#steve x laura

[paceypeternathanslawyer]

TV Couples + 1940s Themed Episodes

Nathan & Haley (One Tree Hill, 2003-2012)

Clark & Lois (Smallville, 2001-2011)

Laura & Steve (Family Matters, 1989-1998)

Olivia & Peter (Fringe, 2008-2013)

[literaryavenger]

Happy Birthday

Summary: It's your birthday and the only person who doesn't seem to be excited about it is you.

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader

Warnings: Mentions of death. Angst. Fluff. Language probably. My poor attempts at being funny.

Word Count: 2.5K

A/N: This story was completely self-indulgent, but I hope someone out there likes it!

Masterlist

You’ve always been very reluctant to celebrate your birthday.

You haven’t had a birthday party since you were 12. The following year your mom died a couple of days before and neither you nor your family were in the mood to celebrate anything.

It wasn’t by any means unexpected, she had been sick for a few years, but it still hit you hard.

You were the youngest and were far too young when she first got sick to really understand everything going on.

You were 8 and all you really remember is watching your mom get more and more sick until eventually there was nothing more the doctors could do.

Her death hit you hard and you closed yourself off, never talking about it or even crying after the day of her funeral. To this day you’ve still never cried, in front of others or even by yourself.

You started exercising to channel all your energy, refusing to do anything more like the therapy your family suggested. 

When you were 15 you discovered SHIELD and decided you wanted to help others, so you signed up for the SHIELD Academy, working your hardest and pushing yourself to your very limit.

You ended up being not only the youngest cadet ever, but the youngest to actually graduate and then the youngest recruit at SHIELD at only 16 years old.

Natasha was very impressed when she heard about you and took a liking to you, convincing Fury to make you part of her team during her missions and teaching you everything she knows.

That’s how you ended up in the Avengers Initiative, not that you felt you didn’t deserve it since you know how hard you worked and everything you gave up to work towards this achievement. 

The team themselves were initially skeptical since you were barely 18 during the battle of New York, but they were quickly proven wrong when they saw how well you handled yourself against the Chitauri. 

You were devastated when SHIELD fell, but carried on as an Avenger, battling Ultron and then moving to the Compound with the team.

You met the actual Bucky for the first time when you were 22, during the whole Civil War thing with Baron Zemo. Like Natasha, you were on Tony’s team, fighting mostly Pietro, but the conflict eventually ended. 

It took Tony some time to get over the whole “Bucky killing his parents while brainwashed” thing, but, as he likes to say, he can’t call himself a genius without admitting that Bucky didn’t have much of a choice. 

Thanks to Tony’s help Shuri was able to find a solution to Bucky’s brainwashing faster than she would’ve alone, meaning Bucky didn’t have to go back into cryo and was pretty quickly cleared to join the team, about a year after the airport battle in Leipzig.

You were warmly accepted by everybody and, the more the team grew the more you felt at home with these people.

And now you wish you could burn down the whole compound because, somehow, Tony convinced you to have a birthday party for the first time in 13 years because, in his words, 'you only turn 25 once'.

Good news is you managed to make him limit the guest list to the team and other people close to you like Maria Hill and Fury. Bad news is you’re still gonna be the center of attention, which you hate.

You couldn’t stop Tony from making everyone dress up for the party, and you couldn’t stop the team from getting you gifts even though you insisted all you wanted was everyone together and to have fun with them since for the longest time nobody ever even knew when your birthday was. 

What you didn’t realize was that the only person more worried than you about your gifts was Bucky.

Since he joined the team the two of you have gotten close, starting with his first training with the team where he very loudly told Steve about his disbelief that someone as young and small as you could actually be an asset to the team.

You quickly put him in his place by taking him down after less than two minutes of sparring, taking full advantage of his underestimating you because he “didn’t want to hurt a pretty little thing like you.”

Admittedly he was impressed and wasn’t shy about letting you know that, while the rest of the team snickered at his initial shock when you pinned him down.

You became friends after that, not as close as you’d like but friends nonetheless.

If you were honest with yourself you’ve been harboring a little crush on the supersoldier, but he’s never shown any interest so you resigned yourself to just being his friend.

Something that you did come to treasure, though, is your and Bucky’s late night talks.

It started with you walking in on him in the kitchen on a late night where you couldn’t sleep, nothing new to you, but the two of you barely talked other than acknowledging each other.

You took a bottle of water and left.

A couple of days later you ran into him again and you stood there in silence while you made yourself a cup of tea and then left for your room.

A few days later again he was just sitting there and said nothing as you made your tea, except this time you put a cup in front of him and silently took a seat next to him at the counter.

Two nights later when you arrived at the kitchen he was already there with a cup of tea in front of him and one in front of the seat next to him.

You didn’t want to assume it was for you, but you took a chance when you noticed it was the cup you always used, a blue mug with Stitch on it that says “Let’s get weird”. Your favorite in fact.

You hesitantly sat down next to him and, without you having to ask or without even looking at you, he told you that the nights you stay up late because you can’t sleep you tend to be more quiet during the team dinners and while you hang out afterwards.

You didn’t say anything in return and just sat there, trying not to overthink how much he seemed to watch you.

But the more nights you spent like that, the more you two talked and you gathered quickly that Bucky is a very observant person, nothing more.

You loved the time you spent together after dark where you’d talk about everything and anything, but come morning it was almost as if it never happened, which you came to accept.

It weirdly made the nights you spent talking even more special, which was almost every night.

But back to the present, you’re currently getting ready with Natasha and Wanda, who know much more than you about hair and makeup and are always happy to help you out with getting ready for Stark parties. 

You put on the black cocktail dress with rhinestones all over the corset and a slit down the left side, then the three of you make your way to the party room and you take a deep breath before entering.

Everyone is already there, all dressed up in fancy clothes as they all shout “Happy Birthday”.

You laugh and say hi to everybody while they all take turns hugging you, there’s not too many people but everyone important to you is there.

Even Laura and Clint’s kids are there, which you consider a second family at this point, since Laura always did treat you like a daughter.

You hate to admit that it's a nice party.

Knowing you, everyone makes an effort to not put you too much at the center of attention and you just go around talking to your friends like every other party.

Eventually time comes for the cake and, the moment you kind of dreaded, opening the gifts.

Since it's the first birthday you allowed the team to celebrate everyone decided to go all in for your gifts, which you picked up on from the very first gift you open.

Pietro got you a first edition of “The Picture Of Dorian Gray” which is your all time favorite book, Wanda and Maria got you a leather jacket and an amazing pair of boots that you knew were expensive because you were all out shopping together when you came across them.

Steve got you a gold heart-shaped locker with a picture of the team inside it, Natasha got you a charm bracelet with a little charm to represent everyone on the team, and Sam got you a cute necklace with your birth stone on it.

When you open Fury’s gift you start laughing since it's a gun, a SIG SAUER P226 to be precise, which is very Fury.

“It was my first gun when I joined SHIELD.” He says with a smile and you smile back, knowing how much thought he put into this gift.

You open Clint’s gift next, a bow and arrow that he already taught you how to use, and Laura got you a pair of diamond earrings.

Your heart melts when you open Lila, Cooper and Nathaniel’s gifts, respectively a friendship bracelet, an Avengers action figure of yourself and a Stitch plushie.

The three of them hug you tightly as you say thank you and now you only have two gifts left, Tony’s and Bucky’s, and they’re both little boxes. 

You open Tony’s next, thinking it’s some fancy necklace or earring but you frown when you see a car key.

“Is this the key to your car?” you ask Tony, knowing full well you’re holding the key to an Audi R8 Spyder, the car Tony’s let you borrow so many times you’re now wondering if he’s gifting you his spare set of keys.

“No.” He says casually “It’s the key to your car.”

You’re even more confused and simply stare at him with your mouth gaped, not really processing the information.

“Y-you… You got me a car?!” You almost yell out of shock and everyone else starts laughing at your antics when you start basically jumping up and down and hugging Tony, squealing like a little girl.

“Well, come on, let’s go see it!” Tony says enthusiastically after you’ve calmed down, and you get up, just as enthusiastic, but are stopped by Steve’s voice.

“Wait, wait. You have one gift left.” He says, picking up the small box and giving it to you. “It’s from Bucky.”

You were so pumped up by the car, you almost forgot about it and completely miss the mischievous look Steve gives Bucky and the murderous glare Bucky gives back.

You also miss Bucky starting to protest before you open his gift, but he instantly shuts up when he sees your face falling the second you open it.

It’s a small necklace with a blue rose in it, it really looks like something you’d give a little girl more than a 25 year old woman.

You look at it for a minute, running your finger on it before you raise your head and look at Bucky.

The whole room goes silent as they all watch you worriedly, everyone noticing immediately that tears are streaming down your face.

Nobody understands what’s happening and nobody knows how to react or what to do, it’s like they’re all frozen by the sight of you being vulnerable for the first time ever. 

Meanwhile Bucky’s heart is beating so loud he’s sure everyone around him can hear it, and he feels himself starting to panic at the thought of having ruined your birthday with that stupid gift.

Everybody else got you expensive gifts and all he did was get you a small, cheap necklace that reminded him of a story you briefly talked about once on one of your late night talks about a necklace you had as a kid.

He saw it at the mall while looking for a gift for you, remembering the sweet smile you had on your face when you mentioned it and the fleeting sad look he thought he saw when you told him you lost it when you were 12.

He was really proud of himself for that gift, but the more he saw the other gifts you got the more he regretted his choice, especially after Tony gave you a fucking car.

And now you were crying, not saying anything while just looking at him.

He doesn’t know what to expect from you at the moment, nobody does, he thinks you might yell, throw his gift back at him, tell him how much you hate it and him.

But you surprise everyone by throwing your arms around Bucky’s neck, hugging him tightly while crying into his shoulder.

You honestly forgot telling Bucky about that story and certainly didn’t expect him to remember it, especially since you always got the feeling that he didn’t care about your talks as much as you.

You just assumed that come morning he deleted everything you told him to make room for more important things, and you didn’t blame him.

But he didn’t.

What you didn’t tell him about the necklace is that your mom gave it to you because blue roses were her favorite, you had that necklace since you were born but you somehow lost it the day of her funeral.

That day you lost the two most important things in your life and cried yourself to sleep, and that was the last time you allowed yourself to be weak and cry.

Until today.

Bucky hesitantly wraps his arms around you, rubbing your back hoping to get you to calm down. He looks around at the rest of the team, panicking a little and not knowing what to do.

Everyone else is as clueless as he is, never having seen you in such a state before.

Bucky starts apologizing, his heart breaking at the sight of you crying, and he feels horrible that it’s because of him.

You shake your head quickly and pull away a little to look at him, wanting to reassure him you’re not sad or angry but incredibly happy, but words refuse to come. You take a deep breath to calm yourself and finally manage to speak.

“Thank you. You have no idea how much this means to me.” It’s quiet, but it’s something, and it’s enough to make Bucky let out a breath of relief at knowing you don’t hate him or his gift.

He brings you back in for another tight hug, almost forgetting about everyone else in the room as you hug him back without hesitation.

You’re honestly not even embarrassed at crying, all you care about at the moment is Bucky, his arms around you while he lets you bury your face in his neck, like you’ve been wanting to do for years now.

“Happy birthday, doll.” He whispers in your ear and, for the first time in 13 years, you really feel like it is.

[rokupo]

i am a proud pigeon 👏

i bring sticks

[resident-idiot-simp]

Ok so one of the few things I know about the comics is Steve meets Logan in ww2 and don't realize he has a healing factor. (Also Wade is a super fan)

So I need (because fuck the timeline) Steve seeing Logan just out existing one day with Laura and Wade. He gets really confused and goes to see if his mind is playing tricks on him. Of course it's not and you have Wade freaking out and Logan just unimpressed™.

Steve is just so confused and asking a million questions and Logan is giving one word answers and shrugging him off. Laura is doing the same because she is nothing if not her father's child.

It goes something like

*Wade screaming in the background*

Steve: ...how are you alive

Logan: Healing factor

Steve: Did you always have it is that why you never got hurt?

Logan: Yes

Steve: how did you get your powers?

Logan: Born with em

Steve: Do you have any other powers?

Logan: yes

Steve: what are they?

Logan:...... senses

Steve:........who is she

Laura: Daughter

Steve: *choking*

Wade taking a break from screaming: Hi I'm his husband nice to meet you Mr. America's Ass

Steve:.....?!?!?!

[sycamorelibrary754]

Merry Christmas

Summary: It’s the most wonderful time of the year. You and Natasha are off to the annual Stark Christmas Party. Little does the team know that a special surprise awaits them.

Genre: Fluff

Pairings: Natasha x reader, Avengers x reader (platonic).

Word Count: 2.7k

Warnings: None

A/N: This is part 2 to Happy Thanksgiving! I recommend reading it first, but it can be read as a stand-alone story as well. I hope you enjoy!

“Be down in a minute, malyshka!” Natasha called from the bedroom. 

You were standing in the cozy kitchen, savoring spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter straight from the jar, drizzled with rich chocolate sauce. You jokingly referred to it as your "homemade Reese's." It was your first pregnancy craving, prompting Nat to rush to the corner grocery store at 2 am to procure the duo of ingredients.

"No worries!" You were all set for Tony's yearly Christmas gathering at the compound. Clad in a stunning green Sequin-Lace Halter Twist-Neck Jumpsuit, your tiny baby bump added an extra glow to the outfit.

Natasha's arrival was announced by the confident click of her high heels. A few moments later, she appeared in a stunning, sleek red midi dress with a scoop-back design, perfectly accentuating her figure.

"Wow, Nat, you look absolutely stunning in red. It's definitely your color," you complimented.

Her smirk grew as she put on her earrings, 'So, you're choosing it over the black?' she teased.

"I never said that, did I?" with a cheeky wink.

"Is the little one loving the homemade Reese’s?" she said, grabbing her clutch.

Absolutely!" I exclaimed, setting aside the tempting chocolate and peanut butter. "How about we whip up some delicious fudge tomorrow?

"Is it because the baby has such a sweet tooth?" Nat playfully teased.

"Absolutely," you giggled coyly.

"Whatever the baby wants, I guess," she said as she enveloped you in a warm embrace, then leaned over to plant a tender kiss on your belly.

"Are you ready to drop the baby bomb tonight?" Patting Nat's head affectionately.

“I'm feeling a bit nervous," she confessed, standing upright. "I remember how everyone reacted when they learned about Clint's family. I can't help but wonder how they'll take this news.

“They will embrace their roles as the wonderful aunts and uncles they were meant to be,” you said, grabbing your wife's hand. “Plus, announcing it with the Christmas crackers is a cute idea.”

"I hope so," she whispered before planting a gentle kiss on your lips. 

Can you believe Yelena still hasn't spilled the beans?” you asked.

"Oh, that's because I warned her that if she told anyone, I would make her run with me every morning at 5 am until the baby is born," Natasha explained.

“Well played,” you replied, high-fiving your wife. 

Thank you," she smiled. "Now, come on, let's go and get into the holiday spirit.

*^~^*

As you drove to the compound, the snowflakes delicately blanketed the landscape, creating a picturesque scene of holiday cheer. Each house you passed was adorned with shimmering Christmas lights, casting a warm, enchanting glow upon the neighborhood. You reached out to hold Natasha's hand, your fingers naturally intertwining as she pressed a tender kiss to the back of your hand, savoring the moment.

Upon your arrival at the compound, a rush of inviting warmth enveloped us as you both stepped into the lobby. Natasha brushed the delicate snowflakes from your hair and coat, her caring touch bringing a sense of comfort. Together, you made your way onto the elevator, where the voice of FRIDAY greeted us, creating a tranquil atmosphere as we continued our journey.

“Ladies, Merry Christmas, and welcome to the annual Stark Christmas party!”

“Merry Christmas, FRIDAY. How’s the party so far?” You asked as the elevator hum carried you up to the living quarters.

“The festivities are in full swing. Mr. Stark is treating the guests to a medley of lively and heartwarming Christmas carols,” FRIDAY explained.

"Of course he is," you chuckled.

“He only plays that baby grand after a few drinks," Nat added. "After our month-long covert op in Romania, we flew back, and he decided to mark the occasion with a tipsy performance of ABBA’s Dancing Queen.”

"Ah, I can't believe I missed it!" you groaned, pretending to be disappointed.

As the elevator doors slid open, the vibrant red and green decorations instantly caught your eye, along with the magnificent 12-foot-tall Noble Fir Christmas tree that stood proudly in the heart of the common area. It was evident that Pepper had poured her heart into adorning the tree, carefully draping it in an array of colored lights and delicate silver and gold ornaments. The festive ambiance filled the air, evoking a sense of warmth and holiday cheer.

"Look who's here - the Romanoff's have arrived!" Clint cheered as his kids eagerly ran over to greet you and Natahsa.

As Nate leaped into your wife's embrace, you welcomed Lila and Cooper with warm hugs. Each time you saw the Barton kids, it became apparent that they had grown a little more. Banner and Cho made carrying a child that would be a combination of both your and Natasha's genes possible. Observing the striking resemblance of Clint and Laura's children to their parents, you eagerly anticipated discovering which traits your little plum would inherit from each of you.

Natasha leaned in and planted a kiss on Nathaniel's cheek. "How's my little namesake?" she grinned. "Have you been practicing those punch and kick combinations I taught you?

"Practicing the what?" Laura asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Oh, nothing,” Natasha flashed a sly smile as Nate burst into laughter.

"You both look amazing! The green and red combination is really working for you," Clint said.

Thanks! I have to say that your Christmas sweater is quite lovely. I really dig Rudolph's glowing nose." You don't see that very often!” You teased.

“Hey, the Barton’s are the cream of the crop when it comes to ugly Christmas sweaters.”

“Clearly,” Nat stated.

"I’ll take your coats," Cooper graciously offered.

"Wow, thank you. What a gentleman," you said as you handed him yours and Natasha’s pea coats.

Looking around, you spotted Wanda adding the final decorations to trays of delicious Christmas cookies. You put a hand on Nat’s shoulder and motioned toward the kitchen. She gave you a quick nod as you meandered over to the counter. 

"Wanda, Wanda, Wanda... What do we have here?" you inquired with a sly grin.

Y/N! It's so good to see you," she exclaimed, her arms wrapping around me in one of her signature warm and comforting hugs that I always loved. "This is my parents' famous Christmas cookie recipe," she proudly announced, holding up a worn and stained piece of paper. "I managed to convince Tony and Pepper to let me take charge of the desserts this year. So, we've got batches of freshly baked cookies, the decadent Viennese torte chilling in the fridge, and the pumpkin pie just coming out to cool on the counter.

Wow, you've been keeping busy," you said with a smile. "Is there anything I can do to lend a hand?

"Sure, you can take a cookie and go mingle. I'll be finished in a few minutes," she said, handing you a delightful cookie shaped like Santa. As you bit into it, you were amazed. It was the most delicious cookie you had ever tasted.

"Wow, Wanda! This is fantastic!" you exclaimed excitedly.

"That's exactly why I'll always champion homemade goodies over store-bought ones. Now, come on, go join the fun," she said, playfully shooing you away.

You turned around to see your wife, elegantly positioned by the fireplace, conversing with Steve with a champagne glass. As you began crossing the room, Kate and Lucky, adorned in festive attire, intercepted your path.

"Y/N! It's been ages! How have you been?" Kate exclaimed, her face lighting up with excitement.

"Hey, Kate! It's great to see you and Lucky enjoying the party," while giving the Golden Retriever some affectionate pets.

"Kate joyfully exclaimed, "Yes, say hello to Santa Paws and Mrs. Claus!" Sadly, we can't seem to find Yelena. She's our dedicated elf." Kate glanced around the room with concern.

Wait, Yelena is actually dressed as an elf?!" Your eyes widened in surprise. "Oh, that's fantastic.”

“Yeah, if you see her, will you send her our way? We’re supposed to take the photo for our holiday card tonight,” Kate explained.

"Nothing would make me happier," you said with a smirk and a hand resting on Kate's shoulder.

You bid farewell to the young archer and her loyal pup before rejoining your wife.

"Hey detka," Nat greeted, gently wrapping her arm around your waist.

"Y/N, I was just telling your wife that she needs to find her holiday spirit and come Christmas caroling with us next week," Steve stated.

"Natasha singing? I'm not convinced that would do wonders for the community's morale," you quipped.

Nat giggled at the remark, "Says the woman who performs one-woman tributes to Harry Styles in the shower?"

“Hey" you interrupted, "I'll have you know that my performance of Sign of the Times has been receiving high praise.

A moment later, Tony and Pepper joined your little group, with Morgan walking alongside them.

"Hey there, Romanoffs! You've got to taste this amazing Hot Buttered Rum," Tony exclaimed.

I adore Hot Buttered Rum, but I'm in the mood for some sparkling cider tonight," you explained. "I bet Nat would enjoy some, though. Don't you think, sweetheart?”

"Sure," she said, grabbing the glass from Tony's hand. Steve looked back at you curiously.

As you looked down at Morgan, who was sitting on the cozy ottoman next to the crackling fireplace, you couldn't help but feel a deep connection. Ever since you discovered that you were expecting a baby, your heart has been inexplicably drawn to children in a way you had never experienced before.

"Hey there, cutie!" you exclaimed to the young Stark. "You're looking lovely tonight," as you crouched down to her eye level.

"Thank you, Aunt Y/N," she said with a big grin.

“Are you getting excited for Christmas?" you inquired. "You're at the top of Santa's nice list this year!

“Really?!” Morgan squealed.

"Definitely! I have a feeling the man in red will bring you some amazing surprises this year," you winked.

Hey, did you hear that, Daddy? Aunt Y/N just told me that I'm at the very top of the nice list!

“I sure did, squirt. I didn’t realize Aunt Y/N was so tight with St. Nick,” Tony said, eyeing you coyly.

"Of course, we're on a first-name basis. I'm amazed you're not," you said with a smirk, looking at the billionaire. You had a strong bond with Tony, treating him like a brother, but you couldn't resist teasing him.

Trust me, Mrs. Romanoff," Tony said with a smirk. "I'm way closer to Santa than you are.

“Do you have a direct line to the North Pole?” You countered.

"Are you getting milk and cookies flown in from Holland? You know those are his absolute favorites," Tony remarked, giving you a knowing look.

"Alright, that's enough," your wife said as she touched your shoulders from behind. "You both know Santa. You both have giant egos. Merry Christmas," Nat mocked. "Come on, Tony, let's grab some hors d'oeuvres for our better halves. I'll be right back, detka," she said, leading the billionaire toward the kitchen.

You couldn’t help but admire Natasha as she walked away. Looking back over her shoulder, she smiled at you with all the love in the world. You just about melted right there in front of the fireplace. Snapping out of your love daze, you noticed Pepper grinning at you.

“What?” you asked.

"Oh, nothing. I just can’t help but notice how glowing you look tonight," Pepper said as Morgan pulled her away towards Clint’s kids, while Steve strolled away to join Bucky in conversation with Rhodes.

"Hey, psst... psst!" a voice suddenly whispered.

You suddenly spun around just in time to see a styrofoam snowball hurtling towards your face. With lightning-fast reflexes, you snatched it out of the air smoothly.

"Good catch," a Russian voice exclaimed.

"Yelena, where are you?" You glanced around, but couldn't see my sister-in-law anywhere.

"Over here!" she called out, peeking from behind the towering seven-foot snowman beside the pool table.

"Aww, you look absolutely adorable as an elf," you giggled.

Yelena's voice was barely audible as she uttered, "If you weren't pregnant with my niece or nephew, you would be hanging upside down from the rafters right now."

"Do you know that Kate and Lucky are looking for you?" you asked.

“Why do you think I’m hiding behind the enormous snowman? Kate Bishop forced me to dress in this saccharin American Christmas costume, and now she wants photographic evidence of it.” Yelena said.

"Because she loves you, silly," she said with a smile, arms crossed over her chest.

"Dinner time, detka. Let's go," Natasha called out and then abruptly halted, bursting into laughter at the sight of her sister.

“Tred carefully, sestra,” Yelena threatened. 

Nope, I'm loving this. Isn't this the new mission suit attire?" she said, playfully tapping the bell hanging from her elf hat. "Maybe we can convince Stark to level up this outfit with some Widow Bites action.

“Do you have a death wish?” Yelena sneered.

“Come on, you adorable elf, it’s time for dinner,” you say as you place an arm around your best friend’s shoulder.

*^~^*

As you sat next to your wife at the elegant Astoria Grand Giovani dining table, the soft touch of Natasha's hand sent a gentle warmth through you. You turned to her and caught her shy smile; her cheeks tinged with a rosy, festive blush.

Pepper rose from her seat beside Tony at the head of the lavishly decorated holiday table. With warmth in her voice and a genuine smile, she addressed the gathered guests. "Before we savor this delectable holiday spread, I want to express our deep gratitude for every one of you being here," she said, gently clasping Tony's hand. "Every person in this room understands the preciousness of life, and we cherish every moment together. We want you to know how much we love you, and we wish you all a Merry Christmas."

"Cheers!" Thor exclaimed a few seats away, raising his glass as clinking filled the table.

The festive Christmas feast brought an abundance of delightful dishes to savor. The centerpiece was a perfectly roasted turkey, surrounded by tempting trimmings. Freshly baked bread, creamy mashed potatoes, and garden-fresh vegetables, delicately roasted and complemented with balsamic vinegar, graced the table. Laughter filled the air as the group indulged in cheerful conversation and shared a medley of lighthearted, albeit incredibly corny, jokes.

As the evening progressed, pregnancy mood swings began to intensify. Amidst the gathering, a wave of emotion washed over you as you and your extended family relished the holiday season together.

"Y/N, are you alright?" Carol's eyes held a deep sense of concern as she gazed at you from across the table.

Oh, yeah," you say, dabbing at the corner of your eyes with a napkin. "I'm fine.

"The holidays always tug at her heartstrings," Natasha covered, resting her head on your shoulder.

After your delicious dinner, you assisted Wanda in setting up the dessert spread. Placing the Christmas cookies in the center, you carefully arranged the Viennese torte and the pumpkin pie on either side. As the evening progressed, you passed around coffee and dessert wine; all enjoying the company and the sweet treats.

The room was filled with the cozy warmth of full bellies and slightly sleepy eyes as the group relaxed in the living room. Soft, enchanting Christmas music filled the air, creating the perfect backdrop for the kids' lively discussions about their Christmas wishes and what they hoped Santa would bring them this year.

"Alright, Kate Bishop, let's hurry up with this photo. I can't wait to change into my pajamas," Yelena declared as she reluctantly rose from the couch.

You got it! Stay right there. Come here, Lucky," Kate called out as the dog happily bounded over. "Vision, could you snap the photo for us?

"Of course, Ms. Bishop," he said, confidently taking the Canon EOS R-50 from the archer's hands.

“It is customary to say cheese before a picture, but since it is Christmas time, perhaps you should say mistletoe?” Vision inquired.

"Just take the picture, you overgrown toaster," Yelena said dryly, a hint of impatience in her voice.

Kate's voice echoed through the room, 'Mistletoe!'

"Hey, we're getting one of these cards, right?" you eagerly looked at your wife.

“I had Kate put us down for two,” she smirked.

*^~^*

As darkness descended, you leaned back and rested your tired head on Nat's comforting lap, feeling the soothing sensation of her fingers gently running through your hair.

Natasha glanced at her watch, noting the late hour. "Are you ready to drop the baby bomb?"

"I'm as ready as I'll ever be. I'll grab the Christmas crackers," you declared, getting up from the sofa.

"Hey everyone, Y/N and I have a surprise for you," your wife nervously announced as you handed out the gold and silver novelties to the team.

"Christmas crackers? Seriously? I was expecting something a bit more extravagant… Oww!" Tony complained as Pepper playfully pinched his arm.

You smiled nervously, your heart racing as you reached for Natasha. The snap of the festive crackers echoed merrily across the room. Clint's eyes lit up as he was the first to reach inside and carefully remove the tiny gift from the cracker. The little round ceramic white ornament, delicately tied to a vibrant red ribbon, appeared in his hand, reflecting the warm glow of the holiday lights. Lila, Cooper, and Nate, their faces filled with excitement and curiosity, eagerly huddled around their dad to get a glimpse as Clint slowly turned the ornament to read the inscription, a moment of joy and togetherness shared by the entire family.

"Uncle Clint?" he read, looking up at Natasha in complete shock.

Sam couldn't believe it and shouted, "No way!"

As Wanda, Carol, and Kate gazed upon their unique ornaments, they couldn't help but shout a collective scream of joy. Each ornament proudly displayed its name, followed by the cherished title of "Aunt."

Thor exclaimed, 'This is joyous news!'

Pepper jumped to her feet and wrapped you in a bear hug, while Laura did the same with Natasha.

“How far along are you?” Wanda asked.

“Almost three months,” Yelena cut in.

"Wait, you knew?! Why didn't you tell me?" Kate yelled, slapping her girlfriend on the arm.

“Because I want to sleep in!” Yelena shouted.

"Nat, I'm thrilled for you," Steve exclaimed, gently kissing her cheek.

Bucky enveloped you in a warm embrace, planting a soft kiss on your head.

"Are you ready to take on the role of Uncle Bucky?" You lock eyes with him.

His face froze in sheer panic, like a deer caught in the headlights. “Oh my God.”

“You’ll be great, Buck,” you chuckled. 

Bruce and Helen wrapped Natasha in a warm, heartfelt embrace, simultaneously holding her close from both sides.

Helen turned to you with a look of relief. "Now that everyone knows, we can openly discuss your pregnancy," she said. "Have you been taking your prenatal vitamins regularly?

"Don't forget, you've got an appointment on Friday," Bruce said.

Without a second thought, you replied, "Yes and yes," as Natasha leaned in to gently kiss your cheek, followed by another on your belly.

Tony swaggered up to you with his trademark smirk playing at the corners of his lips. Bracing yourself for one of his classic Stark one-liners or a cheeky joke, you were entirely taken off guard when he unexpectedly enveloped you in a comforting and heartfelt hug.

“Congratulations, Romanoff,” Tony said. “It looks like you do know Santa best.” 

[hessobbingincabo]

David Nakayama’s Hellfire Gala (2022) Magazine Variant Covers

(open images for higher quality)

[tvarchive]

ROBIN BUCKLEY AND STEVE HARRINGTON — in Stranger Things 3 | “Chapter Eight: The Battle of Starcourt”

[2346khith]

Hot Take

I've mentioned how marvel should just let Peter Parker retire as spider man and just live a happy life with Miles taking up the mantel. However, at least in my personal opinion, a lot of the heroes in the marvel universe should just retire. Let Steve permanently put down the shield for Sam to take up by himself and let Steve become the director of shield, or let him retire into helping the next generation of heroes or heck let him have a more mundane life as an artist(yes Steve is an Artist look it up). Let Logan give Laura the mantle of Wolverine for real(yes going by talon of the time I'm writing about this) and let him try and find his new place in this world, which in it of itself is an interesting concept. What happens when the marvel universes greatest fighter no longer wants to fight. Let him soul search on who wants to be and then let him build a cabin in the Canadian wilderness for him and his kids become a bartender or a normal teacher at Xavier school. Heck I already mention Peter settling down and starting a family with Mj, and honestly there are a lot of marvel couples who would do the same (heck when gambit was given spirals soul he saw it as a baby which in the context of the marvel universe souls appear as what you want literally meaning he want kids and he already been shown to be very fatherly towards some x men members (let rogue and gambit adopt!!)). In short, I think marvel should learn to let go of their characters and let them grow up with the readers, not just spider man. But honestly that my opinion and feel free to put in your ideas instead.

[strangenewwords]

X-23: Target X (2007)

[lihiominaa]

ANDROMEDA 5.05. The Eschatology of Our Present

[itsagentromanoff]

Steve: You're still gonna have to back up the Cupid claim.

Cupid: Ok, fine. [points to Clint] Laura, [points to Bruce] Betty, [points to Tony] Pepper [points to Steve] Peggy. My sincerest condolences. [Rhodey] Erica in London, Carol, [points to Tony] Not Tiberius or Rumiko. [points to Bucky] Dot, Marjorie in high school, Tammy in eighth grade, [points to Tony] Quill, T’Challa, Steve, Maya, Johnny Storm, Steve again, Frank Castle, Reed Richards [Rhodey and Bruce look at Tony surprised] Matt Murdock, Stephen Strange, Steve and Bucky.

[solokabuto]

Reading X-23 (Laura Kinney)’s backstory and everytime it cuts back to the present Cap is brooding like shit and Matt Murdock is just in the background with the most pained and frightened look on his face bro, he had to be he most distraught catholic in America atp

[braveclementine]

And Life Goes On

Warnings: None

Copyright: I do not own any Marvel characters or locations. However, I do own my OC Elizabeth Lightwood. I do not condone any copying of this.

The song for the wedding ⬆️(Try not to cry) 🥹

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"I hereby declare the three of you, husbands and wife." The priest at the front of the altar said and you watched as Steve and then Bucky drew Elizabeth into a kiss. You smiled, biting your finger as you cried.

"Hey." Tony whispered in your ear as he clapped, "So, as her best friend, you need to draw all of the juicy little details of their sex life out of her, so I can tease Cap about it during work, okay?"

You giggled nervously, bouncing Arlo on your knee, while wiping away a tear. "I don't want to become magical shish kabob."

Tony held out his hand. "Come on, hand Arlo over to Natasha and give me a dance."

You did just that, letting Natasha hold Arlo where she was sitting with Clint, Laura, and the kids. Both women were on either side of Clint, the three of them just sort've snuggled up together.

Elizabeth was blushing as her two new husbands twirled her between them on the dance floor. She was wearing a pale pink dress that nearly looked white, but wasn't quite. It had long sleeves despite the warm summer, because she had been afraid that her arm would clash with the colouring.

You took Tony's hand and he led you out onto the dance floor. Both hands on your waist, and you put both of your arms around his neck. You were so glad you'd worn heels for this.

"I can't dance." You said after stepping around for a bit, cheeks fiery red. Tony was grinning from ear to ear.

"You're adorable."

"Shut up."

"What?" Tony asked, "You know bunnies are very graceful animals. Clearly, it's come over to you as a human."

You snorted, "You thought I was graceful as a rabbit?"

"Naturally."

"Okay you did see me on your paneled wood floors right? Every time I tried running on that surface I'd crash face first into your kitchen cabinets. And don't even get me started on the marble. You just didn't see it."

Tony grinned, "You know, I think I'm going to marry you again."

You raised an eyebrow, "Oh? Are you now?"

"Yep." Tony said. "There's people who get remarried for anniversary's, right? Nah, who cares, I'm doing it even if others don't."

You shook your head in amusement. "Ah, so you like what you see so much you'd marry it a second time."

Tony scoffed, "Is that even an actual question?"

"Also, for like, people's fiftieth anniversary." You laughed.

"We're getting close to that amount of time, right?" Tony asked, peering at you. "I think I can see some wrinkles."

You smacked his arm playfully. "Better than you, Mr. I got gray hair now."

"And I look dashing." He said in a pompous, almost British way of speaking.

"Well, hard to argue with that." You smiled.

After a few dances, the two of you grabbed some cake, sitting with Bucky and Sam who were playfully arguing. You watched as Steve and Elizabeth danced in their own world, their foreheads pressed against each other, both of them with their eyes closed. Some old song was playing, echoing around the venue.

[Play Song]

*Cue Steve and Peggy endgame scene but replace Peggy with Elizabeth obviously*

You smiled a little as Steve opened his eyes, looking down at her, before kissing her. But the spell was broken- for you at least- as Sam roared with laughter and you turned your attention back to the table.

Eventually, it went from being a large venue with people that Steve, Bucky, and Elizabeth knew, to mostly being just some of the Avengers.

Rhodey, Clint, Natasha, Bruce, Steve, Bucky, Tony, Sam, yourself, Elizabeth, and Thor- who was looking a hell of a lot better.

You were all chatting sort've off handedly before Clint asked, "So um, has anyone heard from Wanda?"

"No." Sam shook his head. "No she's off radar."

You noticed Elizabeth was fiddling with her napkin. She probably knew and wasn't saying a word.

"Maybe she went home. . . or the closest she could get to home." Rhodey shrugged.

"Elizabeth?" You asked.

Elizabeth sighed, "She uh, she's in New Jersey."

Everyone looked at her, "Doing what?" Clint asked.

"Vision um was looking for houses and gave her an address there for where they were going to move and possibly have a family." Elizabeth muttered. "I think she really just wants to start over."

"Okay hold up, how do you know all of this. I couldn't even find her." Tony frowned.

"There is um, this Government-"

"Here we go." Steve muttered.

"-organization called S.W.O.R.D." Elizabeth finished, playing with her fingers. You immediately felt bad for putting the attention on her, on her wedding night. "I went with her to the building because apparently they took Visions' body after the snap."

"Wait, they did?" Tony asked sharply, angrily. "He's my property!"

Elizabeth shrugged. "Anyways, Wanda was a mess and when the two of us left, she said she was going to a house Vision left her."

It was silent for a moment and you saw Tony tapping on his tablet. "Tony." You groaned.

"Well that's interesting." Tony muttered.

"What?" Natasha asked.

Tony flicked the screen to show the video that he had pulled up. It showed Wanda going all Scarlet Witch style, stealing Visions body. Then Elizabeth- though it didn't show her face- running after her as though helping her.

"Oh hell no." Bucky growled.

"Well, this looks like a lot of fun." Rhodey said.

"Hey." Steve said, putting an arm around Elizabeth's shoulder, looking at the rest of them, "At least with this new problem, all of the Avengers will be together to solve it."

"Oh yeah." Tony smirked, "I did tell you guys the Accords are gone, right? No one wants them anymore. We're all free to be a team."

"Oh for sure." A new voice said, making you all jump. You turned to see Nick Fury there, with Carol on one side of him and Maria on the other.

"Hey Nick." Elizabeth called over casually.

"Congratulations Mrs. Barnes-Rogers." Fury greeted her, then looked around at the others. "So, you still want to be the Avengers?"

"Don't need your permission." Tony laughed, flipping the video off the table, tucking his tablet into his pocket.

"True." Fury smirked, "But it's given to you anyways. I trust you know what to do with that. And you don't have to worry about Maximoff. Although, Y/N, I'm actually here to talk to you."

"Yeah, sure." You said, getting up and heading outside of the venue with the Director. It felt like you'd known him forever. You'd met him as a rabbit, he'd given you somewhere to have your kids. He'd protected all of you, had even died for all of you. He was like the father of the Avengers in a weird way.

"So," Fury said, pulling out a small folder, giving it to you. "Your parents are out. You want me to put some injunctions against them seeing you?"

You were silent for a moment. You looked at him. "Fury. I have faced Obadiah Stane, Justin Hammer, a guy who had liquid fire in his veins, Chitauri, Loki, HYDRA, being on the run, an Avengers Civil War, being on the run again, almost being raped by a guy who looked like burnt chicken, Thanos, and Thanos again. I don't think two measly little sixty year olds who just got out of jail scare me anymore."

Fury nodded, looking like he was almost smiling. "Glad to hear it Agent Stark. For a moment, I almost thought you might've lost your training."

You punched his shoulder lightly. "Are you staying for dessert?"

"Nah. Carol is heading back to space tomorrow so Maria and I are going to be spending as much time with her as possible." Fury said with another small smile. "Or who knows. . . maybe I'll go to space too. You've all been after all."

You laughed at that and nodded, "Alright then. See you around Fury."

You headed back inside and sat down next to Tony. "There's something I want to do."

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You knocked on the door of the house that your parents lived in now. Tony and you had flown back to Nevada for a quick visit. There were some things you needed to say and do. Tony waited in the car on the street anxiously. The door was opened and you saw that it was your mother.

"Y/N." She said softly.

"Mom." You said sharply.

The two of you stared at each other, then you walked through the door. Your father was in the living room, watching TV and you snapped it off.

Your father looked up at you and then scowled. "So, you have the nerve to return here after I was so kind to let you-"

"Well," You interrupted him, "I'm glad you think you were kind. Because you weren't. And I'm not back here to stay. This is the last time I will be seeing you. But there are things I never got to say, and I'm going to say them now."

You looked at both of them, "Firstly, you were shit parents. I may never know why you hated me, why you favored my brother over me, but you were shit parents. And not even just from the beatings." You glared at your father, "Or the attempted rape."

Your mother looked at your father and you wondered if she hadn't known.

"You were just shit parents in general. Not a single crumb of love was ever given to me unless it was for show and that damaged me growing up. Made me insecure, made me pathetic. But I got what I was looking for and now I'm better than you ever thought I was going to be, aren't I? I'm married to Tony Stark now, I'm an Avenger, and guess what: I'm no longer scared of you."

"I'm no longer the little girl that cowered under the two of you. Hell, I even have a pretty cordial relationship with my brother." You looked at the both of them again. "I hope you two change. I hope you two stop being the terrible, horrible people that you are and maybe live out your last days in some semblance of happiness."

You headed for the door when your mother said, "I couldn't. . . I couldn't love you."

You stopped, looking at her.

She looked down at the ground, "You weren't mine. Aren't. . . mine." She glanced over, "Your father slept with one of the women down the street. Got her pregnant. Her husband agreed not to divorce her if she gave the baby away so we were landed with you."

You grew cold at that, realizing that someone had watched you grow up here, knowing you were actually theirs. "Who?"

You mother looked up and you looked at them, "Which mother?"

"Don't." Your father growled.

"No, it's fine." You said suddenly. "Tony can just run DNA tests."

Your mother sighed, "Sherry Lightwood."

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"Bleh." Elizabeth groaned as the two of you sat in the park, watching all of your kids running around. Well, most of your kids. Steve, Bucky, Sam, Stephen, and Tony sat off to the side, holding the little two year olds. "Yuck. My mother and your father? No wonder you're so ugly."

You punched her shoulder. Hard. She didn't wince and you cradled your fingers, forgetting her arm was now Vibranium. She flicked her fingers as you and your own fingers stopped hurting as turquoise swirled around them. "Stupid."

This time you tased her in the side with two fingers. And this time she yelped, falling over, clutching her side. "I've been stabbed! Stabbed I say." She cried out dramatically, the two of you starting to wrestle.

"Don't hurt her Y/N." Tony called out lazily.

Steve just snorted.

"Bucky save me." Elizabeth cried dramatically and the metal armed super soldier picked her up in his arms, sitting down with her in his lap. Elizabeth looked over her shoulder and stuck her tongue out at you. You narrowed her eyes at her, flipping her off.

"Children," Stephen chastised, which made Sam and Tony laugh.

Elizabeth just curled up into Bucky, eventually falling asleep. Steve took her from Bucky so he could hold her while she slept.

"How is she really doing?" Tony asked.

"She's good, really." Steve nodded a little. "Still getting used to the arm a little bit, but other than that, she's good."

Bucky chuckled about something that he didn't elaborate on and Sam shot him a glance with narrowed eyes, "What?"

"Oh. . ." Bucky said. "Steve just really-"

Steve clapped a hand over Bucky's mouth, glaring at him, "There are kids around. And Stark doesn't need that sort of fuel."

"Oh yes." Tony waggled his eyebrows, "Details please. What's the sex life like?"

You slapped a hand to your face, "Tony!"

You all continued to talk before you yourself was laying your head in Tony's lap, watching Everleigh and Astrid run across the green grass, flying kites together. It was such a peaceful day. Sure, there would be problems along the way.

They'd have to solve this new S.W.O.R.D. vs. Wanda problem. There would be problems all over the place with new super soldiers and other kinds of missions.

But this sort of peaceful life would continue as well to be navigated.

Because life goes on, no matter what.

[rokupo]

when they tag your fave ship in a hate post

[resident-idiot-simp]

“Is it really you Lucky James?” Steve asked because he still couldn't believe it.

“I go by Logan now, but yeah.” Ja-Logan answers and Steve feels as his world tilts on its axis.

“How…?” Steve asks unsure how to even complete the sentence.

[abduloki]

X-23 : Target X #6 (2007)

That time Steve Rogers released X-23 from SHIELD's custody.