#i think this... this is precisely the “problem” Marvel has with Bucky...

[mrs-barnes-rogers-writes]

The Things I Can Do To Her (One Shot)

(A much requested follow up to The Things I Want To Do To Her)

Marvel AU

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader (a mention of Steve Rogers x Reader)

Theme: A/B/O

Summary: Bucky doesn't want to meet you. It's not that he doesn't want you. He's seen the photos. He's heard the stories from your mutual friends. You're the most beautiful omega he's ever seen, and you sound kind, fun, intelligent and possibly a bit of a handful. You'd be a good match for him AND Steve according to Natasha. He has no problem with sharing, he's not a prude. But that's the problem. Bucky has always been a little kinky, but over the years and as his alpha grew desperate for a mate, it had taken a new form. And that would be too much for you right?

Now he's met you, he's on your tail.

Warnings: A/B/O, sex, rough sex, lack of condom use. It's dirty. You've been warned. Also this is my first time writing smut!!!

You know Bucky's on your tail when you pull the car door closed. His scent nears as the car pulls away and you catch sight of him heading towards you.

"Home Miss?" The driver asks.

"Yes please, as quick as you can."

The joys of having fancy friends, means they connect you with fancy services like personal shoppers, the best restaurants and cars with drivers. Nat tells you they are all handpicked, mostly ex-military and as they drive, and quickly as you've asked, they do so with precision and safety. They're all on the pack payroll and you've told Natasha, as well as Tony, that you'll only use it if they let you pay but you're still yet to see an invoice.

When the driver pulls up outside your apartment you thank him and say goodnight. It's as the doorman opens the door to your building and you hear a screech of tires that you know you're about to have a visitor. You glance briefly down the street and see a car similar to the one you've just been dropped off in, swing quickly but with precision around the corner.

Stan the doorman dips his hat to you as you stroll up the steps.

"Good night Miss?"

"A mixed bag of events Stan." You reply as he opens the door, you pick up your pace a little as you here a car stop and a door open nearby. Bucky's scent wafts up your nose.

"You know that smirk looks like trouble Miss."

"Me? Never."

You’re one step into the lobby when there's a growl.

"OMEGA!!!!"

It's deep and primal and goes straight between your legs. You pick up the pace as Stan calls after you.

"Shall I shoot him or let him in?"

"Let him in." You laugh, walking as quickly as your red bottomed boots will allow. You press the elevator button repeatedly as Bucky enters the lobby. Your inner omega is giddy as you glance over your shoulder and watch your alpha stride in. Stan clearly recognises him and he salutes him as he passes. He mouths the words 'war hero' at you like you don't know. Bucky's towering stature and broad frame soon blocks your view of grey-haired Stan. You step in quickly to the elevator when the doors open. You hit the button to close the doors. You think you've been clever, you really do. Stupidly thinking there's enough space between the elevator, you, Bucky and the lobby, you take a breath and relax for a split second. As the elevator dings and the doors close you realise your aren't alone. There's a breath near your ear, a warm body against your back, an arm slips around your waist and Bucky's scent is everywhere. He pulls you roughly back into his chest, running his nose down your cheek before rubbing it against the mating bond between the dip in of your neck and shoulder.

"You think you're so damn clever don't you Omega." He growled as he started to nibble at your bond.

You feel something hard prodding against your ass and push back.

“You liked your gifts then?”

Bucky growled in response, rolling his hips into your ass. You pushed back smirking to yourself.

“You know…..I didn’t realise The Hobbit would get you going like this? If you’re looking for something more racy let me know.” You quip, as you try and turn in his arms. As you do your leg grazes something in Bucky’s free hand. You glance down and see the gift bag.

"Oh, you don't want them?" You ask, a tint of disappointment in your voice.

"What?" He replies, completely puzzled by your question.

"It's fine, I'll speak to Tony's guy see if I can resell them." You tell him, reaching for the bag.

"I didn't say I didn't want them. I wasn't going to leave them in the bar, not with those drunk idiots passing beer and shots around like circus clowns with water buckets."

"Well if you don't want them I'll just take them back." You say, reaching for the bag.

"I want them Omega." He replies, purring in a way you wonder if he's still meaning the gifts.

The elevator pings for your floor and you push away from him as the doors open, stepping out and walking towards your apartment door. Bucky watches you for a moment. Observing the sway of your hips and how your dress drapes beautifully around your ass.

"Goodnight James." You say, unlocking the door. Bucky's not sure what pisses him of more. The fact you're not even casting him a glance or that you've called him James and not Alpha. When he realises you've stepped into you apartment and the elevator doors are about to close, he acts quickly. Striding across the hallway, he kicks the door with his foot to stop it closing. He kicks it closed behind him and drops the gift bag on a console table you have near the door. You're taking off your jacket as he approaches you, slipping it off your arms and tossing it over a nearby chair. He mimics your actions and watches as you go over to a drinks trolley and pour yourself a vodka. Bucky notices the bottle. It's expensive. The same one Natasha drinks. He final takes his gaze of you and looks around, as you start to pour him an expensive bourbon.

This is the penthouse. You live in a penthouse. On your own. And you'd brought him expensive gifts. Sam was right. Your dirty books really did make you a lot of money and you didn't want him for his. Not like those other omegas that had sniffed around.

"You're looking around like you're lost." You say to him, as you put your hand out to pass him the bourbon. Bucky approaches, a frown on his face and a shake to his head.

"Sam said something earlier."

"Oh? What? Because he says a lot of things."

Bucky lets out a huff of laughter and takes the drink from you. He takes you in as he takes a sip. The way the dress wraps your body. The fact he's sure you aren't wearing much in the shape of underwear, and then there’s the boots. Louboutin's if he's not mistaken. You were younger than him by a few years and quite possibly the sexist omega he'd ever seen. He wanted to do unspeakable things to you and you'd not even flinched when you'd overheard them. Now, you stood looking back at him, leg slightly jutted out to one side and Bucky wants to drop to his knees and run his tongue up the inside of your thigh. He takes another sip of his drink instead.

"This is the good stuff." He says, glancing at the glass.

"Yeah, well Nat kept giving me shit about buying cheap booze, said it looked out of place on the fancy drinks trolley."

Buck hummed in agreement and took a step towards you.

"Sam said something earlier. Said you didn't need me for money."

"Wow, is that why you think I'm interested? Your money?"

"Honestly, it crossed my mind. Since this," Bucky said, shrugging his left shoulder, "any interest in me, as an alpha, boyfriend, potential mate, it's always comes down to the money."

"How so?"

"I got a big pay out from what happened, enhanced pension, Stark gave us all shares because we got him out, the few dates I've been on they start telling me about the gifts they'd like on the first date. Second dates roll around and they start sending me links to things they want. But none of them ever want to take a step further. I guess getting someone to see passed the arm, all the shit I carry around, I guess that costs money huh?" He tells you. He casts a look down at his feet, before looking around and shaking his head. The others were right, you didn’t need or want his money, but were you a match? Surely you could do better than an alpha like him that’s carrying a few extra pounds. Finishing the glass he steps forward and leans around you to put the glass on the trolley. Your bodies are close to touching and as he rights himself he can’t help but slip his hand to your waist. You mirror his actions, putting down your glass, but as you look back at him you look up in away that makes his legs weak. Like you want to give him the world. Like you admire him. Like you adore him. Your bodies graze each other and as he watches your eyelids flutter, you simply ask.

“Can I touch you Alpha? Please?”

He holds in the shuddered breath he wants to let out, swallows hard and nods. You lean into him, and his hand slips from your waist to around your back. You run a hand up his chest, letting it travel up his neck into his hair. Your other hand travels up his metal arm. Your eyes are fixed with his and Bucky holds his breath. You squeeze slightly, before breaking eye contact and looking down at your hand on his metal arm.

"This matters alpha but not in the way that you think." You released your grip on him, and slid it up to place it over the dip in his neck. Exactly where his bonding mark sat. A spot that you would soon hope would have your teeth marked into it. "What happened to you Bucky, it's part of who you are, just the same as every moment that happens to each of us. Same as things that have happened to me, to Steve, to our friends, they've made us who we are. It matters because what they did to you, is fucking horrendous. I might only be an omega but I'd rip their throats out if I could. You have to live with the outcome each day. Physically, mentally, emotionally, everything. It matters. It doesn't stop me wanting you."

Bucky shook his head in disbelief. You gripped the back of his head neck hard with one hand, and gripped his bond with the other, causing his eyes to snap to yours.

"It doesn't make me want you less. It makes me want you more."

Bucky let out a gruff but you didn't faulter.

"It makes me want to love you. To care for you. To hold you on your bad days, and the good. To try and make you happy." You tell him, moving your hand from the back of his neck and running it through his hair. You feel him relax. "Because you deserve it. You deserve to have your happy ending, a mate, half a dozen kids, whatever it is you want, and if that's not me than that's okay. You deserve a lot better than me. I'm told I'm a handful. But if it is me, then I'm yours Alpha. In any and everyway you want me."

You go to pull away but Bucky's grip on you is firm. His lips get nearer and hover over yours.

"Tell me again." He says, lips brushing yours as he speaks. "Tell me again, that your mine Omega, that you'll be mine, mine and Steve's, but know there's no going back if you do. If you say it, I'll never let you go."

His lips brush yours and you nod slowly, attempting to catch his lips with yours. He edges just a little away.

"Words Omega. I need to hear it."

"I'm yours Alpha, in every way."

Then his lips are on yours. Firm but slow. You reciprocate, and open your mouth slightly, hoping to feel his tongue against yours. Instead he pulls your lip with his teeth and nips at it with his canines. It's a welcome surprise when you nip him back. He pulls away and looks at you, face full of want and need. He ran his thumb over your lips and you opened them, showing him your own canines. Smaller than his as an omega but very much out and there. You'd let her out and she was willing. Every inch of Bucky's resolve snapped in that moment.

You were giving yourself to him. Possibly even submitting. You ran one your canines against his thumb, and as if to prove to him they were there for him. Then his lips were on yours again, frantic and wanting. He pushed his tongue into your mouth and you reacted in turn. One of his hands was on your ass and another on your neck as he rolled his hips against you. You lifted one of your legs and hooked it around his hip, making him buck against you and growl.

"Hold on to me." He growled against your lips. You put one hand on the base on his neck and another on his shoulder as Bucky grabbed you by the back of your thighs and lifted you. You chirped and wrapped your legs around him. You kissed him hard and he returned it. Pulling away for a moment, he muttered against your lips.

"Bedroom?" He asked.

"Double doors." You replied. Bucky made his way over to the doors with you still wrapped around him. Moving his metal arm to hold you under your ass, he used his other to slide open one of the doors. His lips continued to chase yours as he placed you on the huge bed. He feels you reach down to unzip your boots but he stops you, his hand over yours.

"Leave them on, at least whilst they’re around my neck."

"Who says they're going to be around your neck?”

"I do, now lay back and be a good girl."

You lay back on the bed, your ass near the edge as Bucky's hand spreads against your stomach as if to reinforce the instruction. He kneels and his head disappears under your dress and you feel his stubble rub against your thighs as he kisses them softly at first and then firmly as he ascends. He starts again when he reaches your mound, soft first and then firm. You gasp when he nudges his nose against your clit. He pulls at your lace underwear, now damp from your arousal. He flips up your dress and glances up at you, his eyes asking for consent.

"Please Alpha." You say, voice needy. Bucky pulls at your underwear, his impatience causing him to rip them. You feel his breath against you, as he pulls your legs onto his shoulders. "Say red if you want me to stop."

And then he descends. He licks at your clit before sucking at it. You feel his fingers against your core and his lips moved down. You feel his tongue begin to lap at you and his nose rubbed at your nub. You gasped as your back arched. Spurred on by your reaction, Bucky continued his motions. He moved and began to suck at your clit again, this time pushing a finger inside you.

"Alpha!" Spilled from your lips and Bucky growled against you, the vibration going straight into your pussy. You reached down and pushed your fingers into his hair and pulled. He growled again and removed his finger, burying his tongue into your folds. You could hear and feel how wet you were. Bucky pulls away for a moment, telling you how good you taste before his mouth is back on you. You feel him move back towards your clit and then feel the return of his finger, adding a second when you moan. The debauched groan you let out let's your alpha know he's found the right spot. He curls his fingers and you start to rock your hips.

"Good girl."

The praise goes straight to your pussy and you arch your back again and pull at his hair.

"Fuck Alpha!!" You callout. He quickens his actions as your gasps and moans get louder. One of your legs slips off his shoulders as you rock. Bucky grabs at it with his free hand and throws it back over his shoulder. "Shit, fuck Alpha. Bucky you're gonna, fuck."

You don't need to explain to Bucky. He knows you're close with how your legs tremble, how your scent has picked up and how your pussy flutters around his fingers. He curls his fingers a little more and sucks hard on your clit. When you pull his hair again he growls again against you and it's your undoing. You tighten around his fingers and your back arches so much that you feel like you might be levitating. You pulse around him and you feel distinctively wetter. Bucky pulls his fingers from you and you sure he murmurs 'fuck yes' as his tongue dives again between your folds. You wither on the bed, Bucky's name a whisper on your lips and your hand loose in his hair. He slows and you look down to see steel blue eyes looking back at you. He pulls away and lowers your legs from his shoulders.

"You taste so damn good 'mega." He tells you as he licks his lips.

Bucky raises from his knees in front of you and stands. He pulls off the black knitted sweater he's wearing to reveal his under shirt. Your omega perks up and you push yourself up. Bucky cups your face with one hand and undoes his belt with the other. You look at him, cheeks flushed but a glint in your eye, ready for your alpha. He rubs a thumb over your lips and they part, letting him in and sucking. He pants slide partway down his firm thighs and you reach forward and slip your hands into the back of his boxers and pull them down. You smile around Bucky's thumb, as they seem to struggle over the front, and you bring your hands around to lower them and release his cock. You smile again as it practically bounces free. Big, heavy, and dripping for you. You want him in your mouth immediately. You look up at him for permission to carry on and Bucky nods, slipping his thumb from your mouth, but keeping his hand on your neck. He's heard plenty from friends and the guys at the VA to know omegas rarely take their alphas in their mouths these days but god he hopes you do.

You slowly take him in your hand, before tilting your head and running your tongue up the side of his cock.

"Fuck." He gasps.

You take him fully into your mouth and he gasps again.

"Fuck 'mega."

Bucky looks down and he's sure your smiling around him. Your head moves back and forth against his cock and his body responds automatically rocking his hips. His grip on your neck gets firmer and you moan around him. The hands you've placed on his thighs grip him firmly. His free hand slipped into your dress and squeezed at one of your breasts and you moan around him again. You look up, your mouth still on him, and Bucky, knows it's his knot talking but he thinks he's falling in love with you. He rocks his hips and you relax your throat and take him more. Bucky can't remember when he's last felt this good. When your hands move to grip his ass, he feels his knot start to swell. He doesn't want to stop you, he really doesn't but he won't risk spilling down your throat so soon and knotting your mouth. He pulls out and you huff.

"Hey, I wasn't done." You say, voice rough from his cock nudging your throat. He smirks at you, amused by your keenness to have his dick in your mouth. He grips the back of your neck and pulls you to stand quickly. You snap your jaws at him in response and he kisses you hard, slipping his tongue in his mouth. It's followed by you nipping and growling at each other. Bucky's hands slide up your sides and he grips your dress and pulls it over your head.

He drops it to the floor as he takes you in. He begins to purr as he cups your breasts and runs his hands over you. He notices some of the tops of your legs are scattered with scars here and there, as is your stomach. He lets his thumb run across one on your hip. When he looks back at your face you refuse to meet his eyes. Running one hand around your back and another to the back of your head, Bucky pulls you against him, and kisses you with everything he has. You relax against him and he lifts you into his arm. He places you back on the bed and fully steps out of his pants.

A surge in confidence has him pulling off his undershirt. You had shown him all of you and he wanted to do the same. He placed one knee on the bed and placed a hand on your thigh as you silently reached for him. Realising you still had your boots on, he slowly unzipped them. Placing soft kisses on your legs as he went, he pulled the boots off of you. He lifts you further up the bed and reaches for two of your pillows. He places one under your head and another under your hips. You admire him as he does. Bare as you are but face full of concentration and care. You glance at his shoulder. The scars he bares are worse than yours, for worse reasons too but he's allowing you to see them.

"Alpha." You say softly, reaching for him. He crawls up your body, kissing you when he's eye level with you. It's softer this time but still all encompassing. You run your hands over his shoulders and into his hair. Feeling him hard against you causes you to kiss him back with fever, and you slip a hand between you to grip him. He stops you as your hand meets his cock and pins it down. You snap your jaws at him and he growls back.

"Be patient."

You huff and wrap your legs around him. He mutters that you're a handful against your lips and nips along your jaw, down you neck and to your bonding mark. He runs he tongue against it and then his canines, causing you to gasp. Your body reacts and slick forms between your legs as you open them wider. Bucky snakes his free hand down your body and between your legs and guides himself in as your body reacts to him.

"Alpha! Fuck!" You breathed out as he stretched you. Bucky nipped at your neck again, your body responding immediately to your alpha, hips moving to allow him further into you.

"You're so tight doll, so good for me."

He stilled for a moment taking you in, you gazed back at him and ran a hand through his hair. Realising he was still holding one of your arms down, he went to let go but you moved quickly and pulled his hand back. You slotted your fingers into his as if you were holding hands but with him still holding you down. Finding you wanted him to hold you like that, he rocked his hips, and you pushed back.

You really are a handful, he thought.

You rocked more and Bucky growled at you.

"Behave."

You went to kiss him but bit his lip instead. Bucky growled and rocked in and out of you, as you began to arch your back for more friction against him, he slipped his arm around your back and gripped you tightly. You pushed your hips up to his again, so he pushed harder. You groaned and he quickened his pace.

"More Alpha. Bucky please."

He thrust harder, deeper and faster. Your hips continued to meet as much as you could with how Bucky was holding you. The arm around you started to grip you harder and you felt yourself dip more into the mattress as he body pressed even more into your, using his weight to hold you down. He began to grind his hips harder into yours and you cried out as he hit your sweet spot.

"Fuck, Alpha right there. Fuck."

Bucky was relentless, and you felt your orgasm building, like a coil in your stomach about to snap. Feeling his knot being to swell, he placed his lips against your ear.

"Present Omega." He said, voice gruff. It wasn’t a command but you obeyed anyway. Bucky didn’t pull out of you until you began to push yourself up, waiting to see if you’d willingly present to him. He smirked as you did and he reached out to help you turn. You took his help but snapped your teeth at him as you did. Bucky returned it with slapping your ass. “You really can’t behave, can you?”

“I think you might need to teach me how.” You said as you presented your ass to him, wiggling it for added effect, as you positioned yourself on the pillows. Bucky squeezed your slapped cheek hard.

“No, I don’t think I will, I like you like this, full of trouble, and full of me.” He said pushing into you. The moan you let out was sinful. He pulled out again, leaving just the tip before pushing in deeply again. The moan you let out let him know he was in the right spot. He ran his metal hand up your spine, and gripped your shoulder where your mark was and started to pull in and out of you deep and slowly at first and then quickening his pace. The groans and gasps you let out encouraging him.

“Don’t worry ‘mega. I know you were close, gonna get you to come for me, gonna fill you up, fill you full of my seed. Didn’t even ask me for a condom dirty girl. You’re mine aren’t you doll? Say you’re mine ‘mega, say you’re mine and Stevie’s.”

Your reply comes muffled from the pillow and is full of need.

“Yours alpha, yours, yours and Steve’s, please, knot me, fuck please.”

Bucky pace quickens to the point of being frantic and he suspects he’ll have to carry you wherever you want to go in the morning. Before he has chance to worry if it’s too much, like he has since you were first mentioned to him, your voice calls out to him asking for more. He fucks into you harder and faster and you call out to him again.

“Close Alpha. Please, close.”

He squeezes your mark as he pounds into you.

“Cum for me Y/N, cum on your alpha’s dick.”

You cum hard, clenching around him. Feeling you tighten around him and the debauched moan you let out push Bucky over the edge and he comes with a shout.

“Fuck ‘mega.” He roars out, knot popping into place and securing you into him. His dick is still twitching when he leans over you, his chest to your back. He nips at your mark and he feels you relax underneath him. Your scent is full of contentment and Bucky exhales deeply.

“You okay?” He asks. You tilt your head a little and nod. You catch the way Bucky’s looking at you. It’s not concern, but curiousness. Is he wondering if you’re okay with what just happened? If it was too much? Or how willing you’d been?

“I’m okay Alpha. I don’t think I’ve ever come that hard before. I definitely haven’t presented or chirped before."

Bucky kisses you as much as he can from the position you’re in and tells you he’s going to get you comfortable. He wrapped an arm around your middle and lifted you, using the other to move the pillows. You whimpered a little as his knot pulled as he moved you both to your sides.

“Shit, sorry doll.”

“It’s okay.” You replied, voice tired. One arm stayed around you, as Bucky settled you both, the other now acting as a pillow as you laid your head on his bicep. Bucky speaks to you, his voice low, telling you how beautiful you are, that he’ll take care of you, whispers of the future on his lips as you drift off to sleep.

[buckydeservesthebest]

One of the things that I find interesting about the situation of the other mind control victims, is that in comparison, the degree of subjugation and inhumanization that Bucky suffered was far worse in every way...

I mean, unlike him, absolutely none of the other characters were stripped of their identity, they all knew who they were, they knew their names, their family and their history. Each of them continued to exist as a consciousness/person. HYDRA broke Bucky's mind, for decades they tried to erase, remove and take away everything that made him himself, and it was only until they succeeded that the Winter Soldier's programming began, not before, because as Zola's notes said, Bucky's will continue to resist. To force him to do what they wanted, Bucky had to cease to exist, and even then, despite all their attempts, his memories and emotions continued to surface over time, which is why the erasure of his memory and the use of trigger words was mandatory before every single mission.

Regardless of how the other types of mind control work, neither Clint, Erik, Bruce, Jessica, Luke, Yelena nor the other Black Widows had to be "broken" before they began to comply with the orders of their mind controllers. Perhaps there was indoctrination in the case of the Black Widows as infants, but it was precisely because of this that they were not "broken" morally and psychologically, because nothing they did under mind control went against the beliefs the Red Room instilled in them, quite the contrary.

It also seems to me that there is another big difference between Bucky's case and that of the others. And is that unlike Bucky, all the others had a certain degree of freedom that allowed them to be able to perform actions that required more thought and planning. As in the case of the BW, who to be able to do complex jobs such as espionage and infiltration had to be able to act, pretend, lie, make decisions on their own to fulfill their mission, *without* the need for Dreykov to order them to do so. It came from one of the BWs the idea to request Taskmaster's intervention after Yelena defected. One of them even told Taskmaster to "smile"! An indication that they retain their emotional capacity.

Clint played an advisory role for Loki, thinking and offering the most efficient tactics and plans to accomplish his goal. Erik offered his scientific knowledge for the same. The point is that they kept their ability to think at a complex level, so that they both thought on their own about the best way to help Loki. In Jessica's case for example, the act of assassinating Reva Connors was not exactly the order Kilgrave gave her, he told her to "take care of her", and while the order was ambiguous, the idea or impulse to "kill" technically came from Jessica.

Interestingly, both the mind stone and Kilgrave's mind control seem to make their victims believe, to a certain degree, that they want to do as they are told to do. That's why in Clint's case, the respect he felt for Fury influenced his intention to kill him, as Loki told him. Kilgrave's case is clearer, as all those who have been controlled by him feel that they want to "please" him. Even the case of the Black Widows seems similar, as Yelena said "you are fully conscious, but you don't know which part is you". And if I remember correctly, Jessica also questioned at some point which part of her was the one following Kilgrave's orders.

When the Winter Soldier was activated not only did Bucky not exist, but the remaining non-person was under a trance that forced him to comply with the orders of his handlers, he was not even conscious of what was going on around him. That's why the missions HYDRA assigned him were "simple", assassinate a target, leave no witnesses, retrieve objects and/or protect his handlers. No espionage, infiltration or advice on planning and tactics, no actions that required more freedom to think on his own. He didn't even understand Pierce's sarcastic question about whether he wanted milk, because he had no wants. He couldn't even speak unless he was ordered to do so! Each and every one of his actions were, what I'd call, robotic, programmed, without a level of reasoning or complex or abstract thought, unlike all other cases of mind control.

And the irony is, of all the mind-controlled victims who were forced to commit murder, the only one who suffers endlessly with remorse is Bucky! The only one who feels like a monster who does not deserve forgiveness is Bucky! The only one who feels he must make amends is Bucky! Neither Clint, Yelena or Jessica feel they must right the wrongs they were forced to do.

The horror of being controlled is never addressed for Bucky like it is for Clint, Erik, Jessica, Bruce, Yelena, even for minor characters like the people of Westview.

THIS. Each of them have said "poor me, I'm a victim of abuse by a third party and suffered greatly". *They recognize themselves as victims*. Bucky has not once complained about the 70 years of torture and enslavement he suffered, or the life that was taken from him, or the identity stripped from him, no... because what haunts him are the crimes he was forced to do, and on top of that he believes he is the victimizer and not the victim in these situations. And yet some Marvel executives dare to say that he "hides behind the excuse of lack of control"!? He has literally never tried to excuse himself! He has literally done the complete opposite, believing himself to be solely responsible for the wrongs his captors have done, for a situation in which he didn't have the remotest agency.

But of course, everyone else can be recognized as 100% innocent by the rest of the characters, by the premise of the show and by the production itself. Everyone, absolutely everyone, but Bucky...

I swear this... this situation, this unfairness outrages me, infuriates me, makes my blood boil and turns my stomach beyond what any words allow me to express....

🤡 Markus and McFeely 🤡: “Yeah, Bucky’s just a POW who had his entire agency explicitly removed in not one but TWO ways but he’s for sure guilty because we don’t want him to have fruit salads with Steve”

[companionjones]

Days, Weeks, Months, Years (8/10)

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x fem!Reader

Fandoms: MCU, Marvel

Warnings: Cursing, Canon level violence

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10

*******

The goal was to destroy the base. That was exactly why Hulk was on standby (his favorite place to be) to do his actual favorite thing: Smash.

Before you came in, you, Tina, and Nat were sent in like scalpels to precisely take out all human dangers. The Maximoff twins were there for all other combatants. Tony and Sam were your eyes in the sky, and Steve and Bucky handled the perimeter on the ground.

A few hours into the mission, Nat was taking down a hallway of unfriendlies by herself, as she tended to do. She called for you and Tina to keep going. You had no problem with it, you trusted Nat implicitly. Valentina, however, rolled her eyes. "She has no idea what she just did."

"What do you mea--Ugh!" You were roughly pushed back into some sort of dark passageway.

You were fighting blind. All you knew was that Tina did it. She had turned on you all.

"We got a Code Ward!" you yelled into your comm.

"Who?" Steve was the first to respond.

"Who do you think?!" You were able to say before a gun went off.

For a moment you saw a heinous look on Tina's face before you reached down and felt warm liquid on your stomach. You started coughing up blood, and you fell to the ground.

There was chaos in your ear. Most people were asking where the hell you were, but you had no idea. You didn't want to waste breath telling them that when you had one important message to relay.

"Buc-Buc-Bucky-I-love-you."

You couldn't hear him, couldn't hear his response if he had one. You couldn't hear anything over blood rushing in your ears. Your breathing was getting slow. Too slow. You couldn't hear yourself breathe anymore.

~~~

Bucky stopped breathing when he heard that gunshot through his comm. Then, he gasped in more air than he ever thought possible when he heard you say what you said. Because, in that moment, one thought ran through his mind: he'd never get to say that back to you.

He didn't know how long he took. It could've been immediately, it could've been years, but Bucky called through his comm, "Nat. Where are they?"

The Black Widow was in as much shock as everyone else. "I...I don't know...I--"

"Wanda. I don't care what you have to do. Find Y/n...Sam, Tony, I better not see either of you drop an inch. We're not letting the bitch that did this get away."

"Bucky, I--"

Bucky didn't care what Steve had to say. If it didn't get him closer to you, it didn't matter to him.

Bucky could suddenly hear Wanda grunting. It wasn't through the comms. The comms malfunctioned while Wanda's voice echoed through the mountains, and Bucky watched as the base, almost hidden by the trees in the forest, lifted from the ground and started to spin.

Bucky thought that you would have loved to see that. You loved to see Wanda's powers in action when they weren't held back by protocol.

After a couple spins, the base was put back down. Besides the shift in the forest, it was like it never happened.

"She's here!" Wanda's voice sounded through the comm again, and Bucky took off in a dead sprint toward the base.

Pietro's voice then sounded, "Meet-meet me at the jet. I got her."

Bucky didn't have to change his direction to get there. He considered having the quinjet take off without him if it meant getting you medical attention sooner, but by then he was already there.

Bruce was leaning over you, already thoroughly working on you.

"How--?" Bucky asked before his brain could stop him from possibly distracting the doctor.

Banner didn't get distracted. "The Other Guy cares about her, too."

"We all care for her," Pietro notified with his sister nodding next to him, "but we all know that you care for her more than all of us."

Barnes didn't even look at the man in front of him, but it wasn't out of hatred. Bucky's eyes were stuck on you.

On your blood-soaked clothes. On the hole in your stomach.

Bucky's breathing got ragged. His breaths turned to sobs. He fell to his knees with Wanda and Pietro catching each of his shoulders.

Then, through his enhanced hearing, Bucky heard someone getting attacked outside the quinjet while it was taking off. He glanced out out a window to see Steve straddling a still-breathing Valentina. Though, by the looks of it, she wouldn't keep breathing for long.

"That's-my-best-friend's-girl," he gritted between punches.

Bucky stood, still hyperventilating, and pressed the button that would open up the loading dock to the plane, and he jumped out. The quinjet was only a few yards off the ground, so it didn't hurt the super-soldier.

"She's-my-friend! She's-on-my-team!" Steve was relentless until he was literally thrown off by Bucky. "What are you doing?!" Steve yelled.

Valentina moved to get up. She actually moved until Bucky shot her a look that must've been so terrifyingly threatening that Valentina collapsed back to the ground.

He didn't take his eyes off Valentina as he answered Steve. "Y/n decides what we do with her."

"Buck--"

"Y/n decides," James growled. His attention went to his comm. "Sam, take her back. Hurt her if necessary."

For once, Sam didn't have a witty retort as he landed and approached the woman.

Tony landed briefly too, and he took the two best friends back aboard the quinjet. He seemed to have taken Nat at some point as well because she was aboard then, sitting in a corner, looking like she had just seen a ghost.

Before the super-soldiers took a step towards Bruce pseudo-operating on you, Bucky put a weak hand on Steve's shoulder.

Steve turned to his best friend.

"I need you to take the lead again." Bucky told him. Barnes understood what he himself had started to do.

Steve looked solemn, "Buck, I can't--"

"I can't look at her without--" Bucky broke down in tears again.

Steve caught his best friend. Steve agreed, "Okay. I got you. I have you."

*******

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10

Author's Note: Thank you so much for reading! Fill up that heart and reblog if you liked it. I would also really appreciate a comment, if you have the time. If you would like to read more, check out my masterlists. Have a nice day, night, or whatever time it is for you! <3 <3 <3

*******

Tag List: @sidraaaaaaaaa // @dontworryboutitsweetheartxx-blog // @mayusenpai666 // @onceithough // @greatenthusiasttidalwave // @shadowzena43 // @ampersam // @sebastians-love // @cjand10 // @silentwhisper666 // @superaveng // @vicmc624 // @ltsaradharkness

[riyawriteshermind]

Tu khwaab sa mila Kyun khwaab todh doon

Bucky Barnes x reader

Genre: angst, revenge

Fandom: Marvel

Summary: She was an angel before she was turned into the devil. He was hooked. Why was seperation too hard. You were nothing. All He See Is RED.

Words: 1.5K

Warning⚠⚠: mentions of death, murder, cheating, bit of cursing, dark...

A/N: Reblog and leave a comment. I would really like to hear your opinions.

📍Masterlist pinned in my profile📍

DO NOT STEAL MY WORK (also includes my posters for each story) !! I’LL HUNT YOU DOWN AND KICK YOUR ASS. 

(If you want to use my posters then you’ll have to contact me through Tumblr or through DMs.)

Edit: I'm a lazy bitch... I should have written this part.. Sorry for making it confusing...

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There was nothing in his mind. Yet the thought of you was filling up his mind like poison. Why was he dreading it? That wasn't necessary. He was happy. Even though it wasn't the case for the people around him. You were his past. He needn't live with guilt every day. The guilt of gradually falling in love with you. A thing that was a blessing for you was a fault in his plans.

This was his plan from the beginning. Get to know Nora through you, because he knew she wasn't vulnerable and easy to trap as you were. He was cautious, even though he didn't need to be. He could see it in your eyes that you were utterly, obliviously in love with him. But there was a problem. Nora was dating at the time. It was an unknown fact to all that Bucky and Nora knew each other outside of the avengers. Lingering stares, seductive gestures from her during parties were his signs of confirmation. So that’s what he worked with.

The phone on the nightstand lit up. As she looked over to respond. Her face contorted into a confused one. She glanced over to the other side of the room. Her victim was still in the shower. As instructed, she walked out of the motel room crushing the soft metal under her red heels. 

* * * * 

Bucky let out a sigh of satisfraction and contentment as he wiped his upper body- fresh out of the shower. “Damn it!” he cursed, accidentally stepping on something hard. Suddenly his lungs were devoid of oxygen. Nostrils flared, ocean blue eyes drowning in the depths of hell, hands shaking. He had never worn his clothes faster in his life. Grabbing his cellphone, he made a beeline for the entrance of the motel. 

He knew the earth’s Mightiest Heroes wouldn’t rest until they avenge what one of their beings has lost. They were called the Avengers afterall.

The woman in his bed was no longer there. She was a few minutes ago. His hands were wrapped around the tracking device that was installed into her bracelet, now in pieces. Luckily he didn’t find the necklace anywhere, so he decided to follow its directions. But all his confirmation about where Nora could be, was down the drain when he saw the red dot he was following reached a place he never thought of seeing again. It wasn't his friends. But enemies. 

Not just A Hydra base. The same hydra base that produced the winter soldier.

Dripping of water droplets and the ruins of the blown up building crunching under the weight of his boots were the only sounds audible even to his enhanced hearing abilities. Gulping down the dreading, nightmare inducing thoughts flooding his mind, he walked further into the dark hallways. Scanning through each room, he took each step with extreme precision walking out of each corridor. Until he heard a cry, it made him stiff in his path. Walking faster he reached a room that could be easily referred to as the devil’s workspace. It was one of the rooms he was held in. Calloused fingers brushed the opaque turned glass,wiping down years of dust and debris. Adjusting to the dim light in the room he squinted to see what’s inside. A grunt of frustration left his lips as he recoiled to wipe down the three inch circle one more time. 

But this time, before he could process what was going on life flashed before his eyes. He saw a glimpse of himself tied up to the devil’s machine. He stumbled hitting his back on the opposite wall. Heaving and panting he clutched his chest, moisture consuming his vision. His mind was playing tricks on him. He quickly took his phone to call Steve out of muscle memory, only to realise that he couldn't do that anymore. 

This never happened. Steve was always there for him. Clearly he didn’t think this through. He was so caught up in the ecstasy of his plan working out so smoothly that he didn’t think twice that if all of this was worth the woman he was doing all this for. Cursing, he snapped out of his trance. 

He was angry with how much power you had over him. Why did just another ordinary girl like you make it hard for him to betray. Though the fact that irritated him the most was that you were oblivious to the power you held. He remembers the time when Civil war happened, you stuck with him rather than siding with your own brother.  Another muffled scream, made him jump out of his skin. 

Quickly jumping back into position, he kicked the door open only to witness the unthinkable. In the middle of the room, nothing but a bed with a RED mattress and sheets. Nora and another man, both naked and tangled in the bed sheets. With a screech Nora bunched up the bed sheet to cover herself, with apologies and excuses falling from her crimson lips. But the only thing Bucky could see was RED. Pointing the gun towards the man he pulled the trigger as he ducked. Everything happened in a flash for the next few moments. There was some kind of mist coming from the vents. It did not take more than 2 secs to fill the whole room. He saw the silhouette of the man running away and without skipping a beat he shot him.

Or what he thought was him.

Bucky felt his soul leave his body when he heard the blood curdling screams of his beloved lover. Searching through the mist, he felt emotions that he had never felt before bubbling in his veins. He fell back in horror as he stepped on something. It wasn’t something, it was the dead body of Nora. 

That was almost 5 years ago. Her death was ruled a homicide but charges couldn't be placed and the police weren't able to arrest him as all evidence was erased. And Fury transferred Bucky to the SHIELD headquarters in Wyoming. Nobody except for THE AVENGERS knew about this. 

You learned how to hide the pain, how to look normal. You understand why some go cold inside to escape the pain of isolation, why they let their empathy wither and die: numbness over feeling, mental anesthesia. You refuse. The thing is, regardless of the pain, you believe that living with an incomplete soul is a form of death, and you'd rather be a humane human in pain than a zombie needing to bite others to feed. 

It was hard for you to accept at first. But with the help of your loved ones you pushed through. 

When the pain is processed, when the thoughts are done, when the ghosts are gone, there is a sense of tranquility vengeance. It is a sense that the calm turbulent mind can work wonders. That it is not anchored to anything other than itself, yet it is so vast that it is stable.

He was numb. 

People can grow strong enough to whisper at the iron bars that hold them and see them bend out of their way, like the most crazy magic. That's what love can do: fix souls, fix brains, cure us all. I wish I could have mastered that way, but it's hard when you've been starving for so long. You can sit and call for help. You can act like there is no cage, wear a mask of coping and normality. You can rage against the bars. Yet what love makes simple, no other thing can solve. There is another escape route, yet it is one into another great pain. It is possible to be so emotionally starved that you slip through the bars, no longer bound but with your soul crumbling. That was his way out. What followed was endless emotional marathons on bleeding knees. 

"You deserve something you don’t have to question. You deserve someone who is sure of you" Your brother's voice rang in your head. 

Now that she had nothing to lose, she was free.

Reminiscent thoughts brought tears to his eyes as he held the wedding invitation in his hands. You were getting married. 

The joy of being close to you was tremendous. He learned to appreciate the little things in life as he had no more to. 

Songs sung on sleepless nights were your favorite. He assumed they were your husband's favorite too. He skimmed the crowd for the bride and groom. Then he saw it. You, standing beside your husband……… 

A face he will NEVER forget. A face he searches for each time he's in a crowd. The man responsible for his fate. The man that ruined his life. He never knew anything about him. Yet he yearned to find him. 

Fishing out the wedding invitation from his pocket he frantically searches for his name. 

Matt Murdock weds Y/n Stark.                          It read. 

That name cleared The void. The void that blocked his vision all these years was now an open door. Through it he could see the past. He stood in complete horror as he read the card again and again. Turning it to the 2nd page, he saw it… written in RED. 

"AFTER ALL…. STARKS GET WHAT THEY WANT". 

He glanced up to lock eyes with you whose lips twisted into a sinister smile. And bucky thought…… 

Were your eyes always RED? 

--------------------------------------------------

A/n: HEYYYYY! @turbolisedcomet this was so much fun! Congratulations on 500 🥳 you deserve it soo much! This challenge was really interesting... Very interesting topics too.. I really needed this... Some sort of a push to resume my writing.. 😁

Tagging a few angels: @zemosimp05 , @jobean12-blog , @barnestuff , @sj-ficrecs , @mysticunicorn7 , @handmaiden-of-mischief , @lovelybarnes , @lovelokiqueen , @high-functioning-lokipath , @blanketbarnes , @immersed-in-mischief , @buckysbabygorl @donaweasley , @jurassicbarnes-writes , @pellucid-constellations , @kinanabinks , @sebs-oceaneyes , @lil-stark , @lil-nas-z , @babyboibucky , @mentallyunstabletheorist , @itsberrydreemurstuff . I'm sorry if I've missed some😊. Hope you enjoy...

[iamnmbr3]

I know you're not happy with the show but making things up is really damaging your reputation. The show is not a failure; it's the biggest launch of any disney+ show so far with the highest ratings. The first trailer has so many views because it's 7 months old, compared to the first episode being out a week and a half. The CGI doesn't look like it was done by a two year old (seriously lmao??). The tesseract looks dull because it powers down once in the TVA. Stop pretending Loki was mind controlled when Marvel confirmed in his character bio that he was emotionally influenced by the scepter. Bucky was mind controlled. Selvig and Hawkeye were mind controlled. Loki was influenced like Banner and the others were by the sceptre when they were around it on the helicarrier. Please consider that care has been taken to make Loki more multifaceted in this show, not OOC - he's just got more emotion and character to him now and feels to me and a lot of others, more like a living, breathing person who is struggling in the immediate aftermath of being shown the most traumatic recap of his life. I'm really sorry you're not happy with him, but his emotional core and inner heartbreak is being treated with love and respect by the show.

Hahahahahahahahhaha oh my god anon this was a funny read. Ngl usually when ppl come clowning in my inbox with incoherent rants I just delete it. But this was some quality clowning. This was just too funny to not share with everyone. So I’m gonna go line by line here.

“I know you're not happy with the show but making things up is really damaging your reputation.”

I’m gonna be real with you anon. This makes me sad because I will never write anything this funny. This made me laugh out loud. My reputation? My reputation?!?! I run a blog on Tumblr dot com. No reputation can recover from that. Also as to making things up? Uh. Where??? Just because you don’t like what I have to say doesn’t mean it’s made up. However with that kind of attitude I think you have a bright future ahead of you working in PR for the GOP. They love people who talk like you.

“The show is not a failure; it's the biggest launch of any disney+ show so far with the highest ratings.”

Ok I literally just talked about that HERE. But let me add a few more points here for your convenience. First of all, Disney+ hasn’t actually been doing that great. In fact Disney’s stock recently fell precisely because Diseny+ has underperformed. It missed growth expectations and none of the shows have attracted that big of an audience. Loki had MASSIVELY more interest than either WandaVision or TFATWS and yet it only drew 890K households for the premier - just barely more than either of those shows got. There haven’t been any numbers released for the episodes after the premier but given how boring and unfunny and uninteresting the premier was, I wouldn’t be surprised if a lot of viewers, especially more casual ones, didn’t come back for more.

“The first trailer has so many views because it's 7 months old, compared to the first episode being out a week and a half.”

Incorrect. Trailers get most of their views in the first week, and the vast majority in the first 2 weeks. Indeed, they get the most engagement in the first DAY usually and then it starts slowing. The early trailer that got 18 million views got most of that very quickly and then has grown extremely slowly ever since. The more recent trailers are not tracking to get anywhere near than engagement. Why? Because interest is dropping. Now maybe people just aren’t as interested in the trailers because they’re just happy to watch the actual show now or because they loved the first trailers so much that they decided to watch the show just based on that and didn't want to spoil themselves watching later trailers. Who knows. I certainly have my theories though.

"The CGI doesn't look like it was done by a two year old (seriously lmao??)."

Actually I said the posters looked like they were done by a 2 year old. Most of the CGI looks like cheap made-for-tv effects done by an underpaid and under qualified adult. But go off I guess. Also don’t even try to defend those badly photoshopped posters to me. I have eyes. I could argue with you but a picture is worth a thousand words. And just. Look at this thing! This is real. It’s so bad but it’s real. Who wants this?

"Stop pretending Loki was mind controlled when Marvel confirmed in his character bio that he was emotionally influenced by the scepter.Bucky was mind controlled. Selvig and Hawkeye were mind controlled. Loki was influenced like Banner and the others were by the sceptre when they were around it on the helicarrier"

That’s mind control lmao. The scepter was magically influencing his mind. Do you think emotions come from our feet or something?! (And that’s not even getting into the torture and conditioning he underwent or the fact that the Other had his claws in Loki’s mind and was hurting and threatening him in addition to the mind control). Also why do you think it’s appropriate to come on my blog like this and make these sorts of demands? This is my fandom blog that I run for fun. I can engage however I want. You need to learn to cope with that. If you enjoy the show that’s great. Go enjoy it. Don’t tell other people what to think. That’s not appropriate, reasonable, or healthy. If you find yourself truly unable to cope with strangers having different opinions from you about a tv show based on a comic book I definitely suggest you seek help from a professional.

"Please consider that care has been taken to make Loki more multifaceted in this show, not OOC - he's just got more emotion and character to him now and feels to me and a lot of others, more like a living, breathing person who is struggling in the immediate aftermath of being shown the most traumatic recap of his life."

I don’t see any evidence at all of care being put into the show. The writing and storytelling is incredibly sloppy. It gets even the most basic things wrong - like Loki’s speaking style or the fact that he wasn’t young in the 70s or that he speaks the Allspeak not English or his skin tone or hair length or the fact that Jotun!Loki should’ve had ridges on his skin. The head writer and story creator also is openly disdainful of Loki and talks about how he’s a “shithead” and “proper and pompous” and how he needs to be put in a situation where he has to stop “blaming” Odin and Thor for all his problems. He shows no understanding of Loki’s character or care for it. Maybe care was put into the show and they just messed up but I don’t see evidence of that. There’s certainly no way you could know that for a fact unless you are involved in the production in which case you are a biased source who has an ulterior motive for silencing critics of the show.

Also TV!Loki doesn’t feel like a real person to me at all. He feels like a caricature. He doesn’t act like Loki or do or say the things he would or even stand like he would. Look how Loki behaved when being interrogated by Natasha or when being berated by Odin. Loki is someone who puts on a performance as a sword and a shield. TV!Loki is a stupid clown.

"I'm really sorry you're not happy with him, but his emotional core and inner heartbreak is being treated with love and respect by the show."

No it’s not. It’s being turned into a punchline. The “humor” in the show derives entirely from invalidating Loki’s feelings and retconning his motivations and humiliating and mocking and denigrating him and turning him into a literal punching bag. The show robs the character of all dignity and seriousness and makes a mockery of him and the fans he meant so much to. And for what? The humor isn’t even funny.

[mrsalwayswrite]

This Night (40s!Bucky Barnes x Hispanic!OFC)

Summary: When she saved a scrawny blond in a back alley, she would never have anticipated the ripple effects it would have. Nor how meeting someone with a pair of baby blue eyes and cocky smirk would draw her in, encouraging her that for one night, to taste revelry like she never had before.

This is my submission for @allaboardthereadingrailroad​ Marvel Diversity Challenge! My prompt was “a little danger never hurt”. 

I am going to admit, I’m super nervous to post this. I’ve never written a person of color before and would be horrified to accidently offend someone. That being said, I also had so much fun writing this piece. I adore 40s Bucky and Steve, so I was excited to finally have the inspiration to write them. 

Few notes:

-All translations are via google and what I can remember from university (if any of my Spanish is wrong, please please please someone tell me and i’ll correct it!)

-I threw in some 40s slang for fun, so that will be in italics.

-In the little research I did (again, someone please correct me if I am wrong), in the 40s there were not many Hispanic or Latino people living in NYC yet. So for my OFC and her family, they would very much stand out. 

Warnings: a few swear words, some angst, sexual tension, topic of racial discrimination and inequality 

Words: 8k (the story kept growing, i’m so sorry)

<gif is from Pinterest>

She clutched the parcel to her chest, trying to avoid the muddy puddles on the sidewalk. Mr. Hendricks would be furious with her if she got any mud on the packaging of the parcel. He always said it reflected his reputation.  

 Weaving through those walking down the busy Brooklyn sidewalk, she could feel the few glares and inaudible comments following in her wake. She tried to ignore it, knowing was not the first nor last time others judged her for her different skin tone. Though she doubted she would ever get used to it. One of her older brothers would try and cheer her up saying the white folks were jealous since they burned when in the sun too long while Spaniards became more beautiful. Without fail, she would smack him but end up laughing along. 

 Peeking at the address scrawled in precise handwriting, she surveyed the street names around. A sinking feeling in her gut confirmed her fear- she had somehow gotten lost. 

“Mierda.” She hissed, turning around in a circle. Not just to try and relocate her whereabouts but on the off chance her mother happened to be behind her to whack her over the head for swearing. 

 Not wanting to be run over by a fellow pedestrian, she stepped off the sidewalk into an alley nearby while she tried to get her bearings. She brushed down the front of her workwear, dark blue, princess style dress with its Peter Pan collar, double pockets and pleated skirt. A glance at her tights showed a couple spots of mud she somehow managed to still get on her even though her kitten heels were still mostly clean. A miracle really. 

 It was only mid-afternoon but Mr. Hendricks hated when she returned late from delivering parcels. He was the best tailor in Brooklyn and practically thrived off that title. He employed her to help keep things organized, the shop looking nice and delivering parcels to their patrons. It was mindless work but that did not bother her. It was a job...and she was lucky to have one. Being from one of the few Hispanic families in the area was not a perk when trying to find work. She knew the only reason she even got this job was she willingly took half the pay he would have given to anyone else, she could sew well, and she was pretty. 

 A crash at the end of the alley drew her attention behind her. There was some hushed talking followed by another sound of something hitting the ground. Hard. 

 Logically, she knew she should walk away. She was already lost. Her mother frequently reminded her to not involve herself in other people's business, it would only get her in trouble. The problem was her curiosity was a near palpable thing, driving her forward, along with her independent streak the size of the Upper Bay. So when she heard what sounded like a smack and another crash, her feet started moving without a second thought. 

 She darted around a half brick wall to find herself at an "L" intersection. And at the end of both alleys, stood a tall man with a face like a bulldog and the sleeves of his shirt rolled up to his elbows, fists at his side. Below him lay a much smaller, blond man who was sprawled out on the dirty ground. The smaller man groaned, rubbing a hand on his jaw. He rolled onto his side, then slowly and painfully rose back onto his feet, his own fists in front of him in a poor imitation of a boxer. 

 "You think you somethin' special, huh?" The larger man jeered, a nasty smirk on his face. He leaned on his back foot, preparing to throw another punch. 

 The smaller man raised his fists but made no other move, prepared to take the hit and most likely go back down. 

 So, she decided to do something stupid. 

 "BILL!!" She cried out, her voice echoing off the brick walls of the alleys. 

 Both men froze, turning to look at her. 

 Tucking the parcel under her arm, she jogged over to the smaller man, uncaring now of the muddy puddles. "There you are, Bill. I've been so worried. You promised to show me where Mrs. Wilcox lives. I tried to find her myself but I got so lost." Ignoring the quizzical look from the blond man, she stood between the two men, meeting the eyes of the larger one. She twirled a strand of her long, black hair around her finger, nerves getting to her but she pressed on. "I'm so sorry for whatever trouble he has caused you. He won't bother you again. We have to go now; our boss will dock our wages if we aren't back soon."

 The man trailed his eyes over her as if looking for a lie tattooed on her skin or dress. Finding nothing of interest, he stared hard at his victim for a long moment. She found herself holding her breath, silently praying her ruse worked. 

 Finally, he rolled his shoulders and unclenched his fists, his thick jowls still tense. "Keep ‘im away from me or next time his ass will end up in the hospital."

 Slowly, she released her breath as she watched the bulldog of a man turn on his heel and stomp away, back down the alley and onto the main sidewalk. 

 "Are you hurt?" She asked, looking over the smaller man. As he dusted off his brown trousers and tan jacket, she was surprised to realize he stood about her height, and probably about her age, in the young twenties. If her guessing was any good. 

 He rubbed his jaw again and winced where an impressive bruise was already growing. "I've had worse." 

 She could not help but smile at his nonchalance. His bright blue eyes met her own honey brown. A timid smile echoed hers, his face so open and expressive. Something about the man she found endearing already. Maybe defending him was not such a stupid action.  

 "All that stuff you said, about lookin' for me and gettin' lost…"

 She huffed a laugh. "I am actually lost. I'm trying to find this address here." She showed him the scrap of paper with the address scribbled on it.

 It took only a glance before he handed the paper back with a smile. "You're not too far. Only three streets away….I... I can take you there if you like."

 "Oh, I'd hate to impose on you."

 "No, it's really fine. Seems you saved me from...well…" He shrugged, sticking his hands in the pockets of his tan jacket. 

 "And... you...don't mind, you know, being seen with me?"

 "No, why?" Eyebrows furrowed and lips pursed slightly, he stared at her like that was the strangest question. 

 It was in that moment she knew, whoever this scrawny man was- he was a good man. The difference in their ethnicity made no difference to him. He was a rarity in her experience with most New Yorkers. 

 Even though it was 1940 and this was supposed to be a land of equal opportunity. 

 It was not. 

 With a shrug and momentarily, awkward silence as they both thought about their own answers to his question, they fell into step with one another as they headed back out of the alley.

 "So, what's your name? Or is it actually Bill?" She spoke up once they hit the sidewalk. 

 "Do I look like a Bill?"

 She squinted her eyes then shook her head giggling. "No, you don't."

 "It's Steve…. Steve Rogers."

 "It's nice to meet you, Steve."

 He directed them down another street. Their shoulders brushed occasionally as they walked, due more to their need to maneuver around puddles and other pedestrians than any sense of intimacy. "You gonna tell me your name or do I have to make one up for you?"

 "Oh! Sorry. It's Elana Morales-Díaz. So, what caused the fight?"

 The tips of his ears and cheeks turned pink as he ducked his head. "He, um, we...we had a disagreement."

 "Obviously. I would hate to know you're friends and beat each other up for fun."

 "My best friend is a boxer. He's tryin’ to teach me some moves…. does that count as beating each other up?"

 She pretended to think about it. "I may let that one slide but it sounds like you might need some new friends."

 "Yeah," he chuckled and peeked over at her. "Know of any openings?"

 "I just might."

 They stood at an intersection waiting to cross the street when they heard a shout from further down the road. Neither paid much attention initially until the shout repeated itself. 

 "STEVE!"

 The blond looked down the road, a smile on his lips. He waved and tugged on Elana to move away from the curb. She followed along, surprised since he told her they needed to cross. 

 A man glided through the pedestrians easily, a few lingering looks thrown his way by some of the women. When he noticed her standing next to Steve, his eyes widened for a brief moment before a lazy smirk appeared on his face and his strut became more pronounced. With boxing gloves dangling over his shoulder, his white shirt and black trousers, he looked like he just walked out of a gym. Especially with the way his dark brown hair ruffled in the breeze, a few strands sticking up like he had run his hands through it a few times. 

 "I leave you for one afternoon and I come back to find you with the prettiest gal in all of New York." 

 Steve rolled his eyes. "You're always at the gym now."

 The man put Steve in a teasing headlock. Only after a flirtatious wink at her, he released the smaller man. "So, you gonna introduce me to this wolfess, Steve?"

 "Ah, right. Elana, this is my best friend, Bucky Barnes. Buck, this is Elana."

 "Nice to meet you." She said, a small smile at their interactions. It reminded her of her brothers.

 The man -Bucky- reached over and took her hand but instead of shaking it, pressed a kiss to her knuckles, maintaining eye contact the whole time. "Pleasure is mine."

 Oh, he was a charmer. The kind her mother warned her about. Then again, her father had the same devilish charisma and Elana liked to remind her mother of that. To which her mother would laugh and say that's why she warned her daughter of those men, she knew from experience. With just a wink and kiss, she would fall madly in love, leave her home and give him five babies before she even knew it. It was always after this statement often said loudly and with feigned annoyance that Elana's father would wrap his arms around his wife, lovingly kiss her temple and remind her how long he had to chase her before she even agreed to go on a date with him. 

 "So how do you guys know each other?" Bucky asked, those blue eyes bouncing between the two of them. 

 Steve coughed, rubbing the back of his neck. It was then Bucky finally seemed to notice the slowly darkening bruise on Steve's jaw. 

 "Steve!" He grabbed his friend's face and glanced over him, concern etched in his movements and expression. "What happened this time, punk?"

 "Nothin'...just a disagreement. I had 'im on the ropes."

 He dropped his hand, running it through his brunet hair. "You gotta stop pickin’ fights, one of these days…" The implications hung heavily in the air. 

 "Ah, Steve…" When he looked over at her, she nodded toward the parcel still in her arms.

 "Oh right! Sorry. Buck, I gotta take her to drop somethin' off."

 Bucky shrugged. "Lead the way, punk."

 "Jerk."

 The three of them quickly crossed the street. Steve, and soon Bucky when he understood what was going on, pointed out markers for her in case she got lost again. In a short time, they arrived at the house, one of the nicer ones in Brooklyn. The boys waited on the sidewalk as Elana walked up to the front door and handed the parcel over with the man's tailored suit. 

 "Where you off to now, doll?" Bucky asked when she approached them. 

 "Oh, I need to get back to the shop. Mr. Hendricks will most likely be upset with how late I am anyway."

 "The tailorin’ shop near Prospect Park?"

 "Yeah." She played with a strand of her hair, trying to hide her nerves.

 "What a coincidence. We were headed that way ourselves, right, Steve?"

 "What?" Steve looked at Bucky, head tilted in confusion. Bucky cuffed him in the back of the head. "Oh, yeah. Yeah. Um, gonna take a nice walk in the park."

 Elana could not help but giggle at the two. With Bucky looking skyward like he was silently praying for patience to deal with his best friend; meanwhile Steve rubbed the back of his head and glared at his best friend. Although she just met them and hardly knew them, she found herself enjoying their presence. Friends were not something she had in great supply...or any supply really. 

 Plus, if she was being honest with herself, she found her gaze drifting to the tall, charming brunet more times than she cared to admit. The butterflies in her stomach did not help the situation. She knew it was foolish. He was attractive and knew it. But when he turned those baby blues on her and winked, she could not help but be drawn to him, like a moth to the flame. 

 "How come we ain't seen you round before? I know I'd remember a dame as beautiful as you round Brooklyn." Bucky said on her left side while Steve walked on her right. Neither one crowded her space. Sometimes one would touch a hand to her back to direct her steps or hold her elbow when she jumped a puddle. It was sweet instead of condescending. 

 She shrugged. "I recently got the job at the tailor shop and I live in Queens."

 They both winced making her laugh. She would never understand this animosity the boroughs had with each other. 

 "Well that explains a lot." Steve muttered. 

 "Hey!" She nudged the blond with her shoulder as she muttered. "Me gusta Queens. Ustedes dos están celosos."

 "What language is that?" Steve asked, curiosity evident. 

 "Spanish."

 "Is that why you have an accent?"

 She nodded, unable to meet their gazes as she answered. "My family moved here from Spain when I was six." Although she had grown up here in New York City, gone to school just like the other kids, she still maintained a slight accent to her words, different from the stereotypical New Yorker's accent. 

 "Say somethin’ else." Bucky smiled down at her. 

 She laughed. "Like what?"

 "I don't know. Anythin’."

 "El cielo es azul. Me duelen los pies con estos tacones. Me he reído más con ustedes dos que en semanas".

 Bucky had almost a dazed look on his face. "That's beautiful."

 "You have no idea what I said."

 "Doesn't matter." The brunet stated as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. "Steve can talk in Irish." 

 "Buck…"

 "What?" 

 "I mean, a little." He rubbed the back of his neck. "My ma came from Ireland." 

 Bucky snorted. "You wrote a poem for a girl in the second grade in Irish and read it to her on the playground. I'd say that's more than a little."

 Steve's face was red and jaw dropped as he stared at his friend. "How...how...how do you know that?" He sputtered. "We weren't even friends yet."

 Bucky winked at Elana as he answered. "Gotta be friends with the right people."

 The three of them walked back, talking and laughing. Well it was mostly the boys talking and teasing one another but she enjoyed just listening to their banter. Occasionally they would direct a question to her or she would throw out a remark that had them laughing. 

 She guided them to the back alley of the street front shops. Mr. Hendricks disliked her walking through the front unless she had her work apron on and clean shoes. 

 "Well thank you for helping me and walking me back."

 "It's not a big deal." Steve said. 

 "We'll see you round, yeah? I'd hate to just meet a gorgeous dame like you then never see her again." Bucky threw a wink at her, adjusting the boxing gloves still over his shoulder. 

 She opened her mouth to tease them then stopped. She truly hoped this was not the last time she saw these two. In a spur of the moment decision, she stepped closer to say goodbye. She pressed her cheeks to Steve's first, giving the traditional cheek kiss. She did the same to Bucky, though she had to rise on her toes to reach his face, and she suspected he bent over slightly. 

 "Hasta luego, mis amigos."

 "What was that, doll?"

 She looked from Bucky's smirk to Steve's red face and back. "A traditional goodbye."

 "Mmm…I could get used to that." The boxer teased, nudging his friend who refused to meet her eyes now. 

 She smiled and started to open the back door when Bucky's hand grabbed her forearm, stalling her movements. 

 "Hey, wait." Those baby blue eyes met her honey brown ones. "It's Friday night.  We usually go to the Stork Club for drinks and dancin’. Come with us."

 "Oh, I don't know…"

 "Come on. It'll be great. If it helps, we'll pick you up from your house."

 She could not help the laugh that slipped out at the thought.  "You'd come to Queens... to get me?"

 "It might break my heart to leave my beloved Brooklyn but I'd do it for you, doll."

 "Honestly it'd be dangerous for you to come to my house." 

 "A little danger never hurt." He brushed some of her hair behind her ear, sending shivers down her spine. 

 He was trouble, complete trouble for her...and she knew it. But the longer he stared at her with those pleading eyes and hand now at the nape of her neck, she could feel her resolve crumbling. "I have three brothers and a protective father."

 "They can't be that bad… Come on, please? Steve, help me out!"

 Steve just laughed, raising his hands in surrender. 

 She bit the inside of her cheek thinking about it. Her brother Mateo owed her for when she covered for him when he almost got caught smoking cigarettes behind the apartment building. Tonight, her parents were supposed to visit her eldest brother and his new wife in the Bronx. 

 "Ok…" She whispered. 

 "Yeah?" A beaming grin spread over his face.

 "Ok...I'll meet you there though."

 "Yes!" Bucky bent over and kissed her cheek loudly. "You won't regret it! Nine o'clock!"

 "Nueve. Estaré allí."

 "I still don't know what you said, doll, but I love it."

 She laughed, pushing him away from her. "Go! Before I'm even more late."

 Before they were three steps away, she ducked inside the back of the shop. Hopefully she was able to slip in unnoticed. The shop should be closing soon so Mr. Hendricks would be in his little office room. 

 She leaned against the back door, hands pressed against her cheeks to will away the warmth in them. Thankfully with her brown skin, the blush would be harder to notice. As she stood there, the realization of what she just agreed to finally hit her. An icy fist landed in her gut, drowning the blush away. She had never been to a club before. She had no idea what to wear...or how to act. How was she even going to get there? 

 Underneath the fear though was a determination to go. Why couldn't she have fun for one night, like other young women she regularly saw and envied. Both of those Brooklyn boys seemed nice. Thinking about them brought the flush back to her skin, especially when she thought of the kiss on the cheek from Bucky. He was trouble and fun and charming and devilish and… and she wanted to spend more time with him. And Steve, the sweet, kind, funny guy that he was. She liked them both. But when thinking about those baby blue eyes, insufferable smirk and broad shoulders...her heartbeat sped up and butterflies erupted in her belly. 

 "Oh Dios, ¿qué voy a hacer?" She whispered to herself. 

 *****

 Just after nine o'clock, Elana climbed out of the taxi. She stared up at the sign that brightly screamed ‘Stork Club’. So many people milled about, either walking into the club or chatting, waiting for others in their group. A couple people already looked like they had been hitting the bottles for some time, if the rambunctious yelling and obnoxious laughter said anything. The atmosphere was loud and vibrant with an air of debauchery...and she had not even stepped foot in the door. 

 "Oh Dios, ¿por qué estoy aquí? Estúpido. Tan estúpido. Debería irme. Ni siquiera se darán cuenta." She murmured to herself, her hands wringing the strap on her clutch. Actually, it was not even hers. She "borrowed" it from her mother's closet and prayed that she could return it before her mother noticed.

 "Elana!" 

 At the call of her name, she turned around to see Bucky and Steve crossing the street, dodging a car that decided they were taking too long. 

 "You made it!" Bucky exclaimed, bubbling with excitement. He scanned her over, giving a low whistle. "Damn, doll, you look beautiful."

 "Gracias." She smoothed down her floral-patterned tea dress that reached mid-calf, her kitten heels still on from earlier. Her raven hair hung loosely down her back, unstyled in the typical curls that most women wore. There had been no time to try one of those hair styles and not bring attention to herself before she snuck out. Just to make her even more self-conscious, the cherry red lipstick she wore felt heavy on her lips. Something she only wore on rare occasions. "You fellas clean up nicely."

 Checking over them, they each wore nice suits. Though Steve's looked a size or two too large and the prominent bruise on his cheek ruined the look a bit. Bucky was practically sinful in his suit, showing off his broad shoulders and strong legs, his hair slicked back. Improper thoughts flooded her mind and a heat warmed her cheeks. She had a feeling she would need to go to confession tomorrow. That was tomorrow’s worry though, tonight was about fun.

 "Ready to have the time of your life?" Bucky asked, excitement practically bubbled under his skin. 

 "That's a high standard."

 "Guess I better not disappoint. C'mon!" He grabbed her hand, pulling her towards the crowded, open door. In her sudden fear, she reached back and snagged Steve's hand, dragging him along. She would never admit it but having both of them on either side of her made her feel better. 

 There were several different calls for Bucky, vying for his attention. He just waved or yelled something back but kept her hand in his, pulling them through. She noticed more than one disappointed female face when Bucky passed them. It churned something in her stomach which she tried to ignore. 

 When they finally entered the dance hall, she froze. It was nothing like she imagined and so much better. At the far end was a stage with a large band playing an upbeat song that made her bounce on her toes without realizing it. A large bar area was set up, packed with people already looking for something to wet their throats. Booths and tables lined the walls. Already the hardwood, dance floor looked packed with couples jiving. Mirrors and photographs hung on the walls making the place feel bigger even when it was so crowded. The air smelled of alcohol, sweat and a youthful zeal she had never experienced. 

 It was intoxicating and nerve-wracking. She could not wait to join in. 

 The next thing she noticed when she glanced at all the people...she was the only non-white person there. 

 "Let's get a table." Bucky tugged them along towards an open booth on the right side of the dance floor. 

 She slid in on one side while Steve scooted in on the other. Bucky stood at the end, grinning ear to ear as he seemed to quickly survey the place. 

 "Right." He tossed his suit jacket on the seat next to her then clapped his hands, the sound muffled by the volume from the band nearby. "What kinda drink would you like?"

 "Ah, vino?"

 He nodded and waltzed towards the bar, throwing an arm around the shoulder of one of the men standing there waiting. 

 She turned back to the blond. "You're not drinking?"

 "Nah, too many health issues to make it worth it." 

 She hummed and took note of Steve's fidgeting. "Is this your first time too?"

 He chuckled. "No. I just don't...well, this isn't where I'd prefer to be on a Friday night...but don't tell Bucky... though he probably knows."

 "What would you rather be doing?"

 "Drawin’ or paintin’, maybe playin’ cards but I'm terrible at them."

 "You're an artist?" The realization warmed her heart. This scrawny man with a heart too big for his body and kindness an invisible cloak around him. It made sense somehow. He could look past the ugly and see beauty and somehow capture it. 

 "I don't know if I'd say that...I just enjoy it. It's usually what I end up doin’ when I come here. Doodlin’ on a napkin while Buck dances with every girl he can."

 Her stomach dropped while hearing that, which was stupid. So stupid. She swallowed thickly, hoping Steve did not notice, before she spoke again to distract herself. "Well if you doodle something tonight, can I see it after?"

 "If you like."

 Bucky appeared a minute later with a foamy glass of beer and a glass of red wine. Carefully, he placed them both on the table. "Ready to cut a rug?" He asked, looking at her expectedly. 

 "Um, I don't...I've never danced like this before." She hesitantly admitted. Steve gave her a sympathetic smile like he understood. 

 "Don't matter. I bet you're a swell dancer." He held out his hand for her. When she did not immediately accept his hand, he wiggled his fingers. "C'mon, ain't that hard. I'll teach you."

 With a sigh, she took his hand, his smile beaming as he tugged her out of the booth. She could not help but smile back at his sheer enthusiasm. It was contagious. 

 He led her off to the side of the dance floor. Putting one hand on her lower back and taking the other in his hand, he began demonstrating the steps. Her eyes stayed glued to his feet while he moved, willing her brain to understand and not make a fool of her. 

 "You got this, doll. Told you, you're a natural. Just follow my movement, let me lead."

 So she did and before she knew it, they were flying around the dance floor. 

 Bucky was an amazing dancer and it showed in how he effortlessly led her. A couple times she stumbled or stepped on his toes but he would just grin and encourage her to keep going. The faces of those around them blurred. The music seemed to sink into her blood and with every beat of the drum or clap of the hands from the band, her heartbeat echoed it. It was intoxicating and she had not even had a sip of alcohol. Now she understood why people flocked to these dance halls. There was something freeing in them, losing yourself to the music and movements. For a short time, you could ignore the outside world and all its trials. Here, you could be free. 

 Eventually she begged a break, practically panting from the several songs they danced through. The brightness in her eyes and smile though showed how much fun she was having. Still holding hands, they weaved through the crowd back to their booth where Steve sat with a napkin in front of him, pencil in hand and eyes focused downward. She slid into the booth first, Bucky right behind her. 

 "Have fun?" Steve asked, eyes bouncing between the two before him. 

 "I can't breathe." She giggled out, hand pressed to her chest. Her lungs struggled to fill up properly but instead of installing fear into her, it only made her laugh. 

 Bucky took a long sip of his beer and slung his arm behind Elana, on the back of the booth. "Told you, you'd have fun. You're a great dancer."

 "Only cause I had a great teacher." Taking a sip of her wine, she focused on the quiet artist.  "Did you draw something, Steve?"  

 "Yeah, just a little sketch."

 "Can I see it?"

 He slid the napkin over to her, nerves obvious. Giving him a small, reassuring smile, she flipped the napkin over and felt her heart stop and jaw drop. The pencil sketch was of Bucky and her dancing. His mouth was next to her ear, whispering instructions or flirtatious comments, his hand on her lower back. Her gaze was on his chest but the brilliant smile on her lips gave her away. The sketch was so realistic, it was astounding. It completely captured Bucky's confidence and her nervousness but somehow the opposite emotions only added to the image, bringing a sense of balance and trust between the two dancing partners. 

 "Steve, esto es…. hermoso…. increíble." She breathed out, never taking her eyes off the napkin. When she finally looked up to see him blushing and fiddling with the pencil, she smiled. 

 Bucky had been leaning against her so he could see the sketch also. "That might be your best one yet, pal."

 "Thanks, guys. S'nothing."

 "May I keep it?" She softly asked, eyes tracing the delicate lines and shading.

 The embarrassed blond flapped a hand at her. "Course. It was for you if you wanted it anyway."

 Silently, she reached across and squeezed Steve's hand, unable to convey all the emotions she was feeling. "There's one thing you got wrong."

 "What's that?"

 "I'm not that pretty."

 Both Steve and Bucky chuckled.  

 "Elana," Bucky started, gazing down at her. "He drew you like-"

 "Bucky!" A silky voice interrupted. A young woman stood at the end of their booth. Her blonde hair in perfect curls, bright red lipstick matched the equally bright red dress she wore. Her eyes zeroed in on the handsome brunet at the table, ignoring the other two patrons like they were just wallpaper. "Wanna dance?" 

 The sun-kissed woman could feel Bucky's hesitation. Nudging him gently in the ribs, she nodded towards the interloper. "Go. Have fun. I still need to catch my breath."

 With a nod, he slipped out of the booth and followed the beautiful woman onto the dance floor. The two easily fell into step like they had done this a million times, each movement flawless and smiles on both of their faces. 

 She turned back to Steve, ignoring the churning in her gut. "What's your favorite thing to draw?"

 They talked for a few minutes about art classes he had taken and the few commissioned pieces he had done for local businesses. The passion he spoke with about art, hands flapping and eyes alight, it was impossible not to join in his enthusiasm. 

 The presence of someone standing at the end of the table drew their attention away from the quick sketch of a monkey Steve had drawn on another napkin. This young woman had a haughty expression on her otherwise pretty face, glaring down her nose at Elana. 

 "You shouldn't be here." She stated, venom lacing every word. Hands on her curvy hips, the gold stitching in her emerald dress catching the light from above. 

 "Ruby, we-"

 "No one is talkin’ to you, Steve." She barked then continued glaring at Elana. "I bet you're a real floozy, comin’ in here lookin’ like that. Well news flash, no one wants you or your kind here."

 Tears stung in Elana’s eyes, threatening to fall. She knew this would happen. It always happened. There was always someone to remind her she was not one of them, even if her own eyes could see it. She had hoped tonight would be different. That for once, she could fit in. 

 "I want her here. She's my date."

 The lady -Ruby- spun on her heel so quick, her dress flared out. "Bucky," she crooned, her voice sugary-sweet, so different than a moment ago. "You're lookin' like a real Fred Astaire out there tonight. Let's go-"

 Bucky did not even look her way as he slid back onto the bench, eyes focused on Elana. "You alright there, doll?"

 She nodded numbly, staring at the table. Twirling a strand of hair absent-mindedly around her finger, she tried to force the tears from falling. It was not even the worst insult she had heard hurled at her, but it still cut her to the quick. Every time. 

 "Why don't we head out, yeah? Steve there looks like he's gettin' a little warm and the music ain't so good tonight." Bucky said gently. 

 She nodded again, not trusting herself to speak. 

 "Bucky, stay…" Ruby tried one last time but he leveled a glare at her that made her take a step back. 

 "Take a powder, Ruby, I ain't interested."

 Bucky wrapped his hand around Elana's, entwining their fingers as he slid out of the booth with her right behind him. Without even a backwards glance, he led the three of them out of the dance hall. Elana kept her head down the whole time, unable to meet anyone's eyes for fear of what she would see. 

 The night air was blissfully cool after the heat of the dance hall. It kissed her skin as if trying to help calm her down. At this point, the street was not as busy, everyone mostly inside now. Only a few pedestrians and cars interrupted the quiet scene. 

 "Elana, I'm so sorry."

 "Debería irme. No debería haber venido. Soy tan estúpida." She muttered to herself, not even hearing Bucky's statement. It was a foolish idea to come out. For so long she had tried to fit in, especially as a child. Her mother always told her to be herself and embrace her difference. That was easier said than done. Tonight felt like a taste of it when she was on the dance floor. What things could have been like if everyone was accepted. If where she was from did not matter. She had been so happy dancing with Bucky, this handsome devil who treated her like she was special, holding her hand in front of everyone. Sure, Steve said he danced with a lot of girls but for tonight, she was someone while on his arm. She was someone special. 

 And oh, did she love the feeling of his hand wrapped around hers. Him holding her close as they danced, his warm breath hitting her neck just right. He was trouble, through and through. Her mother would call him a Casanova and tell her to run the other way. Yet she did not want to. He drew something out of her. An almost recklessness. A desire for more. More in life. To experience life with a passion. Both this new feeling and Bucky’s presence were addicting...and she found herself unable to turn away. At least not for tonight. She wanted to revel in it tonight. 

 It was not until a hand cupped her cheek and tilted her head up to meet a pair of worried baby blue eyes that she was jolted from her internal spiral. 

 "Hey, hey. I have no idea what you're sayin' but it don't sound good. Why don't we walk for a bit, mmm? The night's still young."

 Wordlessly, she followed. It was then she noticed Bucky was still holding her hand, palms flat against one another's. That realization drew a small smile on her lips. On her other side walked Steve, hands in his pockets but a genuine smile on his face when he caught her eye. Even after all this, these two Brooklyn boys wanted to be with her. With that in mind, she shoved her despair and pain away. Let tomorrow bring what worries that came with it. Tonight she wanted to be reckless without fear of the consequences. Tonight was supposed to be fun.  

 "Can't believe Ruby would say that. Always thought she was a nice dame." The brunet mused, slipping his suit jacket back on before taking Elana's hand once again.

 "She only showed what she wanted you to see, Buck."

 "Dance with a girl a couple times and she thinks you owe her or somethin'."

 The blond quirked an eyebrow at his friend.  "Was it only dancin'?"

 "What you gettin' at, Rogers?"

 "You ditched some other girl for her once before."

 His head swiveled to stare at the smaller man in shock. "I did?"

 Elana spoke up. "Sounds like you have quite the selection of dance partners to choose from."

 Steve snorted. "Guy has been doll-dizzy since he was twelve."

 "What can I say? I appreciate fine art." Bucky said with a self-satisfied grin.

 "Don't usually lock lips with paintings or statues…"

 "You know what, Rogers!"

 Elana laughed as Bucky let go of her hand to race around her and put Steve in a headlock. The two pretended to box for a couple minutes, grins on both their faces. When finished, the champion boxer slid up to her, a rakish smile teasing his lips as he claimed her hand back.

 "Well if those gals are fine art, you sweetheart, are a masterpiece." He twirled her around once, making her dress flare out around her legs. "Have I told you yet how beautiful you look tonight?"

 "Yes, Bucky."

 "Good, I'd hate for you to forget." He winked and the trio started walking again. 

 "Oh, here." Steve suddenly said, fishing something out of his pocket. He held out his hand almost shyly.  

 She took the offered item to see it was the napkin with the sketch on it. "Oh, Steve. Muchas gracias." She leaned over and pressed a kiss to his cheek, leaving a red stain behind. "Oops."

 "Here." Bucky tossed over a handkerchief to Steve. 

 She glanced at the napkin one more time before reverently placing it in her clutch. She already knew where she was going to put this in her room so she would always remember this night.

 "Oh drat." Steve said after glancing at his watch. "It's almost eleven. I have class early tomorrow."

 "Go on, punk. I'll look after her."

 Elana hugged Steve and was thrilled when he squeezed her back just as tightly. "I'm so happy to have met you."

 "This isn't goodbye, right?"

 "I hope not. You have more artwork to show me."

 He blushed yet nodded before giving Bucky a quick hug. 

 "Night, Steve."

 "Night, jerk."

 Together, they watched Steve walk down the sidewalk, wave back at them then disappear down the next street. 

 "Wanna keep walkin'?"

 She nodded. She knew she should go home. It was getting late and she still had to get back to Queens. Yet walking side by side with this man whom she had only met several hours ago, she found the idea abhorrent. Glancing up at the night sky, only a couple of the stars were visible through the smoke, clouds and street lamps. They were lovely though, a reminder that there were greater things out there, one just had to look for them. At least, that is what her father always said. 

 "Hey," Bucky's voice pulled her attention back, "I never got to say it earlier but thanks...for havin’ Steve's back earlier today. Punk doesn't know when to quit."

 "I'm glad he got in that fight...is that odd? If he didn't, I wouldn’t have met either one of you."

 "Alright, this ONE time I'm glad he got in a fight. Though, we probably would have ran into each other eventually."

 They walked in comfortable silence for a couple minutes. Two cars passed them separately and only a handful of people walked their way. Otherwise it almost felt like they were alone. It was peaceful, still holding hands and wandering the streets of Brooklyn.  

 "Y'know, I was kinda hopin' we'd get at least one slow song at the dance hall."

 "Me too." She confessed. 

 "Well, we should!" An idea sparked in his eyes. "Wait here." He moved over to one of the parked cars near them. He tried to open it but it was locked so he moved to the next one. This one opened without hesitation and he slid in. The whole time Elana switched between watching Bucky and scanning the streets for someone to yell at them. What was he thinking? Suddenly music came on, drifting from the radio through the open passenger door. 

 Bucky stood there, leaning against the car with the biggest grin on his smug face. "Who needs a dance hall?"

 She laughed, understanding what he had done. "We’re going to get in trouble."

 "No, we ain't. C'mon."

 "Oh, Dios mío, yes we are!" 

 "Dance with me." He cooed, standing before her looking like an Adonis. 

 With that lazy smirk and enthralling blue eyes staring down at her, refusal was not an option. The words died on her tongue as she stared up at him. The music was slow, a singer crooning about his love. The moment felt like something from a fairytale story her mother would tell her as a little girl. She knew she should go home. Stop this heat that seared through her when she found herself caught in his eyes. Stop the butterflies in her stomach when around him. Stop the way she melted under his touch, his hands always so gentle. 

 But she wanted this. Right now. To pretend this was her reality. To dance with her prince under the stars. That love did not care about the differences in their skin tones. For when the sun rose and this dream faded, reality would seep back in. Plus, he was a charmer. Doll-dizzy. She would not keep his attention past this night. 

 For now though, she could pretend. Enjoy the night in a way she never had before. 

 He placed her hands behind his neck and his on her hips. Standing there under the streetlight and distant starlight, they danced, swaying back and forth. Her head landed on his chest, feeling his heartbeat beneath it. So steady and soothing. The world faded away around them, the only things that mattered was their dancing and the music. It wrapped around them like a warm, thick blanket. Enveloping them in a sense of security and vitality. One of his hands slowly traced her spine leaving a trail of fire behind. His cheek pressed against the top of her head. She felt safe...and wanted. A heady feeling that she could sense herself beginning to crave even more. Her hand tangled in the hair, her fingers lightly scraping the back of his neck. 

 "Say something in Spanish." He whispered, his lips against her scalp. 

 "Gracias por esto ... todo esto. Ha sido la mejor noche de mi vida".

 She looked back up at him, hoping to convey without words what she said. As she lifted her head up, their eyes locked. Tension filled the empty space around them, pulling them closer. For a split second, his eyes drifted to her lips and back up. Her heartbeat began racing anew. Slowly, as if waiting for her to turn away, his head tilted towards hers, his hands gripping her just a little tighter. His breath fanned across her face, warming her inside and out. She swore her heart was going to beat out of her chest. His nose brushed hers, an almost timid action that drew a smile from her. He chuckled silently then somehow pulled her even closer. She closed her eyes, a gasp escaping her when she felt the faintest touch of his lips on the corner of her mouth. 

 "Hey! Hey, you kids! What ya doin’ with my car?!" 

 All the tension evaporated like rain drops under the scorching sun. 

 "Shit...c'mon!" He grabbed her hand and started running away. Holding on tight, she ran next to him, as well as she could while wearing heels. The yells of the car's owner soon a distant sound behind them. 

 Finally, they stopped two streets later. He let go of her hand, running his hands through his hair and pacing. She leaned against the brick wall, hand over her mouth, giggles spilling forth between gasps of air. Never in her life had she done anything like this. She closed her eyes as the giggles turned into full-body laughter. One hand covered her mouth and the other wrapped around her own waist to try and contain the sound. This night was nothing like she expected but it only seemed to get better and better. This newfound revelry of youthful zeal, this silly recklessness...she wanted more and more of it. 

 When the laughter dissolved into small chuckles, she wiped her eyes as she opened them, hoping her make-up had not smudged too much. Not that she particularly cared in the moment.

 What she saw standing before her killed the laughter on her tongue. 

 Bucky stood just at arm's length, staring at her like she was the stars in the heavens. 

 In a single step, he crowded her against the brick wall. "Elana…" he growled, voice low, and it might have been the most exhilarating sound she had ever heard. One of his hands cupped the back of her head, as he lowered his lips to hers. The kiss was gentle, their lips just pressed together. A soft pressure that made her melt into his arms. 

 He leaned back to press his forehead against hers. His breath just as shaky as hers, both still breathing hard from their run. 

 "That was my first kiss." She blurted out, immediately regretting the words once they escaped. 

 He leaned back to look her in the eye. "Really?"

 She shrugged nervously. "Not many fellas lining up to kiss a girl like me."

 "Their loss, doll face." He smirked, running a thumb over her bottom lip. "May I have the honor of your second kiss ever?"

 She giggled and nodded. 

 This time when their lips touched, it felt like more. The first was like licking the spoon used after mixing cookie dough. A taste of what was to come. The second kiss was eating warm cookies right out of the oven and practically ascending to heaven. 

 His lips slanted over hers perfectly, as if they were formed just for her. Their mouths moved in tandem, picking up speed. No longer were the kisses sweet and gentle. His tongue traced her bottom lip and she willingly opened her mouth to receive it like a present. These kisses were all-consuming and fiery. It was as if his touch seared into her soul, leaving an imprint there for all eternity. 

 She knew right away when she met Bucky Barnes, he was trouble. He was the kind of man her mother warned her about. The kind to sweep her off her feet and make her forget the world around her. He was kind, charming and so full of life. Yet she knew even as she was wrapped in his arms, lips pressed against his, that there was one truth that would haunt her. Even if she ignored it for now. That truth would never leave. So she overlooked it, sinking deeper and deeper into his kisses and embrace. Drowning herself in him. With her back pressed against the wall, her hands tangled in his hair and mouths devouring one another, she had never felt more alive. 

 Tonight, she would choose the fire he poured into her. Tonight, she wanted to enjoy life without fear. Tonight, she wanted to pretend that this night would never end. To thrive in this feeling of passion and life, that nothing could go wrong. 

 For the truth was one day, he was bound to break her heart.

[snarkwrites]

-- about my writing --

I’m currently taking requests / asks for headcanons [ can be either NSFW or just in general or a specific idea ] or fluff/filth Alphabet letters. These are the only requests I plan on taking. If you send me prompts / one shot ideas.. I won’t do them, sorry.

To see what the questions are for the fluff / filth alphabet, see [this post]

[ To my thots anon whomst I love with every cell in my body... Your thots are all going to fall under NSFW headcanons so please.. By all means.. Feel free to send me all the thots you want because I really really really really really enjoy writing them!!! Also, you can find the thots you’ve sent me on my nsfw masterlist, they’re not going anywhere. They were so good I had to add them to a masterlist somehow, I couldn’t resist. At everyone else out there, the same applies to you guys.]

So.. Here’s the thing.. I’ve decided that I’m going to be taking 3 kinds of requests. Those are as follows: Headcanons { filthy, fluffy or themed specifically at your choosing }, fluffy alphabet and filthy alphabet letters. These are the only kinds of request I answer so don’t send me prompts / one shot requests or ideas unless I specifically say otherwise.

Bearing the above in mind, I have some guidelines.

I’m only accepting headcanons (nsfw / fluff / specific theme &/or reader), fluffy or filthy alphabet letters. If you send me one shot ideas or prompts, I’m going to delete them because I don’t do one-shots.

One character per ask. I don’t care how many asks you send. But I ask that you only send one character per ask because that makes things a lot more simple for me.

You can send up to 4 letters in each ask if you’re asking for either version of the alphabet. Be sure to let me know whether you want filth or fluff or a mix of both. IE, you could send me something like this; character name - a, b {filth} & j v {fluff}. I’m not saying your ask has to look exactly like this but it does need to clearly state which version you’re asking for. The format I just did above was just the easiest way that came to mind for me.

The more precise you are with the headcanon requests you send, the better I can tailor them to you. If you just want an overall NSFW headcanon or overall fluff, that’s totally fine. But if you want a specific scenario ( friends to lovers, date night, weddings, the sky is the limit here) you need to tell me that. The same goes for if you want a specific reader (POC, plus size, sick, shy, virgin, imprint, etc) then I need to know that. It’s like I said.. The more specifics you give me, that’s more I have to work from.

As far as headcanons go, the things I won’t write are rape, incest / huge age gaps between reader / character. I’ll only write abuse if someone is getting their just desserts at the hands of character on readers behalf. Any asks containing rape / incest / huge age gaps are going to be deleted.

All asks must come to my inbox. I don’t take requests through DM or in comments on a post. If it helps, my anon is on, so you can request to your hearts content.

If the ask box is closed, this means I’m currently not taking headcanon or fluff/filth alphabet requests. This will also be noted on my blog bio and possibly a post stating why/for how long. Anything sent in after the ask box is closed will either be gotten to the next go around or it’ll be deleted, depending on the situation.

First of all... My content is meant strictly for adults. I do write some things that people underage can safely  read, but that is not always the case. I realize that I can’t stop minors from reading my work, but I can tell you outright that I’d rather you skip over it if you’re underage and it clearly states that it’s not written for anyone underage. Again.. I can’t do anything to stop minors from reading my NSFW content beyond just choosing never to post writing on the internet. And I don’t plan on stopping, so.. yeah.

I put warnings on everything. Reading those will definitely save you time and upset. If you keep reading something I’ve written and it upsets you in any way, I’m sorry but I can’t help. I warned you. You chose to take the risk -and most likely, you chose to skip the warning I gave before the post even started... It’s strictly on you now. It’s out of my hands. Any complaints or things of that nature are gonna be laughed at and deleted out of my inbox because I’m not here to argue or censor myself. I’m not your parents, just a peer. If you as a minor choose to look at me, an adult adjacent person, as an authority figure of any sort... First of all, why? Ya’ll.. no.. please don’t. I’m a hot mess, okay? To look at me like any trust worthy authority figure is... A huge error on your own part. Secondly, please don’t. I’m here to enjoy my favorite fandoms / post content for them. I’m not here to please people / censor myself and my content to make everyone else happy... Let me repeat. I put warnings on everything I post. If you keep reading and you read something you’re not supposed to this is now solely your own problem. Sorry, I guess?

I’ve seen other adults saying that they block minors on here. While I’m not gonna do that.. I will not tag minors in my NSFW content knowingly. If I find out you’re a minor and I’m posting something NSFW for a fandom you’ve asked to be tagged in, I will not be tagging you. Sorry. As much as I say I’m not here to parent you and I’m just your peer and you need to think of me like that instead, I’m also not willing to risk anything, either. I’m truly sorry in advance.

While I’m talking about tagging people / my taglist...If you want me to tag you in my writing, you need to be on my taglist. The taglist can be found [ here ] or you can dm / send an ask telling me you want to be added and I will be more than happy to do so. Don’t be afraid to ask me. I don’t mind at all! 

Every now and then, I’ll tag my friends in things I write. If I tag you in something and you don’t want me to, let me know. I won’t do it anymore. I’m not here to overwhelm or annoy anyone and I don’t want to come off as pushy, either. SO.. if you’re getting tagged or whatever and you want me to stop tagging you, all you have to do is let me know.

If you’re not on my tag list (or I don’t know you well enough to know whether you’d potentially want to read something) I will not be tagging you. If you’re a minor and I know for sure/think  you are and it’s smut, I will definitely not be tagging you.

Content I’m not willing to write or  you probably won’t find here: Incest and Rape. Those are my hard no’s. Just the thought of writing something like that makes me feel gross. I’m also not going to be writing huge age gaps in romantic stories either. (the closest I’ll come is like.. 18/19 and up to 24...) I mean absolutely no offense against people who can and do write things like this, I just can’t? 

American Horror Story; tate langdon, ben harmon, kit walker, kyle, dandy mott, jimmy darling, james patrick march, michael langdon, xavier plympton and night stalker.

Arrowverse; oliver queen, john diggle, slade wilson/deathstsroke, barry allen, cisco ramon, ray palmer, mick rory.

Bands / Celebrities; ask before sending because I haven’t done many of these and I’m still adjusting… Off the top of my head I’ve written for / feel comfortable with Nick Groff (ghost adventures), Jon Bernthal.. There are lots of others but alas, I’d stretch this out so badly if I added too many more names.

Boondock Saints movie; Connor Macmanus Murphy Macmanus & Rocco.

Breakfast Club movie; John Bender.

Castle Rock tv series; Dennis Zalewski, The Kid.

Criminal Minds; Derek Morgan, Spencer Reid, Hotch, Tobias Hankel & Adam/Amanda.

Crybaby Movie; wade walker.

CSI tv series; Greg Sanders, Nick Stokes, Warrick Brown, Gil Grissom, Tim Speedle, Ryan Wolfe, Eric Delko, Danny Messer, Don Flack, Mack Taylor.

Dazed & Confused movie; Randal Pink Floyd, Mike Newhouse, Ron Slater, Fred O’Bannion and Kevin Pickford.

DC Cinematic; Digger Harkness.

Detroit Rock City movie; Tripp, Lex, Hawk and Jam.

Fast & The Furious series; Dom Toretto, Han.

Four Brothers movie; Angel, Jack or Bobby Mercer

Friday Night Lights tv series; Tim Riggins, ,Matt Saracen, Landry Clarke, Bobby Riggins, Vince.

General Hospital tv series; Sonny Corinthos, Jason Morgan, Johnny Zacarra, Dante Falconeri, several other of the guys on here…

Ghostbusters 80′s version movie; Ray Stantz, Egon Spengler , Peter Venkman, Winston Zeddemore.

Gotham tv series; Jerome Valeska, Jim Gordon, Joker, Riddler.

Harry Potter movies; Sirius Black, Severus Snape, Fred Weasley, George Weasley, Neville Longbottom.

Horror movies various; Billy Loomis/Scream, Charlie Walker/Scre4m, Wade/ House of Wax, Tom Hanninger/My Bloody Valentine + others. Trust me, there are... So many others. I just didn’t have the brain power to think of them all at the moment.

Law & Order tv series; Barba, Carisi, Stabler.

Lucifer tv series; Lucifer Morningstar.

Luke Cage; Luke Cage, Shades Alvarez.

Marvel Cinematic; Bruce Banner/hulk, Captain america/steve rogers, bucky barnes/winter soldier, eric killmonger, hawkeye/clintbarton, thor, loki, pietro maximoff, venom/eddie brock, starlord/peter quill, ironman/tony stark, wolverine.. I’m a marvel ho.

Mayans MC tv series; Angel Reyes and Ez Reyes.

NCIS tv series; Anthony Dinozzo, Timothy McGee, Marty Deeks, Greg Callen.

On My Block tv series; Spooky Diaz.

Punisher tv series; Billy Russo, Frank Castle.

Riverdale tv series; Jughead Jones, FP Jones, Reggie Mantle, Sweetpea, Archie Andrews.

Shameless tv series; Lip Gallagher.

Sons of Anarchy tv series; Jax Teller, Chibs Telford, Clay Morrow, Juice Ortiz, Opie Winston.

Stranger Things tv series; Jonathan Byers, Billy Hargrove, Steve Harrington, Jim Hopper.

Star Wars movie series; Han Solo, Kylo Ren, Ben Solo, Poe Dameron, Finn.

Supernatural tv series; Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester, Crowley, Benny Lafitte, Kevin Tran.

Teen Wolf tv series; Stiles Stilinski, Scott McCall, Derek Hale.

The Crow movie series; Eric Draven and Jimmy Quervo/Wicked Prayer.

The Lost Boys movie series; Edgar Frog, Allen Frog, David, Michael Emmerson, Sam Emmerson.

The Outsiders book/movie; Two Bit Matthews, Dally Winston, Darry Curtis, Soda Pop Curtis, Johnny Cade, Steve Randle.

The Walking Dead tv series; Daryl Dixon, Shane walsh, Rick Grimes, Negan, Glenn Rhee.

The Vampire Diaries tv series; Klaus Mikaelson, Kai Parker, Kol Mikaelson, Jeremy Gilbert, Damon Salvatore.

Twelve Rounds 3 movie; Detective John Shaw.

Twilight movies/books; Jasper Hale, Emmett Cullen, Jacob Black, Paul Lahote, Embry Call.

I’m gonna be honest here. I post on my own time, at my own pace. Some days I post constantly, sometimes it’s days or even weeks, and occasionally, a month before I post anything. So.. Now ya know.

If I’m not on and posting, odds are I’m busy, taking a break or whatever. But I’ll come back! I always do. 

Basically, what I’m saying here is I have no set posting schedule. At all. I post what I want when I’m in the mood to do so. Just something to keep in mind when you’re asking for headcanons / nsfw alphabet letters with characters.

[aquaticalay]

Siren .Chapter Four.

Bucky Barnes x Reader

Summary: Bucky Barnes fancies you, a singer who performs at a local bar every Monday and Friday night. After a few months of attending your gigs, Bucky finally got the chance to talk to you. One problem: you are New York's sonic screaming vigilante. And the avengers have been trying to figure out who you are for months. (Post-Endgame)

Warning/s for this chapter : cursing, a teeny tiny bit of violence

Warning/s for the series: cursing, violence, eventual smut (which you can skip)

Word count: 1500+ 

Disclaimer: I do not own the Marvel characters.

Note: I'm a day late, I know :') and I'm sorry. I didn't have any connection last night, but here ya goooo

I will post a new chapter every two days. Let me know if you'd like to be on the taglist!

You didn't remember a time where you would stay up late texting. It seemed a little too cliche, like what a teenager would do in some cheesy romantic comedy on netflix. You didn't think you would ever do it, but here you are, almost midnight, texting with a man who was supposedly trying to arrest you. You talked and talked for hours, and neither of you were willing to stop the conversation. At first you didn't have the heart to, but you were just enjoying the time.

You found yourself chuckling at the fact that one of the world's mightiest heroes was such a modern hopeless romantic. You didn't even expect him to be able to text. He was a century year old man, after all.

'Anyway, when's your next gig?'

You read a bubble of text pop up.

'The day after tomorrow,' you typed mindlessly, and sent it before you could process what you did.

Your heart dropped. Shit, you thought to yourself. Shit! He wasn't supposed to know! 

A million scenarios ran through your mind. What if you had to put on the suit, what if you had to be the Siren while he was in close proximity. What if you have a mission tomorrow night? And if your friends saw who came, the would freak. If they saw him, and if they knew you were the one who told him where you'd be, they would kill you. Well, maybe not literally, but you'd never hear the end of it. Besides, you were putting your mission, and your identity as a vigilante at risk.

Before you could unsend it, he already saw it.

'May I know where?' He texted.

'No,' you replied bluntly. It wasn't intentional, just instinctual.

Great, now you just sound like an asshole. Paranoia hit again. What if, by not telling him where your gig is, he becomes more suspicious of your identity?

'You're a spy right? Why don't you take a guess?' You texted back quickly, deciding that teasing was the most natural of playing it off like it was no big deal. Besides, wasn't playing 'hard-to-get' fairly common nowadays?

"Oh, so that's how it is?' Bucky texted back playfully.

Soon after, you ended the conversation, deciding you needed sleep. You've been a little out of focus lately. You needed rest, and perhaps tomorrow you could be more level-headed to think, unlike the whirlwind your mind has been going through today.

-

The next day, you woke up at eight. That was considered a good night's sleep, since you usually wake up at the break of dawn. You would've woken up even later if it wasn't for Lando, who called you to let you know of a mission.

"I found the buyer, the person who bought the vox formula," he told you, "He'll be out of his apartment in Brooklyn tonight. You can break in and try to find the formula."

Breaking and entering, huh? How fun. 

You agreed, and set up a meeting in your Brooklyn safehouse.

At dusk, Lando was briefing you on the target apartment blueprint, while Luna and Vince prepared you arsenal of knives. 

Knives might seem shallow for a couple of genius weapon engineers like Luna and Vince, but you knew that these knives were made for precision and to perfection. They've calculated the curvature of the blade, aerodynamics, as well as the friction. Every inch of those knives were a product of mathematical precision and excellence.

After Lando was done briefing you, you took the knives and sheathed them. There were three in total, two on the sides of your thighs were throwing knives, while the one strapped on your belt was a dagger, used for combat.

You put on your hood and jump out the window and to the roof of the five-story apartment building.

The target's apartment wasn't far away, actually, just a block away. You were lucky the only light source was a small crescent moon, or else it would've cast an alarming shadow.

You opened the standard window lock by sliding your dagger through the gap at the bottom. Easily, you slid inside. There was a small bedside lamp in his otherwise dark bedroom. You decided not to turn any more lights as it might be noticeable from the outside. 

It was a small one bedroom apartment.

Wandering about in the space, you didn't find much personal belongings that might give away the identity of the person living there. There were no wallets or documents, not even photos in frames. The kitchen didn't have any knives or forks, just a few spoons. The pans and the stove looks brand new and unused. The TV wasn't even plugged in. The only thing that seemed functional was a computer that was built into a desk, situated in the very far corner of the room.

Focus. You're here for the formula, not for anything else.

You didn't see anything out in the open, so you checked under furniture. You checked for creaks on the floor board or inconsistencies in the drywall, in case this person had a secret concealment. You still found nothing.

"I can't find anything," you told Lando through the earpiece. 

"Have you checked the floor? Walls?" You heard him. "Yeah, nothing," you replied with absolute certainty.

"Well, what do you see?" 

"Literally, nothing," you emphasize, sighing in frustration, "there's not a lot of interesting things. All I see that might have any information at all is a computer."

"A computer?" Lando asked, an idea in his head, "Do you still have the microchip in your pocket, from last week's mission?" He asked.

"No, I don't think—" you started to reply, checking your back pocket, but stopped talking when you felt something there. You fished it out, and sure enough, the microchip was there. "Got it," you reported to him.

"Great," Lando sighed in relief, "Insert it in the computer, and I'll walk you through it."

You complied to his words, taking as much information as you can from the device.

-

"Hey, Buck," Sam urgently called, storming into the gym. Bucky was in the middle of a work out. He stopped the treadmill and gave Sam an inquisitive look. 

"I just got a report," Sam told him, "Some lady in Brooklyn saw a hooded person break into the apartment next to hers."

Bucky's eyes widened, "Is it the siren?"

"Looks like it," Sam confirmed.

"Send me the coordinates now," Bucky demanded, running out of the room to change into his suit.

-

You had successfully transferred all the data into the microchip. You didn't waste any time getting out. 

You returned to the safe house, giving Lando the microchip to decipher. You soon changed, and told your friends you were going home. You stuffed your suit inside a large backpack, and started walking to the nearest subway station.

-

When Bucky got to the exact address, he was certain that the Siren had already left. There was almost no traces of breaking and entering, except for the open window, and the broken lock on it. 

"Shit," he cursed. He was too late. Had he been here earlier, he would've caught the person who had been able to break a super soldier body with a scream. 

He decided to scout around the block. He could look for more clues. Besides, if the siren had been here, they can't have gone too far.

As he was walking around the block, he heard footsteps coming from around the corner. It didn't sound like the person running, but it sounded fast— like the person was in a rush. In panic, maybe.

He took a dagger out, preparing to strike. He had his back up against the wall.

As the footsteps approached, he thrusted the dagger away from his hand, and on to the person approaching. He did not strike to kill, but instead to assert a warning. The dagger was placed just inches in front of the person's throat. And it was… 

"(Y/n)?" He asked, making sure if he was seeing right. 

"Hi?" You managed to say, nervously smiling.

"What are you doing in Brooklyn?" He asked, pulling the dagger away.

You had one second to think of a lie.

"I… just got back from a record store a few blocks down," you decided to say. You looked up and down, and it was clear that he was wearing his combat gear.

What was he…

Then, the realization hit you like a truck.

Someone must've seen you enter the apartment. Someone must've called the Avengers.

"You look like you're busy catching bad guys here," you slightly teased him, trying to ease the growing tension.

He scratched the back of his neck, "Uh, yeah."

What are you doing? Bucky thought to himself, stop getting distracted! 

"Well, I better not interfere," you faked a chuckle, "and I better get home. It's late. See you around?"

"Yeah, of course," Bucky breathed out, and you continued on your journey. You didn't look back.

As Bucky watched you walking further down the street, he could've sworn he saw a knife sheath hanging around your hips.

He shook his head off the thought. He must be imagining things.

Stop getting distracted, dammit! He scolded himself.

-

@thejourneyneverendsx @ispepeagain @magykal-777 @sfxsucker @moli1497 @justanothergirlwithdemons @ciochesono @allonszassbutt @hennessy0274-blog @chubby-dumplin @talk-geek-to-me @sebastian-i-stan @iwishthatiwasbuckysgirl @thelureabove @womanontheedgeofnothing @snugglemedaddy @perrythefrickinplatypus @missursulacalmet @angryknightstatesmantrash @tintinnabulary

[gotlostonmywayhome]

“I’m so delighted I ran into you both,” Peggy begins as if they are old friends already. “It has to be fate. I have a massive problem and I think you just might be my savior.”

“M-me?” Bucky squeaks.

“What’s going on Peg?” Steve asks, genuinely concerned for her.

“My caterer canceled on me yesterday. Something about double booking,” she says exasperated. “I’m throwing a small event, no more than 75 of Shield’s most loyal patrons. I can get a couple of people to be servers, but I need food for them to serve. I’m looking for a theme of simple, yet decadent. A couple of canapes and desserts with champagne.”

Oooooooookay…

Peggy stops walking and places herself in front of Bucky. Her face wide and beseeching as she holds her hands in front of her, palms touching as if she is about to start praying. “It’s not for another two weeks, Thursday after next to be precise. Please tell me I’m not asking for the impossible and you can help me?”

Chapter 12 is up and we meet Peggy Carter!

[mozart-the-meerkitten]

Heeeyy, okay, so I finally saw Endgame tonight. I’ve known what happens in it for months, but this was the first time I actually saw it. Yeah, stuff happened, moving on.

So, let’s get right down to the biggest problem in Endgame, and the one thing keeping it from being one of the single most epic movies of our time; the time travel shenanigans.

This post is gonna get long, so read more below the cut.

To illustrate precisely how Endgame went wrong with time travel, I am going to compare it to the time travel in DC’s Legends of Tomorrow TV show. Specifically the final two episodes of season 2, “Doomworld” and “Aruba”. Yeah, I’m comparing Marvel and DC, there’s a good reason, I promise.

Okay, so Endgame’s plotline is pretty well known, but in case you don’t know it, here’s a brief summary; Thanos kills half of the population of the universe, the Avengers (what’s left of them) freak and kill Thanos, who has unfortunately already destroyed the Infinity Stones, the only things that could fix the universe. 5 years pass, and Scott Lang (Antman), previously presumed dead, comes out of the Quantum Realm and tells everyone that time travel is possible and that they can use it to reverse what happened. They go back in time to get the Infinity Stones before Thanos, they do, and, long story short, one epic battle later they kill Thanos and his army. They put the stones back, and almost everyone lives happily ever after.

Now, on to the plotlines of Legends’ “Doomworld” and “Aruba”. Before I go any further, let me just say that season 2 of Legends came out in 2016, several years before Endgame OR Infinity War. Alright, so there’s this thing called the Spear of Destiny that can change reality. The bad guys, called “The Legion of Doom” manage to get it from the Legends and use it to create their perfect reality, which turns out to be a Doomworld for everyone else. The Legends exist in this world, but at first don’t remember who they are. I’m not gonna get into how they get their memories back, but most of them do, and they decide that they have to go to the past to steal the Spear of Destiny from themselves to stop the Legion from getting it. They manage to do this, but they all die, except their leader Sarah, who uses the Spear to 1. Revive her friends, 2. Get rid of the most annoying member of the Legion (Eobard Thawne, long story, watch The Flash) and 3. She uses the Spear to remove the power of the Spear, making it useless. Everyone lives, they return the Legion to their proper places in time (did I mention they’re all time travelers?) and decide to go on vacation in Aruba. Unfortunately, they do not land in Aruba, they land in Los Angeles in 2017, which is covered in dinosaurs and features Big Ben and a number of other buildings not from LA in the background. The season ends with Sarah saying, “Guys, I think we broke time.”

Okaaaaay, still with me? Good.

So, to give you my thesis statement; Endgame’s time travel was wrong because there are no consequences. This also happens to be what Legends does right.

The problem with Endgame is that you have so many people who get taken out of their proper times and not returned. A few examples; Loki stealing the Tesseract after the battle of New York, Gamora from 2014 just chilling now in the future somewhere. The Thanos that was defeated in the big battle was from the past and therefore him dying then creates a massive paradox. Like, what the heck? Other noteworthy additions; Nebula shot her past self and didn’t die. Steve Rogers went and apparently lived an entire life in the past with Peggy???? (Without telling her about Hydra, rescuing Bucky, saving the Starks, meeting young Tony, or doing a whole host of other things. Steve Rogers who in Civil War said, “If I see a situation headed south I can’t just ignore it.” Yeah, right, Marvel, that’s exactly the kind of life Steve would live in the past.)

Now, literally all of this (except the part with Steve, but that’s another post) would be fine if Endgame had shown us that there were consequences to these actions. Like, for instance, Loki leaving after the battle of New York completely changes the next two Thor movies at least. Gamora never meeting Peter Quill in the past but him still remembering her is also a paradox. But no, Marvel leaves us with the sunny, cheerful ending where everyone but Tony’s family and Bucky Barnes live happily ever after. No consequences to time or anything.

Meanwhile, Legends of Tomorrow (and The Flash, for the record) is all about consequences. It is made very clear that the Legends going back in time to meet with their past selves will have consequences, and the show delivers those consequences when the group crashes in LA and finds dinosaurs and Big Ben there, and with Sarah’s line “I think we broke time”. To diverge a little, every time Barry Allen (the Flash) has gone back in time and changed something, there have been massive consequences for his friends and family and city that he then has to deal with (black holes, portals to other universes, his friends losing family members, his friends gaining superpowers, ect.). Another way to handle this is demonstrated in Doctor Who season 3, where in the final two episodes the villain makes a “Paradox Machine” to remove the consequences of humans from the future coming back in time to kill their ancestors. 

So, by all rights we should have a third movie titled, “Avengers: We broke Time” that deals with the consequences of Endgame. Because there are consequences, even if Marvel wants to ignore them. (Also, if you’re not looking at my comparisons of the plots of Legends and Endgame and wondering of Marvel blatantly ripped off DC then, well, I don’t know what to tell you. I could be wrong, but I can’t unsee the similarities.)

In conclusion; what the flippity heck, Marvel?

[ekkorn]

hi there, just saw in the tags that you didn‘t like endgame. would you like to expand on that? i am curious to know other people‘s perspective. personally, i liked it. it has flaws, yes, but to me it was enjoyable. if you don‘t feel like answering, that is fine :) have a great day!

oh wow. you really wanna know? okay, but on your own head be it. :o

i’m just joking, i’ll go easy, or at least give you the digest (a vicious lie) version. if you want to see the full extent of my derision and vitriol, you can go to @lowkeysebastianstan, which is the blog where i’ve tried to limit this too. but to give you the not at all short and not so sweet of it, here goes. (endgame spoilers obviously).

the first thing that really set me off was the ending, more precisely, what steve did. it made absolutely no sense whatsoever, and hit me closer to home than most of my followers here since bucky and steve are my fave characters, and the only ship i really have. now, i never thought stucky would become canon, not even a little, i didn’t even hope for it. sure, the representation would’ve been awesome, but there’s no way marvel could’ve done it justice, so it was just as well it was never gonna happen. what i hadn’t prepared for was to what extreme extent they were terrified of the ship and the effect it would have if they were to let it be even a hint that could be interpreted as some emotional connection between them, for 3 films they’re built bucky up as the most important character in steve’s life, he’s risked his own life to save him, he basically eradicated hydra during wwii fueled by grief for him, he was prepared to die for him in tws, he fought his friends and gave up everything for him in cacw, and then he just? leaves? to be with a woman who died of old age and natural causes after a long fulfilling life with another man and family of her own. who specifically told him to fucking move on in tws? yeah, sure. and do not get me wrong, i adore sam wilson, after bucky, and the real steve rogers, he is by far my fave in the cap verse (saving a few spots for my bp and cm peeps in the mcu, but we’ll get to them), and he is the superior choice to pick up the mantle, no doubt about it. (okay, a little doubt, they teased sebastian with that shield for 8 years, they based bucky on the brubaker storyline where he becomes cap, and so i do feel a little torn bc no matter how happy he must be for his friend, and him and mackie are good friends, he must be a little disappointed? but who knows, maybe they’ll do something with that in the series, which would be stupid af bc that would negate the positive leap in representation, and mackie deserves it too, so who the fuck knows, i’ll probably not be around to keep track anyways, and can you tell im rambling), but for steve’s last words to be to sam? while bucky stands and watch in the background? like??? i could go on in (more excruciating) detail, but that was why i linked the blog, there might be a point or two about this on there.

but that was just the start. all through the movie i felt disconnected and uneasy, they made some really weird choices, but i don’t think it was until nat took the plunge that i knew i had an absolute dud on my hands. 

the mcu has done a lot of things right, but their treatment of women is NOT one of them. and oh boy did they go out with a bang. first is the obvious implication, he got to live bc he had “more to live for”, and she didn’t have a family, and ye gods we know she can’t have kids, so why should she live? 

(see, if the bw movie wasn’t in the books, i’d completely get it, if it was to give scarjo her life back, and she wanted nat to be good and dead, sure. actually, when i first watched it, that’s what i thought tbh, that the bw movie was cancelled, so. but it’s not, so she will return. and since that the case it’s just fucked up that they yeeted her off the roster. and sure, some of the bw movie was always gonna be set in the past, but tbh? i don’t see much point in prequels for dead characters, you know that whatever happens won’t affect the outcome for the character at all, and i usually find them completely void of meaning. that might just be me though). and of course the fact that she died the same way gamora went didn’t help. (gamora’s death was maybe the single worst thing in aiw, she was fridged, not for the advancement of one man, but for two (thanos and quill) and it.just.shouldn’t.have.worked.thanos.cannot.love! again, mcu and women? not a good match.) 

then of course, it comes back to steve and how much he doesn’t give a crap about the people close to him in the present, we never see him care or grieve for anyone but peggy, and he could barely spare two tears for nat before it was all business again. and the rest of the team? i think clint cared a little, and banner threw a chair, but that was it. no memorial, not burial, no nothing, it was like she never existed, and she died saving the world just as much as tony, he couldn’t have done jack shit without the soul stone. 

and speaking of women, shuri and okoye? before the trailer dropped i was sure shuri was in this, that we’d get to see her lead in her brother’s stead. i actually did a short lament on this already, here.

carol was terribly underused, after all the oompf about her being there she was barely a blip. but the haircut was fantastic, and the best part of the movie was when she returned at the end.

then there’s nebula and gamora (again). at first i was actually quite pleased that they sort of found a loophole to bring gamora back, but then i thought about it (yes, sometimes i get seduced by the flashy colours too) and yeah. sure. a gamora is there, but she’s void of all the things that makes her interesting and all her development is just gone, everything “our” gamora achieved and experienced is gone, three films worth of arc is worthless. so what then is the point of getting “her” back? i don’t care about this person, i don’t know her. are we gonna see quill just harass her the next film, bc you know, she’s been with him, so why shouldn’t he expect her to just do that now? tbh i wouldn’t be surprised, but now that gunn is back maybe he can save it? not that i’ll be around to keep track though.

then nebula. nvm that time paradox, that’s a whole other fuckfest i’ll get back to, but we had to get to see her get killed too, didn’t we. by her sister, the only person in the world she loves. fucking fantastic, i cannot control my enthusiasm. 

and no, cool as it was, the a-force surrounding parker is not enough to bring this home. it was a cool sight though. (see? i can see the good.)

then of course it’s peggy. a woman he knew for a few months back during the war. (sure they knew each other longer, but i’d say, even if you’re very generous, they can’t have spent more than a couple of months in each other’s company, and they kissed once). who they stripped of all character development and autonomy so that steve could go back and get his “damce”. everything she achieved, every good thing that happened to her, her husband, her family, her advancement in shield, all gone. bc steve must have his happy ending, no matter that she told him to move the fuck on in tws, who cares. 

and then there’s sharon. yeah, they forgot about her, didn’t they. i mean, i was never really on board with that, the whole aunt/niece thing was a bit too weird for me, and this was way before i shipped stucky, but that doesn’t matter. bc they did that, they had them kiss within days after peggy’s death (oooh, look how he cared for peggy), making it clear that this was the beginning of something. (also marvel and several of the actors treated emily like crap, oh yeah, i remember, doesn’t help either.) 

(gods i said this would be short, didn’t i? imagine if i could’ve spent all the words i’ve spent ranting about endgame on my latest chapter? good grief.)

then there’s their so called lgbt representation. 30 seconds of a character that had a total of 60 sconds of screentime in tws lamenting his dead lover? well. i. they wanted credit for that. i just.

then there’s thor. they negated every ounce of development he had in ragnarok, this also goes for aiw, wasn’t happy about that, and made him completely ooc, he just spends his time drinking ab\nd playing fortnite of all things? bold of them to assume that will still be a thing in 5 years, but also? thor? THOR? neglecting his people? his friends? the world? thor? then they of course made him fat, haha, so they could add fat-shaming to the list while they make light and fun of his drinking problems, his grief and his ptsd. awesome. the funniest. 

then there’s clint. that they just randomly made a killer? just, like a straight up murderer? okay then. and still nat deserved to die. excellent.

then there’s banner. okay, i don’t think they fucked him up as bad as the others, but it’s still strange he would risk his intelligence to become hulk full time, but you do you.  

rocket and rhodey were the best things about this damn disaster, just putting it out there.

then there’s tony. i mean, we knew he was the main protagonist, and im not objecting that, (even if i think it’s really strange he’d be born in 1970) but idk. that was strange’s plan? all that for that? and pepper just went, eh what the hell, just die, i can raise this kid you wanted. (i know, i know, she’s her mom, she cares), but it was just so flat. and idk. i mean, rdj wanted his life back, just as evans, but i’d want to see that switched, that tony get to retire and steve sacrifice himself to save the world. tony could still be the deciding factor in strange’s plan even if steve delivered the coup de grace. at least he cared enough to show an emotion™when peter came back, which was more than steve bothered with. jfc they fucked up steve.

then there’s the time travel. okay, a few things about the 2012 thing. they put him in the elevator, and then, instead of having him just kick the crap out of the agents, they reference hydra!cap? the biggest shitstorm in the comics in the last two decades? like what the actual fuck? then of course there’s the americas ass thing, which, again, that’s steve, cares about his ass but not his friends! (but at least 2012 steve cares about bucky, maybe he’ll save him a couple of years early, back to the future steve will just live out his life knowing bucky is getting tortured somewhere in siberia, good times.) oh! and i guess they have their loophole to get loki back too, great, they’ll probably just forget that he’s not in the main timeline, bc who cares. 

and the fun just keeps coming with the time travel. oh they tried with some crap explanation that no one can make sense of, but here’s the kicker. they can’t either, they don’t even want to try, they don’t even agree with each other. 

+ +

how did they know to meet up in wakanda or wherever, the dustees? did strange send a memo? not just the ppl in the soul realm or wherever they were, but all the others too, like valkyrie and hope. time and place just magically popped into their heads? and what happened when they all came back? or some came back, bc obviously a shit ton of ppl died at the dusting, like the pilot of a 747 gone? plane goes down and such, ppl really dead. and where do they reappear? where they disappeared? aka those passengers that got dusted comes back mid flight? fun! and what about the ones that moved on in their absence? what happens to the ones that come back when their wives and husbands are remarried, when there’s no place for them in their old lives. did all of peter’s classmates get dusted, or did the rest of the class graduate without him, i must assume that all of those in s:ffh did, otherwise some would be in college by now, yeah?

and that’s another reason their watertight time travel is leaky af, there’s no way to get the logistics to work. the only option as such would have been to go back to 2018 and fix it, to reset time, bc otherwise there are just too many holes, it’s just not possible. but they can’t do that bc then they’ll undo all the things that happen in the future that the characters don’t want to lose, like tony’s kid. 

oh, i know, it’s a superhero movie, but im strange like that, i expect a modicum of internal logic in all my movies, the bitch that i am. 

okay, im gonna leave it there, ive run out of steam, and i want to gif a set. there’s a few things more, but i think you’ve gotten the gist, that i’m not a fan of this movie and a short (lol, so sorry, nothing is ever digest with me, i should’ve warned you) list of reasons why. honestly this is the first time i’ve really don’t a more general account, ive pretty much stuck to steve and that crapshute, there’s a lot of other blogs that concentrate on the other characters, i’d list a few, but i don’t have it in me rn, pop me a msg if you’re interested, also if you’re interested in some real meta, this rambling rant isn’t something that people should be exposed to honestly. 

avengers: endgame was a shit movie and no amount of “he’s worthy” and “avengers assemble” is going to fix that, BUT if you enjoyed it, i don’t think less of you, obviously everyone is different, and i envy the hell out of you, i sorely wish i could’ve liked it too. the russos directed what is by far the best movie in the mcu imo, tws, and they had us all fooled, even if we probably should’ve seen it coming after iron man 4: civil war.

hope you’re having a spectacular day, sorry you had to read this if you did, and and thank you for making mine better, i really had a rant in me needing out. (you’d think i’d run out of hate for this by now, but nah.)

thank you for the ask :) 

[dyslexicsquirrel]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Marvel Cinematic Universe, Iron Man (Movies), Captain America (Movies) Rating: General Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Steve Rogers/Tony Stark Characters: Steve Rogers, Tony Stark, Happy Hogan, Pepper Potts, James "Bucky" Barnes, Natasha Romanov (Marvel) Additional Tags: Mistaken Identity, Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, Light-Hearted

Stony Bingo 2019 round 2 fill (square T5) Prompt: mistaken identity 

Steve was not sure how he ended up in this mess. And it was a mess because the people surrounding him had been expecting… a model? Or something, he still wasn’t sure. There was a lot of arguing going on. All this because of some man at the airport holding a sign that said ‘Rogers’.

Steve had been on his way out of the airport after he hit baggage claim to go flag down a cab or see if he could get a Lyft or something. The guy holding the sign had been wearing a suit, looking bored, and checking his watch and Steve had thought maybe his friends had gotten him a car home as a surprise? It wasn’t like it was so far out of the realm of possibilities. He’d been gone for the majority of the last four years in the army. They could have wanted to do something nice, so Steve walked up to the guy. “You waiting for Rogers?”

“Yeah, that you?” He looked relieved at the possibility of getting to leave the airport. Steve hated to disappoint the guy, but he also wanted to make sure he wasn’t stealing someone else’s ride.

“Steve Rogers?”

“Eh,” the guy said with a shrug. “I didn’t get a first name. You coming or not?”

“I guess I’m coming?” So, he’s followed the guy out of the airport, into the summer heat, which was a completely different type of heat than the type he’d gotten use to after three deployments to the Middle East.

He was led to a limo, and the man opened the door, holding out his hand. “I’m Happy, by the way.”

Steve switched his duffle to his other hand and shook Happy’s. “Nice to meet you.”

“You want to keep your bag with you are you want to throw it in the trunk?”

“Um.” Steve bent down to get a look at the inside of the limo. “Think I’ll keep it. Thanks though.”

“No problem. Hop in, I know where you’re going so just relax. I hear it was a long flight.”

“The longest,” he said with a sigh. It was what it had felt like at least. He slid into the limo, Happy shut the door behind him, and then got into the driver’s seat. The partition was up, so Steve pulled his phone out of his pocket to send a message to the group chat.

Steve: omw. Flight was fine. So tired

Bucky: great! Cant wait to see you. Nat made the thing with the pasta

Nat: Nat can talk for herself. But I made the alfredo thing is what he means. Also there’s garlic bread

Steve: you’re a saint and not just for putting up with Buck

Bucky: haha you think youre so fucking funny. I dont care youve been in the army I can still kick your ass punk

Steve shook his head. He’d missed them. He let out a slow breath, letting his loll against the back of the seat. This felt like the longest day of his life. He wanted a nap so badly. And why not? There was enough room for him to stretch out back here and the drive from LAX to Pasadena would take a while. Steve laid down across the seat, not even caring about the fact that it wasn’t all that safe, and closed his eyes.

*

Steve felt as if he’d just closed his eyes when someone started nudging his foot and he went from asleep to awake in a second. Pushing up in his elbows he could see Happy leaning in the open door of the limo frowning at him. “Come on, buddy. We’re already late. The boss is gonna have my ass.”

“Boss?” He asked, but Happy had already pulled his head back out and was standing by the open door, waiting for Steve to get out presumably. He shoved his phone, that had fallen onto the floor back in his duffle and slid out of the vehicle.

And froze.

“Where the hell are we?” His eyes scanned his surroundings. This was not Pasadena. This was not Nat and Bucky’s house.

Happy was still frowning at him. “The studio. Come on. Pepper and the makeup and wardrobe guys are waiting over on lot B.”

“I think there might be some kind of…” Steve started, but trailed off when Happy set off at a brisk pace, weaving through the crowd of people. Steve shut the door of the limo since Happy hadn’t and it seemed like he should then set off after Happy before he lost him and maybe his only hope of finding out what was happening.

*

“This is not the guy,” a red haired woman said to Happy for the fourth time, pointing at Steve, talking about him but not too him. That had been happening a lot since he followed Happy onto the lot.

“Pepper, he said his name was Rogers.”

“Ian Rogers, Happy. You were supposed to pick up Ian Rogers not—” ‘Pepper’ broke off and looked at Steve. “I’m sorry, what’s your name?”

“Steve Rogers, ma’am.”

“Right.” She paused for a moment, staring at him, but shook her head and went back to her conversation with Happy. “Not Steve Rogers. You need to go pick up the right guy. He’s still at the airport. His agent just called me, because Ian called him, and I don’t like getting yelled at for things I wasn’t aware were a problem.”

“But traffic is going to be murder,” Happy attempted to complain, but Pepper cut him off in a business-like manner that would have made some of his drills sargeants proud.

“I don’t care about the traffic.” She pulled something out of the folder she was carrying and handed it to Happy. “This is him. Please, go pick him up.” The words made it sound as if Happy had a choice in the manner, but her tone left no room for arguments. Happy looked at the picture Pepper had handed him (Steve took a peek and the only thing he shared with this guy was a last name) and slunk off. Steve felt a little bad for him. It hadn’t been completely Happy's fault, but Steve was a little too tired to work up full blown concern that the guy had to battle LA traffic again.

“Now,” Pepper said, pulling Steve’s focus pack to her. “Mr. Rogers, I’d like to apologize for this mix up.”

“It’s alright, ma’am. If I could just get a ride home, that would be great, though.”

“If you don’t mind waiting a bit longer I can have Happy give you a ride when he gets back,” Pepper said, and Steve did mind a little because he wanted to go home (to Nat and Bucky’s home where he was staying for the time being anyway), carb load on fettuccine Alfredo and garlic bread and then sleep for a week.

He was trying to think of a polite way to tell her he would just get a cab when someone behind him said, “Why is Happy leaving again?”

“Oh, Tony, there you are.” Pepper looked off to a point past Steve’s shoulder and he turned to see who she was talking to. He was wearing a pair of jeans, a Rolling Stones t-shirt and a pair of crazy looking sneakers that made Steve blink. They were bright orange hi-tops that looked like they had paint splatter all over them. His hair was gelled into one of those purposely messy styles that Steve could never pull off, but this guy made look both like he just rolled out of bed and right off a runway, and his goatee was precisely trimmed.

He should have looked like he was trying too hard, but he didn’t. The look fit him somehow and the fact that he was one of the most gorgeous men Steve had seen in a while didn’t hurt. Don’t Ask Don’t Tell wasn’t a thing anymore, but Steve still hadn’t spread it around that he was bi-sexual. And except for a brief fling with a British soldier he’d met in Afghanistan that ended when his deployment did, Steve had dated anyone since.m, if you could consider what he’d had with Peggy ‘dating.’

He hadn’t slept with anyone since either and that had been… more years than he cared to admit. Steve blamed that for the overblown reaction to the man in front of him.

“Sorry, I’m late, hun,” this Tony guy said, kissing Pepper’s cheek when she walked over to him. “Traffic from Malibu was crazy.”

“Yeah, I’ve been hearing all about the traffic today,” Pepper said with a sigh. “But there was a mix up. Happy picked up the wrong person at the airport.”

“What?” Tony’s gaze landed on Steve and he pulled his sunglasses off, a frown pulling down the corners of his mouth. The weight of his dark eyes only rested on Steve for a moment, but it was enough for him to still feel them when he turned away. “How did that happen?”

“Same last name. Tony, meet Steve Rogers.” Pepper gestured to Steve with one hand. Tony was looking at him again and Steve cleared his throat.

“Huh,” Tony murmured. He gave Steve a quick once over and pivoted back to Pepper. “Maybe we could—”

“No,” she interrupted. “Ian has a contract, Tony.”

“Ah, well.” Tony shrugged, tossing Steve a crooked  smile. “Had to try. You would have been perfect.”

“I—thank you,” he stuttered. “Where am I? No one has told me.”

“I’ve had plenty of days like that,” Tony told him in a conspiratorial tone. Steve stares at him blankly. “Anyway. Welcome to Stark Pictures. Sorry about this whole mess. We’re usually more professional.”

“It’s… fine.”

“I’m sure.” Tony didn’t sound convinced and Steve really didn’t want to try and convince him. The other man clapped him on the shoulder. “Listen, why don’t I drive you home. Where do’ya live?”

“Tony,” Pepper started, but Tony ignored her.

“Glendale? Burbank? What’s that one place from that one show?” He snaps his fingers a couple times, looking at Pepper expectantly.

“That’s not helpful,” is all she says.

It doesn’t seem to matter because Tony turns back to Steve. “West Covina. That’s it.”

“Pasadena.”

“Really? You don’t look like someone who’d live in Pasadena.”

Steve doesn’t know what that means. “I’m staying with friends.”

“Ah. Well, grab your stuff. I’ll take you home.”

“Tony, you should stay—”

“Pep, my favorite producer, light of my life, person who allows me to function.” He gripped her shoulders. Steve was really trying to figure out their relationship. “Happy isn’t going to be back anytime soon unless he runs all the red lights between here and LAX. Plus, you don’t need me here. I was just stopping by to stand around a look pretty.”

“Yeah, but Tony—”

“I’m just the owner of the studio, Pepper. You make the real magic happen,” he said, walking away backwards. “Come on, Steve.”

Steve’s desire to go home won out over anything else. “It was nice to meet you,” he tells Pepper, picking up god duffle from where he’d dropped it and double timing to catch up with Tony who was already halfway to the back entrance where he’s walked in.

When they made it outside, Steve stopped in his tracks because damn, this man had a nice car. Attractive, owned a movie studio, and he had great taste in cars? “Is that a—”

“Nineteen sixty-five Shelby Cobra? Yes, it is.” He popped the trunk and Steve stowed his duffle. “Did the restoration on this baby myself.”

“She’s beautiful,” Steve lightly ran his hand along the trim. Bucky was going to be so jealous.

“Thank you.” Something in Tony’s voice had Steve’s eyes popping up. He found Tony watching him. “This might sound a little crazy…”

“Yeah?”

“But did you want to get some dinner?”

“I’d love to,” he found himself saying before he could really think about it.

“Perfect. What are you in the mood for?”

“Honestly?” Steve and Tony climbed into the car. “I’d kill for a burger right now.” Coming almost directly off his last deployment, he hadn’t had a decent one in months.

“You’re in luck, I know where to get the best burgers in Hollywood.”

Tony started the car and drove out of the lot, the car purring. Apparently Tony’s hair hadn’t been styled that way; it was from driving with the top down. Steve could get used to this.

[escapingreality1992]

The Calm Effect of Hearts Ch. 10

Abigail’s POV

           Soft lips against mine woke me from slumber, my hands sliding up the warm chest of my companion, Bucky, who kissed me again breaking down my walls to slip his tongue inside my mouth. He pulled my body flush against his, rolling onto his back allowing me to be on top, the kissing never ending.

           A sensual moment never moving past second base, subtle touches lingering every so often. Finally, the two of us left breathless, the first whispered words of the early flew by his lips.

           “How do you feel about taking a vacation?” Bucky’s hands drifted up and down my back, slipping under the fabric of my shirt, a sweet, sleepy smile gracing his lips; those magical blue eyes of his had a twinge of desire in them, our moment from earlier increasing his hunger for me. My own fingers stroked his hair as I lay flat against him, enjoying the heat which radiated off his body.

           “A vacation? Are the Avengers allowed to do such a thing?” I asked, my lips twisting into a playful grin. He chuckled, the vibration from his chest tickling my breasts. Leaning up, he gave me another kiss before answering my question.

           “Of course. We all get exhausted from time to time. Sometimes we need a break and relax a little. Though it won’t only be the two of us. Tony thought about renting out a house in the Outer Banks, so we’ll be with most of the team. If you’d like, we can figure out things to do on our own,”

           “Hmm…a vacation sounds marvelous. When do we leave?” I asked, placing a kiss on his cheek.

           “In an hour. If you need to pack, you can start now,” he informed me.

           “Let’s cuddle for a few more minutes. I’m enjoying this moment,” I nuzzled as close to his as I could get, warmth enveloping me all over. Bucky’s arms wrapped around me, securing my body a few extra minutes, his steady breathing giving me comfort. In his arms, I knew I was safe, protected. In his arms, being with him, I was home.

           Home. You’re my forever. My true love, I thought, a small smile creeping onto my lips.

           “Okay. Time to pack,” I stated, climbing off of him to pull out a suitcase from my closet. I packed the essentials; toiletries, clothes, swimsuits, a nice outfit in case of a fancy night out, and a sweater for colder nights. Pulling out a smaller bag, I stuffed in my chargers and headphones if I found myself alone. On top of the clothes and everything else, I threw in a few books, not too many, anticipating other sorts of “fun” I could be getting into.

           Packing took around half an hour; more than enough time to change into comfy sweats for the short plane ride and drive down to the beach. Plenty of time to rejoin Bucky in the bed for another 15 minutes, leaving the room a few minutes after cuddling to meet everyone downstairs to ride to the airport.

  Bucky’s POV

           It didn’t take long to get down to the Outer Banks, Duck to be more precise; Abigail by my side most of the time. Due to the early morning, she slept most of the car ride on the way and I woke her at our arrival. We had to take two vehicles because of the large group; Tony, Wanda, Vision, Sam, and Bruce in one SUV and Steve, Natasha, Thor, Loki, Abigail and me in the other. Stephen Strange had to deal with his own troubles and Clint opted out to spend time with his own family. Pepper, Tony’s fiancé would join us on Wednesday.

           “Head on up. Find a room for us. I’m going to help Steve and Tony unload. I’ll meet you in a few minutes,” I told Abigail when we got out of the SUV, we had rode in. She nodded and, grabbing her suitcase and disappeared inside with Wanda and Natasha. I pulled out a couple of boxes full of snacks and games, lugging them up the steps and to the kitchen. On the way back down, I ran into Steve with his suitcase, a curious look on his face.

           “Any plans to get a ring for Abigail yet?” he asked.

           “No, not this week. Maybe next week. Her birthday is next Thursday. I thought it’d be a good time to get her a gift and make arrangements for a ring as well,” I answered, heat flushing my face; my entire body in reality. It’s no secret I’d been thinking about marrying Abigail. Of course, she had no idea and I planned to keep it that way until I was ready to propose to her.

           I loved her and she became my world, my home. Less nightmares occurred now that she moved in; she’d calm me down when one popped up, a magic she never knew she carried.

           “It’s great you’ve found someone who has made you happy. She’s a wonderful soul to have around. I’m positive nothing will separate the love you two have,” Steve told me, patting my shoulder.

           “Not unless someone triggers…” I said, unable to finish the sentence. The problem with being known as the Winter Soldier involved a string of words which triggered me into becoming the lethal assassin I’d been brainwashed into.

           “I’m not sure even it could break you apart. Maybe we can talk to T’Challa about getting it out of your mind when we get back,”

           “You don’t know that. What if…”

           “Buck, she survived torture because of the love for you. I believe she could survive the Winter Soldier. There’s something different about her. Even for a simple civilian who we adore,” he reassured me. I nodded and resumed unloading the two vehicles. When the final box made it upstairs, I found Abigail on the top floor, standing on the balcony, peering out on the ocean. I wrapped my arms around her from behind, my chin resting on her head.

           “Magnificent. It’s peaceful, tranquil. I could stay here forever. With you by my side until we grow old,” She said, her fingers linking with mine. She leaned back against me, new feelings stirring inside my heart.

           “Abigail, I…”

           “I know you have to continue saving the world. You have responsibilities. All I’m saying is I want my life to end with you. Only you. You’re my home,” she continued.

           “I want that too. More than you know,” I whispered. She angled her body in a way to pull me down for a kiss. Who knew so much passion could exist within a kiss? Our kisses always had fireworks going off in my head, pleasant tingles shooting through my body. This kiss differed from most kisses we shared. It had enough electricity in it which made my heart flutter, my breath falter; the whole world stood still for a few moments. We pulled back, out of breath, our eyes full of desire.

           “Want to…” I suggested.

           “Yes. Close the door. Join me in the shower,” she responded. She removed her body from my grasp and headed to the bathroom leaving me to follow suit. I closed our bedroom door, entering the bathroom, stripping out of my clothes, the water ready for me to join Abigail. I opened the glass door, stepping in and folding my arms over her, our lips connecting like magnets. I backed her against the wall, my hands ghosting over her breasts. She moaned in my mouth, her hands tangling in my wet hair. Moving my lips to her neck, I found a sweet spot, sucking it, making more delicious moans escape her mouth.

           My hands moved further south, spreading her legs apart, allowing me to insert two fingers inside her folds. Heavy breathing and moans exited her throat as I worked her, my own arousal building. I removed my fingers, lifting her hips to wrap her legs around my waist. I pumped my cock a few times and thrust into her body, both of us not holding back with pleasure. My lips found hers again as I thrust into her over and over, bringing us to our release. She came crying out my name, her walls clenching tight around me, sending me over the edge, both of us riding out our high.

           “I love you,” she stated, breathing hard.

           “I love you too,” I said, pulling out and setting her down on the floor.

           “What do you say to a walk on the beach before dinner?” she asked.

           “I’d say it’s a perfect idea,” We turned off the water and dried off, changing into shorts and t-shirts to venture out onto the shore hand in hand.

  Abigail’s POV – Wednesday

           The first two days of vacation went by in a flash consisting of swimming, game nights, and walks along the beach. Pepper joined us in the afternoon, disappearing off with Tony to so something similar to activities which Bucky and I had done on the first day. Tonight, Bucky and I decided to deviate from drinking with our friends, opting to go out to a nice Italian restaurant instead. I dressed in a classic black dress and black heels, my hair in curls and makeup kept to a minimum; Bucky dressed in a white button up shirt and brown trousers, brown shoes to match, his hair combed back – a sight to behold.

           We had wine and pasta – what else are you going to eat at an Italian restaurant.

           “Do you want to watch a movie when we get back? We’ll have the house to ourselves. No one to bother us,” he stated, twirling around noodles on his fork.

           “Sure. I’d enjoy a quiet night with a movie. We can have loads of cuddle time,” I replied. We shared a dessert – Italian lemon cake – and returned to the house. The recreation room downstairs had theater room connected to it beside the pool table and it’s where we decided to spend the last hours of the night. I gathered up blankets while Bucky started up the Blu-ray player. He loaded a movie and joined me on the couch.

           “Sit in my lap. Snuggle close,” he requested. I lifted up the blankets as I adjusted my body to get comfortable in his lap, wrapping us both in the soft gray fleece. He pressed play, the music of Phantom of the Opera coming to life.

           “My favorite. I’ve always loved the Phantom,” I commented, unbuttoning two buttons of Bucky’s shirt to brush my fingers against his chest. He shivered, pulling me closer to him, his cheek pressed against my head. The night became one of my favorites, which would lead to something the following week.

  Bucky’s POV – Friday

           The week ended prompting us to return to the compound. Thursday had been spent lying in bed underneath the sheets, making love or watching movies; it rained the entire day, nothing else better to do during the gray, solemn day. As we packed up, I planned to run out for a little while to pick up Abigail’s birthday gift and more importantly…a ring. I didn’t plan to propose to her on her birthday but a few days later. I knew she would say yes, no worries about our future together.

           As I sat on the plane with her, our hands linked together, I knew the time was right. I didn’t want to let her go, I needed her to be my wife. The thought of the Winter Soldier didn’t cross my mind when we returned home, didn’t worry me as I shopped around. I should have been prepared for the day when an enemy triggered the other part of me, the dangerous part. No one could foresee the effect Abigail had on it, on him; not until she happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

[isabellaofparma]

can i ask what your problems were with endgame?

Oh, boy. I’m just gonna start out with saying that I’m more of a casual fan of Marvel and I’m less invested in the characters than some but it still hurt at certain points.

My biggest problem was how they treated Thor’s character. They turned him into one, big, fatphobic joke. He was the punchline of every single joke in that movie. And every time I thought ‘Oh, finally we are getting serious, we are gonna dive into his depression and PTSD!!’ the movie went ‘Nope, another cheap joke at his expense.’ It was painful to watch and I don’t think I will ever do so again precisely because I can’t watch what they have done with Thor. They tried so hard to be funny like Ragnarok was but instead they just ruined everything about him. Also there was not enough Thor/Valkyrie. I loved them in Ragnarok. Although, I’m gonna say that I mostly enjoyed Thor’s scene with Frigga. They were sweet.

And then there was Steve’s ending which just… didn’t make sense. I’m sorry, but it didn’t. I adored Steve/Peggy but we have moved on from that relationship movies ago? Peggy had a life, a husband, children. And Steve? He spent years with his friends and team in the present. Years!!! He has known them far longer than he did Peggy and I just don’t see how he could leave them? And while 2019 is far from perfect, which I’m sure is true for 2023 as well, I cannot imagine living in the present and willingly going back to the 40s. Steve himself has said he likes current things. He has started becoming a part of it. And all that goes out the window? Don’t even get me started on the plotholes the timetraveling causes and are we just meant to believe he’d leave Bucky, (you know, the Bucky who he had 3 movies dedicated to, who he started wars for) in the hands of Hydra and let the same organization fuck up his wife’s life work? And obviously I’m a bitter little Steve/Bucky shipper on top of all that. Because after every CA movies I just… can’t see Steve leaving Bucky behind.

I also wanted more Carol. I went in thinking we are gonna see her a lot and she is gonna have a major role but she disappeared early on and only showed up at the end. But I know I shouldn’t complain about that because some characters didn’t even get lines…

The one scene I can say that stood out to me was the final battle. That was genuinely amazing.

TL;DR: I selfishly wanted more for my favourites.

[doctorstrangeaskblog]

Hi! I read your opinion on Ca:Cw and how Dr. Strange'd fit in that. It's a very interesting opinion, but on some points I diasgree with you. I don't Steve's actions were the ones to tear the team apart. When he 1st intervened it was in Bukarest, and it was because he knew Bucky wouldn't do that, and the forces had a shot on site order on Bucky. At the airport he warned his team of the consequences and he tried to warn Tony but the other team didn't listen. So I don't think it's fair to say that.

You just said it was Steve's action that started it all though. I really don't think it's a matter of being fair or not. I never said Steve's actions were wrong. Everyone was wrong. The team could have listened, Steve and Tony could have left their egos aside to talk, them all could have ellaborated a plan instead of fighting etc.

I never said it was Steve's fault and to be honest, in his place, I would have done the same (save my friend and an innocent). It's not because a character triggers a series of events that he/she is bad or responsible for all the triggereg events. The Avengers failed as a team as a whole in that movie and that's precisely what created the consequences IW and Endgame will discuss about regarding Tony and Steve mainly.

Tony only saw the situation thinking about consequences he would have to face and Cap did risk his friends in the name of an ideal, and none of those actions were the best. I'm not here saying "Cap America is evil and he sucks", I'm just stating the facts, and we can't deny he was one of the most noble characters of the movie. It's still a fact he thinks like a soldier though, and Tony thinks like a king, but that's what Marvel characters are about: they commit mistakes, they are human and they fall, that's why they're so realistic and human in so many aspects. We saw Tony and Steve act independently because the team didn't listen and that normally lead to problems, and that doesn't mean they're bad or wrong, they're just trying their best.

With Endgame arriving I think it will be very clear both to the characters and to the fans that being right or wrong about a point is the least important thing when you have huge responsabilities on your shoulders that should be more important than your pride. The Avengers only lost to Thanos because they weren't together, I think IW was clear enough to show us that. Anyway, Civil War brings up many reflections, such as until when saving someone is heroic or selfishness? How strong a friendship must be to not turn into hostility? How far should we let our emotions guide our actions and most importantly, when should being right or wrong in a discussion mean victory or defeat? Because in Civil War, Tony and Steve believed they were right, but both lost, and in IW, Thanos was biologically and logically wrong, but he won all the same.

I apologize if my opinion offended you or the Steve fanbase anyway, and this is very weird because I'm in the Steve fanbase and my discussions are meant to deduce, simulate and analyse stuff that happened in the movies, I never mean to make a character sound better or worse. Just look at Thanos, he's the worse as a person, his morals, his ideology, his methods, it's all corrupted and wrong and cruel, still, he's a great character, one of the best of the MCU, he was well elaborated and explored but still, he's a bad person, quite insane and sarcastic, not someone you want as a roomate, still, he's a great character. Take Tony as an example too, a ton of his actions caused sooo many problems, basically the problems of his entire trilogy, Avengers 2 and maybe IW if coming back to Earth was the best option(?) still, none of that makes Tony despisable or bad in general, it just makes him human and it doesn't erase all the good things he did. Steve also has the right to miss, it's not that they do it on purpose.

[shadowsndaisies]

HW18D3 - Halloween Party

HW18D7 → Halloween Party

Fandom: Marvel

Pairing: Steve Rogers → “Captain America”

WC: 3753

2k18 Holiday Masterlist                            normal masterlist

“Good morning everyone!” your cheery voice rang out as you entered the kitchen, you noticed Bucky, Sam and Clint were sitting on the sofa connected to the open concept living room, Tony was by the stove, Wanda and Nat were sitting at the island table across from them Thor and Bruce. Vision was staring at the sleeping boy on the other couch, Peter.

“Morning, (Y/n),” Steve raised his mug from where he was standing, leaning against the counter beside the coffee machine he offered a soft smile as you met his blue eyes, you sent one back.

“Oh good you’re here, you wanna take over for me?” Tony asked, looking back to you.

“What are you doing?” Nat asked looking over to Tony.

“I’m making breakfast!” Tony told them and then Wanda turned to me.

“You better take over,” she smirked, sipping her tea.

You laughed as you walked over, taking a look at what Tony was making you shook your head, he was making bacon. Moving to the fridge you began to pull out all sorts of stuff, eggs, rice, green onions, bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, Portuguese sausage, you quickly and precisely began throwing everything together. You cut the veggies, prepped the sausage, and cooked the rice, then everything went in together and soon enough you were plating the food for everyone. First Wanda, and Nat, then Tony, Thor, and Bruce, next was Steve, Bucky, Sam, and Clint, and then you made two final plates one for your self and one for the sleeping teenager. You took both your plates into the living room, setting them both down on the coffee table by Steve before you walked over and crouched in front of Peter.

“Pete, bud, you gotta get up,” you said softly to the teenager boy but gained no response. “Peter…” you cooed again, this time a hand coming up to tuck his mussed hair back. In the short time since Tony had introduced Peter to you, you’ve had this sort of older sister like relationship with the kid, he was extremely sweet and intelligent and it was so easy for you to love the kid. So you did your best to let May know he was okay when he was spending the night or working late and you did everything you could to make sure the kid was doing his best to stay alive.

At his name the second time he shifted slightly and his eyes opened, he let out a small grunt at the sunlight shining in through the big open windows.

“C’mon, kid, I made breakfast,” you smiled as you moved back towards the other couch, you sat down in between Bucky and Steve, before pulling your plate to your lap. Peter sluggishly fell from the other sofa before basically crawling over to the coffee table, he sat down there so the table was level with his chest before picking up a fork and tucking into the fried rice before him.

You wore a small smile as you pulled out your phone, and snapped a picture of him, you then sent it to May to let her know you fed him breakfast and that he was safe with you all for the moment. Then you went back to your food.

“This is great, doll,” Bucky smiled as he nudged your shoulder with his.

“Glad you like it Sarg,” you smile back at him.

“Okay! Everybody, since you’re all eating this is my chance to tell you, that Friday we are having a Halloween party!” Tony announced gaining a few cheers.

“Are we to dress up?” Vision asked from where he was standing beside Wanda.

“Yes! Dress up is mandatory, and it cannot be your suits,” Tony said before someone could ask. “Also, (Y/n) I need your help with set up, kid you too!” Tony added as he walked towards his lab, plate, and coffee in hand.

“He’s always dragging you into stuff…” Sam chuckled taking a sip of his coffee.

“You’re not wrong but, it’s okay, Halloween is probably one of my favorite times of the year, making this place a little more spooky will be fun,” you shrug.

~~time skip~~

“Alright kid, you ready?” you asked, looking at Peter as you grabbed your purse and pulled on a jacket.

“I don’t get why I have to go,” Peter whined.

“Well, I’m not leaving you here all day. Also, I need another set of hands and who’s better than you?” you laughed.

“Anyone, literally anyone would be better than a sleep-deprived, web-slinging, teenage kid that can stick to walls who has homework due Monday,” Peter negated with a serious look on his face.

“You know for someone who stutters through nearly every sentence with Tony, kid’s got balls,” Bucky called as he suddenly appeared through the corridor.

Peter turned red and you let out a loud laugh, “I think it’s because I let him get comfortable with me, and look what ya did, Sarg. I think you broke him.”

“(y/n)...” Peter grumbled softly under his breath.

“Yeah, alright. Bucky would you like to help me with my Halloween shopping, in place of this poor child who seems to be having trouble with balancing life,” you throw the subtle dig towards the boy who’s become basically your little brother.

You received a chuckle from Bucky and an elbow from Peter, “sorry doll, I already have some stuff to do today, but take Steve, I don’t think he’s doing   today.”

You felt your heart rate quicken, Steve Rogers meant something to you, and while you were pretty sure on what you wanted, you also believed it wouldn’t be the same for him, “Thanks Buck but I’m sure Steve has something  to do.”

“What do I have to do?” Steve asked as he walked into the kitchen, you silently began cursing his super soldier hearing.

“(y/n) needs some help with the Halloween shopping and the kid doesn’t want to go,” Bucky nutshelled.

“What? Kid, why not? Halloween’s great!” Steve asked walking closer an energy drink now in his hand.

“See, if Captain America says Halloween is great, then Halloween is great,” You smirk.

“I’m not saying Halloweens not great, I’m just tired,” he stresses to you, and you know there’s something else going on.

“Fine, do your own thing, but you have to buy your own Halloween costume,” you huff, giving in.

He gives you a quick hug before running off, “thanks (Y/n)!”

“Make sure you eat lunch!” you shout after him.

Bucky starts to chuckle and you whip around from where you had stared after Peter to glare, “What?”

“Nothing,” bucky smirks and you give him a look, “you just sound a lot like a mom.”

“The me before this team would have taken offense to that, but since everyone on the team is either mentally the same age as Peter or younger, they require my internal motherly instincts,” you snark back at him.

“Ouch,” Bucky covers his heart with his hand, “you hurt me, doll.”

“Take your dramatics out of here, Barnes. I’ve got a Halloween party to prepare for,” your leveled look breaks into a smile, Bucky always knew how to make you laugh, he was just good at getting a smile out of people.

“Yes Ma’am,” he mocks salutes before grabbing his water bottle and walking off.

“You know, if you need some help with the party prep, I’d be glad to lend a hand, not that you’re not capable of doing it on your own, but if you need any I mean…” Steve fumbled and your smile grew, you found it adorable.

“I’d love some help Steve,” you cut him off and he flashes you a smile of slight relief.

“Great, let me grab my jacket,” he nods.

“Meet me by the elevator,” you tell him as you both split off.

A few minutes later Steve met you beside the elevator and then the two of you were off. You had been gone maybe 2 or 3 hours and when you got back you both were holding a multitude of bags, all full of Halloween decorations and your costumes while going through the stores, the two of you had somewhere decided to dress up together.

It really was a spur of the moment decision because one second you were debating on which cauldron would look better on Tony’s coffee table and then he had placed a pair of devils horns on your head. You had laughed and as you turned you noticed the angels halo. You quickly had it moved the headband through his hair settling it nicely.

And then that’s was it, your costumes decided, the two of you had decided to be the two sides of one’s conscience, the devil and the angel. You had a red dress you had used for an op that would work perfectly and there was little doubt that Steve wouldn’t be able to pull together something in white.

About half an hour into setting up Sam, Wanda and Clint walked into the main room to see you and Steve decorating.

“Oh good, more people, grab a box, they’re all labeled with where to go and there’s a post-it for recommendations,” you shout back to the three of them.

“Yeah, I’m not doing that, I already did Halloween set up at my place,” Clint sighed.

“That’s nice but you’re not there right now so, grab a box, Barton,” You call back as you try to pin up a cobweb.

“You look like you’re struggling a bit, pancake,” Sam laughed and you whipped around to glare at him.

“Grab a box, Sam,” Wanda coaxed as she grabbed on herself, she mouthed an ‘I got him’ with a small eye roll as she pushed him out the room.

“Thank you!” you shout after them before going back to trying to figure out how to pin this up.

You decided to grab a stool from the kitchen island, as carefully as you could you wobbled to a standing position, your brow furrowed as you realized the stool itself a was a bit unsteady to stand on. You kept going, you had just hooked the cobweb onto the clear non-stick hook you had placed on the wall when the stool shifted and your body lurched.

“Ah!” you let out, sticking out your arms at an angle to catch your fall and minimize the damage, except you never hit the ground, instead someone lets out and “umph,” as they catch you.

Your eyes become locked on the vibrant blues of your savior, Steve. A blush creeps up on your cheeks as you look at him, he had caught you in the air and was now holding you bridal style.

You offer a shy smile, “thanks…”

Steve gives you an amused smile as a small chuckle slips past his lips, “No problem, doll.”

As Steve put you down, you look back towards the cobwebs and pout, when you fell you pulled the web off the hook once more. Steve must’ve followed your gaze because he was reaching up with his six foot something stature you hook the webs back on, a low laugh escaping him as he did so.

“You nearly give your self a concussion and you’re worried about the decorations,” he laughs as he turns back to you.

“I take my jobs seriously,” you defend, “and I would’ve been fine,” you negate.

“Sure,” he nods, causing you to purse your lips.

“I would’ve,” you repeated, “but thanks for the catch.”

“Anytime,” he nods and for a moment you both just stare at each other, you swear he was going to say something else, based on the look on his eyes and you really wanted to hear what he was going to say but then a shout from Tony interrupted you.

“Hey! This place is looking great! Remind me to give you a raise, (y/n),” he shouted as he came through the halls, Steve’s eyes scrunched closed as you both let out a sigh.

You recovered first as you plastered a smile to your face walking to meet Tony by the fridge.

“Thank, Stark,” you snort, “I’ll keep it in mind.”

By the time the week had ended Steve and yourself were growing more and more frustrated, each time you had a moment or tried to talk to each other the two of you were interrupted or called away. Peter, needed your opinion on whether his costume was nice enough for the party, Wanda wanted to know which shade of lipstick was better for her costume, Sam wanted to train some more, Bucky needed to let some aggression out after a bad traffic day (talk about road rage), and so many other occurrences, that by Friday you had spent maybe 5 minutes with Steve on your own.

As you were finishing getting ready, coating your lips with a vibrant red lip matte color there was a knock on your door, “just a moment,” you shouted as you rubbed your lips together, capped the lipstick and put it back where it had come from in one of your drawers.

You walked over to the door, your heels were sitting by your bed, your dress was on, clicking the panel you unlocked it so it could open and you saw Steve. He was dressed in a white dress shirt that had the sleeves rolled up to his biceps, the halo headband was pushed into his blonde locks, he had on black slacks and black dress shoes.

You shook your head at him, “You could’ve at least gotten some wings,” you roll your eyes as you let him in.

“I think I’m okay, I’m wearing the headband,” he argues.

“Lame,” you shoot back as you drop to your bed and reach over to grab the red pumps that you’d be torturing yourself with tonight.

“At least I’m comfortable,” he shot back, looking at your heels.

“Haven’t you heard the expression beauty is pain?” you offer offhandedly, relishing in the moments while you sit.

“Whoever said that clearly hasn’t met you,” Steve smoothly responded causing you to blush, you decided to cover by moving to tie your hair up in a ponytail, you had flat ironed it so that the hair would fall straight. “I’m serious,” he added when you didn’t look over to him. “I’ve been trying to talk to you all week and each time I get the chance to something comes up and then I can’t say what I wanted to.”

“Which is?” you ask, as you fiddle with your headband, the one that had the devil horns on it, the one Steve had playfully put in your hair earlier that week.

“That spending the day with you was fantastic, that you are probably the prettiest girl I’ve ever met, and that I’d really like you to be my date tonight,” he smiled as he crouched down in front of you, wrapping his hands around yours.

A smile quirked at your lips, “I’ve been waiting all week for you to ask,” you muse.

Steve lets out a breath that turns into a chuckle, he grabs the headband from you and delicately slips it onto your head, so slowly as not to mess up your hair, and when he’s done one hand drops while the other leaves a soft caress on your cheek, he was much closer now.

“You look amazing,” he whispered.

You smile as he stands back up, offering you his arm. You grab your clutch and link your arm with his before the two of you walk to the elevator. When you join the party you notice a plentiful amount of people are already here. Immediately you get swept up by Wanda and Nat, Steve laughs as they steal you away from him.

You hang out with them, nursing your one to two drinks watching and laughing as they take shots. The buffet table looks great, especially with all the Halloween themed treats Tony had gotten catered, well, Pepper probably had made the calls. Halfway through the party Tony Stands up on the coffee table and cuts the music, causing everyone to look to him.

“Thank you for attending tonight, a big thanks to Pepper who sent out the invites and got the catering, and one other big thanks to that pretty lady in the red,”Tony pointed to you, “who was ironically and angel for setting up all the decorations on this floor,,” this gained many chuckles and a small snort from yourself, “and getting people to do so on the other floors os that Avengers Tower has been, what was the term you used, kid?” Tony looked back to Peter who had turned bright red, “Spookified,” Tony snapped as he recalled the term. “Enjoy the party!” he cheered taking another sip of his drink.

It was only when the Party was winding down that you really were able to regroup with Steve, you and he both had been pulled my numerous different people to talk to and share with. You had spotted him on the balcony, looking out at New York, he seemed to be alone.

You carefully joined him, avoiding any more conversations as you shut the door, immediately you shivered, it was a bit colder than you were expecting.

Steve turned when he heard the door, “hey,” he greeted, a soft smile on his lips.

“Hi,” you smile back as you step to stand beside him.

“Tony was right, you did an amazing job with the setup,” Steve complimented.

“Thanks, I had some pretty super help,” you joked.

“Oh! That was terrible,” he shook his head at your pun. You shivered a bit as another breeze blew by, this time he noticed. “We can go in if you’re cold,” he offered and you shook your head.

“No thank you, if we go back in we’re going to get sucked into a conversation or the drinking game Nat and Wanda want me to participate in that I’ve been avoiding. Also, I’d lose you in the crowd again, and you looked so peaceful out here,” you explain, your eyes were trained on the twinkling lights of the alive city that was around you.

“You’re going to catch a cold,” he argued.

“A cold would be a relief from the heels,” you joke.

“Feet hurting?” he asked.

“Yeah, I haven’t had a chance to sit down yet,” you nod, you turn to him when you feel him tuck one of the loose flyaway hairs behind your ear.

It’s quite a bit longer before you feel him nudge your elbow, your arms had come up to the railing so you could lean against them, “have you eaten yet?”

“Not really, just snacked a bit on the stuff Pepper had catered,” you admit.

“How does a burger sound?” he asked.

“Heavenly,” you wink, tippytoeing in your heels to tap his halo.

“Hilarious,” he deadpanned, “how about we go find a burger?” he offered.

“Steve Rogers are you asking me to ditch our friend's party?” you ask with a faux voice.

“Yes, yes I am,” he affirmed with a big smile.

“Go this way, if we go back in they’ll see us,” you nod and he leads you across the balcony, your hand in his as he helps you navigate in your heels. Before you know it you’re walking down the block and straight into a small burger joint.

You two were by far considered to be dressy compared to the rest of the patrons but you noticed all the little kids who were still wearing what they had probably gone trick or treating in.

You two slipped into a booth near the back and after you had ordered you kicked your heels up and pulled your feet underneath you.

“Better?” he mused.

“Much,” you agreed.

While waiting for the food and while eating you exchanged stories from growing up before you both became highly trained “super” heroes. You got to really know Steve Rogers, and you were enraptured.

When it was time to go, you slipped your heels back on, Steve paid, he insisted. And you were walking hand in hand once again. You laced your fingers with his this time and he smiled down at you as the two of you walked back to the tower. By the time you got back your feet were once again hurting and so without warning, Steve swept you into his arms, you laughed as you laced your arms around his neck.

“My knight in shining armor,” you laughed as he walked down the hall towards your room.

“Glad to be of assistance, Ma’am,” he winked causing you to laugh some more.

When he carefully put you down by your door you leaned against him to slip the heels off your feet and then turned and entered the room, allowing him to follow you in.

“Are you going to go back to the party?” you asked him as you put the heels away.

“Maybe, they’re probably wondering where we went,” he nodded unsurely and you walked into the bathroom to retrieve a make-up wipe.

“Or, you could go change and we can watch a movie in here?” you offered.

As you wiped your face you thought about what you had just said, you didn’t want to go back to the party but you also wanted to spend some more time with Steve.

“I’ll be back in five, don’t start without me,” he decides, sending you a pointed look.

“No promises,” you giggle as you throw the used wipe in the trash.

“Oh, (y/n)?” Steve called, turning around and walking back towards you.

“Yeah what’s up?” you asked with a soft smile.

“I forgot something,” he mumbled, an arm going around your waist and another to your cheek as he bent down and placed a kiss on your lips, you were surprised at first but quickly leaned into it. This was Steve, he was probably one of your favorite people and someone you trusted completely, you wanted this and so did he.

When he pulled away he took in your slightly dazed look with a smirk, “Happy Halloween,” he stated as he pulled away to go change.

You laughed as you did the same when he returned you were wearing sweats and a tank top, your hair was in a messy bun at the top of your head and you were sitting in your bed, booting Netflix up. Happy Halloween indeed.