#yelena belova x stark reader

[arlana-likes-to-write]

Second Chance - Chapter 18

Masterlist

Warning: small angst, lots of fluff, jealousy, The Barton Home

Word Count: 2.2k

Note: Sorry this is a very short chapter. Mostly a set up chapter

“We are landing shortly,” Yelena told you. You nodded and put your sketchbook away. Keeping Yelena’s eyes off the drawings was difficult since they were the sketch for her new suit. You wanted to keep it a surprise as long as possible. A lot more needed to be done, but it was a good start. You zipped up your bag and looked out the window.

There wasn’t another house in sight. The trees were bare of their leaves, and there was a light dusting of snow on the ground. The Barton’s home was white with green shutters that matched the green roof. Smoke was coming out of the chimney. It was cute. You could only imagine the property in the summer with the trees lush and full and flowers around the house. “Are you ready?” Yelena questioned. In your daydream, you missed her landing the jet a few feet from the house.

“Yeah,” you smiled and stood up. You glared at the blonde, who refused to let you take your main bag—now Yelena was carrying three—but she silenced you with a kiss and led you down the ramp.

As soon as your feet hit the ground, the ramp retracted, and the jet started. At a safe distance, the jet took off and flew back to the city. “Damn,” you whistled. “I really have to talk to Tony about his AI programming.” The blonde shook her head.

“You are such a nerd,” Yelena teased. You shrugged and continued the walk in silence. The silence was oddly comforting. Even in the cold weather, it felt like a warm blanket. Suddenly, a man you recognized as Hawkeye jogged over to you from the house. His face was pinched with annoyance, but his eyes had a fondness to them.

“I told you to wait for me, and I could help you with your stuff.” Yelena huffed.

“I am more than capable of carrying the bags, birdbrain,” the man rolled his eyes and hugged Yelena. You saw her body relax against him even when he stole a bag from her. “Clint, this is Stark’s kid,” she said when the hug ended. “Y/n, meet Clint Barton.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” you offered Clint your hand, but he pulled you into a hug. Your body tensed up at the sudden contact, but you understood how easily Yelena relaxed into him. Clint was arm and smelt of sawdust and lavender.

“Nice to meet you too,” he smiled and started the walk to his home, probably a little slower than usual. “Everyone is excited to meet you. Laura has the guest room set up for you both, and Lila has not stopped talking about her horses to show you. I-”

“My baby!” Yelena cut off Clint’s sentence. The Black Widow dropped the bags to the ground and ran to meet a gold retriever. She fell to her knees and allowed the dog to push her to the ground. You glanced at the man next to you. Clint shrugged, and you both picked up her dropped bags.

“I’m telling Fanny you are playing favorites,” Clint teased. Yelena sat up, whipping the dog droll off her face with her sleeve. You made a mental note to have her wash her face before she kissed you. You got a better look at the dog when you got closer. The golden was missing an eye, but it looked like an older wound, healing nicely.

“This is Lucky,” Yelena introduced. “Technically, he is Kate’s dog, but I love him.” You knelt beside her. Lucky looked at you suspiciously, but you held out your hand so he could sniff it. It took no time for Lucky to move closer and lick your face. Ew. Gross. You scratched your nose and stood up. Yelena laughed at your reaction. Now, you followed Lucky to the house where the rest of the Bartons were waiting.

The eldest, Cooper, took your bags into the house while Lila and Nate welcomed you with a smile. Like her husband, Laura hugged you. Her hug reminded you of your mom’s -tight, warm, and full of love. You had to bite your lip to stop your tears from falling.

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

When you returned from the bathroom, Yelena pushed Lucky out of your spot. The dog sighed in annoyance and circled a few times before lying at the foot of the bed. With a soft laugh, you climbed into bed, and Yelena moved closer to you. Her head rested on your chest, and her blonde hair was braided, but you still ran your hand over her hair and down her back. You felt her melt into you. Your mind circled back to the day you had with the Bartons.

When Yelena told you that you would be meeting the Bartons, people she considered family, you were stressed. It felt like you were meeting her parents, and you wanted to make a good first impression.

Honestly, it was easy to fall into the routine with them. Nate, who you learned was named after Natasha, gave you a grand tour of the house, and he insisted that you help him put a puzzle together. After he got bored, you joined Cooper and Yelena on the couch. The duo was playing a fighting game, and you watched them as you drew them in your sketchbook. You declined the invitation to join. Video games were not your strong suit. Mainly because your mom never bought any of the consoles.

Once Laura started dinner, you joined her in the kitchen and tried to help. She ordered you to sit and cut the vegetables. It was simple work, but you were grateful that you could help. Dinner was served (you snuck in a nauseous pill that Clint caught you taking), and you listened to the stories shared around you.

Sighing, you kissed the top of Yelena’s head and inhaled the vanilla body wash. When you were younger, you dreamt of your future a lot. You never saw yourself ‘settling down’. Instead, you always wanted to be on the move and explore the world. Everything got derailed when you got your diagnosis. All of your plans changed. “Do you want a life like this?” You asked. “Away from all of the fight.” She was quiet, and you allowed her to gather her thoughts.

“I do not think I deserve a life like this,” her confession caused you to freeze. Your hand stopped at the middle of her back. Finally, your brain caught up to what she said. You shifted down so you were face to face with her. Lucky huffed and climbed off the bed, clearly annoyed by the movement.

“Why do you think that?”

“I have too much blood in my ledger to leave the fight,” you smiled sadly and cupped her face in your hands.

“You deserve light, Yelena, because you shine so brightly.” The blonde grabbed onto your wrist. Her hands were always so warm - the contrast shivered down your spine.

“You do not know everything I have done.” That was true. Regardless, you knew the person she was now.

“I don’t need to know because I know your heart is good,” Yelena opened her mouth to argue, but you hushed her, kissing her. You wouldn’t be with someone like me if your heart wasn’t,” the unsaid words lingered. Someone who was dying. You can tell me your story one day, or you won’t. It won’t change how I see you.”

Her green eyes glossed with unshed tears. You thought a few tears would fall, but the blonde moved on top of you. Her lips were frantic against yours. It was impossible to keep up with her, so you relaxed against her lips and allowed her to take what she needed. A low moan came from the back of your throat, but the sound was captured by Yelena’s lips. It seemed to spur her on more. It was too much but not enough. You wanted more. You wanted-

Suddenly, Lucky’s bark caused you both to jump apart, and Yelena rested her head on the crock of your neck. Her breath tickled your skin. “Petukh blok(cock block),” Yelena mumbled in Russian.

“It’s your fault,” you teased. “You are the one that wanted the dog in here.”

“I love him,” you heard the pout in her voice. Smiling, you pushed her off, and she whistled for Lucky to return to the bed. The golden circled at your feet and laid down. With the addition of Lucky, you could still move Yelena back into your arms with her back pressed to your front.

You felt her fingers play with your hands. “Thank you,” she whispered.

“Of course, baby.”

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

Somehow, you managed to escape out of the bedroom without waking the blonde. It helped that Lucky took your spot, but you were next expecting to fight for the blonde’s attention with a dog. Truthfully, you thought it would be a child who walked on two legs, not four. You walked into the kitchen with a sketchbook and made a cup of tea. The water was boiling, and you opened it to a blanket page. Lightly, you sketched out the Barton family. They were people you did not want to forget.

You heard footsteps, so you poured two mugs of hot water to let the bags steep. It was Clint. The older archer wasn’t fazed by your appearance in his kitchen. “Are you a tea drinker, Clint?”

“No,” he answered. But Laura is trying to make me one. I drink too much coffee. “You smiled and watched him grab sugar and honey. You stirred the honey into your tea while Clint poured a few teaspoons of sugar into his mug. He grimaced at the taste.

“You have a beautiful family,” you said. “Thank you for letting me come here.” The man looked at you. A part of you worried that you said the wrong thing. “I’m sorry, but did I say something wrong?” Clint shook his head, took another sip of the tea, and dumped it in the sink.

“I’ve been trying to figure you out,” your eyebrows raised to your hairline. Now that you thought about it, you noticed Clint watching you the entire time you were here. “Why are you here?” He questioned. You weren’t sure how to answer that. It felt like a trick question.

“Because Yelena invited me?” you said slowly. I don’t know what you are asking.” The archer opened the fridge and took out a beer. He offered you one, but you declined it with a shake of your head.

“Why inset yourself into their life when you aren’t trying to stay?” You inhaled a sharp breath and felt the pencil between your fingers crack from the force you were squeezing it.

“I-” you opened and closed your mouth a few times. “What happened to you and your family when the Blipped happened?” Clint took a long sip of the beer and stared at the countertop.

“Laura and the kids were part of it,” he said. “And I was left behind to pick up the pieces.” You nodded.

“I lost my mother before the Blip,” you began. “Then I lost my best friends for 5 years. During those years, I was all alone. I was alone when I got sick, and when my doctor gave me my diagnosis,” you took a sip of the tea and allowed the warmth to push away the cold. You were regretting leaving the bedroom. “So yes, I could die, and yes, Morgan is right there as an option, but do you know the risks and complications of a bone marrow transplant,” Clint shook his head. “Organ damage, bleeding, VOD,” you listed off. “And if I manage to void all of that, I could possibly get cancer again.” You removed your hands from the mug because you feared shattering it.

“I am going to fight this, Clint. I just don’t want to do it alone anymore,” Clint’s face softened, and he circled the counter to stand beside you. You weren’t sure when you started crying, but you felt him push away the tears.

“It’s okay,” he said and hugged you. “You are not alone.” A few more tears stained his shirt.

“Sorry,” you mumbled and pushed out of his embrace. “I forgot how much I miss hugs.” You managed to smile. Clint’s smile was small, but he gently touched your shoulder.

“You are a remarkable young lady,” the sudden conversation change gave you whiplash. “Just don’t hurt Yelena. I’d hate to have my son’s new best friend on a hit list.” You laughed, remembering Nate calling you that at dinner.

“I won’t.”

“Get some sleep, kid,” Clint finished his beer and placed it in the sink. “Good night.”

“Night, Clint,” you watched the archer return to his room. Sighing, you finished your tea and cleaned up the mess. You took your time as you walked back to the bedroom. Instead of returning to bed, you stared at the scene before you.

Yelena was fast asleep, Lucky’s head resting on her chest. It was a cute scene, but you were getting tired. Gently, you tapped Lucky. The dog huffed but remained in your spot. “Come on, move.” Finally, Lucky moved and allowed you to get back into bed. The dog glared at you. You stuck your tongue at him.

“Are you fighting with a dog, baby?” You jumped, not expecting Yelena’s voice. You huffed and cuddled next to her.

“So what if I am?” You pouted. Yelena chuckled and kissed your forehead.

“No one is stealing me from you,” you sighed. Good, you weren’t ready to let her go.

_

Taglist: @likemick, @averagetmblrusser, @wandaromamoff69, @simpforyelenabelova, @cd-4848, @simpforyelenabelova @nymph0puppp, @sparks123123

[winnysplayground]

“i can fix her, i can fix him, i can fix them”

i think we need to work on you first.

[alixandra-multifandom-version]

Writing fanfiction isn't enough anymore I need that character to kiss me breathless

[chaxan08]

Yelena Belova, ever since her debut in the MCU, especially after the Thunderbolts trailer:

Yelena: It's not my fault I help girls realize that they're lesbians.

[ladylokilaufeyson5]

HASHTAG HEROES | AVENGERS SOCIAL MEDIA AU

Pietro Maximoff x fem!reader

Warnings: swearing, mentions of stabbing and bullying (all jokingly)

i’ve been reading so many avatar smau’s so i decided to make an avengers one. should i continue?

[writersblockedx]

Wedded Under War: Chapter Three

Pairing - Mafia!Bucky Barnes x Fem!Reader, slight Bestfriend!Steve Rodgers x Reader Summary - The stress of the new mafia coming into town leads you and Yelena to let your hair down at a local bar. A few drinks in and you come up with the idea to visit Barnes.  Warnings - Mentions of violence, alcohol use, sexual implications  Words - 2.1K

< Previous Chapter // Next Chapter > Masterlist

The information laid heavy on your heart. All of it seeming to consume you in that moment as you sat on one of Tony's leather sofas, sipping at a glass of bourbon. You should have known there was more to this than what they were telling you. When wasn't that your position they put you in?

The apartment was empty at this time. Steve and Natasha had returned to their own homes while Tony had taken Pepper to somewhere fancy. For a moment, you appreciated the silence until it made your thoughts too loud to ignore. The only thing that broke you out of such was the click of the front door opening. Instinct took over as you reached for your gun that laid over the glass coffee table.

You aimed it at the intruder, only to find Yelena Belova staring back at you with a laugh. Sighing, you placed the weapon back down and returned to your whisky. "I see the meeting with Barnes put you on edge." She observed, waltzing over towards the sofa as she threw herself down beside you.

"Tony's not here." You informed. Yelena only ever made an appearance when Tony needed some dirty work doing. She was good at her job, didn't ask questions, and got the job done every time. It was no surprise when you found out she was Natasha's sister; they shared their career motivation that was for sure.

Yelena shrugged and leaned further back into the pillows. "Guess I have the night off then." Her thick Russian accent hit your ears with a breath. A moment passed when you didn't say anything and the girl took it as an opportunity to take in your state. "I hear you found out, about the tracksuit mafia. Harsh way to get word that's for sure."

"Tony should have told me." You thought aloud. "So should have Steve," Your head turned to face the blonde at your next words, "And Natasha."

"Oh, don't start with me." Her hands threw up in defence, "I agree with you. But they like the idea of the little Stark being protected, safe from that side of things."

"I'm only a few years younger than Natasha!" You argued. "Hell, there's not much between us."

She could only shrug, "I'm not plagued with the Stark name."

You took another gulp of your drink until it was empty, "Lucky you." A huff fell from your lips as your back fell into the sofa so hard you thought it might swallow you hole. Your gaze fell to Yelena as an idea crossed your mind. "You wanna go out?"

She barely looked at you as she considered it, shrugged and said, "Sure."

So, with such a simple answer, the two of you threw on some different clothes and headed to one of the most bustling spots in the city. Roxy's was a bar in the midst of the downtown. The perfect spot, neutral ground, owned by an up-and-coming DJ rather than your brother or Barnes. Not to mention, the drinks were much cheaper.

You ordered a martini while Yelena stuck to the whisky. The two of you turned, facing the different crowd of drunken New Yorkers. Some groups conversing over booths, some others on the dance floor who were far too drunk for 10 pm and then the two of you leant against the front of the bar simply observing.

"Do you ever wish you had that?" You queried, staring over at the group of girls on the dance floor who seemed to not have a care in the world. Waltzing around in short dresses, letting their drinks sway in their hands as they danced alongside prying men. Something you would have been shunned for doing, told you knew better than to be so stupid and reckless.

"What?" Yelena laughed as she glanced between the girls and yourself. "Embarrassing myself in front of a couple of jocks? No, not really."

Your head tilted at Yelena. "Not at all? You don't wish you had maybe gone to college, had some fun? Rather than spending your life obeying orders from my brother? Holding a gun everywhere you go? Always looking over your shoulder?" 

Yelena practically sighed in her drink. "I've not had enough for this conversation."

"So you do?"

The girl thought for a moment, gazing back at what could have been. "I did the best with what I was given. This life," She gestured to where they were standing, and what they were drinking. "It's not so bad as what I've had in the past." You nodded at her words before feeling her shoulder nudge against your own. "Real question is, why didn't you? All that Stark money, surely it bought a one-way ticket to some Ivy League."

"You'd think so." You took another long sip from the alcohol. "Tony wanted me close. Maybe I was naive to think I could build a nice life while in the job."

"And now you don't think you'll have that life with Barnes." She realised.

You almost giggled at her words because the answer was so obvious. "Come on, it's Bucky Barnes we're talking about. What nice things can you say about him?"

"He does have a nice house." She offered.

"Yeah, I just have to live with him." The pros did not outweigh the cons that was for sure.

You watched as Yelena chugged the rest of her drink, sitting the empty glass firmly back on the bar stool. She spun back around, facing you as she extended her hand. "Come on then,"

With knitted brows, you asked, "What?"

"You want a taste of the college life, whatever bullshit you're yearning for, let's do it."

Your mind wanted to decline at first, but the careless expressions on the girls were all too enticing. You wanted that. Even if it was just for one night, you wanted to pretend there wasn't a worry taunting you. To forget of the marriage that awaited you, of the violent mafia which were on their way. It was calling you. So, without a second thought, you interlocked your fingers with Yelena as she pulled you onto the dance floor.

A chorus of cheers came from the group of girls who no longer danced alone. You painted a smile at your lips, attempting to not keep giving second glances to anyone you would normally label a risk. Instead, you kept your eyes on Yelena, sipping at your drink as the music blared through your ear drum. 

You gulped on your drink until it was empty. Yelena going to buy the next round. Before you knew it, you were four rounds deep and truly, you didn't have so much of a care for what might go wrong. It hadn't even crossed your mind the idea that someone might be about to pull a gun out. For the moment, it was nice. Until a tipsy idea slipped through your thoughts. Something Steve had said yesterday. You might not have a choice in marrying Barnes, but you might be able to control what you could get out of it.

Your swaying slowed in the realisation. And you suddenly had the urge to go confront the man at that very moment - despite the fact it was reaching midnight. "Yelena," You called.

The girl flicked her hair around as to face you, her expression moulded into one of concern when she took in your stance. "What is it?"

Your gaze drew from the floor, "I'm gonna go talk to Barnes."

"You're gonna what-?" You were already turning to leave until Yelena's hand caught your own, "Y/n, what the hell are you thinking?"

"I'm just talking to him." You assured.

She looked at you as if you had gone insane. "It's midnight." She pointed out.

But, to her shock, you had simply shrugged, "I know." You continued walking, only gazing back at the girl as you spoke, "Get home safe." You had no doubt she would. Yelena Bolvova had made it evident she knew how to take care of herself.

So you called over a taxi, slipping into the back as you gave him Barnes' address. You followed the same route, exiting the bustling nightlife of New York. In its replacement, you were left with the Barnes Manor. You left the taxi, practically throwing money at him as you headed towards the bodyguards at the door. "Can we help you?" Asked one of them.

"I'm here to see Barnes, tell him little Stark's here." You knew that name would be enough to open the door for you.

The bodyguard nodded to her co-worker before the front door opened for you. Waiting inside was Rumlow, a gun already in hand. "You didn't call ahead." He spoke, without any greeting or smile.

"I'm here to talk to him, to agree to all of this," You offered up as a response. "Peacefully."

Rumlow wasn't certain to trust you. For that, you didn't blame him. "You smell like booze." He observed first. "He's in his room-" That's all you needed to hear until you took off for the stairway. "I wouldn't!" Rumlow warned you as he stayed stuck in place in the foyer. 

You probably should have listened to what he had to say before exploring the second floor for Bucky's bedroom. It hadn't taken much deducing. There was one room with double doors; it had to be his. Only Bucky would be pretentious enough to have double doors leading to his bedroom. So, without any doubt or second thoughts, you pushed your way through into the room.

"What the fuck!" Came a screech.

You barely had time to understand what you had walked in on. A topless Bucky, an almost naked woman who had since jumped up from the bed, using Bucky's t-shirt to cover her bare skin. "Stark?" Bucky questioned as if he couldn't quite believe you would be here at this hour.

The unknown woman faced Bucky, "You know this bitch?" She snapped.

You weren't going to say anything until she called you a bitch. "Please, I'm his fiance."

That seemed to only add fuel to the fire. She threw on her clothes, staring daggers at the man who hadn't moved from his relaxed position on the bed. "Fiance? What the fuck, Buck! You didn't tell me that." He did nothing but shrug as she reached for her belongings, tears welling at her eyes. "Don't you ever call me again." She warned, shoving her way past you and out into the hallway where she made her escape.

Which left Bucky's eyes to trail over your body and the outfit you still hadn't changed out of since the club. You'd be a hypocrite to say anything, to pretend as if your eyes hadn't danced around his bare chest, cursing yourself for finding the sight attractive. This was Bucky Barnes you had to remind yourself. "Sorry about erm- interrupting." You finally broke the silence, watching the smirk that tugged at the man's lips.

"It's fine." He shrugged. "She wasn't all that pretty anyway." In your opinion, she had been. She had been the definition of conventionally attractive, but of course, that still wasn't enough for Bucky Barnes. "Why are you here is the real question."

"I wanted to talk." You suddenly became awkward, not moving from your spot in the doorway as Bucky sat at the edge of his bed.

"You came all this way at midnight...just to talk?"

You only had one reason for such, "I got drunk."

You had been lucky when Bucky laughed rather than yelled your way. "Of course you did." He drew from the bed, still without a shirt, as he wandered towards you, his height watching over you.

It was a difficult job to keep your heart from racing. A man so close. And in such a state, you weren't sure if you wanted to continue what you had walked in on or slap his face. "I thought about it and as much as I hate to say it, you're right. This isn't about us. But if we do this, get married, whatever, you have to involve me. Every meeting, every fight, whatever it is, I want to know."

Bucky held onto your every word, yet his smirk never faded. His next words were ones you had never been privileged enough to hear. Not from your brother or Natasha, hell, not even Steve. And you would question why the hell it was Bucky Barnes who was the one helping you get what you wanted. "I was always going to involve you."

Taglist - @barnesxstan @sebastians-love @ghalouha @mrsnikstan (Let me know if you would like to be added or removed) x

[its-really-dry]

y/n: ok so here's the tea *slams papers on the table*

kate: omg spill!

peter: wait i need to get the snacks

yelena: lemme get my notepad

steve: im slightly confused... tea?

tony: wait tea? hold on im getting my blanket

wanda: *sigh* honey, its called a mission report

[hellokittyyyysblog]

𝓛𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝓸𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓫𝓻𝓪𝓲𝓷/ part 1

Pairing: vampire!𝚗𝚊𝚝𝚊𝚜𝚑𝚊 𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚡 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚛

Summary: You work as an intern at a prestigious law firm, dedicating countless afterhours to your tasks. One seemingly ordinary late night, you encounter a mysterious individual who reveals a discovery that shatters your perception of reality and everything you once believed in. This fateful meeting sets off a chain of events that will forever alter the course of your life.

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5

- - -- -- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -- -- - -

It was dark outside, though you only knew by chance. You had caught a fleeting glimpse of the night through a window as you passed by a coworker's office—a brief reminder of the world beyond the law firm's walls.

Working after hours had become routine. Since starting as an intern, you'd quickly realized that your official duties were merely the tip of the iceberg; unseen responsibilities piled up off the record. The firm demanded your efforts but refused to pay for them, yet clocking out on time was a surefire way to lose your job— you'd witnessed it happen to many diligent workers.

The company expected unwavering devotion; free time was a luxury reserved for those at the top. If you wanted to keep your position, you had to play their game, allowing your superiors to exploit your fear of unemployment. They dangled potential futures before you and the other underpaid interns, but in the months you had been there, no one had been promoted who wasn't already wealthy and privileged. Still, you were determined to become that someone, enduring the unethical treatment and the all-consuming nature of your work. You believed that someday it would all be worth it; the challenge lay in enduring the suffering long enough to reach that point.

After all, it was your goal to do what made you most proud in life and felt natural: defending people. You were a natural at it, always standing up for classmates when they were unfairly called out by teachers for some unknown reason or when someone picked on your friends.

You were the one your friends turned to when they were in trouble, the one who could see through the noise to the heart of the matter. — It felt like a calling, an inner drive to protect and advocate for those who couldn't do it for themselves. You had envisioned the courtroom as your ultimate arena, where your skills and passion would converge to champion justice.

Little did you know, your world was about to take a drastic turn.

Lost in your thoughts and consumed by exhaustion, you found yourself staring out the window— the dark cityscape a blurred mosaic of lights.

Suddenly, the sharp click of heels behind you snapped you back to reality. The sound echoed through the empty halls, reminding you of where you were. You turned around to see Ava, your coworker; her short black hair moved with a graceful sway, catching the faint light from the hallway lamps. Her features, distinctly European with delicate French contours, gave her an air of sophistication.

She was more than just a coworker; Ava was your closest friend in the firm. Both of you had come to the States for college—she from France, you from Italy—making a bond over shared experiences of adapting and striving in a demanding professional world.

"What are you doing here so late?" she asked—her voice filled with genuine concern.

"I could ask you the same" you replied, managing a tired smile.

Ava blushed slightly and glanced around to make sure no one else was nearby. "I had a... meeting. Or more like a hookup, actually— with Louis. You know, one of the senior partners? We've been seeing each other secretly."

You raised an eyebrow and smirked. "Louis, huh? I knew it. You can't hide anything from me. How's that going?"

She grinned, a playful glint in her eye. "It's complicated, but he's been really good to me. Just trying to keep it under wraps, you know?"

"Yeah, I get it. Just be careful; this place is a minefield."

Ava nodded, her expression turning serious. "I know. But enough about me. What about you? Why are you still here?"

"I was just going through some old case files and doing some research" you explained. "I was actually about to head to Davis's office to update him on a case we've been working on."

“He really pushes you to work too hard, and no, don’t defend him anymore” she remarked with a sympathetic expression. “AND we haven't hung out in SO long….how about cocktails on Friday?"

You smiled "That sounds perfect. I definitely need a break."

"Great! It's a date then" Ava said with a wink. "Well, I'll let you get to Davis's office. Don't stay too late."

"Thanks, Ava. See you tomorrow"

You both exchanged goodbyes, and you watched as she walked down the corridor—the sound of her heels fading into the distance as you made your way to Davis office. The cold air was making you shiver and the thin fabric of your black slacks and white blouse were not keeping you warm enough. Each step of your high heels echoed softly in the quiet hallway, the usual bustling energy of the office now replaced by a serene emptiness.

Reaching Davis's door, you knocked firmly—the sound punctuating the silence. After a moment, the door cracked open, revealing his assistant, Emily, peering out with a polite smile.

"Hello" she greeted warmly. "Can I help you?"

"I was hoping to speak to Davis" you replied—trying to hide your discomfort from the chill— "I have an update on the case we've been working on."

"Ah, he was actually looking for you. He's in Bowman's office" Emily informed you.

"Thank you, Emily" you replied gratefully, offering a brief smile before saying your goodbyes.

Great. You thought, while making your way to bowman’s office.

Interacting with one of the two CEOs after such an exhausting day wasn't something you relished. Bowman was notorious for his tough demeanor and demanding expectations, and you couldn't shake the apprehension as you headed towards his office— and you weren't exactly looking forward to interrupt his meeting either.

You knocked on the door of his office, expecting to be called in, but you were met with more silence. Emily had said, Bowman's office, you knew she had. — Yet you couldn't even hear someone approaching the door to let you into the room. So you stood there like a deer in headlights.— If your presence was needed, surely you'd be expected to arrive at some point.

You were torn between knocking again and seeming impatient or standing in the hall like a clueless know-nothing. Both impressions were unflattering.

However, you'd rather look too eager, than not eager enough. So you knocked again. This time, you heard murmuring inside. You weren't sure if someone was being instructed to open the door, or if you were being instructed to enter. After another moment of waiting with your mouth hanging open, you took a deep breath and reached for the door handle.

The door didn't open slowly, but it felt like time stood still as the moment you had eyes on the room— you saw Bowman hunched over the desk, blood trickling from his lips. Davis lied lifeless across the tabletop.

Before you could inhale a breath, Bowman was in front of you, with a hand clamped over your mouth. He swiftly pulled you inside the office and locked the door behind you. It took no time at all, but you knew it happened.

"My, my, my, who do we have here…seems like I got myself a delicious midnight snack" Bowman taunted. His chin was dripping with blood that ran down from two prominent fangs. You'd never seen those before.

You wished you had a witty retort, but you were too stilled with fear. He was going to kill you, after maybe taking advantage of your body—that was how things like this worked, or at least that was what films would have you believe. As far as you'd known, vampires weren't real, but crazy men were. Yet you weren’t certain that you were being threatened by that very monster.

"At least you’re still warm”

If you could scream, someone would know. If you could make a lot of noise, they'd catch him in the act, even if you were dead by the time they arrived. You had to make noise.

You couldn't.

But then, you didn't have to. — Bowman’s steely eyes lifted from your face. His jaw tensed and his nostrils flared.

"So they've sent the dogs after me?" He said.

Your vision was obstructed by Bowman’s frame, but someone had entered the office from the window—There hadn't been a sound, yet Bowman hadn't needed to turn around.

"Did you think they wouldn't?" The second voice was the audible equivalent of silk with a twinge of a feminine Slavic accent. "And obviously I came at the right time. How did you plan to clean this up, youngling?"

Bowman’s grip on you waned and he spun around. You hadn't realized your feet were off the ground until your soles hit the floor once more. Bowman reached for your shirt collar to keep you near. At a different angle, you were able to see the woman. She had red hair that complimented her strong features and dark green eyes; like Bowman, she too had longer canines.

You were in awe of her despite feeling the need to stay present in the room—Yet somehow, her presence had made you feel safer—She was clearly unhappy with your boss, but you had no evidence that she would let you live once she was done with bowman.

As if she knew your inner monologue, she addressed you whilst still looking at Bowman. "Human, you may leave."

“Oh no, nope she’s not going anywhere."—Bowman didn't let loose of your shirt.

The woman finally made eye contact with you, and you felt your chest tighten. It felt like the first time someone had ever made eye contact with you—someone had ever seen you. As soon as it happened, it was over just as quickly,and the woman was looking at the man beside you. Her head tilted like a cat sizing up its prey. Whatever she was thinking, whatever she was planning with that look, was not good, but you felt oddly sure that you were not her focus.

It took no time at all for the woman to cross the room. You didn't even catch it with your eyes; she was a blur. But you knew she had to be faster and stronger than Bowman, as she had him in less than a second. His hand was no longer attached to you. You were free. It happened so fast that it didn't register. You were transfixed by the red-headed woman hoisting Bowman up into the air. His feet dangled despite the fact that he was nearly a foot taller than she.

"Human" the redhead said calmly, without looking at you. "Is this your boss?"

"Yes" your mouth felt dry—it was the first time you'd spoken since Bowman had dragged you into the room.

"Then I would say that considering the time, you have the rest of the night off."

Understanding why moving would take some time—but you'd regained enough of your faculties to know that it was time to leave. With a squeaked, "Thank you" you exited the office—The door closed behind you without a need for effort on your part. Whatever the woman was going to do, she didn't want an audience.

You looked disheveled, and your eyes were still wide and pleading for safety, though you were alone and, as far as you knew, you were safe. Though no one would see you and think 'Vampire attack interrupted' if someone took the time to spare you a glance, they would see a person who had clearly experienced something out of the ordinary. You were not the same as you'd been when you'd entered the boss' office—in more ways than one.

You hurried to your office, grateful for the late hour and the deserted offices that ensured no one noticed your swift departure as you gathered your belongings. Amid the quiet corridors, a solitary light emanated from the closed door of the office opposite yours, a reminder that you weren't entirely alone in the building.

Unbeknownst to you at the time, Bowman's parting grip had left a faint smear of blood on your jaw—It went unnoticed until you caught your reflection in the elevator doors.

The front desk attendant gave you an habitual: "Have a good evening."

"Thanks" you managed to say. Your voice was a bit shaky, but the attendant didn't notice. He actually looked at you, but you knew it was a part of his routine. He'd send you all off, nod in your direction, and then he'd go back to his computer. At least someone had acknowledged you, you thought—though, he was as oblivious as anyone else. The front desk was probably not the best place for a person who apparently had tunnel vision.

∘₊✧──────✧₊∘

The chill of the night greeted you as soon as you stepped outside, accompanied by a wild wind that seemed to howl through the air. You knew the sound was just the wind—familiar yet eerie after your recent encounter with the supernatural. If vampires were real, as you were now certain they were after what you had witnessed, then the possibility of werewolves seemed just as plausible.

You took a deep breath, trying to process everything. Your supervisor was dead, and your boss—a vampire? It was all so nonsensical, yet you had seen it with your own eyes. The memory of her, pale and powerful, lingered vividly in your mind.

Lost in your thoughts, you didn't notice the red-haired woman who appeared suddenly in your path until she was right in front of you. You gasped and instinctively took a step backward. The woman made no move to invade your personal space; instead, she stood calmly, confident that you wouldn't flee. Despite the flight alarms blaring in your mind, you found yourself rooted to the spot.

"Human” the woman said. It was a word you had never been addressed with before, yet tonight it had been uttered several times already in reference to your kind. Despite knowing it to be an undeniable fact, hearing yourself labeled as merely 'human' felt oddly surreal. Normally, you might have laughed it off or made a light-hearted comment or a teasing remark, but the intensity in the woman's eyes quelled any inclination for humor or banter.

"You cannot tell another about what you witnessed tonight."

She was fast. She must have “finished” Bowman while you were in the elevator—maybe even before. You envisioned the nightly cleaning staff stumbling onto a horrific crime scene. You liked the night staff, they didn't deserve to clean up such a mess—disposing of viscera was not in their job description.

"I won't" you replied. The thruth is you wanted to tell someone; holding in that kind of information was going to make you sick. But you knew, deep down, that the moment you opened your mouth, others would think you were insane. "No one would believe me."

"Unfortunately, that is a chance I cannot take." the redhead woman replied with a gentle, almost mocking smirk.

You instinctively took another step back, feeling the edge of the wall against your back. People streamed out of the building, oblivious to the tense encounter unfolding just steps away; oblivious of the fact that maybe those were your last moments on earth.

"You don't have to—" Your voice faltered, shaky with fear. The woman's threat hung heavy in the air. If she intended to kill you, there was little you could do to stop her. You had witnessed her power in action, if only briefly, and it left you unnerved. You gulped, "I won't say anything. I promise. You don't have to kill me." Maybe you should’ve said something more convincing than “I promise”when someone was about to take your life. Did promises bring any value to her kind? She would’ve never believed you.

She arched a brow, studying you with a mixture of amusement and disdain—her frown deepened, as if she disliked your assumption. It was clear she was capable of violence and you were uncertain if she had any inclination towards mercy. Her words had left little room for interpretation—she intended to eliminate any witnesses, and you stood alone as the only witness.

"I do not wish to kill you" she said. Her voice was so soothing that it made your shoulders soften. You hadn't realized how stiff you'd gone.

Her presence held power over you, and when she said she didn't want to kill you, you believed her.

"Then what do you want to do? I meant it, I won't tell anyone. I don't even know your name."

"And you won't. I will take away the memory of tonight for your safety and the safety of my people."

"Your people...you mean uh…"

She nodded and made no effort to verbally confirm your suspicions.

You were silent as you stared at the confirmed vampire in your presence. She was mysterious in a very dangerous way—but a feeling was burning in your stomach. It felt like a need, but you hadn't a clue as to what you needed and how the red-haired vampire could help you.

Apparently, her way of helping you was erasing a piece of your mind. Maybe that was an exaggeration, but she had expressed the explicit desire to tamper with your memories.

It would feel better, you sensed that much. You knew that the shock would go away, as would the fear, and unanswered questions. But, with those negative things would go the knowledge that you as a human were not alone. Knowledge was power, even if you weren't sure how to wield it yet.

"I don't want to forget" you admitted quietly.

When the woman approached you again, you didn't step back. "I want to know what happened to my friend.”

The vampire reached out and rubbed away the blood from your chin, she hadn’t asked, and you didn't need her to. You stood still and let her.

"You want to remember the way he met his end? for what purpose?”

"Someone should know; someone who knew him."

"And when your boss is missing and you know the truth, what will you say?"

You weren't sure how to answer the vampire's question. Everything had moved so fast, you didn't have time to plan what you'd say to everyone else.

"I don't know."

She considered you, and most likely what she was going to do with you. You weren't convincing, you knew, but she hadn't acted without consulting you. So maybe, just maybe, you had a way out of having your mind wiped.

"Go home, human" she said—and you thought you'd taken a kickball to the gut—you were taken aback so abruptly.

She was letting you leave, or so it seemed. "You have twenty-four hours to consider this choice. I hope you will see reason. I will find you tomorrow night."

You should have focused on the deal the vampire was making you, rather than the fact that she was promising another meeting.

Maybe she would answer some of your questions.

Maybe she would satiate your curiosity.

Or maybe she would make you forget she existed at all.

"How will you find me?" you asked— It was a wonder, but it was one of the last questions you should have asked— she'd scaled a building and entered through a window without so much as a sound. She could find you easily. You wasted your breath asking a question that didn't need to be answered.

"Don't worry about me. Keep your wits about you, and your mouth closed. Consider my offer and the alternative. Your knowledge is yours for now, but understand that should you speak of this night to anyone in the next day, my offer will be revoked." She said before turning around and disappearing behind the crowd.

The vampire woman was not suggesting that she'd lay off and leave your memories alone. She was suggesting that you and your knowledge would cease to be. She was essentially giving you a day to come to your senses and realize that you wanted to forget the ordeal.

But you were stubborn and embarrassingly naive, and she was too interesting to forget. You had to figure out a way to keep your knowledge and gain some answers in the process, if only for a chance to see her again.

- - -- -- - ┈┈∘┈˃̶༒˂̶┈∘┈┈ - -- -- - -

[yourmcu]

Ace

Pairings: Natasha Romanoff x Gamer!Stark!Reader, Avengers x Reader

Summary:

Your girlfriend, your dad, along with the rest of the Avengers, support you during a VALORANT tournament.

Word count: 4.6k+

Warnings: too much VALORANT descriptions, you can google stuff about it if you want to get a good visual of this story, basically an avengers fic as a whole but i love supportive gf nat >:(

A/n: one of the drafts I left a long time ago! I miss writing for the avengers, so I decided to finish this one.

(completely italic dialogues - casters commentating)

All the hollering from the lounge died down when Natasha practically shoved both Sam and Bucky off the couch, stealing the TV remote in the process. Their basketball game can wait, her girlfriend’s tournament is more important.

“Oh, shoot. Y/N/N's tournament is today?” Sam suddenly remembered and Bucky made a quick detour out of the lounge to fetch Steve and possibly the others. They kind of promised you they'd support your game this time around, with the knowledge that they had free time on the dates of your tournament. Sam snapped his fingers, “Snacks. I'll be right back.”

No, you weren’t a professional athlete; if anything, you’re the opposite. Your wrists move more than your whole body most of the time, you only stay an hour or less in the gym, and you prioritize getting better in Aim Lab than a shooting range.

Ever since women playing in VALORANT E-Sports were normalized, you were one of the anticipated gamers to compete, of course you were on board and signed on to an esports organization and team roster. You’ve made a name for yourself in the gaming industry because of your high IQ and big brain plays. You used your head in every match, every round unlike the majority of the players mindlessly aiming and not landing shots. Because of your career, you’re known for something else and not just Iron Man’s daughter.

Natasha didn’t like the fact that you were glued to your computer most of the time at first. She thought Tony spoiled you too much even as an adult, but she later on realized that you graduated with a degree before settling into gaming. You worked for the Avengers, sometimes as an IT for a big company which paid more than you needed. You were basically set. All of this while you were still pretty young, a little younger than Natasha.

It’s safe to say all of Natasha’s doubts went away. She felt rather impressed and took a liking to you, which developed into something more over time.

From her phone, you chuckled when you heard Sam and Bucky’s shuffling. “We’re not up for another thirty minutes, babe.” On your end, you and your team were with the event's coordinators backstage of the actual place the tourney was held. Natasha always called you before and after your events, just because she was the best supportive girlfriend ever.

“I know, I wanted to set everything up before anything else,” Natasha put you on speaker while she dealt with the TV’s settings. You smiled to yourself, absolutely adoring your girlfriend even more when she was eager and supporting your games. “Are you guys still at the hotel?”

You had to travel out of the country for the tournament. As much as Natasha wanted to go with you (Clint wanted to go too because he ‘needed a break’, you just rolled your eyes at him and laughed), being a full time hero and an Avenger doesn’t mean you get to travel 24/7. She has to be with the team in case something terribly wrong happens, which doesn’t come with a warning. “Backstage, actually. Cloud9 and Misfits are wrapping up their last match right now,” You replied. “I've already warmed up at the hotel earlier. It's crazy how our room fits all of our PCs.”

“Ah, c'mon, you don't need no warm-ups!” Sam teased, hearing you on speaker as he walked back with refreshments and an assortment of chip bags.

You giggled, rolling your eyes at the Falcon’s words. “Stop it, Sam. You know me; I always get tilted when I play too much before the actual competition.”

Sometimes you get anxious and it affects your performance, same goes for when you warm-up too much; you lose focus the more games you play, leaving nothing for the tournament.

Despite Natasha's excitement to watch your team play, she’s not too vocal about it. She wouldn’t squeal when it starts or bombard you with loud encouragement through the call, because one, she doesn’t want to be the embarrassing girlfriend, and two, she’s the Black Widow. She’s naturally subtle about everything. You knew her more than anyone else though, so even if that was the case, you still felt her support.

Thirty minutes went by quicker than you’d hope, you were so caught up in watching the game of the other rivaling teams and commenting on everything that happened whilst still in the call with Natasha. You also answered Bucky’s queries when he came back; he’s only ever heard of e-sports since you started competing in it. He couldn’t imagine how hard switching point of views and the player’s face cameras must be. Bucky has only watched, what, actual live game tournaments, basketball or chess or whatever. It was confusing to him at times, but you told him he’d get used to it eventually just by taking note of the red and blue colors.

You were cut off by one of your teammates placing a hand on your shoulder, signaling you that it was time to go. “Alright. Nat, I have to go, I’ll call you when I get back?”

The two men were the first ones you heard react, Sam shifted in his seat excitedly while Bucky wondered out loud if he should call Tony, Peter, and Bruce, who were all unnecessarily working overtime at the lab.

You felt yourself smile again when she spoke. “Okay,” Natasha bit her lip, feeling anxious about the tournament, “I love you.”

“I love you.”

“Good luck!” Sam shouted before you hung up.

Natasha almost snorted when she heard loud footsteps coming towards the lounge entrance. Her sister had the worst timings ever.

“Someone decided to take a long shit while we were heading back. Has Y/N’s game started yet?” Yelena walked in as fast as she could with Fanny, looking at Natasha expectantly as she shrugged off her thick coat and got out of her boots. Fanny ran to where the couches were as soon as Yelena removed her leash, wagging her tail happily without a clue in the world.

“About to, but you did miss her on the phone.”

“Ah, fuck.”

Soon, Bruce, Tony, Peter, Wanda and Vision came down to watch as well. Your tournaments were one of the occasions the team had the chance to bond and get together in one room, it definitely helped with the morale as Steve would think, and they have you to thank for that.

Everyone was just in time to see you walk out to the stage with your team and the opposing one. You were in your team jersey and arm sleeves with your teammates behind you in a straight line.

Tony woot-ed, plopping down next to Natasha. “Heard Y/N/N's team is going up against a brand new team roster. This should be a piece of cake for her, eh?”

Peter sat down beside him, looking at the said rival team with yours, all lined up on stage. “I don't know about that, Mr. Stark. One of them recently went viral after getting five aces on a ranked game. She's radiant, too.”

Admittedly, he also played VALORANT with you and Ned, but often miscalculates his strength as he frequently breaks his keyboard or mouse because of freaking out whenever he sees an enemy. His reflexes and fighting skills were better off used in real time.

“And Y/N/N's been on the top ten leaderboard for, what, six months?” Tony challenged, evidently confident in your skills.

The chatter on who's better than who died down when both teams sat down on their respective computers. Though it wasn’t that noticeable to most people, Natasha noticed it right away: you were wearing the necklace she gave you. You considered it your lucky charm.

After both teams chose the maps they wanted to ban and maps they wanted to play, the game started.

You mostly play the character - or agent - Killjoy. The agent reminded you so much of yourself from her overall vibe and game mechanic: she had utility to aid the whole team, from turrets to alarm bots, and an ultimate that conducts lockdowns on any part of the map. You were so used to that character that you even played her on maps she’s not very helpful at because you mastered everything about her, which made you stand out from other players as no one would dare use characters on maps they weren't good in. Gears were practically turning in your head as the game loaded.

Then, the first game commenced.

The Avengers always made noise whenever you got a kill, or whenever the casters praised you for outsmarting the opposing team, which Steve and Bucky appreciated because it was hard for them to distinguish whether or not you did something good.

Your team easily won the first game. The Avengers were now watching your tournament on the flat screen TV like a bunch of teenagers watching a romcom, all giddy and filled with anticipation.

“Look at that, 13-1? She’s insane." Bruce shook his head. A team needed to win at least 13 rounds to win, if it's neck and neck, 14, or they may choose to go into overtime.

“I’ve never seen Y/N play with that kind of aggression before; they don’t stand a chance.” Wanda pointed out. She liked to spectate from the side whenever you played at the compound, whenever she could.

Natasha’s lips turned upright when they replayed your team’s best moments. One included your one versus three clutch, in which you threw a taunting, questioning look at the opposing roster across the stage after you effortlessly took out three enemies on your own. It was like their heads weren’t in the game at all.

The team laughed when they showed the exact clip of your face camera mocking the other team across the room. Natasha liked that about you; sure you were reserved and shy in general, but she loved it when all your confidence just comes out while you’re out there.

Another clip was when you had a problem with communication, so you weren’t aware that there were enemies around. Your character didn’t stop running because of that and you were exposed to two enemies. You reacted fast and jumped, pulled out your vandal to shoot both of them in the face.

Tony clapped his hands together at that moment. “Let’s go. Let’s fucking go, Y/N/N.”

Natasha, not all that phased on your brilliant play, could still not contain the smile on her face as she plopped back down on the couch.

“What? Wait, hold on, how did she even-” Sam looked back at everyone while they reacted to the highlight. He didn’t exactly process what happened because you moved too fast.

“God reflexes,” Yelena shrugs, not looking away from the screen. Wanda laughs in agreement.

After a bit of commentary and commercials, it was on to the next match on a new map.

Now, Natasha did not know the difference between the multiple maps at all, but she did remember you mentioning that your weakest one had to do with ice.

The next match was on a map called Icebox.

So, she watched intently as your team took a little while during the agent selection. But in the end, you decided to go for Killjoy again. Natasha could only guess what you had in mind to pull off another win.

“This is highly unusual for [Team Name] Y/N, isn’t it? Right now she’s watching the flanks when we usually expect her to be out there with a duelist to try and take picks!” The caster exclaimed, looking at their partner caster. “She’s one of the strong sentinels who you would trust to be by your side - and look at that, she takes out two already, they did not expect anyone to be holding the flank!”

“But she's using Killjoy again - couldn't she have gone for Cypher or Sage? Then again, they already have Skye on their team.”

Even though you were trying to play smart in this map, you still hated it, it was your weakest one. Still good, but not all that great. The opposing team seemed to know the typical Killjoy strategy on the Icebox map. You got sniped every round and your setups were way too predictable to the opposing team.

Soon, the score was 4-10. It was definitely not good to be on the end of only winning four rounds. Your team had to win the remaining rounds or hope for the best and go to overtime, or you lose this game and go onto the third one which would be way nerve racking and increase the odds of losing.

“Intense match so far we've got here. With [Team Name] Y/N at the bottom of the leaderboard this just has to be a miracle for [Team Name] to get a second win and move on to the next round.”

“There's also a bit of a setback with her shots in the last few rounds. I guess this is when we get to see if she's learned a thing or two from her girlfriend, right?”

Natasha rolled her eyes. “They honestly did not have to bring that up.”

The other commentator expressed confusion at their partner's comment.

“The Black Widow! [Team Name] Y/N's been dating her for the last couple years. Honestly, where have you been?”

Everyone groaned as they started bringing your dating life to the conversation when they should be sticking to the game. Tony chose to laugh it off to and ignore the annoyance, whereas Yelena mumbled, “Did they just turn into a morning show now?”

After everyone in your team died, you all decided to ask for a timeout to talk things out. While that was going on, the Avengers had their own timeout and were trying to talk about the game, or at least what they thought was happening.

“Okay, assuming we've all seen how this Killjoy character works, her character would make most sense if her utility was in Site A." Bruce said, in thought.

Vision, one of the smartest of the bunch, had not grasped the game mechanics that well over the hour and half of the tournament. "But why is that, Dr. Banner?"

“Site A is pretty cramped, while site B has a lot of space. Of course the opposing team would always go to B since Y/N’s character's utility can't place utilities in both sites, they only have limited range," Peter points to the map as soon as it's shown up close, the casters having their own separate conversation about it.

Bucky turned to a confused Steve and Sam, “I have no idea what they're talking about.”

“Where else would she put her chicken gun on site B, then?” Tony joined the conversation, talking about your character's utility placement.

“It’s,” Natasha sighed. “It’s not a chicken gun...”

“Well, that chicken gun slows down enemies, right? It would make sense if Y/N places those bomb thingies to instantly kill them.” Yelena said.

“Lena, I think Y/N is fairly capable of playing the game right,” Wanda chuckled.

“Then she should be winning.” Yelena said jokingly, chugging on her drink.

It was astonishing how a group of heroes are knowledgeable about a video game, just so they could follow what you enjoy doing. That's how much they adored you.

Clint entered the room and looked at the source of ruckus, absolutely sick of the discourse. He was aware of your tournament and has been probably spectating on different means. “They still get another match if they lose this one. It’s the best out of three.”

“I’m starting to think someone’s cheating, has anyone noticed that some of the opponent team instantly kill them with only one bullet?” Steve squinted.

Tony scoffed. “That’s ridiculous, it’s a tournament.”

“It’s because they hit them precisely on the head, Steve. Who wouldn’t die if they got shot in the head?” Sam crossed his arms.

“Me,” that came from Vision.

“You don’t count.”

They all turned back to the screen once the timeout timer ran out. Natasha could sense the tension in your team, just from the way you glanced across the stage… she could tell you were gonna have a different way of playing the remaining rounds. The screen turned to you stretching your neck from both sides, seriousness evident in your face as you clutched your mouse, ready for the game to resume.

“And we're back, and it seems that [Team Name] had enough time to come up with a different game plan. We've got one duelist camping B, one on mid, and look at [Team Name] Y/N's utility. She's got her alarm bot and nano-swarms over on A, but her turret is on B as she's over by tunnel to keep it active.”

“Again, I have no idea what he's talking about.” Bucky shrugged, crossed his arms and kept his eyes on the screen.

After fixing your team's strategy, all that was left was to deliver with accurate shots and stay alive as much as possible. By the end of a few rounds, with your team’s communication and teamwork flawless than ever, the score was 12-11. Your team only had to win one more time to officially win.

At this point, Yelena and Wanda were loudly reacting to the gameplay, Sam and Tony were howling, rooting for you. Clint ended up setting himself on one of the sofa's arms, invested in the match.

Natasha was on the edge of her seat, clutching the couch cushions. She couldn’t help but chuckle when they showed your reaction momentarily, clearly breathless and eyes wide, fist bumping your teammates seated beside you.

“Oh, what a comeback! The most intense so far, am I right?” The caster exclaimed.

“[Team Name] only has to win one more round before moving on to the next part of this tournament!”

The last round wasn’t exactly in your team’s favor in the half. Three of your team got killed already, only two of you remaining and the five of the enemy team. The rival team obviously did not want to hand over the win that easily.

After the call of another successful kill by the opposing team, you were the last one standing against a full set of players. You would either have to clutch up the round or go into overtime.

Clint perked up, pulling out his wallet. “Alright, who wants to get the bets started?” He asked, placing down a crisp fifty dollar bill on the coffee table. “Y/N wins the game.”

They all stopped to look at him as if he was a madman.

“C’mon, Barton, it’s one versus five.” Sam pointed out.

“So what? Am I the only one who believes in Y/N here? Oh, Nat, you better start placing fifties.”

Natasha merely rolled her eyes, not once wanting to bet on or against her girl. Her eyes glued to the screen in which your character is cautiously checking if the area is clear to plant the bomb.

But Tony pulled out the same type of bill from his wallet, placing it on top of the archer's money.

“Mr. Stark, you do realize you're betting against-” Peter started.

“Hush, spiderling. Watch the game.” Tony brushed him off and watched the screen intently.

Tony was proud of you, truly. But it would also be funny to tease you lovingly when you go home as a loser.

You set up your utility, kind of surprised the whole enemy team went to the other site in which they thought you were heading. They did not leave anyone behind to make sure, as per your cautious scan of the area before settling. After checking all angles again, with thirty seconds to spare, you planted the spike.

“This is a dangerous game to play. She has to hold a lot of angles by herself, they could come in from anywhere.”

The spike continued to beep, which added a lot more tension among the Avengers. Natasha alternated from looking at the actual game to your face camera, of which was the only one left colored. You kept pacing at one of the hiding places, waiting for the slightest noise or actions from the other team.

You decided to peek at one of the entrances to the site once, the Jett with an operator narrowly missed your head so you took the opportunity to blast her head off. Afterwards, your alarm bot from the other side of your hiding place went off, so you went and peeked quickly, managing to pick off another player from the opposite team. Two down, three to go.

The Avengers erupted in noise. Sam and Peter were losing their minds, Bucky and Steve had amazed grins on their faces, and Natasha was clinging on to Yelena and Fanny like a fangirl trying to contain herself.

“What was that?!”

“She's a god!”

“My god, this is way too intense for me.”

Both commentators erupted in surprised glee as well. “A double kill from [Team Name] Y/N! The others are slowly making their way into the site, what will she do?!”

A Sova fired a dart to hopefully reveal your location on the map, but you were too quick to shoot it down to cancel it. But, the Sova spotted you anyway, and was able to shoot you until you were at only 50 HP.

You hid again and recalled your turret, placing it on top of the wall in front of you before sneaking your way to the opposite side. It could watch your back while you attempt to peek on the other side to surprise your enemies.

That move managed to catch one of the other players trying to sneak in as well, and you killed them off with ease. Three down, two to go.

“Down goes [Player Name]! Sova and Yoru are still on the lookout, it's like an intense version of hide & seek up in here!”

Barely anyone was talking now, all eyes on the enormous screen.

“Y/N has her ult!” Peter pointed out.

That you did, as your third kill managed to unlock enough points for it. Aware of its availability, you hurried off to the perfect spot to plant it to cover almost the entire site, still hidden from your enemies. Killjoy's voice rang through the game, saying 'Initiated!', when you planted her ultimate.

“What's that? What's happening?” Steve asked.

“Well, it's called 'lockdown', so I'm assuming it's locking off the area within its perimeter... trapping everyone inside...” Bruce said, lost in thought because of the game.

The Yoru activated their ultimate in time with yours, and you were now twice as cautious, looking around for blue swirls of the duelist to avoid getting sniped easily. He tried to blind you, but you were quick to move your view away from the flash to avoid it. Stupidly, the Yoru's ultimate ran out while trying to destroy your lockdown, so you killed them without hesitation. Four down, one to go.

Clint cackled at the turn of events while the others continued to freak out, teasing Tony, a billionaire, on losing a fifty-dollar bet. “What did I tell you, Stark?! What did I tell you?!”

The spike's beeps started getting faster and you could finally see the finish line. But, you were still cautious as they still had more than enough time to defuse if they managed to kill you.

“You know, [Team Name] Y/N could just leave the site at this point. It's game over for [Rival Team Name].”

“Ah, don't speak too soon there! [Team Name] Y/N's now inspecting the outer corners of the site, unaware of [Rival Team Name] [Player]'s sneaky entrance - and she's placed a smoke down, ready to defuse!”

Of course you were unaware of the opponent's whereabouts. But, you did hear the defuse sound go off for a second. With that, you head back, holding a grenade to throw near the area of the spike.

“She's got this in the bag.” Sam said in content.

After a few seconds, the defusing sound started up again, but you were certain that the grenade you set off did some damage to your opponent on top of the information you got from your teammates before they died.

You started to jiggle-peek from your spot, clearly visible from your opponent's perspective, so they had no choice but to stop defusing the spike to try and shoot you.

Unfortunately, they did a number on you, so you decided to go around. Once the cooldown reset on your turret, you placed it down on one side for intel. With only 20 HP left, you snuck up to the other side of the obstacle to hopefully pull off a knife kill for the finale.

“This game is way more intense than I thought.” Bucky spoke thoughtfully amidst the suspense-filled silence.

“Shhhh!”

“Oh my god, she's got her knife out.” Natasha said in disbelief, watching your character sneak up behind your opponent whose back is facing you.

“So?”

“Just wait for it.” Natasha bit her lip, knowing fully well how you always prefer a devastating way to end a match.

The commentators were freaking out, a combination of “no's”, “don't do this”, and “not like this” rang through the Avengers' speakers. It was considered devastating in the VALORANT community to be killed in game with a knife instead of a gun or anything else. The opponent is oblivious, having already defused half of the spike, but they didn't know what would soon come.

You strike your knife at their head, killing them instantly, the spike left undefused. The game graphics became slow motion while the screen flashed green with 'VICTORY' in the middle of it all. You stood up almost immediately, proud of your savage last kill, fist-bumping all your teammates.

“AN ACE FROM [Team Name] Y/N! [Team Name] IS GOING TO THE MASTERS!”

You hugged your team as well before turning to the camera nearest to you, blowing hot air onto the lens, and tracing a heart followed by a cheeky grin and a wink.

“Yup, she's a Stark alright!”

Roars and cheers emitted from the commentators, the present audience, and the Avengers. Sam yelled and everyone followed, but the loudest one was Clint, who then swooped down to collect his cash prize for winning the bet. Tony didn't care at all, laughing along with the others; he had something new to brag about his kid. Natasha's cheeks flushed, as they always did when it came to you.

“SHE WON!”

“I'll get the booze!”

“In your face, Stark!”

“Cap, you stepped on my foot!”

Natasha unlocked her phone to take a quick picture of the livestream of the heart you drew on the camera, as well as of the stage displaying all of your team's headshots with an abundance of confetti almost covering it. All she wanted now was to call you, but she knew you probably had interviews and post-game rituals with your team, and she had champagne to drink with her own team in celebration of you.

The next morning, on a quick flight back home, the first thing that caught your attention was Natasha's Instagram story of the tournament. Your family supported and watched the tourney for you, as the following slides of her story consisted of the team chugging on champagne, Clint showing off an apparent bet that he won, and Peter and Sam posing in front of the TV when your face camera was shown up close.

Smiling, you liked her stories and replied with 'Thank you for supporting me, my love. I'll see you all soon'.

[lacy-oh-lacy]

Coming out to Marvel Characters

A/N: Happy Pride! Reader's orientation/identity is ambiguous, as is your relationship with the characters :) Masterlist

Steve: Telling him is a little intimidating considering the time he’s from, but truthfully you could of told him back in the 30s and even then he would of accepted you -albeit with more anxiety over your safety. He’s open minded for his time, and he has in spades the kind of compassion you need after bearing your heart and soul like that. 

Tony: He’s a dickhead more often than not, but he gets that this is a rare time not to be. He’s quiet for a moment, processing, and then he’s nonchalant. He acknowledges what you said as sensitively as he can but he also doesn’t linger on it. He accepts who you are, but to him it’s not a moment to get sappy over, it’s as casual as he thinks lending someone basic human decency should be.

Thor: He forgets for a minute that this can be a big deal to earthlings, queerness as you call it is a lot more normalised on Asguard.Then he remembers, and trying to be supportive -albeit a little clumsily- he pats your back and commends the courage it must of taken to tell him, assuring you you have his wholehearted acceptance.

Natasha: Look, as perceptive as she is, there’s no way she hasn’t already known for months. She’s just been too respectful to say anything. When you do finally tell her she feigns just a bit of surprise for your benefit, then she’s very casual about the whole thing. She’s accepting but in a quiet way, she’s one to show her support subtly as it naturally comes up.

Wanda: She doesn’t have the most in depth lgbtqia+ education or anything but she wholeheartedly supports the community. So, between that and her being the compassionate person she is, she’s very easy to tell. She’s so understanding and sensitive to your feelings, and honestly she’s just really touched that you trusted her enough to tell her.

Peter P: It really does come as a surprise, just because he’s usually so preoccupied with his own secret that he doesn’t often think about what other people might be hiding. He adjusts right away though, he’s always considerate to your comfort and now is no exception. He’s so sweet, he’s just happy you told him and asking the most thoughtful questions.

Carol: Though she’s also from a more close-minded time, she’s a little less intimidating to tell. For one thing, she’s spent her life since then around a diverse range of space cultures, and for another, she kind of has her own… vibe. And yeah, you were right not to worry, she doesn’t exactly overreact but she’s very obvious in her support.

Bucky: He is surprised, but also curious. When you spend most your life in the 30s and the rest in captivity you don’t learn how to respond to someone coming out to you (at least not in a way he ever would) but he doesn’t do too bad, he clearly isn’t bothered. Actually you coming out sparks his interest in the matter and inspires him to educate himself on queerness in the 21st century.

Yelena: As another queer person, she thinks it’s great, her eyes actually light up as you tell her. Honestly, she’s kind of hoping that you have more experience with things like pride and community than she does because she could really use some guidance, but even if not it’s still nice just to know she has someone who’s like her in her life and hopes that you feel the same way.

Loki: He couldn’t be less fazed if you told him your star sign, frankly. He is quick though, he can see this is important to you. So, wanting you to feel validated he asks some polite follow up questions, he’s happy to let you vent if you want, he’ll even offer some insight as someone a lot more at home in his queer identity if you need it. Plus, the best thing about telling him is that he’s definitely down to …handle… any bigots you’re dealing with.

Valkyrie: She’ll drink to that. Really, she thinks it’s nice, she’s supportive without making a big deal out of it. Though she’s queer herself, she wouldn’t think to offer any advice on the matter because well… she’s kind of a mess, but if you need someone to talk to she’s not a bad listener.

Kate: Despite what an adorably awkward motormouth she can be at times, she’s actually pretty chill about this. She does rush to reassure you that she’s fine with it, especially if you seem nervous, but she’s otherwise relaxed and lets you do most of the talking. It’s not that big of a shock to her really, it’s not like she’s never met other queer people before.

Peter Q: To be for real, most of what her knows about queer people comes from outdated stereotypes, relics from his childhood, and there was probably a time when coming out to him really would of sucked because of that, but he’s matured a lot since then so he takes this in with an open mind and responds with surprising sensitivity and kindness, at least by his standards.

Gamora: She’s been through planets more or less accepting of queerness so she gets the gist, but with how shut-off she’s been you’re still the first (out) queer person she’s known well. You wouldn’t know that though, because she responds very calmly to you coming out and she’s very easy to talk to about it.

Drax: He does not get the big deal. He doesn’t even get what homophobia / transphobia is really, and yet he still manages to say something totally offensive (albeit completely unintentionally) when you come out to him -which he later apologises for. Of course he accepts you, it’s not even a question, and after that first slip up he does make it a point to try and be more respectful …to mixed results.

Groot: He is Groot.

Rocket: He’s not respectful per se, because he never is, but he takes it fine. With all the crazy stuff he’s seen, you’re really not making headlines. He doesn’t know how to communicate it, but he’s sympathetic to the more alienating parts of your experience, especially to bigotry you faced, and he’s the quickest to defend you if ever needed.

[reginaphalangelobster125]

Yours and Theirs

You stood by the bar, sipping your drink and staring at them from across the room. You watched them talking and laughing and all you wanted was to be the cause of that laugh. You'd been in love with them for longer than you'd care to admit but it felt like a lifetime. It felt like you'd known them forever, through all of your past lives. The past few months you thought you'd seen something in them, you thought they might finally return your feelings and if so tonight would be the perfect night.

You were at a themed party, 1860s era. There was an extremely talented string quartet playing beautifully in the background. You were in a gorgeous time appropriate outfit that still accentuated all the best parts of your body. Then there they were. They were truly amazing at all times but tonight, oh tonight was the epitome. They looked breathtaking, if you didn't know better you'd be sure they were a god and anyone who'd disagree would be sorely mistaken.

You watched as their perfect lips took a sip from their glass, you'd swear they were taunting you. You looked into their eyes, beautiful pools you wished to dive into. All you wanted was for them to be yours and for you to be theirs. You decided to take your chance. As the previous song was starting to fade out, you walked over to them. They saw you and began to creep closer, the two of you locked in heated eye contact, stalking towards each other like predators to prey. You met in the middle of the dance floor just as the quartet began to play 'Clocks'. You raised your palm just below your face and theirs followed. Your hands maybe an inch away from each other. You started to move in a circular fashion, chasing each other. You brought your hand down, as did they, only to switch to the other, as did they. You chased each other once again, this time in the opposite direction. You walked up to each other again, just as close and before but this time, you touched. Both of your hands found their way to hips and shoulders. You felt your fingers interlocking and you wished they'd stay that way forever. You danced around the room dipping down and bobbing back up like you were gliding through the water. With every stroke and strum of the strings your love grew fonder. The way the bows swept across the instruments in swift movements matched your own and the slow gliding was your favourite part. You continued, your eyes never parting for a second. You saw into their soul when you danced with them. You saw the love you felt being returned. The strings began to quieten down and you began to stop moving. The song reached its end, far too quickly, and you stood there, with them. Their lips parted for a moment as they began to say something but before they could finish, you stopped them. Your lips clashed with theirs in the most passionate kiss of your lifetime. Your lips moulded with theirs like a fine clay sculpture, the finest. You separated, only out of fear of suffocation, if not for breathing you would have never stopped kissing them. You didn't take your eyes off each other as you gasped, catching your breath. You couldn't wait any longer, you had to say it.

'I love you' you uttered, breathlessly. You stood there for a moment, your words hanging in the air.

'I've been waiting for you to say that since the moment I met you, I love you too' they said as a tear rolled down their cheek.

You moved and hand to Their cheek to wipe away their tears as you let your own out, feeling a huge sense of relief and belonging, finally. Their words melted your heart, you too had wanted this since you met them and you finally had it. They were yours and you were theirs, as it should be, as it will always be.

And yes the dance was inspired by The Vampire Diaries, I'm watching it for the first time and I just had to write something about that scene!

I can't add more tags but I tried to.

[waltermis]

Just feel like making people cry with me.... I'm sorry... 😭

My baby cared more for people than more people cared for her.... she deserved the world ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹

[cece693]

Ok uh Hi am new to this I just saw the " brilliant " fic which was 👏🏻👏🏻. Sooo I was wondering if u can make a fluff fic about clint barton x male reader, if thats ok with you?

Farm Boy (Clint Barton x Male Reader)

Hello! I'm actually not that much of a Hawkeye fan so it took me a while to write this and find motivation, but I think it turned out alright. Hope you enjoy it!

Clint Barton rarely got a day off. Between Avengers missions, SHIELD calls, and the occasional intergalactic catastrophe, his time at home was precious and fleeting. But today? Today was all his. All theirs. The sun was just peeking over the horizon when Clint stretched out in bed, the familiar creak of the old farmhouse adding to the peaceful ambiance. Beside him, you were still curled up in the covers, your hair tousled and your breathing soft. Clint smiled lazily, taking a moment to watch you before slipping out of bed as quietly as he could.

The kitchen smelled like coffee and bacon a half hour later. Clint hummed to himself as he flipped pancakes, a skill honed over years of needing to impress his husband after burning a few too many breakfasts in the early days of your relationship.

“Is that bacon I smell, or am I dreaming?” Your groggy voice drifted into the kitchen, accompanied by the sound of your socked feet shuffling across the hardwood floor.

Clint turned with a grin, a spatula in one hand and a mug of coffee in the other. “Morning, sleepyhead. I figured I’d let you sleep in for once, but your stomach had other plans, huh?”

You chuckled, pulling him into a quick kiss before stealing the coffee. “You know me too well.”

The morning passed in a haze of quiet domesticity. Clint insisted on dragging you outside after breakfast, despite your protests about the slight chill in the autumn air. The two of you spent hours tending to the garden, chasing a rogue chicken that had escaped its coop, and splitting logs for the fire pit. It wasn’t glamorous, but that was the point. It was simple, real, and yours.

By late afternoon, the sun was hanging low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the farm. Clint had convinced you to take a break on the porch swing, a thick blanket draped over both your laps. He leaned back, one arm around your shoulders, the other hand fiddling with a mug of cider.

“This,” Clint said, breaking the comfortable silence, “is what I miss the most when I’m away. Just being here with you. No explosions, no supervillains, no crazy missions. Just us.”

You smiled, leaning into his side. “You’re going to make me cry.”

“Don’t cry, babe. I’ll just have to kiss it all better, and that sounds like a lot of work,” he teased, though his lips were already pressing a tender kiss to your temple.

You turned to face him, eyes soft as you brushed a hand through his hair. “You know you’re a lot more than just Hawkeye to me, right? You’re my Clint. My husband. The guy who makes terrible pancakes and hogs the blanket at night.”

He smirked. “Terrible pancakes? You ate three of them this morning.”

“Details,” you replied with a grin, leaning up to kiss him. Clint melted into it, his hand coming up to cradle your face, the moment stretching out like a scene from a romance movie.

As the sky turned shades of pink and orange, Clint sighed contentedly, pulling you closer. “I don’t know what I did to deserve this life with you, but I’m not letting it go. Ever.”

You rested your head on his shoulder, your fingers intertwining with his. “Good. Because I’m not letting you go, either.” The two of you stayed on the porch swing long after the sun disappeared, wrapped in each other’s warmth, soaking up every second of Clint’s rare, perfect day off.

[missmarveledsblog]

Once in a lifetime kinda deal (Mafia!Bucky Barnes x reader)

Part one: Father dearest what ?

Summary: When the daughter of Tony Stark is in an arranged marriage with her bodyguard's best friend. Another mafia boss James Barnes the two find themselves liking the arrangement more than expected although the life of a mafia boss is never smooth sailing

Warnings: strong language , fast burn , goofy, Tony starks sarcasm , readers sarcastic ass , mafia au , age gap (legal reader 24 , buckys 40s )

To say it was awkward was probably an understatement, what was supposed to be a regular job suddenly went tits up and in a fast way hell she was only doing the job to pay for college . She, as well as three  of her coworkers, sat in some kitchen while watching the rain outside poured down , kids long gone while they waited to be paid . Being fairies for kids parties was fun most times, while other times not so fun especially with some creep of a  dad  was slipping numbers in the straps of their dresses  with a slimy wink was definitely a downside. Another was the owner gave them alcohol while they waited and now she sat with three drunk fairies . didn’t help when they did leave , they could barely stand so she was the one to apologize  only for the father to slip his number and ask her to work his club sometime.  With a a polite rejection ,  she went out to the car , lucky for her it was her uncle to collect them .

“ Hey, have fun girls” he chuckled.

“ they sure did happy ” she rolled her eyes .

“ bad one huh?” he asked.

“ well other than creepy dads and spoiled kids it was a great one” she huffed pullin a sweatshirt over herself.

“ Come on, we get food in them,” he laughed. She ignored their slurred chats with her uncle knowing he was being his gentleman self to make sure they ate  before getting them home.

“ Why do you do this?” Maya slurred.

“ because I want to pay for my own college” she shrugged.

“ but your dad’s one of the richest dudes, and you got hot uncles , happy abd the adonis” Maya whined.

“ Probably because of their gangsters,” Kelly whispered .  She just rolled her eyes knowing they were dying to say it and now with the bravery of the alcohol .

“ ok girls we're here” he called opening the door seeing it was one of the many places her dad was the owner of  pulling off the sweatshirt she ran into the restaurant getting out of the rain .

“ you ok” her uncle asked again .

“i’m fine least they said it instead of tip-toeing” she laughed as the two walked in.

“ no alcohol for them” he called as the waiter walked over to the table as the girl collectively whine. “ i’ll see if your dad’s here” he smiled before leaving her to the other drunk fairies.

“ this place is insane” the girls  giggled and snorted .

“ yeah it’s something” she hummed wishing she went home instead .

“ what can i get you ladies” the waiter eyed them up sleazy grin on his face.

“ some burgers and fries please” she smiled but the man look at her like she asked for his social security and pay check in one.

“ we don’t do that here the denny’s down the road might be more your pace” he scoffed.

“ i always have cheese burgers here and don’t assume from how were dressed ..” .

“ that your strippers trying to eat and run” he snickered.

“ hey her daddy runs this place” kelly stood swaying slightly.

“ sugar daddies don’t count” he rolled his eyes . “ look girls i’m not missing out on actual customers so ..”  He was cut off by the sound of a clearing of a throat.

“ Mr. Rogers,” he gasped.

“ hey stevie happy’s gone see if dad’s here” she smiled as the mans face paled.

“ hey pretty girl” sam walked up .

“ so burger and fries thank you” she turned to the waiter.

“ right away miss stark” he ran off .

“ wow that was so cool” kelly laughed.

“ girls have fun” sam winked making them giggle like school girls .

“ they did  i guess my dad is actually here” she nodded.

“ why am i seeing fairies” a voice called .

“ because pretty girl here works as one for parties duh” sam scoffed .

“ kids parties” she corrected .

“ we could change that for you guys” maya winked.

“ they could i still do kids parties” she laughed

.  “Damn shame” the mysterious stranger smirked .

“ so hows college going” steve asked playfully pushing the man at his side  .

“ kicking my ass but i love it” she smiled brightly.

“ princess  boss wants to see you” happy called .

“ oh great” she huffed .

“ Happy, can you watch them” she pleaded.

“ course i can '' he smiled  as she walked by as the men followed after.

“ so the boss rents out fairies now” the stranger asked.

“ only on Saturdays, '' she called back .

'' So what are  you a sugar baby? '' the stranger asked again .

“ bucky shut up, '' Steve hissed.

“ i’m better than a sugar baby” was all she said before the men nodded.

“ shit is that his wife” she could hear him whisper.

“ new guy shush” she laughed as they walked into the room .

“ my beautiful daughter everyone” she looked as her father stood and they followed .  “ Hey dad , it’s nice to meet you all” she smiled .

“ Are you still doing that kid party thing?” he asked.

“No, I dressed like this for fun” she rolled her eyes .

“ its cute kid, '' Rhodey laughed.

'' Come on sit, happy's gonna bring your friends home” her father smiled, almost too friendly for her liking .

“ what’s going on? '' she whispered to Natasha Romanoff, one of her fathers favorite co-workers, giving the woman's looks and abilities to get a job done quick and easy and her mothers sister.

“ i’m sorry” was all she said .

“  so you're all here for the partly all of you men have been selected for a reason  , one of you is a suitable suitor for my dearest Y/N  here” she heard the words as clear as day yet it wasn’t like she did at all . she knew it was coming. Most girls in this life were basically sold off  to strengthen the business side of things.

“ Wait tony think about this” rhodey almost spat his drink .

“ I did it’s time” he dismissed him instantly. “ Dad, may I speak to you privately?” she asked sweetly .

“ Of course pumpkin” he smiled as she led the way only for Bruce to open the door .

“ thanks banner” she smiled so forcefully . Once the door was closed she wanted to throw something at her father .

“ What the hell  did you fall and hit your head ? “ was all she could say .

“ Look  I get i blindsided you but it’s all your choice ok , kid people need to know i run tight ship and you're part of that ship” he sighed.

“ What else aren’t you telling me” she looked at him.

“ well it’s peter , he fucked up big time lost a big a shipment” he explained .

“ that why you don’t let kids fucking do this” . “ I know but now I need you to do this for me , I'll make sure you still stay in college and all that good stuff, “ he pleaded .

“ I pick the suitor if I don't like them, it doesn't happen” she said knowing it was only the way she could gain control of the situation .

“done ,  there’s a dress there pep pick it out after she threw a vase at my head” he rubbed the back of his neck.

“ of all my stepmothers she’s my favorite” she smiled sadly knowing why the woman wasn’t here .

“ I'll let you change,” he smiled brightly .

“ kind of you” she scoffed  .

“ Kid it’s either that or Peter pays” he sighed. “ Why do you think i’m doing it ? cause it not for you ” she growled, pulling the dress out .

Steve sat looking around the room pissed off wondering how Tony could do this and by looking at her face she wasn’t expecting it, another thing he knew it was for real . she couldn’t go with any of these men , all animals in their own way especially how Rumlow  was looking at her. That was only telling he would put on the charm but they all knew how he really treated the women in his life , hell the last one found the bottom of a lake more appealing .  He could feel Sam stiffen up as well knowing he and many of the Avengers gang  didn’t like this. They loved Y/N  like a sister or niece and this wasn’t what they wanted for her.  Then like a lightbulb went off in his head he looked to his best friend beside him , He was his own man  nearly  up there with the Starks and he didn’t miss how Bucky froze a little in his spot when he met the stark girl .

“ I need to pull in that favor,” steve whispered.

“ which favor punk” bucky looked around the table he didn’t want her to go with these men they were cruel bastards .

“ when i saved your life , I need you to save another” he whispered.

“ is that why you brought me here?” he arched his brow.

“ no but i mean it works out better this way , come on we can work out details doesn’t need to be a real wedding” steve pleaded.

“ hey I'll cash in my favor too” sam caught on to what they were talking about .

“ Fine, I'll put myself forward as a suitor , she really means this much to you both” he asked as the men nodded.

“ she helped my sister out of a real bad situation , look a girl like her shouldn’t have to do this she a saint amongst sinners” sam sighed.

“ Plus you get in with starks like you want,” Steve added.

“ I'm rethinking that” he shook his head.

“ plus i saw your eyes when you looked at her,” Steve smirked.

“ you need your eyes checked punk” bucky smiled although his best friend wasn’t lying but he felt bad for his lie .

“ Now she agreed gentlemen so let's just have a meal then we can talk another time '' Tony announced taking his seats ignoring the glares from his own men and nat . 

“ What's the deal with it all?” Rumlow smiled.

“ She picks the suitor, it's her choice and her rules” Tony  took his wine . “ If you don't like it, there's the door,” he added.

“ she ok” nat asked.

“ yeah she just changing out of her fairy thing” tony shrugged.

“ i’ll go check on her” nat smiled hand squeezing tony’s shoulder a little harder making the man smile through gritted teeth.

“ malyshka” she asked, coming further into the office.

“ down here” she called laying on the floor.

“ If you want, we can run now. I'll get Bruce to get the car ready” she looked down .

“ And then how will you adopt then?” she looked up at the redhead.

“ doesn’t matter ,  I promised my sister i wouldn’t let you get sold off like she did”she shook her head.

“ my dad isn’t like drekov he’ll let me choose” she smiled sadly.

“ he is a little but look we can go when your ready” the red head mused.

“ i’m doing it nat peter in trouble  my dad’s fault for trusting a kid to do something so big but he’s my brother i have to ” she sighed .

“ well then i’m making sure whoever it is will know the widows will be watching”.

“ i’ve no doubt they will , how is yelena” she asked standing pulling the dress over her head .

“ well lucky she not here is all i can say” she laughed dryly.

“ look i’ll be fine i can take care of myself thanks to you” she winked pulling the black dress over her head .

“ ok he so lied about pepper picking this” she scoffed as the black body con hugged every part of her body .

“ the one she picked out was down to your ankle” nat laughed.

“ hey hand me his jacket there” she called  as she pulled the silver belt off her fairy costume.  Pulling her fathers coat over her it covered her to extent , she look classier then the first choice that was for sure as she pulled the belt around her .

  “ nice job” nat eye appraisingly rake over the impromptu change of attire.

“ well lets do this”she smiled .

“ what are you planning” nat quirked her brow.

“ nothing at all” she smirked as the widow snorted.

He couldn’t believe he was even doing this , he stood in front of tony stark telling him , he was interested in being put into the pool of suitors .

“ I'm surprised I thought you didn't marry barnes” tony asked.

“ a man can change” he shrugged yet their was secret look between the men .

“ i mean business wise he would be the best choice” steve interjected .

“ he’s not wrong but it’s not my choice so i’ll you in” tony nodded .

“ Thanks” he went to walk back to his seat, two men sharing almost a secret exchange .

“ Sit  here , you move” he said as the walker got up .

“ Sir, I could take care of her,” John began.

“ move” tony repeated.  The door swung open and the room went completely quiet  all eyes on her  even though Bucky couldn’t tear his eyes away . She looked like a model or angel or both. He wasn't sure yet only to hear a chuckle from his best friend .

“ don’t mind me using your jacket dad, its a bit chilly ” she smiled sweetly but he could see her testing her father almost willing him to say something .

“ yeah it’s nice on you kid , sharon .. i mean pepper picked great” he smiled forcefully.

“ bingo”she smirking as his  eyes narrowed slightly .

“ You look like a great doll” bucky smiled. “Thank you … sorry i didn’t get your name” she held her hand out.

“ jame barnes but friends call me bucky '' he kissed her hand.

'' So sweets what was with the get up before '' Rumlow called.

“ I work as a fairy for kids' parties so I can pay for my own college fees” she smiled.

“ daddy can’t pay, ''he snorted.

'' Daddy could buy the whole college but I wanted to be independent in my own way, learning the world around you helps' ' she smiled sweetly yet her grip on the knife suggested otherwise. “ i mean most of the people put on a front for you guys it hard to read them but when you do what i do you find a lot more under the surface” she added. “ i like that , what do you do in college doll” bucky asked.

“ she is a business and law major” tony cut in actually sounding proud.

“ nah girls belong at home this modern shit fills their heads with crap” rumlow laughed. “ i think it’s great y/n’s smart as hell” steve smiled proudly.

“ i agree with rogers” clint winked .

“ good thing im a women and not a girl then “

“ so doll what’s the fairy business like” bucky smiled.

“ kids are great well sometimes it’s the parents that suck , i mean i think the dad today thought he was getting lucky getting the girls drunk but happy came and got us” she nodded her grip relaxing on the knife.

“ speaking of happy informed me they got back safe” her father smiled.

“ good lets eat i’m starving” she called as the same waiter from before came in hands shaking as he placed the food down .

“ would you like anything else ma’am” he asked a tremble in his voice.

“ nah we’re good thank you” .

“ what was that about” her father asked.

“ nothing misunderstanding” she shrugged.

“ exactly i learned my lesson sir” he squeaked as she nodded. “ fine go” he wave his hand. 

“глупый идиот

(silly idiot)”she giggled as nat laughed.

“он безобидная кукла

(he’s harmless doll)” bucky smirked.

“ stop talking russian darling it’s rude” her father hissed.

“ you don’t speak it , none of you?” she asked as they all shook their heads.   She looked down at her phone to see message from steve “ lift home with me” . she gave him a quick nod before turning her head to listen to the stupid stories of the men around her. It was an hours later most of the men starting to slur words and braver with their words and praises making her uncomfortable even her father could see it.

“ time for you to go” he clapped his hand.

“ i’ll take her i haven’t drank “ steve stood . “great thanks rogers entertainments coming anyways” tony smirked as the women walked in half dressed in next to nothing .

“ now the real show is here” rumlow smirked . “ i’m going to head off too” bucky stood just as a woman went to sit on his lap .

“ let me walk you out”her father smiled .   she only glared at her father seeing the rest of the so call entertainment walking by .

“ don’t get any of these pregnant pepper wouldn’t be happy” she scoffed .

“ pepper is coming too” he rolled his eyes.

“  ok was nice meeting you bucky” she said shaking the mans hand before heading out to the car barely looking at her father .

“ i’ll see you later” steve nodded before he followed.

“ you passed test one barnes” was all tony said before walking back into the room as they all cheered. 

She sat in the car looking down at her hands the brave front breaking  once she was out of her fathers presence.

“ look i didn’t know that was happening i would of warned you” he said just as the car opened and the two men  getting in .

“ i know stevie” she smiled wiping her eyes. “ we have a plan  one everyone’s happy with” he said .

“ wait i’m getting in “ a voice called

“ natalia” bucky nodded.

“ ok as i was saying  you still need to marry someone but this way your safe and well yeah” he said .

“ whats the plan” she sniffled as nat took her hand knowing she was being too strong.

“ you pick bucky” sam smirked.

“ you’ll get your own room in my place , continue college all you need to do is come to events and stuff with me” he smiled softly.

“ why you helping” nat asked.

“ because these punks begged me and i hate the whole marriage business thing” he sighed.

“ so whats the catch” she asked.

“ none , having a wife and part of your dads business helps me and well you don’t end up a slave for those assholes in there” he explained.

“ steve how much do you trust his word” she asked.

“ with my life it’s why i suggested it” steve promised.

“ sam?” .

“ same as steve , look pretty girl its bucky or Rumlow” sam sighed.

“ i’ll text my father” she nodded. “ leave it till tomorrow ,make it look like its not a plan” bucky nodded.

“ well  boys for this you got the trust and business with the widows” nat smiled .

“ another thing  you have to let me pay for your college” bucky added.

“ i like my job” she lied.

“ i mean if you wanna be fairy you can but i pay for your college” he shook his head.

“ oh i got invited to breakfast at yours so i guess i’ll see you in the morning too” he winked . nat watched the two before she smiled looking at steve in the mirror two sharing a knowing smirk of what would unfold.

“ no mistresses in the house if you do that do it in hotel” she added.

“ i don’t do mistresses doll” he said she almost believed him .

“  you gave up the whole playboy thing right?” nat asked making the girl beside her head spin .

“ i did  got sick of the show , you done your research romanoff” he chuckled.

“ i make sure my niece is  safe” she shrugged.

“ speaking of Yelena going to have tony’s balls for this” steve chuckled.

“ oh that’s a long line trust me” nat rolled her eyes.

“ So why are you agreeing to this?” Bucky asked.

“ You can tell him princess,” Steve nodded.

“ My little brother , well he is not actually my brother but he is , my dad took him in as a debt repayment when he was like two  , I was six  anyways my dad trusted him with a big job that well has us in this mess” she sighed. “ Wait parker? He like a child wait again how old are you” he asked.

“Twenty four  ” she shrugged.

“ oh great midlife crisis marriage” bucky sighed ignoring how good the sound of her giggles were to his ears.

“ well lucky the marriage is for show huh old man” she winked .

“ already busting my balls” he teased.

“ oh this is gonna be good” sam chuckled .

Once nat brought her up making sure she was ok , she sat looking around her room probably last she would see of it knowing her father would rush the union once decided. Stripping the remains of her clothes she sent her boss that she was leaving  the job.  Before she jumped into pair of shorts and sweatshirt on pulling out her textbooks  laying them all around the bed . steve and  sam all asking how she was so she sent them a selfie of her studying ,  she looked down to see an unknown number ringing.

“ you’ll get a bad back studying like that doll” she couldn’t help smile at the familiar voice. “ well mr barnes how in the word did you get my number” she chewed on the pen suddenly the words on the page were not as interesting .

“ i may of saw the selfie and felt left out” he teased .

“  steve?” she asked.

“ i asked your dad for your number too” she could hear his grin in the phone.

“ for a selfie of me in my dorky state” she laughed.

“ hey what can i say dorky chicks are needed” . “ well if that's it ,  i need to dork it out some more big test coming up” she giggled .

“ oh talk dirty for me baby” he joked his laugh taking over .

“ good night barnes” she snorted.

“ good night doll” he chuckled .  she could help the  flush to her cheeks  could she blame herself no  , not at all man was sex on legs and knew it.

“ Y/N” She could here the sadness in his voice.

“ hey petey come on” she called place  her phone down what she didn’t know was she hit the hang up  button .

“ m’sorry i got you dragged into this , maybe if i talk to dad i could sort it out  , i’ll work for whoever” he started pacing the room .

“ hey it’s ok look dad prick for even getting you to do such a big job , where was i when this was decided” she asked .

“ ballet classes or maybe away with the fairies” he teased .

“ ok funny boy look shit head i got it sorted well steve does so what i want you to do in return is be a kid not deal with this shit just to prove something to dad cause you don’t have to now like a good big sister i seen you got into MIT so if i do this you gotta do that for me” she hugged him unaware of the third party listening in on the phone.

“ please don’t tell me it’s rumlow” peter asked.

“ nah definitely not this guys nice and not just nice front but he seems like a good guy” she nodded.

“Good guys in the mob?” he arched his brow. “ hey their not all ass grabbing alcoholics” she winked making him chuckle.

“ you think dad would let me go MIT” he asked .

“ i’ll talk to him tomorrow at breakfast when you meet bucky”she smiled .

“ looking forward to it doll” the voice called. “ you know it rude to listen to a private conversations” she said as her face heated up . “ hey kid i’ll talk to your dad too bye doll” he called making her hang up and throw herself into her pillow.

“Was that him?” peter squeaked.

“ uh huh” her voice muffled .

“ whats got you smiling” steve walked in .

“ she really loves that kid huh?” bucky shook his head.

“ peter of course he’s good kid not made for this life , his folk owed money but couldn’t pay stark went to pay them a visit and well took the kid as payment mainly because they weren’t able to look after him cared more about drugs turns out that night the dad went on rampage snapped on the drugs and killed a bunch of people” steve shook his head.

“ did you know she did ballet” he asked .

“ course i did , drove her most her lessons makes her feel closer to her mom” he arched his brow but he wasn’t blind he could see it on his best friend already smitten .

“ is the big bad barnes crushing on his soon to be wife” steve teased.

“ nah just nice to see caring souls in this line of work is all” he shrugged.

“ So you are asking Stark for her number?”.

“  i asked stark to arrange it once she tells him yes its a done deal” bucky shrugged ignoring his friends looks .

“ you already asked” steves eye widened .

“ actually stark rang me and i asked him to arrange it after she says yes” he smirked.

“ you  think maybe you should tell her this or maybe everything else you failed to mention in the car” steve looked around the room knowing it wouldn’t be a secret for long.

“ look let's just get this breakfast over, I'll tell her tomorrow.” he sighed, making himself a drink .

“ you know i can read you like a book jerk '' Steve chuckled. “ hell even nat spotted it '' he added.

“ i don’t know what your talking about punk it’s just business' ' bucky winked .

'' oh that poor bastard, '' Steve chuckled as his friend walked out the room .

thanks for reading , if you want to be added to taglist let me know ❤️

[arlana-likes-to-write]

Second Chance - Chapter 17

Masterlist

Warnings: chemo treatment, mention of guilt, Tony is a worried father, mention of death (reader likes to make bad jokes)

Relationship: Yelena x reader, Avengers x reader (platonic), Tony x reader (platonic)

Word Count: 4.4k

The constant moving of Yelena’s hand up and down your back woke you up. It was soothing even though it pulled you out of sleep. The Black Widow’s presence was comforting even though your bones and mind ached—her warmth eased some of the pain. Your eyes fluttered open, and you stared at the Black Widow in your bed. You waking up went unnoticed by the blonde as her hand kept moving. She seemed lost in her own world, so you had time to observe her—observe the way her blonde hair was braided and some of the hair was pulled out of the braid from sleeping. The small hairs curtained around her face. The sun from the window bounced around the room, and the rays reflected in her green eyes. She was breathtaking. As long as you had, you would remind her.

A knot in your neck caused you to groan slightly, and her hand stopped moving. “Hi,” she spoke softly. “I am sorry if I woke you up.” You shook your head and rolled onto your back.

“It’s fine,” you whispered. Your throat was super dry, but reaching for your water seemed like an impossible feat. “What time is it?” You put your forearm over your eyes.

“8,” she answered. “You have treatment at 11.” Shit. You slept for a lot longer than you meant to. “Hey sweetheart,” you put your arm down and looked at her. “Why don’t you have your treatment here instead of at the cancer center?” You shook your head.

“No, I’m fine,” you sighed. “I just need one more hour. Can you wake me up at 9?” You asked her. She nodded.

“Of course,” you rolled onto your side and closed your eyes. There was no way you were going to have your treatment at the tower. That meant you weren’t doing well, and you were fine. Tired but fine.

*

Yelena watched your breathing even out. It took minutes before you were fast asleep. The blonde sighed and stood up. Not even her leaving the bed caused you to stir. “FRIDAY,” she whispered as she left your room and closed it behind her. “Can you tell Stark I need to speak with him?”

“Of course, Miss Belova,” the AI said. Yelena paced in front of your door until she heard Tony’s frantic knocking on the other side.

“She’s fine,” Yelena said while opening the door.

“Don’t do that.” Tony pushed past her and into your apartment. “If it’s not an emergency, tell FRIDAY to tell me that.” Yelena closed your door and stared at your father with her arms crossed. “Damn near gave me a heart attack.”

“Are you done?” Yelena asked. The man narrowed his eyes but nodded. “She is fine but exhausted.” She walked past Tony and walked into your kitchen. If you were stubborn about going, then at least Yelena could get your snack bag ready. “I suggested having her treatment here, but she said no.” Tony sighed and walked over to your coffee pot. He started the process of making a fresh pot.

“If I remember correctly, her mother was stubborn.” Yelena scoffed and opened up your fridge.

“And you are not,” she pulled out a bag of baby carrots. She saw Tony shake his head out of the corner of her eye.

“It seems to me,” the billionaire poured himself a cup of coffee and took a sip. Yelena cringed at how easily he could consume the hot liquid. “She is stubborn about this because she wants to keep her autonomy,” Yelena stopped packing your snacks and turned to face him. The man was leaning against the cabinets. “If she has her treatment here, then she admits the chemo is affecting her.”

“But it is,” Yelena said, and there was no shame in that. The blonde saw how the simplest of things left you exhausted or the way you pushed your food around your plate. However, she understood the need to have control of your body. You needed to make your own choices, not the cancer’s. Yelena sighed. “Your daughter is stressing me out.” Tony laughed.

“Are you regretting being with her already?” Yelena shook her head.

“Never.” It was a blessing and a curse that she was with you. Tony smiled and squeezed her shoulder as he walked to the door.

“Good. Come get me if you need anything.” Yelena let out a slow breath when Tony left. It was strange how suffocating Yelena felt being in your living space. There was an aspect of who you were in every corner with your artwork on the wall to the scent of the candles you had lit. All Yelena wanted was for you to be close and safe in her arms, but that feeling felt overwhelming sometimes.

Yelena shook her head and saw your bag that you packed for treatment by the door. She grabbed it and dumped it on the counter. Cleaning out the trash, she repacked it. Before she placed your sketchbook back in, she felt the urge to flip through it.

The drawings were mostly of your travels and the animals you’ve seen. When she was about to put it away, she stopped on an unfinished drawing. It was of her. The day she took you to Central Park and the German Shepherd puppy ran up to her. You captured the pure joy on her face when the dog ran up to her. Yelena smiled and carefully ran her fingers over the pencil lines.

She would never forget that day. It made her realize how fragile life could be when you spoke about death and how important you were to her.

*

Yelena walked back into your room. Your position changed, but you were still fast asleep with your arms wrapped around the pillow she used and your face pressed against it. It pained Yelena to wake you up, but you asked her to. The slight movement of the bed caused your eyes to open. “Is my pillow that comfy, detka?” Yelena teased. You smiled and stretched before burying your face back into the pillow.

“Smells like you,” you whispered. “You left me, and I needed to cuddle with something.” Carefully, your hand moved up her arm and placed your hand behind your neck. It was hard to stop her body from shivering at your touch. “Kiss me,” you whispered. “Please.” You added on quickly.

It seemed natural for Yelena to close the distance between you and her. Your lips were soft against hers, a little dry as your body was dehydrated from you sleeping so long. But it was perfect. You moved Yelena closer to you until she was holding her weight off of you, caging your body with hers.

In this bubble of peace you created with your lips on hers and your hands on her skin, Yelena was buzzing. She felt like she was on fire. However, she had to stop. Slowly pulling away, Yelena looked down at you. Your lips were bruised, and your eyes were slightly blown out. She wondered if her own expression matched yours, but Yelena smirked and let her lips kiss your cheek and down the column of your throat. The small hitch in your breathing made the smile on Yelena’s face grow. You were so responsive to her touch. She rested her head on your shoulder and kissed the skin that wasn’t covered by your shirt. “It is time to get up, baby.” She glanced up at you as you groaned and threw your head back. “You could always—”

“No,” you gently pushed her off, and she landed next to you with a soft thud. “I’m good.” You sat up and swung your legs over the side of the bed. When you stretched your arms over your head, your shirt rose up. Yelena was mesmerized by the small section of your back. There were some imperfections, but you were so soft compared to her. “After a shower, I’ll be good to go,” you turned to look over your shoulder with a smirk. “And no, you can not join me. We would be very late if that was the case.”

Yelena felt the blush overtake her face, and she pulled a pillow over her face, groaning into the soft fabric. Your laughter was music to her ears as you walked into the bathroom. The pillow remained on her face until she heard the shower running. Slowly, she got up and walked over to your closet. She remembered the outfit you wore when you went to treatment together—simple, baggy, and comfortable. She tried to replicate that with the clothes she picked up. The door was cracked open, and Yelena easily placed the clothes on the sink.

“I packed your bag and a few snacks for you.” Yelena said, leaning against the wall. She wasn’t sure you heard her over the water.

“You did that,” you said in disbelief. Yelena smiled.

“Yeah, you are not alone in this.” Again, you were silent. It made Yelena’s anxiety worse because she knew you heard her.

“Thank you.”

*

Your friends in DC swore by weighted blankets. They went on and on about how it helped them sleep, quieted their mind, and comforted them when their anxiety got too much. However, you hated them. The blanket made you feel trapped and claustrophobic.

As you sat at the cancer center, a needle in your port, and Yelena sitting next to you, you felt like a blanket was over you. You could barely mumble a ‘thank you’ once the nurse left. Now your eyes were closed, and you basked in the weight that was suffocating. You wanted to rip it off. “Stop it,” you said with your eyes still closed. “Stop looking at me like that.” Yelena gasped.

“How did you—” you chuckled and shook your head. “How am I looking at you then, detka?”

“Like I am going to drop dead right here,” you teased with a smile.

“That is not funny.” Her tone was sharp, which made you finally open your eyes. You motioned for her to come closer. When you were able to put your hand on her cheek, her face softened.

“Right,” you whispered. “Sorry, not funny.” Yelena sighed and moved her chair closer to her. She kissed the palm of your hand and held it close to her lips. “I’m okay, Lena. Just a little tired today,” you closed your eyes. After your treatment was over, you would go back to the tower, and you would be tired and stuck there. Trapped. You hated feeling. Especially with how you were feeling, everyone would be hovering. That sounded awful. Maybe you could escape somewhere with Yelena this weekend. You groaned.

“What is wrong?” Your eyes opened at Yelena’s panic. “Are you hurt?”

“No, I’m fine,” you squeezed her hand. “Sorry, I was just thinking,” you sighed. “I want to do something with you this weekend,” you said as you reached for your water bottle that Yelena was quick to hand you. You thanked her with a smile and took a much-needed sip of water. “I want to get away, out of the tower. Seems a little impossible.” Yelena took your water bottle when you were done. Her green eyes were trained on your connected hands, and you could see her mind work a million different possibilities. It was cute. You pushed a piece of her hair behind her ear that pulled her out of her thoughts.

“We could go to Iowa.” Iowa? You were not expecting her to say that. Iowa is a state in the Midwest that borders the Mississippi, Missouri, and the Big Sioux Rivers. What the hell was in Iowa for a Black Widow?

“Iowa,” you said slowly. “What the hell is in Iowa? Besides nice people and corn.” Yelena laughed. The sound filled you with warmth, and it made you smile.

“The Bartons are in Iowa,” you raised her eyebrow in question. “Hawkeye.” OH! She could have said that from the beginning. “He retired to the countryside along with his wife and kids.” A small smile appeared on the blonde’s face. “It is probably my favorite place to go.”

“Then,” you managed to let go of Yelena’s hand and cupped her face. “We go to Iowa.”

*

“You are crazy! Do you know that? Do you know how insane this sounds? Just this morning you said it wasn’t a good idea for her to go to the cancer center; now you want to whisk her away to Iowa? Are you out of your mind?” Tony ranted.

Through her life, Yelena has been called a lot of things. Crazy was one of them, but it was a rare one. Yelena sighed as she filled a bag with medical supplies. The Black Widow was grateful Tony ran down to medbay after her meeting with Helen. The doctor suggested bringing things for extra hydration, such as gloves, alcohol swabs, needles, and a few bags of fluid. The plan was to leave tomorrow morning, stay until Sunday, and leave late afternoon. So Yelena grabbed two bags of fluid per day to be safe. “Call off the little vacay.” Yelena turned around to face him.

“No,” she said simply. “She was the one to suggest going away. I came up with Iowa. At least she is not going to France.” The blonde continued what she was doing. She knew you had your own supply of medication, but she wanted to grab extra. Tony continued his rant about the possibility of something happening.

“Look,” Yelena slammed her hands onto the table. His voice was giving her a headache. “Trust me that I will take care of her,” she squeezed her eyes shut. “Please.” Tony was quiet until she heard him slump into a chair with a sigh.

“I do trust you,” Yelena turned around to look at him. He was slumped back, and he looked tired. It looked like Yelena had never seen it before. “It’s just—”

“You are a worried father that feels a little out of their element,” Yelena guessed. Tony nodded. “Yeah, I get that.” She walked over to him and sat next to him. She felt a little lost as well. It wasn’t every day you were in a relationship with someone that had a life-threatening illness. “Nat is going to meet us there on Saturday. Laura is married to the most accident-prone Avenger I know.” The small jab at Clint got the man to laugh. “She will be okay, and if anything happens, we will come back here.” Tony nodded again.

“Pepper told me how she fell asleep in her office and she called you,” Yelena nodded. “You carried her back to her room without a second thought. Even this morning, you showed a level of care for her that I didn’t think was possible,” the blonde frowned.

“Are you trying to offend me?” She asked.

“No,” he answered and looked at her. “Are you worried about letting her in just for the possibility of losing her?” Yelena sighed and sat back in her chair. Her hands gripped onto her pants.

“All the time,” she admitted. “But like I told her, if she breaks my heart by leaving, then I am glad I gave it to her to break.”

*

“I’m so bored,” Kate whined as she lay on your bed. You rolled your eyes as you grabbed clothes and packed them into your bag.

“So sorry I’m so boring,” you teased.

“That is not what I said,” the archer defended. You knew that, but it was fun to poke fun at her. The small bag you were bringing was packed with your clothes, hygiene products, and medication. Your backpack was still packed with your sketchbook, tablet, and chargers from treatment. You needed to add a few more things, but that could wait. “Are you excited?” Kate asked. “To have your first couple vacation.”

“Didn’t expect it to be Iowa,” you huffed when you took the bag off the bed and sat down. “Expected it to be to the Bahamas or the Maldives.” Kate laughed and turned on her side to look at you. Her arm bent so her head could rest on her hand. Somehow her face got softer.

“This is kind of a big deal for her, taking you to Iowa,” she added. “Not even—” the archer’s voice trailed off.

“You know,” you mirrored the way she was lying. “I keep hearing snippets of this ex, but no one is telling me anything.”

“Did you ask Yelena?” You nodded. “And how did that go?”

“She almost bit my head off and not in the sexy way.” You deadpanned. Kate blinked at you. Her mouth opened and closed like a fish.

“Please give a girl a heads up when you are about to have sex so I can leave the state.” You pushed on her shoulder, and she fell onto her back. “Rude,” she grumbled, but she returned back to her position. You smiled. “I can’t tell you,” your smile fell. “Not because I don’t want to. Mostly because I don’t really know what happened between her and Vicky.” Vicky. Ew. You hated that name. “She was nice, but I don’t know,” the archer shrugged. “She rubbed me the wrong way.”

Now you were curious. “Do I rub you the wrong way?” You asked. The archer smirked. Since she was facing you, she missed Yelena leaning against the doorway.

“I don’t know, baby. Why don’t we find out?”

“Kate Bishop,” you felt bad. It would have been easy to warn the archer of the Black Widow’s entrance, but you were a little mean at heart. Kate jumped out of her skin, falling onto the floor with a thud. She was quick to stand up. “You are on my side of the bed.”

“I wasn’t even under the covers,” Kate defended. The blonde rolled her eyes and walked over to you.

“Hi, baby,” she bent down to kiss your lips.

“And that is my cue to leave,” Kate clapped her hands. “See you guys at dinner.” She gave you finger guns while she walked backwards and out the door.

“Bye, Kit Kat,” you called after her and heard the door slam shut. Yelena sat by your head, and you moved your head to rest on your lap. The blonde was still sending daggers to her friend that wasn’t there. “Hey,” you said, and you used one of your hands to squeeze her cheek. “You are going to give her a heart attack.”

“Good,” she looked down at you. Her green eyes were soft, and there was no real bite to her words. “How are you feeling?”

“Better,” you answered, took her hands in yours, and played with the rings on her fingers. “Especially now that you are here.”

“Sap,” she smiled.

“Only for you,” you yelped when Yelena moved to rest her back on the headboard and moved you further up her chest. You liked it here—feeling the steady beat of her heart and each calm breath she took.

“Stark is not happy we are leaving,” you hummed. Her hands began to massage the deep knots in your shoulders.

“I’ll talk to him at dinner.” It was team dinner tonight with bonding after. Kate told you that Bruce was arriving back tonight, and you were excited to meet the doctor. “You have magical hands,” you groaned.

“Is that so?” The blonde chuckled. “And here I thought you wanted Kate’s hands on you,” she kissed your shoulder. Again she chuckled as your body tensed up. “Or am I misremembering it?” Her lips touched every part of your skin she could reach. “She wanted your hands on her.”

“You sat up and turned to sit on her lap. There was a playful smirk on her face, but there was no hiding the vulnerability in her green eyes. The fear. You trailed your finger up and down her chest, watching it slowly rise and fall. “Your hands,” you whispered. “Are the only ones I want on me.” It was sudden. The way she flipped you onto your back and covered your body with hers. Her lips were on your neck and caused a gasp to escape your lips.

“So sensitive,” she teased. You laughed and put your hands on the back of her head, forcing her to look at you. “What is it?” She questioned.

“Just want to look at you,” you whispered. “You are beautiful.” The blush covered her cheeks, and she hid her face in your shoulder. You smiled, running your hands up and down her back. Her body sagged against you. The weight was comforting. It felt safe and warm.

*

After dinner, you sat with the Young Avengers, plus MJ and Ned. Yelena was right when she said they were always here, but they were nice. America started the game. It started off as simply hypothetical scenarios—what would you say to a jealous GPS or to your shoulder if it wanted to lead instead of follow? Then MJ asked a thought-provoking one—what would you say to time if time could answer back? The question stumped you, and you remained quiet as your friends went back and forth. The only person that adopted your silence was Yelena. She seemed lost in her head too.

What would you say to time? A million possibilities raced through your head. Why was her time up and not hers? Why is time moving so fast when you wanted it to slow down? “Hey kid,” you were thankful for Tony’s sudden interruption. He was standing next to Dr. Banner. “Do you have a minute?” You nodded, but before leaving with Tony, you looked at Yelena—a silent question passed through you both. Are you okay if I leave? She gave you a smile, nodded, and followed the duo to the kitchen. “Bruce, this is my daughter. Y/n, meet Bruce Banner,” Tony nudged the doctor with his shoulder. “This one might be smarter than both of us.” Bruce gave you a soft smile.

“Not very hard to be smarter than you, Tony,” the doctor teased him. Tony let out a dramatic gasp.

“Why do I put up with you?” He questioned. You chuckled with a shake of your head.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Doctor Banner,” you offered him your hand. At first he hesitated, but soon his hand contacted yours in a brief handshake. “I read your work on the structural dynamics of oxidoreductases.” You noted the surprise on Bruce’s face.

“Did you read that when you were 10?” Tony teased. You felt your body heat up from being called out.

“I was 13, thank you,” you said and slapped the billionaire on the shoulder.

“Impressive,” Bruce said, then turned to look at Tony. “You may be right. She is smarter than the both of us.” You rolled your eyes.

“Hey Snicker doodle,” you huffed at the annoying nickname Kate gave you. She heard you call her Kit Kat, and all throughout dinner she had been testing candy-themed nicknames. This one wasn’t bad compared to the others. “We are going to play cards. Wanna join?”

You hesitated. It sounded fun, but you wanted to talk more with Bruce. The man was fascinating, brave, and maybe a little stupid for testing his own creation on himself. “Go hang out with them,” Bruce made the decision for you. “We can discuss the complexities of structural biology and enzymology another night.” You smiled.

“I’ll hold you to that, Doctor Banner,” you said. “It was nice to meet you.” You gave them a wave before walking back to your friends. Quickly, you smacked Kate on the back of her head. “Snicker doodle,” you said, ignoring her ‘ouch.’ The hit wasn’t that hard. “Really?”

“What?” The archer complained. “I liked that one.”

“As did I,” Yelena put her arms around you.

“You both are so annoying,” you mumbled with no real hatred in your voice.

*

“It’s impressive,” Tony pulled his eyes away from you to look at his friend. The doctor was pulling out the leftovers from the fridge to build himself a plate. He returned to the tower after dinner was done and put away. Tony wondered how long he was going to stay. He looked better than the last time he was here—the bags under his eyes weren’t as dark.

The Blip changed him like it did with all the members of the team that survived those 5 years. But Bruce carried around so much guilt Tony never understood why. “She looks so much like you,” Tony wasn’t convinced. Sometimes he would stare at you and try to find himself in your features. He saw more of Jessica than himself.

“Really? I don’t see it.” Bruce shrugged.

“Because you don’t see the look in your eyes when you are working in the lab,” he put the plate in the microwave to heat up the food. “It was the same look she had when she brought up my paper.” Tony stood next to him, his back against the counter as he watched you.

It seemed like you were playing spoons, and Wanda and Vision joined the game. Your laughter mixed with the others, and it tugged at Tony’s heart. “Have you thought about what I asked you?” He kept his voice low so no one could hear them. “A way to cure her without using bone marrow.” Bruce opened the microwave when it beeped.

“I have some ideas,” the doctor sighed. “I’ll have to run some tests.” Tony nodded. “But Tony,” the billionaire looked at his friends; Bruce was staring at his food as if he was gathering the courage to eat. “Have you considered she doesn’t want to be saved?” Bruce’s comment froze Tony to the spot. It transported him to the time Bruce openly admitted to trying to kill himself. At the time, it was such a throwaway comment, but Tony thought about it a lot.

“I would never force her,” Tony said. “But I want to give her options.” Bruce nodded.

“I’ll be in the lab,” he said. “Working late.” The doctor walked towards the lab before Tony could respond. He sighed. Gods, he needed a drink. When you laughed again, Tony couldn’t look at you. Instead, he walked over to Pepper and Morgan. A heaviness threatened to drown him, and he was struggling to fight the tide.

_

Taglist: @likemick, @averagetmblrusser, @wandaromamoff69, @simpforyelenabelova, @cd-4848, @simpforyelenabelova @nymph0puppp, @sparks123123

[lesbian-deadpool]

Tony: Natasha's family looks down on me. Yelena talks about me right in front of my face in Russian because she thinks I’m not smart enough to learn another language. But I’ve been taking classes and now I can understand all the hurtful things she’s saying.

Y/N: And how did that help?

Tony: Well, now I know they all think I’m short and I was able to do some research and find that 1940s census that proves I’m above average in height.

Y/N: For 1940.

Tony: Yeah, I’m taller than the greatest generation! It doesn’t matter-