412 words

“Jamie asked me out on a date,” Sam says. Bucky swallows. “Took him long enough,” he says, keeping his tone light. He bumps their shoulders together for good measure. “You should go for it.” “You really think so?” Sam asks, looking at him. “Yeah, man,” Bucky says. He fixes his gaze on Torres, high up in the sky, sunlight glinting off his wings. It hurts Bucky’s eyes. He blinks, rapidly. “You should be with somebody who can make you happy.”

(In which Sam starts dating someone who is not Bucky, and Bucky pines, gets seriously injured, and proves himself wrong.)

Hey Samuel | Teen | 3,223 words

"Bucky."

"Yeah?" He looked up eyes wide. Did he say something out loud?

"We're walking the wrong way."

"Oh." Right. Um. "Let's get ice cream."

"I don't know about you, man, but if I eat ice cream in this weather I will get sick."

Bucky was at a loss for words. What now?

OR Ride along Bucky's journey of figuring out when exactly did he fall for Sam Wilson.

Anyday, everyday | General | 6,735 words

He moved his head and locked eyes with Sam. "D'you- can you.. help me cut my hair?" He asked. He forced himself to look away, feeling embarrassed for asking him to come all this way just to give him a haircut.

His stomach dropped when he felt Sam let go of his hand to stand up. Of course he was about to leave. Who wouldn't want to leave Bucky?

"C'mon, Buck. Let me cut your hair." Bucky's eyes snapped up to Sam's. He had a small smile on his face and his hand was reaching out, waiting for Bucky to take it.

Or; the five times Bucky fell more and more in love with Sam, and the one time he finally got the guts to tell him.

If You’ll Have Me | Teen | 4,779 words

Sam casually shrugged, although there was an intent look in his eyes, "Yeah, well it's getting late and I didn't feel like flying anymore so I was wondering if your old man self is okay with-"

"You can stay here." Bucky quickly finished for him.

I like Bucky, Sam I am | Not Rated | 2,653 words

"I would kiss you on the boat. Or in Wakanda by your goats."

Static in the Dark | Teen | 4,989 words

So prompt idea, some bad guy follows Bucky to the docks for revenge (over whatever you can decide) and Sarah gets to see how protective Bucky really is over Sam when he gets in the line of fire

CANON DIVERGENCE

A Different Kind of Problem | Explicit | 7,616 words

“Do you know what it feels like to be insatiable?”

Two months ago, an interrogation gone wrong left Sam with Bucky’s explicit words seared into his brain and body.

Now, Bucky is living in the Avengers Compound, making pancakes and wearing Steve’s huge sweatshirts, fluffy haired and a little shy, seemingly completely content to be on house arrest — and Sam has never been more confused. Whatever Steve thinks, Sam doesn’t have a problem with Bucky. This domesticity is just so at odds with the feral sexuality Bucky had used to rattle Sam during his interrogation. Where did that side of Bucky go? And why can’t Sam stop thinking about finding it? Maybe Sam does have a problem with Bucky… it’s just not the problem Steve thinks it is.

Bucky’s Choice | Not Rated | 4,753 words

When Bucky enters Westview to try to help Wanda Maximoff, he is confronted with something he never expected- Steve Rogers, back from the dead and ready to start a life with Bucky in Westview. It's everything that Bucky ever wanted, everything that Steve abandoned when he went back in time to live his life with Peggy Carter. But Bucky and Sam have been involved for months, and Sam is waiting for Bucky outside of the Hex. Bucky has to make a choice- the life he always wanted with Steve, or a new start with Sam?

tonight i’ll need you to stay | General | 2,227 words

For once, Bucky wants to stop leaving when things are finally looking up. And he wants people to stay with him, too.

(or, 3 times bucky needed an excuse to stay with sam, and the one time he didn't)

How to Win a Supersoldier in Ten Days | Explicit | 14,901 words

When they realize that all the Winter Soldier's interactions with Sam are just him trying to Awkward MurderBot Flirt (TM) with the sexy man, Steve, Tony, and Nat convince Sam to play the honeypot and bring Bucky in.

Sam's pretty sure the honeypot isn't supposed to fall in love with the target, but what can you do?

at the end of the war (what’s mine is yours) | Mature | 4,290 words

They don't talk about it: that's how it works.

warm blood (feels good, i can’t control it anymore) | Explicit | 4,492 words

Sam's just chilling watching TV one evening when Bucky comes in and stares at him silently for a minute or two before sitting down on the couch. He's pretty close to Sam.

Okay, he's really close to Sam. Like, Sam would be using the word 'cuddling' if it wasn't so bizarre.

"What," he says, carefully not looking at Bucky, and Bucky huffs a sigh.

"Steve's not here," he says as if it's obvious. "Don't make it weird. Just- shut up."

Caught With Their Pants Down | Explicit | 3,539 words

“Sam, this guy is not coming, the intel was false,” Bucky replied. “I get this whole ticking boxes and what not, but Rogers got it wrong, and for the love of God I need a fucking toilet.”

“You need to learn to plan your water intake better, is what you need. You’re a damn fool and I don’t know why I put up with you.”

“Because you love me,” Bucky replied, and Sam could hear the smile in his voice.

“In your damn dreams, Barnes.”

They’d been fucking for about six months, but Sam didn’t want Bucky to go getting a big head about it.

AU

sharp teeth, soft heart | 3 parts | 17,866 words part 1: you touch me within and so i (know i could be human once again) | Explicit | 12,444 words 

It’s inevitable, the way it goes. He’s my friend, Steve says, and he is, he is, he must be. Sam’s best friend is Steve, and Steve’s best friend is a werewolf, that’s just how Sam’s life works now.

But once he realizes he’s attracted to Bucky and Bucky can tell, everything becomes, like, a thousand percent more difficult to negotiate. Sam’s just trying to live his life, that’s all, and he keeps getting confronted by Bucky Barnes in a soft flannel shirt, sleeves rolled up, hair all soft and shiny. Bucky glances over at him and smirks, and this is really very embarrassing, how Sam can’t hide his attraction even if he keeps a totally straight face.

I’m so into you I can barely breathe | Explicit | 6,515 words

Sam Wilson had a long day dealing with morons, so he decided to finally go to the famous club in town. There he meets someone who just might get him back in a good mood. And then some.

twelve ounce steak (boxers in briefs) | Explicit | 3,753 words

Sam has pretty lips. Bucky seems to think so, too.

caught it bad (i’ll be on the way) | Mature | 4,830 words

Sam constantly gets roped into doing dumb things with Steve, but this time, it works out perfectly for him.

meet me in the a.m. | Teen | 3,147 words

Steve accidently starts a fire and Bucky's tired. When unbelievably hot firefighter Sam saves the day, though, he can't really be that mad.

i wanna savour, save it for later | Not Rated | 6,419 words

"It's his damn ratings, man," Sam says. "It's weird 'cause when you read the reviews, he seems to like our food and all. Nothing but praise for days. And then you get to the rating, and it's always the same. Three goddamn stars."

Bucky tips his beer bottle from side to side, lips pursing slightly. "I see. And that's… a bad thing?"

"We are not a three-star joint," Sam says flatly.

Or, the one where food truck owner Sam gets caught up in his quest to unmask an anonymous food blogger. Falling for one of his regulars was never on the menu.

we were a fire with no smoke | Explicit | 15,295 words

Sam can’t help but roll his eyes. Take the boys out of New York but they’re still Brooklyn Catholics, that’s clear enough. Bucky catches the gesture, smirks hard enough Sam can see his eye teeth. It should be dangerous but he’s beautiful, pale and charming and recklessly easy.

“You wanna come in?” Sam asks, ignoring the noise Steve makes, and Bucky’s smile gets wider.

“Yeah,” he says. Steps up close to Sam. “I do.”

my house of stone, your ivy grows | Teen | 9,042 words

When Sam Wilson inherits the manor of the old man he once took care of, it feels like his luck is finally looking up. It's an opportunity for a fresh start, something he's in desperate need of. When he arrives, however, it becomes clear that an easy transition into estate living is not exactly a possibility. The house is run-down, nothing like Sam remembers it, and the groundskeeper — who Sam apparently has to share the house with, wants nothing to do with him.

You Smiled Because You Knew | Teen | 3,754 words

"You've got the wrong address," the man who'd answered growled. He had long, scraggly hair that had mostly escaped his attempts to pull it away from his face. He had nice eyes, and wouldn't have been unattractive, especially with a shave, except for the scowl. "Nobody here wants or needs your . . . services."

It was apparent by the tone the man did not appreciate Sam's hard work.

Well, that was tough shit.

[bumblesimagines]

Green Thumb

Part 18

Request: Yes or No

Also kind of short

~

You stared out at the river, fingers warm from the heat of the mug in your hands. You felt tired, empty, and disappointed. The roof was a nice place to sit and think. Your gaze dropped down to the ground below.

"I don't believe this is the safest way to test your abilities, (Y/N). Especially since Sam doesn't have on his wings." Vision said in concern, watching Sam hype himself up. You shook your head, laughing.

"It's definitely not safe." You grinned, watching Sam. He looked down from his spot on the roof, shaking off nerves.

"Run the idea by me again." Vision said as Wanda chuckled softly.

"Alright, Sam is gonna jump off the roof and I'm gonna use my powers to keep up in the air. If they don't work, Wanda will catch him."

"You're gonna allow this, Wanda?" Vision looked at the redhead. Wanda shrugged, sipping on her tea with a small smile.

"Ready?" Sam called, sliding down his googles. You nodded, backing up a bit, grinning widely. Sam backed up out of sight before running off the roof. You raised your hand, watching him suddenly fly up. He screamed, arms and legs flailing.

"You might gonna to catch him, Vis!" You called as Sam briefly disappeared past a cloud. Vision flew up, catching Sam and flying back to the ground. Sam raised a hand to his chest, feeling his heartbeat as he panted.

"Again?"

"Again."

"Kind of chilly out here, don't you think?" You turned your head, looking at Tony. He took a seat beside you, sighing.

"So, how'd it go?" Tony asked, turning to look at you. You licked your lips, lightly shrugging as you sipped on your hot chocolate.

"Good. I learned a lot about my family. It was confirmed that, uh, I was indeed abandoned by my mother. It's great." You told him, giving a small nod. Tony hummed.

"It builds character." Tony said. You snorted, looking down at the hot chocolate.

"Yeah, I guess so." You muttered.

"What'd you learn?" Tony asked, watching you. You sighed, head tilting up. You stared at the passing clouds.

"That my dad was killed here... By.. The Winter Soldier." You breathed out. Tony stayed silent, frowning as he nodded.

"I.. I can't blame him. He was brainwashed and not in control. How did you react when you found out about Bucky and your parents?" You asked, looking at him. Tony licked his lips, looking away from you. He seemed to think about his words, eyes squinting slightly.

"I.. I was more hurt by Rogers than by what Barnes did. Rogers kept it from me and he never planned on telling me. Even if we didn't consider each other friends.. We were teammates. How was I supposed to be okay with trusting him with my life when he was never gonna tell me about my parents?" Tony frowned, sighing heavily. You bit your bottom lip.

"I'm sorry Steve betrayed you like that." You said softly. You wouldn't want to work with someone who betrayed you either. You took in a small breath, looking at him curiously.

"Do you think Steve knows? About my dad?"

"Unless Barnes saw some similarities between you and your dad, probably not. Your dad covered his tracks. He made sure he wouldn't be connected to his family. Very smart of him." Tony offered a small smile. You reached into your back pocket, taking out a photo. It was of the whole family. Your grandparents, Florine, Michael, and even Gerdie as a pup. You turned it around to the back, looking at the phone number.

'Call when you need me, kid'

"People really need to stop calling me kid." You mumbled, huffing softly. Tony chuckled.

"You look like one."

"Oh, fuck off, old man." You gave Tony a playful glare. He scoffed, touching his chest dramatically.

"Are you really gonna retire? I mean, at this point, you're asking to be called an old man." You pointed out, grinning when Tony rolled his eyes.

"Pepper and Morgan need me. I don't want to be an absent father. I know how it feels to have one and.. I don't want to be like my father. I won't make the same mistakes."

"You'll make new mistakes." You shrugged lightly. Tony shot you a look. "But I'm sure you're a great father!"

"Right." Tony grunted, shaking his head. You chuckled softly, placing your cup beside you. You inhaled softly.

"When I was drunk.. I vividly remembering saying that you suck before passing out. What happened?"

"Oh, you were a goddamn mess. Definitely an emotional drunk." Tony replied, making you groan softly, cheeks flushing from embarrassment.

"You said I was a lucky bastard and you cried.. You also kissed me." Tony looked at you, gaze searching for a reaction. Your lips parted, brows raising.

"Oh."

"Yeah."

"Uhm.." You licked your lips, straightening up and clearing your throat. You stayed silent, thinking of what to say in response.

"Pepper doesn't have to know. It was a drunk kiss that nobody really saw, right? I mean, I already have enough on my plate. I don't need an angry wife on top of that." You blurted out, shrugging lightly. Tony cleared his throat, nodding.

"Yeah, of course. It barely lasted a second." Tony looked forward, scratching the side of his neck. Awkward silence took over, both you and Tony unsure on how to proceed without making things even more weird.

"How are you?" Tony suddenly asked, turning towards you. "Like, in general."

"Terrible."

"Yeah, I feel that. Wanna... Wanna talk about it?" Tony asked. You stared at him, brows furrowing.

"Are you practicing on me for when Morgan needs a talk with you?" You questioned, head tilting slightly. Tony shrugged.

"Yes and no."

"That's nice." You huffed softly, gaze drifting towards the setting sun. You watched him, shoulders slumping.

"I feel.. Incredibly alone. Yeah, Nat is here but I can't rely on her. She has her own issues to deal with. Bruce... Bruce is god fucking knows where and if I tried talking to him, he'd probably just stand there. Clint is also god fucking knows where. Thor fucked off the moment they came back from killing Thanos. The outerspace crew is kind of weird. Steve is... Steve. He'd just give me a speech and a pat on the shoulder. Carol barely comes to Earth and she's also pretty intimidating." You licked your lips, shaking your head as you brought your knees up to your chest.

"The people I used to talk to have either.. Died or chosen to leave. I have to take care of a big ass fucking farmhouse cause its goddamn owner left! My life is slowly falling apart and I have to comfort myself cause nobody seems to care enough! I am so fucking tired of feeling tired. I thought I had found a family but I guess I'm not good enough for those." You raised your voice, feeling the wind get harsh for a quick minute. You let out a deep breath, eyes shutting to keep the tears from falling. You felt an arm wrap around your shoulders, gently leaning you against a warm body. You sniffle, a shakey sigh leaving you.

"And I am so tired of crying." You whispered. Tony gently leaned his head against yours, hand squeezing your arm.

"I know.. I'm sorry." He said quietly. You relaxed against him, feeling numb and empty. You looked down at the photo. You wondered if this was the life Michael had wanted for you. To be a hero to a planet missing fifty percent of its inhabitants.

"You know what might make you feel better?" Tony asked.

"What?" You sat up, using the sleeve of your jacket to wipe your nose as you sniffled. Tony stood, motioning for you to follow. He offered his hand, watching you pick up the mug. You took his hand, holding it as Tony led you off the roof and down the stairs. You placed the mug on the nearest table, letting him guide you outside and onto the field. You stood in the middle, looking at him with furrowed brows.

"Letting it out." He finally answered, letting go of your hand and taking some steps back. He raised his arms.

"Let it out. Scream, kick, punch, curse. Let it all out." Tony said, smiling widely. You sniffled, still unsure.

"C'mon, I'll do it with you. On a count of three, okay? One... Two... Three!" You inhaled with Tony, eyes shutting as you screamed as loud as you could. You heard Tony chuckle in amazement, opening your eyes. You noticed he had been knocked down onto the grass, the trees nearby having been bent back by the wind. The grass around your feet were burned and gray clouds had formed in the sky. You noticed Tony looking up at something behind you so you turned, blinking and slowly looking up at the large ice spikes that almost reached the clouds.

"Holy shit." You whispered, taking a step back.

"You're still on the tip of the iceberg with your powers, Elsa." Tony said, getting up as it began to thunder. You felt some weight off your chest, turning to face you.

"You know.. That actually did help." You chuckled, smiling gently.

"Well, I am a genius." Tony replied, digging into his pocket and pulling out car keys.

"I should get going. Pepper's cooking dinner and I don't want to miss it." Tony said. You nodded, walking with him towards the road. A sports car drove out of the garage, stopping infront of Tony.

"All my things have already been sent home." Tony said, looking at you. You hummed, nodding.

"You can be an asshole sometimes but.. You'll be missed." You told him softly. Tony gave a genuine soft smile.

"You should visit, kid. You might like my new place." Tony said, opening the door and getting in.

"Give me a call and I'll visit when I can." You said, watching him buckle up. Tony nodded, sliding on sunglasses.

"I'll be seeing you."

"Not really looking forward to it." You replied, hearing a small snort before the car drove off. You watched it go, sighing softly. You looked over at the spikes, licking your lips.

"What more can I do?"

~

Tags: @geek-and-proud @wolfelocksley @babyvisionisamenace @jjk-is-my-shit

[wanderingworlds513]

Soulmates pt. 2

Based of this tik tok

Also sorry it took so long, I don't often have time.

Part 1

Bucky x reader

Summary: When you meet your soulmate the whole world bursts into color. What happens when yours happens to be an assassin of 50 years? And you meet him when he's trying to kill you and your friends?

Previously: "Is that... the Winter Soldier?" I asked. "Yeah" Steve breathed. "Sh*t" I cursed under my breath as he stalked towards us. ---------- In three seconds, Nat manages to point her gun at my soulmate and a car that must have been following us crashes in to the back of our car. Making Natasha drop the gun and throw me into the back of Steve's seat. The other car pushed us towards my soulmate, the scary man dressed in tight black combat leather, most likely armed to the teeth, if you forgot. My soulmate jumped back on our car right as Nat got her gun. He punched a hole through the window, and ripped Sam's steering wheel off. Natasha began to shoot upwards towards the Soldier, but he jumped to the one behind us. The car rammed us again making us swerve, Steve grabbed Natasha, and Sam. Sam dragged me to the front, "Hang on!" Steve, gripping the other two and his shield tight, while Sam held me. Steve shoved the car door open and dragged us all out and the our car did multiple flips and crashed. Steve and Nat slid while Sam and I fell off half way and rolled on impact. I might have at least sprained something.  The other car skidded to a stop and the Soldier hopped off the hood of the car. He grabbed a gun from one of his partners, I guess and aimed it at Steve and Natasha. I didn't have much time to look because his 'friends' started shooting at us. Same and I took shelter behind an abandoned car. They continued to shoot at us. "Rude." I muttered. "Seriously Y/n? Now?" Sam hissed. "I think this is a perfect time to be sarcastic!" I shot back. I grabbed my gun, and shot blindly at the people shooting us. See I would have done that earlier but finding out that your soulmate is your attacker is a lot to process. "C'mon follow me." Sam ordered. We ran a little ways. Before we heard an explosion followed by a series of gun shots. "Она у меня. Найди его." I mange to hear, (She's mine. Find him.) I register a loud thumb/crash followed up by to more quieter ones. Sam and I get our hands on some knives, we snuck up on the two guys left on the bridge. Attacking them and stealing their guns. Trying to help Steve I took out one of the guys shooting at him. "Go, we got this!" Sam yells, "we very much don't but okay." I mutter aiming for another minion. I hear another explosion. A little later I her Natasha yell "GET OUT OF THE WAY! STAY OUT OF THE WAY!" Before getting cut off. Sam and I finished the other enemies off, Sam and I find his wings. We fly to where the others are. Sam drops me a little ways and I hit the ground rolling before running a shot ways to hear Steve whisper "Bucky...?" "Who the hell is Bucky?" In a moment of confusion the Soldier aims his pistol at Steve, but Sam flies in and kicks the Soldier aside. My soulmate looks at me, as if memorizing my face before looking at Steve. What ever he was thinking he quickly brushes it aside, and takes aim again, but before he can shoot Natasha shoots at him creating smoke for him to vanish, which he does. Sirens while and we are soon surrounded by HYDRA agents being led by Rumlow. "Drop the shield, Cap! On your knees! Get on your knees! Now! Get down! Get down!" He barks. Steve raises his hands up slowly "Get on your knees! Down!" He kicks Steve and I's leg and we kneel down "Don't move."  Rumlow looks at the helicopter flying above us and warns Rollins who's holding Steve at gunpoint "Put the gun down. Not here. Not here!" Rollins reluctantly lowers his gun, the HYDRA agents then take us into custody.  ~ ~~ ~~~ ~~~Bonus~~~ [Bucky PoV] Back to the base, I sit in the chair as the doctor examine my arm. Memories or flashbacks I think our mine flash through my head.  "Sergeant Barnes..." My old doctor crooned, I was somewhere else, than the lab right now, the scene changed again. I was dangling off the side of a train the blond man was there screaming "Bucky, no!" As I fell.

The scene changed to a peaceful class room. "Now you can't see color until you meet your soulmate." The teacher he assumes says. A little girl raised her hand and the teacher pointed to the girl. "What's a soulmate?" The little girl asks. "Somebody who is made for you, and will love you, no matter what." "The procedure has already started." I'm being dragged through the snow.  The scene changed again my old doctor and some other agents are doing something to my arm. I try to strangle one of the scientists that check on me. My old doctor notices immediately and sticks a needle in me.  "You are to be the new fist of HYDRA." I go back under. I snap back to the present and knock over the HYDRA agent fixing my arm, one of the men points his gun at me, I sit there and think. "Sir, he's...he's unstable. Erratic." One of the doctors explained to my handler, I hear what he says, but it's like I'm submerged under water. "Mission report." My handler orders. I continue to stare blankly into space. "Mission report, now." When i don't respond he moves closer to me and suddenly strikes me hard in the face. "The man on the bridge..." I pause thinking back to when he was yelling my name. "Who was he?" He sighed "You met him earlier this week on another assignment."I knew him. He sits in front of me. "Your work has been a gift to mankind. You shaped the century, and I need you to do it one more time. Society is at a tipping point between order and chaos. Tomorrow morning we're gonna give it a push. But, if you don't do your part, I can't do mine, and HYDRA can't give the world the freedom it deserves." I licked my lips "But I knew him. And the wo-" I cut myself off the can't know about her and I can't forget her. I know she's important, just not how much. "Prep him." He says "He's been out of cryo-freeze too long." One of the scientists fretted, like they cared. "Then wipe him and start over." My handler states, as they strapped me into the chair, shoving a mouth guard in my mouth. He began to leave as the machine started to whirl, my chest was heaving. One thought racing through my head. Don't forget her. I scream out in pain. Don't forget her. Everything falls black.

Part 3?

Also I just noticed that the actual creator or the tik tok made it a series, so most likely I might trying to avoid making the next parts similar.

Other notes is if you want to be in the taglist for this please tell me. I'm also slightly a lot sleep deprived so sorry if this doesn't make any sense.

*Important* I will try to keep these as neutral as possible but keep in mind that I am a short woman with long straight hair and pale skin, so most of the time the reader is fem(and sometimes I write as if I am the reader{height and hair wise}, if that makes sense) but if there is something that you think is not inclusive enough APPEARANCE wise, tell me and I will fix it. Thank you for reading if you read this far!

Tag list: @hoodedbirdie

[missmonsters2]

Between the Lines || II

PAIRING: Steve Rogers & Fem!Reader (Platonic) / Natasha Romanoff x Fem!Reader / Wanda Maximoff x Fem!Reader / Natasha Romanoff x Fem!Reader x Wanda Maximoff

Summary: Vampire AU. Life has changed drastically since the 1600s. Things are always on the move, and you’ve been very careful to not get on SHIELDs radar. Living on the down-low owning a café, you’re content to live out a quiet existence. That is until the Avengers enter your life.

[Set after the New York Invasion, in CAWS, and goes up to AoU. Canon divergent after.]

Warnings: This series will contain smut(**), poly-relationship, and dark themes.

Note: Enter stage left; Natasha. I’m excite guys. Please let me know if you want to be on the taglist for this fic :)!

PART I

PART II of XX

Count: 2842

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"This is really good, how'd you know about this place?"    

You grinned as you watched Steve take a massive bite from his steak, groaning slightly in delight as he did. You had ordered yourself a steak and was in the process of cutting up, eating it slowly.   

"Sarah, the employee at my shop, recommended it. She says her boyfriend loves it here, so I thought it might be a great place to try. I'm glad you like it. The steak just melts, hey?"   

Steve nodded as he swallowed. You thought it was funny as he was a little confused, and maybe even a little grossed out when you had gotten your steak blue rare. But if you were going to eat a steak, you might as well get it as rare as possible. The food itself tasted great, but you knew that even if you felt full, you couldn't get any of the nutrients from the meal. The venom would break down the food completely, taking nothing, and you would have to feed later on tonight.  

You had also picked this restaurant because it was further from the Stark Tower. You were right that David was entirely pissed you were taking it as far as you were, but when you're alone for centuries, being around someone felt amazing.  

The 'friend date' was going well. They could talk and laugh, ask questions that allowed them to get to know each other more without revealing anything too deep.   

Still, something was missing, and you couldn't put your finger on it. Maybe it's been too long since you've had a human friend? Was it because everything about you guys was fake since you were both hiding things from each other?   

They walked through Central Park, enjoying the beautiful weather. They were currently debating who was more iconic; Ella Fitzgerald or Louis Daniel Armstrong.   

"Oh man, I might have to ban you from the café if you insist on Armstrong."   

Steve laughed as he shook his head. "C'mon, he has so many classics!"   

"Shh, Steve. I will hear no more of this nonsense from you," you said with a wag of your finger at him. Steve laughed softly once more, his eyes softening as they continued to walk.   

Miraculously, the rest of the night continued on as normal. Steve was dropping you back at the café so you could get your car and then go relieve the babysitter you had gotten for Allison. Like a gentleman, Steve walked you to your vehicle to ensure you would get in safely.    

You turned on your engine with the car starter, turning back to Steve. You did, you really did like Steve as a friend. He was funny, gentlemanly, and definitely not hard on the eyes. Yet, for some reason, you felt like you there was something off. It wasn't like you hadn't been in contact with humans before while keeping your secret. You couldn't understand.   

"Thanks for coming out with me tonight," Steve said, almost too politely, and it made you chuckle.   

"It was lovely," you replied, watching as Steve's eyes crinkled at the corners from smiling. You sighed wistfully. Stepping forward, you put your hand gently on Steve's cheek, tippy-toeing to kiss him softly on his cheek. His face immediately flushed red, traveling all the way up to the tips of his ears.   

"Goodnight, Steve, see you later." With that, you got into your car, driving off.   

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"Thanks again," you said as you handed the money to the babysitter. The young lady waved it off and left. Allison was thankfully already put to the bed by the sitter, and you quietly checked on the young girl to make sure everything was fine. Once you were satisfied, you shut the door and made your way to the basement.    

Down there, there was a fridge that had an electronic passcode lock on it. Once unlocked, you grabbed a bag filled with blood in it out. You used your teeth to tear the corner and tipped the bag into your mouth. After the long swig, you lowered the bag, sighing as you sat down and leaned against the freezer.

Suddenly, there was vibrating in your pocket, and you pulled the phone out, answering it without even looking.   

"Hey, David."   

"How'd the hangout go?" He immediately asked, a slightly disapproving tone in his voice. You didn't even dignify it with an answer. Instead, you took another mouthful of the blood bag.   

"Do you have enough supply over there, David? If not, I'll send another shipment over from the hospital to you."    

David makes a noncommittal sound, indicating he's fine, so you move on. "Any updates then? Not like you to call me to check on my personal life."   

David snorts, "Only when I think it'll put you at risk. But, you're right. I do have something."   

You sat up, readjusting yourself to sit straighter. You quickly finished your bag of blood, wiping your lips slightly.

"Got two things for you. First, I've got some intel that HYDRA has an escapee. They call him The Winter Soldier, a man with a metal arm," David says as you switch the phone to your other ear.   

"Where was he last seen?"   

"Europe, but it looks like he's heading towards America."    

You hum. You had heard about HYDRA over the years, it was another organization that you needed to keep an eye on, lest you wanted to be caught by them. You never had to deal with them directly as to when they became a problem, Captain America came to be and 'handled' it.    

Maybe that was the problem. It was difficult to be friends with Steve, knowing you couldn't talk to him about anything when you had more in common than just the average person. Was it guilt that was stopping you?   

"Keep me updated on that situation. Let me know if you catch sight of him," you said, getting up to throw out the empty bag before making your way to your private bar to pour yourself a drink.   

"Already surveilling. Second thing...I think I've found the descendants of Tatyana."   

Your grip slipped slightly, spilling the liqueur out of your glass slightly.   

"What?" You breathe out shakily.   

"They're in Sokovia. I'm waiting for a little more intel to come in."   

"Send me everything you have, and the second you get more," you breathe steadily, wiping the spilled liqueur and resumed your pouring.   

With nothing left, David hangs up.    

Tatyana...   

Flashes of silk and a peal of feminine laughter passed through you. You quickly shut it out and downed your drink.   

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"Everyone clear on what their duties are?"   

With a collective yes, Fury had ended the meeting. The aftermath of the invasion was still affecting many people. Tony had set up a foundation for families who were directly affected by the invasion and donated millions. Bruce had a side research assignment for SHIELD while helping with the cleanup when he could. Thor had left immediately with Loki, and they were unsure when he would return. Steve was doing a lot of interviews and press reviews to help the Avengers look better in the public's eye. As Nat and Clint were spies, they needed to keep unknown to the public, so Nat went back to being Pepper's PA, and Clint, well Clint left.   

Steve was already leaving, thinking about heading over to the Café to see you. He didn't have anything scheduled until tomorrow, and he had a feeling after that, he would be tied up for a while. As he was walking down the hall, Natasha came up next to him and fell in step.   

"Where are you heading to?" She asks casually.

"Just out."

"To the place you've been mysteriously disappearing to every day for the last two weeks?"   

Steve looked surprised. "Not every day..."   

He looked around to make sure no one else is there. A part of him was still wary about Natasha, but he was resolved to place his faith in her and trusted her, and she trusted him.    

"I met a girl at a café two weeks ago, you know, when Bruce recommended me that book?" He says as he turned his attention back to her.   

"Dating?" She says as if almost impressed by it.

Steve shook his head. "No, she doesn't know I'm Captain America. We're just friends."

"Because she doesn't see you like that?" Natasha asked.   

Steve rubbed the back of his head.

"Both of us don't see each other like that."   

Natasha raised an eyebrow, looking unimpressed, but Steve waved it off. "It's fine. I'm not looking to date anyways."   

She looked like she wanted to say more, but before Natasha could ask anything else, an intern interrupts them, saying she needed Steve.   

Natasha stopped walking, clicked her tongue as she tapped her foot and looked at Steve walking off with the intern.    

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Steve wasn't able to visit You for a few days due to all the PR he had to do, but now that he was back, he planned and seeing you right away. The moment he entered, he noticed a familiar redhead sitting with you.   

There Natasha was, sitting at a table with you, drink in her hand as they chatted away. He furrowed his brows and frowned as he walked over to them, grabbing their attention.

Natasha smirked at him, and he gave her a look. You called out to him, and he nodded his head at you but turned to Natasha.   

"What are you doing here?"   

You looked surprised as you looked between the two of them. "Oh, you know Miss Rushman here?"   

"Natalie," Natasha corrected. Steve gave her another look that she shrugged off.   

"We're acquaintances," she explains easily, keeping Steve's secret. You hum a small 'o,' and it's silent again. It seems almost tense for a second before Natasha gets up, stating she's got to go back to work.   

"It was great meeting you, Natalie. Come by again for life-changing coffee," You bid her goodbye, getting a brief smile from the redhead.    

Once Natasha is gone, you turn back to Steve, "Your acquaintance is nice."   

Steve only laughed awkwardly.   

He had his peaceful hour with you before leaving. When he got back to the tower, he found that it was only him, Tony, and Bruce in the building.   

It wasn't until late evening that Natasha returned.   

"What the hell was that today?" Steve immediately asked, catching Natasha in the common area kitchen while no one else was around. It looked like Natasha had freshly showered and changed, coming in to get a late-night snack.   

Natasha sighed as she faced Steve and uncrossed her arms. "Look, I'm sorry, Steve, but I just want to make sure she's safe for you, okay?"   

Steve's face softened, and he was pacified by Natasha's underlying words that she cared about him, and this came from a place of concern.    

"So," he says after a moment. "What did you think?"   

He watched as Natasha shifted, hesitating to tell him what she honestly thought, but with the look on his face, she knew better than to lie to him about it.   

"There's something off about her," Natasha finally says, shifting her weight onto one foot and crossing her arms.    

"Off about her?" Steve questions with a raise of his eyebrow. "Like...secretly..."

He had heard of Tony talking about his own past experiences before he had met Pepper. Something about aborting if it's a stage 5 clinger.   

"No," Natasha replied, rolling her eyes slightly.    

"I mean, she's hiding something."   

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There was a degree of surprise for you when Black Widow had shown up at your café. Though, you supposed it was bound to happen with Steve showing up as often as he was. You just expected it to be another Avenger.    

When you heard about the Avengers Initiative starting up from David's intel, he had sent you files on the candidates. Natasha Romanoff's file, as expected, had nearly nothing in it. You got her birth name, occupation, and a really shoddy photo from a street camera.   

This was going to be a problem, you thought. David really would want you to disappear if Black Widow was going to be involved. You would have to convince David that disappearing would be even more suspicious and warrant the spy to look more deeply into you if you left without a trace. You just needed to be normal because even if she tried to look you up, nothing out of the ordinary would come up anyway.   

You put on a friendly face as Natasha came up to the counter. "Hello, how what can I get you today?"   

"Just looking for a little pick me up, but not something that will have my hands shaking." Her voice was husky, and you licked your lips.   

"Sounds like a long day," you said, starting to make the drink. You had a lot of customers who came through asking for something different like it was a bar, but you didn't mind.     

There was a delicate but husky chuckle in return, "And it's not even halfway through."    

"Name for the drink?"   

"Natalie."   

You hummed quietly, writing on the cup in a cursive font.    

There wasn't much more chatting after that as you focused on making the drink. Natasha noticed right away walking in that you were beautiful, there were no physical imperfections about you. Even the way your hair fell seemed to fall perfectly in place. It was hard to place your age, but there was something youthful about you. Natasha had also noticed the strip of flour on your cheek.   

"Guessing hectic day for yourself?" Natasha said, breaking the silence. She watched as your brows furrowed with your lip slightly jutted out in a pout as you looked at the redhead.    

When Natasha pointed to her own cheek to mirror where it would be on you, and you quickly swiped the area with your gloved fingertip and then checked with a small laugh.   

"Oh, yeah. My one and only employee has called in sick today. I'm starting to think I should hire another one."   

Natasha tilted her head, "Oh, you own this place?"   

"Sure do! I'm Elaine. Nice little shindig I got here, right?" You grinned, and Natasha smirked in return.   

"I'll reserve my thoughts until I try the drink."   

You lightly laughed, putting the finished drink in front of the redhead. "Fair enough, and not to toot my own horn, but this drink is going to give you a happiness you'll never be able to achieve anywhere else. If that's the case, this tip jar could use some friends."   

Natasha gave a friendly snort, not replying as she took a sip and immediately moaned involuntarily.   

"Oh shit, is there crack in this?"   

You let out a burst of full laughter, the kind that reminded Natasha of a warm day in a meadow—whatever that means.   

"No crack, unfortunately, but it will get you through the day without your heart going 100 miles a minute."   

Natasha smiled slightly, pulling out a Benjamin and throwing it in the tip jar, clearly overpaying for the drink, but you didn't say anything and grinned.

The redhead looked around, finding a lot of shelves with books on them on the other side of the café.   

"Bookstore as well? Busy, busy, I see."   

You hummed, "Sort of. I don't really make people buy books here. There's a college nearby, and I have a lot of students come here. I get a lot of textbooks and then let students rent them out. They put a security deposit on the book, which is 100% refundable provided the book isn't damaged."   

"Quite the lucrative business you've got going on," Natasha said, mildly impressed, and you shrugged.   

"Well, I'm not too sure what an accounting major would do with an Intro to Anthropology textbook if they had to keep it, so I guess everyone wins in this situation."   

Somehow after that, they had moved over to the table to continue talking, most of it being light banter.   

Still, Natasha found you odd. As a master conversationalist, she recognized that you had the same skill, which meant that while you were incredibly talkative, there was nothing personal about their conversations. There was no asking where Natalie worked, or what she was doing around this neighborhood since she wasn't a regular. She could see this was not your goal to pry for information.

There was the thing with the gloves as well, but Natasha did not ask, and you did not explain even if you found Natasha staring.    

After she left when Steve showed up, Natasha looked back at the café on the corner of the street.   

She had to admit, she did not mind you; she was curious if anything. She could see why Steve would like hanging around you, but you did not give any vibes that indicated to Natasha that you cared all that much.    

Still, Steve liked you, and Steve was family.   

And she would always protect her family.

PART III

[wiypt-writes]

Stark Spangled Banner

Ch16: Till The End Of The Line

Summary: The launch is growing ever nearer and in a desperate attempt to stop it before it is too late, the renegade group are intercepted by the Winter Soldier. When he is unmasked, Steve finds himself face to face with someone he presumed dead a LONG time ago, his childhood friend, Bucky Barnes. Only Bucky has no idea who he is…

Pairing: Steve Rogers x OFC Katie Stark

Warnings: Violence, bad language words, and some angst.

A/N: Another wonderful edit from @angrybirdcr​

Disclaimer: This is a pure work of fiction and classified as 18+. Please respect this and do not read if you are underage. I do not own any characters in this series bar Katie Stark and the other OCs. By reading beyond this point you understand and accept the terms of this disclaimer.

Chapter 15

Stark Spangled Banner Masterlist // Main Masterlist

 “HYDRA doesn’t like leaks,” Sitwell continued to talk and try to plead his case as they drove down the freeway, heading back towards the Triskellion.

“So why don’t you try sticking a cork in it,” Sam finally snapped.

“Insight’s launching in sixteen hours, we’re cutting it a little bit close here.” Nat stuck her head between the two front seats from where she was sat in the middle of the back row.

“We can use him to bypass the DNA scans.” Steve informed her, clearly having already thought it through. “That way we can access the Helicarriers directly.” "What?! Are you crazy?! That is a terrible, terrible idea-” Sitwell began to protest but was cut off, his screams dying as he was pulled out of the car and thrown into oncoming traffic just as a sixteen-wheeler was going past. Katie let out a scream at the same time as Sam yelled out a loud curse, as a bullet ripped into the seat inches from Katie’s leg.

“Move!” Natasha yelled at Steve as she clambered through the middle of the two seat and onto his lap pulling him down away from the next bullet which was meant for him. As they all looked up, heavy footsteps pounding on the roof, in a bout of quick thinking, Steve pulled on the handbrake and the person on the roof dropped down onto the street.  All four of them in the car watched as he rolled and rolled and used his metal arm to slow his momentum before standing up. He was tall, well built, long dark hair whipping around his masked face.

“It’s him.” Natasha’s voice was nothing but a whisper. “The Winter Soldier.”

Katie aimed her gun through the windscreen, taking aim, when they were violently hit from behind causing Katie’s usual dead shot to ricochet off the side of the man’s arm instead of his head. The car behind pushed them closer and closer to him until he was able to leap back onto the roof as Nat searched for her gun and Katie aimed hers upwards. Suddenly, a metal hand smashed through the windshield and pulled out the steering wheel from Sam’s hand.

“Shit!” Sam yelled.  Natasha, after having found her gun, started shooting through the room but the Winter Soldier jumped onto the jeep behind their car that had started erratically pushing theirs along the road.

“Katie…!” Steve yelled, gesturing for her to climb into the front. “Hang on!”

She scrambled over the central gap between the front seats as Steve broke open the door with his shield pushed up against it, holding onto them all as best he could as the car began to flip. They dropped from the car onto the door as well as the shield and slid roughly along the street. Sam lost his grip and slipped away but luckily he only tumbled a few metres away mostly unharmed.

The three of them that remained hanging onto the shield quickly stood once they had come to a complete stop, the jeep that had caused the crash stopping as well, men all fully armed climbing out and one of them handing the Winter Soldier a grenade launcher, which he immediately used. Steve pushed Katie and Natasha out of the way and took the full force of the grenade with his shield which sent him flying over the bridge, just as the Winter Soldier reloaded and began firing at the rest of them.

They quickly dove for cover behind a car and together moved along the bridge, car by car, Natasha and Katie shooting back at the soldiers with their hand guns. Katie tossed one of her spare pistols to Sam who caught it, and started firing as well. This was working at keeping the advancing HYDRA operatives at bay reasonably well, until they were forced to the edge of the bridge and the Winter Soldier shot another grenade at them.

There was nothing for it, they had to jump. Nat had her anchor so she leapt off, grabbing Katie’s hand as she shot up at the concrete of the bridge. They landed a bit heavier than normal, Katie rolling a few feet over the concrete but she was soon back on her feet and running behind Natasha under the bridge.  Nat skidded to a halt as they reached the other end, the shadow of the Winter Soldier visible on the ground in front of them. They shared a quick glance and with a nod they split up, Katie veering left, Natasha veering right.

With a deep breath, Katie stepped out from the shelter of the bridge, took aim and shot her gun up at the Soldier and she saw his head jerk back, and then he removed his glasses. She had hit where she had aimed but it hadn’t done as much damage as she had hoped. Ducking back under the bridge she carried on running and at this point she could hear machine gun fireand paused as she turned to see the fire trained onto a bus. Steve emerged from the end of it, rolling and picking up his shield and adding to the fray, Sam was firing at hostiles as well from his vantage point above.

“Go, I got this…”He yelled and Steve set off running once more.

Katie turned and looked across the way, the Winter Soldier was stalking between abandoned vehicles, presumably looking for them. She shadowed him, remaining a good distance away, as he rolled something under a car. Next thing she knew, there was an explosion and Nat had vaulted onto his back, attempting to tackle him that way. Katie sprinted towards her, and then slid across the floor, kicking at the back of his knee, making him stumble slightly but nothing more. She jumped up just as he flipped Natasha over onto her back and aimed a shot at him causing him to leap off somewhere to his right. Katie spun round, her gun aimed ready, looking for him but he was nowhere to be seen.

She started to sprint over towards Natasha, yelling at the screaming members of the public to get out of the way as she went, when she felt a searing pain in her shoulder. She gave a scream, stumbled, and dropped to her knees putting a hand to the wound. She backed up against a car, breathing hard looking around again when a thump from behind her had her turning to see that the Winter Soldier had hopped onto the hood of the car behind the one she was leaning on, gun aimed straight at her head.

Steve had heard that scream and he spun round to see Katie was pressed up against a car, her hand on her left shoulder, her eyes fearful. As he turned to sprint towards her, the Winter Soldier hopped up onto the car behind, taking aim with his gun. In desperation, Steve launched his shield with a loud grunt and it knocked the metal armed man off the car. With practiced ease the assassin landed on his feet and made to shoot again but Steve was right there, on him, launching a knee to his chest. The Winter Soldier stumbled slightly, before he cocked his head to one side, threw his gun away and advanced on Steve. The two began to fight, furiously, Steve blocking the swipes the assassin took at him with a dagger, slamming him into cars with his shield. 

Toe to toe they went, the fight was furious. Each landing blows which would under normal circumstances dispatch an opponent with ease, but here, they were equally matched. The man was just as strong as Steve and The Captain realised that whoever he was, he had to be enhanced.

As the fight was raging between the two men, Natasha reached Katie’s side and dropped to her knees, ripping off her jacket and covered Katie’s wound with it in an attempt to stem the blood flow. "Alright, c'mon.” She coaxed, wrapping her arm over her shoulders. “Get up.”

She helped Katie to her feet, and the injured woman looked back in time to see the Winter Soldier launch himself at Steve. Steve managed to grab him under his chin, propelling him straight over the top of him in a huge arc, causing his mask to clatter to the ground right before the dark haired man landed gracefully on his feet. Steve stood up, waiting to see the face of the man who was causing them so much goddamned trouble, but when the guy turned round, he felt his heart stop.

Katie frowned as she saw Steve stood stock still, staring at the now unmasked Winter Soldier who looked oddly familiar. It took her a moment, but then she realised, he was familiar because she’d seen him before. His hair was longer, and he looked a little more ragged round the edges, but it was him.

Steve took a deep breath, his heart stopping as he looked into the man’s grey eyes.

“Bucky?” He gasped, frowning.

“Who the hell’s Bucky?” The man said. Steve paused, it sounded like him. It looked like him. It was him, but in the same way it wasn’t. 

What had Hydra done? 

Bucky seemed to be thinking about something, before he shook his head slightly and aimed at Steve with his last remaining gun, but before he could shoot, Sam swooped down, his wings once again attached to his back, and kicked him away but he didn’t stay down for long.

Katie looked around, and noticed that there was an RPG on the floor, she nodded towards it and Natasha picked it up, and aimed a well fired grenade over Steve’s head, forcing him to duck. It exploded where the Winter Soldier had stood, bringing the fight to an end.

Steve turned and looked as Katie stumbled and slumped against the van, struggling to stay on her feet. It was then that black MPVs and jeeps surrounded them, and the former STRIKE teams piled out.

“Drop the Shield, Captain! Get down on your knees! Get on your knees! Now! Get down! Get down!” Rumlow shouted out the orders. Steve did as he was told and placed his shield on the ground while holding his hands up defensively, not once taking his eyes off Katie, as she screamed in pain as a hand sharply grabbed her shoulder, pressing down on the injury. She was hauled forwards, stumbling, her hands roughly snapped in cuffs in front of her.

Steve started to struggle but a gun was pressed into the back of his head causing him to stop. He didn’t listen to what they were saying, he was too busy trying to make sure Katie was okay, and then there was Bucky. As he stood up and was shoved forward, he was directed towards an SUV, followed by Nat and Sam. He turned to see Katie fall as she was shoved forwards before being wrenched roughly back to her feet by Rumlow who grabbed her hair harshly, forcing her head back. He grinned as he leant down, his mouth inches from her ear.

“Of all the times I dreamed of getting you in handcuffs…” He laughed,  loud enough for Steve to hear. The soldier let out a growl in his throat as Katie bared her teeth at Rumlow.

“Fuck you.” She spat.

“Maybe I will, not like you can do anything about it, not now.”

“I warned you what would happen if you touched my girl again.” Steve snarled as with a huge wrench he snapped the cuffs that were pinning his arms behind his back and kicked out at the soldier that was stood at the side of the SUV. He advanced towards Rumlow, who almost lazily pulled a pistol from his belt and held the barrel against Katie’s head.

“One more move Rogers and I’ll blow her pretty little head off.”

Steve stopped dead, swallowing, his eyes blazing as he looked at Katie, her face was contorted in pain from the shot in her shoulder. She fixed her eyes on his, gave a slight shake of her head, and Steve took a deep breath and looked back at Rumlow. 

“In the van.”  Rumlow instructed. 

And Steve knew he had no choice. With a last look at his girl he turned, bowing his head slightly, swallowing down the feelings of fear and inadequacy that were washing over him. Once inside, a pair of masked agents shoved him down, one giving him a harsh dig to his stomach, knocking the wind out of him as they clamped his feet in strong shackles to the side of the van, locking his hands together in equally strong restraints in his lap.

Rumlow just laughed and threw Katie into the SUV, unceremoniously. She staggered to a seat as the doors swung shut behind them and the van started up, beginning to move only moments later.

Steve’s heart was in his mouth as he saw the extent to which his girl was hurt, the left side of her denim jacket was soaked with blood. She lay her head back against the seat and took a deep breath letting out a moan.

“Baby.” Steve spoke, making sure his voice was calm “Come on, talk to me, sweetheart.”

“You know,” she opened one eye. “I’m going to get one of my childhood friends shoot you, see how you like it.”

Steve took a deep breath, glad she was still able to make jokes, but also comforted by the fact she’d recognised Bucky too, and he wasn’t going totally crazy.

“Childhood friend?” Sam frowned. “You mean that dude, Robocop? You know him?”

“Bucky.” Katie whispered, looking at Sam “Steve’s Riley…”

“He was my best friend. One of the Commandos during the War.” Steve took a deep breath, looking at his feet.

 “What?”  Natasha questioned. “I mean, are you sure?”

“It was him.” Steve assured her. “And he looked right at me like he didn’t even know me.”

“How is that even possible?” Sam asked in disbelief. “That was like, seventy years ago.”

“Zola,” Steve immediately answered. “Bucky’s unit was captured back in Forty-Three’. Zola experimented on him. Whatever he did helped Bucky survive the fall. They must have found him and…”

“None of that’s your fault, Steve,” Katie sighed gently as she grit her teeth through the pain in her shoulder. She was starting to feel a little light headed.

“Even when I had nothing, I had Bucky.” Steve swallowed, before he heard Katie taking a deep breath through her nose, and suddenly, he was jerked back to the here and now. His girl needed help.

“We need a doctor here!”  Sam’s voice sounded out, beating him to it as she once again rest her head back against the seat, her eyes fluttering shut.

“I think I need to sleep.” She muttered, softly and Steve instantly leaned forward, speaking in his Captain’s voice in a hope it would jerk her out of it.

“Stay awake. Eyes on me, Doll”

“If we don’t put pressure on that wound, she’s gonna bleed out here in the truck…” Sam cut off and Steve turned to see why, watching with an open mouth when he saw the guard on the left whip out an electric rod, before flipping it and electrocuting the other guard before kicking and knocking them unconscious.

"That thing was squeezing my brain.” Maria Hill complained as she pried the helmet off.

“Nice of you to show up.” Katie groaned, “I only called you like what, twelve hours ago.”

“Who’s this guy?” Hill asked, ignoring Katie and nodding to Sam.

"Sam Wilson.” Steve quickly introduced him, happy to see a friendly face. “Sam this is Maria. She’s on our side.” He added and Sam nods accepting Steve’s word as Hill took out a set of keys and began to unlock their restraints.

Steve was by Katie’s side as soon as he was free. Taking the keys off Maria he undid her cuffs and as soon as they were off, she moved, crying out in pain.

“It’s okay.” Steve soothed her, as the truck stopped. “We’ll get you fixed up, Honey, I promise.”

“We gotta’ get moving, Cap.” Hill shuffled to the middle of the van. “Stand back”

What the device was, Steve had no idea, but he didn’t care. It blazed through the SUV floor with ease and he turned to see Katie had now passed out. Giving a groan of frustration, he gently picked her up, and Maria dropped herself out of the SUV, then Natasha, then Sam who Steve passed his girl to gently. Once they were free they dodged down an alley and into another waiting SUV. Sam gently placed Katie on one of the seats, Hill passing Steve a spare jacket so that he could place it over the wound, applying pressure.

“We need to lay her flat.” Sam instructed, as the SUV sped forward. “It’ll help stop the flow.”

With Sam’s, help Natasha managed to manoeuvre Katie so she was lay with her head on Steve’s lap. She murmured something and with his spare hand he gently carded his fingers through her hair, leaning down to press a kiss to her temple.

“We’re not far out Cap.” Maria looked at him “Bout twenty mins or so. I’ll call ahead to medical, make sure they’re prepped”

He nodded and leaned back, lost in his thoughts. Bucky, Katie, Bucky, Katie… like a mantra it kept repeating in his head. Sam and Natasha were busy asking Maria questions, and he vaguely caught her answers-there was a secret SHIELD base outside town, no HYDRA didn’t know, yes she was sure, yes she knew about insight and yes it needed to be stopped.

After what felt like the longest twenty minutes of Steve’s life, they drew up to a stop outside what looked like a huge dam of sorts built into the side of a hill, and Steve stood, easily picking Katie up into his arms, following Maria’s direction. They entered the large concrete doors into a brightly lit corridor and Maria shouted to someone who was running towards them dressed in a white coat.

“GSW. She’s lost at least a pint!”

“Maybe two,” Sam added.

At that, Steve felt Katie stir in his arms and he glanced down to see her blinking, her eyes screwed against the light.

 “Where…” She grimaced slightly at the pain both in her head and her shoulder. Fuck, she had no idea where she was or what had happened, other than she had clearly passed out.

“We’re safe.” Steve pressed his lips to her forehead, relieved to hear her voice even if she did sound like she was in agony. 

“Let me take her.” The doctor ran forward, gesturing with his hands.

“No,” Steve shook his head firmly, his grip on Katie tightening slightly. “Show me where to put her.”

“They’ll want to see him first” Maria looked at the doctor who nodded and gestured for Steve to follow him.

“Who?” Katie asked, blinking.

No one answered and they were led to a room at the back of the facility where Hill pushed aside the plastic divider to where a very much alive Nick Fury was sat up in a bed.

Steve felt his mouth drop open as Fury remarked. “About damn time.”

The doctor came in behind them and gestured for Steve to place Katie into a seat so he could start working on her wound. He did so gently, his hand sliding into her hair once more as he placed a kiss onto the crown of her head, not moving far from her, his hand gently resting on her good shoulder.

“I’m sorry, but this is gonna sting a bit Miss Stark.” The doctor apologised in advance, and she nodded, hissing as he injected the local anaesthetic into the wound, and her spare hand reached up to grip Steve’s.

“You okay?” He crouched down beside her and she turned to look at him.

“Marvellous.” She sassed. “This is the best day of my life.” 

Steve chuckled, as long as she was being snarky she was okay. “You’ll be fine, won’t she doc?”

The doctor nodded. “I know it doesn’t feel like it but this is quite superficial.” He held up the bullet he had removed. “It hasn’t gone in too deep. You’ve just lost a fair bit of blood but I’m not too concerned about you, unlike him”

He gestured at Fury and Katie turned to look at him as Steve stood up doing the same.

“Lacerated spinal column, cracked sternum, shattered collarbone, perforated liver, and one hell of a headache.” Fury spoke.

“Don’t forget your collapsed lung,” The Doctor added.

“Let’s not forget that.” Fury chuckled. “Otherwise, I’m good.”

“They cut you open,” Natasha spoke to Fury. Her voice not accusing but hurt, “Your heart stopped.”

“Tetrodotoxin B. Slows the pulse to one beat a minute. Banner developed it for stress. Didn’t work so great for him, but we found a use for it.”

“Okay, you’re done.” The doctor gently gave Katie’s good shoulder a squeeze as he stood. Steve turned back to see Katie was now plugged up to a bag of blood. “Bit of rest and I’ll check your levels later.”

“Thanks…” She nodded, turning back to Fury.

“Any attempt on the Director’s life had to look successful.” Hill informed as Steve eyed her, remembering how defeated she had looked at the hospital when they announced Fury’s ‘death’. Either she hadn’t known at the time, or she was a damn good actor.

“Can’t kill you if you’re already dead. Besides, I wasn’t sure who to trust.” The Director admitted.

*******

“This man declined the Nobel Peace Prize. He said peace wasn’t an achievement, it was a responsibility,” Fury scoffed while throwing a picture of Alexander Pierce to the middle of the table they were all sat round once they had all finished telling each other what had happened at the various stages of the day. “See, its stuff like this that gives me trust issues.”

“We have to stop the launch,” declared Steve.

“I don’t think the Council’s accepting my calls anymore.” Fury added with a huff of a laugh, even though there was nothing funny about the situation at all.

“So what do we do?” Katie cut in.“How do we stop it?”

Hill glanced at Fury before she leaned forward in her seat to grab the case which had been sitting on the table. She clicked the locks, opened up the top and spun it round to show them what was inside- three equally sized data chips.

“Once the helicarriers reach three thousand feet, they’ll triangulate with Insight satellites, becoming fully weaponized,” Agent Hill explained, opening up a laptop. She turned it around to allow them to see a simulated concept video of what she was saying. “We need to breach those carriers and replace their targeting blades with our own. One or two won’t cut it. We need to link all three carriers for this to work, because if even one of those ships remains operational, a whole lot of people are gonna die.”

“We have to assume everyone aboard those carriers is HYDRA. We have to get past them, insert these server blades. And maybe, just maybe we can salvage what’s left-” Fury started but he was cut off by Steve who harshly interrupted.

“We’re not salvaging anything.” He shook his head slowly, and he meant it. “We’re not just taking down the carriers, Nick. We’re taking down SHIELD”

“SHIELD had nothing to do with this.” Fury tried to defend his organization but there was a derisive snort which cut him short. Everyone turned in the direction from which it had been issued.

“Sorry, did I do that out loud?” Katie sat up slightly.

“You gave me this mission.” Steve turned back to Fury, shaking his head “This is how it ends. SHIELD’s been compromised. You said so yourself. HYDRA grew right under your nose and nobody noticed.“

"Why do you think we’re meeting in this cave? I noticed,” Fury waved around him as if it was somehow enough.

“How many paid the price before you did?” Steve snapped, voice still hard, as his mind turned to Bucky. 

“Look, I didn’t know about Barnes.” Fury sighed sitting back in his seat.

“Even if you had, would you have told me? Or would you have compartmentalised that, too?” Steve’s tone was icy. He knew the director hadn’t been involved in whatever HYDRA had done but he couldn’t help but feel angry. He took a deep breath and when he spoke again his voice was softer but still as stern “SHIELD, Hydra…” He shook his head gently, “it all goes.”

“He’s right,” Hill finally spoke, sadness tinged her voice.

Director Fury looked at every single person in the room. He made specific eye contact with Katie who raised her eyebrows, defiantly. Natasha didn’t react at all, which in itself was enough. Then finally he looked to Sam, clearly curious as to what he thought about the whole thing.

“Don’t look at me. I do what he does, just slower,” Sam vouched. Steve couldn’t help but smirk slightly.

“Well…” Fury leaned back and let out a sigh as he looked Steve in the eye. “It looks like you’re giving the orders now, Captain.”

Whilst Steve was glad, he took no pleasure in what they were about to do. SHIELD along with Katie had been his anchor after waking up and bringing the security agency to its knees made him quite sad, especially after Peggy, Howard and Chester had been its founders. Nevertheless, it was the right thing to do, and for the next few hours formed the bones of a plan, in which each person had a different role to play.

“We’re going to have to come up with another way to disable the encryption.” Nat looked at Fury as he took a sip from a bottle of water. “Pierce will have erased all of your clearance from the Triskelion system”

“Not all of it.” Hill gave a wry smile

“What do you mean?” Katie frowned, taking the chocolate bar Steve handed to her with a smile. The Doctor was happy with her blood levels but told her to keep her sugar and energy levels high, so Steve was ensuring she ate enough by consistently passing her snacks from the pile that Hill had dumped in the middle of the table.

Fury looked at her, then to Hill, before he reached up and flipped up his eyepatch revealing his badly scarred right eye.

“I build safety switches into most things these days.” He said dryly. “There’s a scan of this eye hidden on an old inactive database one from the Nineties.”

“So if we can access that database remotely and reactivate it, then bingo.” Katie grinned, swallowing her bite of the Snickers she was chewing.

“We don’t have the capacity to do that, not from here.” Natasha sighed.

“Yes we do.”  Katie looked at her as she shifted and pulled her StarkPhone from where she’d hidden it down her bra right before they’d been captured.

Steve arched an eyebrow at her, and she merely shrugged as he smiled at her resourcefulness before drawing himself up to full height.

“We only have…“ He checked the clock on the wall. "Six hours until the launch.” Steve nodded at the people who were watching him from their spots at the table. “Everyone, I suggest we get to it.”

There was a flurry of movement accompanied with the scraping of chairs as people pushed themselves away from the table, ready to put their wheels of the plan into motion.

****

“Hey JARVIS…” Katie said as she accessed the AI on one of the laptops

“Miss Stark…” JARVIS greeted.

“I got another favour to ask. I need access to one of SHIELD’s old databases from 1995.”

“Dare I ask why?” 

“Dare say you can, but don’t expect me to answer”

“It might take me a little while.”

“Fast as you can J.” Katie replied simply. “We’re up against it here.”

“Are you sure you don’t want me to contact Mr Stark?” 

“No, I don’t”

It took thirty minutes. Thanking JARVIS, Katie started to scroll through the database to get the name she wanted. She quickly scanned the information. Fury had hidden an alternative retina scan under the name Carol Danvers. She had no idea if that was a significant name to him or just something random, but she didn’t really care. Once she located the name, she let out a low whistle and smiled before she hit a few more buttons as Fury had instructed her and bingo, it was once more live. Her job done, she took a deep breath before standing up, closing the laptop and heading off to find Steve.

The soldier was outside, desperate for some fresh air, lost in his thoughts. To learn that Bucky had survived the fall made him feel sick, because he hadn’t gone back for him. He’d left him to the clutches of HYDRA, who had brainwashed him into becoming their assassin. He ran his hand over his tired face and leaned against the railing, watching as the first tendrils of daylight broke over the horizon.

As always he was aware of her presence before she spoke, so he wasn’t surprised when Katie asked if he was okay, and turned to face her, letting out a sight.

 “Not really.” He replied, always honest to a fault where she was involved.

“You know, this is the right thing to do.” She slid between him and the barricade of the bridge so that her lower back was pressed against the rails.

“I know.” Both his hands dropped to her hips, his eyes scanning to the injury to her shoulder. “Sweetheart, I really wish you’d sit this one out”

“I can’t sit it out Steve. You know that. This is personal for me too. Besides,” she gave a small smile as she shrugged. “You need me. You need us all.”

He understood. And there was no point trying to make her stay behind, she was probably the only person on the planet that could rival him for stubbornness, well apart from maybe her brother that is. And she was right, he did need her.

“He’s going to be there.” She watched him carefully.

“I know.”

“Whoever he used to be, the guy he is now, I don’t think he’s the kind you can save, Steve. He’s the kind we need to stop.”

“I have to try” Steve looked at her, pleading with her to understand. “I can’t just give up on him.”

She did understand, she understood perfectly well, and could only imagine what he was feeling at seeing his best friend, the man he had known all through his childhood, manipulated in such a way.

“We can never give up on those we care about, we can only try our best.” She reached up to gently brush her hand against his cheek. “Just…remember that he’s not the same person he was seventy years ago.“

He raised his eyebrows up slightly. "Neither am I.” He responded matter of factly. She held eye contact with him for a moment, but she knew there was no point in trying to convince him otherwise; Bucky was his best friend. He loved him and wasn’t about to let HYDRA take him away again.

“I know.” She gave him a small smile,  just before he pressed his lips to hers. She kissed him back, eagerly, the kiss grew deeper and his hands crept from her hips up to her hair, pulling her closer as he pressed against her, trapping her completely against the barrier.

Eventually, reluctantly, he pulled away laying his forehead against hers 

“I love you.”

“I love you too.” She pecked his lips again before Steve pulled back and looked over her shoulder at the rising sun. Reluctantly, he took a slight step back.

“Tell the rest of ‘em to suit up, it’s time.”

In the meantime, he had his own suit to get. One which he’d been wearing the last time he took those fuckers down. And he was hoping, albeit probably in vain, that if he did encounter the Winter Soldier, it would jolt Buck’s memory about who he was.

“You gonna wear that?” She asked, gesturing to his chinos and jacket, her eyebrow raised.

Steve looked at her with a smirk. “If you’re gonna’ win a war, you’ve gotta wear a uniform.” He dropped a kiss to her head and took off at a run.

Katie smiled as she watched him knowing exactly where he was going.

*****

“Comms on six.” Hill informed as Steve, Sam and Katie jumped down from the SUV on the side of the Potomac to the Triskelion, not far from where the control operations were. Katie was holding the case that contained her suit in her right hand. She’d confessed to Sam that she’d only flown in it a few times, but Sam wasn’t too concerned and neither was Steve. Sam had promised to fly with her in tandem, and Steve trusted the man completely despite only having known him a number of days.

“Rogers, Hill.” Fury spoke in their ears “I’ll open our lines up as soon as it is safe to do so.” He paused. “Good luck.” They silently and quickly made their way down the side of the Potomac. The first task was to disrupt the coms and security surrounding the Launch Bunker so that no one would know they were arriving. A simple EMP did that.

And then, just as Steve was about to kick the door in to the main room, it opened.

The techy on the other side simply stared as he was confronted with the four of them. His eyes flickered first to Steve, then to the Katie and Mara who had their guns trained on him.

"Excuse us.”  Steve shot the tech a pointed look. He immediately held his hands up and stepped aside to let them enter with a nervous, slightly scared look on his face.

They stepped inside, looking around at the remaining eight or so people in the bunker, all of whom immediately raised their hands.

“You got exactly ten seconds to get the hell outta here.” Sam looked around. They didn’t need telling twice, several of them tripping over in their scramble to the door.

“Bit dramatic don’t you think?” Katie teased, as Sam shrugged, a grin spreading across his face as she dropped her case to the floor. Steve gently pushed past her towards the desk.

“Which one is it?” Steve was looking for the coms button which would project his voice around the Triskellion. Maria pointed to one of the buttons and mics on the desk in front of her, where she was sat, tapping at the computer.

Steve looked at Katie and licked his lips, somewhat nervously. He had given speeches before, but none like this.

“If there’s anyone that can make people understand it’s you.” Katie encouraged, and he nodded, taking a deep breath, before pushing the button, his voice suddenly amplifying as it filled every speaker in the building.

“Attention, all SHIELD agents. This is Steve Rogers. You’ve heard a lot about me over the last few days, some of you were even ordered to hunt me down. But I think it’s time you know the truth. SHIELD is not what we thought it was, it’s been taken over by Hydra. Alexander Pierce is their leader. The STRIKE and Insight crew are Hydra as well. I don’t know how many more, but I know they’re in the building. They could be standing right next to you. They almost have what they want: absolute control. They shot Nick Fury and it won’t end there.” he took a pause before he continued “If you launch those Helicarriers today, Hydra will be able to kill anyone that stands in their way, unless we stop them. I know I’m asking a lot, but the price of freedom is high, it always has been, and it’s a price I’m willing to pay. And if I’m the only one, then so be it. But I’m willing to bet I’m not,”

He finished and took a deep breath as Katie smiled at him and Sam looked up.

“Did you write that down first, or was it off the top of your head?” He quipped.

Steve looked at him, trying to keep his face straight, before he turned to Maria who smiled, nodding at the screen.

“Alright, I’m in.” She reached into the briefcase and handed each of them one of the new targeting chips. “Get in, switch them over, get out.”

They all nodded and Katie bent over, pressing her fingers onto the security pad on the case containing her suit. As it sprang open she stepped forward, the metal pieces connecting and flowing over her body, the dark navy and silver suit forming around her before the face plate slid down.

“That’s the coolest thing I’ve ever seen.” Sam muttered, and Steve smiled. He’d only seen her in it once before when she had been running a test flight. Katie turned to Sam and although he couldn’t see her face, Steve knew from her tone she was grinning.

“You aint seen nothing yet, Sammy.”

The three of them made their way around the banks of the river towards the triskelion, Sam and Steve running, Katie flying behind them at a low height. Suddenly, feeling the vibrations under his feet, Steve skidded to a halt, Sam doing the same. Katie landed behind them, and looked down.

“What’s that?” She frowned as the floor vibrated below them. ”JARVIS, gimme a scan.”

“Below the Potomac river is a hangar.” JARVIS said, his voice sounding in Steve’s ear too.  “And it looks like the doors are activated.” No sooner had he finished than Maria’s voice came over the coms “They’re initiating the launch”

“Clearly your speech rattled them enough to bring it forward.” Katie muttered as the three of them headed to where the ground was opening.

“Hey Cap, how do we know the good guys from the bad guys?” Sam questioned as he ran.

"If they’re shooting at you they’re bad.” Steve answered a little flippantly. With a roll of his eyes,  Sam extended his wings and flew off after the highest Hellicarrier, while Steve jumped down onto the launching bay beginning to fight, Katie flying behind him, doing her best to clear out as many agents as she could

“Hey, Cap, I found those bad guys you were talking about,” Sam suddenly reported.

“You alright?” Katie asked.

“Not dead yet,” Sam answered

Together Katie and Steve fought their way across the bay, Katie clearing as much of a path for Steve as possible, before she spiralled through the air and up towards the one she had been designated. Dodging fire easily as she went thanks to JARVIS’ evasion techniques, she landed with a clang on the deck.

“I’m in.” She spoke, before a barrage of bullets ricocheted off her back. She turned, cocked her head to one side before she smirked.

“Nice try.” She smirked, firing up her palm pads and sending a huge beam their way, before shooting upwards once more towards the central control column.

“Falcon, status?” Maria demanded.

“Engaging.” Sam reported, before a moment later “Alright, I’m in…oh,shit!” he cursed.

"Eight minutes,” Maria warned

“Working on it.” Steve’s reply was punctuated by a grunt.

When Katie’s carrier was clear, which didn’t take too long as there were nowhere near as many agents on this than there seemed to have been on the other, she landed by the control panel and stepped out of her suit, chip in hand. Punching in the code Maria had given them, she swapped out the targeting disk and grinned as he pushed everything back into place.

“Alpha locked,” She reported, stepping back into her suit.

“Falcon, where are you now?” Maria asked anxiously.

“I had to take a detour!” Sam’s voice was loud. Katie took off, bursting through one of the glass windows of the Alpha carrier to see Sam spiralling through the air, being shot at by HYDRA missiles. She surged forward, shooting randomly, turning their attention to her as she twirled down towards the glass dome surrounding the next helicarrier before at the last moment pulling into a vertical climb upwards, meaning the beams hit the glass creating an entrance for Sam.

“Oh, honey you fly better than me!” Sam happily exclaimed and Katie chuckled as he dropped into the hole. A moment or two later he spoke again “Bravo locked,” and he shot back out into the bright sky.

“Alright, that’s two down. How’s it coming, Cap?” Maria questioned

“Still working on it!” Steve repeated. And he was. He had no idea how he managed to end up on the damned carrier with the most agents on it but they just kept coming and coming, like a never ending swarm of ants. He kicked out, taking another one down with a huge roundhouse kick and felt a bite of frustration as Hill urged him on.

“Better step it up Cap.” She said, then there was the sound of two gun shots before she spoke again “6 minutes”

It was then that Steve realised he was blocked in. Agents behind him and a Quinjet was aiming at him from ahead. He had no alternative but to dive off the edge of the hellicarrier.

“Hey, Sam, Sweetheart…I’m gonna need a ride,” Steve spoke easily as he fell through the air.

“Roger! Let me know when you’re ready!” Sam answered easily.

“I just did!” His voice remarkably calm for a man who was currently freefalling at a fast pace. Suddenly his arms were tugging upwards, and he was deposited back on the tarmac, Katie and Sam landing besides him.

“You know, you’re a lot heavier than you look.” Sam grunted and Katie laughed, firing at an agent that was to her left.

“Yeah, well, I had a big breakfast.” Steve responded cheekily.

Sam was about to respond when suddenly a blur of black and silver flew out from behind a crate and tackled Steve off the edge of the helicarrier.

“Steve!” Katie yelled, immediately launching to go after him but something grabbed at her foot, crunching down.

“I’m okay!” he informed her, as she kicked out wildly at whatever it was that was currently wrecking her boot.

“Right thruster is compromised.” JARVIS informed her, as the pressure was suddenly released and she looped in the air, trying to gain her balance with only one functioning boot. As she spun to look at her assailant she caught a glimpse of a metal arm grabbing at Sam’s wings, throwing him backwards.

Sam managed to stop his backwards momentum and started to shoot at him in response. Katie joined in with her repulsors and one of the weapon guns from her shoulder, the two of them forcing the Winter Solider to retreat.

“Steve?” She yelled into her comms, flying off the side unsteadily with the one boot working “JARVIS run scan!” “Captain Rogers is there by the port side” 

To her relief she saw his heat signature pulling himself up at the side of the carrier. She turned, expecting to see Sam behind her but instead she saw the Winter Soldier charging forward and kicking him off the Helicarrier. Sam began to plummet, one of his wings not working so Katie dove after him, grabbed his arm and managed to land the pair of them, albeit rather un gracefully, on the roof of the Triskelion.

“Thanks” He mumbled dusting himself down off as Katie retracted her face plate

“Steve, are you okay?”

“I’m alright. I’m still on the helicarrier.” Steve responded. “Where are you?”

“Triskellion roof.” She spoke.

“I’m grounded, the suit’s down. Sorry, Cap.” Sam sighed.

“Katie?”

“One of my thrusters is out.” She sighed, “I’m running on half capacity, but I can get up to you if I need to.”

“It’s okay, I’ve got it. I’ll call if I need you.”

“Half capacity?” Sam looked at her.

“Have to channel double the power to the non-fucked boot!” She shrugged, standing on one leg to show him the now mangled piece of metal. “That or I fall. Problem is it means that the power to everything else gets compromised.” “Huh.” “Tony’s working on it.” She muttered as they looked up at the three hellicarriers, her eyes falling on the one Steve was currently on. “He’s gonna come face to face with him…”

“Maybe he can make him remember who he was.” “You don’t believe that any more than I do.”  Katie observed, glancing at the Sam. He shrugged.

“Falcon, Nova…” Hill called through the comms.

“Yeah?” Katie paused, talking as she still remained with her eyes locked on Sam’s.

“Rumlow’s headed for the council.”

“I’m on it.” Sam responded, unzipping his vest and nodding to Katie. “You stay here, he might need you.”

Katie nodded, glancing back up at the sky before she wheeled round.

“Sam?” She called after him. He turned to her, jogging backward “Give Rumlow a kick in the balls for me, really hard.” Sam saluted, grinning, before he turned on his heels.

Katie’s attention turned once more to the ship above them, and after a while she realised that it had been really quiet on Steve’s end.

“Steve?”  But there was no reply, nothing but static.

“I can’t reach him.” Hill sighed. “And Charlie is still not locked. We’re running out of time.“

"I’m on it.” Katie responded, taking off in the direction of the carrier.

“40% power.“ JARVIS instructed.

“Thanks J, can you run a heat scan, locate Captain Rogers.”

“Located… he is in the central area, near the control room…” JARVIS showed her the thermal image of two men going toe to toe, her stomach sinking. She surged forwards and flew through the glass of the control room just as Steve and the Winter Soldier fell over the edge of the platform they were fighting on.

They both landed hard but the Winter Soldier got up first, standing over Steve, metal arm gearing up to deliver another blow, but as he went to connect with Steve’s face, Katie blasted at him, landing in between him and Steve, sending him sprawling backwards.

“Katie…” Steve scrambled to his feet.

“Get to the control panel.” She yelled as the Winter Soldier came charging back at her “We don’t have much time!” As the metal armed assassin lunged at her she shot upwards, flipping in the air and sailing behind him, firing at his back. He flew forward but jumped immediately to his feet and spun, firing his gun at her, the bullets bouncing off her suit. They continued this twisted dance until she got a little too close, and his metal arm gripped tight around her left gauntlet, the squeal of metal on metal rang out as he began to crush down with his fingers.

“JARVIS… full power!” Katie yelled. “But Miss Stark…”

“Do it!” She fired the suped-up repulsor beams and the blast caused the winter soldier to fall hard backwards. As she wound up for another shot, she had just sent it his way only to see him pick up Steve’s shield using it to block her ray. It rebounded it straight at her, hitting the suit square in the chest and sending her straight through the glass windows of the carrier into the sky.

It took her a while to right herself, but eventually she flew back inside just as the solider stabbed Steve in the shoulder. Steve yelled, and head butted the man three times, which forced him to let go. As Steve turned to pull the knife from his shoulder Bucky made a grab for the targeting chip and Katie fired at him again, knocking him into one of the metal beams at the back of the carrier, his head making a horrible noise as it connected before he fell face down. Steve wasted no chance in grabbing the discarded chip and heading up to the control panel as she stood between him and the Winter Soldier.

“Systems are seriously compromised…” JARVIS told her. “If you continue using your repulsors the way you are, I fear you won’t have enough power to make it down…” “We’ll worry about that later J.” Katie mumbled, looked up as she watched Steve

“One minute.” Maria Hill spoke and she had barely finished when Katie heard the sound of a gunshot. She turned to see The Winter Soldier getting to his feet looking dazed but his metal arm held his gun aimed up at the control panel where Steve was still climbing. Before she could stop him, he shot again and Steve let out a yell, gripping at his thigh.

“Thirty seconds!” Maria said urgently.

As the assassin position himself and steadied his gun to take aim again, Katie flew forward, knocking into him just as he fired. He on his back as Katie stood over him, one foot on his chest, in a last ditch attempt to buy Steve a bit more time. He grabbed at the leg of her suit, pulling it from under her and she crashed to the floor, the man’s metal armed rained blow after blow down on her suit, the glass eye holes cracking.

“Suit integrity is at 50% and falling.” JARVIS urged and she did the only thing she could do. She fired her thruster causing her to shoot out from under his hold, colliding with a steel piece of the structure which send her ricocheting once more out of the side of the hellicarrier.

“Charlie locked.” She heard Steve’s strained voice as she continued to fall through the air, struggling to fire her boot back up again.

“Okay, get out of there.” Maria spoke as Katie continued to plummet, JARVIS also speaking to her saying he was trying to stabilise her tumbling.

“Fire now.” Steve demanded.

“NO!” Katie yelled as her boot suddenly kicked to life about twelve feet above the Potomac. She could hear Maria trying to argue too. But Steve wasn’t having any of it.

“Do it now.” Steve yelled.

Maria’s sigh was heavy on the coms link but she did as she was told pushing the button that started the helicarriers firing at one another. The ships began to tear each other apart and as more shots hit the one that they were on the inside began to break apart.

“Steve… STEVE!” Katie yelled hovering unsteadily, only being able to use the one thruster. She instructed JARVIS to channel more power into it to keep her upright and then Sam’s frantic voice sounded in her ear.

“Please tell me there’s someone in the air!” 

“Sam! Where are you?” Nat’s voice sounded and Katie took a deep breath.

“Forty first floor!” He yelled as he got closer to the window. “Northwest corner!”

“Stay where you are!” Nat instructed as Katie shot up to find him, her boot stuttering as she went.

“Not an option!”

Her scanners picked him up and Katie spotted the helicopter Fury was flying a few floors below where it was supposed to be. She flew as fast as she could to grab Sam as he jumped out of the window of the collapsing building, catching him and tossing him into the helicopter flying in herself.

“Forty first floor!” Sam yelled as Katie retracted her helmet. “Forty first!”

“It’s not like they put the floor numbers on the outside of the building!” Fury yelled back.

“Hill, where’s Steve?” Natasha asked. “You got a location on Rogers?”

“He was on Charlie…” Katie swallowed. “The one that hit the building…”

*****

On the carrier Steve had tried to make Bucky remember, just one final time. It didn’t work. The man with Bucky’s face tackled him to the floor and he landed on his back against a fallen bar, head dangling off the edge. He was anchored by the assassin’s legs around his waist and the tight hold he had of his uniform with his flesh hand. The man looked at him, hatred etched in every line on his face and it broke Steve’s heart. What had HYDRA done to him to make him this way? They had turned his friend, his brother, against him and there was nothing he could do but try and remind him of his life before.

Then came the blows from the metal arm, raining down on his face.

With every punch that landed, along with the agony, memories flashed across Steve’s line of sight – some of them to do with Bucky, bailing him out of a fight in an alley behind a movie theatre. Punch. A Thanksgiving with the Barnes family. Punch. Games of cards in the army camp. Punch. But the ones that came more vividly were of his girl. The way her face scrunched up when she laughed. Punch. The dress she wore on their first date. Punch. The way they lay tangled up with one another after making love, her hand threading through his hair. Punch. The way she looked at him when she thought he wasn’t paying attention - like he was the best thing that ever happened to her.

He loved her. He loved her so much it hurt.

“You’re my mission!” Bucky screamed out. Steve’s vision was blurry, his face was throbbing in pain; he was beaten, he knew that. But if this was it, the last moment he had, then he wanted Bucky to know how much he meant to him.

“Then finish it.” Steve gasped out, pausing in an effort to get his breath back. “Cause I’m with you, till the end of the line.”

He could’ve sworn he saw something in the man’s face shift. His eyes became wider, like he was panicking at the phrase. The metal fist was raised up high, but didn’t move from its position. Bucky’s chest rose and fell rapidly as his eyes softened, just slightly, and the metal arm lowered out of the wind-up. But before he could do anything else, a massive piece of steel from the helicarrier broke off. It crashed against the beam that Steve was up against. And then he was falling, as Bucky managed to hang on to the beam with his metal arm, a sick, twisted reversal of the incident seventy years ago when Steve had watched as Bucky fell into the snowy canyon below.

Steve plunged into the icy water of the Potomac, the light gradually growing darker, and darker as he sank further into the depth. It was a peaceful way to die, he supposed, after the brutality of the fight. And as his vision went, the last thing he saw was his girl’s face and the fact he was leaving her behind broke him just that little bit more.

I love you. Doll, I love you.

*****

Katie engaged her helmet again and took off from the helicopter, flying alongside it for a short while as it circled the outside of the hellicarrier.

“JARVIS, you got anything?” She asked, making her way shakily forward, but as she spoke her scanners locked onto Steve, where he was lay on the floor of the carrier, the Winter Soldier raining blows upon blows down at him, and he wasn’t fighting back.

“What have we got left in the tank?” She asked desperately.

“25% power.”

“Put everything we have into my thrusters.”

“Miss Stark…”

“Just do it, J!” She yelled.

She felt the power surge as she shot upwards but as she went, her scanners trained on them both, Steve was hit by something falling from above and was sent crashing down through the floor of the carrier and then her repulsors cut out and once more she was falling.

“Emergency back-up power…” JARVIS spoke as her suit fired up again, giving her just enough time to level out before she went head first into the Potomac. She weaved her way through the falling debris under the surface avoiding it before she shot upwards again, but there was no sign of Steve or the Winter Soldier.

“Miss Stark you need to land. I can only sustain you for another sixty seconds.”

“Yeah I know.” Her voice cracked slightly “But I have to find Steve.” In desperation she circled around the river, “Any sign?” She asked into the coms.

“Nothing.” Hill sighed. “The suit he has on doesn’t have a tracker!”

“Come on.” Katie mumbled, hovering in mid-air, her suit stuttering slightly. “JARVIS hit the scans again.”

“Running…”  He muttered and she watched before the display locked onto him. He was quarter of a mile or so out from the Triskellion…and the Winter Soldier was pulling him out of the water onto the river bank.

With her last bit of remaining power she flew to them, landing behind the Winter Soldier. He immediately spun round but this time Katie saw fear in his eyes. They weren’t steely or dead like they had been before, instead they sparkled with emotion. For that reason she took a deep breath and stepped out of her suit, hands held up in a conciliatory manner.

“Bucky.” She spoke gently, glancing behind him to where Steve lay motionless on the bank. She bit back the panic in her throat at the site of him hurt and unconscious before she focussed on the man in front of her.

“Who are you?” Bucky’s voice was deep and he looked at her, but he wasn’t attacking. Taking a shaky breath Katie took one step forward and he instantly grew defensive so she stopped, shaking her head.

“It’s okay, my name’s Katie. I’m Steve’s girlfriend. You know Steve, right?”

His chest heaved, his eyes widened and for a split second she thought he was going to come towards her. Instead he stood to the side letting her get a full view of her man before nodding towards her.

“Get help.” He spoke gruffly before turning and running.

“I’ve got him.” Katie spoke into her coms as she scrambled over to Steve, stumbling as she ran. “South West bank, clearing in the trees. Look for the flare.”

At that she shouted to JARVIS. “Supernova Protocol…” before she dropped to her knees next to Steve, hearing her suit shoot upwards before it exploded with a bang. Her heart stopped for a second as she looked down at her man, letting out a sob as she noticed his chest was rising and falling slowly, the only sign he was alive. His face was badly beaten, his right eye almost completely closed. There was the knife wound on his shoulder, several deep cuts to his face, but it was the gunshot wound to the middle of his abdomen that worried her most. It was bleeding heavily. She pressed one hand to the wound to stem, her other stroking his battered face…

*****

Steve realised he wasn’t dead. He felt like it, god the pain, but there was a familiar voice, a familiar touch, one heavy on his abdomen, the other stroking his sore, battered face.

“Shh…its’ okay”

It was her. He tried to speak but she shushed him.

“Baby I’m here.”

“Katie…” He opened his eyes, looking at her. Those beautiful green eyes looked back at him and he realised then, he wasn’t ready to go. He didn’t want to go, not when she was still here. The thought of leaving her behind, when they had so much to look forward to, a future together, made him start to panic. “I…”

“Shhhhh.” Katie soothed him, her hand gently brushing his sodden hair back off his face. “Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere.”

He believed her.

Man he was so tired, and the pain.

And then his eyes shut.

******

Katie sat back, her hand still pressed to the wound and she glanced across the Potomac. Pieces of the helicarriers were still falling, splashing into the river, the groans and grinding of metal cut through the air as she sat still.

She had no idea how long she waited, it can’t have actually been that long, but it felt like ages as she simply sat, her hand clamped over Steve’s abdomen, listening to the sirens ringing loud through the air as emergency responders got closer.

In an odd way, it was all proof they had won. But at what cost? 

Then, she heard footsteps behind her and instantly wheeled to see Fury stood barking orders to four men following him with a stretcher, but she couldn’t really hear him. She stood up, moved back, in somewhat of a daze, to allow the medics access to Steve, but once he was loaded onto the gurney she moved back to his side, taking his hand.

They emerged from the bank and another medic made to drop a blanket round her, but she shrugged him off, her hand still round Steve’s until she had to let go as they loaded him into the ambulance which was parked in the clearing near the chopper.

“He’s gonna be fine.” Sam noddedd as he appeared besides her, dropping an arm round her shoulders as she watched them anchor the stretcher in place. The paramedic inside the ambulance gestured to her, and she climbed in without so much as a glance back.

**** Chapter 17

**Original Posting**

[bella-spil]

The Game

You and the rest of the Avengers play Cards Against Humanity.

Female reader.

Warnings: TONS of adult topics, TONS of cursing, a little bit of fluff (Don't read if you don't like adult topics)

Word count: 6.2k (sry that this is a longer one!)

A/N: sorry this took so long.  I had it saved as a draft, but then my account logged out and I had to retype the whole thing.  I hope you like it!!!!

@wednesday-add-em​ @angrythingstarlight​  if you wanna be tagged lmk.

"What game would that be, Parker?" Nat asked, suspicious.

"You'll find out if you chose to play," Peter declared.

As everyone else in the room started to wonder what "game" Peter was referring to, you Bucky and Sam were grinning at each other, knowing exactly what's gonna happen.  You start daydreaming all the possibilities that might happen, from funny scenarios in the cards to people arguing about who won.  They all seem great, but you knew it would be better once everyone would start playing. 

"Actually," Wanda announced, getting up from her seat.  "I'm pretty tired from the mission and the jet lag.  I'm gonna call it a night." 

"I am quite exhausted as well,"  Vision said, pushing his seat in. "I need a rest as well.  Goodnight everyone." 

"Congrats Y/N and Bucky!" Wanda shouted before she left the room, with Visions hand in hers.

"Wait, how can the android be tired?" Clint asked.  Then everyone in the room knew what the two avengers were going to be doing tonight. 

"WE KNOW YOU TWO ARE GOING TO FUCK TONIGHT!!!" Tony screamed at them.  Wanda heard Tony and flipped him off, still walking to her room with Vision.  Everyone at the table was laughing from Tonys antics, but you knew everyone might lose their voices by the end of tonight.

"So,"  Peter interrupted the laughing.  "Is anyone else going to leave to fuck?" 

All the avengers look at one another, seeing if anyone else would dare to get up from the table.  Nobody made a move, except for Steve who just squirmed in his seat, knowing he wasnt going to leave for fucking.  He wasn't the best in moments where there was something inappropriate involved, but he had a feeling that's what tonight would be full of.  So he decided to man up and stand his ground.  

"I dont think Im gonna fuck anybody tonight, unless Nat says so,"  Sam acknowledged.  Nat rolled her eyes at him and kicked him underneath the table.  Sam shifted in his seat, tears building up like a bomb about to explode.  Nat smiled to herself, not letting anyone get suspicious of her in any way.

"Lets go kid,"  Tony said.

"Alright then," Peter smiled.  "Everyone, follow me." 

Everyone followed Peter and got up from the table.  As they were following Peter, some of the avengers were whispering to one another.  They had no clue about what was happening, which made everything more exciting.  As they made their way to the living room, the game was already set up by Peter.  The cards were arranged neatly onto the coffee table into piles with little tags on top of them so everyone knew what they were for.  You patted Peter on the back to show how thankful you were for him.  

He smiled back at you and whispered, "You owe me for this."  

Then you glared at him and lit your hand on fire and shoved it in Peter's face.

"No, I don't think I do," you replied, smugly.  Peter gulped and inches away from you, not wanting to have his ass kicked before the game even started.  As you and Peter were bickering, the others behind you, except for Bucky, realized what the game was.  You could hear sighs of realization behind you and internally grinned.  You knew keeping them guessing would pay off in the long run.

"Oh, so we are playing this game?" Tony chuckled.

"Now I know why you and Parker were acting weird." Nat said, smiling at you.

"Told you you'd find out." you said. 

"Ok are we playing in teams or going rogue?" Clint asked.  

"In teams," Peter answered.  "Me and y/n already came up with teams of two and team names." 

"Oh god,"  Clint and Nat sigh while Tony is rolling his eyes.  Sam snickers, thinking team names are for little kids but Steve is looking at the cards, not knowing what they are.

"Wait, guys.  What is this game?" Steve questioned.  Everyone rolls their eyes at him and sighs.  Steve was very outdated, and even though he has been in modern times for about a decade now, he still had a ton of catching up to do.           

"What?"  Steve groaned.  "Ive been frozen for 70 years.  Give me a break!" 

"Steve, you're not the only one that's a bit outdated.  You have had a few more years to catch up then I have and I still know what this is."  Bucky protested, earning a snicker from everyone else on the team while Steve rolled his eyes and lightly punched Bucky in the arm.

"Mr. Rogers,"  F.R.I.D.A.Y. chimed in.  "Do you know the game Apples to Apples?" 

"Yeah why?"  Steve asked the A.I.

"Well, Cards Against Humanity is basically that game.  The only difference is that Cards Against Humanity is for a more mature audience." 

"That's a good way of putting it,"  Tony mocked. 

"Ok thank you F.R.I.D.A.Y.,"  Steve said.  "I'm all good now." 

"C'mon guys what are the teams?" Clint asked, getting impatient.

"I hope I'm with Nat."  Sam whispered, glancing at Nat once again.  Sam winked at her, but she punched him in the arm.  Nat liked using physical violence, but only went necessary, or if someone was annoying her, like Sam.  Everyone chuckled, but then they drew their attention back to Peter, who was waiting to announce the teams.

"Ok, first is me and Mr. Stark."  Peter announced.  "We are the Student and Master." 

"Kid, if we lose, I will take your suit away for a week."  Tony declared as he high fived Peter.  Peter gulped and took a seat with Tony around the table.  Everyone else was standing up, waiting to hear their name be called.

"Then, we have Steve and Nat, the Spys." you said.  Steve and Nat smiled at each other and sat down in front of Tony and Peter.  Sam, however, was not impressed and his mouth was to the floor.

"Are you kidding me? Sam shrieked.  "You put Star Spangled Banner with Nat?"

"The teams were already made," you shrugged.  "If you wanted to be with her so badly, you should have made a request." 

"I hate you,"  Sam retorted.  "I hope i'm not with the Wiener Soldier over there." 

"Shut it Pigeon,"  Bucky snapped.  You rolled your eyes at the two of them, who were still throwing looks at each other like they were elementary school kids that got into an argument.  

"Then me and Bucky are together,"  you said, taking a seat with the Winter Soldier on the right of Steve and Nat.  Everyone made kissy noises and ooed at the two of you as you sat down.

"Wait you forgot the team name!" Clint remembered.  You sighed before saying the embarrassing name.

"I didn't come up with the names, Peter did,"  you said, singling Peter out.  "We are the Lovebirds."  After you said the team name, everyone continued their antics of making kissing noises and everything else.

"Guess we are together, Clint," Sam realized, since Clint and himself were the last two people standing up.  They took their seats on the left of Steve and Nat, making themselves directly across from you and Bucky.  It seemed as if they did it on purpose, but you didn't care about that.  You were waiting for their reaction to their team name.

"Y/N, what's their team name?" Nat asked.  You and Bucky looked at each other, giggling like 5 year olds.  

"Peter, would you like to do the honors?" you asked.

Peter sighed, knowing this would end up good, but continued anyway.  "The Birdbrains."   Everyone started howling in laughter.  Sam and Clint looked at each other, then back at Peter, ready to pounce on him like lions.

"I'M GONNA KILL YOU, YOU LITTLE PIECE OF SHIT!!!!"  Sam shouted, running after Peter with Clint following suit.  Due to his Spidey Sense, Peter was able to dodge the two of them and ran out of the room, followed by an angry Sam and Clint.  Steve and Tony ran after them, trying to get the Birdbrains to come to their senses.  You and Nat rolled your eyes at each other while Bucky was sitting there chucking.

"Ugh, men," Nat sighed.  

You giggled as the five men took their seats.  Sam was still annoyed, smoke coming out of his ears.  Clint seemed ok, he looked like he enjoyed running after Peter.  Peter was laughing, not trying to be rude, but he was trying to control himself.

"Im gonna kill you," Sam said.

"Sure Birdbrain," Peter smirks.

As everyone gets the laughter out of their systems before the game starts, each team picks seven white cards from the pile.  Each team read their cards, giggling at some of them and having to hold in a cackle for others. 

"Ok who is going to be the judges first?" Steve asked.

"I mean Y/N and Bucky," Nat responded as if it was obvious.  "It's only fair that they go first." 

"Ok then," you said, grabbing the first black card of the night.  You grabbed the card and read it, and then you started laughing and showed it to Bucky.  He laughed as well and the both of you were able to regain your senses to read the card.

"Bucky you wanna read it?" you ask, still smiling.

"Sure," Bucky replied.  He cleared his throat before going on to read the card.  "Fun tip!  When your man asks you to go down on him, try surprising him with ______." 

Everyone started to laugh again.  But then, everyone's mode shifted from having fun to competition mode.  Everyone in the Avengers hated losing anything and tonight was no exception.  Each team was in deep discussion with their partners, deciding which card was the best to win the round.  After a couple of minutes, each team put their cards in the middle for you and Bucky to read.

"Ok," Bucky cleared his throat again.  "Fun tip!  When your man asks you to go down on him, try surprising him with..." He stopped to read the first white card.  "Drowning kids in the bathtub!  Holy shit!"  Everyone started laughing, including you.  That card was very dark, and very funny.

"When your man asks you to go down on him, try surprising him with… an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours."   Everyone lightly chuckled at this one, it wasn't as funny as the first card.     

"Lastly, when your man asks you to go down on him, try surprising him with… explaining how viaginas work.  Ok this one works for Steve 100%!"  Everyone laughed and agreed with Bucky.  Steve was smiling, not laughing.  He was trying to not show how true that was but it wasn't working out that well for him.

Then you and Bucky turned to one another and discussed who won this round.  You whispered for about less than a minute, since there was an obvious winner.  Then you and Bucky turned around to the three teams and announced your decision.  

"Drowning kids in the bathtub wins!" you declare.  Then Peter and Tony cheer and high five each other.

"We did it!" Peter cheered.

"Got ya, suckers!" Tony bragged.  

"Wait, how many black cards do you need to win?" Clint asked.  You looked at Peter, who shrugged.  It was a very good question, and you needed a minute to think about it.

"How about the first team with 10 black cards wins?"  you ask.  Everyone nodded and the game resumed.

"Ok, Peter, Tony, you judge." Bucky said.

Tony reached up to grab the card.  As he read it, he kept snickering.  When he finished, he showed Peter the card as he leaned into Peter's shoulder for support.  Peter was chuckling as well and leaned on Tony's head.  As far as you knew, Tony was very tough with Peter, but now, seeing them all cuddled up together laughing, it proved y9ou very wrong.  It took you by surprise, but you loved how cute they were together.  Tony was the father figure in Peter's life that he needed, and he was that figure for you as well.

"You wanna read it, Peter?" Tony asked.

"Sure," Peter said.  "When I was tripping on acid, ______ turned into ________."  Everyone chuckled at how ridiculous the card sounded and started to choose their cards for the round.

"Wait, how will you guys know which card goes first?" Steve asked.

"Put the first card on the top and the second one on the bottom." Peter replied.  Steve gave him a thumbs up and continued talking with Nat.  

As everyone was choosing their cards, you and Bucky were doing the exact same thing.  But in the middle of it, Bucky called you "doll."  Normally there's nothing wrong with this, it was something he called you since the two of you met.  But Sam was in the room.  And he heard it.  After Bucky said it, Sam started cackling like a witch.  He was rolled over on the floor, clutching to his stomach and tears covering his face.  Everyone else looked up and wondered what in the world was so funny, since none of them heard Bucky's nickname for you.  You didn't know why he was laughing, but Bucky knew the exact reason.  He wasn't going to say anything to draw attention to himself or you.  Instead he just gave a death stare at Sam, and nobody noticed.

"Partner, you good down there?" Clint asked, confused.  Sam was still laughing as he got up from the floor.

"Yeah," Sam coughed.  After he caught his breath, he saw Bucky glaring at him.  He waved at Bucky, like he had no clue what he did.  When your head was looking at the cards, he flipped Sam off and Sam stuck his tongue out and put his finger by his throat, signaling that Bucky would get it later.  Bucky rolled his eyes and returned his attention back to you and the game.

After a couple minutes, three cards were placed in the middle, ready to be read by the Student and Master.

"Everyone hush!!! Tony scolded, and everyone in the room immediately shut up.  "Thank you.  Kid, you may read the first card." 

"Thanks Mr. Stark," Peter said.  "When I was tripping on acid, Danny DeVito turned into pixelated bukkake!  Oh my god! What the FUCK?" Everyone was clutching on the remaining air that was left in their lungs.  All of the teams were laughing to the point where faces were turning purple.

"What does that mean?" Steve quietly asked, not wanting a lecture about how pure he was.  But everyone heard since the laughter was dying down, but it resumed once more after what Steve said.  It took another couple of minutes for everyone to control themselves again.  

"I'll explain later, Steve." Sam reassured.  Steve rolled his eyes and let Tony and Peter continue.

"Ok, when I was tripping on acid, blowing my boyfriend so hard he shits turned into incest." Peter continued.  He laughed at the end and everyone joined him.

"My turn, shut up!!" Tony barked.  "Ahem.  When I was tripping on acid, my sex life turned into..."  Tony never finished reading the card.  His eyes were glued to the last white card.  It was like he did not comprehend what was on the card. 

"Am I- am I reading this right?" he asked Peter.  Peter took a look at the card and he snorted.

"Yeah.. yeah." Peter snickered.  "You are reading that right, Mr. Stark." 

"Ok I just wanted to make sure i'm not getting too old." Tony said.  "When I was tripping on acid, my sex life turned into braiding three penises into a twizzler.  Alright, who the fuck thinks this is ok?" 

Everyone was cackling and laughing again.  Tony was ranting on about how obscene the card was and how that would never work in real life, which was making it harder to stop laughing.  Once Tony was finished complaining and asking F.R.I.D.A.Y. if the card was able to actually happen, the laugher subsided and Tony and Peter started deliberating.  They took longer than you and Bucky, which made it seem as if it was a close round.  Finally, Peter stood up and revealed the winning card.

"Before I announce the winning card, I have a question for Mr. Rogers." Peter announced.

"Sure, Peter.  Whats up?" Steve asked.

"Did you understand what the last card meant?" Peter asked.  Everyone chuckled lightly.  Not that it wasn't funny.  Everyone knew if they laughed too hard, they would have a hard time breathing.    

Steve rolled his eyes and sighed dramatically before answering the question.  "Yes.  I understood that reference." 

Bucky stood up and started applauding for Steve.  He was joined by you, Nat, Tony and the Birdbrains.  Steve stood up and took a bow, thanking everyone and waving like a celebrity.      

"Thank god you did," Nat sighed in relief.

"Finally, you get something!" Bucky rejoiced.

"This was a close one but the sex life one wins for sure!" Peter said.

Clint and Sam got up again and started to cheer, high fiving and chest bumping.  They even did some weird thing that was supposed to be a bird call, since they were the Birdbrains.  To you, it sounded like a cat dying in an alleyway from food poisoning.  Once they finished their bird call, the Birdbrains sat down and bragged about their first win of the night.

"Yeah yeah! Deal wit dat!" Sam yelled.

"Losers!" Clint cheered, making an "L" with his hand and putting it on his forehead.

"We will see who has the last laugh," Nat grunted.

"Birdbrains!" you chimed in.  

"Shut it Lovebirds!" Sam shouted back at the two of you.  He went to pick up the next black card.  Bucky looked around the room, not knowing why he was blamed and not Nat.  Nat smirked at Bucky and Bucky just rolled his eyes.  You giggled while Bucky stuck the middle finger back at Sam, for the like the 100th time tonight.

Sam and Clint read the card and started to laugh again, but it wasn't a big one, just a chuckle.

"Hehe.  Shut it Clint.  I gotta read the card!" Sam scolded.  Clint stopped laughing, but his face looked like it was about to explode any minute now as Sam started to read the card.

"White people like _____" Sam read.  Everyone giggled and went back to their groups to decide which card would be the best.  In a few minutes, each team was ready and placed their cards in the middle.  

"We got this one Steve." Nat said.

"Yeah, Nat.  Lets go!" Steve cheered as he high fived his partner.

"No, Spys," Tony sighed.  "We do because we are the best.  No questions needed to be asked.  Right kid?" 

"Yes sir!" Peter joined in.  The two of them fist bumped and made faces at the Spys and Lovebirds.

"Oh be quiet," Bucky sighed.  "Let the stupid Birdbrains read the fucking cards."  You smiled as Bucky held his arm around you a little tighter than before.  You knew Bucky wasn't the most patient person, and it seemed like the Birdbrains were taking as long as possible just to annoy your boyfriend.  You knew you would win in the end though.  And if you didn't, the Winter Soldier would kick their asses to their graves.

"Thank you.  Ahem," Sam cleared his throat.  "White people like jerking off into a pool of children's tears.  Holy fuck."  Everyone laughed at the card, just like all the others before it.          

"That's my kind of humor.  Continue Sam." Clint chuckled.  You knew Clint had a very different sense of humor than most of the people at the Compound.  You had become friends with him by understanding his jokes that nobody else understood.  Even Peter was able to understand some of Clint humor, which was a shocker to everyone.  Clint enjoyed having someone that understood him, even if it was for jokes about drowning kids.

"Next, white people like.." Sam never finished reading the card.  He shoved the card in Clints face and walked out of the room to get a breath of fresh air.  Clint looked at everyone to see if they knew why he walked out, but you and everyone else were just as lost.  Then Clint looked at the card and had an "aha"  moment.  

"White people like a falcon with a cap on its head." Clint finished.  Everyone knew the card wasn't funny.  But since Sam's superhero name was "Falcon," it seemed so funny.  Bucky was trying very hard not to laugh and so were Steve, Nat and Clint.  Peter was about to laugh, but Tony was able to cover Peter's mouth in time.  Tony raised his free hand to his mouth, making a "shush" motion.  You were sitting there, smirking to yourself since you knew it wasn't the right time to laugh.

Then Sam came back into the room after a couple of minutes.  He was clearly upset of something so stupid, which made it even harder not to laugh.  Sam was staring at you and Bucky, thinking it was the two of you since Bucky and him were friends, but not really.  Sam was eyeing everyone in the room like a hawk, trying to see if anyone had changed their facial expression or something else.  

"Sam, you wanna read the last card?" Clint asked.

"No," Sam stated, bluntly.  "You read it." 

"White people like three dicks at the same time." Clint finished with a light chuckle, and all the other teams followed suit.

"Ok, drowning kids in the bathtub wins." Clint decided, without having to deliberate.

"Agreed." Sam said.

Bucky picked you up in the air and spun you around.  He hugged you so tight, you had to tap him so you could breath.  As you and Bucky bask in your victory, Sam is still looking at the Student and Master and the Spies.  He was being a detective, looking for little details that might lead him to the culprits that put that card down.  

"Who put the fucking card down?" Sam asked.  All of the sudden, Tony and Peter start laughing out of control.  Sam knew those two were the criminals in his crime.  He took a deep breath, trying his best not to go over and take Peter down to the ground.

"Im gonna kill you." Sam growled.

"Save it Birdbrain," Nat told off.  "First team to ten.  Then you can kill them." 

"You bet yo ass I will," Sam grunted.

~~~

The rest of the night carried on in a flash.  The night was filled with laughter, smiles and cheers as each team won a round.  When you started playing, it was around 8:30 pm.  But now, it was 11:50 pm.  Everyone was definitely tired, as everyone started to yawn and get bags underneath their eyes.  

You and Bucky were doing very well together.  You guys won a ton of rounds and always celebrated with Bucky hugging you and spinning you around the room.  But you weren't tired.  The adrenaline from the game was serving as a source of energy, and it was the same source for all the other teams too. 

Peter and Tony were doing very well too.  They won a couple rounds as well and they always high fived when they won.  But whenever they lost, Tony threatened Peter, saying he would take away his suit and suspend him from being an Avenger.  And as the night progressed, you and everyone kept forgetting the score for your teams.  So Tony asked F.R.I.D.A.Y. to keep track of the score for the rest of the night.  And she did, very well.  

Sam and Clint were very competitive and sometimes it served in their favor.  They won a few like you and Bucky and Peter and Tony.  Clint was yawning by 9:50, he wasn't used to staying up late, but he was having fun nonetheless.  Sam, however, was full of energy, matching your level.  He grabbed tons and tons of candy, ice cream and other junk food as the night progressed, serving as a food and energy source for all of the teams.  Sam ate so much in fact that he got a sugar high at about 10:00 pm, but it wore off a few minutes later.   

Steve and Nat were doing good,but not as well and you and Bucky.  They won a few rounds, sure, but not as many as they would like.  Nat was pretty calm, but when Sam was "high" he was trying to be smooth and get Nat to go out with him.  She hit him repeatedly, and she smiled with gusto as she did, which made you laugh.  Steve to your surprise, was getting a little worked up.  He sighed in annoyance whenever they lost a round, and roared in happiness whenever they won.

~~~

"Ok, what's the score F.R.I.D.A.Y.?" Nat asked.

"The score for the Lovebirds is nine," F.R.I.D.A.Y. recited.  "The Spies have seven.  The Student and Master have nine as well.  And finally, the Birdbrains have nine.  Is that all Mrs. Romanoff?" 

"Your good, thanks F.R.I.D.A.Y." Nat thanked.    

"Ok since you guys have nine each, me and Nat will judge this last round." Steve said.  "This is it, the last one.  Winner takes all!"

As Steve finished his speech, Nat rolled her eyes and muttered something under her breath as she went to grab the final black card..  You knew Bucky had superb hearing, so you leaned to ask him what she said.

"Buck, what did she say?" you asked, quietly.

"She was just saying something about how Steve has a speech for every little thing." Bucky whispered.  You giggled under your breath.

As Nat read the card, she showed it to Steve, who started to giggle like a five year old.

"Steve, this isn't that funny," Nat groaned.

"Just read the card," Steve sighed as he regained control of his breathing.

"Ugh." Nat sighed.  "Kids, I don't need drugs to get high.  I'm high on _____."  Everyone chuckled at the card and turned to their partners for the last time.  

"Kid, this is it," Tony said.

"Yep," Peter said.

"We gotta go big or go home."  Tony said.  Then, Tony and Peter looked through the cards and finally, they had their eyes set on their winning card.

"This, my student, is gold," Tony remarked.  "No, no.  Scratch that.  It's the diamond in the rough."

"Do you know the movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory?" Peter asked.

"Yeah why?"

"Well, this card is like our golden ticket to victory Mr. Stark." Peter said.

"I don't want another pop culture reference out of you for the rest of the night.  You understand?" Tony scolded.  Peter gulped as Tony placed their card in the middle of the table.

"Clint?" Sam asked.

"Sam?" Clint asked.

"This is it." Sam said.

"This is it." Clint said.  "We gotta give 'em the money."

"Give em the money!" 

"We gotta win."

"We have to show those little shits who the fucking bosses are." Sam declared.

"Yes sir," Clint agreed.  As the Birdbrains were chanting, boosting their confidence, they interrupted Bucky's train of thought, and yours as well.    To you, they sounded like the football teams in the locker room.  When the coach is giving the team a pep talk during the halftime show in the Superbowl, boosting the teams confidence.  You were giggling to yourself as you heard them, and Bucky caught on.  As you looked back at him, you saw a glimmer in his heavenly, blue eyes, filled with mischief.  He had his signature smirk, his one for trouble on as well.

"Doll, watch this," he whispered.  He looked over at Sam and Clint, and you waited to see what he would do next.

"YEAH BIRDBRAINS! PREACH!!!" he shouted, clapping his hands and cheering them on, mocking them.

Sam and Clint immediately stop and glare at Bucky, who is smirking at them and batting his eyelashes at them, while you are cuddled up into his shoulder laughing at the Winter Soldiers antics.

"SHUT IT LOVEBIRDS!!!" Sam and Clint clap back. 

"Ok, before we were so RUDELY interrupted," Sam grunted.  

"Very RUDELY," Clint agreed.

"Do you agree that this one is the winner?" Sam asked.  Clint looked at the card that Sam was referring to and nodded his head.  Then Sam took the card and placed it in the middle.  You and Bucky were the team that everyone was waiting for.

"Ok doll," Bucky said.  "Don't worry.  We got this in the bag."

"Yeah we got this." you agreed, smiling at your boyfriend.

Bucky looked at the other teams and pointed at them while they were waiting for you guys.  "They don't know who they are dealing with.  They are messing with the fucking Lovebirds and they have made a BIG fucking mistake." 

"Yeah we got this.  Also.." you said slyly, biting your lip at Bucky, putting your hand in his hair and leaning into his ear so only he could hear.  "If we do win.. We can have some fun later, if you know what I mean."

When you pulled away, looking back at the cards, you looked at Bucky through the corner of your eyes.  His eyes bulged open and he looked at you, smirking and biting his bottom lip.

"Oh doll," he groaned, his voice deeper and as smooth as chocolate. 

"This card looks good right?" you asked, your tone completely changed from full of lust to innocence.  Bucky kept staring at you and smiled at you.  He always had a hard time believing he was dating you, but tonight, he realized he wanted you till the day he died.

"Yeah, you do." he blushed.  You giggled at him and gave him a peck on the cheek before you put your card into the middle.

"Ok everyone ready?" Steve asked, grabbing the cards from the table.  Everyone nodded, nerves were bouncing off the walls for all the teams.  

"First card." Steve announced.  "Kids, I don't need drugs to get high.  I'm high on..." He looked at the card and snickered, making sure his eyes weren't play tricks on him.  "I'm high on anal beads."  The room was roaring with laughter as Steve blushed after reading the card.  It took everyone about 10 minutes to calm down and let the Spies read the next card.

"That's method." Tony sighed.

"That's fucked up," Nat coughed.

"That's kinky as fuck!" Sam exclaimed.

"Next: Kids, I dont need drugs to get high," Nat read.  "I'm high on selling crack to children."  Nat's voice cracked with shock as she finished reading the card in horror.  Everyone cracked up even more.

"That's sick!" Clint said.

"Twisted!" Peter agreed.

"Ok whoever put that card down has the balls and I fucking live for it." you smiled, still laughing.

"What the hell?" Bucky sighed, putting his head in his metal hand, trying to process what Nat read.

"Then, last but not least, Nat will you do the honors?" Steve asked.

"It would be my honor," Nat grinned.  Before she started reading, she cleared her throat, overexagrating a little bit, which caused everyone to chuckle.  "Kids, I don't need drugs to get high.  I'm high on… what the fuck?" Nat looked at the card she had to read and started cackling like a witch.

"Nat, you ok over there?" you asked.

"Yeah Im fine." Nat chuckled.  "I'm high on a good sniff."  Everyone in the room was soon cackling like Nat.  And you sounded like witches.  You wondered how Wanda and Vision were "sleeping" with all the noise you guys were making.  After everyone calmed down, Steve wasn't out of breath like everyone else.

"Nat, that means what I think it means right?" Steve asked quietly.

"What do you think it means Steve?" Nat sighed.  Steve leaned into her ear and whispered what he thought it was.  You asked Bucky if he could hear what he said, but your boyfriend shook his head.  After Steve finished telling Nat, she nodded her head and rolled her eyes at her stupid partner.

"Yes Steve." Nat groaned.  "That's what 'a good sniff' means, you idiot."

"Thought you would have gotten that, pal," Bucky mocked.

"I did, I just wanted to make sure what I thought was correct." Steve stated.

"Steve, how do you not understand anything?" Bucky asked.

"Bucky, I thought you always fucked the girls on the first date in the forties.  Did you yet?" Steve asked, trying to come back at Bucky.  But it didn't really make sense because you were still a virgin.  Tony rolled his eyes in the corner and you sighed.

"Did you fuck a girl yet?" Bucky snapped.

"Steve, do we have a winner?" Nat interrupted, stopping the old men from bickering any longer.

"No, I have no clue," Steve answered.  "This was a close round.  Do you want to decide somewhere else, so they don't hear?  This might take a while."

"Yeah, lets go to the bathroom," Nat said.  "Take the cards with you."  Steve followed Nat, but Sam wasn't going to let Nat leave so quickly.

"Dont fuck him Nat!!!" Sam pleaded, shouting as loud as he could.  "He will lose his powers!"  Steve turned his back to face Sam, who was smiling back at him.  Steve rolled his eyes and followed Nat, and as he walked down the hall, he flipped Sam off.  Nat did as well.  

You, Peter and Tony were laughing your asses off, laughing at Steve and Nat as they were in the bathroom.  Clint was on his phone, texting his wife.  

Meanwhile, Sam and Bucky were making fun of Steve.  You heard them saying how much trouble Steve would be having if he was actually fucking Nat.  They were saying how Nat would be the dominant one and Steve would be like a ragdoll.  You were listening to Sam and Bucky more then Tony and Peter, since what Bucky and Sam were talking about interested you way more.

After about 10 minutes or so, Steve and Nat came out of the bathroom.  You, Sam and Bucky were eyeing them very closely, seeing if their hair was messed up, if their clothes were wrinkled, if they had hickeys, but there were no signs of physical contact.  Sam, however, wasn't letting up.  

"I hope you didn't give him a quickie," Sam mocked.

"Fuck off, Birdbrain," Nat scoffed.  "Steve, do you want to announce the winning team?"

"Sure," Steve nodded.  "Drumroll, please."

Everyone patted their legs, making a drumroll noise.  But Tony just waved his hand for everyone to stop.

"Guys stop, just stop." Tony commanded.  "We have an A.I. for a reason.  F.R.I.D.A.Y., drumroll."  F.R.I.D.A.Y. followed her orders and played a drumroll.

"The winning card is….." Steve announced.  "A GOOD SNIFF!!!"  You and Bucky erupted from your seats like a volcano.  Your hair started to glow and you floated in the air for a second.  Everyone saw you and thought you looked like a living candle.  Bucky hugged you and spun you around the room in his arms.  Bucky kissed you and you kissed him back.  Not a makeout, but just a long kiss, filled with passion and love.  

Sam and Clint got pissed that they didn't win, but they clapped for you, very slowly.  Peter clapped for you and cheered, but Tony just sighed and made gagging noises when he saw you kissing.  Nat was smiling at the two of you, and so was Steve.  They looked like proud parents, smiling in approval of how happy you and Bucky were.

"YES!! We won!!" Bucky shouted.

"Told ya we would!" You cheered.  "Take that, Birdbrains!"

"Yeah, yeah good job.  I'm going to bed." Tony groaned and headed up to the elevator, which led him to his room which was on the top floor.  You sighed and said goodnight anyways.

"I should call it a night," Clint said.

"Me too.  See ya tomorrow, lovebirds!" Nat said.  You and Bucky waved goodbye as the two of them headed to their rooms.

"Congratulations guys.  See ya tomorrow!" Steve said.

"They was cheatin." Sam bickered.

"Cmon birdbrain, lets go," Steve sighed.  Sam was bickering with Steve all the way to their rooms, and as they got further away, you could still hear them, which made you laugh.  The only people left in the room were you Bucky and Peter.

"I'm so happy that it worked," Peter said.  "Congrats by the way!"

"Thanks Peter!  I had so much fun!" you smiled.

"Yeah, it was great," Bucky agreed.  "I owe ya big time, Spiderling."

"Oh, thanks grandpa." Peter grinned.  "You have no idea what you owe me."  Then you guys cleaned up the remaining cards and headed back to your rooms.  Peter said goodnight to the two of you and you and the Winter Soldier headed to his room.

"When we get back to my room," Bucky said as you were walking.  "We earn our reward."

[jaskiers-sweetkiss]

Bombshell [B. Barnes] - 2

Pairing: British SHIELD Agent!Reader x Bucky Barnes

Warnings: swearing, (legal) alcohol consumption, explosions, memory loss, mentions of past trauma, mentions of death

Work Count: 5.8K

See end for Author’s Notes.

Masterlist  Previous Part

___

"Agent Y/L/N, what's your status?" the concerned voice crackled over the coms. "Y/L/N check in."

You huffed, rolling your eyes as you took out a guard.

"Jesus Rogers, we split up less than two minutes ago. I'm fine."

"I'm sorry for being concerned," Steve muttered sarcastically under his breath, the coms barely picked it up and you bit back a laugh, trying to remain stealthy.

You peaked your head around the corner, peering into the large room before you to ensure that it was empty. Once you were sure it was clear, you made your way around what appeared to be a storage room, checking for any objects of importance or secret passageways. As you cleared each wall, you made sure to slap a small disk to each one.

"Y/N, we're at the quinjet, what's your status?" Natasha came over the coms.

"Just finishing up down here Nat," you replied lightly, making your way back to the stairs, slapping a few more disks in the hallway for good measure. "Who's 'we'?"

"Steve and me."

You sighed, equal parts worried and relieved. "Wilson, what's your position?"

"Couple Nazis on the roof, I've got it covered," Sam responded with a grunt.

"Take them out quickly, please," you ordered, holding your position on the stairs. "I'm activating the bombs and we'll only have a couple of minutes to get out of here."

"Yes ma'am," Sam answered, and you almost thought you could hear him mock salute you, "Will you have enough time?"

"What do you take me for?" You gasped, offended, "an amateur?"

Sam barked out a laugh and you couldn't help but smile in response.

"Nazis down." He announced over the coms. "Commence explosions."

"With pleasure," you smirked, pressing the button on the activator. "T-minus five minutes to detonation." You announced, running up the stairs. "Nat?"

"We're in position." The redhead affirmed over coms and you ran harder, making sure to press the button on each floor to activate the bombs you had placed on your way to the basement.

You had about two minutes to spare by the time you reached the roof, pushing yourself harder as you sprinted up the quinjet ramp.

"Go!" You barked out, Nat immediately pulling the jet off the roof and into the sky, the ramp not even closed.

"I... am going... to kill... Stark." You panted, doubled over as you tried to catch your breath. You could hear the explosions in the distance as the building beneath you was destroyed. "Honestly... would it kill him... to make longer-ranged bombs?"

"Well, to be fair, we've never had an explosives expert on the team before." Steve defended only to be met with a glare.

"That's no excuse." You glowered. "They had better bombs in World War Two and you know it!"

You had seen some of them yourself in Tripp's suitcase of Howling Commandos gadgets that he got from his grandfather. They may have been bigger and a pain in the ass to set, but at least they gave an adequate amount of time to get to safety.

As if he could hear your thoughts, Steve echoed the same sentiment,

"These ones are a helluva lot easier to set." He argued, tossing one of the round explosives in one hand.

"Rogers, you idiot." You snapped, snatching the bomb out of the air before he could catch it again. "This is a bomb, not a toy!"

Steve had the gall to smile while you scolded him. "Jesus, that is not something I should have to say to someone who is nearly one-hundred-years-old."

"Relax, Y/N, it's not like it's gonna explode." The super-soldier placed a hand on your shoulder and you scowled up at him.

"It very well could!" You knew that he was right, the explosive was stable and could only be activated with the remote, however, now the argument was about principle. "Who's the explosives expert here, hm?"

"How did a history major become an expert in blowing things up?" Sam asked curiously, breaking up your petty argument.

"Well, I've been exploding things since I was a little girl," you began, making a show of putting the bomb back into its designated case before plopping down into one of the many seats lining the interior of the quinjet. "My dad was a science teacher and we used to do all kinds of experiments together. Coke and Mentos, baking soda volcanos, film canister rockets- the works."

You sighed happily, though Sam and Steve didn't miss the sad look in your eyes that was always present when you talked about your family.

"I sort of naturally drifted towards real explosives after SHIELD recruited me." You shrugged and Sam nodded understandably, but Steve was staring at you as if you had just told him the moon was orange.

"What happens when you mix Coke and Mentos?" He asked warily and yours and Sam's eyes widened in disbelief.

"Y-you don't know?" Sam spluttered out through his shock.

Steve shook his head slowly, looking even more alarmed by your response to his question.

"Oh, Stevie, we are going to have so much fun when we get back." You grinned already choosing which of Tony's labs you would be hijacking.

___

"So what did you do for fun when you were a kid?" You asked as you sat on the floor of one of the many Stark labs at the Tower.

A soda-covered tarp sat abandoned nearby and you and Steve were surrounded by nearly-empty two-liters of Coke. After touching back down in New York, you immediately ran out to buy the soda and mints necessary for the classic experiment. You had a hypothesis that Steve might want to repeat the explosion more than once, a hypothesis that the man readily proved correct. Now you sat facing each other, steadily drinking your way through the flat soda left in the bottom of the plastic bottles because you had insisted it was "tradition."

"Well, my ma and I were pretty poor, even before the Depression hit." Steve began, taking a swig of the nearest two-liter and grimacing slightly at the taste of slightly-minty flat Coke. "We couldn't afford to go out much, so we made do with what we had at home. I remember I spent about a week drawing playing cards when our deck fell apart. I used to draw a lot back then."

You recognized the look of mixed nostalgia and grief in Steve's eyes as he spoke about the past; it was a look you were intimately familiar with yourself.

"When Bucky and I moved in together after my ma passed he'd let me sketch him while he cooked or baked in the kitchen." Steve smiled, a faraway look in his eyes as he recounted the past.

"You never helped out?" You asked, teasing lacing your voice.

"Nah," Steve laughed. "I was hopeless in the kitchen, still kinda am. After I nearly burnt down the kitchen twice Buck stopped letting me anywhere near the stove."

You smiled, thoroughly enjoying Steve's storytelling. He seemed at ease in that moment, completely relaxed and open, something rare for Captain America. The wheels began to turn in your own head when he brought up his childhood best friend, now a fugitive with spotty memories of his own past.

"What were his favorite things to make?" You asked and Steve grinned, though it was so natural you weren’t even sure he realized he was doing it.

"I was too sick to work back then, and with only one source of income we were still pretty disadvantaged, but on special occasions, Bucky would make this baked apple pudding that was divine."

"Divine, huh?" You giggled, tucking that information away. "I wish I could've tried it."

"I actually might still have the recipe." Steve perked up at the thought and you stared at him, puzzled.

"How do you still have a recipe from the thirties?"

"When I went into the ice the SSR boxed up everything in my apartment for 'records.' When I woke up SHIELD gave them all back to me." The blond downed the last of the flat soda and jumped to his feet, practically buzzing in excitement. "C'mon let's go look for it!"

"Slow down there, cowboy." You held out a cautionary hand before gesturing at the lab. "We have to clean all this up first so Stark doesn't kill us."

Steve groaned but relented and you spent the next fifteen minutes making sure Tony would never know they had exploded soda in his "state-of-the-art, high-tech labs."

___

"Sergeant Barnes, it's Agent Y/L/N. I'm coming in." You announced into the speaker, the door beside it unlocking with a click as the technology recognized your voice.

The cabin was dark when you entered but before you could reach out to flip the light switch next to the door you were pinned to the wall, grocery bags falling to the floor.

You couldn't help the gasp that escaped your lips though you made sure to control your breathing the way you were trained to. You knew what to do in this situation but needed to remain calm to do it. The arm pressing across the top of your chest made it difficult to breathe steadily, but you were able to manage after a minute of focusing on remaining still and slowing your heart rate.

"Sergeant Barnes." You managed to get out, your voice a bit raspy albeit steady.

The man growled at the name and said something in Russian that you couldn't understand.

"Your name is James Buchanan Barnes." You began again. "You were a Sergeant of the one-hundred-and-seventh division in World War Two. On a mission to intercept an enemy transport, you were injured and captured by Hydra. Hydra experimented on you and brainwashed you."

You could feel the muscles in the arm relax, though the man wasn't close to removing it just yet, so you continued.

"I am Agent Y/N Y/L/N. Three months ago we met in Washington D.C. and I brought you to this safe house. Every week since then I have come here to check in on you and bring you groceries."

This wasn't the first time you had been met with the Winter Soldier when you arrived at the safehouse and you had had to quickly learn how to bring Sergeant Barnes back. You had found the Soldier responded best to facts, and so you would lay out the facts that led Barnes to that moment in the most even and calm voice you could, allowing the Soldier to stand down and Barnes to come through.

"You are not the Winter Soldier, Sergeant Barnes." You reminded him evenly, and after a moment you felt the man relax entirely and stager quickly away from you.

"Agent Y/L/N, I'm so sorry." He gasped, voice ragged as he quickly worked to pick up the groceries that had fallen out of their bags when you had dropped them.

"It's quite alright, Sergeant Barnes. I know that wasn't you."

It was easy to say because you believed it, though you hadn't always. When you had initially brought Barnes to the abandoned SHIELD safehouse it had been to monitor him to see how much of him overlapped with his assassin alter ego. After about a month of observation, you had found that there was no overlap between the two, other than the fact that Barnes held the Soldier's memories. Hydra had tried to erase everything that made James Buchanan Barnes the man he was when creating their super-powered assassin.

"What's all this?" Barnes asked quietly, starring perplexed at the groceries, particularly the bag full of baking supplies.

"I thought you and I might bake something together," you said, trying not to give away your entire plan.

You had hoped to jog the man's memories a bit however you wanted to avoid accidentally planting false memories.

"I... I think I would like that?" The man said, though it came out more like a question as he still wasn't really sure what he did and didn't like anymore.

You smiled reassuringly. "Well then, lets hop to it!"

You worked quickly to put away the rest of the groceries before you laid out the ingredients for your bake on the counter.

"First and foremost those apples are going to need to be peeled and chopped," You said, nodding towards the apples as you held out a knife to the man beside you.

The two of you stood just like that for a moment, you with your arm holding out the knife and Barnes not taking it from you before you finally looked over at the man.

"What's the matter, Sergeant Barnes?" You asked, your accent clipped with concern.

"I can't be trusted." He said softly, and you almost missed it.

"Really now, Barnes, would I be trying to give you a knife if I thought you would hurt me?" You tried to reason, hoping you were doing enough to quell his anxieties. "I trust you, Sergeant Barnes, even if you don't trust yourself."

"James." He spoke so quietly that you weren’t sure if he had even spoken at all.

"What was that?"

"James," He repeated, more confidently this time. "You can call me James."

He wasn't sure why he had said it. From what he could remember, he hated the name James, everybody had called him Bucky. You were confused by it as well. You had never once heard Steve refer to him as James, always Buck or Bucky. Regardless, a first-name basis was a step in the right direction and you would take it.

"Alright then, James," you smiled at the man, "Those apples aren't going to cut themselves."

"Yes ma'am!" He joked as he finally took the knife from your hand, seeming to surprise himself as much as he surprised you and you smiled even wider.

You worked in mostly silence, the kitchen filled only with the sounds of your labor and James giving instructions- you had given him the recipe right away, hoping it would spark some memories. He didn't tell you if it had, but he moved through the kitchen with an ease and comfort you had yet to see from the man. You thought maybe he didn't realize; that he was having a subconscious reaction to being back in the kitchen, baking something that had at one point held such significance to him.

"Alright, Stevie, desserts in the oven, whaddya want for dinner?" James asked, his back to you as he rifled through the fridge. As soon as the words left his mouth he paused, slumping inwards on himself.

"James?" You asked softly, cautiously stepping towards the man.

"I- I remembered something." He said brokenly, and you decided it was safe to place a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"Would you like to talk about it?"

"Steve- I- we used to live together, I think," James spoke, gripping the fridge door tightly in an attempt to support himself. "I- I used to bake this for him, I- where did you get this recipe?"

His voice had turned somewhat hostile with the last question but you stood your ground, not stepping back from the man in front of you.

"Steve gave it to me," you said softly, hoping he could hear the honesty in your voice, "He told me how you used to make it for him."

"Is he- does he know I'm here?" James asked as he turned around to face you, eyes and voice filled with panic.

"No, and I won't tell him until you tell me you're ready."

"Thank you, Agent Y/L/N."

"It's Y/N." You smiled kindly, "Now, what should we have for dinner?"

___

"This mean anything to you?" You asked, eyebrow raised inquisitively as you set the old paper down in front of Skye.

"Where did you get this?" The agent gasped, breezing past the fact that no one was supposed to know what she had been working on.

It wasn't an uncommon occurrence for you, nearly everyone at SHIELD seemed to think you knew more than you did.

"The Avengers brought me along on a Hydra raid. Found that in the basement of the warehouse, thought it looked familiar." You pointed to the worn parchment laid out on the table.

It was covered in an interlocking series of lines and circles that you didn't understand but you had seen Skye working on something similar in the past months.

"Does anyone know you have this?"

"Nope." You answered, a sly grin on your face. "Nabbed it before I left and then blew up the entire building, so Hydra won't know it’s missing either."

"What do you know about it?" Skye asked, seeming to have realized that this was supposed to be between her and Coulson.

"Nothing, other than that Coulson's had you working on it in secret for a few months now," you answered honestly. "You have to be a little quicker when closing down the holoscreen." You added when you noticed Skye's confusion.

"Noted," Skye responded dryly. "Well, thank you for the old parchment but I can't tell you anything else."

"I didn't expect you to," you smiled before asking, "How about something you can talk about? Like what happened with Browning?"

"Hunter's still pissed we've been shadowing them," Skye smirked and you laughed, not even slightly surprised. The mercenary was more a fan of his paychecks than of SHIELD's protocols. "But an enhanced took out Browning before we could get to him. We're pretty sure he's with Hydra which means they're after the 0-8-4 too."

"Big surprise there," you sighed, the world may think Hydra is gone but you knew the truth: they were just biding their time in the shadows once again.

"So when do we go out to collect it before they can?" You asked curiously, having been off base when the first mission had occurred and Coulson wasn't exactly accepting visitors to his office.

"As soon as we figure out where the government is keeping it." Skye sighed and you groaned. The US Government, or more specifically General Talbot, had been making SHIELD's operations even more difficult lately.

"Is he in the lab?" You asked, changing the subject.

"He's barely left, he's working on the samples we collected from the enhanced right now."

You frowned but nodded in thanks to the agent before making your way towards the lab.

Fitz hadn't been doing much better, he was still struggling to come up with words and his hands were still shaky. Additionally, he seemed to be talking to himself, or rather, a version of Simmons he had conjured up for himself. In your downtime on the base, you found herself just sitting in the lab, an option for Fitz to talk to if he wanted but you always brought a book or something to occupy yourself if not. Today you were sitting on the floor, leaning against a lab station while reading Rob Chernow's biography Alexander Hamilton.

"Uhh, Y-Y/N," Fitz began to panic, waving his hand wildly to get your attention.

"What is it?" You asked worriedly, quickly getting to your feet to stand next to the scientist.

"Y-you see that too, right?"

You did see. The metal samples Fitz had been analyzing had begun to ooze with a red liquid.

"Is that... blood?" You asked, face contorted in disgust and slight fascination.

Before Fitz could answer, the two of you watched as the pieces of metal turned into what appeared to be human flesh.

"What the hell?" You muttered under your breath while Fitz relaxed beside you.

"This is good, I mean- weird, but I can-" Fitz stuttered out tensing up once again and shaking his hand as he tried to come up with the words, looking over his shoulder as if looking to someone else for the answer.

"Figure out who's blood it is?" You supplied and Fitz nodded.

"Shouldn't be too hard." He affirmed quietly under his breath as if he needed to convince himself.

"Well you've got my help regardless," You smiled and Fitz nodded lightly before doling out instructions.

It wasn't the first time you had served as Fitz's hands in the lab and you fully intended to offer your services as long as he still needed them. Working together it took you about an hour to analyze the sample and search the various world DNA databases for a match, eventually finding one in SHIELD's own database.

"Carl Creel?" Fitz read the name out loud as you both peered at the monitor.

"We crossed him off the Index?" You asked skeptically, it wasn't uncommon for SHIELD to take out potentially dangerous enhanced individuals in the past, but clearly they hadn't done a very good job with Creel.

You pondered how SHIELD could've been so careless when Fitz pointed to the supervising agent listed on the report.

"Of course it was Garrett," you sighed. "We should get this to Coulson."

___

"Why am I here Maria?" You asked harshly, arms crossed as you stared at the woman. "I could've been helping Coulson."

"I get that you want to help, Y/N, but you still work here and you have to keep up appearances," Maria said firmly, ignoring her friend's scowl. "If you really want to help SHIELD, you'll keep your cover intact."

You rolled your eyes but you knew Maria was right. If you spent too much time away from the Tower the Avengers would get suspicious and they couldn't know that Coulson or SHIELD were still alive.

"Plus, you know you can't get involved with Talbot."

You rolled her eyes again.

"Why does it matter Mar? He clearly saw us both when we crossed his team at Providence. Why does it matter if he sees me with SHIELD again?"

"Y/N, you and I both know why it matters, you're just being stubborn. As far as the world is concerned, SHIELD is a terrorist group and if you're associated with them-"

"It'll bring a lot of bad PR to the Avengers and I'll have to step down from both organizations to protect them." You finished for her, sighing frustratedly. "I know, Maria, I just hate it."

"Go blow off some steam, hang out with the team, whatever you need to do," Maria instructed in the motherly tone she had used when she was your SO. "There's a classified mission on the books to explain your absence."

As if summoned, Sam walked into the conference room moments after Maria had finished speaking.

"Hey! Y/N is back!" He exclaimed, a grin on his face. "Where ya been?"

"That, my friend, is classified," you answered with a sly smirk before turning to Maria in order to keep up appearances, "Am I finished with my debrief, Agent Hill?"

"You're free to go, Agent Y/L/N," Maria confirmed before turning to Sam, "Next time, knock before you burst into occupied meeting rooms, Mr. Wilson."

"You could just lock the door," Sam shot back but retracted it when he was met with Maria's no-nonsense glare. "Yes ma'am, I'll knock next time."

You did your best to hold back your laughter at the interaction until you and Sam had left the room. You immediately erupted into giggles and Sam groaned.

"I don't know why you guys even bother with all that 'Agent Hill' 'Agent Y/L/N' crap." He said, trying to turn the tables on you as you boarded the elevator. "We all know you're friends, it's so unnecessary."

"It's about professionalism, Sam," you answered, smirking. "I know you don't get it because the Avengers lack any sense of professionalism whatsoever but-"

"Hey! I take great offense to that!" A voice yelped from behind you and you turned to see that Tony was on the elevator as well.

"Oh please, Stark, you're the worst perpetrator of unprofessionalism." You pointed out and Sam snorted.

"I'm not the one who exploded coke all over one of the labs with Rogers last week," Tony shot back and you flushed.

"That was on our off time and we cleaned it up!" You protested, "How'd you even find out about that?"

"You think I don't have surveillance in my labs?"

"Wait you guys did the Coke and Mentos without me?" Sam whined right as the elevator doors opened on the gym floor.

"Oh, look at that, this is my floor," you said, rushing off the elevator to escape your friend's inevitable wrath for leaving him out of the childish experiment.

"No way, Y/L/N, you're not getting off that easy," Sam followed you and you broke into a run.

You sprinted down the hallway towards the gym doors, Sam hot on your heels.

"Steve! Nat! Help!" You squealed as you burst through the double doors, darting behind Steve's tall frame as he stood in front of a punching bag.

"Get back here, Y/L/N!" Sam yelled as he ran through the doors, still swinging from your entrance.

"What's this about, Sam?" Steve asked in mock seriousness as the man stalked towards them.

"Oh good Rogers, you're here too," Sam said and Steve had the mind to look alarmed right before Sam landed a hit on the super soldier's arm.

"Sam! What the hell was that for?"

"You guys blew up pop without me!"

"I didn't know you were supposed to do it with us!" Steve protested and the pair went silent for a moment.

Then you found herself struggling in Steve's arms as he turned on you.

"Steve! Let me go!" You gasped.

"Tell Sam you're sorry," Steve instructed, and you bit back a laugh, schooling your face into one of determination.

"Never!" You yelled, using your years of training to maneuver out of Steve's grip and using his weight to your advantage to flip him to the ground, his back landing hitting the mat below them with a thud.

Natasha let out a whoop from the other side of the gym where she had been silently observing. "That's my girl!"

You shot the redhead a grin as you took up a defensive stance. "Try me, Wilson." you dared.

Sam looked between the British agent and the blond supersoldier who was still lying between the mat before standing down.

"Nah," he shook his head, "Just invite me next time."

You snorted but agreed.

"Hey Y/N, wanna spar?" Nat called from the other side of the gym where she was already wrapping her fists.

"Sure," you answered with a laugh, "I love getting my ass kicked by former Soviet operatives."

Sam, Steve, and Nat all laughed and you flipped them off mockingly as you walked to the locker room to change out of your work clothes.

___

"I got here as soon as I could," you said sadly as you knelt next to Skye.

You were in Hartley's room and Skye was packing up the agent's belongings.

"How's everyone holding up?"

"I think we're all compartmentalizing," Skye sighed, folding up a piece of clothing and placing it in the suitcase. "Coulson won't mourn until we find out if Hunter snitched, and Mack and Tripp are putting all their efforts into reverse-engineering the quinjet's cloaking."

You had to remind yourself to take a deep breath to stop yourself from going off about the cloaking. You were less than thrilled with how Coulson, and truly the rest of the team, had been handling Fitz since the accident, and now they had gone ahead and found a cloaking solution even though Fitz had been working on one for months. You knew the organization desperately needed it, but you thought Coulson could've at least brought Fitz on to what they were doing instead of keeping him in the dark. But now wasn't time to get into that debate, now was the time to mourn Hartley and Idaho.

You helped Skye pack up the rest of Hartley's belongings until you were joined by Hunter, who had apparently decided not to betray SHIELD. You gave the two of them space, heading to the lab instead. Your presence there had started as a way to comfort Fitz, but at some point, the grey tiles and sterile surfaces had become something of a comfort to yourself. You had planned to just sit in a corner and stew in your emotions, maybe text Nat or Steve or Sam, but when you approached Mack was there talking to Fitz. You stood in the doorway, not wanting to enter the room and interrupt whatever they were doing. It was rare for other team members to seek out Fitz in the lab, everyone was too afraid of what they'd find.

You watched as Fitz handed Mack a file, the taller agent looking them over.

"I didn't solve this today." Fitz blurted but instead of wincing or pointedly looking anywhere but at the man, Mack looked up from the files to look the scientist in the eyes.

"You think you can?"

You cursed yourself as you let an excited gasp escape you. It immediately drew the two men's attention and the atmosphere of the lab changed.

"Y/N," Mack acknowledged and Fitz looked down shyly.

"I was just coming here for some peace, but I'd love to help," you explained your eavesdropping sheepishly.

"I think we could use the extra hands." Mack smiled and you grinned, stepping into the lab.

"What're we looking at?" You asked, stepping forward to look at the file that was now placed on one of the many lab tables.

It wasn't long before you had a cluster of lab techs gathered around the three of you as Fitz doled out instructions.

"It's about the.. the resonant," Fitz explained, though it was clear that none of the techs quite knew what he meant by the way their eyes flitted between you and Mack for help.

Fitz noticed the looks and you frowned as he clutched the wires he had been holding closer to his chest. "I didn't solve this today."

"So, what is this?" Mack asked, holding up another object that you didn't recognize. "Is this some sort of sonic device? Like the cloaking?"

You watched as the two men grew increasingly frustrated with each other.

"No, I- ugh, I didn't-" Fitz fumbled, his tone becoming more helpless as he continued to be misunderstood.

"Sorry, forget the cloaking." Mack waved it off and you glared at the techs as they exchanged wary looks. "No one blames you for that, let's just focus on Creel."

You yelped slightly as Fitz threw the papers off the lab table they'd been working at and Mack yelled for him to calm down.

"Get. out." You growled at the techs as they exchanged another look when Fitz turned his back to the group. They scampered off and Fitz turned back around to face them.

Okay." He said, taking a deep breath.

"Take it easy," Mack told the man and you frowned as you saw Fitz become visibly upset again.

'Look, I didn't solve this today!" He exclaimed and Mack matched his frustrations.

"Yeah, I know! You've said that already!" He yelled back.

"No!" Fitz exclaimed, "I didn't solve this today."

Mack looked like he was about to blow his top but you finally made the connection.

"You mean you've solved this before?" You asked him eagerly, eyes alight with the realization.

Fitz nodded excitedly, his posture relaxing slightly now that he had gotten his point across.

"Wait, you mean this is an old design?" Mack asked

"Yes! Yes!" Fitz said and you reached for a tablet, pulling up the designs from the past year.

"Okay, we're with you, Turbo," Mack said as they gathered around the tablet.

You began to flip through the designs, a few of which you recognized from various SHIELD reports until Fitz stopped you at one called the Overkill Device.

"Let's tell the team." You grinned at Fitz who looked quite proud of himself as he looked over the schematics.

___

"Did you get the 0-8-4?" You asked eagerly as the team filed off the quinjet.

You had been bitter that you weren’t brought in on the mission, especially since it had nothing to do with Talbot or any other government official but you knew you had accomplished something big back on base so you were willing to let it go.

"No," Hunter shook his head, "But we got Creel."

He jerked his thumb behind him a few agents escorted Creel off the Bus. Hunter wore a shit-eating grin and even dared to throw some taunts at the man as he passed them. You knew this was important to him, after what the man did to Hartley and Idaho.

"So Fitz's device worked?" You were thrilled, he needed a win, and this was a big one.

"Worked like a charm!" Hunter answered, taking a break from yelling insults at Creel's back.

"Woah, what the hell happened to Skye, Tripp, and May?" You demanded as the three slowly made their way off the plane with help from Coulson, each of them glaring daggers at Hunter as they passed by. "And Coulson was in the field?"

"A lot happened, I'll fill you in over a beer," Hunter said, making his way into the base and you followed.

You were mostly quiet as they made your way to the kitchen, Hunter grabbing you two bottles from the fridge.

"So what did you do to piss off May, Tripp, and Skye and to get Coulson into the field?" You asked as they sat on the barstools that lined the kitchen island.

"Might've iced them all to get a shot at Creel," Hunter shrugged nonchalantly and you gaped.

"You what?"

"Then Coulson took Creel down with Fitz's device and offered me a job at SHIELD." Hunter continued, speaking like this was just another day at the office for him.

"Hunter, that doesn't make any sense. You shot three of our agents!"

"With ICERS!" Hunter protested, "I wouldn't have killed them!"

You merely raised an eyebrow as if to say "wouldn't you have?"

"Y'know what? I take great offense to that, Y/L/N." Hunter said, using the hand holding his beer to gesture at your face. "I think I'd quite like to drink alone now."

"You're such an ass, Hunter." You laughed, standing up from your stool.

"Funny, that's what my ex-wife told me before we split up." He joked and you rolled your eyes.

"Well, I suppose I'll be seeing you around, Agent Lance Hunter," you smirked at Hunter's grimace and grabbed two more beers from the fridge, carrying them back to the Hanger.

As you expected, the Bus ramp was down and Mack and Fitz were stood inside.

"You look like you could use some refreshments." You joked as you walked up the incline to stand with the two men, handing each one a bottle.

"What's this for?" Mack asked, an easy smile on his face as he accepted the drink.

"To celebrate, of course," you answered, "Without Fitz, we never could've captured Creel, and if Coulson's plans to hand him over to Talbot works we might finally have the military off our asses."

"I'll drink to that," Mack said and you saw Fitz smile, the three of you clinking your bottles together.

___

a/n: Lot’s of jumps in this one. I think I’ve kinda decided that’s how most chapters are going to be- I’ve got a lot of ground to cover between here and endgame and I don’t want this story to drag on too much. Since the story is in Season 2 of Agents of SHIELD right now I think the Avengers parts are going to be a little lighter to balance out the heavier SHIELD moments (Though I did manage to get in an Avengers action scene). That’ll shift once we reach MCU territory. Also, first full Bucky encounter! Let me know what you think!

[starkerhowlter]

Getting Rid Of Winter

Ship: Stucky Rating: M // Pg-13 Initial prompt: Would Steve Kissing Winter Soldier bring back Bucky? Words: 1813 words Read it on AO3!

Author’s note: This is my first fic to ever be posted... OMG... I’ve been writing since I was 11, but I have never worked up the courage to post it. This is unbeta’ed and has been in the works for a while. If all goes well, I might start uploading fics sorta kinda maybe regularly. Please, let me know what you think!

"Steve, this isn't a good idea..." "Buck, I'm here. What's the worst that could happen?" "I go on a killing spree and destroy half of Brooklyn?" "Well," "Don't say it." "Yeah..." The man sighs, pulling his hair back into a messy bun, "Why do you want to try this?" "Because if we know it works, then I have a viable way to get you out of your murderous headspace if it's needed." Bucky nods, "True... But what if it doesn't work?"  

"Then I will find another way to get you out of there, babe, I promise." The brunette sighs heavily, "I might kill you though." "Remember, you can't kill me." "But..." "But what? Bucky, you will be fine, I swear. If you want, we can even go to Avengers Headquarters and put you in the tank that we put Hulk in. "You wanna cage me like an animal?" "Do you have a better idea?"

That's how they ended up here. Bucky and Steve on one side of the glass, and the other Avengers on the other. "Stark, are you sure this is going to work?" "Yes. He will be safe." "Alright, Bucky are you ready?" "No, but I'm never ready to do this." "You'll be fine!" Steve smiles, "I promise." "You've got me, Nat, Bruce, and Thor down here, and Clint's up there." Tony points to the top of the container, where Clint is waiting. "We won't let anything happen to you, Bucky. We know what you mean to Steve," Nat smiles reassuringly, "Alright, we're gonna lock you in now."  

Steve hugs the man, "I promise, babe, we've got you." He kisses Bucky's forehead, "Alright. Sit here." Steve sits on his knees next to the chair and hooks the handcuffs to his hands. "Here we go..." Bucky's steel-blue eyes pierce Steve's heart making him look well and truly helpless. "I will get you out, babe, I swear." He nods, "Do it."

The man walks away, taking the book from Tony, "I owe Fury big for this, don't I?" "Yes. Here's your shield." "Thank you. He doesn't have any knives or guns, does he?" "Not that the scan picked up." Steve nods, putting on his helmet. "Here we go..." The shield finds its place on his back and a dirty red book sits in his hand. "Here we go, Buck." "I'm ready. I love you, Steve." "I love you more." "Impossible," Bucky smirks, "Now, let's get this over with."

Steve sighs, opening the book, "желание (longing), ржавый (rusted)," Bucky's head falls back, lip quivering and tears forming, "I need you not to fight this, babe." Steve reassures, "Семнадцать (seventeen), Рассвет (daybreak)," Bucky grits his teeth, causing Steve to step back. "Печь (furnace), девять (nine), добросрдечный (benign), возвращение на родину (homecoming)," At this point, Bucky -- Winter Soldier -- has taken to screaming. Long and loud roars that rattle the walls. His muscular arms jerk and pull at the restraints. Steve flinches, "Один (One)," Steve takes a deep breath, "грузовой вагон (freight car)."

Winter Soldier, now doubled in the chair, looks up at him, his eyes dark, "солдат (soldier)?" "готов соблюдать. (ready to comply)" He glances at the dummy, "Ваша миссия: убить его. (your mission: kill it)." He points to the training dummy. "Отрицательный, сэр. Моя миссия - убить Капитана Америку. (Negative, sir. My mission is to kill Captain America.)" Steve looks nervously at what should be his boyfriend but is instead a killing machine in his boyfriend's body. "Ummm...." Steve staggers backwards, the shield cuts in his back. Bucky draws a knife from his pocket, brandishing the blade inches from Steve's face.

"Shit, Bucky, back off!" Steve kicks the man's legs out from underneath him, running to the opposite side of the cell. He hides behind the shield, and yelps when the knife grazes the top of the vibranium edge. "Alright, time to try this." He takes a deep breath and pushes the soldier back with his shield, causing him to drop the knife. The sound of his friends shouting drifts past him, sounding like murmurs. "We can do this, Bucky, c'mon..." Winter growls and kicks him square in the chest, "NO! My name is not Bucky!" The knife disappears from his hand and reappears as a sharp pain in his side.

"Okay, we've got one shot at this..." He mumbles to himself. "You are going to kill someone one day!" Steve sighs, picking up the knife, sickened by the sight of his own blood. Winter, who'd been distracted by clint shooting an arrow at his feet, catches sight of Steve once again. "C'mon, really?" He looks to Nat for ideas.

She motions for him to come over, "Let me in. I will get him down with you and then you can do what you need to." Steve goes to nod and then yells when Winter's arms wrap around his waist and chest. Kicking and screaming, he feels the air leave his lungs. "Get off!" He kicks Winter back, knocking him into the chair in the centre of the room.

"Let me at him." "No!" He shouts and pins the super-assassin against the steel floor of the cell. Winter struggles against his grip, scowling at Steve. "Sit still! Now, Clint!" The archer Avenger shoots two of his wire trick arrows on either side of Winter's arms. "Release the wire." Steve ties the wire to the handcuffs around Winter's wrists. "Sit Still!"

Steve sits on his thighs, trying to avoid Winter's kicks. "Okay, here we go..." He pushes Bucky's sweat-matted brown hair out of his face and leans down to kiss him. What he doesn't notice is that Winter's hands have broken from the wire, snapping the arrows in two. "Steve! He's free!" Nat and Tony shout, "Watch his arms!" The second half of the warning meets Steve's ears a moment too late, as the supersoldier's arms wrap the wire around his neck. Steve, now scrabbling to break free from the ties, catches the look in his murderous partner's eyes. He is well and truly going to die.

Winter pulls the wires tighter, cutting off the much-needed air to Steve's lungs. He tries, kicking, only receiving a harsh tug to the tight collar cutting his neck. Nat appears behind him a moment later, pulling at Winter's arms. "Отпусти его, солдат! (Let him go, Soldier!)" She shouts, thankful that Winter relaxes his hands finally untangling his arms from the wires. "Хорошо, позвольте мне отрезать вас. (Alright, let me cut you out.)" Winter holds still, allowing Nat to cut the wires off of his wrists. "I've got it from here, Nat," Steve says, calmly, unwrapping his kneck. "Are you sure?" "Yes. I've got it, Nat."

"I don't have this..." he murmurs to himself, taking a deep breath. "I will get you outta there, Bucky... I promised." It seems that winter is beginning to grow tired as the man's fighting slows. "Иди сюда, солдат. (Come here, Soldier)." The metal armed man approaches him, clearly apprehensive.  "Брось нож. Мне нужен отчет о вашей миссии. (Drop the knife. I need your mission report.)" "нет. (No.)" "Вы только что сказали нет, солдат? (Did you just say no, Soldier?)" The man's eyes darken, "Mission Report. Sit." Steve points at the other chair in the room, raising his eyebrow.

The metal armed man takes a seat, silently, compliantly. He looks at Steve as though waiting for a command. Steve places a hand on both of Winter's shoulders and leans down, eye-level with him, "I'm only gonna do this once..." He presses his lips to Winter's hoping and praying silently that he's not about to be stabbed.

The way Winter screams would have anyone thinking that he'd been stabbed. In reality, the rush of chemicals is dizzying, intoxicating. Everything in his body fights. Instead of it being dark taking over behind his steel-blue eyes, he sees light. A fantastic burst of hot white light that, he's sure, blinds him from the inside out. Every part of his body feels hot, a fire buried deep in his fingertips, all the way along his arm, scorching the Vibranium and zapping his heart with a jolt. Everything stops at that moment. The world around him, deafening. The light behind his eyes, blinding. And the pressure against his lips, perfect.

Wait, he knows that feeling... From where though? He wracks his brain in time with the... are they sobs? He's crying? Why is he crying he's a machine, he doesn't cry. Why is he, then? "Bucky?" a far off voice questions. He knows that voice. But who is Bucky? He's not Bucky. He's "Soldier". He's "Winter". He's... Bucky? 'No. I am Winter Soldier,' his brain, no, programming, offers. Why does he know that feeling though? There are only two things in the world that give him that feeling: A completed mission and... What was the other one? The words feel jumbled in his head, static in place of vowels and piercing white noise in place of consonants. The question rattles around, the sound akin to scraping metal. He covers his ears but that does nothing.

The feeling remains on his lip. 'What is that?!' his mind screams, 'Get it the fuck off!' Winter tries to press the hard surface away from himself, but whatever it is, it's not moving. His eyes shoot open, and he recognizes those colours. Red... blue... white? He pushes at the man's face, who, in turn, removes his mouth from Winter's face. "Buck?" He asks, removing his helmet.  Winter must look terrified because the figure smiles. A bright white, perfect smile that ignites something in his core. Then the feeling returns to his lip. He realizes that the figure is kissing him. Why is... Captain America?! Why is Captain America kissing him?!

The feeling of terror fades eventually, replaced by a feeling of familiar comfort. If warm had a feeling, it was whatever was happening in his arms. He wraps them unsurely around Captain America's shoulders and finds himself hiding in his neck. Why, though? Why is his intuition to do that? Why is the feeling of Captian America's fingers in his hair so right? "S-Steve?" His voice startles him.  "Which Bucky am I talking to?" He asks, cautiously rising from his place on Bucky's lap.

"Easy, Buck..." The dusty-blonde avenger places his arm around his waist, holding him up. "What happened?" "It worked." "What worked...?" "It got you out." Tony unlocks the door, allowing the two to come out of the tank. "So it worked?" "Yeah."

"Wait, this means one of us has to kiss you?!" Thor smirks at the horrified expression that crosses Tony's face. "I swear if any of you kiss him, you'll have to answer to me," Steve growls. "Alright, easy big guy. No one's gonna take him from you," Bucky's laughing softly at his side, the sound's music to his ears. "Let's get you laid down, babe," He leads them out, happy to have his perfectly imperfect boyfriend back at his side.

[what-is-your-plan-today]

Stark Spangled Banner Ch16: Till The End Of The Line

Summary: The launch is growing ever nearer and in a desperate attempt to stop it before it is too late, the renegade group are intercepted by the Winter Soldier. When he is unmasked, Steve finds himself face to face with someone he presumed dead a LONG time ago, his childhood friend, Bucky Barnes. Only Bucky has no idea who he is... Pairing: Steve Rogers x OFC Katie Stark

Warnings: Violence, bad language words, and some angst.

A/N: This was updated on 18th Sept 2020 to include a little more action at the beginning and a bit of creative license as to how the fight between Steve and Buck on the helicarrier went down, with the addition of Katie being there. Originally I deleted this part, but I found it...and thought it was actually pretty good...so here it is.

Open for tags- ping me an ask

Stark Spangled Banner Masterlist

"HYDRA doesn't like leaks," Sitwell continued to talk and try to plead his case as they drove down the freeway, heading back towards the Triskellion.

"So why don't you try sticking a cork in it," Sam finally snapped.

"Insight's launching in sixteen hours, we're cutting it a little bit close here," Nat said sticking her head between the two front seats from where she was sat in the middle seat next to Sitwell, Katie on her other side behind Steve's seat.

"We can use him to bypass the DNA scans…” Steve said, clearly having already thought it through. “That way we can access the Helicarriers directly, "What?! Are you crazy?! That is a terrible, terrible idea-" Sitwell began to protest but was cut off, his screams dying as he was pulled out of the car and thrown into oncoming traffic just as a sixteen-wheeler was going past. Katie let out a scream as Sam yelled “Shit” and there was a shot fired, a bullet ripping into the seat where Katie had been sat seconds before, Natasha pulling her to the side.

"Move!" Natasha yelled at Steve as she clambered through the middle of the two seat and onto his lap pulling him down away from the next bullet which was meant for him. Steve pulled on the handbrake and the person on the roof dropped down onto the street.  All 4 of them in the car watched as he rolled and rolled and used his metal arm to slow his momentum before standing up. He was tall, well built, long dark hair whipping around his masked face.

“It’s him…” Natasha said, her voice almost a whisper, “The Winter Soldier.”

Katie aimed her gun through the windscreen, taking aim, when they were violently hit from behind causing Katie’s usual dead shot to ricochet off the side of the man’s arm instead of his head. The car behind pushed them closer and closer to him until he was able to leap back onto the roof, as Nat searched for her gun and Katie aimed hers upwards. Suddenly, a metal hand smashed through the windshield and pulled out the steering wheel from Sam’s hand.

"Shit!" Sam yelled again.  Natasha, after having found her gun, started shooting at him but the Winter Soldier jumped onto the jeep behind their car that had started erratically pushing theirs along the road.

“Katie…!” Steve yelled, gesturing for me to climb into the front. "Hang on!”

She scrambled over the central gap between the front seats as Steve broke open the door with his shield pushed up against it, holding onto them all as best he could as the car began to flip. They dropped from the car onto the door as well as the shield and slid roughly along the street. Sam lost his grip and slipped away but luckily he only tumbled a few metres away mostly unharmed.

The three of them that remained hanging onto the shield quickly stood once they had come to a complete stop, the jeep that had caused the crash stopping as well, men all fully armed climbing out and one of them handing the Winter Soldier a grenade launcher, which he immediately used. Steve pushed Katie and Natasha out of the way and took the full force of the grenade with his shield which sent him flying over the bridge, just as the Winter Soldier reloaded and began firing at the rest of them.

They quickly dove for cover behind a car and together moved along the bridge, car by car, Natasha and Katie shooting back at the soldiers with their hand guns. Katie tossed one of my spare pistols to Sam who caught it, and started firing as well. This was working at keeping them at bay reasonably well, until they were forced to the edge of the bridge and the Winter Soldier shot another grenade at them.

There was nothing for it, they had to jump. Nat had her anchor so she leapt off, grabbing Katie’s hand as she shot up at the concrete of the bridge. They landed a bit heavier than normal, Katie rolling a few feet over the contract but she was soon back on her feet and running behind Natasha under the bridge.  Nat skidded to a halt as they reached the other end, the shadow of the Winter Soldier visible on the ground in front of them. They shared a quick glance and with a nod they split up, Katie veering left, Natasha veering right. With a deep breath, Katie stepped out from the shelter of the bridge, took aim and shot her gun up at the Soldier and she saw his head jerk back, and then he removed his glasses. She had hit where she had aimed but it hadn’t done as much damage as she had hoped.

Ducking back under the bridge she carried on running and at this point she could hear machine gun firing and paused as she turned to see the fire trained onto a bus. Steve emerged from the end of it, rolling and picking up his shield and adding to the fray, Sam was firing at hostiles as well from his vantage point above.

“Go, I got this…”He yelled and Steve set off running once more.

Katie turned and looked across the way, the Winter Soldier was stalking between cars, presumably looking for them. She shadowed him, remaining a good distance away, as he rolled something under a car. Next thing she knew, there was an explosion and Nat had vaulted onto his back, attempting to tackle him that way. Katie sprinted towards her, and then slid across the floor, kicking at the back of his knee, making him stumble slightly but nothing more. She jumped up just as he flipped Natasha over onto her back and aimed a shot at him causing him to leap off somewhere to his right. Katie spun round, her gun aimed ready, looking for him but he was nowhere to be seen.

She started to sprint over towards Natasha, yelling at the screaming members of the public to get out of the way as she went, when she felt a searing pain in her shoulder. She gave a scream of pain, stumbled, and dropped to her knees putting a hand to the wound someone had just shot clean through. She backed up against a car, breathing hard looking around again when a thump from behind her had her turning to see that the Winter Soldier had hopped onto the hood of the car behind the one she was leaning on, gun aimed straight at her head.

Steve had heard that scream and he spun round to see Katie was pressed up against a car, her hand up against her left shoulder, her eyes fearful. As he turned to sprint towards her, the the Winter Soldier hopped up onto the car behind, taking aim with his gun Steve launched his shield with a loud grunt and  It knocked the metal armed man off the car, but with practiced ease the assassin landed on his feet and made to shoot again but Steve was right there, on him, launching a knee to his chest. The Winter Soldier stumbled slightly, before he cocked his head to one side, threw his gun away and advanced on Steve. The two began to fight, furiously, Steve blocking the swipes the assassin took at him with a dagger, slamming him into cars with his shield. 

Toe to toe they went, the fight was furious. Each landing blows which would under normal circumstances dispatched an opponent but here, they were pretty equally matched. The man was just as strong as Steve and The Captain realised that he had to be enhanced.

As the fight was raging between the two men, Natasha reached Katie’s side and dropped to her knees, ripping off her jacket and covered the wound with it in an attempt to stem the blood flow. "Alright, c'mon." She said wrapping her arm over her shoulders. "Get up."

She helped Katie to her feet, and the injured woman looked back in time to see the Winter Soldier launch himself at Steve. Steve managed to grab him under his chin, propelling him straight over the top of him in a huge arc, causing his mask to clatter to the ground right before the dark haired man landed gracefully on his feet. Steve stood up, waiting to see the face of the man who was causing them so much goddamned trouble, but when the guy turned round, he felt his heart stop.

Katie frowned as she watched as Steve stood stock still, staring at the now unmasked Winter Soldier who looked oddly familiar. It took her a moment but then she realised, he was familiar because she’d seen him in photos. His hair was longer, and he looked a little more ragged round the edges, but it was him.

Steve took a deep breath, his heart stopping as he looked into the man’s grey eyes.

“Bucky?” he gasped, frowning.

“Who the hell’s Bucky?” the man said. Steve paused, it sounded like him. It looked like him. It was him, but in the same way it wasn’t. What had Hydra done? The Soldier seemed to be thinking about something, before he shook his head slightly and aimed at Steve with his last remaining gun, but before he could shoot Sam swooped down, his wings once again attached to his back, and kicked him away but he didn’t stay down for long.

Katie looked around, and noticed that there was an RPG on the floor, she nodded towards it and Natasha picked it up, and aimed a well fired grenade over Steve’s head, forcing him to duck. It exploded where the Winter Soldier had stood, bringing the fight to an end.

Steve turned and looked and Katie slumped against the van, struggling to stay on her feet. It was then that black vans and jeeps surrounded them, and the former STRIKE teams piled out.

"Drop the Shield, Captain! Get down on your knees! Get on your knees! Now! Get down! Get down!" Rumlow shouted out the orders. Steve did as he was told and placed his shield on the ground while holding his hands up defensively, not once taking his eyes off Katie, as she screamed in pain as a hand sharply grabbed her shoulder, pressing down on the injury. She was hauled forwards, stumbling, her hands roughly snapped in cuffs in front of her.

Steve started to struggle but a gun was pressed into the back of his head causing him to stop. He didn’t listen to what they were saying, he was too busy trying to make sure Katie was ok, and then there was Bucky. As he stood up and was shoved forward, he was directed towards an SUV, followed by Nat and Sam. He turned to see Katie fall as she was shoved forwards before being wrenched roughly back to her feet by Rumlow who grabbed her arm harshly and grinned as he leant down, his mouth inches from her ear.

“Of all the times I dreamed of getting you in handcuffs…” he said, loud enough for Steve to here. The soldier let out a growl in his throat as Katie bared her teeth at Rumlow.

“Fuck you.” she spat.

“Oh darling, if only…”

“I warned you what would happen if you touched my girl again…” Steve snarled as with a huge wrench he snapped the cuffs that were pinning his arms behind his back and kicked out at the soldier that was stood at the side of the SUV. He advanced towards Rumlow. who almost lazily pulled a pistol from his belt and held the barrel against Katie’s head.

“One more move Rogers and I’ll blow her pretty little head off.”

Steve stopped dead, swallowing, his eyes blazing as he looked at Katie, her face was contorted in pain from the shot in her shoulder. She fixed her eyes on his, and he took a deep breath and looked back at Rumlow. 

“In the van...”  Rumlow instructed. 

And Steve knew he had no choice. With a last look at his girl he turned, bowing his head slightly. Once inside a pair of masked agents shoved him down, one giving him a harsh dig to his stomach, knocking the wind out of him as they clamped his feet in strong shackles to the side of the van, clamping his hands together in equally strong restraints in his lap.

Rumlow just laughed and threw Katie into the SUV, unceremoniously. She staggered to a seat as the doors swung shut behind them, the van starting and beginning to move only moments later.

Steve’s heart was in his mouth as he saw the extent to which his girl was hurt, the left side of her denim jacket was soaked with blood. She lay her head back against the seat and took a deep breath letting out a moan. It hurt. A lot. 

“Katie…” Steve he said, making sure his voice was calm “Come on, talk to me, sweetheart.”

“You know…” she said, opening one eye. “I’m going to get one of my childhood friends shoot you, see how you like it…”

Steve took a deep breath, glad she was still able to make jokes, but also comforted by the fact she’d recognised Bucky too, and he wasn’t going totally crazy.

“Childhood friend?” Sam asked “You mean that dude, Robocop? You know him?”

“Bucky…” Katie whispered, looking at Sam “Steve’s Riley…”

“He was my best friend. One of the Commandos.” Steve said softly, looking at his feet.

 “What?”  Natasha questioned. “It can’t be…”

"It was him," Steve said "And he looked right at me like he didn't even know me."

"How is that even possible?" Sam asked in disbelief. "That was like, seventy years ago."

"Zola," Steve immediately answered. "Bucky's unit was captured back in 43'. Zola experimented on him. Whatever he did helped Bucky survive the fall. They must have found him and..."

"None of that's your fault, Steve," Katie said gently as she grit her teeth through the pain in her shoulder. She was starting to feel a little light headed.

"Even when I had nothing, I had Bucky."

He heard Katie taking a deep breath through her nose, and suddenly he was jerked back to the here and now. She needed help.

"We need a doctor here," Sam’s voice sounded out, beating him to it as she rest her head back against the seat. She was starting to feel really sleepy. Really sleepy.

“I think I need to sleep…” she muttered, softly and Steve instantly leaned forward, speaking in his Captain’s voice in a hope it would jerk her out of it.

“Stay awake. Eyes on me, doll”

"If we don't put pressure on that wound, she's gonna bleed out here in the truck...” Sam cut off and Steve turned to see why, watching with an open mouth when he saw the guard on the left whip out an electric rod, before flipping it and electrocuting the other guard before kicking and knocking them unconscious.

"That thing was squeezing my brain," Maria Hill complained as she pried the helmet off.

“Nice of you to show up…” Katie groaned, “We only called you like what, 12 hours ago…”

“Who's this guy?" Hill asked, ignoring Katie and nodding to Sam.

"Sam Wilson." Steve quickly introduced him, happy to see a friendly face. "Sam this is Maria. She's on our side." He added and Sam nods accepting Steve's word as Hill took out a set of keys and began to unlock their restraints.

Steve was by Katie’s side as soon as he was free. Her arms were released and she moved, crying out in pain.

“It’s ok…” he said as the truck stopped. “We’ll get you fixed up honey, I promise.”

"We gotta' get moving, Cap." Hill said, moving to the middle of the van. “Stand back”

What the device was he had no idea, but he didn’t care. It lazered through the SUV floor with ease and he turned to see Katie had now passed out. Giving a groan of frustration, he gently picked her up, and Maria dropped herself out of the SUV, then Natasha, then Sam who Steve passed his girl to gently. Once he was out, they rolled to the side, dodged down an alley and into another waiting SUV. Sam gently placed Katie on one of the seats, Hill passing Steve a spare jacket so that he could place it over the wound, applying pressure.

“Lay her flat…” Sam said, as the SUV sped forward “it’ll help stop the flow…”

With Sam’s help they managed to manoeuvre Katie so she was lay with her head on Steve’s lap. She murmured something and with his spare hand he gently carded his fingers through her hair.

“We’re not far out Cap.” Maria said, looking at him “Bout 20 mins or so. I’ll call ahead to medical, make sure they’re prepped”

He nodded and leaned back, lost in his thoughts. Bucky, Katie, Bucky, Katie… like a mantra it kept repeating in his head. Sam and Natasha were busy asking Maria questions, and he vaguely caught her answers-there was a secret SHIELD base outside town, no Hydra didn’t know, yes she was sure, yes she knew about insight and yes it needed to be stopped.

After what felt like the longest 20 minutes of Steve’s life they drew up to a stop outside what looked like a huge dam of sorts built into the side of a hill, and Steve stood up, easily picking Katie up into his arms, following Maria’s direction. They entered the large concrete doors into a brightly lit corridor and Maria shouted to someone who was running towards them dressed in a white coat.

"GSW. She's lost at least a pint!" Maria was shouting.

"Maybe two," Sam added.

He felt Katie stir in his arms and he glanced down to see her blinking, her eyes screwed against the light.

 “Where…” she grimaced slightly at the pain both in her head and her shoulder. Fuck, she had no idea where she was or what had happened, other than she had clearly passed out.

“We’re safe.” Steve said, pressing his lips to her forehead, relieved to hear her voice even if she did sound like she was in agony. 

"Let me take her," the doctor called out.

“No,” Steve said firmly, his grip on Katie tightening slightly “Show me where to put her.”

"They’ll want to see him first" Maria said to the doctor who nodded and gestured for Steve to follow him.

“Who?” Katie asked, blinking.

No one answered and they were led to a room at the back of the facility where Hill pushed aside the plastic divider to where a very much alive Nick Fury was sat up in a bed.

Steve felt his mouth drop open as Fury remarked. "About damn time."

The doctor came in behind them and gestured for Steve to place Katie into a seat so he could start working on her wound. He did so gently, his hand sliding into her hair once more as he placed a kiss onto the crown of her head, not moving far from her, his hand gently resting on her good shoulder.

“This is gonna sting a bit Miss Stark…” the doctor said, and she nodded, hissing as he injected the local into the wound, and her spare hand reached up to grip Steve’s.

“You ok?” he crouched down and she turned to look at him.

“Marvellous.” she said, sarcastically “This is the best day of my life.”          

He chuckled, as long as she was being snarky she was ok. “You’ll be fine, won’t she doc?”

The doctor nodded. “I know it doesn’t feel like it but this is quite superficial.” he held up the bullet he had removed. “It hasn’t gone in too deep. You’ve just lost a fair bit of blood but I’m not too concerned, unlike him”

He gestured at Fury and Katie turned to look at him as Steve stood up doing the same.

"Lacerated spinal column, cracked sternum, shattered collarbone, perforated liver, and one hell of a headache." Fury spoke.

"Don't forget your collapsed lung," The doctor added.

"Let's not forget that," Fury chuckled. "Otherwise, I'm good."

"They cut you open," Natasha spoke to Fury. Her voice not accusing but hurt, "Your heart stopped."

"Tetrodotoxin B. Slows the pulse to one beat a minute. Banner developed it for stress. Didn't work so great for him, but we found a use for it." Fury replied

“Ok you’re done.” The doctor said and Steve turned back to see Katie who was now plugged up to a bag of blood. “Bit of rest and I’ll check your levels later.”

“Thanks…” she said, turning back to Fury.

"Any attempt on the Director's life had to look successful," Hill informed Steve eyed her, remembering how defeated she had looked at the hospital when they announced Fury's 'death'. Either she hadn't known at the time, or she was a damn good actor.

"Can't kill you if you're already dead. Besides, I wasn't sure who to trust," the Director admitted.

*******

"This man declined the Nobel Peace Prize. He said peace wasn't an achievement, it was a responsibility," Fury scoffed while throwing a picture of Alexander Pierce to the middle of the table they were all sat round once they had all finished telling each other what had happened at the various stages of the day. "See, it’s stuff like this that gives me trust issues."

"We have to stop the launch," declared Steve.

"I don't think the Council's accepting my calls anymore." Fury added with a huff of a laugh, even though there was nothing funny about the situation at all.

“Ok so what do we do?” Katie cut in, “How do we stop it?”

Hill glanced at Fury before she leaned forward in her seat to grab the case which had been sitting on the table. She clicked the locks, opened up the top and spun it round to show them what was inside- 3 equally sized chips with similar designs of code etched into them.

"Once the helicarriers reach 3,000 feet, they'll triangulate with Insight satellites, becoming fully weaponized," Agent Hill explained, opening up a laptop. She turned it around to allow them to see a simulated concept video of what she was saying. "We need to breach those carriers and replace their targeting blades with our own. One or two won't cut it. We need to link all three carriers for this to work, because if even one of those ships remains operational, a whole lot of people are gonna die."

"We have to assume everyone aboard those carriers is Hydra. We have to get past them, insert these server blades. And maybe, just maybe we can salvage what's left-" Fury started but he was cut off by Steve who harshly interrupted.

"We're not salvaging anything.” He said shaking his head slowly, and he meant it. “We're not just taking down the carriers, Nick. We're taking down SHIELD"

"SHIELD had nothing to do with this." Fury tried to defend his organization but there was a derisive snort which cut him short. Everyone turned in the direction from which it had been issued.

“Sorry, did I do that out loud?” Katie said, sitting up slightly.

“You gave me this mission.” Steve said, turning back to Nick, shaking his head “This is how it ends. SHIELD's been compromised. You said so yourself. Hydra grew right under your nose and nobody noticed."

"Why do you think we're meeting in this cave? I noticed," Fury said waving around him as if it was somehow enough.

"How many paid the price before you did?" Steve snapped, voice still hard, as his mind turned to Bucky. 

"Look, I didn't know about Barnes." Fury sighed sitting back in his seat.

"Even if you had, would you have told me? Or would you have compartmentalised that, too?” Steve’s tone was icy. He knew the director hadn’t been involved in whatever Hydra had done but he couldn’t help but feel angry. He took a deep breath and when he spoke again his voice was softer but still as stern “SHIELD, Hydra…” he shook his head gently “it all goes."

"He's right," Hill finally spoke, sadness tinged her voice.

Director Fury looked at every single person in the room. He made specific eye contact with Katie who raised her eyebrows, defiantly. Natasha didn’t react at all, which in itself was enough. Then finally he looked to Sam, clearly curious as to what he thought about the whole thing.

"Don't look at me. I do what he does, just slower," Sam vouched. Steve couldn’t help but smirk slightly.

"Well..." Fury leaned back and let out a sigh as he looked Steve in the eye. "It looks like you're giving the orders now, Captain."

Whilst Steve was glad, he took no pleasure in what they were about to do. SHIELD along with Katie had been his anchor after waking up and bringing the security agency to its knees made him quite sad, especially after Peggy, Howard and Chester had been its founders. Nevertheless it was the right thing to do and for the next few hours they sat discussing and eventually had the bones of a plan in which each person had a different role to play. Natasha would be posing as one of the World Security Council members, using a Photostatic Veil to bypass the security measures, joined by Fury. And, as Hill had somehow retrieved Katie’s Nova suit from her car (Katie didn’t even bother asking how) her, Steve and Sam would be the ones going from helicarrier to helicarrier with the chips and switching out the old ones with the new ones. Maria would be on the ground, making sure all was going to plan.

“We’re going to have to come up with another way to disable the encryption.” Nat said, looking at Fury as he took a sip from a bottle of water. “Pierce will have erased all of your clearance from the Triskelion system”

“Not all of it.” Hill said with a wry smile

“What do you mean?” Katie frowned, taking the chocolate bar Steve handed to her with a smile. The doctor was happy with her blood levels but told her to keep her sugar and energy levels high, as such, Steve was ensuring she ate enough by consistently passing her snacks from the pile that Hill had dumped in the middle of the table for everyone to munch on until pizzas arrived.

Fury looked at her, then to Hill, before he reached up and flipped up his eyepatch revealing his badly scarred right eye.

“I build safety switches into most things these days.” He said dryly. “There’s a scan of this eye hidden on an old database, a seemingly un-active one from the 90s... “

“So if we can access that database remotely, we can pull that scan across onto the active one and bingo.” Katie grinned, swallowing her bite of the Snickers.

“We don’t have the capacity to do that from here.” Natasha sighed,

“No, but JARVIS can" Katie said

“Alright.” Steve said, drawing himself up to full height “We only have..." he checked the clock on the wall. "6 hours until the launch." Steve nodded at the people who were watching him from their spots at the table. "Everyone, I suggest we get to it.”

There was a flurry of movement accompanied with the scraping of chairs as people pushed themselves away from the table, ready to put their wheels of the plan into motion.

****

“Hey JARVIS…” Katie said as she accessed the AI on one of the laptops

“Miss Stark…” JARVIS greeted.

“I got another favour to ask. I need access to SHIELD's old clearance scans from 1995. We're talking the high-ups, the OG's."

"Dare I ask why?" and Katie rolled her eyes at his response. Fucking Tony.

"Because." she answered simply in the hope it would stop him from questioning her. It did.

“It might take me a little while.”

“Fast as you can J.” she said, “We’re up against it here.”

“Are you sure you don’t want me to contact Mr Stark?” he asked

“No, I don’t”

It took 30 minutes. Thanking JARVIS, Katie started to scroll through the database to get the name she wanted. She quickly scanned the information. The database was full of former SHIELD security clearances. Some had moved on to other places - CIA, FBI, etc. Others had to get new clearances when they moved up in the world of SHIELD, few had just simply died and left their clearances behind.

The one she was looking for was still alive, although HYDRA and Pierce thought otherwise. Fury had hidden an alternative retina scan under the name Carol Danvers. She had no idea if that was a significant name to him or just something random, but she didn’t really care. She pulled the access pass and sent it to the main database so they could use it when they got to the Triskelion without going through the backway again.

Taking a deep breath before standing up, she glanced down at the laptop before closing it and heading off to find Steve.

The soldier was outside, desperate for some fresh air, lost in his thoughts. He should have gone back for Bucky. He survived the fall, but Steve had left him. Left him to the clutches of HYDRA, who had brainwashed him into becoming their assassin. He ran his hand over his face and leaned against the railing, watching as the first tendrils of daylight broke over the horizon.

As always he was aware of her presence before she spoke, so he wasn’t surprised when she asked if he was ok, and turned to face her, letting out a sight.

 “Not really…” he said, honest to a fault.

“You know, this is the right thing to do…” she said, as she slid between him and the barricade of the bridge so that her lower back was pressed against the rails.

“I know.” both his hands dropped to her hips. “I really wish you’d sit this one out”

“I can’t sit it out Steve. You know that.” she said “this is personal for me too. Besides, you need me.”

He understood. And there was no point trying to make her stay behind, she was probably the only person on the planet that could rival him for stubbornness. And she was right, they did need her.

“He’s going to be there.” Katie said gently, breaking the silence.

“I know.”

“Whoever he used to be, the guy he is now… I don’t think he’s the kind you can save, Steve. He’s the kind we need to stop.”

“I have to try” Steve said, eventually looking at her, pleading with her to understand “I can’t just give up on him.

She did understand, she understood perfectly well, and could only imagine what he was feeling at seeing his best friend, the man he had known all through his childhood, manipulated in such a way.

"We can never give up on those we care about, we can only try our best." she said.  “Just...remember that he's not the same person he was seventy years ago."

He raised his eyebrows up slightly.

"Neither am I." he responded matter of factly. She held eye contact with him for a moment, but she knew there was no point in trying to convince him otherwise; Bucky was his best friend. He loved him and wasn't about to let Hydra take him away again and eventually she gave a soft smile.

“I know.” she said gently, just before he pressed his lips to hers. She kissed him back, eagerly, the kiss grew deeper and his hands crept from her hips up to her hair, pulling her closer as he pressed against her, trapping her completely against the barrier.

Eventually, reluctantly, he pulled away laying his forehead against hers 

“I love you.” he said softly

“I love you too.” she replied

He looked over her shoulder at the rising sun and took a slight step back. “Tell the rest of ‘em to suit up, it’s time.”

In the meantime, he had his own suit to get. One which he’d been wearing the last time he took those fuckers down. And he was hoping, albeit probably in vain, that if he did encounter the Winter Soldier, it would jolt Buck’s memory about who he was.

“You gonna wear that?” she said, gesturing to his chinos and jacket, her eyebrow raised.

Steve looked at her with a smirk. "If you're gonna' win a war, you've gotta wear a uniform. He dropped a kiss to her head and took off at a run.

Katie smiled as she watched him knowing exactly where he was going.

*****

“Comms on 6…” Hill said as Steve, Sam and Katie jumped down from the SUV on the side of the Potomac to the Triskelion, not far from where the control operations were. Katie was holding the case that contained her suit in her right hand. She’d confessed to Sam that she’d only flown in it a few times, but Sam wasn’t too concerned and neither was Steve. Sam had promised to fly with her in tandem, and Steve trusted the man completely despite only having known him a number of days.

“Rogers, Hill…” Fury spoke in their ears “I’ll open ours as soon as it is safe to do so…” he paused. “Good luck.” They silently and quickly made their way down the side of the Potomac. The first task was to disrupt the comms and security surrounding the Launch Bunker so that no one would know they were arriving. A simple EMP did that.

And then, just as Steve was about to kick the door in to the main room, it opened.

The techy on the other side simply stared as he was confronted with the 4 of them. His eyes flickered first to Steve, then to the Katie and Mara who had their guns trained on him.

"Excuse us," Steve shot the tech a pointed look. He immediately held his hands up and stepped aside to let them enter with a nervous, slightly scared look on his face.

They stepped inside, looking around at the remaining 8 or so people in the bunker, all of whom immediately raised their hands.

“You got exactly 10 seconds to get the hell outta here…” Sam said, looking around. They didn’t need telling twice, several of them tripping over in their scramble to the door.

“Bit dramatic don’t you think?” Katie teased, as Sam shrugged, a grin spreading across his face as she dropped her case to the floor. Steve gently pushed past her towards the desk.

“Which one is it?” Steve was looking for the coms button which would project his voice around the Triskellion. Maria pointed to one of the buttons and mics on the desk in front of her, where she was sat, tapping at the computer.

Steve looked at Katie and licked his lips, somewhat nervously. He had given speeches before, but none like this.

“If there’s anyone that can make people understand it’s you.” Katie encouraged, and he nodded, taking a deep breath, before pushing the button, his voice suddenly amplifying as it filled every speaker in the building.

"Attention, all SHIELD agents. This is Steve Rogers. You've heard a lot about me over the last few days, some of you were even ordered to hunt me down. But I think it's time you know the truth. SHIELD is not what we thought it was, it's been taken over by Hydra. Alexander Pierce is their leader. The STRIKE and Insight crew are Hydra as well. I don't know how many more, but I know they're in the building. They could be standing right next to you. They almost have what they want: absolute control. They shot Nick Fury and it won't end there.” he took a pause before he continued “If you launch those Helicarriers today, Hydra will be able to kill anyone that stands in their way, unless we stop them. I know I'm asking a lot, but the price of freedom is high, it always has been, and it's a price I'm willing to pay. And if I'm the only one, then so be it. But I'm willing to bet I'm not,"

He finished and took a deep breath as Katie smiled at him and Sam looked up.

"Did you write that down first, or was it off the top of your head?" he quipped.

Steve looked at him, trying to keep his face straight, before he turned to Maria who smiled, nodding at the screen.

“Alright, I’m in…” she said, before reaching into the briefcase and handing each of them one of the new targeting chips. “Get in, switch them over, get out.”

They all nodded and Katie bent over, pressing her fingers onto the security pad on the case containing her suit. As it sprang open she stepped forward, the metal pieces connecting and flowing over her body, the dark navy and gold suit forming around her before the face plate slid down.

“That’s the coolest thing I’ve ever seen…” Sam muttered, and Steve smiled. He’d only seen her in it once before when she had been running a test flight. Katie turned to Sam and although he couldn’t see her face, Steve knew from her tone she was grinning.

“You aint seen nothing yet Sammy…”

The three of them made their way around the banks of the river towards the triskelion, Sam and Steve running, Katie flying behind them at a low height. Suddenly, feeling the vibrations under his feet Steve skidded to a halt, Sam doing the same. Katie landed behind them, and looked down.

“What’s that?” she asked as the floor vibrated below them, retracting her face plate. ”JARVIS, gimme a scan…”

“Below the Potomac river is a hangar…” JARVIS said, his voice sounding in Steve’s ear too.  “And it looks like the doors are activated.” No sooner had he finished than Maria’s voice came over the comms "They're initiating the launch"

“Clearly your speech rattled them enough to bring it forward…” Katie said as the 3 of them headed to where the ground was opening and the Hellicarriers were launching.

“Hey Cap, how do we know the good guys from the bad guys?" Sam questioned as he ran.

"If they're shooting at you they're bad." Steve answered. Sam extended his wings and flew off after the highest Hellicarrier, while Steve jumped down onto the launching bay beginning to fight, Katie flying behind him, doing her best to clear out as many agents as she could

"Hey, Cap, I found those bad guys you were talking about," Sam suddenly reported.

"You alright?" Katie asked.

"Not dead yet," Sam answered

Together Katie and Steve fought their way across the bay, clearing as much of a path for Steve as possible, before Katie spiralled through the air and up towards the one she had been designated. Dodging fire easily as she went thanks to JARVIS’ evasion techniques, she landed with a clang on the deck.

“I’m in…” she said, before a barrage of bullets ricoched off her back. She turned, cocked my head to one side before she smirked.

“Hi fellas…” she said, firing up her repulsor beams and sending them their way, before shooting upwards once more towards the central control column.

"Falcon, status?" Maria demanded.

"Engaging," Sam reported, before a moment later "Alright, I'm in…oh,shit!” he cursed.

"Eight minutes," Maria warned

"Working on it," Steve’s reply was punctuated by a grunt.

When Katie’s carrier was clear, which didn’t take too long, there were nowhere near as many agents on this than there was on the other, she landed by the control panel and stepped out of her suit, chip in hand. Punching in the code Maria had given them, she swapped out the targeting disk and grinned as he pushed everything back into place.

"Alpha locked," she reported, stepping back into my suit.

"Falcon, where are you now?" Maria asked anxiously.

"I had to take a detour!" Sam’s voice was loud. Katie took off, bursting through one of the glass windows of the Alpha carrier to see Sam spiralling through the air, being shot at by Hydra missiles. She surged forward, shooting randomly, turning their attention to her as she twirled down towards the glass dome surrounding the next helicarrier before at the last moment going into a vertical climb upwards, meaning the beams hit the glass creating an entrance for Sam.

“Oh, honey you fly better than me!" Sam happily exclaimed and Katie chuckled as he dropped into the hole. A moment or two later he spoke again “Bravo locked," and he shot back out into the bright sky.

"Alright, that's two down. How's it coming, Cap?" Maria questioned

"Still working on it!" Steve repeated. And he was. He had no idea how he managed to end up on the damned carrier with the most agents on it but they just kept coming and coming, like a never ending swarm of ants. He kicked out, taking another one down with a huge roundhouse kick and felt a bite of frustration as Hill urged him on.

"Better step it up Cap." she said, then there was the sound of 2 gun shots before she spoke again “6 minutes”

It was then that Steve realised he was blocked in. Agents behind him and a quinjet was aiming at him from ahead. He had no alternative but to dive off the edge of the hellicarrier.

"Hey, Sam, Sweetheart…I'm gonna need a ride," Steve said easily as he fell through the air.

"Roger! Let me know when you're ready!" Sam answered easily.

"I just did!" he said, his voice remarkably calm for a man who was currently freefalling at a fast pace. Suddenly his arms were tugging upwards, and he was deposited back on the tarmac, Sam landing besides him.

"You know, you're a lot heavier than you look," Sam grunted and Katie laughed, firing at an agent that was left before she dropped down with a clang.

"Yeah, well, I had a big breakfast." Steve responded cheekily.

Sam was about to respond when suddenly a blur of black and silver flew out from behind a crate and tackled Steve off the edge of the helicarrier.

“Steve!” Katie yelled, immediately launching to go after him but something grabbed at her foot, crunching down.

“Right thruster is compromised…” JARVIS said, as whatever had gripped her suddenly let go and she looped in the air, trying to gain her balance with only one thruster. As she spun to look at her assailant she caught a glimpse of a metal arm grabbing at Sam’s wings, throwing him backwards.

Sam managed to stop his backwards momentum and started to shoot at him in response. Katie joined in with her repulsors and one of the weapon guns from her shoulder, the two of them forcing the Winter Solider to retreat.

“Steve…” she yelled into her comms, flying off the side unsteadily with the one boot working “JARVIS run scan…” “Captain Rogers is there by the port side…” he said, and to her relief she saw his heat signature pulling himself up at the side of the carrier. She turned, expecting to see Sam behind her but instead she saw the Winter Soldier charging forward and kicking him off the Helicarrier. Sam began to plummet, one of his wings not working so Katie dove after him, grabbed his arm and managed to land the pair of them, albeit rather un gracefully, on the roof of the Triskelion.

“Thanks…” he mumbled dusting himself off as Katie retracted my face plate

"Steve, are you okay?" Katie asked earnestly.

"I'm alright. I'm still on the helicarrier." Steve responded. "Where are you?"

“Triskellion roof.” She spoke.

"I'm grounded, the suit's down. Sorry, Cap." Sam sighed.

“Katie?”

“One of my thrusters is out.” she sighed, “I’m running on half capacity…but I can get up to you if I need to.”

"It’s okay, I've got it." Steve said “I’ll call if I need you.”

“Half capacity?” Sam looked at her.

“Have to channel double the power to the non-fucked boot!” she shrugged, holding it up “Or I fall…means everything else gets compromised.” “Huh…” “Tony’s working on it…” she muttered as they looked up at the 3 hellicarriers, her eyes falling on the one Steve was currently on. “He’s gonna come face to face with him…”

“Yeah…” Sam sighed “Maybe he can make him remember who he was.” “You don’t believe that any more than I do.”  Katie observed, glancing at the Sam. He shrugged.

"Falcon, Nova…" Hill called through the comms.

"Yeah?" Katie paused, talking as she still remained with her eyes locked on Sam’s.

"Rumlow's headed for the council."

"I’m on it." Sam responded, unzipping his vest and nodding to Katie. “You stay here, he might need you.”

“Roger, oh and Sam…” she called after him. He turned to her, jogging backward “Give Rumlow a kick in the balls for me, really hard.” Sam saluted, grinning, before he turned on his heels.

“Steve…”  Katie spoke in her coms, getting nothing but static.

“I can’t reach him.” Hill said, “And Charlie is still not locked. We're running out of time."

"I'm on it." Katie responded, taking off in the direction of the carrier.

“40% power… “ JARVIS instructed.

“Thanks J, can you run a heat scan, locate Captain Rogers…”

“Located… he is in the central area, near the control room…” JARVIS said, showing her the thermal image of 2 men going toe to toe, her stomach sinking. She surged forwards and flew through the glass of the control room just as Steve and the Winter Soldier fell over the edge of the platform they were fighting on.

They both landed hard but The Winter Soldier got up first, standing over Steve, metal arm gearing up to deliver another blow, but as he went to connect with Steve's face Katie blasted at him, landing in between him and Steve, sending him sprawling backwards.

“Katie…” Steve said, getting to his feet.

“Get to the control panel.” she yelled as the Winter Soldier came charging back at her “We don’t have much time…” As the metal armed assassin lunged at her she shot upwards, flipping in the air and sailing behind him, firing at his back. He flew forward but jumped immediately to his feet and fired his gun at her, the bullets bouncing off her suit. They continued this twisted dance until she got a little too close, and his metal arm gripped tight around her left gauntlet, the squeal of metal on metal rang out as he began to crush down with his fingers.

“Shit…” Katie mumbled, “JARVIS… full power.” “But Miss Stark…”

“Do it!” She fired the suped-up repulsor beams and it caused the winter soldier to fall hard backwards. As she wound up for another shot, she had just sent it his way only to see him pick up Steve’s shield using it to block her ray. It rebounded it straight at her, hitting the suit square in the chest and sending her straight through the glass windows of the carrier into the sky.

It took her a while to right herself, but eventually she flew back inside just as the solider stabbed Steve in the shoulder. Steve yelled, and head butted the man three times, which forced him to let go. As Steve turned to pull the knife from his shoulder Bucky made a grab for the targeting chip and Katie fired at him again, knocking him into one of the metal beams at the back of the carrier, his head making a horrible noise as it connected before he fell face down. Steve wasted no chance in grabbing the discarded chip and heading up to the control panel as she stood between him and the Winter Soldier.

“Systems are seriously compromised…” JARVIS told her. “If you continue using your repulsors the way you are, I fear you won’t have enough power to make it down…” “We’ll worry about that later J.” she said, as she looked up watching Steve

"One minute." Maria Hill spoke and she had barely finished when Katie heard the sound of a gunshot. She turned to see The Winter Soldier getting to his feet looking dazed but his metal arm held his gun aimed up at the control panel where Steve was still climbing. Clearly he was still out of it enough to miss, even a second time as another gunshot went off and Steve let out a yell, gripping at his thigh.

"Thirty seconds!" Maria said urgently.

As the assassin position himself and steady his gun taking aim, Katie flew forward, knocking into him just as he fired. The Winter Soldier landed on his back before Katie stood over him, one foot on his chest, in a last ditch attempt to buy Steve a bit more time. He grabbed at the leg of her suit, pulling it from under her and she crashed to the floor, the man’s metal armed rained blow after blow down on her suit, the glass eye holes cracking.

“Suit integrity is at 50% and falling…”JARVIS said and she did the only thing she could do. She fired her thruster causing her to shoot out from under his hold, colliding with a steel piece of the structure which send her ricocheting out of the side of the hellicarrier.

"Charlie locked." she heard Steve's strained voice as she continued to fall through the air, struggling to fire her boot back up again.

"Okay, get out of there." Maria spoke as Katie continued to plummet, JARVIS also speaking to her saying he was trying to stabilise her tumbling.

"Fire now." Steve demanded.

“NO!” Katie yelled as he boot suddenly kicked to life about 12 foot above the Potomac. She could hear Maria trying to argue too. But Steve wasn’t having any of it.

"Do it now." Steve yelled.

Maria’s sigh was heavy on the comms link but she did as she was told pushing the button that started the helicarriers firing at one another. The ships began to tear each other apart and as more shots hit the one that they were on the inside began to break apart.

“Steve… STEVE!” Katie yelled hovering unsteadily, only being able to use the one thruster. She instructed Jarvis to channel more power into it to keep her upright and then Sam’s frantic voice sounded in her ear.

"Please tell me there's someone in the air!" 

"Sam! Where are you?" Nat’s voice sounded and Katie took a deep breath.

"Forty first floor!" He yelled as he got closer to the window. "Northwest corner!"

"Stay where you are!" Nat instructed as Katie swooped up to find him.

"Not an option!"

Her scanners picked him up and Katie spotted the helicopter Fury was flying a few floors below where it was supposed to be. She flew as fast as she could to grab Sam as he jumped out of the window of the collapsing building, catching him and tossing him into the helicopter flying in herself.

"Forty first floor!" Sam yelled as Katie retracted her helmet "Forty first!"

"It's not like they put the floor numbers on the outside of the building!" Fury yelled back.

"Hill, where's Steve?" Natasha asked. "You got a location on Rogers?"

“He was on Charlie…” Katie said, looking over, swallowing. “That’s the one that hit the building…”

*****

On the carrier Steve had tried to make him remember, just one final time, remember who he was. It didn’t work. The man with Bucky’s face tackled him to the floor and he landed on his back against a fallen bar, head dangling off the edge. He was anchored by the assassin’s legs around his waist and the tight hold of his uniform with his flesh hand. The man looked at him, hatred etched in every line on his face and it broke Steve's heart. What had HYDRA done to him to make him this way? They had turned his friend, his brother, against him and there was nothing he could do but try and remind him of his life before. And then came the blows from the metal arm, raining down on his face.

With every punch that landed, along with the agony, memories flashed across Steve's line of sight – some of them to do with Bucky, bailing him out of a fight in an alley behind a movie theatre. Punch. A Thanksgiving with the Barnes family. Punch. Games of cards in the army camp. Punch. But the ones that came more vividly were of his girl. The way her face scrunched up when she laughed. Punch. The black dress she wore on their first date. Punch. The way they lay tangled in one another after making love, her hand threading through his hair. Punch. The way she looked at him when she thought he wasn't paying attention - like he was the best thing that ever happened to her.

He loved her. He loved her so much it hurt.

"You're my mission!" Bucky screamed out. Steve’s vision was blurry, his face was throbbing in pain; he was beaten, he knew that. But he just wanted Bucky to know how much he meant to him.

"Then finish it." Steve gasped out, pausing in an effort to get his breath back, "Cause I'm with you, till the end of the line."

He could've sworn he saw something in the man’s face shift. His eyes became wider, like he was panicking at the phrase. The metal fist was raised up high, but didn't move from its position. His chest rose and fell rapidly as his eyes softened, just slightly, and the metal arm lowered out of the wind-up. But before he could do anything else, a massive piece of steel from the helicarrier broke off. It crashed against the beam that Steve was up against. And then he was falling, as Bucky managed to hang on to the beam with his metal arm, a sick, twisted reversal of the incident seventy years ago when Steve had watched as Bucky fell into the snowy canyon below.

He plunged into the icy water of the Potomac, the light gradually growing darker, and darker as he sank further into the depth. It was a peaceful way to die, he supposed, after the brutality of the fight. And as his vision went, the last thing he saw was his girl’s face and the fact he was leaving her behind broke him just that little bit more.

I love you Doll, I love you.

*****

Katie engaged her helmet again and took off from the helicopter, flying alongside it for a short while as it circled the outside of the hellicarrier.

“JARVIS, you got anything?” she said, surging forward, but as she spoke her scanners locked onto Steve, where he was lay on the floor of the carrier, the Winter Soldier raining blows upon blows down at him, and he wasn't fighting back.

“What have we got left in the tank?” she asked desperately.

“25% power.”

“Should be enough…” she said, spiralling upwards towards them “Put everything we have into my thrusters.”

“Miss Stark…”

“Just do it…” she yelled.

She felt the power surge as she shot upwards but as she went, her scanners trained on them both, Steve she was hit by something falling from above and was sent crashing down through the floor of the carrier and then her repulsors cut out.

“Emergency back-up power…” JARVIS spoke as her suit fired up again, giving her just enough time to level out before she went head first into the Potomac. She weaved her way through the falling debris under the surface avoiding it before she shot upwards again, but there was no sign of Steve or the Winter Soldier.

“Miss Stark you need to land…”

“Yeah I know…” she said her voice cracking slightly “But I have to find Steve…”

In desperation she circled around the river, “Any sign?” she asked into the coms.

“Nothing.” Hill said “His suit doesn’t have a tracker…”

“Come on…” she mumbled, hovering in mid-air, her suit stuttering slightly. “JARVIS hit the scans again.”

“Running…” he muttered and she watched before the display locked onto him. He was quarter of a mile or so out from the Triskellion…and the Winter Soldier was pulling him out of the water onto the river bank.

With her last bit of remaining power she flew to them, landing behind the Winter Soldier. He immediately spun round but this time Katie saw fear in his eyes. They weren’t steely or dead like they had been before, instead they sparkled with emotion. For that reason she took a deep breath and stepped out of her suit, hands held up in a conciliatory manner.

“Bucky…” she spoke gently, glancing behind him to where Steve lay motionless on the bank. She bit back the panic in her throat at the site of him hurt and unconscious before she focussed on the man in front of her.

“Who are you?” his voice was deep and he looked at her. This was good, he wasn’t attacking. Taking a shaky breath she took one step forward and he instantly grew defensive and she stopped, shaking her head.

“It’s ok, my name’s Katie…I’m Steve’s girlfriend. You know Steve, right?”

His chest heaved, his eyes widened and for a split second she thought he was going to come towards her. Instead he stood to the side letting her get a full view of her man before nodding towards her.

"Get help." He said to her gruffly before turning and running.

“I’ve got him…” Katie spoke into her coms as she scrambled over to Steve, stumbling as she ran “South West bank, clearing in the trees…look for the sign…”

At that she shouted to JARVIS  “Supernova Protocol…” before she dropped to her knees next to Steve, hearing her suit shoot upwards before it exploded with a bang. Her heart stopped for a second as she looked down at her man, letting out a sob as she noticed his chest was rising and falling slowly, the only sign he was alive. His face was badly beaten, his right eye almost completely closed. There was the knife wound on his shoulder, several deep cuts to his face, but it was the gunshot wound to the middle of his abdomen that worried her most. It was bleeding heavily. She pressed one hand to the wound to stem, her other stroking his battered face…

*****

Steve realised he wasn’t dead. He felt like it, god the pain, but there was a familiar voice, a familiar touch, one heavy on his abdomen, the other stroking his sore, battered face.

“Shh…its’ ok” she said. It was her. He tried to speak but she shushed him, “Baby I’m here.”

“Katie…” he opened his eyes, looking at her, those beautiful green eyes, and he realised he wasn’t ready to go. He didn’t want to go, not when she was here. The thought of leaving her behind, when they had so much to look forward to, a future, made him start to panic.

“You’re going to be fine…” she said. He believed her, but man he was so tired, and the pain. His eyes shut.

******

Katie sat back, hand still pressed to the wound and looked across the Potomac. Pieces of the helicarrier were still falling, splashing into the river. She had no idea how long she waited, it can’t have actually been that long, but it felt like ages as she simply sat, hand clamped over Steve’s abdomen, listening to the sirens ringing loud through the air as emergency responders got closer. In an odd way, it was all proof they had won. But at what cost? 

She heard footsteps behind her and instantly wheeled to see Fury stood barking orders to 4 men following him with a stretcher, but she couldn’t really hear him. She stood up, moved back, in somewhat of a daze, to allow them access to Steve but once he was loaded onto the gurney she moved back to his side, taking his hand.

They emerged from the bank, and another medic made to drop a blanket round her, but she shrugged him off, her hand still round Steve’s until she had to let go as they loaded him into the ambulance which was parked in the clearing near the chopper.

“He’s gonna be fine…” Sam said as he appeared besides her, dropping an arm round her shoulders as she watched them anchor the stretcher in place. The paramedic inside the ambulance gestured to her, and she climbed in without so much as a glance back.

Tags

@the-omni-princess

@momobaby227

@geekofmanythings 16

[epicstuckyficrecs]

Stucky Christmas Fic Compilation!

Happy holidays everybody! Here comes a little Christmas Eve special just for you ;) Tomorrow I’m posting another fic compilation for Christmas, but a special 2018 edition! :D

Princess Perfect Pony Palace by 74days (3K)

It's Christmas Eve and Natasha's daughter has just admitted to her parents that she asked Santa for a Princess Perfect Pony Palace. Which is currently out of stock in every store within 50 miles. It's time for Uncle Bucky to step up and deliver the most wanted gift of the season - he just didn't think he'd have to fight a hot blond for it.

All Mixed Up by Brenda (4K)

Oh God, she was probably someone's wife or mother or something and he'd just made things ten times more awkward and – "Oh, I didn't mean – I mean, I didn't mean it like that, I just thought –"

Then a large, masculine, warm hand slid into his, and a low, very male voice said: "Nat, you love new friends, don't be rude."

"James, really?"

"Yes, really." The hand in Steve's gently tugged. "C'mon, I'll buy you a coffee; you can be friends with me instead."

Part 1 of The Last Boyfriend (12K)

Merry Christmas Punk by cleo4u2 (7K)

The Howling Commandos plan a Christmas present for their Captain. It's not at all what Steve expected, but it's everything he ever wanted.

All This Time by InterruptingDinosaur (8K)

Bucky can’t wait for the holiday season to be over. December only brings more students into the library which means more shelving work for him. However, when someone starts leaving Bucky gifts, he starts to change his mind.

All I Want For Christmas Has Been You for More Than Seventy Yearsby Kellyscams (9K)

It's Bucky's first Christmas back with Steve in 70 years, just a year since he's come to live with him and the Avengers. Steve's taking him away from the city for the occasion. Bucky assumes it's for his own safety; just in case the hustle and bustle of the New York Christmas Season triggers some of the Winter Soldier tendencies he's been fighting and learning to overcome.

Bucky doesn't mean to take this impromptu trip personally. Doesn't want to be upset. But he's recently recalled and redeveloped his feelings for Steve. Feelings he never shared with him. Feelings he has no idea if Steve shares, so being alone with his super soldier buddy might not be something he's ready for. Only Steve's reasons for taking Bucky away might not be so black and white--or red and green as it may be.

Christmas songs, snowball fights, ugly Christmas sweaters, confessions, and Bucky wrapped up in Christmas lights.

whose arms will hold you by biblionerd07 (10K)

Steve needs a ride home for Christmas. Bucky needs a passenger.

Not the Same River at my Fingertips by giselleslash (11K)

Steve desperately needs a ride home for Christmas but the last person he wants to take help from is Bucky Barnes. There’s a one night stand gone badly and four years of hurt feelings and misunderstandings between them.

Of course there's a road trip home that goes perfectly smoothly.

Bucky Barnes Has His Shit Together (and Other Lies He Tells Himself) by betts (14K)

You’d think a guy who owns one of the most successful bakeries in Brooklyn, has a million-dollar smile and that antiquated good ol’ boy charm, blond hair and blue eyes and biceps for days, would know what’s what.

But don’t let that fool you: Steve Rogers is a mess.

The Right Time by wearing_tearing (16K)

“So let me see if I got this right,” Bucky says, gaze focused on Steve. “You want to fake date me.”

“No,” Steve shakes his head, and then corrects him, “I want us to pretend to be engaged.”

Let your heart be light by relenafanel (21K)

Bucky looks like he’s had a difficult month, what with the eviction notice and all, but that’s not the reason Steve gives for allowing him to stay on his couch.

“You have somewhere to go?” Steve questioned, crossing his arms and attempting to look casual, not like he was worried for Bucky. He stepped into the apartment, ignoring how bare it was.

Bucky paused and gave him an exasperated look. “I’m not completely hopeless.”

A fic spanning from mid-November to early-February.

Beneath the Mistletoe by sunrow (21K)

Bucky had a bet with his sister that if he didn’t have a boyfriend to bring home for Christmas by the time he was 25, he had to give her $200 and go blonde for a year. But now he's 25, it’s nearing December, and not only is Bucky as single as ever, but he’s also running low on cash. He doesn’t exactly want to bleach his hair, either.

At least Steve is willing to upgrade their relationship from best friends to fake boyfriends.

It's the Best Time of the Year by chicklette (40K)

Steve's finally figured this whole Captain America thing out: He's got a place in Brooklyn, a couple of good friends, and a mild crush on the hot barista at his favorite coffee shop. So what if he never talks to the guy. It's not like he's actually lonely, right? Right.

All Those Things You've Always Pined For by LavenderProse (92K)

“Steve Rogers. I haven’t thought about him in…God, at least ten years. Probably longer." “Who is he?” Sharon asks, and perches on the corner of his desk, hands folded in her lap. “You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Bucky clears his throat, tosses the sticky note onto the desk. “Steve was…my college boyfriend. We almost got married.”

It's been fifteen years since Bucky Barnes left Steve Rogers standing in a New York airport and never saw him again. Those fifteen years have brought him wealth and stability; everything his lower middle class Brooklyn upbringing had not provided. He is happy. He doesn't want for anything. He doesn't need anything. That's about to change.

Coming Home For Christmas by Chiyume (118K)

Steve Rogers is a good man. His friends have told him so on numerous occasions, but this might actually be more bordering on "stupid" rather than "kind". Because what else would you describe the act of inviting a complete stranger - and thief - into your home over the Holidays? Steve isn't quite sure what to call it himself, but fact is that when it comes to the case of Bucky Barnes, Steve's actually pretty okay with being referred to as an idiot, as long as it keep the other man safe. And to Steve's defence, it had all started out with such good intentions...

[rai-wick]

Dance like nobody’s watching.

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Summary: There is a gala in honour of the Avengers. All attended this ball, including a certain dark haired Sergeant who thought it would be dull until you came along.

Emotional Range: Flirting, Jealousy and Feelings

Warnings: None

Word count: 1435 words

“C’mon Buck, lighten up”Steve nudged him with his shoulder as Bucky sighed.

“You know I dislike parties”.Steve had dragged him to this gala with all these people who he didn’t know and was forced to interact with. Bucky decided he would instead spend his time finishing the bar’s supply of alcohol. 

“You hadn’t left the compound in a week”Steve leaned against the counter”You need to get out there more”

“Yeah, because everyone is so thrilled to meet me”He scoffed, bringing his drink to his lips.

“Buc-”

“I don’t know why I’m even here Steve, you’re everyone’s favourite”He muttered, staring down into his glass. There was break in the chatter making the two of them look up. Y/N had just arrived, your ____ eyes searching as you gazed around around the room, locking onto Bucky’s blue orbs. You began to make your way over, parting through crowd, a small smirk playing on your lips. You had your ____ hair styled and wore a long black dress (BELOW).. Bucky swallowed deeply as he took in your appearance, you looked like the epitome of elegance and beauty.

“Seems like I’m not everyone’s favourite”Steve chuckled as you approached ”Hello Y/N”

“Hi Steve, Hi Bucky”You greeted as you sat down at the bar. You signaled for a bourbon before turning to the duo “Well looks like you managed to get Bucky to shower AND leave his room. Steve, I’m impressed” Bucky rolled his eyes as the two of you chuckled. 

“Hilarious”He muttered.

“Hey Cap!”They turned to see Tony waving Steve over.

“Excuse me”He turned and walked over to Tony leaving Bucky and you alone.

“So you clean up pretty well” You giggled “You look great”You gave him a once over, taking in his black leather jacket with black trousers paired with a white button up that had the first few buttons undone, his dark hair tied back in a loose ponytail, and winked.

“Speak for yourself. You look radiant, Doll”He chuckled. You tried to ignore the blush creeping on your cheeks and the butterflies in your stomach that rose at his compliment.

“Aren’t you a sweetheart?” You pinched his cheek lightly, giggling as he winced.”By the way, where’s Sam?”You asked while sipping your drink.

“He went looking for some receptionist girl at his center”

“Jess? Good, it’s about time they got together” 

“Here you madam”The bartender arrived with two shots of whiskey”Courtesy of a mystery gentlemen”

“Oh. Tell him his gesture is appreciated” Bucky frowned as you smiled and accepted the drinks.

“I bet it’s poisoned”He muttered making you roll your eyes.

“Killjoy”You held one out to him “Take a shot with me”

“Fine”He took one off you.

“Cheers”You lightly tapped your glasses together and drank up “Wow! That’s strong” You winced at the taste making Bucky laugh.

“Can’t handle your liquor?”He smirked.

“Says the guy who can’t get drunk due to a special injection" You raised an eyebrow at him.

“Touché” He grinned and stood up “I have to use the restroom” You nodded as he walked away. You ordered another drink and turned back to watch the party. You smiled to yourself as you watched everyone enjoying themselves. Nat and Bruce were chatting at a table, oblivious to everyone around them. Tony and Steve were bickering like an old married couple with Rhodey holding back laughter, Wanda and Vision were dancing to the soft melodies played by the band. Clint waved to you from where he was with his wife Laura who was talking to Thor and Coulson.

“Hey sweetheart” You turned to the man who had approached you. 

“Hello” You politely smiled as the man sat down in Bucky’s seat “May I help you?”

“I was just wondering how a lady as beautiful as you, is all alone here”

“Well, I happen to like solitary”You sipped your drink as the man’s eyes falling down to your cleavage. You felt your face redden as the man licked his lips. 

Bucky ran a hand through his hair as he came back into the ballroom. He saw Y/N talking to man at the bar however you looked uncomfortable. Bucky felt anger flare inside him as he walked towards them. As he came closer, he saw the man’s gaze was on your chest which would explain your uncomfortable expression. 

“So how about a dance?”

‘How about no’ You thought ‘Creep’.

“I’m sorry but this lovely lady is already taken for a dance”Bucky interjected, his metal arm wrapping protectively around you. You couldn’t help but smile as Bucky pulled you closer to his hardened chest “So just run along please”The man took one look at his prosthetic arm, turned and left. You laughed, turning and facing Bucky.

“What a creep”Bucky muttered, his arm still around you.

"Thank you Bucky, you're my hero" You softly kissed his cheek making his cheeks tinge pink.

"Anytime Doll" He smiled back, letting go of you.You looked around before turning back to him.

"Do you want to ditch this gala and go for walk?"

"God yes" He nodded gratefully and the two of you made your way outside. It was chilly outside and you rubbed your arms in regret. Bucky pulled off his jacket and drooped it around your shoulders "Don't want you to die of pneumonia"You smiled gratefully.

"What about you?"

"What about me?"

"Aren't you cold?" You asked as the two of you walked.

"I don't get cold easily, Winter Soldier remember?" He said it with a hint of anger which ebbed away as you laughed, pulling the jacket closer. He chuckled, wrapping his arm around your shoulders. You smiled up at him, he was so handsome in the crisp night. The air nipped at his round lips and cheeks making them rosy pink. You looked down as you felt a blush appear.

"Thanks Bucky" He smiled at how perfectly you said his name as if it was made for you to say it. He stared at you out of the corner of his eye, enthralled by your beauty. You leaned your head on his shoulder as the two of you walked along. You approached the park where there was music playing. You turned and faced Bucky.

"I still owe you a dance" You shyly told which made him blush and scratch the back of his neck.

"You don't have to Y/N"

"I want to" You wore his jacket and pulled him towards the deserted area"C'mon, it's just you and me. We can literally dance like nobody is watching" Your enthusiasm made him chuckle and nod in agreement.

You faced each other and you took his metal hand into your flesh one, holding it tightly, both of you blushing. Bucky placed his other hand on your shoulder making you giggle and pressed his hand to your waist.

"I don't bite"

"I know you don't but I don't want to hurt you" He nervously said.

"You won't" You smiled softly at him. Closing your eyes, you leaned your head on his chest.

Bucky felt his heart hammering as you leaned against him. He didn't know why but the fact that your body was pressed up right against him made him nervous. Normally he could keep a conversation with you but for the last few weeks Bucky's heart would pound in his chest whenever you were close. His feelings about you made him lost, however tonight Bucky knew what he wanted. He spun you around before lowering you to the ground as the song ended. The two of you stared at each other as he held you in his arms. You slowly leaned in towards Bucky and he did the same. Bucky felt as if his heart would jump out of his chest. Your eyes fluttered close as his soft lips met yours. You slipped your arms around his neck. You broke apart for air, both of you breathless.

“I’ve wanted to do that for so long”Bucky whispered”You have no idea how crazy you’ve been driving me Y/N. Just the thought of you would make me weak in the knees”He cupped your face, feeling nervous as he poured his heart out to you”I don’t have much to offer you, I’m not rich like Tony, a hero like Steve or even fully stable but I can give you my heart and for you alone. If you wish to take it”You could see the tears in his eyes. You knew he was the most vulnerable right now. You tucked a strand of hair behind his ear.

“You’re all I want Bucky”You both smiled”You’re all I need”And with that, you kissed him again, your futures slowly tying themselves together.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This is an original story written by Rai Wick.

[wndamaximov]

The New Recruit

Part 3

Pairing - peter x  shuri x indian!reader(platonic), dad!bucky x indian!reader

Summary - Y/n is starting to feel a little desperate to find Shiva and with the rest of the Avengers clueless as to her whereabouts, she decides to take matters into her own hands.

Warnings - Language, angst, fluff

Words - 1,053

<< prev chapter

She hadn’t talked in days. Any progress that Bucky, Loki, Peter, and Shuri made in taking down her walls was undone, leaving her in a pit of self-despair. No matter how hard she tried, she would never be able to escape her past- and that terrified her.

There was a slight knock on the door. “Y/n? It’s Shuri. I am coming in.” Y/n didn’t move from her spot on her little nest of blankets. She was surrounded by the things that made her happy- her phone, headphones, one of Bucky’s too big shirts, and a pack of m&m’s. Shuri came and sat down next to her, careful not to disturb the arrangement of items on her bed.

“You don’t have to talk back, but can I tell you about my day?” Y/n didn’t respond, but Shuri knew she was listening. As she talked, y/n payed attention to every last detail, hanging onto every word.

There was a brief pause in Shuri’s narration and y/n seized the chance to finally speak out loud. “Shuri?” her voice came out small and raspy, as expected when one hasn’t used it in a long time. Shuri looked surprised at first, but then her gaze softened and she smiled for the girl to go ahead. “May you, I mean can you pass that water bottle?” She acquiesced and waited patiently as y/n took a delicate sip.

“Shiva used to be my best friend.” She took a deep breath in and out to remind herself that she was safe.

“Y/n you don’t have to talk, you don’t owe anyone anything,” Shuri reminded, her voice full of worry.

“Yes I do, that’s the problem. The last time I saw her, she warned me that I would never truly be able to leave, and I didn’t take her seriously. All the damage that has been done to so many innocent lives is because of me.” Y/n got up from the bed and opened the window, bathing the room with a pale yellow light. “I’ve made up my mind.”

Shuri came up behind her and put her hand on her shoulder. “No.”

“You can’t stop-”

“I’m not trying to,” she interrupted. “You have no information on where Shiva is, and even if you did what kind of friend would I be if I let you go all alone?”

“Yeah, what kind of friend would we be if we let you go alone?” The two girls jumped as they saw Peter suddenly appear behind them.

“Sorry,” he rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. “The door was open, so I thought I could-” he was immediately cut off by Shuri whacking him on the arm. “Ow, that hurt!”

“Don’t do that, idiot!” she exclaimed angrily as y/n burst out laughing at the exchange.

“Now,” Shuri said, after glaring at Peter for the longest time, “let’s go get this bread.”

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾　　☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙

The rest of the Avengers sat around the table in the kitchen, back from their latest skirmish in Kashmir. They’d suffered a devastating loss of 10 human lives, and people around the world were calling for some form of action against the team.

“Well,” Loki commented, “that went terribly.”

“Brother, maybe now’s not the time.”

“No I think it is. I mean, Reindeer Games isn’t wrong,” Tony interjected.

“We need to get to this Shiva before she causes any or damage, Tony. We’ll worry about the rest of the world later. Lives are at stake,” Steve added sternly.

“And what if we’re the ones putting them at stake Cap?”

“Really boys? Now?”

“I agree with Nat,”  Bruce replied then continued, “we need to get to the bottom of this without any shit, agreed?”

The rest of the Avengers merely nodded, complacent for now.

“Good. C’mon Tony, let’s go work on that algorithm to find Shiva again.”

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾　　☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙

“I think I’ve got a lock on her coordinates!” Shuri pulled Peter and y/n into her portable lab just outside the compound. “When do you wish to leave y/n?”

“How does now sound?” Peter and Shuri gave their approval, and the trio went off to prepare for their escape.

As y/n walked to her room she caught a glimpse of Bucky. The Winter Soldier was startled by a bundle of clothes slamming into him for a hug. “You’re back!” She clung to him and he held her close.

“Don’t worry, I got you,” he consoled, stroking her hair and planting a kiss on the top of her head.

“Thank you,” she whispered letting go of the man who had become a bit like her father, then left guiltily to go pack her bags.

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾　　☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙

"Peter?" Tony called, searching for the spider-boy. He peered into y/n's room and was met with Bucky standing alone in the room, holding one of the shirts y/n had copped from him.

Not two seconds later, T’challa came walking down the hall asking, “Have either of you seen Shuri?”

"I'm starting to sense a pattern, Stark."

"Me too Barnes. I'm gonna kill them." Tony stomped off to gather the rest of the team. He was simultaneously proud and angry, if that was possible. Those teenagers had done exactly what he would've done in their place. Damn his terrible influence.

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾　　☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙ '

Y/n, Peter, and Shuri found themselves in the lovely Budapest. They had traveled all around the beautiful city without a trace of Shiva or anyone else y/n recognized. After hours of searching, they’d decided to take a break to sit around a table at one of the many roadside cafe's.

"I still don't understand where my calculations could have gone wrong," Shuri said dejectedly while working it out on a napkin ignoring the now-cold coffee in front of her.

"It's okay Shuri. Everyone messes up," y/n reassured, picking at the Hungarian delicacy in front of her. Peter was the only one enjoying himself, delightfully tearing at the pastry given to him

"Wait, I got it!" Shuri screamed, jumping out of her seat. "C'mon!" She dragged the both of them away from the table and signalled for one of the taxis to pull over. "This time I'm sure I'm right."

And right she was. Not that there was much to see at their destination- just an abandoned warehouse with a great big hydra painted on the outside.

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾　　☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙ '

>> next chapter

Angels: @jim-the-fallen-fan @ms-mischief221b @someonebeatmeatthisname @spidergirl2017 @marvel-is-a-mood

If you want to be tagged in The New Recruit, just ask!

[steverogersbrooklynbabe]

Clubbing (A hint of SMUT)

Gifs not mine ——> Credit to the owner

Summary: Is (Y/N) 25th birthday and she wants to spend it getting frisky on the hottest club with her best friends and a special winter soldier who has her heart but maybe that will be over...

Requests open Masterlist

“C’mon Steve please The Host is the hottest club right now and I want to spend my birthday in there! I beg Steve as he is arranging some mission report

"I thought you didn't like partying (Y/N)" 

"And I don't but clubbing is different, you can let loose without a care in the world because no one knows you! Even better no one recognizes you as an Avenger and you can drink, dance and even hook up with somebody" I give a soft nudge to Steve and he laughs at me

"Okay okay, I'll tell Tony to make a reservation for your birthday and I'll inform the team happy now doll?" I nod as I run to hug him

"Thank you, Steve, you are the best!”

"Now help me order these reports by alphabetic order please"

Friday is finally here meaning my birthday, the team went full on me giving me the best breakfast and then Bucky surprise me with a beautiful picnic down in Central Park in a little spot we use to take a break when we finish our daily run. Bucky and I are not in an official relationship and feelings have never been spoken between us but we've fooled around for a few months meaning some flirting in there, some innocent touching like holding hands, kisses on the cheek and some cuddling when we are seeing a movie but more than that nothing had happened. When I've tried to talk with him he seems to avoid the topic but I'm getting tired of it. Recently I've noticed that some agents had been a little bit friendlier than usual with some lingering touches that can be considered more than friendly ones, even one named Grant started to call me his doll even knowing that was Buck's nickname for me and when he thinks I'm not watching while we train I've caught him looking at my ass or boobs. I know it might be not romantic and he is not ready to be in a serious relationship but he is attractive so I'm sure if Bucky doesn't feel the same thing about me he wouldn't have a problem if I hook up with someone.

My thoughts get interrupted by a knock on my door and as I signal the person behind it to enter Natasha's voice makes me turn around

"Damn. You. Bitch! You look fucking sexy (Y/N)! Let me tell you, if you wanted to impress Barnes he will not be the only one trying to make you lose your panties!" I laugh at Nat words as I finish making my make-up and fixing my dress. It was a very sexy dress I've never thought to wear but as I said it before tonight is my night and I will completely let loose. 

"Thank you, Nat, c'mon let's go, the girls must be impatiently waiting for us!"

"Yeah c'mon grab your bag! The boys are already at the club" :::: When we arrive at the club I'm already a little tipsy thanks to the girls giving me shot after shot of tequila during the ride on the limousine. One of the workers take us to the VIP section because Tony rent it for us to be even more exclusive, as we get to the table where the boys are already enjoying a bottle of whiskey everyone eyes turn to look at us but they linger on me considering they had never seen me dressed as sexy as I was today and all dolled up with my flat hair and full makeup-faced. Their mouths are wide open and I can feel their eyes lingering on my cleavage making them drool and I can even see Bucky trying to fix his pants earning a laugh from me. Then everyone stands up to congratulate me, well everyone except Bucky. Heck, even Peter talks with me! After the congratulations, Tony asks some bottles of champagne and the best tequila in the house and I decide to settle myself between Bucky and Steve. The blonde super soldier quickly engulfs with me on a chat but I notice how his eyes drift from the conversation to the sexy cleavage of my dress and on the other side Bucky only takes sips of his drink without even making any slight talk with me. As the tequila shots keep on coming I start to gain more confidence.

"Wanna dance Barnes?" He looks at me as if I was crazy too concentrated on listening to the obscene lyrics the current singer was telling in her song

"How do you dance that?" Steve turns to look at him and they start to talk about how shocked they are to the lyrics earning a laugh from the team but hey! I want to let loose! I stand up from my place gaining some questioning look from the super soldiers and I take Natasha hand leading her towards the dance floor as Wanda follow us.

We quickly start sexily dancing again each other gaining some male attention and without noticing there are a lot of men trying to dance with me, I start grinding again some guy when I listen to someone calling my name and when I turn around Grant is already taking my hips and grinding against me, fuck it if Barnes hadn't even talked to me in this sexy dress he wouldn't care if I'm with Grant

"You look so sexy (Y/N), never knew you could be this frisky" I can feel his erection on my ass and I was about to turn around to kiss him one punch sends him to the floor

"You stay away from her douchebag!" I instantly froze as I see Bucky with an angry face and ready to fight Grant who was trying to stand up "Stop touching my girl!" What? His girl?

"Are you girlfriend of the fucking winter soldier?! You slut you were just teasing me for what? Does it make you cum-" Before Grant finishes Bucky takes him by the neck of his shirt and starts throwing punches but I take him by his arm trying to stop him before it's too late

"C'mon Buck let him go c'mon Buck let's go to another part!" At my pleas, his eyes turn to look at me and they soften at my shocked expression. He takes my arm leading me to one of the VIP parts where no one is and I search for the team I can see them dancing on the dance floor unaware of what happened but Tony talking with some of the guards probably arranging everything so it wouldn't be on the press tomorrow.

"Are you okay? Did that prick put a hand on you?" At his words, I remember I was mad at him, first he ignores me and then he acts like my boyfriend when I was enjoying my time with Grant and was hoping for more.

"I'm more than okay Bucky the answer is what the fuck is wrong with you? Are you okay boyfriend of mine!?" He gets shocked at my sudden outburst

"So are you really telling me you were okay with that douchebag trying to fuck you? C'mon (Y/N) I thought you and I had something!"

"Oh, so that's why you didn't even tell me a hi when I arrived Bucky?" He blushes "I'm sick of your games Bucky! You treat me like your girl but every time I try to take the next step you take it back and I'm so tired, tonight I just wanted to let loose and you know what! Grant sees me as a sexy girl, he always flirts with me and tries to take me on a date so yeah I was hoping to fuck with him considering you wouldn't even tell me the hour!" Right after my rant, Bucky takes my ass in his hand pulling me against the wall lifting me.

"You are my girl (Y/N) and I always see you, as the sweet, the nasty, the fighter, the avenger, the normal girl and the sexiest girl I could ever have" He kisses me and a battle for dominance starts.

"Take me Bucky Barnes" I surround his waist with my legs and he walks us towards one of the private rooms I'm sure Tony arranged for the night.

"Oh doll, you will regret ever thinking of fucking another man"He opens the door and quickly closes it when we are inside making us forget about everyone else. He throws me with force but yet cautious to the bed and his blue baby eyes had transformed into a sea blue clouded with lust.

"That cleavage doll you are making go crazy since you arrived showing off everyone what's mine that’s why I couldn’t even talk, I would have take you right in front of everyone" I take him by his belt pulling him closer so he is now over me as I play with his belt and I positioned my hand over his bulge rubbing it feeling how it hardens by my movements. 

"I didn't know I was yours, Barnes. I thought I was just a game for you" He attacks my neck with kisses that I'm sure are going to leave marks tomorrow and starts moving his mouth down my body stopping at my cleavage.

"You are mine doll and I'm totally yours... I'll make you never forget" Yeah definitely, this night was getting friskier and with the boy, I want to do this and everything in the world.

[tahlreth]

Are you still doing prompt requests? If so, post CW prompt for you: Steve learns that Bucky got transferred to Tony's care [willingly to get help] and when Steve returns after signing the accords Steve thinks that his and Tony's relationship is just going to pick up again, but Tony and Bucky are in a relationship now and Bucky is not too fond of the old Avengers and the bull they used to put Tony through and he's not having it happen again on his watch. And the Winter Soldier is very protective

AN: Only took me for fucking ever, but I finally did the thing. I’ve started about six different versions, and this one was sitting on my computer, half done, for like three months. ^.^; But I’m reasonably happy with how it came out, so there’s that. XD It got pretty long, so do beware the cut!

They hadn’t been anything - not officially, not really. There’d been looks, touches, smiles… all kinds of little things that meant they’d been on the same page. They’d never talked about it, hadn’t kissed or declared their feelings openly, but there’d been something there. Steve had known it since he’d felt relief, hot and bright and real burning inside of him after that first fight in New York, when (thank God thank God thank God) Tony wasn’t dead after all. The smile that had crawled over Steve’s face when he saw Tony jolt awake after the Hulk’s roar felt like he first smile that had been on his face since… since Bucky fell. Tony was loud and flashy, all the worst bits of this ‘modern’ time combined into one in-your-face package. On him though, Steve liked the look. He’d thought about trying to get to know Tony right away, had almost been brave enough to just ask him out for dinner or coffee or something, but then…

Then Tony had smiled at him, and the expression was so soft. It was warm and patient, and Steve had just known that Tony would wait for him. He could go see this new America to try and wrap his head around it, and Tony would be in New York City when he got back. When they shook goodbye, both their hands lingered far longer than they’d needed to. The air between them had been charged, and he’d almost changed his mind again until Tony had quietly said 'enjoy yourself, Cap - come tell me all about your road trip when it’s done’. Tony would be waiting for him so he knew he really could go.

He didn’t blame Tony for leaving for Malibu after Steve agreed to temporarily move to DC when Fury asked. Tony’s company was important - they were both working hard, but they still saw each other when they could. Those not-quite-dates were some of the things Steve cherished most about the brave new world he found himself in. At the end of them, Tony would always make a mention of how he’d be waiting for Steve. Nothing explicit, nothing that specifically said they were going to end up together, but they’d both had known what it meant. It was almost better than a kiss to say goodbye before they had the time to really be something to each other.

Yeah, maybe he’d flirted a little with the blonde who turned out to be part of SHIELD. And maybe Tony had seemed genuinely hurt by the way Steve hadn’t asked for his assistance, but none of it meant anything. He was glad Tony was alright after his brush with the Mandarin… and he was also glad Tony hadn’t tried to call him in. Steve would have dropped everything to go help out - he was sure he would have - but having to decide between the man who was waiting for him and the Strike team that he’d thought needed him would have been uncomfortable.

Tony was so good at making sure Steve was comfortable.

Having to choose Bucky over Tony had cut like a knife to the heart, but he’d done it. He’d known that once Tony cooled down, he’d realize that Steve still cared. It was just that Tony would wait and Bucky couldn’t. Once he got his best friend’s head on straight, Steve vowed to himself that he’d go to the guy who he’d left standing in the wings for so long. Lingering looks and hands that slid down his arm in subtle caresses weren’t enough any more. Almost losing Tony had forced him to resort his priorities - SHIELD was gone and Bucky was safe. Sharon was swell and all, but he’d kissed her more because he’d been hurting over Peggy than anything.

Peggy had waited for him too, though maybe not as long as Tony had. She’d known he wasn’t coming back, after all, and Tony knew (surely he knew) that Steve would always return. Sharon had just been there, available and willing, and Steve had just needed someone. His guy wouldn’t begrudge him that. Not when they’d been so close to being something, not when Steve was finally able to take that final step to turn 'waiting’ into 'having’.

The way Tony sent for Bucky so he could help Steve’s best friend only proved that. He was willing to help a man who’d been brainwashed into killing his parents because it was important to Steve. It was an admission that he’d been wrong to get so upset in Siberia. He was letting Steve know that he’d taken his letter to heart, had realized that Steve was right, and was ready to take steps towards getting back together. Or getting together for the first time, really, at least in a romantic sense.

As soon as he got to go home, Steve was going to claim his guy. Tony had waited for him long enough.

~.~.~

“-might come straight here, James. We really should stop–”

“C'mon, Tony. We don’t have anything to hide. We don’t gotta stop being us just because they’re back.”

Steve had stopped cold at the sound of Bucky’s voice, mostly because it was coming from inside Tony’s workshop. FRIDAY had refused to tell him that’s where Tony was, but he hadn’t really needed the AI to tell him. When he hadn’t been there to greet the returning Avengers (a woman named Danvers had instead, looking grim and serious and like she packed a whallop), Steve had assumed he’d been busy. Maybe it wasn’t the best choice he could have made, but Tony had always had a way of getting lost in his inventions at the worst times. So while Steve was a bit irritated, he was also feeling kind of fond of the genius. He’d even been thinking that maybe he really should have gotten flowers to bring. Nat had sounded more scathing than serious when she’d given the suggestion, but maybe he still should have followed it.

So he hadn’t been surprised to hear Tony in his workshop; what he had been surprised by was the presence of some guy named 'James’. He didn’t even connect that to Bucky until he’d heard his best friend speak - hearing him talking to Tony was extremely jarring and kind of upsetting. Steve hadn’t been upset at all not to see Tony when he stepped back onto the compound’s soil - he’d just figured that Buck wasn’t ready to be around so many people. But now… now it seemed like they’d been together and had maybe intentionally skipped his homecoming. He felt his stomach sink and a cold ball of hurt curl up in his chest - his best friend and his guy hadn’t been there to welcome him back.

But maybe they’d been working on Bucky’s arm, he tried to tell himself - not that it was really working. Maybe some kind of maintenance had been needed, and they’d had to do it just then. Tony and Buck were working together on his arm or Buck’s mental state - that’s why they were an 'us’.

Steve needed that to be why they were an 'us’.

“Listen, Cold Snap,” Tony sounded amused despite the command in his words, and something in Steve was aching even if he didn’t know exactly why. “I’m not saying we have to go into hiding or pretend we’re just friends or anything like that.” 'Just friends’… that could mean anything. Anything at all. Maybe they were… were best friends, which would hurt but be bearable. He could understand that even if he didn’t like it. Or maybe they were bitter enemies? It didn’t sound like it, but… but they could be. They weren’t… Tony had been waiting for him. “What I am saying is that maybe we don’t rub it in anyone’s face before they’ve settled in.”

“'N I’m vetoing that, so.”

“You don’t just get to veto things, my darling snow bunny. That’s not how this works.”

“Prove it,” his best friend countered, making Steve’s heart sink to about the level of his shoes. That was Bucky’s playful, flirty tone of voice - he wouldn’t use that on a bitter enemy or a new best friend. He oughta turn the last corner and let them know he was there. He should barge in and demand they explain themselves. Steve should go and ask Tony why he’d stopped waiting, why he’d started ignoring the 'something’ that was between them, and why the fuck he’d dragged Bucky into the middle of it. “When it comes to dumb decisions you’re about ta make, I get veto power. You get veto power when I’m bein’ dumb. ’S fair.”

“Ugh. If you say so, Cold Snap. Veto powers all around. So… to clarify. We’re gonna just–”

“Keep cuddling on the couch for movies, keep bitching fondly at each other when we’re in charge of cooking dinner, and go right on kissing whenever the hell we feel like it.”

Steve hadn’t fainted for anything other than injury-related reasons since the serum, but he still recognized the warning signs when they hit him. His vision tunneled as tingles cold enough to hurt shot through his limbs. Everything sounded distant, the world falling away and leaving him reeling. He didn’t realize that last bit was literal until he slammed into the wall and went down hard, didn’t realize he was gasping for air until he was dangerously close to passing out. He fought his lungs and emotions, doing his best to take deep, even breaths - he was not going to faint. This had to be… it was a misunderstanding. Maybe… maybe FRIDAY had told them he was coming and they were playing a prank. Maybe his world wasn’t really crumbling under his feet.

The fact that neither of them had come running when he’d fallen undermined that theory though. And why hadn’t they? If Steve could hear them, then they had to have heard him. Unless… FRIDAY had been incredibly curt with him, bordering on rude. Maybe she’d piped the conversation from the closed workshop to where Steve was, just to hurt him. He shouldn’t be so surprised that another of Tony’s AIs was kind of evil.

“-go up for dinner,” he heard when he managed to zone back in to the conversation. “I think it’s Rhodey’s turn to cook, so it’s going to be amazing. Especially if Hope helps, since she’s a lot better with vegetables and other junk like that. My sour patch can make a mean piece of meat - stop giggling, fuck, are you twelve? - and he’s great with baking, but vegetables defeat him. To the point where it’s embarrassing. He cried over some zucchini once. I mean, it was right before this girl that he looooooved was coming over for dinner and it was finals week - which was a lot of fun at MIT in the engineering department, let me tell you. A lot of people cried. I never did, but that was mostly because I was drunk or high pretty much twenty-four-seven. Finals are pretty much a non-issue when you’re that fucked up. Still aced all of them though, because I am a genius. Anyway, Rhodey wasn’t as blissfully transcended from this mortal coil as I was, so he was freaking the fuck out about passing his finals. So I guess it was more than the zucchini that made him cry, but still. Ever since then he’s pretty much avoided vegetables like the plague. Is zucchini even a vegetable though? I think I remember that it’s like tomatoes and cucumbers - I knew the tomatoes one, but finding out cucumbers are technically a fruit blew my mind, let me tell you.”

Tony babbling had always been equal parts annoying and endearing for Steve; listening to it just then sent pain lancing through his heart. He hadn’t realized how much he’d missed it, or the sound of tinkering and electronics that so often provided background 'music’ for the man’s happy tumbling of words. He wondered if Bucky really listened, or if he tuned in and out like Steve had always done. He wondered if Bucky appreciated it, or if he only found it annoying.

He needed to see them.

“So I think zucchini might fall into that same 'why the fuck isn’t this a vegetable’ territory,” he probably should be tuning Tony out as he tried to stand, but he couldn’t quite make himself. “Probably botanists all through history have been conspiring to drive us all crazy with their nonsensical classifications.”

“Not all of us,” Buck interjected as Steve regained his feet, still using that playful tone of voice that he hadn’t heard in over seventy years. “Just you. Even at the dawn of science, people were lookin’ for ways ta piss you off. You specifically.”

“Whatever, Evergreen. Just for that you’re sleeping on the couch tonight.”

“Even if ya do make me, you’ll just join me a few hours later anyway. Better not - you’re old enough that your back won’t be happy about it.”

They kept teasing each other while Steve made his wobbly way to the workshop. Once he turned that last corner, the conversation suddenly cut out - FRIDAY had been letting him hear it. Like it had been in the tower, the workshop was surrounded by what looked like clear glass. It was actually something else, something stronger… but Steve couldn’t remember what it was called. It had been one of the babbling sessions that he’d tuned out. So he couldn’t hear them anymore, but what he was seeing more than made up for it. Tony wasn’t quite facing him, sitting at an angle with one of his hologram… things in front of him. He was working diligently even as his mouth moved, because he was good enough at what he did that he didn’t always have to focus his full attention on it. That was normal and what he was used to seeing - if that had been all he was seeing, Steve would have finally known that he was home and ready to make Tony his.

Instead, he was sitting in Bucky’s lap, so clearly at ease that it had to be something he did often. Both Bucky’s flesh arm and a metal one were wrapped snugly around Tony’s waist, and Buck had his chin hooked on Tony’s left shoulder. He was looking at whatever Tony was working on with both interest and some understanding, like maybe he’d really listened when Tony had explained what he was doing. The scene would have been heartwarming and beautifully domestic if it hadn’t been between Steve’s best friend and the guy he’d maybe left waiting for just a little too long.

Tony never noticed he was there… but Bucky was another story. His eyes suddenly cut to Steve’s, the look in them hard and cold - they were the eyes of the Winter Soldier, and for just a moment he was terrified for Tony. What if the efforts to counter decades of brainwashing hadn’t been as successful as they’d thought? What if Bucky wasn’t really Bucky? What if he hurt Tony? The thought didn’t last long, however, because the expression melted into one that was pure Bucky Barnes. It was sly, shit eating and full of smug victory - he had to know how much Steve wished he was sitting where Bucky was. He kept eye contact as he pressed his mouth to the side of Tony’s neck; it made the genius’s eyes flutter, but it wasn’t enough to stop his hands. Bucky tried again and then again, until Tony - still not looking up from his work, so he still didn’t know Steve was there - lightly swatted at him.

Bucky still had his eyes locked on Steve’s as he ignored the swat and ran one hand possessively up Tony’s chest. The other started to skim downward, but Steve resolutely refused to think about that. He had to watch as Bucky bit down on Tony’s neck, probably sucking hard enough to leave a mark, one that wouldn’t let anyone forget that Tony was Bucky’s. Steve wanted to taste the gasp the gesture drew from Tony’s lips, and he felt something in him crack when he realized that he wouldn’t ever get to. He wanted to feel the way Tony had arched, then melted back against Bucky’s chest. He wanted to be the one gently taking Tony’s throat in his hand, wanted to be the one using his hold to turn Tony’s head and draw him into a hot, messy, demanding kiss.

Steve wouldn’t ever get to have any of those things, because he’d left Tony waiting for too long, and Bucky had swooped in to steal it all away.

Once he’d stumbled almost blindly to his room, he stayed there for the rest of the night. He didn’t need to see the pair of them at dinner, or watch them cuddle up to each other during the movie the whole team planned on watching after. Steve didn’t want the constant reminder that he’d lost out, again, because he’d assumed he would have the time later to savor it. He just wanted time to process this latest lost, come to terms with it as best he could, before he had to interact with them. Steve wanted a night to himself before he had to deal with the pitying looks from his teammates. He wanted one last night before he had to admit to the world how badly he’d fucked up when it came to Tony Stark.

~.~.~

It didn’t take long for Steve’s team to realize they’d all fucked up when it came to Tony… at least in the eyes of his new team. They were all unnecessarily protective, throwing off glares and putting themselves bodily between Steve’s team and Tony. Wanda wasn’t allowed within a few feet of the genius… which she wouldn’t have minded at all if it wasn’t for the fact that Vision stuck almost as close to him as Bucky did. If they thought they detected even a hint of 'old behavior’ (they felt the original Avengers hadn’t treated Tony well and wouldn’t let Steve explain that that wasn’t true), they were quick to point it out and demand they change. Sam was adjusting alright, but Clint had left after a week of it and Wanda only stayed because of Steve. Nat had abandoned them too, but only to return to the new incarnation of SHIELD; when her job had her interacting with the Avengers she was cautious and careful in a way that she hadn’t been before. Steve just felt lost and defensive, and he didn’t understand why  they all thought Tony had been treated so badly.

Tony seemed oblivious to most of it, and he wasn’t sure if he was thankful for that or not. He didn’t often have two words to spare for Steve, and they all had to do with the Avengers. Gone were the lingering looks and the sweet smiles. They didn’t touch anymore, didn’t share intimate dinners that were just for the two of them, dinners where they spoke softly and easily with their feet intertwined. Tony was done waiting for him - Steve got the feeling he’d stopped waiting a while ago and he’d just been too willfully blind to see it. There wasn’t that spark of something between them anymore, and they weren’t even friends. They weren’t anything.

He wasn’t anything to Bucky anymore either. Steve had been too bewildered by his best friend’s relationship with Tony to reach out right away, and when he’d started trying he’d been rebuffed at every turn. Bucky didn’t even want to be called 'Bucky’ anymore - anyone that wasn’t Tony or Spider-Man had to call him 'James’. Tony had a slew of nicknames for him, most of them relating to winter, while Spider-Man (a kid named Peter Parker who got mad if anyone talked about that even when he was out of the mask) pretty persistently called him 'Cold Snap’. He’d tell anyone who would listen that he’d been the one to come up with the name and that Tony had stolen it. James would just smile and ruffle his hair whenever he was around to hear the story.

Whatever he was called now, Bucky had made it pretty goddamned clear that he didn’t feel like they were best friends anymore. He didn’t seem to like Steve at all, actually, though they still worked well enough together in the field. Every once in a while, Steve would catch a glimmer of the Bucky he’d known in the curve of his smile or the sparkle in his eyes; sometimes those little things would even last a day or two. But then Steve would accidentally say something or do something that would make Tony give a pained smile and withdraw, which would put him right back to square one. Because no matter how protective the rest of the Avengers were, even Colonel Rhodes had nothing on Bucky.

At first Bucky had stuck to Tony like a burr, and even four months later he was only a little better. Wherever Tony was, 'James’ was right behind him, being sweet and tender with his partner while looming like a thundercloud over almost everyone else. Well, he seemed to have decent relationships with the newer Avengers, especially Spider-Man and Hope van Dyne. So the new Avengers got smiles and sly comments, received the occasional clasp of the shoulder or other casual touch, and they were allowed to be near Tony without Bucky’s constant and oppressive presence. Steve actually suspected Bucky of enlisting the other new Avengers to watch after Tony whenever he was absent, because he couldn’t think of a single instance where any member of his team had been left alone with the genius.

Bucky was watching them, and if they overstepped whatever lines he’d drawn, he was not shy about kicking their asses.

He’d broken Clint’s arm during a sparring session, which was a large part of why the archer had decided he was done. Steve found out later that Clint had been ranting at Tony and when Tony had tried to leave, Clint had grabbed his arm hard enough to leave a bruise. While Bucky had only growled and physically removed him then, he’d exacted retribution the next time he’d faced Clint in the ring. That same week, during a team training exercise, he’d jumped onto Sam’s back and torn his wings to shreds; they’d dropped a good ten feet to the ground together, scrapping the whole way. Neither of them had broken anything, and a grim Sam had apologized the next day for talking shit about how long it was taking Tony to upgrade his equipment.

Wanda refused to spar with him or participate in training scenarios that he was a part of. From the intense, threatening way he looked at her and his tendency to play with knives in her presence, Steve didn’t really blame her.

Steve hadn’t escaped unscathed either. He was allowed to disagree with Tony and challenge his plans, but only if he had a point, a real reason for doing it. He learned quickly that yelling got him punches that were a little more vicious than usual, and if he got in Tony’s face during the heat of the moment he was likely to end up with a few cracked ribs the next time he faced off against Bucky. Once - just once - he’d tried to talk to Tony about everything that had happened alone. With some deft maneuvering he managed to corner Tony without anyone else around. He hadn’t wanted to frighten or hurt the genius… he’d just wanted them to clear the air. He’d wanted to know why and when Tony had stopped waiting. Steve hadn’t realized that Tony was shaking like a leaf and flinching away from him, hadn’t seen the panic in his eyes or registered that his breathing was too hard and too fast. It wasn’t until Bucky came storming up to them, expression dark and furious, that he’d realized that he was scaring the shit out of Tony. He’d backed off fast, but it hadn’t saved him from Bucky the next time they sparred - he’d ended up in medical, nursing a couple of broken bones and needing some stitches despite his healing factor.

All in all, Bucky was making his position incredibly clear. He wasn’t putting up with any 'bullshit’ being directed toward Tony, and he wasn’t afraid to take their blood as payment for every bit of suffering he thought his partner went through.

That’s what Steve had thought for a long time, anyway. He’d been sure it was Bucky, because Bucky loved Tony and wanted him happy and safe. Maybe he wouldn’t have gone to such extremes, but if Tony had been his Steve would have tried to secure exactly those things for him. And Bucky’d been through hell since his fall - it wasn’t surprising, not really, that he’d resort to methods that bordered on brutal to make a lesson stick.

Three months after arriving though, Steve realized it wasn’t Bucky at all.

Fighting - even while training - brought out what was left of the Winter Soldier. So where Bucky was quick to help Tony escape from uncomfortable situations, the Winter Soldier was intent on making them pay for causing them. Bucky might snap and snarl and verbally confront them, but the Winter Soldier was happy to make them bleed instead. Tony wasn’t just dating Bucky. After everything that had happened in Siberia, despite the way the Winter Soldier had killed his parents, Tony had accepted the Winter Soldier’s presence in his life.

More than accepted, actually. Tony never avoided his partner when he was more Winter Soldier than Bucky. In battle situations, once the fighting was over, he always went right to the Winter Soldier, touching and talking until they were both reassured that the other was alright. Tony never shied away from Bucky’s more violent half, and Steve wondered how and why that had happened. He wished he knew why Tony could be so willing to let the Winter Soldier touch him, kiss him, but shut Steve out so completely. It was like he thought Steve was somehow worse than a brainwashed assassin, and it was bewildering and infuriating. He hated watching Tony cuddle the Winter Soldier until what was left of Hydra’s monster felt the situation was safe enough that he could retreat. He hated hearing Tony babble joyfully at the creation that had murdered his parents, hated the way the Winter Soldier would almost smile as he indulged Tony’s every whim. He hated how jealous it all made him, and he hated that even the worst part of his former best friend got more of Tony than he could ever hope to have even on his best day.

Steve had taken for granted that Tony would wait for him forever. He’d thought the unnamed, unspoken thing between them would last through whatever life threw at them. He had genuinely believed that the way they looked at each other, the way they both  knew they could have something, would be enough to keep Tony happy to wait until Steve finally managed to get around to paying Tony actual attention. He’d been grateful that Tony hadn’t done anything that would take his attention away from more immediate, more 'important’ things.

He’d been such a fucking idiot.

Maybe he didn’t know the details of how they’d gotten together. Maybe he didn’t know exactly how hostility had turned to acceptance and then love. He had no idea what had taken them away from being enemies and put them into a relationship that seemed to make them both flourish. What he did know was that it had happened because Bucky had been there. He hadn’t shunted Tony off to the side or chosen to make his priorities elsewhere. Bucky had been right there, giving Tony his time and attention instead of offering only a nebulous 'someday, maybe’ while so many of his actions had caused Tony pain. Bucky had offered Tony something real, something concrete, and Steve couldn’t blame him for taking it. Even when jealousy raged inside of him, threatening to turn him bitter, Steve finally understood why Tony had stopped waiting for him.

Good things were supposed to come to those who waited, but those 'good things’ had to actually appear at some point. Tony had waited for him for years, and Steve would have been content to make him wait even longer. Hell, the only reason he’d even thought about trying for something more was because he’d lost everything again. That had scared him into wanting something real with Tony - if their stupid 'civil war’ hadn’t happened, he’d probably have made Tony wait until the day one of them died in battle.

Tony had waited enough, and Steve had lost another good thing to time.