#meanwhile steve is like please it’s fine it’s just me i deserved it

[theshippirate22]

every now and then i get hit with the idea of what might happen if Joyce found out about the sins of s1&2 jonathan

[yikesharringrove]

Last episode!!

Okay! This episode had lots of ups and downs. LOTS of joe and downs.

The Steve/Nancy bullshit can literally eat shit I hate it I HATE IT

Once again the tension is constantly being ramped up, especially with the Russian team and the upside down team.

I didn’t even notice the California team wasn’t in this ep bc that’s how little I care.

There are a bunch of scenes I’ve seen as gifs that I didn’t see? Are those from teasers? Like Eddie playing his guitar in the UD?? I assume that’s to help Nancy out but I have NO idea.

Anyway this one had some good moments of return to what st used to be especially with Lucas and Dustin, but the last 20-30 minutes of pure exposition and flashbacks really sucked the life out of me. Not too sure how I feel about this ep overall

Incoherent thots:

The way Steve is literally being EATEN ALIVE by those things jesus christ. We joke abt him getting fucked up every season but this is by far the worst one. He’s alone! And so scared! And he doesn’t know his friends are coming!

That pov shot got me fucked up

Eddie yelling “kill it” while Nancy and Robin do all the work. I wanna be him when I grow up

NOT STEVE BITING THAT THING he so has rabies now.

Okay but the way he flung it against the ground by the tail 👀👀👀 okay. Aight.

Bro he TORE IT IN HALF

Me watching this scene five times:

“Well they took about a pound of flesh, but other than that. Yeah never better” love how ducked up he sounds. Also Eddie in background like jEsUs H cHrIsT

ROBIN WITH THE RABIES lmao were the same

Ooop all of them getting behind Steve

These bitches are like the Procompsognathus in Jurassic park

Oh shit that’s a little person barbecue these fuckers are CRAZY

“Promise me you won’t kill her” OBVIOUSLY this guy doesn’t give a fuck about you OR el

Do you think brenner makes the other people at the lab call him papa?

SAM OWENS FINALLY ADMITTING THAT EL IS A FRIGHTENED, TRAUMATIZED, LITTLE GIRL

I just fucking can’t with brenner he’s literally disgusting and I wish he was GONE

“This place is not a prison” THEN WHY DO YOU KEEP SEDATING HER WHEN SHE TRIES TO LEAVE

“You chose to trust me once” when? That time you kidnapped her from her mother and then tortured her mother so viscously that she was left permanently disabled? Is that when el chose to trust you?

I keep seeing in tiktok people who think number 1 is hot and bro. He’s so awful looking to me I can’t believe it

Dustin being an awful fucking liar are you kidding

“That psycho fREAK killer? Uh, no.” Dustin for president

Ted Wheeler coming in clutch suggesting the kids that ARENT HIS go to jail lmao Mrs. Sinclair looked like he was talkin out of his ass

I happen to think that Eddie’s hair should be getting bigger and more frizzy each time he’s shown. That lake water does not help with the frizz

STEVE

“I’m fine. I’m fine” DUDE YOU ARE MISSING CHUBKS OF YOUR SIDES

Robin rattling off the symptoms of rabies I love her. She really thinks her best friend is dying she’s freaking out amazing

Nancy ripping up her skirt to bandage him welcome to Rocky horror

What’s with the squelching sounds when she wrapped it around him?? Bro ew

Please know that when Steve and Nancy looked all lovey dovey at each other I booed super loud I HATE IT HERE

“Yeah you almost shot me with that one” “you almost deserved it” rip to season 1 Steve who definitely pissed himself when Nancy put that gun in his face

EDDIE STOP “fer yer modesty, dude”

Okay did everyone need to spoon up when that earthquake happened???? I fucking hate it stop it with the Steve/Nancy shit I’m on my knees I’m BEGGING

Hopper figuring out how to make a Molotov cocktail in prison he’s amazing he’s showstopping he’s incredible

“Papa, I bet that old American did most of the monster slaying” vibes

Jesus, hopper wanting el to be growing and changing and learning and meanwhile el is underground and being re-traumatized by brenner

Murray looking like he’s shitting himself in that van while lying to the guards he’s amazing

Seeing all this shit, how much brenner spoke with all the kids individually, it kinda doesn’t make sense to me why el could hardly speak or knew a lot when she got out. Like reading and writing sure, those are learned, but you learn to talk by being talked to and by talking so. Idk if this makes sense it just makes me feel a little odd. Plus the older kids have a big vocabulary so ??? What is the truth

COLLAR HIM WHAT

Good. Now we get to see the actual fucking torture DUDE BRENNER SUCKS SO HARD WHY ARE THEY TRYING TO MAKE HIM BETTER

Jesus christ what the fuck is going on

Eddie looking so distressed when Steve doesn’t get the ozzy reference I’ve seen it in so many gifs it’s incredible

(Also Steve was not engaging bc he knows ozzy and he knows that moment billy made him watch it about a thousand times on mtv but now that he’s gone, it’s a really painful memory)

YES EDDIE TELLING STEVE HOW MUCH DUSTIN LOVES HIM IM CRYING MERLIN AND I WERE JUST TALKING ABOUT THIS

EDDIE SAYING HE WAS JEALOUS this scene fucks so hard omg

“I was too ashamed to be the only one left behind” EDDIE

EDDIE DO NOT TELL STEVE TO GET HER BACK STOP STOP STOP DO NOT FUCKING ENDORSE THIS UNHOLY UNION

Bro eddie needs to shut up fr Steve and Nancy should NOT get back together and I have so many fucking thoughts about it that it would be it’s own post entirely

Okay but I really hope they do some shit with the lights and Dustin and Lucas realize the gang is in that house that would FUCK

Dustin’s look when Erica says she’ll say what was under Lucas’s bed amazing

ERICA DIDNT KNOW THIS SHIT AFTER THE MALL??? Nobody filled her in????

Vecna opened it up obv

Okay but this Dustin and Lucas scene of them riffing off each other and figuring it out is so so good this is what I missed from stranger things this is what I loves about seasons 1 and 2

YES I SEE THAT LIGHT FLICKERING THATS YOU UPSIDE DOWNERS

STEVE IS THE ONE THATS GONNA FIGURE OUT HOW TO TALK TO DUSTIN AND LUCAS

Okay but the upside down being stuck in time of three years ago kind of fucks

Meanwhile Steve’s just screaming downstairs

“Maybe he really does have rabies” VIBES

I’m???? The magic around the lights is big time cheesey tbh

“Does anyone know Morse code?”

“Does sos count? Is that-is that good?” WHAT DO YOU THINK, DARLING????? Eddie is QUICKLY becoming a blorbo. (Except for that painful moment where he told Steve to get with Nancy but he wasn’t thinking right)

It’s not Vecna it’s your besties dw

I think they just should’ve had eddie touch the light the red magic shit looks really dumb to me

This shot in the Russian prison is BANANAS I’m freaking out

HOPPER HES THERE HES RIGHT THERE

Horse plinko

Not these MEAN MUGS the older kids have going on this is so funny to me

Why is this chess set so weird and ornate

Fucking brenner I just hate HATE him

I don’t trust brenner I don’t trust #1 I don’t trust anyone here

Lucas and Dustin fucking yeeting the lite brite and Erica giving her candy lmao

Eddie going “HI” and Steve like 🙄🫤🤨

Dustin: “We think we have a theory that can help with that”

Robin: “genius child”

“His tone, right” love LOVE him

“Honestly shouldn’t have gone with her first. She’s like, kinda mean” CALLAHAN

Callahan coming up the stairs going “oh little pigs, oh little pigs” like dude you’re the cop.

ERICA SLASHED THE TIRE FOR FUCKS SAKE SHES AMAZING

NOT THE TRANSITION FROM THE KIDS TO THE UPSIDE DOWN GANG

What song would save you from being vecna’d? I think mine would be crazy frog.

Is this really how she escaped??? I kinda wish that her escape was just always left a mystery tbh but this way is actually big time anticlimactic

Oh fuck the tracker in his neck made me SICK to look at

See in these flashbacks el has one hell of a vocabulary but we know that when she meets up with the boys she doesn’t know the word promise

HES MAKING A FLAMING SPEAR that’s so sexy aaaahahah

“The Americans are very tricky” in that super exaggerated American accent VIBES

Holy god the lighter being out of fuel

THE MOMENT THE DEMOGORGON FUCKING SPRINTS OUT OF THE DARKNESS I watched it three times at half speed so good

(Still wish this bitch was practical though)

This is the goriest scene in st so far and I wish it was MORE

“I gotta hand it to you commies. You’re committed” Murray’s karate is my favorite thing to come out of this season. He’s out here like billy zabka but not fucking painful

Not Joyce pressing all the fucking buttons queen shit

DUDE THE SPEAR THROW RIGHT JN ITS FUCKING FACE OH MY GOD

THEY DINT KNOW THAT JOYCE IS THERE OH SHIT this reunion is gonna make me cry with the slo mo

Okay but hopper at first not realizing what’s going on and then holding her back and smiling into the top of her head I’m freaking out

Okay but lowkey the look of (guys specifically) wearing long pants that aren’t fitted around the ankle and no shoes is one of my least favorite things ever and it always has been

THE KIDS

This is kinda cool with the gate in the ceiling and the mirrored shots of the trailer and the kids looking at the upside down gang

So he’s just manipulating el to get rid of the thing that makes him not lose his marbles

Cool

So it’s NOT how she got out okay nvm

El, You’re surprised?? I’m fucking not

That’s where she learned the ol’ neck snapper though

And he’s number one I fucking called it

Wait this is trippy with the rope going through the ceiling. Gravity’s about to get real weird

“Those stains are, uh, I don’t know what those stains are” KING SHIT

WHAT that’s so cool it’s sustained between them that’s awesome

Every time I see the Dio logo on the back of the denim vest I think it says Djo lol

WAIT WHAT THE FUCK

Oh christ the pool

This is so spicy for Nancy (imagine if it had been Steve though that would fuck to explore his guilt)

SO BARB WQS TAKEN BY VECNA???

Oh that’s some gross shit from the pool. Once again, I called the pool being filled with gross black shit in my powers!steve fic lol

No wait OF COURSE el hasn’t escaped yet this is like 1979 or some shit

He’s Vecna. #1 is totally Vecna

So is this why the upside down is always trying to kill 11? WAIT IN SAESON 3 BILLY/MINDFLAYER SAID HE WAS BUILDING AN ARMY FOR HER yeah it’s bc vecna is weirdly obsessed with her

Okay but what does the creep house have to do with vecna? Like why is it there that he set up shop and his psychic link is through that

OH THATS FUCKING WHY HES THE KID WHAT WHAT WHAT

Oh it’s all coming together

As a certified Spider Kid his obsession with these big fucking black widows is ????

“They, like me, are solitary creatures and deeply misunderstood. They are gods of our world.” GOD SHUP YOURE SO ANNOYING

He’s literally the worst. And people like this character??? He’s painful

He fucking SUCKS

You know most serial killers start out with animal cruelty

“She despised me for it.” NO SHE JUST REALIZES THAT YOURE A KILLER AND YOUVE GOT A FUCKED UP CIEW OF THE WORLD

This whole flashback is too much exposition tbh

Brenner did all those tattoos?? That’s lowkey impressive

This is big time fucked up

Those fucking slipper shoes are so weird just have them in socks or barefoot

001 to me is what billy is to the rest of the fandom

The way I absolutely can’t stand him

These last 20 have really lost me tbh

Oh GROSS

Not only did El essentially banish him to the UD she also skinned him

WHY does it look like he’s falling to super hell

THE REAL HORSE PLINKO

Knew it

[self-proclaimed-chaotic-good]

Somebody to Love | Steddie (4/?)

Chapter Four: Closure and Crushes

Word: 1505

A/N: Mostly platonic Steve and Nancy conversing. Steve accidentally comes out to her. Eddie is only mentioned in this chapter.

Summary: Eddie's part of the gang now and he's learning quickly what that means exactly. Meanwhile, Steve has finally come to terms of what he feels for a certain super senior and the gremlins that they both look after unwittingly gives the nudge that Steve needed to confront him.

[Somebody to Love Masterlist]

-

Life used to be so simple. Follow the crowd, be an asshole to feel better about yourself, get a sports scholarship, get into college, then graduate and follow in his father’s footsteps. Everything was about pleasing other people. Once he had set his sights on Nancy Wheeler, well, it messed with the status quo. She was considered a princess, a goody two-shoes, with perfect grades and perfect attendance. Totally not someone that the cool kids would want rolling with them.

While she tried to change herself to fit into his crowd, he found himself thinking of ways he could fit into her world. He was convinced that she was it for him. He went as far as imagining a future with her, a picture perfect large family filled with warmth and happiness and comfort. Thinking back on it now, he was forcing the image of Nancy in an idea that compensated for his stifling lonely and cold childhood, and that wasn’t fair to her. He was trying to fit into his version of what he imagined her world was and it was way off base.

Seeing Nancy finding her confident self, there was no way that she would be happy with that future. It was something that had stuck with him for a while and he just had to tell her. When he did, it felt like a weight was lifted from his shoulders, like he was finally leaving the past lingering feelings behind him. 

They finally sat down and talked when the dust settled and she was happy with how much he had grown. During one recent conversation, she expressed her hopes that he would be able to figure things out and find his own happiness. If he was still hung up on her, it would have left him feeling bitter, knowing that that happiness wouldn’t be her, but he was fine. His friends are his happiness right now and he told her as much. Besides, when he thought of his happiness, he also had someone else in mind.

“Remember, try not to deprive yourself of happiness just because you think you don’t deserve it,” she said as if reading his mind.

“That’s oddly specific,” Steve pointed out, narrowing his eyes at her.

She managed to look sheepish and smug at the same time. “It was something that Jonathan noticed for a while,” she admitted.

Steve rolled his eyes. “You know, I think those Byers have some kind of superpower. That, or we’re just raised by emotionally distant parents.”

“I think both.” She smiled. “It’s definitely easier and harder when he can read me so well. I just… feel so vulnerable yet so safe around him and he doesn’t take advantage of it. He… sorry, you probably don’t want to hear about all this.”

“You’re right. If you keep going, I think I’m going to start falling for him and steal him from you,” Steve said with a teasing smirk.

Nancy punched his arm lightly. “I’ve got a gun, Harrington. There’s no way you’re getting anywhere near him.”

He clutched his arm dramatically, like she broke it with a hard swing, making her giggle. It reminded him of how lighthearted things were between them. He felt like his age again and not someone that was forced to grow up too quickly.

“Like that’s going to deter me from my quest for love.” Oh, god, he was starting to talk like that shrimp, Dustin. He kept on going anyway. “ After that first punch that Jonathan gave me, I don’t know, it was doing something for me. Then, you with that gun and Eddie with that broken… bottle...” 

His eyes widened when his brain caught up to what his mouth had just admitted. Maybe she didn’t notice? Thank god her parents weren’t home yet. He didn’t know how he expected Nancy to react, but it wasn’t her knocking the wind out of his lungs as she hugged him with a wide smile. 

He hugged her back, breathing out a sigh of relief. She was okay with this, whatever it was. He didn’t have a definite label for himself and Robin assured him that he didn’t have to rush to figure it out. It was enough to know and be accepting of what he was feeling, that they were valid.

She pulled away, her small hands still on his arms. “How long have you known?”

He shrugged. “I think it’s been a long time, but I didn’t know what it was back then. I didn’t know that it was okay and, yeah, I guess now that I’ve got friends who actually like me for me, I feel more comfortable about it. But, I really did love you back then. All of that was true! I mean, I still love you, but not in the same way.”

“I believe you,” Nancy assured him, then smirked, “So… Eddie, huh?”

Steve groaned. He rolled his head back before dropping his head with a sigh. She could see that even his ears were tinted red. He didn’t anticipate him discussing his apparent new crush on a certain metalhead with his ex. Robin knew about it before he did and she was going to scream “Finally!” once he tells her. Calling it a crush made it feel more real and it made him giddy. 

He made a show of checking his watch before backing up to his car.  “Oh, look at the time. I gotta go and, um, pick up the children.”

“Mike’s literally in the car waiting for you with Dustin to drive them to Lucas’s,” she said as she crossed her arms. Curse her and her sharp attention to details.

“Yes, I have to do that. You know how cranky they can get. Bye! See you saturday!”

Nancy shook her head fondly at him as he fled to the car. Steve ignored Mike’s complaints as he started up the car, reversing quickly out of the Wheelers’ driveway. Once they were on the road, he drowned Mike’s voice out by turning on his radio. 

The heavy guitar riffs flooding out of his speakers made the younger boy shut up and the two kids exchanged a look. Since when did Steve Harrington listen to heavy metal? Well, since Eddie Munson gave him a couple of tapes to “improve his taste of music” on the same day as the party. They weren’t bad and the tapes that he gave Steve all reminded him of Eddie.

Dustin cleared his throat after they finished their quick stop for snacks at the store. “So, Steven -”

“Never call me that, Dusty bun.”

“Steve,” he quickly corrected himself, “Have you spoken to Eddie about using your place for DnD?”

Steve shrugged. “I thought you guys did that. I know some of the guys in the club detest me because of my douchebag era.”

Dustin waved that off. “Jeff and Frank are moving away once they graduate. Their parents weren’t so happy about them hanging out with Eddie because of that whole witch hunt against the Hellfire Club thing and they’ve been trying to sneak in band practice, but even that was pushing it. Gareth is a little more chill about it, but he’s going to wait it out until his parents cool down.”

“Eddie thinks it’s weird that you’re offering to host our campaign in your mansion,” Mike said bluntly.

“I think you should speak to him yourself about it. He’s been focused so much on graduating that we haven’t been able to talk to him or have a proper DnD session in ages. He doesn’t even spend time in the cafeteria anymore.”

“Yeah, he’s actually in the library or something with Robin or my sister.”

“Guys,” Steve said, pulling up to the Sinclair house, “We’ve got plenty of time to talk about it. Graduation is, like, two weeks away.”

“Talk to him now!”

Dustin sighed, speaking more calmly than Mike. “Can you at least check on him?”

“Okay, buddy.” He rubbed Dustin’s cap covered hair before bopping him. “Now scram!”

He waited until they scrambled into the house before he started pulling out of the driveway, heading straight for Eddie’s house. He hadn’t been to his place since the party, only seeing Eddie when he’d stop by Family Video or when he’s giving the kids a ride to and from school. Steve would nod and wave while Eddie forced a big smile on his face as he waved back. 

Steve couldn’t figure out why Eddie was acting weird like that all of a sudden and it left him wondering if he had done something back at the party to cause this distance. Or maybe it’s because now that he was closer to Nancy and Robin, there wasn’t anything else connecting them besides their mutual friends. Whatever it was, Steve would have to be the one to approach first. He’s only doing this for the boys, of course. Not that he missed Eddie or anything.

[dreams-in-blxck]

Fucking Valentine’s 🏹

Summary: you ask Bucky on a date for Valentine's but... it didn't went as planed.

Bucky x plus-size* female reader

*From now on everything that I (could) write will be plus size readers cause we are beautiful and deserve a super soldier to cuddle.

Warinigs: alcohol (not drunk tho), swearing, pure fluff, and I this that’s all.

WC: 1K

I had this thought while I was watching tiktok, those pov’s can get you thinking lol. This is just a silly little love story based in no other but Taylor Swift’s You belong to me. Hope you enjoy! Please reblog so more people can enjoy it!

FYI: English is not my first language, any mistakes im sorry I always get blocks when writing and I use preschool vocabulary, if anyone wants to edit it feel free to reach out, ill love you forever :)

Valentine’s Day was never something you used to care of, not even when you were with someone. You never really loved anyone, not romantically really. But as always something changed. A tall-handsome-beefy-mouthwatering super soldier stepped a foot in the compound. In the beginning he was like a lost puppy and you kind of understood him. Steve told you about him once they got back from Wakanda and fitting Thanos, but now Steve was gone. A new Captain America appeared and lost his tittle after killing a flag smasher.

You tried your best in the beginning to befriend him, which was hard but once he started talking and accepting help from Sam he opened to you too. He tried to talk to you as much as he could while he was away. Your friendship was something both of you could relay on, except for the fact that you had fall for him a while ago. And of course you didn’t tell him, but in defense you were thinking about all the different outcomes that could happen.

——————

It was February 10th and you decided you were going to ask Bucky on a date for valentines. He told you a while back how he find the dating situation odd in this century. So you made a plan to ask him and do everything in the compound since it was really lonely and sad lately. A cute but simple homemade dinner, some 40’s dancing, which you have to practice, and some cheese romcoms. Sadly Pepper came to the compound and ask you to come with her for some business she was wrapping up, and as her assistant you had to go.

——————

February 14th had arrived, it was not much after twelve so you reached the kitchen were you knew Bucky was at.

“Hi Buck” you said reaching the kitchen. He was looking for something in the fridge, a snack perhaps.

“Hey y/n. How it went down with Pepper?” He said grabbing a water bottle.

“It was fine, I mean I just go to grab her bag, she’s a super woman, I’m literally like a keychain” you snorted making him laugh.

You both went silent. “Hey Buck?” He looked at you, “I-uh I was wondering if you wouldliketogooutwithme” you let out so fast. “Sorry I- would you like to go on a date, today?” He raised his eyebrows mouth slightly open. “I- doll, I’m sorry, i already have a date, but- I would love next week, is that ok?” Your could literally feel your heart stop. “Yes. No problem Buck, I gotta go, i have some work” you tried your best not to let your emotion show as you basically sprinted out of there.

You spent the whole day in you room, sad movies on, a bottle of wine on your hand.

You heard went he left a few hours ago his cologne still on the air. You sighed sitting up. You were tired of being in you room so you moved to the open living room were you could see the city and some of the greenery, the sunset in full display in front of you. “Pathetic” you murmured. You used to give to shits about this day, it meant nothing to you. Now you were two second from crying but you were stronger you will not cry.

You were sitting on the floor, enjoying the view after you asked F.R.I.D.A.Y to play your sad playlist, eyes scanning the skyline. Meanwhile Bucky was defiantly not joying himself in the overcrowded restaurant. He realized everyone was just faking their happiness, the girl infront oh too. She was on her phone constantly, he assumed she was taking videos and photos to post later on her instagram, how fake. He didn’t even knew why he accepted to go out with him, not when he was going to ask you to have a date with him, but the gentleman in him screamed at him to not deny the girl. How stupid he was. “I’m so sorry Chrishell, I gotta go, its an emergency” he said after watching the hour in his phone, he needed to redeem his decision. She didn’t look happy at the sudden interruption. But he didn’t wait for her respond, he was already in his car.

____________

Another sip to the almos half-emptied bottle of wine took over your lips while some Taylor Swift’s song was playing. The sun already set. You stood up the wine making effect on your brain, you started to sing along, “Oh, I remember you driving to my house, in the middle of the night. I’m the one who makes you laugh when you know you're 'bout to cry” that damn verse always breaking you up. “And I know your favorite songs and you tell me 'bout your dreams. Think I know where you belong. Think I know it's with me” the song resembling to all those late nights when you comforted him, helped him, believed, and loved him. And then he had the audacity to go out with someone else, fucking asshole, you thought.

“Can't you see that I'm the one who understands you? Been here all along. So, why can't you see? You belong with me”.

“I do see y/n” you stopped singing, turning to face the voice. Face red and eyes wide. Thats was so embarrassing. “I- uh-”. “Don’t” he cut you off, “I was an idiot not to accept the date, doll. Would you forgive this stupid old man and please let me belong to you” he walked across the room to put his hands around you. You looked up to him, a beautiful smile appearing in your face making him smile to, you could only nod. You closed the distance finally fulfilling your fantasies, kissing him, your hands grabbing his cheeks and tip toeing in the process. He hugged you and lifted you making you stop kissing him and your eyes once again going wide, “I can handle you, im a super soldier” he winked, making you both laughed. What a fucking Valentine’s Day.

[agirlwhoisaphantom]

Our Yellow - Dad!Bucky Barnes x Reader

Summary: Baby Barnes's birthday is around the corner, and planning has been a bit stressful. But at the end of the day, everything goes to plan

Word Count: 3800

Warnings: Fluff, slight teasing

Author's Note: I would like to thank my lovely friend for making me write this. It was so much fun writing it. I'm a bit sad that these parts came to an end. I hope you all love this 3 part one shot as much as I did.

Part One: Turning Page

Part Two: To Build a Home

March 12, the day baby Barnes entered the world. Who would have thought baby Barnes would be born around Bucky’s birthday? Such a beautiful little boy with the same ocean blue eyes and brown hair that Bucky had. Leo was practically Bucky’s mini; they were both inseparable.

Bucky was always excited to go home, especially after long meetings and missions. He was always happy because he knew that his two bundles of joy would be there waiting for him. There would be days where he would arrive late at night, and he wanted to spend time with you and Leo, but he truly didn’t mind because he would catch you holding Leo in your arms fast asleep.

Crazy to think that it had been eight years that Bucky had met you. Suppose you were to ask him if he ever saw himself having a family of his own. He would rapidly answer no, but fast forward years later, who thought that he would have a family of his own with the girl he loved the most.

When you first met Bucky, it was an instant click. Your relationship with him rapidly increased. He was the most handsome guy you have ever met. Meanwhile, you were the most beautiful girl he ever laid his eyes on. You both weren’t ashamed of admitting to each other the feelings you both had for one another.

He wanted to know your story as much as you wanted to know his. It was difficult for you to tell him about the things you have been through, thinking that he would run away at any moment, but instead, he stayed and listened to all your demons. When he first asked you to listen to his story, he was unsure if he should. But you stayed and listened to every word he had to say; he appreciated you so much for not getting up and leaving.

It was nerve-racking for the rest of the Avengers to find out about your relationship with Bucky. You weren’t sure how they would react to you dating him. But when they noticed that you both had smiles on your face, your aura was radiant yellow, and there was nothing but pure happiness. They all knew that this was something you both deserved, especially after a long period of sadness you two had experienced.

Out of everyone, Steve was the happiest. He hadn’t seen his best friend be happy like this in such a long time. But now that you were in Bucky’s life, Steve was grateful. Steve was able to witness seeing Bucky get the happiness that he has always deserved.

There would be days where Bucky stayed up longer than you and Leo. Seeing you hold Leo in your arms brought him peace. He wishes he could go back in time to 2016 when Bucky was on the run in Bucharest and let that Bucky know that life does get better, and eventually, he will smile again and find the peace he is searching for.

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

A dream is a wish your heart makes

When you're fast asleep

In dreams you will lose your heartaches

Whatever you wish for, you keep

Have faith in your dreams, and someday

Walking down the hallway, Bucky was able to hear you sing Leo a lullaby. He tried to walk as quietly as he could, so he didn’t interrupt you nor try to wake him up. Leaning up against the door frame, he continued to listen to you singing and watched as you hold Leo in your arms. Your fingers were running through his hair, softly singing into his ear.

Your rainbow will come smiling through

No matter how your heart is grieving

If you keep on believing

The dream that you wish will come true

Leo was asleep in your arms. As you get up, Bucky gets near you. "Doll, I got him." he whispers gently, trying not to wake him up. You carefully hand him over to Bucky. Carrying Leo in his arms to his toddler bed, his little hand reaches out and holds one of his metal fingers as the rest of Bucky's hand rests against Leo's stomach. Placing him down onto his bed, Leo was fast asleep, but with a strong grip, he didn't want to let go of Bucky's metal finger. Bucky gently wiggles the finger out of his grip, making sure he didn't wake up.

You grab Bucky's hand and start quietly getting out of Leo's room. Gently closing the door, you pull Bucky towards the kitchen. He stops you from walking by rapidly pulling you in towards him and placing his hands around your waist. Leaning in forward to give you a brief kiss on your lips, "have I ever told you that you are the most beautiful, amazing mother" he smiles as he rubs his nose against yours.

You quietly chuckle and nod to his response "yes, honey. You tell me that every day," placing your hands on both his cheeks, "and you are a great daddy" you have a smirk on your face and slightly winked.

Without hesitation, his lips were pressed back to yours. His lips were warm and smooth as they brushed against your own. Your lips were parting to let his tongue explore your mouth and your tongue, feeling the pure pleasure of exploring his mouth. Even though you were craving more, you need to pull away. Pulling away, you place your index finger on his lips. "As much as we want more, we have work to do."

Leaning in forward, he moves your hair to the side, pressing his lips on your cheek and gently kissing you from your cheek to your ear, taking a nibble of it. "Do we have to? Tomorrow we can wake up early and work on it," he whispers in your ear and moving his lips from your ear to your neck.

"Yes, we have to, Bucky. I want his fifth birthday to be perfect" these types of kisses you were receiving were your weakness. It was hard for you to say no to him whenever he would tease you like this. "Please, can we work on this" your voice got soft and gentle.

Bucky stops nibbling on your neck and gives out a small grunt. "Fine, but we are waking up late" he places his hand on the back of your head and pulls you in so he can give you a brief forehead kiss.

Letting go of his embrace and turning around, your back was now facing Bucky as you walked towards the kitchen. You flipped your hair and softly chuckled "see, I can get whatever I want," you whispered loudly enough so Bucky could still hear you.

With his right hand, he slaps your ass. The slap was hard that it was a bit loud. If it weren't for the television noise in the background, you would have been worried if that would have woken up Leo.

Bucky places both of his hands on your waist, pulling you towards him. Leaning in forward, "Just you wait till Sunday, Darling, you'll be paying for every little tease you have done for the past week," he whispers into your ear, "okay, bunny." once again but this time gently slapping your ass.

1:35 AM

Blue or Red? Dinosaurs or Cars? Cake or Cupcakes? How many cups of coffee have you taken? Was Bucky already falling asleep? Even though the party was in two days, you wanted to make sure it perfect. As you turn the pages of your planning book, you notice the amount of crossing and pasting you have done for the past couple of days. The moment you thought you were almost done planning, ten other things were thrown at you.

It wasn't a big deal for everyone else besides you. You were worried that Leo wouldn't have any good memories to look back at when he was older. As you stare at the planner, your heart accelerates, hands get shaky as you wrap your arms around you.

Bucky noticed that you were slowly experiencing a panic attack. He gets up fast from the chair causes it to fall onto the ground. He turns your chair so that you can face him. Kneeling in front of you, "Doll, give me your hands" without a second thought, you agreed to give him your hands. "No matter what, Doll, Leo is going to love the party we are planning for him" he looks at you in your eyes; meanwhile, you were staring at how his thumbs moved against your skin. "Even if it's Cars that are Dinosaurs or Cars that are Dinosaurs. He is going to love it and create as many memories as possible" A soft chuckle escapes his mouth.

You take a big breath as you were slowly calming down. Bucky places his hand on your cheek and softly moves his thumb against your skin. "We should go to bed, it's nearly 2 in the morning, and we both are tired. We can work on this tomorrow," he says in a soft, gentle voice. He was right, it was already late, and you both needed some reason.

As soon as you both start walking to the bedroom, you can feel Bucky placing his arm on your back and his metal arm by your calves. He wanted to carry you to bed. You place your arms around his shoulders. He lifts you, now carrying you in a bridal position. He gives you a brief kiss on your forehead as you place your head on his shoulder.

He notices that you were sleeping in his arms. Bucky gently places you on the bed, covering you with the duvet. He goes back to the kitchen, grabs your planner, and starts adding and crossing things from your list. He works on it for an hour, finishing the last details. "Let's go to sleep, baby, please," you mumbled in your sleep, making it hard for him to hear you.

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

Five

“Dad, you are going to lose.”

Four

“I’m definitely not losing.”

Three

“My car is the fastest. You have a slow car.”

Two

“Are you sure about that, sport?” Bucky reaches Leo’s stomach and starts tickling him.

One

Leo tries to push Bucky’s hands. He was laughing uncontrollably. “Stop, Dad. You are cheating”

Zero

“And the Race Begins” Bucky was loud enough that you could hear him from the kitchen.

The cars go around the track two maybe three times. Laughter is shared between Leo and Bucky. Leo's car was in 1st place. Meanwhile, Bucky's car was in 2nd place. "I'm catching up" he had a small smirk on his face.

Leo had a concerned look, eyebrows knitting together and his lower lip forward "nope, no, you are not, dad." he chuckles a little.

Bucky's car was now in first place; meanwhile, Leo's was in second "ah. I'm ahead" there was a bit of excitement in his voice. "And dad pulls in, near to the finish line" Bucky was like a little kid all over again. He always made sure that Leo had a fun time whenever he was home.

Leo looks at Bucky with a concentrated look, squinting his eyes nearly shut. "oh, no," he shakes his head, keeping his eyes concentrated on Bucky. Moving his focus to the track, "I'm in the lead! I'm in the lead!" he screams in excitement. "See, I told you, dad, you have a slow car."

With the two cars close to one another. Leo's car crashes into Bucky's. "I'm the winner!" he gets up in excitement and jumps around. "I'm the winner, dad" he starts running around Bucky and the track. Bucky stops him from running around, picks him up, and places him on his back in a firearm position. He has a strong hold of him as he gets up and spins him around.

You were able to hear Leo's screams and laughter. This didn't feel real to you. It all felt like a dream. Hearing them laugh and have a great time brought you joy. As you finish making lunch, you can still hear them.

Bucky kneels so Leo can get down. As soon as Leo is down, he runs to his toy box and gets an unfinished paper snake that he and Bucky started making a few days ago, as well as painting materials. His little hands full of items, walking towards Bucky he would drop the items one by one and get every little piece he dropped "oops, dad, the snake, doesn't want to stay in place. It keeps falling," he pouts as he waddles with the materials, trying to balance himself.

"Throw the snake, and I'll catch it. Just bring the paint." he gently shouts at him. Leo throws the paper snake at him. Bucky inspects the snake, and he notices that it is nearly done. "Leo, we are almost done with this snake."

Leo forms a frown on his face. "It's not a snake, dad, it's a cobra," with a slight grin on his face "be careful, cause I'm going to make it bite you" a small evil giggle escapes his mouth. He gets the snake near Bucky's hand, making a slither noise as it gets near him "ahhh, dad, it bit you" he looks up at Bucky. "Ummm… now…umm… you are infected" he does the same evil giggle from earlier.

"oh no, ouch. Am I going to- "Bucky lays on the floor as he pretends that he just got poisoned.

Leo shakes him gently "dad, wake up, I found the medicine" he shakes him harder, trying to wake him up. Meanwhile, Bucky is trying his best to hold in his laughter. Leo gets up and jumps onto Bucky's torso. This takes his breath away, making him grunt slightly due to how hard Leo jumped. "yay! You are alive. We have to hurry. We don't have much time left" Leo had a concerned look on his face as he tried to 'save' his dad.

Once you finished placing the plates on the table, you decide you wanted to see what Bucky and Leo were doing. Leaning up against the door frame, you see Leo and Bucky sitting down on the floor, surrounded by art supplies and papers everywhere. It had seemed as if an art supply store had exploded.

"The medicine comes from the cobra's guts" He takes the rubber piece of the paper snake and pulls it out.

"Argh," both screamed at each other as they pulled the rubber band out.

Seeing them being goofs and not give a care in the world made you chuckle. This got Bucky's and Leo's attention, and they both wondered for how long you've been standing there. Bucky points at you with the biggest smile on his face.

"Oh, hi, mom. We killed the snake look." Leo rapidly gets the rubber band and throws it at you "now mom has all the guts," He and Bucky scream as the rubber band was launched at you.

Bucky gets up and runs towards you "oh no, we have to save her too" He picks you up and spins you around. Meanwhile, Leo was still screaming about the guts all over you in the background. "I love you, Mrs. Barnes" while he is still spinning you around, he pressed his lips against yours.

"Ewwww, mom, dad."

This made you and Bucky chuckle. Bucky, let's go of you and tackles Leo onto the pillows behind him.

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

Leo’s 5th birthday.

Who would think of thought that your little munchkin was going to be Five already, it feels like just yesterday you were changing his diapers. Being able to witness his first word, his first baby steps, his first anything. Made every cry worth it. Especially having such an amazing man by your side, helping each other every step of the way.

As you comb Leo’s hair, these thoughts go through your mind. He was your little man and seeing him grow every day made you sad yet so happy. “Mommy, I want the red shirt with cars on it” Leo interrupts your thoughts. A smile forms on your face, and you did a soft nose scrunch. Leo was always so independent, but he never hesitated to ask for help if he needed it.

Meanwhile, Sam, Steve, and Bucky were outside in the backyard trying to finish decorating the backyard. Bucky looks around. He wanted everything perfect.

Once you were done helping Leo get ready, he runs towards the backyard. He notices that Steve and Sam were there, and without hesitation, he ran towards Steve. He both loved his uncles and would get very excited whenever they were around.

Steve notices Leo running towards him. He lifts him and spins him around. “It’s my monkey’s birthday today.” Leo was practically screaming into Steve’s ear.

Letting Leo down, he was dizzy from all the spinning Steve had just done. He waddles, trying to keep his balance on his way towards Sam. Before he could make it, he falls. Just in time, Sam catches him. “Woah, be careful, champ” Leo couldn’t help but giggle at the fact he had just fallen.

“Hey, where is my hug?” Bucky reaches out his arms towards the direction that Leo is in.

Leo giggles a little and forms a frown on his face. “No, dad. You get a hug later” He wraps his arms around Sam and sticks his tongue out to Bucky.

“Ha, sucker. He loves me more” Sam raises his eyebrows and has a small smirk on his face.

Bucky crosses his arms and rolls his eyes. He walks towards Leo and grabs him, placing him on his right shoulder. Leo gently kicks and punches Bucky to let him down. As soon as Bucky was near the bouncing house, he throws Leo onto it. Leo was scared at first, but he knew deep down Bucky wouldn’t do anything to harm him. As soon Leo felt his body fall into the bouncy house, he bursts into laughter, so as Bucky.

Hours pass by, and everyone was here. Leo was playing with the rest of the kids, running around the whole backyard. Peter was chasing them with a water gun, getting them all wet. Leo and Peter were practically soaked. Bucky, Steve, and Sam were sitting together side by side. Leo decides to walk behind them and spray them with the water gun. After he did that, he runs towards Peter, hiding and giggling.

Sam got up immediately and grabbed the water gun that was on the table, spraying him. Bucky and Steve stayed seated as they both knew that Sam was going to go after Leo. After all, he did mess with Sam.

The moment Leo noticed the cake that Wanda was bringing. He runs towards the table, nearly almost tripping himself to get there. You sit on Leo’s left meanwhile Bucky sits on his right.

Happy Birthday to you

Happy Birthday Dear Leo

Bucky leans into whispers into Leo’s ear, “what did you wish for, champ?”

Leo looks at Bucky with a confused look. “I’m not telling you,” he shakes his head.

As Leo tries getting a bite from his cake, Bucky pushes his head onto it. Leaving Leo’s face full of cake. Without hesitation, Leo grabs the piece that his face landed on and shoves it onto Bucky’s face, rubbing it all over. Now Bucky and Leo were covered with blue and white frosting.

As you stare around, you notice Wanda staring at you with a ‘really’ expression on her face. You shrugged and a lopsided grin formed on your face. “I’m so sorry, Wanda,” you expressed using your lips. As you turn around to face Leo and Bucky, the cake was gone, not because everyone took a piece but because Bucky and Leo were covered in it. You were unsure if you should feel upset or just laugh at the fact that for the next few days, their faces were going to be stained.

Luckily, you had cupcakes in the fridge in case if this were to happen. You take a napkin and start wiping Leo’s face, hands, and clothes. You used the whole roll of paper towels on him. As soon as you went inside, you noticed Bucky trying to clean himself up. You get near him sliding your finger against his cheek grabbing a piece of cake. He turns around and looks at you. Meanwhile, you lick your finger seductively as you winked.

You turn around, Bucky grabs your hand and pulls you towards him. You were now able to see the smudges of icing on his face. He leans in forward to kiss you, but instead of kissing you, he rubs his face against yours. You had a smirk on your face as you rolled your eyes. He grabs your face, and with his tongue, he licks you from your chin to your nose to your forehead. Trying to remove as much frosting he just put on your face. “Hmm, that tasted good” there is a small pause as he licks your cheek. “I can’t wait for later tonight,” he whispers into your ear.

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

It was already nighttime. Leo crashed on the couch holding his new favorite Iron Man Plush that Tony decided to gift him. Bucky picks him up and cradles him in his arms.

You decide to put on music, so time goes by faster, and you can finally finish semi-cleaning.

Yes, you're lovely, with your smile so warm

And your cheeks so soft

There is nothing for me but to love you

And the way you look tonight

You start feeling the music, and you close your eyes for a sec. Bucky leans on the entrance of the living room, watching you as you sway to the music with a smile on his face. He comes up from behind, wraps his arms around your waist, and starts swaying with you. You both were in sync. “I’m the luckiest person on this planet. Having you by my side has been a blessing, doll,” He whispers into your ear. He turns you around, and you were now facing him. You had a smile, and your eyes sparkled as the light hit your face “god, I can’t get over how beautiful you are” He leans in to kiss you.

You put your head on his chest, wrapping your arms around his shoulders. and you both continue to dance to the music “Bucky?” you pause for a minute listening to the music. “I think it’s time.”

“Are you sure, doll?” his voice gets soft. You look up towards him and give him a nod. “Okay, but this time let’s make our princess” He turns his head and softly kisses your head.

[thestorycfus]

The Sweetest Apparition - Part 3

Pairing: Peggy Carter x fem!Reader

Summary: Reader is a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent and historian who specializes in the life and legacy of Captain Carter. After Nick Fury uses the Tesseract to bring Peggy back, the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. contacts the reader to help her navigate life in the XXI century.

Warnings and notes: Food, mentions of Steggy, mentions of Stucky, very small mentions of war. Other characters are also mentioned. This got way longer than the first two parts, but there’s also way more Peggy here. This series takes place after the last scene of What If… episode one, including spoilers to that episode. Reader uses she/her pronouns.

Word count: 2,304

Series Masterlist

It should be a short walk to your apartment, but you made a small stop each time Captain Carter was curious about something. You also got some take out on the way, making sure to pick at least four different options from separate places and a couple of desserts too, since you didn’t know her taste yet. It was a while before you made it to your street.

During the entire time, your chatting was limited to safe topics - how loud and bright the city was, how many screens there were, the amount of coffee options that existed now. You watched Carter fall in love with her caramel coffee and made a mental note to buy her more sweets.

Soon, the Captain would also need to go shopping. Fury had gotten her the formal white blouse and the black pants she wore now, an outfit much more discreet than the uniform she was wearing when she fell, but that was her entire wardrobe at the moment. That was another mission you should handle, but it could wait until after lunch.

When you finally got home, you placed the food over a kitchen counter and gave Carter a quick tour of the apartment. It wasn’t much, but hopefully it would be enough for both of you until she was more familiar with this century. The tour ended where it started: in your tiny kitchen. You pulled a stool for the Captain and presented her with the options for lunch.

“I suppose you’ve never tried some of those, so I got a few different meals. Burritos, sweet and sour chicken, calzones and Pad Thai. For dessert, there’s lemon tart and triple chocolate cake. I might have gotten a little carried away.”

Peggy took a seat and examined her options. You wondered if that would be, technically her first meal since the 40’s.

“They are all tempting, but I might start with this one.” Her eyes were fixated on a burrito as if it was the Holy Grail. Yeah, that was surely the first time she ate in seventy years. She dove in, so focused on her meal that you didn’t dare to interrupt. Meanwhile, you took the other stool and picked a calzone, eating it while you watched Carter.

You were still trying to wrap your head around the fact that she was really here, and it was surprising that you hadn’t completely freaked out so far, but the prospect of the rest of the day started to worry you. The Captain would certainly have a lot of questions and, if there were inquiries that Fury left for you to answer, they probably pertained more to her personal life than to great historical events.

If the registers about her were right, it wouldn’t be long before the real conversation started. Peggy Carter was too smart to have such a debate in the middle of the street, but she wasn’t known for stalling. As soon as she finished her meal, in the privacy of your (now shared) kitchen, you would have to provide about seven decades of answers.

Before you could try to prepare yourself, she was done with her second burrito. You almost suggested dessert, but the look she gave you left no room for pauses. Carter turned on her stool to face you directly, her posture becoming straighter and her eyes never leaving yours. She was the perfect image of Captain Carter, the hero, the legend who defeated all odds. Still, when she spoke, there was softness in her voice.

“The meal was lovely and so is the apartment. I can’t thank you enough for you kindness, Agent L/N, but I must ask a few things more of you. If you have studied about my life, you must know what happened to Steve Rogers after I was gone.”

You should be ready for that. Of course her first personal concern would be about Rogers. His story with Carter went down in history as a tragic tale of love, bravery and loss. To his last days, Rogers had made it his mission to honor her legacy, but that wasn’t all that he did. How do you tell a person that the love of her life went on to live a decades long, fulfilling relationship with someone else, even though, from her perspective, they were together the day before?

“Please, call me Y/N. And you can ask anything, Captain. I will tell you everything I can.” You took a deep breath, going through the words in your head in search of the best way to let her know. It was best to keep nothing out. Carter deserved that. “Steve Rogers continued to serve as the Hydra Stomper until the war had ended and all known Hydra operations had been eliminated. After that, he stepped out of the suit so that Howard Stark could continue his research with the Tesseract. I believe neither of them ever gave up on bringing you back, but, in many ways, they also moved on to build new lives.”

You made a small pause, in case she wanted to say something, but Carter only gave you a nod, encouraging you to continue. It was impossible to look away from her eyes, or to keep anything hidden when she stared at you with such intensity. Even in silence, sitting still, she emanated a power that kept you talking.

“A few years after the war, Rogers and Stark started an intelligence agency to keep the world safe from threats we could barely understand. They named it S.H.I.E.L.D., because of you. That is the agency I work for, directed by Nick Fury.” There was something poetic in the way that same agency ended up being the reason Peggy Carter was back, but it wasn’t your place to point that out. “Rogers never stopped fighting, even without the suit. He was a legendary agent, working along with James Barnes until they retired. They were also together for the rest of their lives.”

That was the piece of information you feared would break Carter’s heart, but she had a bright smile after hearing that.

“That suits them. All of them.” The joy in her voice sounded so sincere, and you couldn’t help but ask.

“Were you and Rogers… Together? It is said so in the official files, but…” In your studies, you sometimes wondered if their relationship was just a myth, maybe a publicity stunt to humanize the fallen super soldier. It was your job to question the data, but you had never paid that possibility much attention until now.

Instead of being offended by your invasion of her privacy, Carter laughed so lightly and freely that you felt your cheeks getting warm.

“Oh, darling, Steve Rogers had a heart too big to have only one soul mate. He was the love of my life, yes, and I was the love of his, but not the only one. A love so beautiful and dedicated is supposed to be shared. Of course I’m sad I didn’t get to share the rest of his life with him, but I’m relieved to know that he and Bucky had each other. And that’s not to say I’m a being of such virtue that I’m above jealousy. I felt jealous of Steve alright, many times, but I could never be jealous of him with Buck. They fit well together and they were good for each other. They were real, just as Steve and I were. Steve deserved to be loved through a lifetime. I’m grateful that he was.”

Carter’s eyes shined with tears, but she didn’t allow any to fall. Maybe she would let herself grief for the lost possibilities later, but for now she was handling such an emotional journey with more elegance than you thought possible. It didn’t seem to be an act at all. On the contrary, what touched you the most was the honesty in her words. That selflessness of being genuinely happy to hear of how her soul mate lived on without her, in love with someone else, told you more about Peggy Carter than any history book ever had. And that’s how she reacted right after being thrown into the next century, coming directly from a war and landing in a world she didn’t recognize.

“I don’t think history ever made you justice, Captain. The general public thinks of you as a hero, but they’re so far from knowing the person behind the suit... You know, it’s very nice to meet you.” You couldn’t help but sharing a bit of what was on your mind. To that moment, your hero was turning out to be even better than your daydreams, and it was only fair to let her know so.

At that, she gave you a big smile and your heart skipped a beat. You would have a hard time sharing an apartment with this woman.

“You are far too kind to me. To be honest, they never showed much interest on me, suit or not, until I went against official orders and started throwing tanks around and fighting the battles that needed to be fought. I am more concerned about what I am able to achieve, regardless of how they will see me. And there’s no need to call me Captain, Y/N. Heavens, we live and work together now and you’re my guide to modern life. Peggy is fine. And it’s nice to meet you too.” She took the initiative to get a slice of chocolate cake, already making herself at home. You had the feeling that her adaptation to this world wouldn’t be too difficult, all things considered. Peggy Carter would take whatever she was given and make more of it than anyone imagined possible.

“As you wish, Peggy. Speaking of that, there’s a lot I think you’ll like to see about life now. What else are you curious about?” You took your own slice of cake, trying to feel at ease in this conversation. You couldn’t be on high alert whenever Carter was around if she was going to be around all the time, but that was easier said than done. Your responsibilities here were enormous and, to be frank, you were determined to be your best self and impress her, even if just a bit. Maybe telling her about the wonders of nowadays technology would do the trick.

“I am curious about everything. I can’t wait to know all about the development of science, or what I missed in seven decades of sociopolitical turmoil, but there’s one more person I’d love to hear about before we get to that. You mentioned Howard moving on with his life, didn’t you? What exactly was that little menace up to while I was gone?”

Now, that was a rich topic of conversation.

“Well, Stark continued his research with the Tesseract and with many other projects, sometimes along with the US government, and he built a billionaire empire. Weapons, all sorts of technology, wild parties. The man had everything. He has a son, Tony, who inherited the tech, the money and the brains, but with a stronger inclination to heroism. You see, Tony Stark built himself a supersuit, partially inspired by his father’s Hydra Stomper, but with a larger variety of uses. It’s said that Steve Rogers was a sort of mentor to him, but I couldn’t get Stark to talk a lot about it when I interviewed him.”

You couldn’t tell which part made Peggy more excited. She nodded along as you listed Howard Stark’s achievements, as if it was all expected, and her eyes got wider when you told her about his son. When you mentioned Rogers, she almost jumped in her seat. She was already invested, but dropping that name sealed the deal.

“Fury gave me this.” She took two business cards out of her pocket. “It has his telephone number and Barton’s too. Could I use your telephone to call him? I would like to meet this Tony Stark, and I bet Fury would be able to reach him.” 

Giving Director Fury a call from your cellphone felt strange, but how could you deny Peggy that? If the Director gave her the number, he wanted her to be able to reach him, right? 

Instead of dialing yourself, you showed Carter how to use the phone. She looked like a kid on Christmas whenever she was given access to new technology. You would make sure she got a cellphone of her own soon so you could show her everything the device could do. 

She called Fury and you waited as they talked for less than two minutes. Peggy handed you the phone when she was done, with a smile that said she got what she wanted.

“So, what did the Director say?” You asked, anxious to know the outcome of the call.

“We’re meeting Tony Stark tomorrow at 2pm in his tower. Was it him who named it Stark tower or is that Howard’s doing?” She narrowed her eyes a bit, still smiling.

“The tower was built by Tony, so I think we can’t blame Howard for that one.” You joked. “Are you meeting Fury at S.H.I.E.L.D. before you two go to Stark’s?”

“Oh, Fury is not going. He booked the meeting for you and me, if you would like to accompany me.” Peggy sounded hesitant, as if she had just considered that you might not want to join her on that plan. 

"You’re asking me if I wish to be there when Captain Carter meets Tony Stark? Please, if I didn’t get the chance to be a part of that exchange, I would beg you for a detailed retelling as soon as you got home.” 

Your reply made Peggy laugh once more, and you were getting used to that sound very quickly.

[just-dreaming-marvel]

Out Of Time ~ 108

MASTERLIST

< previous chapter

Word Count: 1,800ish (I know this is sorter, sorry... it’s just the way things were working out.)

Summary: Start of Captain America: Civil War

The months went by fast and before anyone knew it, it was May 2016. Y/N was at the Tower, nervously watching the news. The new team had gone on a mission to Lagos, where Rumlow, now going as Crossbones, assaulted the Institute for Infectious Disease. He detonated a suicide bomb, in which Wanda tried to contain. Unfortunately, the explosion damages a building, killing civilians. 

Meanwhile, Tony was at MIT, giving a speech, introducing his new invention BARF, and introducing the September Foundation Grant. Y/N hadn’t heard from him, which made her nervous as well. She jumped in surprise when her phone began ringing, she quickly answered it.

“Nat?” She said. “How is everyone? Are you all okay?”

“He needs you,” Natasha responded.

“Where are you?” 

“I’m outside the training room in the facility.”

Y/N quickly hung up and appeared next to Natasha through a portal.

“I saw the news. It’s bad. They’re putting all the blame on Wanda. Is that why he’s in there?”

“No,” Nat shook her head. “Rumlow mentioned Bucky.”

“What? W-wh-what did he say?”

“That Bucky knew you, knew the both of you. That, after we discovered the truth in DC, he remembered the two of you.” Tears filled Y/N’s eyes. “Rumlow teased that his brain was put back in the blender.”

“No.” Y/N looked up, trying to stop the tears. “I can’t go in there like this… it’s no help to him.”

“Take your time.” Natasha rubbed Y/N’s arm. “I just felt you were the only one who could understand.”

“No, thanks, Nat. Seriously.” Y/N turned towards the door, taking a deep breath. “I can do this.”

She quietly entered the training room. Steve was in the middle, taking his feelings out on a punching bag. Looking around, Y/N could see three new ones laying behind him and, what she guessed to be, about five bags torn to shreds around him. She carefully walked over.

“Steve,” she called calmly, only to be ignored. “Steve… Stevie.” She sighed. “Nat told me what happened.”

“I let him get to me,” Steve grunted. “That shouldn’t have happened.”

“Rumlow was playing you, Steve. It’s not your fault. He just knew right where it hurt… it would have gotten me too…” 

“I don’t know whether or not to believe him… did he really remember us?”

“It’s not your fault, Steve. There’s nothing you could have done then to save Bucky.”

“I could have fought harder for him to remember.”

“And then what? He probably would have ran anyway, Stevie. We don’t know how that was going to play out… can you stop that for one second and look at me?” With a huff, Steve did as he was told. Y/N walked up and rested her hands on his face. “None of this is your fault. What happened with Bucky or Lagos.”

“But I’m the Captain. It’s my responsibility to—“

“Yes, you are the Captain but you are also on a team, Stevie. And teams take the hits together… it was cruel for Rumlow to mention Bucky. So very, very cruel… Please don’t carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. I already have one man in my life that insists on doing that. I really don’t know if I can have two.”

“I’m sorry, Y/N.” Steve wrapped Y/N in his arms and pulled her into him. “Thank you for coming.”

“You should be thanking Nat for calling me.” 

“Will do.”

~~~

Y/N spent the rest of the day with the team. Wanda seemed to be taking it the hardest but was allowing anyone to help. Y/N frequently called Tony, only to be immediately sent to voicemail every time. This only made her grow more and more worried until she eventually left the facility, going back to the Tower. It was just after midnight. 

“Tony?” She called, searching the bedroom. “Babe?” When Tony was nowhere to be find in there, she sighed. “FRIDAY?”

“Boss is in the lab.”

“I should have looked there first.” She shook her head as she started walking to the lab. “How is he FRI?”

“Not very well. I have been making sure he doesn’t do anything drastic.”

“Thanks.”

Outside the lab, it was quiet and Y/N could tell that the only light on was the light above Tony’s table. She took a deep breath before entering the lab. Tony was hunched over his table, working on a watch.

“Hey, Tony,” Y/N greeted. “How was the speech?”

“Fine,” he replied, monotone.”

“Just fine. I’m sure you killed it.” 

She went to wrap her arms around him from behind. Tony quickly shrugged her off.

“I just want to be left alone right now.”

“Tony—“

“Please.”

“How about I sit next to you and—“

Tony slammed what he was working on down on the table. “Damn it, Y/N! I said I want to be left alone!”

When he turned to look at her, his anger quickly turned to guilt at the sight before him. Y/N had taken a step back, a few tears were escaping her eyes, and she was shaking slightly. He felt his heart sink to his feet.

“Y/N, I—“ He tried to reach out to her but she stepped back and through a portal. “Damn it!” He slammed his fist against the table. “Damn it…”

~~~

“Honey,” Tony gently knocked on their bedroom door. “Can I come in?” 

No response. He groaned and rested his head against the door when he tried the knob and realized it was locked. 

“Honey?” He called again. “I’m sorry."

“Miss Rogers as requested to be alone right now,” FRIDAY stated.

“Shit… I’ve really done it this time.”

“Yes, you have Boss.”

“Can you at least tell me what she’s doing in there?”

“When she first arrived, she was sobbing into her pillow. Now, she’s grabbed yours and is curled up in the middle of the bed.”

“Honey, please,” he tried again. “I won’t try anything. I just want to apologize.” 

The door suddenly clicked, allowing Tony to open it. He quickly slipped inside and shut the door behind him before she could change her mind. Stepping closer to the bed, he saw Y/N curled up, as FRIDAY had said, facing away from him.

“Honey, I am so sorry… I should have never snapped at you the way I did. I… I’m so sorry.”

“I was only trying to help,” she whispered, voice cracking. “That’s all I’ve been doing all day… it’s exhausting…” Tony sat down on the edge of the bed. “The mission didn’t go well, so they called me in the talk down, Steve. And Wanda’s struggling with it and then I called and called and you never answered. When I come home to help, you snap at me…”

“You didn’t deserve that, Y/N.” Tony shook his head, resting them in his hands as he leaned forward. “The speech went good, the kids were all excited. It was after… once I had walked off stage…” Tony sighed and Y/N turned to face him. “People die… we try to save everybody, but we never can…”

“That’s not our fault, Tony. It’s not your fault.”

“But it is. We need to try harder. Do better. We can’t continue on like this. Something needs to change.”

Y/N sat up and scooted closer to Tony, still holding onto his pillow.

“It was a mother,” Tony continued quietly. “She came up to me after the speech…. Her son, Charlie Spencer, died in Sokovia…. We murdered him… a building was dropped on him…”

“We had no control over that.” She moved closer. “Do you understand? You had no control over it.” She slowly reached out and entangled her fingers with his. “It’s our job to save the day and, sadly, somedays that doesn’t mean everyone.”

Tony brought her hand up and held a kiss to the back of it. “I’m so sorry,” he mumbled against it, placing other kiss. “I should have just talked instead of act out.”

“Nobody’s perfect, Tony. We all make mistakes. The thing about mistakes though, is we need to keep trying harder after.”

“I don’t deserve you.”

Y/N leaned in and gave him a kiss. “I’m sorry, Tony. But I don’t believe that.” She kissed him again, harder, pouring more of her love into it. “I’m exactly what you need.”

~~~

Five Weeks Later…

Y/N kept going from pacing to sitting on the edge of her bed, knee bouncing. Her thumb was almost permanently placed at the edge of her mouth as she nervously bit at her nail. She was running every possibility of how this could happen, but every one led to the same conclusion. Which only made her more nervous.

For the past week, she had woken up nauseous. She spent most of the mornings sitting near the toilet. This morning, while sitting on the bathroom floor, she realized that she was late. Y/N was shaking when she took the test. Thankfully, and not so thankfully, Tony had bought a few, just in case.

When the timer went off, she froze. Her heart rate picked up as she willed her feet to move towards the bathroom counter, where the test was taunting her. Clenching her eyes shut, Y/N moved her head to hover right over the test.

“Okay, okay…” she whispered to herself. “You can do this Y/N… just open your eyes… you and Tony will deal with, or not deal with, whatever the results are… okay…” Y/N took a deep breath. “Okay…”

She opened her eyes, breath catching as she read the stick.

Positive.

“Okay… Okay… That’s… different…. Yeah, definitely different.” She suddenly started laughing, tears forming. “I’m pregnant. I’m pregnant.”

“Miss,” FRIDAY called. “I’ve been asked to inform you that Secretary of State, Thaddeus Ross, is here. The others have already assembled in the conference room, waiting for you.”

“Tell them I’m on my way.”

“Of course.”

Y/N quickly hid the evidence, so that Tony didn’t have a chance of finding it before she had a chance to tell him. She didn’t really know how to feel or if she even wanted this baby. But she knew that whatever she decided, Tony would support her. There wasn’t anytime for worrying about it now, or celebrating, she was needed in the meeting. So, she stuffed the evidence in the furthest corner of the drawer she knew Tony never looked in and rushed down the conference room, wondering what the Secretary of State could possibly want.

next chapter >

NOTES: from now on the taglist when be added by a reblog. I will reblog it using my second account, @just-dreaming-marvel-2​. Just so that my main page doesn’t get too cluttered.

If you want to be added to the tag list, please dm me or send in an ask.

[goddessofmischief]

Could I please request where reader has her own place in Hawkins and after the events at star court, steve asks her if he can spend the night? And he stays with her and it’s just cute and fluffy and he spends the whole night cuddling and reassuring her that they’re both safe and okay? Thank you!

Grown-Ups - Steve Harrington x Reader

You were so much better than him.

You were clever, and almost never scared. You never faltered, not even once. Steve could trust you, and he had.

He trusted you with his life, on more than one occasion.

And despite all that the two of you had been through together, he knew he wasn’t right for you.

You didn’t want to stay in Hawkins - scratch that, you didn’t deserve to stay in Hawkins.

You were Nancy’s brilliant friend, the prom queen with a heart of gold. If you wanted to go pursue modeling opportunities in California, who was he to stop you? He, at present time, was an idiot in a sailor suit - meanwhile, you were an adult, now. You lived alone, and you didn’t have to take a summer job, because you’d worked all of high school.

And, besides. You’d gotten into college. And you were going, too - after the summer ended. You were almost gone. In a month, he would lose you forever. To success, and opportunity, and fame, and fortune, and new people who deserved you more than he did.

In short, you weren’t a loser.

Not like him.

But you were different right now.

Steve could understand why, of course. You’d spent the whole night being terrorized by the Mind Flayer, your best chance at protection being your sailor-suited boyfriend. Your odds of survival were grim, at best.

And yet, you’d survived.

You didn’t look any better, though. Your breathing was short and choppy, your eyes darting from side-to-side, unable to focus on anything, even him. He’d spent so much effort trying to reassure Dustin, Steve had forgotten to worry about you, and that wasn’t fair.

But you were, well, you. You would never accept help, especially if you thought it was because someone felt bad for you. You were proud. Steve had to be smart - stealthy, like a ninja.

“Y/N,” he whispers, quietly, trying to gain your attention, and he puts his thumb under your chin, tilting your face up to his. “Hey, Y/N-” Your eyes focus on his.

“’M, okay, Steve,” you mumble, shoving his hand away, almost drunkenly. “I know you’re okay, I’m not. I’m not.” Your eyebrows furrow together and you attempt, for your boyfriend’s sake, to focus on him.

“Steve,” you whisper, taking his hands in yours. “What do you want me to do?” He shrugs, and if you’d been able to focus, you would have seen the gears turning in his brain.

“Can I stay with you tonight? Please? I’m just... the kids are fine, they’ve got Nance, and I’m worn out-”

You cut him off with a gentle, unbruising kiss.

...

“So,” you said, unlocking the door and ushering him in, “This is where the magic happens... don’t tell Robin I said that, okay? She’d laugh me out of Hawkins.”

Steve crossed his heart.

“Scout’s honor.” You mustered a grin, flopping down on the bed.

“Can I get you something?” you asked, standing up, still worried about Steve. “Tea, or soda? I haven’t got that much, I haven’t really stocked the place, ‘cause-” “No, it makes sense. You’re leaving in a month.”

You swallowed.

In all the thinking you’d done about going to California, you realized, quietly, you hadn’t thought very much about Steve.

Which wasn’t fair - to him, or to you. You loved Steve. He was the greatest boyfriend you could have asked for - so maybe you shouldn’t have been treating this like a long term relationship if it wouldn’t get the chance to be one.

“Never mind me,” Steve said, interrupting your thoughts. “Maybe you should sit down-”

“I don’t need to sit down. I’m fine.” “Y/N, I know you’re freaked out, it’s okay-” “Stop it!” you shouted, shoving him away. “Stop acting like it’s okay, because it’s not okay! This isn’t okay!”

“Yeah, the Mind Flayer just attacked us, it’s a lot to handle-”

“No, I mean us,” you said, and you watched Steve’s heart shatter into a thousand pieces. “Us. We’re not okay.”

Stupid Steve Harrington.

"What d’you mean... us? I love you, Y/N. And... I kinda think you love me. Right?” He exhaled, looking you in the eyes.

“Please tell me I’m right.” “You’re right,” you admitted, and relief flooded his expression. “But... Steve, I’m leaving in a month. Leaving. Forever. I don’t think either of us really get that.”

“I get it, Y/N. Trust me. I get it. And... if you don’t want me around anymore... I understand. I won’t get in the way. But if you do want me... baby, I promise, I’m not going anywhere. Ever.”

Stunned, you sat down on the bed, and Steve sat beside you, quietly.

It was the first quiet moment you’d had for... awhile.

Since the horrors began. The nightmares.

And suddenly, it was all too much for you, all at once - and your body collapsed, sobbing, your panic attack tightening, painfully, into an ache in your chest.

Steve held his arms out, and you fell into them. “Do you want me to go?” he asked you, quietly. “You gotta tell me, Y/N-” “No,” you sobbed, burying your face in his shoulder. “No, I want you to stay forever-” He nodded.

“I was so scared,” you cried. “I thought you were gone. I thought I was gonna die, and I thought you were already dead, and-”

“Hey, hey-”

Steve held your face in his hands, and looked you in the eyes.

“I’m here,” he said. “We’re alive. You and me. It’s you and me. Okay?”

You nodded.

“Oh, God, Steve,” you said, after a moment. “I’m sorry. About California, about everything-”

He shook his head.

“Hey, don’t be sorry. It’s not your fault you had to go and grow up on me. One of us had to, I guess.”

“You could. If you wanted to.” “I think it might be too late for me, Y/N/N.”

“No,” you insisted. “Come with me. California. We’ll go together.”

Steve cleared his throat.

“You re-a-a-lly want me to?” “Yes.”

“Sure you couldn’t find a surfer to fill my place? I’m replaceable, you know-”

“Steve!”

[angstysebfan]

What’s Done is Done - Part 2

Pairing: Bucky x reader

Requested by: @joannie95

--

It’s been 3 months since you moved out of the tower. You still went on missions with the team, and would go there to train during the week, but other than that, you stayed far away. Wanda and Nat would meet up with you for girls nights, and you would hang out with Sam frequently, but all out of the tower. You didn’t know this, but Bucky was miserable not seeing you. The only times he got a chance was briefings and a few missions. You begged Steve and Tony to keep you on separate missions, unless the whole team was needed. 

The whole team gave Bucky the riot act after you moved out. He knew what he did was stupid, but he just couldn’t understand how a beautiful and kind woman such as yourself could love him. You had helped relieve the nightmares, but after a mission where you were being openly threatened to get a reaction out of him, he just didn’t know what else to do. He thought you would break it off after being threatened because of him, but no. You told him it wasn’t his fault, which just made the guilt even worse.

He knows he went about things all wrong, and he knows the longer he waits, the worse things will be. However, out of respect for you, no one will tell him where you are. Even FRIDAY is keeping it confidential. He tries to follow his friends, but it’s like they know he would be doing it and make sure that they don’t go near you. He just wants to apologize and beg on his knees for forgiveness. He is lying on his bed on morning thinking of begging Steve for information when there is a knock on his door.

After alerting the person they can come in, Sam enters with an annoyed expression. “Listen, Y/N is coming to the tower today. This is the first time he is coming to hang out with the team, and you better not ruin it. You have done enough. Got it?” he sneers at Bucky. Bucky sighs, “Sam, I told you everything. I want to apologize to her. I get it if she won’t take me back. Just please let me apologize to her,” Bucky begs. 

Sam shakes his head, “If she lets you then fine. But don’t be afraid if she doesn’t. She is finally getting back to her old self,” Sam says before leaving the room. Bucky quickly flies out of bed to shower and change. He makes sure to wear your favorite shirt of his, hoping that will get your attention. He heads out to the common room and hears everyone talking. His heart pounds when he hears your voice, but quickly drops when he hears what you announce to the room.

“Everyone, this is my boyfriend Tommy,” you say with a large smile, while holding Tommy’s hand. Sam gets up and shakes Tommy’s hand as he looks behind him to see Bucky’s fallen expression. Although Sam is pissed at Bucky, he somewhat feels for the guy, but then thinks he deserves it. You continue to make introductions with the team before you finally turn around and see Bucky. Tommy looks up at the man, not realizing who he is and goes to shake his hand. “Uh... Tommy, this is... Sergeant Barnes,” you say nonchalantly. 

Bucky looks at you when you address him with his title, and his heart breaks slightly more, but he knows he deserves this and more, so he keeps his mouth shut and jealousy pools throughout him. Bucky shakes Tommy’s hand, and makes sure to squeeze just a little too hard, which makes Tommy flinch. You pull Tommy away and into the common room with the rest of the team, hoping Bucky will just leave, but of course he doesn’t.

The team is asking how you guys met, and how long you had been dating. Suddenly Bucky’s voice pops up, “So... have you fucked yet?” he asks. You look at him with wide eyes. Tommy clears his throat, “Uh... that’s kinda personal Sergeant Barnes,” he says, looking at you. You squeeze Tommy’s hand, trying to tell him to ignore him. “Well if you need pointers, I know all the things Y/N likes in the bedroom so,” Bucky says like he is talking about the weather.

“Bucky!” you yell. He just shrugs his shoulders like he hasn’t said anything wrong. “Tommy, please ignore him. He is an asshole,” you say glaring at Bucky. He gives you innocent eyes, and you can’t help but want to laugh because he looks adorable, but you shake your thoughts away. “Well, maybe we should just go, if this is how today is going to go,” you say standing up. You hear the group begging you to stay and yelling at Bucky. “Doll, I’m sorry. I’ll stop,” he says with pleading eyes.

You nod and sit back down, getting back into easy conversation with the team, trying to ignore Bucky. You kept looking over at him and he would give you a small smile each time, that would make butterflies form in your stomach. You scold yourself because he hurt you so damn bad, but your reaction to him cannot be helped. Especially since he is wearing your favorite shirt. You love the way it fits on him, showing all his bulging muscles. It’s like he did that on purpose, but you know he doesn’t care about you.

After spending the afternoon, you and Tommy take your leave. You say goodbye to your friends and are heading out when you feel a tap on your shoulder. You turn around to see Bucky, “Uh... I was hoping maybe we could talk.” You shake your head, “I... I don’t think I’m ready to talk Bucky. Don’t you have a date with some slut or something to get to?” you ask before going to walk away. Bucky grabs your arm, “If you think that man could ever make you feel the way I make you feel, you are only joking yourself,” he says in a jealous rage. 

You yank your arm away, “You’re right. He doesn’t make me feel the way you did. He is so much better,” you say before walking away. Bucky just stares at you, wanting to run after you. He didn’t mean the talk to go that way, but his jealousy got the best of him. Sam glares at him as he walks past, “Told ya not to get your hopes up Barnes,” he says before walking away.

--

A big mission came up a few weeks later. The whole team was brought it, which you hated because that meant Bucky was going to be there. You did your best to just ignore his existence and focus on what Steve and Tony were saying, but you felt his eyes on you. Once the briefing was over, you go get dressed in your kevlar suite and start grabbing all your weapons before heading to the quinjet.

You make sure to sit on the opposite side of the jet from Bucky, getting yourself psyched for the mission. Nat walks over to you, “You doing alright?” she asks. You look at her and smile, “It’s my job, I’ll be fine,” you respond. She nods and walks up to the pilot seat as Sam walks over, “If you want I’ll shoot him from the sky and say it was an accident,” he says making you laugh. “No, it’s ok Sammy. I’ll be fine,” you say giving him a hug. 

Steve calls everyone over to go over the game plan 1 more time. You and Nat were the ones to get into the computer to upload several files we were after. It was Steve, Bucky, and Wanda’s job to get you there. Sam, Tony, Clint, and Vision were to maintain the outside parameter. Bruce was to stay onboard unless he was needed to go green. You all nodded in understanding and got ready to to disembark the jet.

Once the jet landed, Steve, Bucky and Wanda went out first, followed up Sam, Tony, Clint and Vision. You and Nat came out last waiting for the all clear sign to enter the building. Once you were inside, you both followed the map, given to you, to get to the computer. You didn’t come across too much action while inside, maybe an agent here or there, but they were dealt with quickly.

“Almost seems too easy, right?” you ask Natasha, who nods in response. You both finally make it to the computer room and Nat sits down to start the upload, which will take about 10-15 minutes, while you stood guard. After almost 10 minutes, and no one was trying to stop you you turn to Nat, “Something is not right,” you say. You try your comm to call Steve, but there was nothing. 

“My comm is out, what about yours?” you ask Nat. Nat also tried to call out to the team with no response. Once the upload was done, you both start to head out the way you came. As you turned the corner, you come face to face with 15-20 HYDRA soldiers with their guns drawn. You and Nat both draw your weapons ready for a fight. It took all of 2 seconds for all hell to break loose. 

You and Nat are working seamlessly side by side, until you feel a sharp pain in your ribs. You look down and see a knife sticking out of your torso and you drop to your knees. You already know your lung has been punctured, but you keep trying to fight, as breathing gets harder. Nat turns and looks and sees you down, and fights hard to get to you. 

You are then kicked down and collapse on the floor. You hear Nat yell, but don’t hear what she is saying. All the chaos around you sounds so far away. Suddenly you feel yourself being lifted off the grown, “Y/N, open your eyes, Doll. Open your eyes,” you hear, but you can’t seem to open them. They are just too heavy.

Bucky runs back to the quinjet with you in his arms. He is panicking, as you are unresponsive. He brings you to Bruce, you immediately sets you up on a machine, and they see the faintest heart beat. Bucky holds your hand, begging you to be ok. Bruce asks someone to take Bucky away, which Steve does. Sam is being held by Nat, as he is also freaking out, as Tony flies the jet home. 

“Steve, I need her to be ok. Please, I need her to be ok. She needs to know... she needs to know,” Bucky says as Steve hugs him to keep him away from you. “Know what?” Steve asks, trying to get Bucky to calm down. “She needs to know that I never stopped loving her. I was stupid and didn’t think I was worthy of her. She could have died because of me and I... I didn’t think I deserved her. I’m sorry... I’m so fucking sorry,” Bucky says sobbing.

Steve holds onto Bucky, as he is still trying to get to you. Meanwhile Bruce has you hooked up to oxygen and an IV and regulates your heartbeat until you can get to the compound. Bucky looks helplessly at your pale skin, thinking how you could possibly die without knowing that he really did love you. That he didn’t mean to break your heart. That he wants to die, instead of you.

--

Part 3 coming soon! Happy New Year Everyone!

Permanent Taglist:  @hailmary-yramliah @tuiccim @comedictragedy @cap-n-stuff @thefridgeismybestie @aleaisntcreative @lookiamtrying @pinknerdpanda @morganclaire4 @iamvalentinaconstanza @verygraphicink @im-squished @joannie95 @peace-love-hobbitness @connie326 @arundhati1609 @amandamdiehl​ @harrysthiccthighss​ @its-izzys​ @roserose26​ @rebekahdawkins @elegantobservationstudentsblog @broco8​ @bestofbucky

Story Taglist: @calwitch, @jaysayey, @shamelessfangirl-3, @tcc-gizmachine

[redhoodssweetheart]

By the Sea Part Twelve

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Fem!Mermaid!Reader

Requested: No (Requests are closed except for a few, see pinned post for details. I also no longer do taglists)

Word Count: 1.5K

Warnings: Angst, fluff

Description:   Y/N is a mermaid that longs for the land.  Her friend Natasha tells her that she knows a human who will take care of her and leads her there, she only has one rule: do not under any circumstances fall in love with a human.  But Steve’s friend Bucky is drawing her in, in ways she hadn’t expected.  Will Y/N be able to return to the ocean once her stay in the human realm is complete?  And what happens when Natasha learns that Y/N is betrothed to be married to their king’s son?  Will she drag her friend back or keep her hidden amongst the humans?

A/N: Only three parts left!  Thank you all for going on this journey with me, I’ll probably work on a Wanda Maximoff x Cinderella!Reader next.

The day of the festival arrived and the whole village was buzzing with excitement.  The real party wouldn’t begin until the sun started to disappear, but for now, people were enjoying the booths that the shops had set up along the main street selling their goods. Y/N was there at her own booth making flower bouquets for the men and women who wanted to surprise their sweethearts.

Bucky was in a booth next to hers painting the faces of the children from the village.  He was taking donations rather than charging a set fee.  He wanted to do something nice for the children and even some of the adults got in on the fun.  Y/N had been one of the first people he painted the face for.  She had a vine of flowers crawling up the side of her face, a lot of the little girls wanted the same thing as Y/N, and Bucky was more than happy to oblige them.

The sun slowly began to descend and the shop owners closed up their booths and made their way toward the square where the other villagers were waiting to begin the dancing and music.  Y/N and Bucky met the boys there and Y/N promised to save a dance for each of them.  Natasha joined them as well, but there was something off about how she looked.  Both Steve and Y/N were concerned, but she brushed them off and said that it was nothing.

The celebration officially began and the band started to play a lively tune.  Bucky swept Y/N into his arms and twirled her around, a bright smile on his face as she began to giggle and cling to him for support.  The others stood off on the sidelines and watched the two of them together, smiles on their faces as they watched their friends together so carefree and happy.

When the song ended Bucky took Y/N by the hand and said, “Come with me.”

He led her away from the square, catching Natasha’s eye as he went, she winked at him and he gave her a subtle thumbs up.  “Where are they going?”  Steve asked Natasha when he saw Bucky rushing off with Y/N trailing along behind him.

“Oh he’s just going to propose to Y/N,” she said casually.

“He what?!”  The remaining six men shouted.

Meanwhile, Bucky led Y/N to his studio.  She was laughing as they made their way up the stairs.  “Why are we here?  The party is back at the square,” she said as they made it to the landing.

Bucky turned to face her, his smile never wavering, “Close your eyes.”

She gave him a confused look, “What?”

“Close your eyes,” he said again.  “I have a surprise for you and I don’t want you to see it until I’ve got everything prepared.”

She eyed him for a moment before obeying and closing her eyes.  Satisfied that she wasn’t going to peek he opened the door to his studio and entered the room, gently leading her to the center of the room.  Everything was ready.  Natasha had come by early and lit the candles for him and made sure that everything was in place for when he brought Y/N.

“Can I open my eyes now?”  She questioned.

Bucky knelt down and pulled the ring out of his pocket, opening the lid and looking up at her, “Open them.”  When she did she blinked and looked around the room.  She saw the smeraldo flowers and the candles and her mouth opened slightly in shock.  She looked back at Bucky and saw the ring nestled in the little box and a soft gasp escaped her.  It was a simple ring with a single diamond in the middle, but on the sides there looked like the smeraldo flower etched into the gold band.  “Y/N, I know that we haven’t known one another for a long time, but I feel alive when I’m with you.  You’re my muse and my favorite person in this world.  I wanted to do this tonight because I thought that it would be the perfect time to propose.  I want you to stay here with me, I want to paint you and wake up next to you every morning.  I just want to be with you for the rest of my life, and I hope you feel the same way about me.  So would you do me the honor of marrying me?”

Y/N stood there in shock for a moment and then she knelt down in front of Bucky, tears filling her eyes.  “Yes,” she whispered.  “Yes, I’ll marry you.  I want to spend the rest of my life with you.  Staying here in the studio with you and just being with you.  I want all of that.”

Bucky let out a happy laugh and pulled her in close so that he could kiss her.  The two of them shared a soft, tender kiss before Bucky pulled away to place the ring on her finger.

“Let’s go tell the others,” he whispered as he leaned in to give her another tender kiss.

Y/N took his hand and this time she was the one dragging him back to the others.  They were waiting for the two of them to return, their eyes trained on the path that led to Bucky’s studio.  When they saw the happy smiles on their friends' faces the group began to cheer and they began congratulating the two of them.

Sam was first to raise a glass and toast the happy couple, telling them how thrilled he was that they had found each other.  Then was Tony, Bruce, Clint, Thor, and finally Steve.  “Congratulations you two,” he pulled the two of them in for a hug.

The celebration continued from there, Bucky never straying too far from Y/N’s side.  When the other villagers saw the ring on Y/N’s finger they offered their congratulations to the young couple.  The younger girls were upset to see that Bucky was now a taken man, but the older crowd was thrilled to see the young man so much in love and ready to settle down.

Y/N broke away to get something to drink, Bucky wanted to go with her, but she promised him that she would be fine for a few moments and that she would be right back.  She was at the table refilling her glass when she heard a familiar voice behind her go, “Hello, Y/N.”

 Bucky was beginning to grow worried when Y/N didn’t return from getting a drink.  He scanned the crowd to see if he could see her anywhere, but there was no sign of her.  He tugged on Steve’s arm after a few minutes of searching and Steve didn’t like the worried look on his friend’s face.  “Have you seen Y/N?  She was supposed to go get a drink and come right back, but that was about ten minutes ago and no one else has seen her since.”

Natasha came over when she heard what Bucky had said, “What’s going on?” 

“Y/N’s missing,” Steve told her.  “Bucky said that she was going to go get a drink, but that was over ten minutes ago and no one has seen her since.”

Natasha’s face paled and she said, “What if Loki was here?  What if he took her?”

“Then we have to get her back,” Bucky said.  “I’m not going to let her be forced into a loveless marriage like this.  He kidnapped her and we need to get her back.” 

“It’s not that simple,” Natasha said.  “You’re a human, you can’t go into our kingdom to get her back.  You’d die before you even made it there.  And if Loki has her then she’ll be guarded to make sure she doesn’t escape again.”

“There has to be something we can do,” Bucky pleaded.  His eyes were filling with tears, this was supposed to be a happy night, he was going to marry the woman he loved and they were going to spend the rest of their lives together.  Now she was gone and there was a possible chance that he may never see her again.  He didn’t want to think like that, he wanted to stay positive.

“Let me head home, and see if she’s there,” Natasha told him.  “Give me a chance to figure out if she’s really there.  I’ll be back when I have news.”

She went to leave but Bucky caught her hand, “Please bring her back to me.”

Natasha pulled Bucky in for a hug, “I’ll do what I can.”  Bucky released her hand and disappeared into the crowd.

Steve watched the devastation on his friend’s face.  He wrapped an arm around the younger man’s shoulders and said, “I think we need to tell the boys what’s going on.  They deserve to know the truth about the situation so they don’t hate Y/N.”

Bucky nodded, “Gather them up and I’ll meet you back at your home.”  He disappeared into the crowd and headed for his studio.  When he arrived he fell to his knees and let the tears flow down his cheeks freely.  He let out a pained cry and curled up into a ball.  Why hadn’t he gone with her?  Why couldn’t he have just stayed with her?  He knew that Loki was looking for her, he should have paid more attention to her.

This was his fault and now he may never see her again and that thought broke his heart and made his tears fall faster than they had been before.

[hawkbucks]

I don't even remember if I reposted it, but here's the WinterIron fake dating AU that I found on my disc drive. I combined all the posts in one; where there's a divider, that means it was a new post.

Lotta fake dating fics have Tony be the one who asks Bucky and I love it, but also: Bucky being the one asking Tony?

Like, maybe Rebecca is getting married and she asks him “are you bringing anyone?” with the most hopeful look on her face.

Bucky sorta bluescreens and stutters out a “yeah” because he knows Rebecca really wants to see him with someone and happy, but he’s only really been focusing on his studies instead of his social life.

She smiles and claps her hands together, exclaiming her excitement to meet Bucky’s date! Meanwhile, Bucky is panicking on the inside.

He could ask Steve, considering that he and Steve are best friends and no one would really question them getting together, but there’s also the fact that Rebecca knows Steve better than Steve probably knows himself and would tell they’re faking right off the bat.

There’s Sam who, despite their teasing relationship, they really do like each other. He wouldn’t have too much of a problem bringing Sam around if he doesn’t already know that Sam would hang this over his head for the rest of his life and all but force Bucky to buy him food and clothes and stuff to repay him, and that’s not even talking about the endless teasing.

There’s Sharon, but she wouldn’t agree. She’d just roll her eyes and call him dramatic. It’s a fair judgement.

There’s Natasha, and they’ve actually dated before and that would be awkward. “Oh yeah, the girl I used to date back when I was a sophomore in high school and I are back together again!”

He still ends up texting Steve and explaining his dilemma and please, Steve, do you know anyone?

Steve tells him he’s an idiot which, fair, yeah, but then he tells Bucky that he knows a guy, cute, your type, I can give him your number. Then he sends Bucky a photo of himself and some other guy with brown hair and pretty eyes and dimples, what the fuck.

Please give him my number.

I can feel your thirst, Steve texts. Disgusting.

So, he brings Tony (all it took was confirming that there was going to be food and that yeah, they have salmon as a menu item, is that what you want me to pick?), and Tony’s a hit! He’s charming, polite, and pretty cute to boot.

Then Rebecca corners Bucky during the reception while Tony’s getting some cupcakes and Bucky immediately jumps to the conclusion that Rebecca figured out that they’re not actually dating and she’s about to tear him a new one, but she smiles and gives him a bear hug. “Your boyfriend is a sweetheart,” she gushes, “and I’m glad you brought him along. And, you know, Robert and I are having a party for Thanksgiving. Maybe you two would like to come?”

And the only thing that runs through Bucky’s head is shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit—

Bucky can’t handle these feelings. He just can’t. It’s too much too soon, and the intensity at which he feels them is both overwhelming and terrifying to him, especially since he and Tony haven’t even known each other for that long.

During the party, Tony really pushes the act. He takes Bucky’s arm and places it around his shoulders, feeds Bucky some pumpkin pie, blushing when Rebecca coos at the both of them, and even sits on Bucky’s lap when everyone heads to the couch to catch the recording of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade that Rebecca set.

And Bucky desperately wishes it was all real. He wishes that Tony really is in love with him as opposed to doing this to help out. He’s never felt warmer than when Tony smiles at him, bright and genuine and making him ache all over. He knows that his feelings are only going to keep snowballing and snowballing until he can’t take it anymore and snaps and confesses to Tony, and he doesn’t want that. He doesn’t want Tony to feel obligated to go out with him. He doesn’t want Tony to feel like he’s being put on the spot.

Tony cuddles closer to him, whispering about how the Snoopy float looks really cute. He chokes down a sob and responds with “yeah, doll, it does”.

Bucky drives Tony home. He always does. It’s the least he can do. “So, when are you going to need a boyfriend again?” Tony teases, feet up on the dashboard. They’re already at Tony’s apartment complex, but Tony, infuriatingly attractive Tony, insists on talking to him. “If you’re swinging by Becca’s for Christmas, I can come with you.”

He doesn’t respond, instead choosing to continue looking ahead and squeezing his hands on the steering wheel. “Hey, you alright?” Tony asks softly and, god, he wishes Tony wasn’t the way he was.

Rip it off. Like a band-aid. C’mon, Barnes. “It’s fine. I’ll just tell her we broke up.”

“What?” Tony’s voice wavers, an undercurrent of hurt swimming below that one word. Bucky hates himself for it. “Did I do something wrong? At the party? I—”

Bucky sets his jaw, looking at Tony (and wishing he didn’t because Tony actually looks devastated). “We were never really together, Tony. Don’t act like it matters.”

He hears a hitch in Tony’s breath. He looks away. “Yeah, I guess it doesn’t.” Tony unbuckles his seatbelt and opens the car door. “Maybe this is why you don’t have an actual boyfriend.” It hurts, but it’s better that Tony leaves hating him because he can’t imagine the breakdown he’d have if Tony kept coming around with those kicked puppy eyes of his and asking why Bucky has been avoiding him.

Tony walks into his apartment complex without looking back.

Bucky thinks he needs to get drunk.

And that’s how Steve finds him. Completely sloshed, half-sitting half-lying on the couch with red-rimmed eyes and a tear-stained hoodie. “St’ve,” he slurs, lifting his bottle of Jack Daniel’s.

Steve sighs. “What, did Becks show everyone your baby pictures again?”

Bucky shakes his head. “Fucked up.”

“Yeah, I can see that. At least save some of that for me.”

He shakes his head again. “Tony hates me.”

Steve freezes, halfway through shucking off his jacket. “What did you do?” He looks at Bucky with that Disappointed Parental Stare of his.

“He hates me.” Bucky feels himself start to tear up again as he reminds himself that he won’t be able to see Tony again. Won’t be able to breathe in the comforting smell of that vanilla and cinnamon lotion that he’s so fond of. “Made ‘im hate me.”

“Why in the hell would you do that?” Steve gets his jacket off this time, throwing it on the hook and not paying it any attention when it slips off and falls to the floor with a thud.

“Don’t know.” Which is a lie. He knows why. He just doesn’t want to face it.

“No, no, you don’t get to feign ignorance.” Steve walks over and takes the bottle from him, ignoring Bucky’s protests and whines and taking a few swigs of his own. “I’ve only seen you get this drunk twice before: the first was when you and Nat broke up and you broke into your dad’s liquor cabinet, and the second was when you came home from the army. Considering I don’t see your fatigues with you—”

Bucky growls weakly. “Shut up, Steve—”

“Then stop pushing people away,” Steve growls right back. “You fix this.”

“We didn’t ev’n know each other that long—”

“No, you might not have, but if you’re sitting here on our couch, drunk off your ass ‘cause you think he hates you, that means something. Fix. This.”

Then Steve’s phone goes off. He sets down the Jack and he fishes his phone out of his pocket. A swipe, and it’s unlocked. He snorts, shaking his head. “You know who just texted me?”

Hope. “Tony?”

“No. His best friend. You want to know what it says?”

Bucky doesn’t think his answer matters much. Something tells him Steve will tell him even if he says no. “Go.”

Steve clears his throat. “’Hope your buddy is happy. Tony won’t stop crying.’ Then some middle finger emojis. Seven of them, to be exact.”

Bucky sinks further into the couch, his stomach twisting into knots and nausea rising up his throat now that he knows Tony is crying and he’s the reason why. He makes a swipe at the Daniels, but is unable to reach far enough. “You gon’ reply?” he croaks.

“Oh, yeah. I’m gonna tell him that you’re being miserable, too. And that you’re an idiot.”

Bucky grunts.

“It’s for your own safety. Believe me, if he thinks you’re getting your jollies from this, he’ll send you on a one-way ticket to hell.”

He grunts again. That’s only mildly terrifying. And probably not even close to what he thinks he himself deserves. “You gon’ leave?”

“Yes. And I’m taking this—” Steve picks up the Jack— “with me.”

True to his word, Steve leaves with the bottle of Jack.

Bucky sits up and uses the sleeves of his hoodie to dry his eyes. He tries to keep quiet as he sobs.

The next day, he goes out, stretches his legs after spending the entire night on his couch. He contemplates going to visit Tony and beg for his forgiveness, but it’s… it’s probably too soon. He’ll just wait. In the meantime, he picks up a plush of Snoopy holding a heart. It’s cute.

1 week. He thinks he’ll wait a little more.

2 weeks. Maybe just a bit more.

(Rebecca calls. Asks him about Tony. He says that they broke up. She only replies with a small I’m sorry. It was clear that you two loved each other.

He bites his lip so hard that he tastes copper.)

3 weeks. It’s just a bit before Christmas. Steve comes into his room. “Rhodes texted me. He said Tony admitted that he wants to see you again. Apparently he passed on my word that you were being pretty gloomy about it too.”

Bucky fidgets on his bed. “So, what, I’m just supposed to roll up on his apartment with some flowers and chocolate?”

“Sarcastic bastard,” Steve mutters, although there’s no real venom behind his words. “It’d be a start.”

Bucky thinks for a second. He gets up and starts rifling through his closet. “Alright. Leave so I can change.” Thankfully, Steve obliges. Bucky tucks the Snoopy into his backpack.

He picks up some Ferrero Rocher. He remembers Tony eating them by the handful at the reception. It’s packaged in a transparent box shaped like a heart. For the flowers, he picks up some red roses, the classic choice. He even gets a card that says “I’M SORRY!” with a picture of a sad-looking cat on it.

“Girlfriend troubles?” the cashier asks as they ring him up.

“Boyfriend, actually,” he replies, surprised at how easily that rolls off his tongue.

They hum. “Hope it gets better soon, man.”

He hopes so too. “Thanks.”

Somehow, he manages to make the drive to Tony’s apartment without crashing the car. 6339. He remembers Tony telling him his apartment number if he ever wanted to come up and visit. Looks like he’s finally taking him up on that offer.

Before his nerves can take over and tell him to run and maybe flee the country, he takes the elevator up after explaining to the concierge that he’s there to visit a friend. He knocks on Tony’s door, holding the flowers up in front of his face, the Snoopy plush sitting on top of them along with the card. The box of chocolates he holds behind his back.

When he hears the door open, he pulls the flowers down just enough to see over them. “Hi.”

“Bucky,” Tony breathes out. He looks like he’s about to start crying again, clad in his donut-patterned pajama pants and an oversized shirt that advertises a noodle place that Bucky passed on his way. (Seriously. So many tears!) “Why’re you here?”

“To say sorry.” Bucky holds the flowers out.

“What you said really hurt,” Tony says, voice cracking, but he takes the flowers. “You got me a Snoopy?” He takes the plush off of the bouquet and smiles softly at it before looking back up at Bucky, expression holding cautious hope. He places Snoopy back in the bouquet.

“I know. I’m sorry. I was… I don’t know, scared. Not that I’m tryin’ to come up with an excuse for myself, but… you know.” He shows Tony the chocolates this time.

“Scared?” Tony takes the chocolates like he took the flowers.

“I really like you, Tony. I was thinking about asking you out for real after the party,” Bucky admits, looking Tony in the eye and hoping that Tony can see that he’s being genuine. His palms start getting clammy. Is the temperature rising or is it just him? “And I was scared.”

“Why?” Tony asks, sounding on the edge of desperation. “Why were you so scared you couldn’t just tell me?”

“Because I didn’t want you to feel obliged to say yes.”

Tony tilts his head to the side, eyebrows furrowed as a frown tugs at his lips.

Bucky begins to regret his answer. Obviously it isn’t one that Tony likes.

“Is that it?” Tony sounds gentle. So gentle. “I like you too, you know. And you know I’m not a pushover. If I didn’t want to go out with you, I would’ve told you that.”

“I know. I know, but I never said my mind was good at thinking rationally.” The corner of Bucky’s mouth quirks up at the self-deprecation.

“Mine isn’t either.” Tony places the chocolates with the card and the Snoopy in the bouquet, using that now free hand to wipe at his eyes. His sniffles. “And I have to apologize too. For what I said before I left your car.”

“It’s fine, Tony—”

“No, it’s not. It was such an asshole thing to say.” Tony sounds upset on Bucky’s behalf.

“I made you angry.”

“That didn’t give me the right to imply that you’re unlovable.” Tony stares at him in silent challenge. Try and refute me, his eyes say. “I’m sorry.”

Bucky shakes his head, knowing there’s only one way to end this. “I accept your apology.”

“And I accept yours.” Tony smiles at him, nose tinged with pink, and a burst of warmth spreads in Bucky’s chest. It’s gratifying to see that smile directed his way again. He just might join Tony in sniffling if this continues.

Tony reaches out to grab his hand, lacing their fingers together. “Why don’t you come inside? I can make you some coffee.”

“I’d like that,” Bucky says, squeezing Tony’s hand once. “I’d like that a lot.”

—

If you guys are curious, I listened to this song on repeat while doing this lol. (The link should lead to a video with the English translation!)

[hailhydra920]

Royally Matched Pt. 9

Pairing: Prince!Bucky x Matchmaker!Reader Royal AU

Summary: Sam being Sam. Coronation time. Butterflies.

Warnings: None

A/n: Guys the series is almost over! Oh my gosh! Just a chapter or two left.

Part 9

          “Y/n!” Bucky called jogging after you.

           You turned toward the prince as he came toward you.

           “I, uh, wanted to know if you wanted to go for a ride with Me, Amy, and Steve.” Bucky said nervously rubbing the back of his neck.

           “Thanks, but I’m sure Dot would love to join you. Sam and I—"

           “Sam? What are you doing with Sam?” Bucky said with a displeased look.

           “He wanted to take me for a ride in his carriage around town before dinner. I don’t see why you would care; you have Dot.”

           “Well, yeah, but—”

           “Y/n! There you are! You coming?” Sam asked from one of the doors.

           “Yup! One sec!” You called before looking at Bucky. “Have fun. Tell Amy to be careful.”

           Bucky shoved his hands in his pockets. “I, um, I will. See you at dinner tonight I guess.”

           “See ya.” You said before jogging to catch up with Sam.

~~~~~~

           “Where’s Y/n?” Steve asked saddling a horse as Bucky walked up.

           “She’s with Sam.” Bucky grumbled.

           “Is that jealousy I hear?” Steve joked as Bucky shot him a glare.

           “No, just mad she chose him over me.”

           “That’s jealousy.” Steve confirmed. “Do tell me again why you chose Dot over Y/n.”

           Bucky huffed as he tightened his saddle. “Not now Steve. And Dot’s not that bad.”

           Steve looked at his friend with disappointment. “Right, I must have missed all the times she was pleasant. She’s trouble, Buck. And her painting skills aren’t exactly praiseworthy.”

           “Well, not everyone can be a professional like you, Steve. Wait? You saw that?”

           Steve nodded with a grimace. “I would try to be nice, but it was horrible. Sorry, pal. I think you might need to rethink your life choices.”

           “Let’s just get on with our horse ride. You ready Amy?” Bucky asked turning to the little girl that just rounded the corner.

           “Yup!” She said with a huge smile.

~~~~~~~

           “So, what’s the deal with you and Bucky?” Sam asked as you slowly rode through town.

           “N-nothing. What makes you say we have something?” You said nervously.

           Sam deadpanned and sighed. “That man is head over heels for you. My question is why he is with that Dot woman.”

           “Bucky is not head over heels for me. And he’s with Dot because I matched them together.”

           “Why don’t you just tell him how you feel? That would save you a whole lot of trouble. And don’t you dare start telling me that you’re not good enough, because you are. You are Y/n the Beautiful.”

           “Well, thank you, Sam.” You said as he smiled. “I’m glad someone thinks I’m beautiful.”

~~~~~~~

           “Over here!” Sam called as you walked into the dining room. “Come sit by me.”

           You walked over to Sam and sat by him, unaware that Bucky’s eyes were following you.

           “Hi, Sam. Nat is on another date with Bruce, so I’m glad I’m not going to be alone.”

           “Don’t think you would be alone even if I was gone. I think princey boy is staring you down.” Sam chuckled turning your head.

           You saw Bucky staring at you, a frown settled on his lips. You stared back at him for a little bit before he turned away to talk to Steve.

           “I’m just going to say that that was a little creepy.” You said as Sam nodded.

           “I think he’s jealous. I’m loving this actually. I wonder what would happen if I put my arm around your shoulders.” Sam said slinging his arm lazily around you.

           You both watched as Bucky’s smiling face came to a stop on both of you. His face turned into an all out murder stare.

           “He’s so jealous!” Sam laughed. “This is kinda fun. Can I do this the entire night?”

           “As much as he deserves it, leave the man alone.” You playfully scolded Sam.

           “Oh alright.” Sam pouted crossing his arms. “It was fun while it lasted. Ooh, look! They’re bringing out the food!”

           You rolled your eyes and laughed at the man beside you. “You’re such a dork.”

~~~~~~~

Dinner went well, and you wished Sam a goodnight before going to your room and collapsing on your mattress. Tomorrow was the coronation, and your stomach twisted at the thought of Dot becoming queen. Oh well, it was Bucky’s choice. Your eyes began to water. You loved Bucky, and it hurt to see him so enamored by another woman. Clutching your pillow close you cried into it.

“Gosh dang it heart! Why must you be this way?!” You sobbed, tears soaking your pillow.

~~~~~~~

           The castle was buzzing with activity. Bucky was finally becoming king today, and today was your last day in the kingdom. You had hardly seen any of Bucky today. He was swamped with pictures and the press for his coronation, but it was probably for the best. You had been packing a good deal of the day, happy to go back home, but sad because the man you loved would be left here.

           Grabbing the box off your desk, you opened it, tears filling your eyes. If Bucky couldn’t feel butterflies with you, then you could support his love of Dot. You lightly jogged down the stairs, clutching the box close. You kept a lookout for Damien, you needed him to deliver the gift to Dot. Bucky saw you walking down the stairs and smiled.

           “Y/n, haven’t seen you all day.” He said before taking in your appearance. “You’re not ready.”

           You looked at your t-shirt and jeans. “Oh yeah. I should probably do that. Hey, you look kingly.”

           Bucky laughed. “Not sure if that’s a word but thank you. My hair is good?”

           “You look fine Bucky. I, uh, gotta go get ready.” You lied, your eyes darting to the floor.

           “See you in a little bit then.” He said with a wave before walking away.

           You sighed. Then Damien caught your eye. “Damien!”

           The man walked toward you, a frown on his features. “You’re not ready.”

           “Yeah, yeah, I know. Can you give this to Dot? I want her to wear it for the coronation.” You shrugged handing him the box.

           “Of course. Anything else?” He asked raising an eyebrow.

           “Please don’t tell Bucky, but I’m leaving.”

           “Why?”

           “I’m sorry Damien, I just…please give that to Dot.” You spoke quietly before running up the stairs.

           On your way to your room, you bumped into Sam.

           “Whoa there!” He chuckled before taking in your current state. “What’s wrong?”

           “It’s nothing.” You mumbled wiping your eyes.

           “It’s obviously something if it’s got you crying.” Sam refuted, his face full of concern. “Tell me what’s wrong.”

           “Everything. It seems like nothing is going right. I-I just need to go back home. I’m leaving Sam. Please don’t tell anyone. It’s for the best.”

           Sam sighed before hugging you. “I won’t. Just be careful, okay? Wouldn’t want my favorite person to end up somewhere she wasn’t supposed to be.”

           You laughed through tears. “Thanks Sam. Y-you’re a good friend.”

           “Probably the best.” Sam joked. “But seriously, stay safe.”

           “I will.”

~~~~~~~

           Bucky’s blue eyes darted around frantically. Where were you? You weren’t among the dancing couples or by the food, most of which Sam was hogging by the way. He tugged the collar of his shirt, desperately trying to cool down his frantic state. Dot noticed Bucky’s nervousness as soon as she walked in. She thought Bucky was looking for her, but could tell he hadn’t even noticed she walked in.

           “Hey Jamie.” Dot said causing Bucky to jump.

           “Hey Dot, I—where did you get that?” Bucky questioned as soon as his eyes landed on the golden butterflies that were pinned to the shoulder of her dress.

           “Y/n gave it to me. Isn’t that sweet?” Dot gushed batting her eyelashes.

           Butterflies. Bucky thought. Freaking butterflies.

           Bucky suddenly felt really bad. His eyes darted around the room, but no such luck. You weren’t there. His heart sank. I’m an idiot!

           Meanwhile the king watched his son. The king had seen many things in his life, but golly, his son could be an idiot at times. He turned to Nat who was currently sipping her wine.

           “Where is she?” The king asked.

           Nat looked away. “I—”

           “Don’t lie to me.”

           “She’s at the airport. She didn’t want anyone to know.”

           “Must I do everything myself?” The king said standing up.

           “Where are you going?” Nat asked with wide eyes.

           “To go get that woman from the airport and get my son to tell her how he feels. I feel like they both need their happy ending. Don’t you?”

Permanent Taglist: @sleep-i-ness​​

Royally Matched Taglist: @supraveng @all-art-is-quite-useless @bestofbucky @tonystankschild @emmabarnes @tiziswiat

A/n: names with strikethrough won’t let me tag.

[buckysmischief]

here comes trouble

Peter Parker x reader // Bucky Barnes x reader

Word Count: 2.4k

Warnings: language, mentions of cheating, and kinda cheating.. but not really? It's up to you. kinda smutty??, so 18+ please

Summary: You were supposed to be dating Peter Parker. Then can someone explain why the hell Bucky is treating you better than your own boyfriend.

Masterlist

Another another amazing moodboard by @fangirlinsweden , thank you again 🥰🥰

“Hey Wanda, have you seen Peter anywhere? He said he was gonna be in the lab with Tony all day but they’re both nowhere to be found”

“Nope, haven’t seen anyone but you all day. Come sit with me though, I feel like you need to vent.” You and Wanda have been bestfriends since you moved into the tower, it wasn’t surprising she knew that something was bothering you.

“He’s just been.. weird lately. Like, he doesn’t come back from patrol until 6 am, unless he stays at May’s place. He doesn’t talk to me much anymore, and I hate admitting this but, we haven’t had sex in weeks. I’ve sent him seductive pictures, tried setting up romantic evenings, and still.. Nothing.” You had convinced yourself that Peter was just stressed, but finally saying it out loud made you feel more uneasy about the situation than before.

“That doesn’t sound like Peter, I’m sorry.” she wrapped you in her blanket and gave you a comforting hug. “How about we watch scary movies and drink wine until you feel better?”

“This is why you’re my best friend.”

You got the wine and snacks ready while Wanda got extra pillows and blankets and turned off the lights. There was a pile of movies stacked and ready to watch, Friday the 13th, IT, When a Stranger Calls, and A Nightmare on Elm Street.

“Where do we start?”

“When a Stranger Calls, it’s been awhile since I’ve seen that one.” you put the movie in the DVD player and lose yourself in the chills and thrills of it all.

~

Meanwhile, Bucky is in his room meditating, a habit he picked up in Wakanda, when he heard your voice in the other room. Normally he isn’t the type to eavesdrop on other people’s conversations, but when it involves you, he tends to bend his own rules.

When Bucky moved into the tower a few months prior, he only spoke to Steve and Sam. But after a few mornings of you offering to make him breakfast, he finally caved and the two of you had been close friends ever since.

Friends. He was totally fine with that, at least that’s what he convinced himself. When he found out you and Peter had been dating for the past year, he had no other choice. He told himself he’d never come between you and your happiness, but apparently your boyfriend is doing that all on his own.

“It’s now or never,” he thought to himself, “I gotta at least see if there’s a chance. Especially if Peter’s up to what I think he’s up to.”

He waited until the movie was over to go into the common area. “Hey you two, what’s the occasion?”

“Yn is having Peter problems, he’s being weird. We're trying to get her mind off of it.” Wanda knew about Bucky’s little crush, and she wanted to see how long it would take for him to admit it.

“How’s that going?”

You stand up, walking to the kitchen to grab another bottle of wine, “It’s going great, but if he doesn’t come home tonight I won’t know what to do anymore. It’s aggravating, and I’m tired of bringing it up and him apologizing and then doing nothing to fix it.” Normally you wouldn’t talk to Bucky about Peter, the bad things at least. Your relationship was private, but you were spiraling.

“Hey, doll, it’s okay. S’not your fault your generation is lacking gentlemen.” He joked, picking you up from behind, “Besides, you shouldn’t have to beg someone to care about you, Yn. Not when you have us.” Bucky decided to start out subtle, he didn’t want to push you away if this didn’t end in his favor. This was delicate.

“I know, I feel conflicted about it all.. but less talking, more watching. Join us?” The three of you sat down and watched one more movie. Well, if you count both parts of IT one movie. Peter had patrol that night and you wanted to be in yalls room when he got home, if he got home.

-

Peter didn’t come back until the next morning, walking in while everyone was eating breakfast.

“For someone who was on patrol all night, you sure look well rested.” Bucky pointed out, not even looking up from his plate.

“It was a slow night, and when I got too tired I just stayed at Aunt May’s.” Peter avoided all eye contact while making his plate. You give Wanda a look, telling her that this is what you were talking about.

Once everyone is done eating, Peter gives you a quick kiss goodbye, saying he was going to the gym and then to Ned’s to work on a presentation with him and MJ.

“Hey doll, want some help?” It was your day to clean up the kitchen, but if Bucky was asking, you weren’t going to tell him no.

“I wash, you dry?” He smiles and nods, helping you grab the dishes from the table. You both work in a peaceful silence until you’re almost done washing the dishes, Bucky asks, “Can I give you my opinion?”

“Sure.” You were curious, Bucky having an opinion isn’t anything new. Him asking to express it is, though.

“I think you deserve better than what Peter is giving you, which doesn’t seem to be a whole lot lately.” So much for being subtle and taking it slow.

“And what do you know about my relationship with Peter?” you shut off the water and begin cleaning the stove and countertops. Bucky was supposed to be cleaning off the table more, but instead he’s suddenly pressed against your back, hands moving your hair behind your ear and whispers, “I know that if you were mine, you’d never go to bed alone. Does he even tell you when he’s not coming home?”

He found his answer in your silence. How could Peter treat you this way?

“Does he leave you to do everything yourself too?” you could tell what he was implying, and you began to wonder if Wanda told him what you confessed to her the day before. “That’s a shame. I hope you know that I’m always here to help out, you just gotta ask.”

“Bucky..” it came out hoarse and needy, and you’re sure he noticed.

“I can have you screaming that later if you’d like. But we don’t wanna hurt poor Peter’s feelings, do we?”

Before you could figure out a response, he was gone. Were you dreaming? Bucky only said things like that to you in your dreams. Sure, you have a tiny crush on the Super Soldier, but you would never act on it. Not while you were dating Peter.

But this was real, and you had to figure out this Peter situation before temptation struck again.

-

Over the next few weeks Bucky was relentless, and even though the both of you knew you weren’t going to cheat on Peter, it was an entertaining distraction. Thankfully when he decided to tease you in front of the team, he was subtle enough that no one thought anything of it. Except for Wanda, Wanda somehow knew about the dishes incident and you told her everything.

He started out simple, swapping out his usual black sweatpants for a pair of gray ones. It didn’t go unnoticed by you, just a shame he caught you staring. There were a few times he sat beside you at dinner when Peter wasn’t there and he didn’t even so much as talk to you, but the first time Peter was there since Bucky started whatever this was, he still sat beside you.

Everything was going normal, Steve was even telling a story about the 30’s, you were beginning to think Bucky would continue to let the dinner table be a safe zone. But then you felt the chill of his vibranium arm on your right leg. You tensed underneath his touch and looked around to see if anyone noticed only to find no one, not even Peter was paying attention to you. Bucky didn’t move his hand, save for his thumb that was rubbing small circles on his thigh. He just kept it like that until everyone got up to clean.

The first time you two were alone though, that was more intense.

Everyone was out doing their own thing since it was a Saturday, but since Peter bailed on your plans again, you decided it was a good day to catch up on your endless pile of laundry. You were almost done loading a washer full of the first batch of clothes when you heard him come in, he didn’t say anything, only coming up behind you and running his hands up your arms to your neck.

“I thought you were supposed to be going outta town this weekend.” You question if it’s a good idea to let him continue rubbing your shoulders, but you’ve been stressing yourself out about a relationship you seem to be the only one who remembers you’re in.

“Surprise, surprise. Peter bailed. Again.” you sigh, resting your head on Bucky’s chest. You’ve made the decision you were going to break up with Peter, and not because of Bucky, but because he’s such a bad boyfriend, every time you made plans to hang out (to break up with him, but he didn’t know that), he canceled with a lame ass excuse. The only reason you’re not single is because Peter won’t give you a solid minute of his time.

Bucky moves his hands back down your arms until he laces your fingers with his, “We both know if it were up to you, you’d have broken up with him already. So what’s the harm in pretending for like, five minutes he’s officially out of the picture so I can kiss you.”

You turn around, expecting to see some notion on his face to say he was kidding, but he wasn’t. He looked to be 100% serious. When you didn’t answer, he decided to test the waters and slowly bring your face closer to his. You wanted to tell him to stop, to wait until the situation was different, but he was so close that you could smell his shampoo, you could even feel his breath, and you were caving.

“Actually doll,” he puts his hands up and walks away from you, “you’re right. It’s probably best we wait. Wouldn’t wanna get in trouble now, would ya?”

Once again, he’s gone before you could figure out what the hell was going on.

-

A few days later everyone was eating breakfast when Peter walked in. He made his plate and sat next to you without saying a word. He was close enough that you could smell him though, and you had finally had it. This was the longest you had been with him in weeks, you knew this wasn’t the best time to do it but damn it, this had to be done. Now.

“Peter, I think we should break up.” everyone stops what they’re doing, giving their undivided attention to you and Peter.

“You really wanna do this now?” he wouldn’t even look at you, what had happened to the sweet and caring guy you once cared so deeply for?

But that didn’t matter, all that mattered was that you had finally felt free.

“I haven’t seen you properly in weeks, I didn’t want to let another day go by without saying it. And then you come in here smelling like her and I realized-” you were interrupted by a room full of wait, what’s, and oh my god who’s, and of course Bucky’s what a fucking idiot.

“MJ, you’ve been fucking MJ.. tell me I’m lying.” You’ve finally figured it out he wasn’t even trying to hide it.. he didn’t care. “Months. Months I’ve been feeling bad about Bucky-”

“What about Bucky!?” he stands, Sam pulling him back to his chair before he lunges at Bucky.

“Feeling bad about getting closer to Bucky while you were cheating on me, apparently. But that’s not my problem anymore.” You stood up and left, not really wanting to be around anyone anymore.

You stayed up so many nights thinking of all the reasons why Peter didn’t want to be with you anymore, because that was obvious, he just wasn’t man enough to admit it. But you never thought that him cheating on you, with MJ, was a possibility.

-

Before the day was over you had moved all your things into a new room, on a new floor, as far away from Peter as you could get. It wasn’t until later when you were almost asleep that you found out who your neighbor was. “Goodnight, trouble.”

No way. You got out of bed and threw on a hoodie, and went to the source of the voice, needing to make sure you weren’t hearing what you wanted to hear. Once you got to the door, you waited a second before knocking. What if it’s Sam and I’m going to wake him up? But you heard it again, Bucky’s voice. “Are you just gonna stand at the door all night or are you gonna come in here? Cause I gotta admit, I’m dyin to finally get my hands on you, doll.”

After quickly and quietly shutting his door, you ran to him and straddled his lap. Finally giving in to something the both of you have been thinking about for a very long time. The feeling of his lips on yours, on your shoulder and neck. His hands running up your sides, up your shirt, and your hips grinding down on his.

This is how you should have been spending your nights, not alone. But now you understood why, it was Bucky. You figure it’s always kinda been Bucky. He’s the one you were supposed to be with, and he already treats you better than Peter ever did. You were finally happy, almost happy enough to thank Peter for being a dumbass.. but not quite.

You’d worry about everything tomorrow, though, tonight you were going to see if those grey sweatpants were exaggerating his features.

They weren’t.

~~~~

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[nemobookaholic]

FrostIron Part 1

So I volunteered to write a FrostIron fanfic for @belligerentmistletoe , please let me know what you think. I’m always open to honest critique.

I hope it is going to be as much fun to read as I had writing it. Please excuse any typos or weird phrases, I’m not a native speaker.

Had to split it, cause I’m unable to write less than 6k it seems 🙈 I have to remind everyone, that I don’t own any rights to the characters. You read that on your own responsibility. Its a ship, so I don’t have to tell you what can and probably will happen. No violence to it tough. Enough talki-talki, enjoy.

LokixTony

We are at an alternative Timeline, in which Loki joined the Avengers, after he came to earth together with Thor. Thanos never interfered, so we find Loki wandering the Avengers Tower.

All the halls looked the same to him. He lost orientation some time ago, yet he would never admit that. Not to the people who crossed his path, with their ghastly looks and the mistrust they didn’t bother to hide. And when Romanoff and Barton turned the corner, he slipped into the next door hastily.

Loki found himself in a big room with large windows and a bar in it. The light was dimmed and in front of the counter he noticed a figure leaning onto it. Loki stepped closer to see who that was, it turned out to be Stark. And because the god had no other plans he decided to join him.

“I’m still waiting for that drink,” Loki said, sitting down on a barstool next to Stark.

The mechanic was staring at an empty glass, playing with it, as if he would think about what decision to make.

“Your bad, I stopped drinking a long time ago,” Tony answered after a while, as if he would just realise the presence of the god.

“Then why do you look like you would yearn for one?”

“That’s none of your business,” Tony said, turning away gazing out the window.

“Hard day, hmmm? May I help myself to a drink?” Loki asked politely and Tony nodded absent minded. The god made his way round the counter to get himself a glass, which he filled with whiskey. He sat back to his former place and sipped from his drink now and then. The two men sat in silence for some time.

“You know that nearly the whole crew was against having you in the team?” Tony interrupted the quietness.

“I didn’t expect anything else,” Loki shrugged his shoulders, “what is your opinion on the matter?”

“Hmmm,” Tony started playing with the glass again, “to be honest, I’m not happy either. But as I have experienced it myself, I know that people have the capacity to change.” He scratched his head, “I think you deserve a second chance. Anyway, that doesn’t mean I would trust you,” he admitted.

“Fair enough,” the god emptied his glass. “So what made you hide in here? Did Rogers ask for a private conversation?” Loki chuckled.

Tony groaned, “it’s my fathers birthday.”

“And you have no ambitions to get to see him?”

“He’s dead. Steve’s friend ensured that and like you, he’s part of the team now.” Tony dropped his head into both his hands, “seems like everyone deserves forgiveness, even mass murderers. No offence.”

“I’m sorry for your loss Anthony,” said Loki. If Tony would have looked up, he would have seen that the god wasn’t.

“No need to be sorry. Howard was an asshole,” Tony slammed his fist onto the table.

“Then why do you even bother?” Loki raised an eyebrow.

“Would you not, if someone killed your parents?” Tony mumbled the words to his glass.

“I would give everything to get my mother back and to bring revenge for her death. For the Allfather? I would send a letter of appreciation,” Loki smirked. “Unfortunately I have to send it to myself.” The god wasn’t in full control of his facial expressions and for once more they proved him a liar. Tony gave no reaction to it, so Loki felt encouraged to go on. “He was a miserable father most of the time. You know, kidnappet me from my realm. Promised me a throne that he never intended to give to me,” the longer he talked, the more agitated he got. “I never understood why he took me away from my home in the first place. To make me feel like a freak, once I discovered my true nature?” Slowly the illusion slipped away. His skin turned blue, the eyes red. When he realised he had unmasked himself, he turned back to his human appearance in an instance.

“In the end he was just an old man full of regrets,” Loki ended his monologue.

Tony let out a loud snore.

“Anthony?”, Loki asked in surprise.

“He’s asleep Sir,” a bodiless female voice informed him.

“Thank you for pointing out the obvious,” Loki rolled his eyes, “well, I’m sorry my story seemed to bore him that much.” The god jut his chin forward.

“If that’s a comfort Sir, he was tired the whole day. The fight with Miss Potts made it even worse,” Friday explained.

Loki slid down the barstool and stepped towards Tony.

“Can you explain to me how to find his bedroom?” he asked.

Friday gave him directions, while Loki lifted Tony into his arms. He just hoped that nobody would see him. Not because he would be ashamed of carrying another man, but because of the general distrust that was brought to his person.

The AI woman followed him, to assure that her boss would make it back to his room safely. Not even a humanoid person trusted him, if that wasn’t good news!

Carefully the god placed the fragile human into the sheets. Loki kneeled down to untie Tony’s shoes and placed them on the ground.

He even ensured to pull the blanket over the mechanic's body.

Loki hesitated a second, somehow he liked Stark. With a soft touch to his fingertips he brushed some stray hair out of the other man's face.

Loki turned away and made his way back to the bar. He felt the urgent need for a bottle of wine, or better two.

***

Tony opened his eyes, because the sun was beaming directly into his face.

How did he even get to bed? He couldn’t remember.

“Friday, please tell me I didn’t do anything stupid yesterday night?” he asked into the void.

“No sir. But I’m afraid your company has,” she answered.

“My comp—oh fuck! I was with Loki, wasn’t I?” he didn’t bother to wait for an answer, “where is he now?”

“Shop floor,” was the hesitant answer.

“You let him in?!” Tony flared.

“Mr. Laufeyson has been very charming,” came the snippy answer.

“How could he charm you, you’re not even a real person,” Tony grumbled.

“But he treated me like one.”

“Remind me to look over your coding,” he said.

“Yes Sir.”

Tony made his way through the maze of floors on the Avengers Tower until he reached his sanctuary. When he stepped inside his feet shoved a bottle on the ground. It slid away, crashing into more empty glass.

“What the fuck?” he raised his arms in disbelief.

The scene was like a bad comic. Loki lay in the middle of the room, surrounded by wine bottles. The gods head popped up when he heard Tony enter.

“Aaaanthony,” he beamed at the new arrival.

“Are you drunk? I didn’t think it was possible, according to how much Thor can drink,” Tony slapped his hands onto his cheeks and let them slide down his face.

“He had about twenty bottles Sir,” Friday informed him.

“Twenty?!” Tony looked onto the mess on the floor, “and why did he drink them in here?”

“I couldn’t find the corkscrew,” Loki babbled.

“And so what? You decided to use a hammer instead?”, Tony shouted, which made Loki twist his mouth in pain.

“It was a screwdriver to be accurate,” Loki corrected him.

“How did that even work?” Tony was shaking his head, “anyway, don’t you have a place to go back to?”

“Of course, it seems like I’m the guest who stayed too long. My apologies, I’ll leave immediately,” Loki pushed himself back onto his feet. Not without some effort to keep his balance.

“If you give me the address, I can call you an Uber,” Tony offered, without hiding the annoyance in his voice.

“No need for that,” Loki assured, pointing at his boots.

Tony looked at him, as if the god had lost his wit.

“Darling, would you mind opening a window for me?” Loki asked the ceiling.

“Not at all Sir,” Friday answered. Instantly one of the big windows slid open. Meanwhile Tony had crossed his arms, watching the scene in disbelief.

Loki clicked his heels together like little Dorothy and started walking on thin air. His seven league boots had proved great benefit to him over the years.

“Those god’s and their magic stuff,” Tony mumbled to himself jealously, looking at the god’s back. “Uh-oh,” he gasped, the second Loki reached the window. The god had stepped way too close to the ceiling, but as he had turned his head to give a superior smile towards Tony, he didn’t see the mural. His head collided with the wall and he fell over backwards. With a nasty sound, Loki smashed onto the ground.

“Oh for heaven's sake, Thor is going to kill me!” The mechanic ran to the god’s side, checking if he was fine.

“Vital signs stable Sir,” Friday informed him, “I scanned his body, it’s nothing but a cut on the forehead.”

“Fucking drunkard,” Tony had troubles not to slap Loki while he was already on the floor.

“Ouch—where did that mural come from?” Loki said with a raspy voice.

“It was there all the time you jerk,” Tony was rolling his eyes.

“Maybe I better take that Uber?” Loki rubbed his forehead, smearing blood all over it.

“First of all, we need to look after this cut,” Tony commanded.

“It’s nothing. I don’t want to bother you any longer Anthony,” Loki said, getting up again.

“You stubborn…” Tony began.

“It will heal,” Loki interrupted him.

“Yes, after you spilled blood all over the floor,” Tony grabbed him by the shoulder. With one fast move he had sprayed something onto the cut. It cooled the throbbing wound in an instant which took Loki by surprise.

“What was that?” Loki asked.

“Something to close the cut. Now tell me where your brother is?”

Loki was shrugging his shoulders, “I don’t know.”

“Didn’t he tell you where he wanted to go?”

“No—by chance I would think he’s stalking Miss Foster again,” a smirk appeared on the god’s face.

Tony hid his face in his hand, he had no clue Thor expected him to play babysitter. “You can stay if you want to,” he sighted.

“I’d prefer to sleep in my own bed.” Loki was brushing his bloody hands on his pants.

“Fine, I’ll drive you!” Tony snapped at him.

“Please, I don’t want to be a burden for you. I’ll find my way back home on my own,” Loki bitched back.

Tony ignored him, “Friday, make sure the Audi is waiting for us.”

“Yes Sir.”

***

Loki’s flat was surprisingly ordinary. Tony would have expected it to be an opulent palace with shiny gold statues showing the god’s counterfeit. One could almost call it minimalist. There wasn’t even much furnishings but a sofa opposite a TV and a big bookshelf covering the wall next to the door. That’s all Tony could see when stepping in. There was a corridor to his right but he felt uncomfortable exploring it without permission.

The polite god had had a feeling that there wasn’t any chance to get rid of his Nanny, so he asked Tony in.

Loki offered him a place on the sofa, but the mechanic disliked sitting down, he preferred to browse the bookshelf.

“Make yourself at home, please. The kitchen you’ll find next door, if you want something to drink. If you could excuse me for a while, I need to have a shower now,” Loki said, disappearing down the corridor.

Tony was fascinated by the books, some of them were written in languages he had never seen before. But also there were many classics he did know, like Shakespeare (at least it must be familiar to Asgardians, as they used this sort of language), Dante, Goethe and many more. Tony randomly grabbed one of the books and pulled out an old, leather bound copy of the Norse Myths.

‘Why would Loki want to read his own tales?’ Tony wondered. He made his way to the sofa and sat down, flipping through the pages. He found notes, scribbled in a child like writing to the side of the text.

One said: ‘After studying Shakespeare, I wonder if he used Valstagg as a role model for his Falstaff? Utter fun.’

Tony was frowning his brows. He had read the Myths before, yet he was interested in seeing them through the god’s eyes, so he started from the beginning. At some point Loki came back in, bringing with him two freezing cans of Coke. He handed one to Tony, when he sank into the pillows next to him.

The mechanic didn’t even bother to look at him, missing the fact that Loki was wearing nothing but boxer shorts. Loki sipped his drink, watching Tony with some interest. After a while he placed the can onto the small table in front of him and let his body sink deeper into the sofa. Loki’s head tipped over to the back, leaning against the wall. He had dark spaces underneath his eyes, the twenty bottles had taken their toll him. Loki fell asleep.

Tony wouldn’t have realised that either, if Loki didn’t sink onto the mechanics shoulder.

“Hey,” Tony tried to push Loki away with one hand. With the effect that Loki’s head landed in Tony’s lap, what made him look down at the god.

“Sweet Jesus, couldn’t you find a T-Shirt?” Tony shifted uncomfortably. Never had he imagined the guy would be so heavy. There was no chance to free himself. Tony sighted, finally he made himself as comfortable as possible and read on.

He was absorbed by the story, when, without his doing, Tony’s hand found its way into Loki’s hair, running his finger through it. The mechanic did that quite a while, until Loki turned around facing the opposite side. Tony got aware of what he was doing. Shocked, he stared at his hand.

Did he just pet another man?! And why did it feel so natural?

He shook the thought off. That was all because of the fight with Pepper, he told himself. He should phone her and apologise. But at this very moment he had no intention to do so. His attention was focused on the god in his lap. Observing Loki’s face this close for the first time, he realised how young he looked. That there was some sadness to it, but also an innocent peace in his sleep.

Tony felt the urge to trace Loki’s cheekbones with his index finger.

Trying to resist, he couldn’t tell how much time had passed. The light was fading slowly, when Loki opened his eyes again. He looked surprised about the delicate situation he found himself in.

Tony was bowing over him, with his face so close that Loki could feel the other man's breath on his cheek.

“Uuuhm, Anthony?” he whispered.

That woke Tony from his rigidity, he shied back.

“You wouldn’t wake up…,” he tried to explain, yet he couldn’t help but stare at Loki’s lips.

What the fuck was wrong with him?!

“I need to pee,” Tony stuttered just to get away from Loki.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” the god sat back up.

In an instant Tony was on his feet, heading towards the bathroom. It wasn’t a lie that he had to pee. The Coke wanted to leave his system.

Fiddling for his zipper he froze.

That couldn’t be true! Did he build a tent in his trousers for a guy who once tried to kill him?

Even worse, did Loki realise he had?

Tony felt panic creeping up his chest. Taking some huge effort, he fought the panic down, forcing himself to empty his full bladder.

The mechanic flushed the toilet, turning around to wash his hands. He splashed cold water to his face, tearing out his hair with wet hands.

Tony was desperate about his unusual behaviour. How had Loki managed to charm him? It must have been a spell, there was no other explanation to this awkward situation.

‘I am a straight man, I am a straight man, I am a…’ Tony kept repeating his Mantra.

Well of course there had been some experiments in College, but nothing that ended up to be serious.

When he found he had cooled down, he went back to the living room.

“I just got a call, I need to leave,” he told Loki, staying away as far as possible. He turned towards the door, his fingers already on the door handle, as he felt the god’s hand closing on his wrist, holding him back.

“Uhm, you’ve been my first guest…and, I…thank you for visiting my place,” Loki said, looking at the floor.

Tony opened his mouth in surprise. This day couldn’t get any weirder.

“Thanks for having me,” Tony replied with a little smile, “I really have to go now,” he insisted and Loki let go of his arm.

***

Stark had been in such a hurry to leave, that Loki wondered if he had done something wrong. He was laying on the sofa again, breathing in Tony’s scent that was still lingering there. It reminded the god of machine oil and iron with something fruity to it, but Loki couldn’t figure out what it was.

Did Stark intend to kiss him?

Loki couldn’t tell. The only thing he knew was that he would have allowed him to, this very moment. He wanted it as he saw Tony’s eyes resting on his lips. That’s what worried him most. What would Thor say, if he’d know?

Probably something like: “I knew Stark first,” that made Loki laugh deep down in his throat.

At times he missed his brother, yet he knew why Thor left him here. The god of thunder wanted Loki to get along with everyone on his own. And Thor had to care for New Asgard of course. But they had agreed not to give away too much about it right now.

Loki was the one to stay in New York and keep an eye on the doings of the Avengers.

Yet he wanted to be with Tony for very different reasons.

The mechanic dominated his thoughts and made a new desire grow within him. One he wasn’t sure he ever felt before.

[romewritingshop]

Wake up Parker! Chapter Fourteen: Rivals know better

Relationship: Peter Parker x Tall Older Reader (Peter is 22 and Reader is 26/27)

Warnings: Acknowledging feelings

Word Count Total: 1878 (This Chapter)

Tagged: @bggerbtch @technicallykawaiisoul

Summary: Peter Parker is a student in the city of Brooklyn. He’s lazy, spoilt and he procrastinates a lot. He meets a woman named (Y/N), She’s recently moved to Brooklyn for an independent life. Something Peter is fascinated by. Over the course of a few months, Peter needs to realise that he has to grow up and become responsible for his life.

WAKE UP PARKER! MASTERLIST

“Moving to a new place isn’t easy, but once you take the first step of saying: “Yes you can!” It gets easier. Trust me on this.”

(Y/N) tapped her fingers against the metal table, eyes darting between the paper in Clint’s hand and his facial expression. After three days, she was finally able to finish the article. She was anxious for Clint’s reaction, hoping that if it was enough to impress him, it would impress Mr. Barnes. Clint put down the paper and took a look at his friend. She straightened her posture and adjusted her black jumper.

“Well?”

Clint held up a finger and finished off his quinoa salad, taking a sip of his water and turned to (Y/N) with a bright smile.

“I think it’s great. It’s clear and I feel your personality from your words. It’s powerful. Why are you not a writer?”

(Y/N) smiles before she slaps Clint’s arm.

“Did you have to make me wait for your praise?”

Clint rubbed his arm.

“Yeah! I had to get some food in me before I could vocally express my admiration.”

She gave a nod and spotted Mr. Barnes from across the room, talking to Steve.

“Do you think Mr. Barnes will like it?”

“He’d have to be an asshole not to like it. You should go show him now.”

(Y/N) gave a nod and stood up with purpose. Clutching to the single sheet article and walking away from the break room towards Mr. Barnes. He finishes his conversation with Steve and spots (Y/N) heading towards him. Just the person he needed.

“(Y/N)! Good, can you get me my coffee and then I need to see you in my office to start the layout plan for the fashion section?”

(Y/N) gave a nod and followed Mr. Barnes to his office, trying to get his attention. He stopped in front of his office door and glanced back at (Y/N), seeing she had a paper in her hand.

“Mr. Barnes, I wrote this article and wanted your feedback, if you get a moment.”

“(Y/N) can I please get my coffee?”

She gave a nod and Mr. Barnes went into his office and closed the door. Surely he was busy and he’s always grumpy without coffee. She took a deep breath and went back to the break room to get Mr. Barnes some coffee.

Meanwhile, Peter was at home lazing around again. Three days and he hasn’t seen the outside world. Peter went to the kitchen and took a hard look at the eggs in the fridge. His worst enemy as he picked an egg up and examined the shape. He could never understand why it was so difficult to crack an egg but he did not want to risk a mess. This time he would go out and eat. He quickly got dressed into a Rick and Morty print t-shirt and dark jeans, grabbing his rucksack and the house keys to head out to a restaurant. 

The fresh air was doing Peter wonders and he was regretting staying indoors. Looking at the various sized buildings, he spotted a small restaurant. The logo was a man in a white apron tossing a pizza and smiling. Peter rolled his eyes at the obnoxious logo but was intrigued to go in, pushing the door and slipping into the place. He felt like he had been transported into Italy as he looked around at the stone and wooden designs. A man standing by the host podium, comes around it and smiles at Peter.

“Hello! My name is Luis and I’m your host for today. We have a table over there so if you’d like to take a seat and then we’ll come around to take your order.”

Peter gave a nod and followed Luis’s direction to a small single table, taking a seat and flipping through a menu to see what’s to eat. As he looked at the menu, he noticed groups of people laughing and smiling. Peter felt a little lonely as he thought back to his college friends and the time he shouted at them. He shook his head and called a waiter over to give his order. Half an hour later, Peter ate a whole pizza and some garlic knots. He was content with the food and the waiter came to take his credit card.

“Guys! Don't worry. This is my treat, I'll pay.”

Peter raised an eyebrow at the familiar voice and turned towards the window to see Wanda and some girls with her. Shit! Wanda! She seems to have noticed him as her smile falters and Peter turns away, fascinated by the salt shaker on his table. A waiter comes back to him and holds a small black wallet to Peter.

“Sir, your card has been declined.”

Peter’s eyes widened as he took a look at the card and double checked with the waiter. He gave a solemn nod and Peter put the card away. Shuffling through his wallet and realising he doesn’t have any cash to pay for his meal. He was about to apologise when Wanda came over with her purse.

“That's ok. I'll pay for him.”

Peter was surprised his worst enemy was offering to pay for his meal. Peter felt bad as he turned to Wanda.

“Wanda, that's really sweet of you. Thank you so much. I'll pay you back.”

“Peter it's okay. Save the ‘I’m grateful’ speech for another time. It doesn't suit you.” The waiter took her payment and walked off to the cash counter. “Anyways, I just got a job so I'm treating all my friends to lunch.”

Peter smiled as he pointed out the obvious.

“Not exactly friends, are we?”

“No. Not exactly. I'm sorry that you failed, Peter. Just wanted to say that.”

There was the old Wanda as she gave him pity. There was one thing Peter wanted to know as he called out to Wanda.

“Hey Wanda, why do you hate me so much?”

She stopped and turned to glance at Peter, the events running clear through her memory.

“Three years ago, I came to Brookly to join our college. I had the right grades, but I was late with my application. I was in the admin office, having an interview with the head of Economics. She got a phone call from a ‘Tony Stark’. Told me to wait outside and I heard her talk to Mr. Stark about you. I almost didn’t get my place because you took my seat, Peter. 

“The admin officer called me in and said that they couldn’t take in anymore students and that I’d have to try again next year. I was lucky that the week before college was meant to start, someone dropped out of the course and I got their place. I’m smarter, I work harder, and I'm more deserving than you. But life has always been easier for you, hasn't it? Think about that carefully, Peter.”

Wanda walked off to her group of friends as Peter took a moment to let her words sink in. She was right, she was more deserving than him but being Mr. Stark’s son has its perks. Mr. Stark really did his best to offer Peter the best of life and Peter was too much of a brat to see that.

After the lunch, Peter decided to head back to (Y/N)’s apartment to lament over Wanda’s words. He trudged up the stairs and spotted the last person he thought he’d see. Michelle. She was standing by the front door with a big black bag of things as Peter frowned. He shoved a hand into his pocket and pulled (Y/N)’s house keys. Pushing them into the lock and opening the door and letting Michelle into the house. Tossing the house keys on top of the drawer on the left of him and dropping his rucksack on the dining table.

“Michelle, what are you doing here?”

“I came to ask you to go home. Mrs. Stark is worried about you.”

Peter felt anger rise in him as he was reminded about the night he left and the moment when his friends passed and he didn’t. He didn’t want to go back and prove Mr. Stark was right about the fact that Peter was useless and lazy. Never amounting to anything successful as Peter sat on the dining table with his arms crossed and his gaze away from Michelle’s face. She closed the front door and stood a meter away from Peter as he refused.

“No.”

“But Pete, you have to go home some time!”

“He cancelled my credit card, Michelle. There's no way I'm going back now.”

“But he's just angry, Pete. Just like you. The both of you messed up. You need to understand from his side.”

Peter did not need ‘Graduate’ Michelle Jones telling him what to do. He brought his head with eyes blaring.

“You're the one who doesn't understand, Michelle! You topped the whole damn college. How can you know what it feels like to have failed? Just leave me alone!”

Michelle felt her anger flare up. Every single time Michelle has always excused Peter’s bratty behaviour but this time he had gone too far. Way too far and assumed that she had no feelings.

“Fuck off Peter! I don't know what it feels like to fail? I fail every time I go home and see my dad praise my brother for getting an ‘A’ in his maths test. When it comes to me he says: ‘You got 95% on your economics exam, Michelle! You can do better than that.’ You’re lucky your dad pushes you to do the best and that he cares about you!

This is the first time in my life I have succeeded through my hard work. I have to work twice as hard to get half of what you get Peter. You're not the only one with problems, so stop being a jerk! If you really want to know, I didn’t get the internship with Quentin Beck. Something my dad expected.”

Michelle heaved heavily as she watched Peter’s face, his mouth gawping like a fish. Peter had sensed that Michelle and her dad had tension but he hadn’t realised that it was because her dad couldn’t care about his daughter’s success. Peter felt really stupid as Michelle glared at him. He closed his mouth and rubbed the back of his neck.

“I’m. I’m sorry Michelle.”

“It’s fine. I got a better job offer at the Xavier institute.”

“I know I'm being a jerk.”

Michelle smiled and reached into her rucksack and pulled out an orange coloured file, handing it to Peter. Peter flicked through the file, listening to Michelle’s words.

“You are a jerk but it’s okay. You do know you can always try again. That's why I got this for you. College application form and some of your things.” She offered the black bag and Peter went through it. “I knew you wouldn't go back home. Just thought I'd try.”

“Thanks.”

Michelle smiled as she watched Peter pick out all his games and magazines before picking out his camera. Examining it and smiling as he realised he could take photos again.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN: THE BREAKING POINT

[honeypiehotchner]

Beautiful Stranger (Chris Evans x OFC) -- part thirteen

Hello, I come bearing an extra-long chapter (3.5k words, in case you wanted to know) full of fluff and of course, angst. The gif is 100% stolen from a Google search because my tumblr is glitching and wouldn’t show me any gifs??? But it’s from his movie Before We Go.

Warnings: This isn’t a serious trigger warning, but it is a trigger warning. Toward the end of the chapter, there are mentions/talks that allude to a suicide attempt/that kind of dark mindset. Please be safe as you read xx.

Jack might have a heart attack. I’m genuinely concerned that he might.

I told Camile and Jack to come to my apartment first. Mainly because I’d rather walk them to Chris’s apartment than have them get lost trying to find it. I also need Jack to get all of his questions and excitement out of his system before we go over to Chris’s.

“Will there be wine?” Camile asks, leaning against the doorway to my bedroom while I grab some stuff.

“Probably,” I shrug. “Do you want some? I’m sure he can get some.”

Camile gives me a look.

“What?”

“Nothing,” she smiles. “Just glad to see you so happy.”

“Stop that,” I scold her quietly, flipping the light off and backing her back out into the living room, where Jack is practically vibrating with excitement from my couch. “Hey Jack.”

“Hey!” He says, a little too loudly, and stands, a wide grin on his face. “Is it really Chris Evans?”

“Jack,” I chuckle, shaking my head. “You know I love you, but you’re going to have to calm down.”

“I’m calm.”

Camile gives her soulmate a pointed look. “Honey.”

“What?” Jack counters. “I’m calm.”

“Okay, well,” I sigh. “I need you to get all of this,” I wave my hands around, “out of your system. Please?”

“Okay,” he takes a deep breath. “So, it’s really Chris Evans?”

I roll my eyes. “Yes, it is. It’s really Chris Evans, Captain America, Steve...Rogers?”

Jack’s eyes widen. “You don’t even know?”

“Okay, please, don’t,” I laugh. “It’s not a big deal. My soulmate is Chris Evans, not Captain America.” I pause. “Scarlett and Sebastain are coming, too, just a warning.”

“Oh, Camile told me,” he waves his hand, trying to play it cool. “I won’t pass out.”

“Are you serious?”

“Yes-- No. I’ll be fine.” He shakes his hands out. “When are we going?”

I check the time and shrug a little. “I’m cool with going now if you’re ready.”

“I’m ready,” he gives both of us a look like we’re the crazy ones.

“If you say so,” Camile walks over and smooths her hands down his arm, linking her fingers with his. “You’re not going to pass out.”

He nods firmly. “I’m not going to pass out.”

+++

Jack almost passes out.

Well, he really doesn’t come close. He does go pale and freeze, though. Which causes Chris to have some mild concern.

“Is he gonna be okay?” Chris asks, whispering right into my ear -- which he really shouldn’t do because let’s just say it makes me want to tackle him in the least appropriate way possible.

But I keep myself under control. “Yeah,” I nod. “Give him a minute.”

Meanwhile, Dodger is jumping on Jack’s legs, and I swear the dog has magical soothing powers, because it breaks Jack’s frozen state enough for him to join the conscious world again.

Once Jack stands, he’s still got the deer in the headlights looking at him, but he actually looks Chris in the eyes. “Hi.”

Chris has to try not to lose it and laugh right there. I shove his shoulder when I hear his noise of resistance.

“Hey man,” Chris sticks out his hand. “It’s nice to finally meet you.”

“Finally?” Jack asks, shaking Chris’s hand. “You know about me?”

“Sure,” Chris shows his blinding smile, slipping his arm around my waist. “She talks about you guys a lot.” He presses a kiss to the side of my head and I try my hardest not to blush.

He didn’t even kiss me when we got here and it made me question my decision of coming over with Jack and Camile instead of having them find his place.

“A lot, huh?” Camile teases.

“I told him how you Googled him and Instagram-stalked him,” I snicker.

“I have zero shame,” she counters.

“Scarlet and Seb should be over any minute,” Chris interjects. “Dinner is in the oven and on the stove, but you guys can move the party to the living room.”

“Oh, it’s a party now?” I joke.

“A very small party,” he clarifies. “Wanna help me with dinner?”

I see the hint of another question in his eyes, so I nod. “Of course.”

Camile and Jack run off with Dodger into the living room while Chris tugs me by the hand into the kitchen. He waits until we’re around the wall to pull me closer, nudging my nose with his.

“Can I kiss you?” He asks, then flicks his eyes to meet mine.

“Please.”

That’s all he needs to hear and I swear I hear him sigh in relief when he presses his lips to mine, his hands cradling my face. My hands have a mind of their own, smoothing over his chest and shoulders, wrapping around his neck when he shifts to wrap his arms around my waist, pulling me impossibly closer. 

The timer on the stove interrupts us, and scares Chris a little because I feel him when he flinches, pulling away with a laugh. “Duty calls.”

“Mm, does it have to?”

He pecks my lips once before turning around, checking whatever it is in the oven. “Unless I want the smoke alarm going off, then unfortunately it does.”

“Fine,” I pout, mostly in jest. “How was your day?”

“Good,” he nods, turning back around to face me. “Had to go in for some reshoots, but they just took an hour.”

I furrow my eyebrows. “Why’d you have to reshoot?”

He smiles, steps closer and grabs my hands. “Someone,” he says softly, leaning in until he’s so close to my ear it might as well be sinful, “was laughing and it showed on my face.”

“I’m sure that someone is very sorry,” I chuckle.

He shakes his head. “She shouldn’t be.”

I raise an eyebrow. “No?”

He shakes his head again. “No.” He kisses my forehead tenderly, his smile infectious. “I never want to stop hearing you laugh.”

“Cheeseball,” I chuckle, smiling up at him. “I never wanna stop hearing you laugh either.”

Just like that, he’s pulling me back in for another kiss, hands smoothing over my back and pressing me closer to him. You’d think he hasn’t seen me in more than a few days with the way he’s kissing me.

“Alright, alright, break it up, you two.”

Chris pulls away and the only way I can describe his face is annoyed as he looks at whoever spoke. I turn my neck and find the culprit, and it’s none other than Sebastian Stan.

“The infamous Sebastian,” I snicker, turning around to face him.

“Infamous?” Sebastian grins wide, eyes twinkling. “I like her already. You must be the infamous Eva.”

“In the flesh,” I nod, feeling Chris’s arms loop around my waist. “Where’s Scarlett?”

“Right here,” she says when she rounds the corner, bottle of wine in hand. “I brought wine.”

“A woman after my own heart,” I breathe, stepping out of Chris’s arms to give her a hug around her neck. “How’d you know?”

“Wine is always needed,” she replies seriously.

Camile and Jack come filtering into the kitchen, Jack looking just about as pale as he did when he met Chris, causing me to chuckle.

“Scarlett, Seb, this is my best friend Camile and her soulmate, Jack,” I gesture to the couple. “Jack is a super fan, so give him a few minutes.”

“He’ll warm up in a second,” Camile promises. “It’s so nice to meet you guys.”

“It’s nice to finally meet you!” Scarlett gives Camile a hug. “Chris has told me about you. You stalked him on Instagram?”

“You told her about that?” I give him a look.

“It was so funny,” he admits. “Scarlett got it out of me.”

“Of course she did,” I tease, and she winks.

“Well, I approve,” Scarlett nods firmly. “I’ve done the same to all my friends. Big shot or not, I have to know everything.”

“Anyone else feeling a little uncomfortable being stalked?” Sebastian holds up his hand, but his smile stretches across his lips.

“Oh, shut up, Seb, you deserve to be Googled,” Chris interjects.

“The slander,” Seb places a hand over his heart, looking to me for help. “Are you hearing this?” 

I nod. “I’m hearing it.”

Chris laughs loudly, his arm resting around my waist to tug me in for a kiss on my temple. The small gesture is enough to make me blush and bite back a smile.

Scarlett shoos us all into the living room, leaving Sebastian and Chris with Jack, who has slowly come back to us. Scarlett brings the wine with her, and Chris brings glasses a moment later, kissing the top of my head one last time before disappearing into the kitchen.

I flash a smile to him over my shoulder as he goes.

And as soon as he’s gone, Scarlett is pouring wine and handing me a glass. “Spill. All details.”

“What?”

Camile nods vigorously. “Took the words right out of my mouth. Spill.”

“What am I spilling?” I ask, taking a sip of the wine. Chris must’ve told her my favorite is white. This is good.

“Details!” Camile urges, tapping my knee. “He’s kissed you by now, hasn’t he?”

“He better,” Scarlett chimes, handing Camile a glass of wine. “If he hasn’t, he’s practically all over you already--”

“He has!” I confess, wanting to end that sentence before it got even wilder. “Okay? We have. We were,” I lower my voice, a heat settling over my cheeks, “making out when he pulled me into the kitchen earlier.”

“I knew it!” Camile almost yells, pointing an accusatory finger my way. “When did he?” She pauses. “And why didn’t you tell me?”

“Sorry,” I smile, feeling bad now. “Just...slipped my mind, I guess. I wanted-- I don’t know, to keep it to myself, I guess? It felt too-- Oh, this is stupid.”

“No, it’s not,” Scarlett interrupts. “It’s sweet. Chris didn’t tell any of us either, not even me, and I usually get all the secrets.”

“Really?”

She nods. “Chris and I have known each other way too long. And when I say way too long, I mean way too long.”

I snicker into my glass. “He’s told me. He said you call him out on his bullshit.”

“Damn right I do!” Scarlett laughs. “You know, before he met you, he was on set one day and could barely focus. And it was because he hadn’t heard you that day, and he was so down because he was so worried about you. All it took was me telling him that you hadn’t heard him either if he was moping around, and then he quit it.”

“I remember that day,” I think a little. “I hadn’t heard from him. I mean, that wasn’t why I wasn’t laughing, but it was strange not hearing from him. I felt a little better when I did. So, thanks for that,” I tease, nudging her arm.

In our lull, we hear Jack laugh loudly about something the guys must’ve said, and Camile visibly sighs in relief.

“I was wondering when he’d get comfortable,” she shakes her head. “I’m just glad he didn’t pass out.”

“Me too,” I chuckle.

“Was that Jack?” Scarlett asks.

Camile nods, listening for a moment, hearing them talking about something. “He’s thawed out now, I guess.”

I hear Chris say, “Watch this,” before I hear the familiar clicks of Dodger’s paws against the kitchen tile. I roll my eyes, knowing Chris is showing off Dodger’s tricks to Jack. Hearing Jack’s voice though, sounding much closer to how he normally sounds, makes it worth it.

+++

Dinner comes and goes, everyone enjoying Chris’s cooking -- and Camile making some comment about how lucky I am to have a man that cooks, earning her a look of hurt from Jack. He’s never been able to cook, and burns even toast. It’s a running joke.

We retire to the living room, Dodger asleep on my lap with his head on Chris’s knee. We’ve slowed down on the wine, not wanting to get completely drunk off our ass, but the buzz is a little nice.

It’s reminiscent of the buzz I had when I first met Chris, and I tell him.

“Oh, I remember,” Camile interjects. “We had been out at dinner and had...too much wine.”

“You didn’t look drunk,” Chris offers.

“I wasn’t drunk,” I defend. “Just buzzed.”

“You didn’t tell me she ran off the elevator!” Sebastian smacks Chris’s arm. “That’s like the opposite of the normal effect you have on women.”

Chris shoves his friend’s shoulder. “Fuck off.”

“It’s fine,” I nudge his ribs. “I’m not oblivious to you being a ladies’ man.”

“Just yours,” he assures me, pressing a kiss to my temple.

“Yeah, yeah, I know.”

“You guys disgust me,” Seb says, but he’s grinning around the neck of his beer bottle, and says, “Hey!” when Scarlett reaches over and shoves the back of his head.

“I think you’re adorable,” Scarlett corrects him. “And I’m really glad you found each other. Chris was about to drive me crazy.”

“I was not,” he groans.

“Man, you were,” Seb confirms. “He couldn’t focus. I swear, it was like pulling teeth trying to get him to snap out of it.”

“Wait, Bucky and Steve have scenes together?”

Jack’s question brings all conversation to a halt. We had honestly all forgotten he is as big of a fan as he is because he finally settled into himself as the night went on -- and as he had a beer or two.

Seb glances back and forth between me, Chris, and Jack. “Uh.”

“You can’t say anything anywhere,” I blurt, knowing how serious spoilers are. “You can’t even-- Please, don’t go talking about this dinner at work, either, please.”

“Okay,” Jack nods seriously. “No problem. Never mind.” He pauses. “I want to be surprised when I see the movie, anyway, so no spoilers.”

“Don’t need to worry about that,” Sebastian chuckles awkwardly. “I barely know what’s going on.”

“And Chris never talks about it,” I tease.

“I don’t like coming home and talking about being a movie star,” he replies, shrugging his shoulders. “I like to just be normal.”

“He also doesn’t get the full script,” Scarlett juts in, earning laughs all around.

“Wait, so that’s true? They don’t give you guys the full script?” Camile asks. “I thought it was some rumor to make it more mysterious.”

“It’s mysterious, that’s for sure,” Scarlett nods. “We get blacked out scripts and things. It’s weird.”

“How do you even know what to do?”

“We wing it,” Seb winks.

“That’s not comforting at all,” I joke. “Maybe now I know why I never watched the movies.”

“You never watched them because you told me Chris was too hot.”

“That’s not what I said!” I give Camile a look. “Not what I said.”

“What did you say?” She grins.

“Okay,” I breathe, glancing over at Chris’s blinding smile. “Oh, don’t look so pleased with yourself,” I roll my eyes at Chris’s expression. “I just said that you were too… Okay, Camile said you were my ‘type’ or whatever that means, but I said I didn’t have the time to get...involved.”

“Involved?” Chris’s curious tone is enough, but then everyone else looks curious, too, and I really don’t want to explain this any further.

“I used to fantasize about...people I found attractive a lot because I didn’t know you yet,” I gesture to Chris, “and because I wasn’t-- This isn’t supposed to be dark, this is supposed to be fun!” I protest.

“It’s fine, we’ve all heard worse probably,” Seb shrugs. 

“You don’t have to,” Chris ignores his friend.

“Yeah,” Camile nods. “I’m sorry.”

“No, girl, you’re good,” I smile. “Point is, I thought you were too pretty,” I tease Chris. “Too pretty to watch the movies.”

“Who would’ve known that Chris’s good looks would steer viewers away?” Seb jokes.

And just like that, the party is back on track.

+++

Chris doesn’t bring it up again until after everyone has left, leaving just me, him, and Dodger in his apartment. I’m sitting on the kitchen counter with a glass of wine in hand while he loads the dishwasher -- he wouldn’t let me help -- when he finally asks.

“I knew you were going to ask,” I chuckle, hanging my head.

He stops putting the plate on the rack and gives me a serious look. “We don’t have to talk about it.”

“No, it’s okay,” I smile, sipping the wine. “It’s a little stupid.”

“No, I doubt it’s stupid.” Chris plays Tetris with the pans and plates. “But we really don’t have to talk about it. I just wanted to check on you.”

“I’m okay,” I pause. “It’s just-- I mean, I told you already that I never really thought I’d ever find my soulmate -- that I’d be better off just...staying alone.”

“Yeah,” he nods.

“Well, I mean, my parents never really...had a good relationship, I guess. A lot of screaming, a lot of fighting, a lot of wishing they’d never met.” I focus on my wine, swirling it in the glass. “It gave me this really bad connection to soulmates and it was about a year or two ago, I think, when Camile showed me your face. Well, Steve’s face, it was your first movie. I barely saw a glimpse and I’ve never heard of this happening but I just felt something. I don’t know, but whatever it was, it scared the shit out of me.

“I didn’t avoid watching the movies because I thought you were too pretty -- even-- even though I do,” I snicker, looking up to see he’s smiling a little, too. “I avoided it because I guess I had this subconscious fear that it really was you and that you did exist, and I didn’t like that feeling, even the idea of it. I talked myself out of it super quickly. Because I had never heard of anyone feeling the connection to their soulmate’s appearance, and because the idea, I guess, that I really did have a soulmate scared me.”

“I’m sorry…”

I shake my head. “It’s fine. I was in a really bad place at the time.”

“About a year ago?”

I look up at his question, nodding slowly. “Why?” His expression is unreadable, but I can tell he’s thinking.

“That makes a lot of sense.”

I don’t like the sound of that. “Why?”

“It was really-- You were really quiet a year ago. I thought I’d lost you.”

My heart feels like it physically broke. I didn’t even think about the fact that he would’ve been affected by that, too. I wasn’t thinking about a soulmate then, if I’m honest. I’d given up on the idea and just...given up on myself.

“I’m sorry,” I finally say, not wanting to meet his eyes anymore. “I-I didn’t think--”

“Hey, it’s okay,” he interrupts me, stepping forward to get me to look at him. “Are you okay now?”

“I’m a lot better now,” I nod seriously. “I’m sorry I was so quiet, I was...I wasn’t myself. You can ask Camile, even she was...worried.”

“Worried?”

Better to tell him now while we’re on the subject, than to let it almost slip out again at a a party.

“You didn’t lose me,” I say slowly, quietly. “But almost.”

“Almost?” Chris asks, taking another step closer. 

I finally look up, setting my glass to the side as I watch it all dawn on him. I watch the sadness swarm his eyes and I see his frown so deep I worry it’ll become permanent. And this was exactly what I didn’t want to happen. For him to look at me differently, for him to see maybe I’m not the soulmate he wanted -- or expected.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t know that year was-- I didn’t know you’d be able to feel that because I just wasn’t even thinking--”

My words are cut off by the weight of Chris’s arms around me, enveloping me in the warmest hug he’s ever given me. And maybe it’s the wine, maybe it’s the way he makes me feel, or maybe it’s a combination of everything, but tears well up in my eyes and spill over.

Chris’s hold on me tightens after I sniffle the first time, and then he’s kissing the top of my head while I’m sobbing into his shoulder.

“I’m sorry--”

“Shhh, stop,” Chris’s voice wavers. “Stop it.”

I squeeze my eyes shut, forcing more tears out. “I--”

“Stop,” he scolds gently. “You don’t need to say sorry to me. You were hurting. I just wish I--” He pauses, his voice breaking, and he takes a deep breath, his hand holding the back of my head. “I wish I knew you then so I could’ve helped you.”

I nod, not trusting my voice. I press my face into his neck, taking a deep breath, hating the way it shakes when I let it go.

“Stay tonight,” he says suddenly. “Please.”

I’m already feeling drained, but it doesn’t take any energy from me to reply. “Okay.”