My neighbour Rúben | Chapter 15
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“Another party?”
“Another party” Lucy said while closing the door behind her, the pizzas that had just been delivered on her hands. “That greasy friend of his was coming out of the lift with a girl on each arm.”
“Greasy?”
“Yes, that one who doesn’t know what an encyclopedia is.”
“Oh, you mean Grealish” I laughed.
“Same thing. He has greasy hair, so” she shrugged.
Rúben was throwing a party. Again. Like after every game at home they had had lately. It had become his new favourite thing to do once his parents and Ivan had left for Portugal to continue with his recovery there.
Most of them lasted until pretty late, but the walls were thick and neither Julia, nor her mum or I, were hearing things we didn’t want to hear. Though most mornings we would cross paths with a different girl leaving his apartment, and it was all because of me.
The moment I came back from London I went to speak with him, to tell him everything that had happened with Aaron. And he hadn't taken it very well.
“I knew something like this would happen after you hung up. I just knew it!”
“Rúben…”
“No! He took advantage of you, you know? You said it yourself, you have little to no experience with men. He noticed and took advantage of it.”
“He didn’t, Rúben. Like I told you already, I said yes to it, I did it willingly.”
“As if that made it any better” he snorted.
“Rúben…”
“I need to be alone” he said, storming out the door, those words being the last we shared.
“Anyway” Lucy said, bringing me back to the present. “What Chris Evans' movie are we watching today?”
“The Red Sea Diving Resort.”
While Rúben was partying and doing God knows why, this was what I had chosen to do to cope with what had happened between us: watch Chris Evans’ filmography while it was just Lucy and I at home. It probably was the worst decision ever because he kept reminding me of Rúben and because Chris is a bit… special picking roles. But the time we were spending together was priceless.
“It sounds… interesting.”
“People say it is boring, but I’ve seen gifs online and he looks so hot.”
“Then it’ll be worth it” Lucy said, handing me a beer. “To Chris Evans’ boobs.”
“And America’s ass” I laughed.
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“Yes, grandma. I’ll go.”
“This may be it, you know?”
“I know. That’s why I’m going. See you next week, ok?”
“Ok. Love you, sweetie.”
“Love you too” I said, hanging up and walking into the lift. The moment it started moving, it made some weird noises, and when I was almost on my floor, it stopped. “Oh, no. No, no, no. Please move.”
But it didn’t. The lift had stopped.
I pressed my floor’s button again, but nothing was happening. Well, not really. The lights were flickering.
“No, no, no, no!” I screamed, pressing the emergency button, hoping someone would answer or come see what was going on. But it wasn’t working. Julia had pressed it more than once and it usually made a ring noise. Not today.
And then, the lights went off. I was in complete darkness.
“This can’t be happening. No, no, no” I said again, unlocking my phone and calling Roger. He had been at the door when I came in, he should be answering. But he didn’t. I tried many times, and he didn’t pick up.
“Ok, breathe. Just breathe” I told myself, my hands shaking. I needed to get out of that lift.
I tried calling Roger again, but it was pointless. The buttons still weren’t working and I was starting to feel very hot, so I sat down, trying to focus on my breath, closing my eyes and thinking that I was in my room, sitting on my bed, relaxing… But that didn’t work out either.
“Fuck!” I yelled, starting to cry. “Fuck, fuck, fuck!”
I unlocked my phone again, not sure about what I was doing. And then, for the first time in months, I called him.
“Rúben!” I cried when I heard him picking up. “Please don’t hang up, Rúben. I’m scared. Please.”
“Are you ok? What happened, where are you?”
“Home, stuck on the lift. Please come get me out of here, please” I said between sobs.
“I’m on my way home from training. I’ll be there in ten minutes, ok?”
“Please” I cried.
“Ten minutes. I promise.”
I’m not sure if it took him ten minutes to arrive or not, but it felt like an eternity. When I heard noise above my head, I thought I was dreaming. Or maybe going crazy. But then the lights turned on again, and the doors of the lift slowly started to open.
“I’m getting you out of there, ok?” Rúben said. “I’m here.”
He was the one opening the doors.
“Give me your hand” he said once there was enough space for me to go through. I did as he told me, and I was suddenly flying, finally leaving that damned lift.
“Rúben” I gasped when my feet touched the floor, hugging him and starting to cry again.
“It’s ok” he said, hugging me back. “It’s ok, you are ok. I’m here.”
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“Feeling better?” Rúben said, sitting on the couch next to me. “You’ve stopped shaking.”
“Yes, I think the tea is helping. Thank you.”
“Of course. Do you need anything else? Do you want me to call Lucy?”
“No, no, it’s fine. Don’t ruin her date.”
“Is she seeing someone?”
“Yep. And she doesn’t want to tell me who he is, which isn’t fair. I’ve told her everything about me and now she is keeping secrets.”
“What about you? Are you seeing someone? Ramsdale, perhaps?”
“Oh, no. We’ve texted a few times because he wanted to know how I was, but nothing else.”
“I'm sorry about everything I said that day" Rúben said after a few seconds in the most awkward silence ever. "About the way I shouted at you. I shouldn't have done it, I regret it so much…”
“It's ok.”
“No, it isn’t. I had barely slept, then during training Pep had gotten mad at me because I wasn’t focused, and even though it isn’t an excuse, when you told me what had happened in London I just exploded and made you pay for everything. And I shouldn't have done that. You didn’t deserve it, you had done nothing wrong.”
“I made out with another guy and ended up in bed with him.”
“But we weren’t dating, were we?” Rúben said. “And we hadn’t discussed if we were exclusive or the type of relationship we had.”
“I guess, yeah.”
“I’m sorry” he said again. “I really am. If I could go back in time and do things differently, I would. ”
So would I, I said to myself.
“What about the parties, tho?” I dared to ask. After his apology and basically clearing out things between us, I needed to know if he was seeing someone. If he had moved on. “Would you also change that?”
“Definitely.”
“Really? You all seemed to be having lots of fun.”
“Nah.”
“Then none of those girls you were with made the cut?” I said, arching an eyebrow. He noticed and answered like I expected: with that smirk of his, making the last bits of the knot in my chest disappear.
“They are Jack’s friends. Very hot, but if you ask them about... I don't know, Stradivarius, their first thought is the shop, not the violins. They’ve probably never heard about the violins, to be honest.”
“Rude” I chuckled.
“But it is the truth. Do you want another one?” he asked after I left my mug on the table.
“I’m fine, thank you.”
“I’ve missed you, you know? This. Us.”
“I’ve missed you too” I said, looking up at him. God, I had missed him. I had missed him so much. Seeing him in photos from the games or in training wasn’t the same as having him here, in the flesh, just a few centimetres away from me.
“Can I kiss you?” he asked.
“Please.”
And before I had time to blink, he was already doing it. And it was a movie worth kiss like all his kisses were.
“Rúben” I whispered between kisses, both of us laying on his sofa. “Let’s go to your room.”
“What?” he said, lifting his head from my neck and looking at me.
“I want to go to your room.”
“Are you… are you sure?”
“Yes. C´mon” I said, getting up.
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“You can stop me whenever you want” Rúben said, kissing my stomach.
“I know. I've heard you the other eighty times you’ve said it” I giggled.
“Just eighty?” he said while looking up at me, that smirk on his face.
“Eighty-one with this. And again, I’m telling you I don’t want you to stop. I want to do it. All of it. And I want to do it with you.”
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Silhouettes In The Spotlight - Bucky Barnes - Chapter Fifteen
Summary: Bucky Barnes has worked immensely hard to have a filmography expanding across genres and garnering accolades from critics, peers and fans. Y/N Y/L/N, with her debut novel (fan-fiction turned New York Times Bestseller) has two other best sellers under her belt. Next is her highly anticipated fourth book lined up for release. SHEILD Productions has acquired the film rights to her debut novel and they want Bucky Barnes to play the lead (aka himself) by any means necessary. This story is about angst, lust, heartbreak, and love. After all fairytales only exist in books and movies right?
Warnings:fluff, angst, SA mentioned not described, drugs mentioned not consumed, entertainment industry language (basically misleading way of delivering news), legal stuff, anxiety, court proceedings, bucky is sweet but also a menace, shitty lawyers and victim blaming, comments made on size of reader
Pairing: Actor!Bucky Barnes x Plus Size!Fem!Reader
Word Count: 5.3k || Dividers: @firefly-graphics
Main Masterlist || Fic Masterlist || AO3 || Fic Playlist
Chapter Fourteen || Chapter Sixteen
HEADLINES:
Natasha Romanoff Unleashes Scathing Tweets While Defending The Victims Who Have Come Forward Against Alexander Pierce
Y/N Y/L/N Looks Sombre Attending Court Hearing. Bucky Barnes To Take The Stand. Fans Gather Outside Courthouse To Support Actor As He Supports His Colleagues.
Twins In Style, Reclusive Lawyer Andy Barber Looks Dapper In Suit Matched With His Brother Steve Rogers. Watch Exclusive Video Of The Lawyer As He Ponders Over Case Details In The Parking Lot.
Dolores Stuns In A Cherry Red Outfit, Is It Appropriate For Court? Watch As Our Fashion Experts Breakdown These Courtroom Looks.
HYDRA Now Pushes Innocence Narrative, Sharon Carter Leading Charge To Safe Face Of Organisation.
Fans Reign Down Hell On Ace After Comments About Shocking Revelation On The Truth Of Alexander Pierce The Star Deletes Social Media In Response.
Loki stares at the iPad lying on the desk. The shower turning on brings him back to the present. Dozens of emails, back and forth correspondence.
Pictures.
Pictures of him.
Pictures of Bucky.
Pictures of Steve.
Pictures of You.
Pictures of Bucky and You.
Pictures of Steve and You.
Some actual and several altered to insinuate much more than what was ongoing. Bile rises in his throat as he scrolls to the top and through the chain again while recording all of it on his phone.
Intimate pictures he exchanged with Ace, the bathroom door opens. He exits the iPad back to the home screen. Making sure to close all apps before locking the device.
“Are you coming in, big boy?” They call out, beads of water flow down their naked form. A sight which would have Loki tempted but now churns acid in his stomach.
“I’m terribly sorry, it's my brother. I need to go.” He explains having told Ace enough about his sibling, Thor, that they could draw conclusions for the need to retreat. He had done it before genuinely.
“Oh no, would you like me to come along?” They step out further grabbing the towel.
“No, I um, I’d appreciate that but I’ve already asked Bucky. I’ll update you in a few hours. I apologise for cutting this short.” He buttons up his shirt, swiftly.
Ace stands before him, reaching up to cup his cheeks. They stand on their tiptoes, pressing their lips to his, Loki’s hands grasp their waist. Eyes closed as the two share the kiss so steeped in with betrayal.
Loki rushes out as the air is leaving his lungs, the court hearings are ongoing. The next date is scheduled for next week. He gets into his car, uncaring for the tickets he might receive and speeds along to his best friend’s apartment.
Bucky opens the door to a frantic looking Loki who just thrusts his unlocked phone into his palms. The green eyed man heads straight for the bar cart and pours himself a generous serving of the amber selection. Downing it in one go.
Bucky stares at the playing footage, stomach knotting with every exchanged email. Natasha was right.
It was someone on the main crew.
Someone all trusted.
Someone you considered a close friend when Natasha and Yelena seemingly abandoned you.
“Pour me a glass too, I need to tell Feather.” Bucky holds out his hand and the cold crystal is placed in, he takes a sip then a longer one. Calls are exchanged between Andy, Matt and himself. More calls are made to Agent Lewis and Agent Lang.
The calls take hours and a meeting is called in order.
Bucky closes his eyes tightly, pinching the bridge of his nose.
When would this nightmare end?
A sniffle brings him back to the present Loki hunched over and trying not to cry into his hands.
“I trusted them.” He mutters as Bucky’s arms envelope him into a hug, “I, I– Bucky I’m so sorry.”
“I’m so sorry this happened to you. You don’t deserve this, not one bit.” Bucky pulls him in a tighter embrace, “I know how much they meant to you.”
Loki sniffles, holding onto Bucky, “I’m so sorry.”
You stare at Ace across the hallway of the courthouse. They meet your gaze, offering you a bright smile.
“Smile back.” Bucky reminds in a soft murmur, from his position, leaning against the wall, coffee cup in hand. You offer them a tightlipped smile.
“I feel sick.” Your palm pressed against your stomach, the queasy feeling blooms, “I can’t keep up this charade for long. Behaving as if yet another person hasn’t betrayed us.”
“I’d recommend a stiff drink.” Steve drinks from his own cup wishing it was something else. Glare affixed on Ace who was busy chatting away to their assistant.
“I don’t believe alcohol is the answer, Rogers. Believe me, the four ibuprofens I’ve taken agree.” Loki observes making his way over to your small group.
“How are you?” You hug him, he hugs back. Sighing deeply.
“I will be better.” He says, he takes off his sunglasses as he pulls away with a smile that doesn’t reach his eyes.
“Don’t apologise again, please.” you request, he smiles still apologetic.
“Apologise for what?” Ace interrupts, grasping Loki’s arm with their own.
“For stealing me from date night for you know…” Bucky pushes himself away from the wall, wrapping a protective arm around your shoulders.
“Ah, yes.” They smile up at Loki, he grins at them, “I really hope you didn't mind, Y/N.”
“Of course not, I know how complicated a family can be, and having people to trust is extremely important. I’m happy Loki didn’t have to be alone.”
Steve masks a snort with a cough at your thinly veiled jab. Loki shifts slightly, Steve yelps, “These are YSL!” He sneers making sure the shoes aren’t damaged.
“Don’t worry they're baptised now by Louboutins.” Loki winks at him.
“Case in point.” You add.
Ace only smiles.
Andy waves at you all to enter the courtroom.
The crowd diminishes, as the courtroom fills up.
“All rise for Judge Rambaue.”
Judge Maria Rambaue takes her place, and everyone settles. Matt stands, as does Andy. The defence lawyers comprising the familiar faces of Schmidt and his overworked paralegals eye them warily.
Alexander only glares towards them then his gaze finds yours, he raises a brow. Then your view is blocked as Bucky shifts forward. Glaring at Alexander. The gesture makes the older man laugh, bemused. He looks on ahead.
“Don’t let him get to you, Feather.” Bucky murmurs, kissing the top of your head. You nod, intertwining your hand with his, he strokes his thumb over your tattoo.
“Permission to approach the bench, Your Honour?” Matt’s voice rings across the room.
“Permission granted.” Judge Rambeau waits as the teams approach.
Andy speaks and Schmit’s face turns red, he begins firing his paralegal, who cowers back pushing up their spectacles.
“I’m going to ask you to be respectful inside and outside of my court, attorney.” The judge’s voice is loud enough, the journalists at the back begin scribbling across their notepads vigorously.
The attorneys return to their respective tables. Matt whispers something to Andy, the two share a conversation. The latter stands, buttoning up his blazer.
Andy takes a deep breath, “Your Honour we would request to call Mr. Peter Quill to the witness stand.”
“Granted.”
Peter Quill walks with a confident stride, giving a beaming grin to a very confused looking Alexander Pierce.
"I solemnly declare and affirm that the evidence I shall give will be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth". Peter says, then faces the room.
“Mr. Quill, you were arrested a few weeks ago on account of possession of several narcotics seized from your home.” Andy questions.
“Yes, those charges have since been dropped as the evidence collected was planted and it was a thinly veiled warning.” Peter nods.
“I see, I would request the court to allow me to submit evidence from Mr. Quill in regards to this statement.” Andy returns with the marked evidence in hand.
The tape is played, Alexander’s voice warning Peter heard by everyone.
“Untrue!” Alexander yells.
“Order in the court, Mr. Pierce.” Judge Rambaue’s voice warns.
Andy shakes his head, “Analysis from Agents Lewis and Lang have revealed this is a non tampered with tape as well as the voice match software affirms it indeed is Mr. Pierce’s voice.”
“Objection!” Schmidt stands, “Mr. Pierce was in a recorded meeting on the date of this claim!”
“Mr. Schmidt!” The judge bellows.
“Your Honour this is a baseless argument!”
“Your Honour, we have records and geolocations found. Which confirms the call location and CCTV footage affirms Mr. Pierce was on a call at the same time.” Andy offers the evidence yet again.
Peter smiles at Alexander, “You made a grave mistake by coming after me.” he laughs, the smug expression doesn’t leave his features.
“I never called you. You were fooled. What would I do trying to one up an imbecile like you?” Alexander rolls his eyes.
The gavel resounds.
It's silent in the courtroom, Peter leaves the witness stand and Alexander is called upon to take the place.
“So you mean to say what? Someone imitates your voice during the call Mr. Quill received?” Matt questions.
“Yes.” Alexander replies.
“How are you speaking with such certainty? There have been several people here who have disproved most of your lies.” Matt gestures towards the crowd, “The jury have heard each lie be thwarted.”
“Several people have tried and failed to copy several aspects of my life.” Alexander sits back in the chair, one hand running through his hair.
“I understand and what about the call being placed from within the location you were at?” Matt drums his fingers along his guide cane, waiting for Alexander to speak.
“Someone knew I was at my chosen location and made the call. They were present for the sole purpose of incriminating me. I was on a video conference where you can confirm with the person on the opposite end.” He shrugs.
“You have a lot of enemies, is it Mr. Pierce?” Matt gives a sympathetic smile to Alexander.
“It comes with the line of work, son.”
“Who was on video call with you?” Matt turns his head towards the jury then back to the man.
Alexander sighs, “With my nephew, Brock Rumlow.” He flicks away a piece of lint, seemingly bored.
The lawyer purses his lips, waiting to formulate his next line of questions. Andy stares at Alexander for a moment. Then three taps on the desk. Matt tilts his head then straightens it.
“Whenever you’re ready, Mr. Murdock.” Alexander smiles as he smoothens his tie.
“Thank you Mr. Pierce. Now you mentioned that there was a video call with your nephew Mr. Brock Rumlow, correct?” Matt smiles.
“Yes.”
“What was the context of this meeting or agenda if you would be so kind to share?” Matt gestures towards the judge and jury.
“I am not at liberty to discuss since it is about the upcoming film he is directing.” Alexander’s lips press into a thin line.
“Alright and you affirm that you did not take nor make any other calls during the entirety of this meeting?” The lawyer raises a brow.
“Yes, I affirm.”
“If we were to acquire a recording of this meeting as mandated for all HYDRA, formerly known as SHIELD Productions online meetings, would this support your statement?” Matt smirks as Alexander visibly tenses, his eyes move to his lawyers.
“Objection, calls for speculation.” Schmidt covers.
Matt chuckles, “Alright, can you prove you took no calls Mr. Pierce?”
“Objection repetitive.”
“I haven’t received my answer.”
“Overruled.”
“Mr. Pierce? Since this rule is followed by all members and employees of your co-owned production house?”
“I am HYDRA.” Alexander grits out, palm slapping against the wood of the desk.
“Sentiments aside, can you prove you took no calls?” Matt keeps his cool.
“I built HYDRA to where it is.” Alexander presses.
“By sex-ually abusing young women and men?” Matt roars, calm demeanour fading away.
“Objection, leading.” Schmidt interrupts.
“I did no such thing, these people are placing baseless allegations for money!” Alexander bellows ignoring Schmidt.
“Mr. Pierce, the honourable court has received conclusive evidence that you did in fact assault the victims who have bravely come forth to share their harrowing ordeal.” Matt points out, “Many of whom have–,”
“Oh please, they received money from HYDRA to keep them more than compliant, silent and happy. This is all for more fame. Especially from that trio there.” Alexander sneers and points his fingers at you, Bucky and Steve.
Silence takes over the court.
Bucky places a protective arm around you.
Your hand finds his; fingers intertwined.
Steve keeps a blank expression.
Slowly it dawns over everyone what Alexander let slip.
Andy smiles pleased and it makes Alexander lose his composure.
Schmidt scrambles to stand up after an entire two minutes, “Objection h-hearsay.” He stutters.
Matt smiles, “Your honour, I have no further questions. I would request Mr. Barber to take over.” The two exchange places.
Andy smiles at the Judge and then Alexander, “Whenever you’re ready, Mr. Pierce.” Who only scowls at him.
“You may begin, Mr. Barber.” The Judge declares.
“In continuation of the question not answered earlier, Mr. Pierce, can you tell us why proof of your call is not submitted? It increases the likelihood of this one charge you may be found not guilty.”
“I am not at the liberty to share confidential information about ongoing HYDRA projects.” Alexander regains composure.
“I see, so a video conference with Brock Rumlow but you cannot share the discussed matter but you can affirm you did not take any calls.” Andy lists the affirmed matters.
“Yes.” Alexander answers.
Andy cheerily grins at the Judge, she raises a brow.
“Your honour we request the honourable Judge, Jury and court to allow Mr. Brock Rumlow be summoned to witness.” Andy continues to smile.
Schmidt snickers under his breath. Alexander’s shoulders relax further.
You watch as Andy’s smile doesn’t waiver and Matt does a fist pump as the Judge allows the request. Approving the paperwork Andy takes from Matt to handover.
A break for fifteen minutes is called, everyone scatters out yet again. Brock was in custody of the NYPD awaiting his own trial.
You’re following Andy and Matt into the conference room assigned to them. Bucky and Steve in tow. When chaos breaks in the hallways.
Bucky is pushed up against the wall, lapels of his blazer bunched in Alexander’s fists.
“Admit it.” He sneers, Bucky keeps his hands where everyone can see them, pressed against the wall.
“Alexander.” Bucky warns.
“Admit you fucking made that call. Only you can mimic me without a fault. You did this!” He spits out, fire burning in his eyes.
“Alexander, you need to stop making false accusations, that was a bit for the Emmy Awards. Years ago. I can’t even do a British accent, you know this.” Bucky explains, keeping his hands still in the air.
Your brows furrow when you notice Andy presses his lips into a thin line and Matt grip his guide cane harder. Steve avoids your gaze.
Your lips part as Bucky too, looks at you and then away back at Alexander.
The guards drag him away. Bucky smoothens his suit jacket.
“We’ll talk inside.” You know he speaks to you, “Privately for five minutes.”
Bucky grips the back of the chair, he allows you time to form your question.
“Did you mimic him?” You question, you knew he presented at the Emmys with Steve once but you never had gotten around to seeing the video.
“At the Emmys, yes, I had.” He recounts.
“Bucky.” your lips are dry as you run your tongue over them in contemplation.
“Feather, why would I?”
“You hated what Peter Quill did at the event…” You conclude.
“Yes, but I didn’t plant the LSD or Coke or whatever the hell they found.” Bucky defends, you press your fingers to your temples.
“I didn’t ask you about that.” Your eyes meet his azure.
“He’s on the same track as him, he had to be busted.” Bucky emphasises pressing his index finger against his palm.
“Do you have an alibi?” you close your eyes.
“I do. I was at an interview.”
“Then… How?”
“Recording played over.”
“You better not be hiding anything else from me.” You affix your glare on him. Then jog around the table to embrace him.
“I wouldn’t dream of it, Feather.” He wraps his arms around you, tucking you against him.
“I promised you I’d take care of you.” He murmurs.
“Not when you’re– well, felonies.” You complain.
“Hey when most of your book boyfriends are morally grey why not your actual boyfriend be too?” He teases.
“They do the doorframe lean, amongst other things.” You huff.
Soon enough you’re twirled, back pressed to the wall. Bucky smirks, his hand resting above taking most of his weight. As he leans in, blue eyes full of playfulness. Your skin heats at the proximity.
“This better?” His voice is doing that deep baritone thing, the one that makes the thoughts in your head mush.
“I–,” words don’t support you.
Bucky leans in further, lips brushing against yours, he cups your jaw.
Closing the meagre distance between your lips and his own.
In the brief recess after knowing what Bucky did for you. The team never got a chance to speak. The break was extended further into lunch to allow Brock to be brought in, you felt queasy.
You still didn't understand why Brock being there would help the case in favourable manners. He was the nephew of the man being charged. Of course he would only support the man.
Playing around with the wrapper of the sandwich is all that felt right. Bucky prompts you a few times to eat, as do Loki and Steve.
“I just don’t feel hungry…” You repeat.
“Okay how about this?” Bucky makes smaller sections of the sandwich effectively turning two pieces into four, “Eat two small ones, it will help with the queasiness.”
When you just look at him, he raises the piece to your lips.
“The airplane needs landing access.” He chuckles, full of hope that you will eat.
“You’re…” You can’t find the words he’s absolutely adorable. So you do part your lips letting him feed you the first piece and then the second piece.
Bucky turns for a moment when Sam walks up needing to discuss the shoot scheduled for later today.
He looks back at you while Sam speaks, raising the third piece, you eat it without protest.
The rewarding grin Bucky gives you further melts your heart. He turns yet again to answer Sam.
You eat the fourth piece on your own, the queasiness easing.
“Good girl.” He praises, placing a kiss on your temple. You smile up at him.
“It's like watching a sugar rush actually take place.” Steve grumbles.
Loki shakes his head bemused, “You’d do the same thing.”
The two share a glance at each then the other’s food. Both reach for one piece of the other’s food holding it up to their mouths.
“Here love, please eat.” Loki says dramatically.
“No, honey, how can I eat unless you eat?” Steve defends, pressing the morsel to Loki’s lips.
You look at the two of them, “You know, I never thought about this, but I think the new book might have the two of you inspiring characters.”
Bucky and you look at them then back at each other.
“I see how these two would fit.” Your boyfriend chuckles.
“What are you planning?” Loki narrows his eyes at you and Steve regards you warily.
“Oh nothing at all…” You trail off, then look to the side as Andy walks towards your group.
“We’ve got ten minutes before the session begins, Brock has arrived.” His gaze settles on you. Bucky tenses beside you as does Steve.
“What?” You ask, looking between them.
Andy sighs moving closer, “He may bring up the night of the assault.”
“And that is a problem because?” You ask, “It happened, it's the truth…”
“There isn’t doubt about that, Y/N. If he brings it up, you will be called to the stand again.” Steve explains softly.
“Oh…” You swallow, the way Schmidt had questioned you, the blatant disrespect, the horrible accusations, the jabs at your weight and your writing.
Previous Hearings:
‘And what about this? Your literature is so sexually charged, this conversation between your characters suggests women are dominating in nature during sexual situations.’ Schmidt places the highlighted passage before you.
‘Objection Relevance?’ Matt interrupts.
‘Yes, because sex should be consensual, safe, healthy and enjoyed by the individuals partaking, I don’t understand–,’ Your words are cut off.
‘You writing about these things promotes you were asking for it all by coming onto my client. If you couldn’t handle yourself with the substances you abused, a woman of your appearance had to resort to throwing herself on my client to achieve her–,’
‘Objection opinion.’ Matt roars.
‘You were at fault, you were under influence and you came onto my client.’ Schmidt accuses, ignoring Matt.
‘Objection Evidence!’
You cower back in your seat. Ears ringing, flashes of the evening playing. Breathing hard you search for Bucky. Your knuckles shoot pain at the harsh grip on your chair.
‘Ms. Y/L/N, your recollection of the night is obscured, how can you yourself believe what happened when all you have are flashes? The drugs you took alter memories, are you sure you weren’t with the people trying to bring my client’s name down?’ Schmidt stares down at you, dismissing you. Dismissing your experience, your eyes move to the jury.
‘Objection evidence! Evidence B351-85 is the entire audio recording of Mr. Pierce’s sex-ual assault on my client.’ Matt pauses hearing your laboured breathing, ‘Y/N?’
Black spots cloud your vision, ‘He did it, he said no one would believe me. Please, you have to believe me. I, I didn’t lead him on please. There were bottles and I was thirsty. The water had something in it, I, please.’
Bucky stands, Loki tugs on his arm. The Judge looks at them then back at you.
‘Sit down.’ Andy whispers to them.
Your vision ebbs in and out, you try to anchor yourself to Bucky to something. Alexander grins smugly, you close your eyes, hot tears brim over your cheeks.
‘Crocodile tears don’t win cases Ms. Y/L/N. Your erotic fiction is good only on paper.’ Schmidt smirks, ‘No further questions.’
“But Brock will corroborate, correct?” Bucky stares at Andy, the lawyer nods.
“Given who he shares a genetic composition with, I do not want to trust him.” He looks at Steve and Loki.
“If they call me to the stand again, I’ll tell the truth.” You nod, taking a steadying breath.
“If anything occurs, we’ll call Steve or Bucky again to the stand, okay?” Andy assures with an apologetic smile.
“We’re here to help okay?” Steve adds, “You call us as witnesses, we heard everything.”
Andy nods, “We better get inside.”
The courtroom is tense as Brock is led inside his hands still cuffed. Alexander rolls his eyes and shakes his head as his nephew takes the stand.
Andy stands, his opening statement done. Brock seems every bit laid back. As though lives won’t change based on his testimony. As if this means nothing.
“Yeah, Uncle was on a call in the middle of the meeting.” Brock says and a murmur breaks out.
“Order in the court!” Judge Rambaue bellows.
“Do you know who was it with, this conversation Mr. Pierce, your uncle partook in amidst the ongoing meeting?” Andy questions, raising a brow.
Brock inhales, “He muted when the call was made, archives will have a recording of the meeting and if not my meetings are backed up to my server. I am willing to provide access.”
“I see, thank you for your cooperation Mr. Rumlow. No further questions, your honour.” Andy returns to the table.
All eyes move to Schmidt’s table, whispering occurs. Alexander slams his hand on the table, sneering at his lawyers then Brock. Who only smirks at his uncle,
“I would also go on record to say that I have supportive evidence that the man sitting there, Alexander Pierce, has assaulted those three sitting there. I have proof of the blackmail done for the same. In fact it was delivered by their close friend Ace to my uncle in exchange for a three movie deal with the production house.”
“Objection, lack of foundation.” Schmit points at Brock.
“The foundation is every allegation of this case.” Andy counters.
“Mr. Rumlow, I hope you have evidence to support what you are stating.” The judge looks at him and Brock nods.
“I have someone who can corroborate everything, with proof.” Brock only gives his uncle a wicked grin when Alexander stands marching over to the witness stand.
The officers stop him, “You won’t fucking get away with this!” Alexander struggles against the guards.
“Order in my court! Mr. Pierce, I will not hesitate to charge you. This is your final warning.” Judge Rambaue points her gavel at him.
“I am paying the price of being by your side while you ruined my life by making me do your bidding. No more uncle.” Brock looks at Andy.
“Mr. Rumlow, you mentioned someone who can prove every allegation?” Andy enquiries, Matt stands as well, ready with the to call witness papers in hand.
You look up at Bucky, he shakes his head unknowing of who it could be either.
“Mr. Nick Fury.” Brock smiles, the doors open, all heads turn to the man entering.
Dressed in all black, Nicky Fury keeps his gaze at level with the judge.
“Objection….” Schmidt struggles with the reasoning.
“Your Honour, we request to call Nick Fury to the stand.” Matt hands over the papers.
Nick submits three folders and a harddisk, “I know this isn’t traditional your honour, but the board of SHIELD Productions–,”
“It’s HYDRA!” Alexander shouts, Nick turns, his eye narrowed at the man.
“Was HYDRA, as of the Extra Ordinary General Meeting held with the stakeholders and active managerial position holders, you Alexander Pierce, have been terminated effective immediately. All your shares have been forfeited and bought out. You no longer have anything to do with our production house.”
“You cannot– I will take you down with me!” Alexander warns.
“No Alexander, you’re getting what was coming to you. You abused your power and now it is time to pay up.” Nick taps the hard disk, “Your honour, this contains everything Alexander has done illegally. Our Production House is being cleaned out. All employees are willing to cooperate.” He heads to the opposite side’s witness stand.
Nick meets Bucky and Steve’s gazes, then yours, “I apologise to everyone I couldn’t protect before. It was a stupid ass decision to let Alexander lead, I shall be taking a more active role rather than just financially providing for the production house.
“The court will take four days to review the newly submitted evidence. The jury is asked to consider everything and take their time to decide. Mr. Pierce you are hereby ordered to be placed in custody for your contempt behaviour in my court without bail.” The gavel resounds.
Alexander Pierce is dragged away, the four of you remain seated.
“Where are you off to Ace?” Loki’s words stop them in their tracks.
“Loki, are you going to believe–,”
“Alexander, there is something going on between Steve and Y/N. However I believe they may explore a throuple situation with Bucky Barnes.” He recounts, cutting them off.
“Here are the pictures you asked for, if your team can switch Steve and Bucky’s angles you can push the story better.”
“You went through my email?” Ace accuses, “That is a violation of privacy-,”
Your snort cuts them off, “You’re the one to fucking talk! You’re the one who leaked everything, I trusted you so much and kept wondering, I kept thinking it was others and not you. Fuck, you should really get the damn awards had me fooled you were my friend. Hell, we all thought you were our friend. You didn’t even spare Loki’s feelings. Fuck you, Ace.”
They blink at you, mouth parted. Loki scoffs at their look of denial.
“It’s best we leave.” Andy advises gesturing to the one man recording the entire ordeal.
“Feel free to post that everywhere.” You tell the man who scurries out at being caught.
“I’ll pay him to post it all.” Loki keeps his glare affixed upon Ace.
Bucky’s palm rests on your lower back, guiding you out, “Home?”
“Home.” You affirm, he presses his lips to your temple.
Hayden brings the car around. Bucky and you settle in heading home.
Yelena calls then, you put it on speaker.
“Hey Lena, you’re on speaker.”
“Hey, Hey Bucky, I heard the highlights, how are you holding up?” You hear ice clinking against glass from her end.
“We’ll get there, I suppose.” Bucky shrugs, “Any news on HYDRA Publications?”
“All of HYDRA is being dissolved, mostly SHIELD is too, it’s going to turn into something new. However, all decisions taken by the companies an hour before the decision to dissolve remain final.” She explains then sighs, “We’re going through the semantics of everything, several of the roster of BW is involved.”
“Did, did we get what we wanted?” You ask, you’d independently publish, you just needed the contract gone.
“I’m just waiting for confirmation from legal counsel at Barber and Murdock.”
“Confirmation for what?”
“If you retain all rights as author even though they have dropped you from their roster, due to poor review performance.” Yelena chuckles, you look up at Bucky.
“Wait, she’s free?” He questions.
“Yes, she’s free. We’ll work on getting the ratings up but as of now, you are not bound by any publication house.” Yelena’s happiness is infectious.
You let out a relieved laugh, “Thank you.”
“I’ll get back to you, this whole thing has led to fires I need to put out.” She ends the call and Bucky envelopes you in a hug, pulling you across his lap.
“Bucky!” You grab onto his shoulders, he only laughs.
“I’m so very happy for you, Feather.” He cups your face with his vibranium palm.
“Soon you will be free from them too.” You kiss his palm.
Bucky smiles widely, pink lips leading to the dimple on his cheek and the crinkles by his eyes. Your thumbs stroke his cheekbones, your lips kiss his crinkles and dimple.
HEADLINES:
In What Seems To Be A Shocking And Very On Brand Author Y/N’s Infamous Plot Twists, She Has Been Dropped By HYDRA-SHIELD’s Publication House Due To Poor Reviews. Read On Ahead To Know More About The Contract That Caused This To Occur.
Brock Rumlow Sentenced To Two Years Of Jail Which Was Further Reduced For His Compliance With The Law, Community Service and A Private Facility Allowed.
Alexander Pierce’s Downfall Shocks Hollywood More Stars And Big Names Come Forward As The Man Is Sentenced To Two Life Sentences In Prison. Found Guilty On All Counts.
Nick Fury On How He Knew It Was Time To Do The Right Thing, “It Was Time To Stop Remaining A Passive On Paper Leader Of This Prestigious Organisation.”
Steve Rogers Posts Picture Of BTS From His Next Movie Ghosted, Teases About Familiar Faces As Cameos. We Wonder Who Could They Be? He Also Is Setting Up A Free Mental Health Clinic At His Local Rec Centre.
Bucky Barnes and Y/N Y/L/N Spotted Holding Hands As They Enter Their Apartment Complex. Watch Mini Video Filmed At Her Mother’s Healthcare Facility of The Small Family Laughing As They Eat Jello In The Cafeteria.
Bucky Barnes Shares Heartfelt Write Up About Compassion and Kindness Towards The Victims of Alexander Pierce. Organises Fund Raiser For The Victims and Their Families Or Next of Kin. Loki Laufeyson, Steve Rogers, and Brock Rumlow Pledge To Match Fundraiser’s Amount Each.
A.N.: soooooo i hope you guys enjoy this update! slowly getting back to it all and writing, hope you all are doing well!
Taglist is Open comment or DM to be added!
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