#chooseyourpuzzle

[unofferable-fic]

Even-Stevens (Steve Rogers x Reader x Bucky Barnes)

Summary: While on a recon mission overseas, Bucky finds himself in close quarters with you and Steve. The last thing he expects is for the conversation to turn to your preference for super soldiers and an apparent ‘free pass’ arrangement.

Originally posted here

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Pairing: Steve x Reader x Bucky

Warnings: Language, kissing, free passes and such.

Word Count: 3,126

Puzzle Pieces: Character: Bucky Barnes Weather: Snow storm Setting: Finding/renting a cabin Prompt: “Move or I’ll sit on you.”

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A/N: Also available on AO3. Howdy, this is my first piece of Marvel-related writing in a while and is also part of @your-highnessmarvel​ ’s Choose Your Puzzle Writing Challenge. This is just a bit of fun with my two favourite super soldiers, really. Hope you’s enjoy!

“How much longer until we get to this cabin, Cap? I feel like I’m starting to freeze.”

Bucky’s boots crunched in the snow as he trudged along a steep incline. Ahead of him, Steve and Y/N lead the way through the Scandinavian forests while the unsettling grey clouds above began to release a torrent of snow right on schedule. They had been flown out to the more secluded part of Sweden that afternoon, on a mission to do some recon on a newly-discovered HYDRA base. Two super soldiers and a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent — each of them having extensive knowledge on the organisation — seemed like the right crew to send out. The only issue was that a snow storm was due to swing by, forcing them to make a stop for some rest before sneaking to the base’s outskirts in the early morning hours. Bucky didn’t have much problem with snow anymore, even if he used to associate it with his time spent under HYDRA’s strict control in Siberia. It was somewhat freeing to be able to admire the peaceful weather without an unnerving and anxious feeling twisting around in his stomach.

Steve called out from his spot at the front of the trio. “The cabin should be on the other side of this hill, so not long now.”

Bucky was the last in line with Y/N placed firmly between them. She released a sigh, visibly done with the building snow already. “Good, I don’t think I can feel my toes anymore.”

“You always this dramatic about a bit of snow?” Bucky teased, revelling in his super soldier abilities that kept him warm in useful times like this.

“Ugh, yes, considering I’m still a measly human?” she replied, glancing over her shoulder to look at him. “Not all of us got to have that special potion of yours, Barnes.”

“That potion doesn’t gift ya with extra patience, doll.”

“Well no wonder you’re such a grumpy guy then, James.”

From the front of the line, Steve called out. “Good God. Whose idea was it to send you two on this mission with me again?”

“Yours!” they replied in unison without hesitation and Bucky laughed.

Steve let out a sigh. “Right, guess that’s my own fault then.”

“Could be worse, Stevie,” Bucky offered, hopping over a fallen log that blocked his path. “At least we’re not teasin’ you this time.”

“How about we keep the joking around until after we reach the cabin at least?”

They didn’t have to wait long to reach their destination. The cabin was where Steve said it would be, hidden away amidst the dense shrubbery and trees. Bucky barely offered the wooden structure more than a glance as they hurried inside and shut the outside world off behind them. Even if he wasn’t particularly struggling in the harsh weather, it was nice to be somewhere more secure and comforting.

“I’ll get the fire going,” Steve assured them, taking his signature shield off his back and leaving it leaning against a nearby wall. His tone shifted from that of Captain Rogers to his more casual friend Steve. “So we can warm up.”

“This place is really nice for a S.H.I.E.L.D. base,” Y/N noted, already shrugging off her heavy coat with a shiver. She peered into what looked to be a small living room and pointed at a big recliner in the corner. “Damn, I can’t wait to park my ass in that later. Look at how fluffy those cushions are!”

“It’s a good spot,” Steve agreed, chuckling at her enthusiasm. “And it should keep us warm and away from that snow before we head out again later.”

“Please tell me this place has hot water?”

“Stark said he would make sure we have hot water and food, so you should have plenty.”

“God bless that man,” she said gleefully. “I’m gonna go grab a shower.” With a kiss on Steve’s cheek, she rushed off into the bathroom. Steve’s eyes trailed after her with a small smile and Bucky eyed him, smirking in amusement.

“I’d tease ya for that,” Bucky began. “If you two weren’t so damn cute and ya didn’t have that shit-eatin’ grin on your face.”

“Then take your own advice and say nothing,” Steve waved him off, turning his attention to the fire. “I’ve had enough of your teasing for one day, punk.”

“’M just glad things are workin’ out between ya.”

Steve and Y/N had been in a relationship for the past year and from what Bucky could tell, things were going pretty well. They met at the Compound when she was brought in to assist with certain HYDRA missions. Being a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, she had much to offer, and her expertise came in very handy when they needed it. Steve clearly became fond of her for more than that, and his offer of coffee sparked what ended up being a healthy relationship for them both. He wasn’t at all surprised when she caught Captain America’s attention. She was quietly confident in her abilities, could handle herself in the field, and was dedicated to helping people in whatever way she could. Not only that, but her playful snark when in a more casual setting caught him hook, line, and sinker. Bucky was always happy to see his best friend finding someone who made him feel content, and even more happy that he could poke fun at him for smiling like an idiot every time she was in the room. It helped that he genuinely liked her too, and found that they had surprisingly similar personalities. She certainly had his best pal seal of approval.

“Thanks, Buck,” Steve replied, tossing logs on to the newly-lit fire. “I’m glad too.”

Bucky smiled before glancing around the small sitting room. “Anythin’ ya need me to do to help out?”

“Tony said he would have some ready-made meals left in the fridge for us if you wanna sort those out.”

Bucky assured him he was on it before heading to the small kitchen in the next room over. As he pulled the pasta dishes from the mini fridge and prepared them, he got a proper look around the room. It was surprisingly homely, considering it was a base that was used quite regularly by S.H.I.E.L.D. agents in the area, but he supposed it would look suspicious to any passersby who looked in its windows and saw goddamn spy equipment littered all over the place. Its wooden beams and rustic decoration induced a warm, cosy feeling inside him.

Yeah, I could get used to this place.

With three meals steaming and ready to go, he knocked on the bathroom door to let Y/N know that there was food waiting for her when she got out. It didn’t take her too long to join them in the living room. Bucky, ever the antagonistic jerk that he was, parked himself firmly in the much sought after recliner, much to Steve’s dismay. He would regret it, he said, already expecting the confrontation that would occur. The former Winter Soldier merely flashed him a pasta-filled smile. Evidently, Steve was right to warn him — the agent soon joined them with wet hair and wearing more casual clothes compared to her earlier attire. She planted herself in front of him, hands on her hips, while he wolfed down his meal. Up until that point, the calming atmosphere in the cabin had been ideal. Now, Bucky had definitely put his damn foot in it.

“You’re in my spot.”

“Am I?” he asked, feigning innocence and unable to help himself. “Is this your cabin too?”

She bit back a smile. “It’s not my cabin, but I sure as hell claimed that chair.”

“I didn’t hear ya claim anythin’.”

“You must be hard of hearing in your old age, then.”

From his spot on the couch, Steve snorted. Bucky rolled his eyes. “Don’t bother an old man his chair.”

“That’s my chair.”

“Says who?”

“Says me! So move.”

He chuckled, enjoying how he vexed her. “Not gonna happen, doll.”

“Move or I’ll sit on you.”

He grinned. “Awh c’mon, we don’t wanna make Stevie jealous with an offer like that.”

With a huff, she plopped herself on the couch next to Steve, letting her back rest against his shoulder and grabbing her ready-made meal. “You’re the bane of my existence, Barnes.”

“Love you too, doll.”

Though they pretended to fight and ended up in bouts of verbal grilling semi-regularly, neither of them ever took it to heart.

The Captain merely rolled his eyes at the exchange, chucking his empty food container on the table and grabbing the laptop. “I need a distraction from this bickering. What did I do to deserve dealing with you two on this mission?”

Y/N replied without missing a beat. “It must have been because of your rampant infidelity.”

Bucky choked on the last mouthful of his meal. He spluttered out a laugh, smacking his chest in an attempt to clear his throat. “Fuckin’ hell—”

Steve appeared unamused while his girlfriend pacified him. “It was just a joke, Steve! Why are you making that face?”

Oh, boy. Bucky would have felt bad for laughing had the situation been far more serious, but thankfully, said accusations were completely — well, mostly — false. At this point, it had become a bit of a joke between her and Steve.

A few months ago, Steve — or rather, Captain America — was asked to partake in an advertisement campaign, in which he was to do a photoshoot themed around the thirties and forties. Very original. One such snapshot was to be a recreation of the infamous V-J Day in Times Square photo, more commonly known as the Navy sailor embracing and kissing the nurse. A model took the place of the nurse, and it was done quite tastefully in Bucky’s opinion. Steve informed Y/N ahead of time, worried she might be displeased with the arrangement, but she was completely unfazed, well aware that it was just for a photograph. Regardless, the captain worried, reassuring her that ‘it meant nothing, yada yada yada…’ It had become sort of a running joke that she would frame him as a cheating fiend to get back for the weeks of unnecessary explanations she received from her boyfriend.

“I already said I was sorry about it,” Steve grumbled, slinging his arm around her shoulder and pulling her body closer to his. “And you’re still hasslin’ me about it.”

“I’m only joking around,” she clarified and gave his hand a squeeze. “Plus, I’ve already told you that you don’t have to apologise to me. I couldn’t care less about the photoshoot. But that hasn’t stopped you from saying sorry or making unusual offers.”

“Unusual offers?” Bucky repeated, looking between them with immediate interest.

Y/N looked to her boyfriend with a wry grin. “Can we tell him?”

“Tell me what?”

Steve was grinning despite his hesitance. “If you want to, but it can’t leave this cabin.”

Bucky immediately sat up in the recliner. “Okay, now I’m really curious.”

With a sure nod from Steve, she turned to Bucky and revealed what their secret was. “He offered me a free pass.”

Bucky blinked. “A what?”

“A free pass. Like, he said I can kiss one person to make up for him kissing the model. That way, we’ll be ‘even Stevens’, as he said.”

Bucky was silent for a few seconds before he burst out laughing. He met Steve’s gaze and said. “Ya seriously suggested that?”

The other man shrugged in response. “I felt guilty, alright? And it was only if she wanted to. There were also some conditions.”

Y/N began to list them off on her fingers. “No strangers, no one already in a relationship, Steve has to know about it ahead of time and also be present, and specifically not Tony under any circumstances.”

“But isn’t he already in a relationship anyway?”

“Yeah, but Steve was very insistent about it not being him.”

Bucky couldn’t help but be amused by the arrangement, but Steve generally seemed unbothered by it. He supposed he felt reassured in their relationship and unthreatened about giving her a free pass to kiss someone else once without consequence.

Bucky nodded along thoughtfully. “So… ya got your eyes on anyone?”

“I will admit, I did ask Steve whether Thor would be allowed.”

Bucky snorted. “Of course ya’d go for another big, dumb blonde.”

“Damn,” Steve sighed, pretending to be insulted. “Way to do us both dirty, Buck.”

“What can I say?” She shrugged, displaying not even an ounce of shame. “I do love a good beefcake.”

“Thor ain’t the only beefcake on the team,” Steve added, nodding suggestively to his friend sitting opposite them. “Right?”

Bucky’s natural response was to laugh until he saw the thoughtful look in Y/N’s eyes. Clogs were clearly turning in her mind as she looked between them. “Well, now that you mention it…”

His mouth fell open. “Uh…”

Now it was Steve’s turn to be amused at his friend’s discomfort. “You speechless, pal?”

“’M tryin’ not to make assumptions, punk.”

“To be honest,” she began again, equally amused by his reaction. “I did ask if you were also off limits, and apparently you’re not.”

Bucky was honestly stumped. At first, he couldn’t tell whether they were joking or pulling some out of embarrassing prank. “I can’t tell if you two are bein’ serious.”

“Oh, it’s not a joke,” Steve confirmed casually. “She asked whether I’d be more comfortable with her kissing either you or Thor, and I’ve known you longer than anyone on our team. I’d be more comfortable if it’s someone I trust wholeheartedly.”

“I… Uh, I just,” Bucky stammered, trying to choose his words carefully so that he didn’t sound like an ass. He assumed he already sounded like an ass. “I wouldn’t want things to be awkward between us, Steve.”

“It’s just a kiss, Barnes,” Y/N replied. “Nothing to get your knickers in a twist over. Seriously, no big deal.”

He looked at her pensively. “No big deal?”

“If I kiss Bucky,” she said, placing a hand on Steve’s thigh. “Can we be even with this whole kiss thing and you can stop going on about it?”

He nodded and quickly shut the laptop. “Deal. If he’s comfortable with it too.”

“I mean…” Bucky cleared his throat as they watched him expectantly. “’M not gonna turn down a kiss.”

Y/N got to her feet as he did. For a moment, he stood there awkwardly. It had been many years since Bucky was a rampant and confident ladies man. Even if he was doing much better since his brainwashed Winter Solder days, he still hadn’t settled back into his previous reputation. His charisma had taken a bit of a nose dive. Sometimes he was more comfortable around damn goats than he was around a good-looking woman.

“It’s just a peck,” she reassured him gently with a small smile.

“Uh, sure. Yeah.” He smiled back, not entirely sure what he should do with his hands. His metal fingers clenched into a fist before relaxing and repeating the motion.

“You should dip her,” Steve suggested from his spot on the couch. When they gave him a questioning look, he added. “That’s what I had to do for the photoshoot. Y’know, like the original photo.”

“Ya tryin’a make me feel even more awkward?” Bucky accused him.

“Maybe.”

“Okay,” Y/N said, then clapped her hands to psych them up. “Come on, Barnes! Don’t think, just go for it!”

“Awh, fuck.”

Taking her advice and just ‘going for it’, Bucky pulled her swiftly into his arms, dipped her back, and pressed his lips against hers. Her arms instinctively grabbed his broad shoulders as she settled into the sudden kiss, lips relaxing against his. He eased her back up, keeping the kiss chaste and gentle. Despite the formality of the arrangement and the fact his best friend was currently watching the embrace, Bucky couldn’t help but think about how nice it was to kiss a woman again. It wasn’t suggestive, it wasn’t desperate, and it certainly wasn’t insinuating that there was more to come. But it was good. Her soft lips, the light breath fanning over his face, and her body fitting into his sure as hell made him feel really damn good.

He pulled back from her lips with a small smack, carefully releasing her from his grasp. They stared at each other for a moment, taking in their surrounds and looking to see Steve sitting contentedly on the couch. “That was some dip.”

Bucky grumbled in response while Y/N looked at him expectantly. “Sooooo, we’re even now?”

“Even Stevens.”

“Sweet. Thanks for the assistance, Barnes.”

Bucky waved her off awkwardly. “’S fine. ’M not sure if this is weird, but you’re a good kisser.”

She giggled slightly. “Even if it’s kinda weird, you’re a good kisser too.” She ran a hand over the back of her neck and picked up her food off the table. “I’m, eh, gonna go reheat my dinner. I’ll be back.”

She left without another word, the sound of the microwave coming on confirming her explanation. Bucky stood in the middle of the room for a moment, watching her leave and then clearing his throat. He reclaimed his seat in the recliner once more, feeling his friend’s eyes on him.

Bucky met his smirking gaze. “Whose idea was that?”

“Hers originally,” Steve admitted. “But I didn’t have any problem with it. We discussed it before a few times.”

“Ya sure you’re cool with it?”

“Definitely,” he confirmed. “It’s kinda nice to see you flustered over a dame for once.”

“So we’re good?” he asked with an edge to his voice. “No big deal?”

“Of course we’re good, Buck! Plus, who says I didn’t get anythin’ outta that either?”

The brunette’s brows piqued at his admittance. “Really? Huh… Ya better hope Stark hasn’t got this place bugged.”

“What Tony won’t know won’t hurt him.” Steve relaxed in his seat, completely unfazed by the turn of events. “But what I did know, was that you’d be up for the suggestion. And now I get to tease you for once. Who knew my girl could make you so flustered?”

Bucky shook his head, not taking the teasing to heart. He met his best friend’s cheerful gaze and started to laugh at the ridiculousness of it all. This was one weird recon mission, but he was sure as shit enjoying it. “Shut up, jerk.”

“Not a chance, punk.”

[your-highnessmarvel]

Choose Your Puzzle - Writing Challenge

HEELLOOOO! Since I hit 2k this week, I wanted to provide yall with a chance to write Marvel fics with me :) I want to say thank you to everyone following me, but a bigger thank you to those who like, comment, and reblog my posts, you have no idea how big I smile when I see those notes!

Now, this is a writing challenge for my followers (or not, you’re welcome to join as well!). I want to hear FROM YOU and to see all your beautiful writing. 

There are just a few conditions I want to specify before I start:

Once you’ve chosen your puzzle, ask me via my inbox or ask messages.

If you are to write smut, please be 18+ and use adult characters (for example, I know Peter and Shuri are not of age).

PLEASE tag me in your fics so that I can see it!

Use the tag #ChooseYourPuzzle in your fic so that I can view them all and start a masterlist.

If your fic is 500 words or more, PRETTY PLEASE use the keep reading

If you submit it to me, I will give you full credit, but if you wish to remain anonymous, mention it to me.

Deadline is March 20th. Is that enough? I think so, yes? If not, please tell me and I’ll extend the deadline!

Now, for the Puzzle! 

There are four categories: Character, Weather, Setting, and Prompt. You must choose ONE OF EACH. 

CHARACTER

Steve Rogers/Captain America

Sam Wilson/Falcon

Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier

Wanda Maximoff

The Vision

Hope Van Dyke

Scott Lang

Tony Stark/Iron Man

Thor

Loki

T’Challa

Shuri

Peter Parker/Spiderman

Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow

Okoye

Stephen Strange

Wong

Bruce Banner/Hulk

Clint Barton

Gamora

Peter Quill

Drax

Groot

Nebula

Rocket Raccoon 

Pietro Maximoff/Quicksilver 

Mantis 

Carol Danvers

War Machine

If there is a character that is not listed here you’d like to write about, feel free to ask me :)

WEATHER

Rain

Thunderstorm

Cloudy

Snowing

Snow storm

Hurricane

Sunshine

Rainbow

Cold

Ice rain

Hot

Foggy

Right after the rain

SETTING

River

Ocean

In a house

Living room

Condo

On the front lawn

Finding/renting a cabin

School/office

In a plane

Field of grass

Deep woods

Street corner

Gas station

Library

Bar/club/restaurant

In a car

Under a palm tree

On a balcony

In a ballroom/at a dance

Bedroom

Under a bridge

In a boat or a cruise ship

Train

PROMPT

“Why did you have to go and do that?”

“There’s one on the kitchen counter.”

You bring *chosen character* an ice cream cone

“Is it safe?”

“Who turned off the hot water?”

Sunset/sunrise with *chosen character*

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

“I have a bad cramp.”

“One time when I was young...” 

Someone knocks at the door while you and *chosen character* are having a verbal argument 

“I saw a banana at the market and it seemed lonely so I bought it.”

*Chosen character* is called to battle and you are worried

Healing/cleaning *chosen character’s* wounds after battle

*Chosen character* saving your life

You saving *chosen character*

“I’m just wondering who said that looks good on you.” 

“Does anyone have a lighter?”

Trying to lift Mjiolnir with *chosen character*

“Move or I’ll sit on you.”

“This is so long!”

“Did you know measles vaccine was invented in 1968?”

“How about no.”

“Oh that’s just totally fluffy.”

Catching *chosen character* in an embarrassing predicament 

“You smell that?”

“I thought you were tough shit.”

Admitting your feelings to *chosen character*

“I’m trying to learn Russian, would you please stop.”

*Chosen character* meeting your parents for the first time

Telling *chosen character* that you are pregnant or vice versa

“I’m going into labor!”

“Someone get me a garbage bag.”

“How do you like your eggs, Mister/Miss?”

VOILA! Since this is a puzzle, all these are up for grabs. None will be the same. ENJOY! HAVE FUN! I CAN’T WAIT TO READ!!!

[iwritethingstoo]

“I am Groot”

A/N: This is for @your-highnessmarvel​​ #ChooseYourPuzzle Challenge. Hope you enjoy it!

Characters: Avengers and OFC Katrien

Word Count: >500

Warnings: Language in Groot

Puzzle pieces: Character: Groot Weather: Just after a rain storm Place: In a ballroom Prompt: “I’m trying to learn Russian, would you please stop.”

Enjoy!

Tags: @official-and-unstable-satan​​ @sweater-daddiesdumbdork​​

“I am Groot.”

“You’re not gonna grow anything weird.” Katrien shook her head as she watched the tree-being shake himself off. The rain had just stopped, but not before they were drenched running into the building. Katrien took in her surroundings and saw that they had entered a ballroom. At first, she thought they were in the wrong place until she saw Natasha, dressed in a flowing purple gown, talking to Clint who was in a black tuxedo.

“I thought it was odd that Fury told us to wear super formal clothing. I was under the impression that this was just supposed to be a meeting, not a meet and greet.” She looked down at her baby blue dress, thankful that the satin material was shedding the rain water, before looking back to Groot. “Why didn’t you tell me I was wrong?”

“I am Groot.” He replied in a mocking tone.

“Don’t you sass me.” She scolded the teenager.

“I am Groot.”

“Keep that up and I’ll take away all your games.”

“I am Groot.”

“That’s it mister. You will not curse at me. Your games are mine until I feel like giving them back and If you utter another word about it, you’ll never get them back.” He crossed his arms, but didn’t say anything else. “Good. Now then, I guess we should mingle.” They started walking towards Nat and Clint, but were interrupted by a male voice.

“Ah Lady Katrien and Tree. It is so good to see you made it.” She turned to see the God of Thunder, wearing what she assumed was Asgardian formal attire.

“Thor, I didn’t think you would return in time for this. How long have you been back?” She asked her friend.

“I just arrived by the Bifrost only moments ago. I am sorry to end this conversation so quickly, but I must speak with Tony.” He looked around for a minute before catching a glimpse of the billionaire and strode off in that direction.

Katrien looked back to where Natasha stood, now alone, on her phone. As they got closer, Katrien could hear that Nat was speaking in hurried Russian to the person on the other end.

“I am Groot.” Groot began tugging on Katrien’s dress, trying to get her attention. She swatted his arm away, but he continued. “I am Groot. I am Groot.”

“I’m trying to learn Russian, would you please stop.” She turned back to see him pointing to Fury who seemed to be in a heated argument with Thor. Just then Fury turned into Loki and lunged at his brother.

“Of course. Only Loki would send us to a ‘meeting’ in such a formal setting.” Katrien pulled up her skirt and retrieved a knife from the holster on her leg. She took a quick glance around the room to see that everyone else had also drawn their weapons.

[fluasch]

#ChooseYourPuzzle - Writing challenge by @your-highnessmarvel

Prompt: Bruce banner on a front lawn right after the rain, “when I was young...”

Warnings: lil bit of Angst, smoking?

A/N: Okey so first of all I procrastinated posting this like hell because I didn’t properly write in like a year so excuse my rusty writings. Also this doesn’t fit in the canon. ALSO I’m sorry I’m late!

Do you have what it takes?

You’ve been a colleague, maybe even a friend of Natasha Romanoff. You worked together before her time with Shield and she kept you close afterwards. It wasn't like you were that important in this game of heroes and villains, gods and demons. You were just a small fish in this big pond, a mere associate of associates.

For that reason you never understood why Natasha didn't ditch you.

Obtaining risky information was your work field and made your skills more valuable than yourself. Despite that you kept your head down, only working on smaller jobs, changing location after every paycheck. Some would call that paranoid but for you, it was a simple necessity. Even little jobs required an awful lot of work-most of it wasn't exactly legal. You looked innocent though, and that was luck enough to be successful.

When Natasha called you, you were, quite frankly, surprised and more important, anxious. She never reached out for contact after Shield has been compromised by Hydra. At that time Natasha knew something was up, and she asked you if you could dig trough some files, ask around to find out if the feeling in her gut was right.

It usually was.

You personally weren’t interested if Shield fell and Hydra would rise. Both sides paid well and you weren't someone with a moral code other than to not have unfinished business.

But Natasha was somewhat a friend of you and while you weren’t the most friendly criminal on Earth you deemed yourself quite loyal.

Loyalty is always hard to find and it had opened many doors for you. People trusted you and it's easy to backstab trusting people. You wouldn't dare to backstab the Black Widow though.

When Natasha called you, she asked you to do something for her. She didnt exactly tell you what. So logically it was something you wouldn't agree on it just like that.

Still, you were curious why she called you just now.

The avengers were hunting down the last remains of Hydra and Natasha suspected you knew where high ranked agents hid, what their next moves were. you didn't knew a damn thing. People knew your connections reached far. And that, with you, sometimes informations traveled from one side to another and back.

You agreed to meet up with her and discuss just what exactly Natasha could possibly want from you.

On 4pm sharp a black car parked in front of the hotel you were currently staying in. You were already waiting outside, umbrella in one hand and with the other you tried to keep your skirt from flashing people. It had been raining in NYC for nearly a week now, and Spring was nowhere in sight.

A man stepped out of the car and introduced himself as Agent Davis. Agent Davis was a tall, broad, tanned man. Blond hair, blue eyes, he could work as a Hilfiger model. Why would a man like him work as an Agent? Was it that well paid? It must have been like that because you couldn't imagine another reason to risk his life for one of the most problematic group of people in this century.

Yes, of cause they saved the world from aliens, from robots, from downright evil people and a whole lot other problems. But, and thats where the Avengers started to get problematic for a lot of people, those problems mostly existed because of them. If there were no shield, there wound't have been a half god come to Earth trough a portal to conquer it with an army of aliens. Wound't it have been for the Avengers Sokovia wouldn't have been ripped apart by a 8ft tall Robot. Just to name a few hero-made problems. So there couldn’t possibly another reason than a whole lot of money to put a target on ones head.

On the ride to the meeting point you weighted out pros and cons to ask Agent Davis why he would work for the Avengers.

The cons outweighed the pros. You wouldn't start a conversation with two Agents mostly for the reason to maintain as anonymous as possible, but probably also because your mind was to occupied with guesses of what could have possibly moved Natasha to contact you.

When, after an one hour long drive, the car made its way up to the Avengers HQ compound, you were sure it was something serious. Way too serious for your liking.

The compound rested on top of a hill outside New York City, it was white and if the sun would hit just right, you could make it out when you were in downtown Manhattan. It was like a sleeping giant, packed with heroes, weapons and secrets and the thought of stepping into this monstrosity made your stomach turn.

Way too big, everything was way too big, way too serious.

You hoped for a little coffee shop to meet Natasha in, a little bit of shit talking and you ultimately politely declining her offer, crying about having some other business. You couldn't decline this though, you were sure of it.

If you had accepted an offer from a European mobster two weeks ago you would have been half way to Italy by now, enjoying expensive champagne on a private plane.

There would be no champagne at the compound.

The car came to an halt right in the front of wide stairs leading up to an enormous front of glass. People went in and out by the second. You didn’t imagine the compound this busy.

On the last plane of stairs Natasha waited for you. Crossed arms, wide stance and an unreadable expression on her face. If it wasn't for the busy people around her and the HQ in the background you would have thought you travelled back in time.

Agent Davis opened the door for you. You thanked him and said your goodbyes, your voice shaking a little bit. You were caught off guard. Agent Davis didn't say a word, but he spared a smile.

"Y/L/N. Long time no see." As the car drove off and you moved up the stairs Natasha greeted you with a similar serious voice like when she called you. It wasn't the best of signs.

"You don't look a day older than the last time I saw you.” She smiled now, just a little bit, and not for long but it was enough to make you feel a bit more safe. You smiled back closing the umbrella as you took the last stairs and stepped inside.

"So, Natasha, what is so urgent that you had me brought here?"

"Patience, dear. It's so good to see you again."

"You never bothered to call me."

"I was busy."

"So am I. I have business to attend, so can we get this over with?"

"Not really, you don't." She smiled, and you were caught off guard once again. You should have prepared better.

"You have been watching me?"

"Since you came back to town. Didn't see much business you attended to." You sighted, closed your eyes as you two were moving up yet another flight of stairs. Geez this building has more stairs than heroes pent up.

"Besides, I don't think you have any more businesses to attend after I explained you our offer." She mocked you. Good old Nat.

"Our?"

"Dear, I work in a team now." with that sentence, she opened a darkened glass door to what seemed like a conference room.

You excused yourself two hours later for a break, having to think over. everything you just got told.

You stepped outside. Next to flight of stairs you entered the building over earlier was a patch of grass, some may consider it a front lawn. You just thought it was a sad attempt to make the block of concrete a little bit more friendly.

It stopped raining and you lighted a cigarette. Bad habit of yours but you never considered stopping. Made an awful lot of things easier, or so it seemed.

Bruce Banner had followed you outside.

Natasha probably sent him, trying to sympathize with you. But you just needed a break.

"You can decline the offer if you want to, you know." Is not the sentence you expected but you could certainly work with it.

"I'm not so sure about that.” You took a drag from your cigarette.

"And I'm sure you know that."

He smiled. An honest smile. You weren't expecting that. "Nat can be a bit... demanding at times. But I'm sure you know that." He knew about the relationship between you and Natasha. You weren't expecting that either.

"What did she told you about me?" You were uncomfortable now. People knowing stuff about you made your skin itch.

"That your skill and expertise makes you valuable for a whole lot of people. That you like it to keep everything for yourself, she said you like to work on your own. And that you don't keep information from wandering off if the right price is offered." He retold you everything Natasha did tell him, but he didn’t seem to be that much interested in this kind of information. Nevertheless your skin was burning now.

"Then why call me for something this important?" Your cigarette was half gone and you didn't intend to keep talking to Bruce after it burned down completely, thrown away and left to dissolve onto the puddle sprinkled grass.

You didn't need small talk right now, no winning over by a kind soul. Businesses needed to be attended to, you had a timetable and you were running behind 3 appointments already. Or so you told yourself.

But, and this made you question yourself, what did Bruce had to say about you? What did Natasha tell him that made him seek a conversation with you, when you clearly weren't up for it.

"Why did Natasha send you of all people, after me? If you know so much about me what made you think that you could possibly win me over for your cause?"

"Nat didn't send me. I'm here on my own, you know? And I personally think you could help us a lot... If you want to."

"I’m a criminal."

"We all are to some extend."

You started to think that maybe, just maybe, he was genuinely interested in your person, not just your abilities.

You smiled into your cigarette. You didn't knew exactly why, but a smile seemed fitting in this situation. No business, no working matter to discuss about. Just to people talking.

"When I was young I wanted to help people. Didn't matter what or who, l just wanted to give support to people in need. I can listen, I can comprehend. Keep stuff organised. I was the go to person for rumors in high school. And in the blink of an eye I found myself between criminals and information that makes you puke out your intestines. And now I help the cruel fulfill their cruelness. I never thought helping people could be bad, but here I am; an international fugitive with no moral code and currently talking to an avenger!"

You were railed up. This whole situation just seemed so ironic. Getting offered a job with the opportunity to finally help people and, potentially, kinda maybe help the world out.

It's just...

"So just for the sake of helping people you threw everything else out of the window?"

"in a way...?”

"Well maybe you don't have to it this time."

Your cigarette has been burned down some time ago, but you clinched to it like it was the last thing that kept you from dying.

Oh, the irony.

Your whole life people cared only about what you could or couldn't do. They questioned you. Whats the price? How long will it take you? Are you able to do it?

And now this man, out of all people, the man with the monster inside him. The man with the ability to wipe out whole cities, the man who’s judged and hunted for what he’s able to do instead of being celebrated to keep it contained, to not destroy everything around him.

This man is telling you, that you can pick out your dream from the street under the window you threw it out of such a long time ago, if you just had the guts to leave the comfort and security of loneliness.

You didn't have them.

You gave that up a long time ago.

"Thank you, Bruce. But tell the others I'm not interested."

And with that, you stepped from under the roof out on the soggy grass. Your heels were boring themselves into the mud. It had started raining again. You didn't care.

"At least let me call you a car to bring you back!"

"I'll find my way. Goodbye."

You didn't turn around.

It's bad for business. Or so you told yourself.

[your-highnessmarvel]

Choose Your Puzzle - Masterlist

Here, you can find all the great works from my 2k writing challenge available through this link. 

@omgopalsapphire​ wrote COLD (Loki x reader) angst, dark, sad. Made me feel all the feels. Reader lives the aftermath of Loki’s death. 

[your-highnessmarvel]

let’s go let’s go let’s go!

Choose Your Puzzle - Writing Challenge

HEELLOOOO! Since I hit 2k this week, I wanted to provide yall with a chance to write Marvel fics with me :) I want to say thank you to everyone following me, but a bigger thank you to those who like, comment, and reblog my posts, you have no idea how big I smile when I see those notes!

Now, this is a writing challenge for my followers (or not, you’re welcome to join as well!). I want to hear FROM YOU and to see all your beautiful writing. 

There are just a few conditions I want to specify before I start:

Once you’ve chosen your puzzle, ask me via my inbox or ask messages.

If you are to write smut, please be 18+ and use adult characters (for example, I know Peter and Shuri are not of age).

PLEASE tag me in your fics so that I can see it!

Use the tag #ChooseYourPuzzle in your fic so that I can view them all and start a masterlist.

If your fic is 500 words or more, PRETTY PLEASE use the keep reading

If you submit it to me, I will give you full credit, but if you wish to remain anonymous, mention it to me.

Deadline is March 20th. Is that enough? I think so, yes? If not, please tell me and I’ll extend the deadline!

Now, for the Puzzle! 

There are four categories: Character, Weather, Setting, and Prompt. You must choose ONE OF EACH. 

Keep reading