SUMMARY: After the night out with your friends you return home and find a surprise waiting for you next door.
Later on that night you and Vision were the last pair standing as the rest of the group was drunk off their asses.
You spent the rest of the night helping Vision get the drunk group home safely.
You first dropped off Steve and Bucky, they weren’t as drunk as the rest but still in no condition to either drive or help care for the others. So you walked them to the door and bid them a good night with the gentle reminder to drink some water and take an aspirin.
Then Monica who you entrusted her roommate Darcy to look after.
Finally you helped get Pietro to bed, making sure he was on his side and had water and aspirin on his nightstand next to him for when he woke up, although you knew he was going to be ok you thought maybe it would be best if you slept on the couch just to make sure he would be alright. Wanda would be fine because she had Vision. Monica would be alright because she had Darcy taking care of her. Steve and Bucky would be alright because they had each other. But Pietro had no roommate or anyone to take care of him except you and Wanda.
After assuring Pietro was alright you set up your place on the couch. Gathering blankets and an extra pillow from Pietro’s bed that would go unmissed. While setting up your area your eyes caught the picture of you and the twins during your highschool years hanging on the wall.
You smiled as you remembered how emo and edgy Wanda and Pietro looked and how eighties you unintentionally looked.
You laughed and immediately wanted to turn the picture the other way out of embarrassment when you studied how you looked.
Why did you think that looked good?
However embarrassed you were of the photo you smiled as you remembered your high school years with them.
Pietro was the star track athlete and every girl (and guy) wanted him in one way or another. Yet for some unknown reason he stuck with you and Wanda.
Wanda was the smartest among your small group and she didn’t even need to try. Looking back you don’t think you ever saw her study but yet somehow she managed to pass with flying colors that made Agatha green with envy. It wasn’t until she met Vision that you saw her actually apply herself and compete for valedictorian.
You were the only one they listened to most of the time. You didn’t know why but they had always listened to what you said.
You wonder what your trio would’ve been like as a quartet.
As you laid your head and began to try to sleep you thought about Natasha and how she would’ve fit into that small group of yours.
—
The morning started off pretty well so far for you. Pietro had woken up before you for his morning run and brought back coffee and pastries from the local coffee shop around the corner. You spent the rest of the morning laughing and talking before finally departing on your way back to the bookstore to open.
You really were thankful that you had thought ahead and had some clothes stored away at Pietro’s. You ate breakfast with Pietro before finally departing to your bookstore a few blocks away.
You hummed mindlessly all the way there. It had been a while since your last outing and last night had been refreshing, regardless of whether or not you got as drunk as everyone else did. You had fun.
As you neared your store you noticed a moving van with people unloading next to it. Curiosity filled you as you began to wonder what would fill the empty store next to you. As you got closer you could see a petite blonde woman giving the people unloading directions. You could see she was heavily tatted, your eyes were drawn to one in particular on her collar, ‘Miss American Pie.” in beautiful handwriting. You didn’t know why but she looked familiar to you. You decided to pay no mind to it as you went to unlock the store.
“(Y/n)?”
You turned around and saw the blonde woman looking at you. Her features were fair and the shape of her nose was something to envy. You quickly remembered that she was the blonde woman from last night that had a six foot man in a chokehold.
“You’re that woman from last night,” You say, “the one who put that man in a chokehold. I’ve got to say that was pretty cool.”
“Did I?!” She asks astonished, “I was so drunk last night I can barely remember Nat putting me to bed.”
“We’ve all been there,” You said, “how did you know my name though I don’t think I talked to you last night?”
“We were neighbors,” she explained, “you were friends with my sister Natasha.”
Flashes of a little blonde girl came into mind that usually stuck to Natasha like glue.
“Yelena?” You asked before the blonde grinned from ear to ear and nodded. “Oh my god I am so sorry I didn’t recognize you.”
“It’s no problem,” Yelena said, “it took me a few minutes too to remember who you were.”
“So are you the one moving in next door?”
“No actually,” Yelena said, “I’m just helping set everything up for the shop before going back to my place a few blocks down from here.”
“Who is moving in?”
“That would be me, Nancy Drew.”
You turned your head and there stood Natasha. Her tattoos now were more visible in light and decorated her skin like paint on a canvas. You thought she looked like she came straight out of a vogue magazine.
“Good you’re here.” Yelena said as Natasha made her way to where you both stood, “Toni doesn’t know how you want to arrange the stations and needs help on that. Dad is trying to fight the movers and Mom is nowhere to be found.”
“Where’s Clint?” Natasha sighed.
“Still sleeping off his hangover.” Yelena explained.
“Ok,” Natasha said, “tell Toni I’ll be there in a few minutes to help her, tell Dad if he doesn’t knock it off Mom will knock him out, and Mom is probably upstairs checking out the apartment and I would try Clint’s phone if that doesn’t work get Nick.”
Yelena stood there expectantly at her sister before finally Natasha said. “Please oh great sister of mine.”
“There you go, was that so hard?” Yelena says before turning back to you. “I’ll see you later (Y/n), have Nat invite you to the housewarming party next week before she chickens out.”
“I was going to do that,” Natasha calls after her sister as Yelena begins to walk away.
“You weren’t doing it fast enough.” Yelena says before disappearing in the store leaving just you and Natasha.
“So you’re moving in next door?” You ask.
“Yeah,” Natasha says, “bout time I put down some roots, open up that tattoo shop I’ve been dreaming about since I first walked into one.”
“That explains the look then.” You say.
“What look?” Natasha smiles knowing exactly what you meant.
“That look you gave me all the time when you knew something I didn’t and tried to be all mysterious about it.” You explained and Natasha laughed. “So what is this tattoo shop going to be called?” You asked Natasha who ceased laughing before finally answering.
“Black Widow.” Natasha replied before gazing at her store with a sparkle in her eye that you were familiar with. It was the same look in your eye every time you looked at your store. Just as you were about to say something the vibrating sound of Natasha’s phone rang. Natasha grabbed it from her pants before sighing and looking back at you.
“I’ve got to take this call, it should just take a second.” Natasha said, understanding what she meant you said, “it’s ok,” You replied, “I’ll just be in the store setting up shop so come and visit when you’re done with the call.”
“I will,” Natasha promised before answering her phone. You turn the keys into your door and begin to set up shop.
You barely got through counting the drawer before Natasha comes through the door. The look on her face immediately got your attention. The redheaded woman leaned on your counter.
“Do you happen to know any artists that might have some pieces ready?” Natasha asks.
“Yeah my friend Steve,” You say, “I can give you his home number and his cell. His husband might answer though, his name is Bucky. If he asks how you got the number just tell him it was me.” You said as you quickly wrote the two seperate numbers on a piece of paper before handing it to Natasha.
“You are a lifesaver thank god.” Natasha praised.
“So who was on the phone?” You asked. Natasha groaned as she remembered how the heated discussion went.
“This artist that I had previously contracted to create some tattoo’s for us. He called to back out of the deal and since not all of the paperwork was signed he had every right to back out and take his pieces with him.”
“Why did he back out?”
“Didn’t say,” She responded, “but I owe you big time for this thank you so much.”
“Don’t mention it, Steve is the best and I’m sure he’ll appreciate the business.” You responded.
“Well if Steve is the best then I definitely owe you dinner at least.” Natasha said as she began to make her way to the door, “I’ll swing by around eight.”
As you were about to argue about it, she continued.
“No arguments,” Natasha cut off as she opened the door, throwing you an over the shoulder look before saying, “Just bring your pretty self Nancy Drew.” One of her blue eyes winks before sauntering off knowing how flushed your face is just from being called pretty.
—
The day had been busier than you anticipated. From one kid destroying a complicated book display to a karen or two saying this book or that book should be on sale when in reality it wasn’t. Finally the numerous people ceased and it was time to start closing shop.
You counted the drawer and left two hundred in the drawer, turned the sign to closed, re-did the book display, vacuumed and swept, wiped the counter, finally came to organize and restock the shelves.
You grabbed as many boxes of books as you could before returning to the shelves to stack. It was overall a tedious process, especially for the high shelves.
You were about to put the last one on the shelf when you heard the store door open.
“Hey are you rea-” Natasha began before the door closed behind her and the shelf in front of you collapsed. You sighed as you stepped down from the stepping stool to assess the damage, however the redhead had somehow beaten you to it.
“It looks like whoever installed this shelf for you didn’t know his ass from a hole in the ground.” She said as she picked up said shelf. “Thankfully I know my way around a drill and just so happen to have a million screws laying around next door.”
“Nat you don’t need to-”
“It’s not a problem Nancy Drew,” Natasha assured, “I’ll be right back with a couple of screws and a drill. We’ll have that fixed in no time.” and with that Natasha left the store out of the same door she just came in from. You start to get the books that had haphazardly fallen from the shelves and you prayed that none of the pages from the books had creased or any of the spines bent.
True to her word Natasha returned a few minutes later with a tool kit in one hand and a drill in another. Her usual leather coat was nowhere to be seen leaving her arms exposed.
You could see that she had one arm sleeved with tattooed webs and the other had a few miscellaneous tattoos here decorating her arm like ink on a canvas.
You watched patiently, being very careful not to let your eyes wander from her face. However you would catch yourself more than once staring at the way her tattoos moved with her muscles.
Once the shelf was properly installed and stacked the redheaded woman turned to you.
“I should probably check the other shelves to make sure they’re properly installed.” Natasha said, breaking you out of your trance.
“You don’t need to do that.” You quickly said. Not wanting to bother her further.
“It really isn’t a big deal.” Natasha assured, “what kind of neighbor would I be if I didn’t help you out huh?” She smiled as the argument on your lips fell silent.
“Fine but I’m ordering take out and you’re picking the place.” You said already reaching for your phone, Natasha was about to argue but was quickly cut off, “after all what kind of neighbor would I be if I allowed you to go hungry after doing me a favor?”
Natasha smiled as the argument fell silent on her lips.
—
After listing off a few different restaurants that deliver, Natasha settled on ordering a pepperoni pizza with wings and asked if you had any beer. After confirming that Natasha went straight to work on the shelves.
Natasha was done re-installing the shelves by the time the pizza and wings arrived. While dealing with the delivery person Natasha grabbed two ice cold beers from the cooler you brought downstairs from your apartment.
The night was spent in a bunch of laughter and conversation. You couldn’t remember the last time you had this much fun and felt this deep of a connection with someone. Even though it had been years since you had last seen each other and had a moment like this, you couldn’t help but feel like no time had passed. Like she was still your blue haired neighbor and you were her book obsessed best friend.
As the night dwindled you found yourselves laying on the floor next to each other in comfortable silence.
Well almost.
Despite feeling like no time had passed you can’t ignore that it did, you can’t forget how she got up and left one day. Without a word and you were left wondering for years what happened to her.
You still were trying to piece together what happened.
“Hey Nat?”
“Yeah?”
“Why did you leave?”
The question hung in the air for a second until you heard Natasha let out a shaky breath.
“I didn’t know we were going to until that day,” She said, “I wanted to say goodbye but I couldn’t.”
“Why though?” You asked.
“I just couldn’t,” She said, “I want to tell you more, I do. But just trust me when I say that it’s going to take time for me to actually put it into words.” There was a silence before she continued, “you deserve a proper explanation.”
“I do,” You agreed, “you were my best friend and you just disappeared. That hurt me and for a while I thought it was me-”
“No,” Natasha interrupted, “it wasn’t you.”
After another pause you continued.
“Whenever you can tell me,” You said, turning your head to look her in her oceanic eyes, “I’ll be here with open ears.”
Natasha smiled before you both turned your heads back to the ceiling. Your hands brushing against each other like it was old times again.
SUMMARY: After Wanda announces her engagement a familiar face returns into your life.
“(Y/n)!”
You heard the familiar chime of the doorbell and the familiar excited voice of your friend fill the relatively empty store. You whipped your head to her just in time to see her barrelling toward you and captured you in a bone crushing hug.
“Whoa there Wands,” You said as you returned the hug, “did something happen or are you just that happy to see me?”
Wanda quickly released you from her vice grip, “oh nothing much happened,” Wanda paused before holding up her left hand, “except this.” On her left hand on her ring finger sat a beautiful vintage ring.
“Oh my god!” You exclaim smiling as you grab her hand to get a closer look at the ring, it was simple in design but it really suited Wanda. ‘When did this happen?!”
“Last night,” Wanda reveals happily her smile never deterring, “Vis and I were watching reruns of the Dick Van Dyke Show, I told him how Mary’s ring was beautiful and next thing I know he asks ‘is it as beautiful as this ring’ next thing I know he’s down on one knee with the ring in his hand asking me to marry him.”
“I’m so happy for you and Vis.” You congrat Wanda as you and her continue to talk about her engagement for a few more minutes.
“Actually Vis and I were planning on going to the city tonight to celebrate, are you busy?” Wanda asks. You take a quick look at your calendar finding nothing but closing the store on the agenda for tonight.
“Nope,” You respond, “just have to close the store.”
“Close early and Vis and I will pick you up,” Wanda said, “We’re bringing Pietro, Steve, Bucky, and Monica with us.”
You hesitate for a bit, but you take one look into Wanda’s pleading eyes, the same eyes that have gotten you into more than your fair share of trouble since highschool, next thing you know you’re nodding your head in agreement.
Wanda lets out a small squeal before enveloping you once again in a small hug before saying goodbye and that Pietro will pick you up by seven.
As you continue about your day, stacking books and working the register you start to wonder when the last time you actually had a date was.
During the slow rush you decide to check your calendar again. You flip through each page until finally you land three months prior where you had plans to meet up with the local coffee barista at some bar you can’t remember the name of. What you do remember is that the date ended with you buying a half quart of ice cream and watching reruns of Gilmore Girls.
You check the clock and check the store to find it empty. You decide now would probably be a good time to close and to start getting ready for the night in the city with Wanda and the rest.
You turn the sign on the door to ‘closed’ and push all thoughts of dating to the back of your mind.
—
You had just slipped your shoes on when you heard Pietro knock on your door in the familiar pattern he’s done since high-school.
You answer the door to reveal Pietro. You always thought he had looked handsome in that mischievous way. But when he wears that white button up and slacks with his hair gelled back he is a special type of handsome.
“Well damn don’t we look fancy tonight?” You say as Pietro noticeably checks you out in the same appreciation. You did a small turn in your black dress that fell just mid thigh.
“And you don’t look too bad yourself Princeza,” Pietro said as he offered his arm in an overdramatic gentlemanly style. Which you responded in kind, laughing slightly as you made sure to lock the door behind you before finally heading out.
—
You were back in your parents backyard, sitting in that hammock with a book in your hands. Nancy Drew had wormed her way into eleven year old you’s heart, with all of her adventures and detective skills.
Just as you were about to reach the climax of the book you heard a familiar voice.
“Whatcha reading today?” You look away from the book and spot a familiar blue haired girl the same age. She was the neighbor that moved in about three years ago, Natasha, who quickly became your best friend.
“Nancy Drew,”
“Again?”
“There’s more than one Natty.” You responded, next thing you know the book is lifted from your hands and Natasha is hovering over you with the book in her hands.
“Naaat.” You whine as you try to reach for the book only to have her expertly move it away from you.
“C’mon,” Natasha says as she makes her way to the bushes separating your yard and hers, “adventure awaits.”
You struggle a little as you make your way out of your hammock and through the lush bushes to Natasha who slips through the crack in between.
“Nat,” you warn lightly.
“I promise I’ll give you the book back,” Natasha promises, “but first we go on an adventure! Grab your bike and meet me out front!”
“Where exactly is this adventure?”
“Just grab your bike, chatty cathy!”
You hear her footsteps rush over to her bike as you rush to yours.
By the time you let your parents know you’ll be riding your bike and get to the front of your house Natasha is already waiting for you.
Together you both rode your bikes until finally settling on a clearing near the local park. There was this big oak tree and in front of it a huge rock as well covered in green moss.
For a while both you and Natasha played by either climbing on the rock and proclaiming yourselves rulers of the land, climbing the tree, playing pretend in the most kid way possible.
However you would catch glimpses sometimes, you didn’t know what, but it made you worry for her. Like how sad she looked, or scared.
Finally, after being worn out by playing you both lay on the grass beneath you and watch as the fireflies began to dance around the big oak looking like thousands of moving stars.
You were enjoying the bit of peace and silence when you felt her hand hold yours. You look over and see the blue haired girl still staring at the millions of fireflies with a smile on her lips.
“Thank you for being my best friend.” She said gently as you looked away from her and continued watching the fireflies dance, until the sun finally set and it was time to go home.
She never did give that book back.
—
“Princeza, we’re here.” You hear the familiar accented voice say. You slowly open your groggy eyes to see the glittering lights of the city.
“How long was I out?”
“An hour.”
“So the whole car ride,” You say, you could see Pietro nod from the driver’s side, “I’m sorry.”
“What for?”
“I was asleep the whole car ride, you were probably bored.”
“No, I wasn’t bored,” Pietro said, “I know you haven’t been sleeping much because of the store.”
Here it comes.
“You need to start working less Princeza,” Pietro continued concerned, “you spend all your waking hours at the store, tending to your books, and life is going to pass you by.”
“Pietro-”
“I don’t mean to be harsh or rude,” Pietro quickly added, “it’s just I see you all the time at the store and nowhere else lately. I get that the store is demanding, but just try to make some time for yourself. Promise me?”
You look at him and can’t refuse.
“I promise.”
You can start relaxing tonight.
—
You came to quickly realize that clubbing really wasn’t your thing.
A pile of random sweaty bodies ground on each other on the dance floor to music that hurt your eardrums.
It wasn’t that you were judging anyone for liking this atmosphere, it just wasn’t your cup of tea, you preferred to stay on the sidelines and watch your friends dance.
And the full bar proved that you weren’t the only one.
You had looked away for a second to order a beer when you spotted someone familiar.
It was dark save for the flickering lights that illuminated her every once in a while. You couldn’t place where you knew her but you knew that you knew her. It was in the way she walked with a certain grace and her eyes were sharp enough to cut through you and you imagined her tongue was the same way.
She must have noticed you staring because the next thing you know she’s staring right at you. Your eyes lock and that’s when it hits you.
You didn’t recognize her without her blue hair.
Natasha.
You panic and turn back to the bar to order that beer you were going to order about five minutes ago. You mentally beat yourself up, if you didn’t look like a creep before you definitely did now.
You were so busy mentally assaulting yourself that you didn’t notice the redhead sauntering her way to you and sit on the empty barstool next to you.
“Well if it isn’t Nancy Drew.”
You turn your head and see Natasha there beside you. Her hair was shoulder length and no longer blue. Now her hair was it’s natural elegant red color, her blue eyes sharper than you remember as well as her cheekbones. You noticed hints of tattoos peeking out from the collar and sleeve of her leather coat.
“You never did return that book.”
You both couldn’t help the laugh that erupted. Even though it’s been years somehow it almost feels like no time has passed.
Almost.
“So what’ve you been up to?” Natasha asked, “still into books?”
“Uh yeah,” You confirm, “I actually own a bookshop back home.”
You see Natasha smile from ear to ear before taking a sip of what was your beer now it seems to be adopted by Natasha.
“That’s so you,” Natasha said before taking another sip from the beer bottle.
“Well what about you?” You ask, “what have you been up to?”
You could see the hesitancy in Natasha’s face, just as she was about to answer, however you see a light brown haired male come up beside her.
“Hey Nat, I hate to interrupt but we got a Budapest situation over here.” Natasha swerved her attention to where he pointed at the blonde who was obviously drunk off her ass putting a six foot tall man into a choke hold. Which you had to admire and be impressed at.
“I guess that’s my cue Nancy Drew,” Natasha said as she took one last sip from the beer bottle before abandoning it. As she was making her way through the crowd but before she got too far you saw her turn around.
“What was the name of your bookstore again, Nancy Drew?!” She yelled over the crowd.
“Oh-um- Summertime Stories!” You call out, you catch a glimpse of something in her eyes before it disappears.
A/N: Hey thank you for requesting it means a lot. Especially now that my schedule is way more lax than it was before. Also I previously posted this before I knew I was shadowbanned but now that issue has been resolved so I am re posting somethings that I posted before I knew I was shadowbanned.
Steve felt sick, he remembers getting sick when he was younger, however this was worse. He felt his stomach twist, his chest tighten, and his entire body felt as heavy as lead.
Laughter filled the reception room as Steve contemplated leaving with an early morning mission as an excuse when suddenly the room went quiet.
“May I present for the first time,” The announcer said, “Mr and Mrs. Barnes.”
Steve could feel his heart drop to his stomach as he saw you and Bucky enter the room. Bucky had the biggest grin on his face as his hand held yours. You looked radiant, the dress you chose flattered you and accentuated the loveliness that was your figure. Your hair had been pinned and adorned with flowers and Steve couldn’t help but think that you looked ethereal, your smile lit up your entire face that gave you a certain glow. However there was a pang of jealousy as he saw how your eyes looked at Bucky like he was the only one in the room, he couldn’t stop the thought of it should be him instead of Bucky.
Steve felt sick, and he knew why.
He watched as your first dance began, the way Bucky was holding you gently to him as you swayed on the dance floor. The way Bucky whispered in your ear as you danced, the way Steve saw you breath him in, looking more in love than he ever saw you.
You were Steve’s once, once Steve held you like that, once Steve warmed your bed and held you at night, once it was Steve that put that starry look in your eye.
But that was a long time ago.
Steve tried to smile and act like his heart wasn’t beating painfully, like he didn’t want to grab you and tell you that while you weren’t his, he was still yours.
Steve downed his drink in one go before continuing to watch you happily sway with your husband, his best friend.
He couldn’t fault Bucky for falling for you, nor could he fault him for marrying you. Bucky deserved to be happy and right now Steve could see he’s the happiest he’s been since the forties when he was with you.
That doesn’t stop the jealous thoughts entering his head, about how Steve should’ve been the one at the altar with you. Steve should’ve been the one who wakes you up every morning and kisses you to sleep at night. Steve should’ve been the one you spent the rest of your life with.
Not Bucky.
But Bucky is the one you’ll do all that with and more.
Not Steve.
As he watches the dance end Steve begins to wonder where it all went wrong between you and him.
Then he remembered.
Peggy Carter.
Steve never should’ve gone back to her, he didn’t even get past knocking on her door before he realized what an idiot he was and made his way back home to you.
When he came back he realized he was too late.
It was four years later and you were engaged to Bucky, you had moved on.
That was a year ago and he wishes he can take it all back, wishes he can be the one for you like you were the one for him.
But he can’t.
So all he can do now is drink, and pretend like he was alright.
The reception went smoothly, people ate, danced, and drank to their heart’s content. There was nothing but laughter and love in the air. Steve downed one glass of whiskey after another for a buzz that never came.
The toasts came and went and when Steve’s turn came to give a toast it felt like he was swallowing nails. Each word hurt, even more so when you smiled at him that bittersweet smile he knew so well now.
Steve retreated back to the bar where he ordered another whiskey, wanting the burn of the liquid to distract him from the pain in his heart. He knew this day was going to hurt, he just didn’t imagine it would hurt this much.
When the party was at its height Steve saw his opportunity to slip away unnoticed. However, things never went to plan.
Steve had just gotten through the front doors of the reception hall before he heard footsteps approaching him.
“Where do you think you’re going punk?” Bucky asked as he made his way to the blonde supersoldier.
“Got an early mission tomorrow so I think I’m gonna call it a night, I didn’t want to be a buzzkill and all so I thought I could sneak out without anyone noticing.” Steve explained, Bucky grabbed the tall man’s shoulder.
“Hey you’re not a buzzkill and you’re our friend of course we would notice if you left before the big announcement.”
“Big announcement?”
“Yeah,” Bucky said grinning from ear to ear, “I’m actually glad we’re alone right now because I wanted to tell you one on one.”
“Tell me what?”
“(Y/n)’s pregnant,” Bucky said excitedly, “we’re going to be parents.”
Steve swore he felt the earth stop spinning and time slow down. Steve couldn’t feel anything, the shock still running its course.
“I’m happy for you Buck,” Steve said with a smile.
“I’m happy too Steve,” Bucky said, “I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. If I knew then what I know now, all the pain and torture would lead to this right here. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
Steve congratulated Bucky one last time before Bucky headed back to you.
He was still in shock by the time the crisp night air nipped at him, it didn’t hit him until he passed by the window and he could see the reception from inside. He could see you curled up next to Bucky, your hand unconsciously over your stomach while you drank sparkling water.
Suddenly it felt all too real, he could feel every emotion he had buried since coming back. Everything became too much as he sunk to the ground beside the window, his breathing became erratic as he felt the tears slip past his eyes. He could hardly breathe through the pain.
Steve had been sick plenty of times.
Steve had been injured plenty of times.
Stabbed, shot, injected, and lost so many people he had loved.
But nothing compared to this.
Because Steve had no one to blame but himself.
Steve loved you so much, so much and he tossed it all away.
And there was nothing he could ever do to take it all back.
Conflicting Interests (Dark! Moon Knight x Reader) the Knight and Pawn series
Hey so another shorter chapter! Super tired but just trying to get one chapter in a day as a challenge.
Anyways here comes the trigger warnings.
TRIGGER WARNINGS! SLIGHT (AND I MEAN VERY SLIGHT) SEXUAL CONTENT, DARK THEMES AHEAD! ANGST!
Also I tried to be realistic when it came to being bilingual, however I myself am not so if any translations are confusing or something doesn’t make sense let me know!
Morning rolled around and he was gone, you had nearly thought you dreamt it up.
However when you rolled over you could smell him on the sheets. The smell of cedar, smoke, and rain, all the years you’ve known him he’s always had that smell, even in highschool.
You stared at the wall on the side he slept that night and your mind began to wander. Where was that friend now? You thought, where was yourMarc, the one who you snuck out to go stargazing with every saturday night, the one who you called when you got too drunk to drive, the one who you could just put on any old vinyl you had and just sit comfortably in silence with.
Where was your best friend?
This Marc smelled the same, he looked like Marc, he dressed like Marc.
But he wasn’t, not really.
However, maybe this is how he always was…you just refused to see it.
You remembered him getting into a lot of fights with kids at school but never you, he was always so gentle when it came to you. It got worse after Randall died. There was almost never a week that passed by without Marc getting into a scuffle with someone, most of the time it was someone who had bullied you or insulted you. At the time you thought he was just being over protective of you, however you wondered if maybe there was something more, something darker to it than that.
Despite all of that, Marc was your first. First love, first kiss, first everything.
At that goddamn cabin.
Marc was joking about being the only virgin in the marines when you offered to change that for him, no strings attached of course because you were still in denial about your own romantic feelings towards him then.
It’s kind of funny, you used to look at the night and smile.
Now you wonder just how far his obsession with you went, if that night was orchestrated by him or if it happened exactly how you remembered.
You may never truly know.
You didn’t even register the amount of time passing until the typical knock against the door broke you away from those thoughts. You saw it was neither Marc or Steven, the hat on his head and the way he looked at you was different.
Jake.
You were already burned by Steven so now you were cautious. You didn’t know how this would go, you sat up in the bed as Jake brought your food to you. Sausage with Waffles with coffee on the side. His hands envelop yours as he looks in your eyes, his dark iris’s reflecting against yours.
“I missed you mi ojos de angel,” Jake said before kissing your cheek, “you have no idea what I’ve had to put up with, with those idiotas,”Jake didn’t let go of your hand once as he ranted about all the things you’ve missed out on these past 3 years. Every inconvenience, minor transgression, talking about everything except the elephant in the room.
“Jake,” You interrupted him, he immediately stopped talking and was solely focused on you, “is there a plan?”
“Yes,”Jake said, for a split moment hope runs through you like lightning before the thunderous feeling of uneasiness settled in your gut as you noticed the same obsession in his eyes that you saw in Stevens and Marcs.
“The plan is getting you comfortable to be around us again,” Jake started, “and then one day,” Jake pauses his face scrunches as he mutters curse words in spanish, “I can’t remember the word,” another second goes by before he snaps his fingers as his face lit up in a eureka moment, “preferably, that’s the word I was looking for, preferably soon, we will get married.”
And just like that your heart drops, Jake had been your last hope of getting out of here. He must have noticed your crestfallen look as his hands went from being entangled in yours to gently holding your face.
“Why such a sad face,” Jake asked, brushing the tears you didn’t realize were rolling down your cheeks, “ojos de angel, mi ojos de angel, no te preocupes angel, everything will be ok.”
“I promise.”
—
After spending an hour with Jake he proceeded to leave with the empty plate your waffles were on moments ago, along with all your hopes.
The rest of the day passed in a blur, you got dressed in the clothes laid out for you, you made the bed, you re-read some books that Steven left for you in the room, most if not all of them were Egyptian themed, then finally you took a bath. Even though the water was scalding, and the scents from the lavender epsom salt poured in, you still found it difficult to relax.
You had just settled into the bed when the same routine that had played last night came to pass again.
Marc came in and just slept beside you, he never did anything more than just hold you beside him.
And once again you muscles relaxed fully under his touch.
—
That kind of night had become routine, you gathered that Marc waited until you fell asleep to come in and sleep beside you. And you’ve just accepted that for whatever reason, your body melted and relaxed with him.
The heart, mind, and body were separate things.
Although he may have had your body fooled, your mind and heart were different matters entirely. You neither forgave him nor forgot him.
You were positive you’ve been here for almost half a year if not exactly, your hair had grown and time passed by in a blur.
You were in bed when you felt the other side of the bed dip beside you, at first you thought nothing of it. It was just routine.
That was until he turned you over to face him. His dark eyes were wide and his hands gently caressed your face.
Ceder, smoke, and rain filled your every sense.
Marc said nothing as he kissed you, his lips pressed firmly and expertly against yours, you could taste him. Mint, chocolate with a hint of coffee. Your heart beat erratically against your chest and your mind swirled, so many thoughts and emotions running through your veins you could hardly keep up. You didn’t know your hands were in his hair until you felt the dampness in his hair and the scent of rain clouded your better judgment.
You were conflicted, not wanting this to continue.
But still wanting his lips on yours.
Large, calloused hands ghost themselves over your side, leaving goosebumps in their wake. He was gentle, like you would tear if he was rougher.
And in his defense you probably would.
Marc’s hands got braver, ghosting over your waistband and your stomach. Never going any further than that, something that the last sensible part of you that wasn’t taken over by your lust hazed mind were thankful for.
This lasted for a while, him just caressing you while kissing you like you were everything.
And to him you were.
You knew better than to confuse this with actual tenderness and love, especially on your part. You knew what it was.
You were lonely.
Any form of physical, intimate touch would have you in a puddle in an instant. You felt the warm outline of hiim press against you once before you felt him pull away roughly, like he had to force himself to. He didn’t say anything as he walked over to the adjacent bathroom and closing the door, you stared up at your ceiling wondering if the tingle on your lips was real or if your mind and body had just played a major trick on you.
After a while you saw Marc come back and laid beside you, you immediately melted into his touch as he wrapped his arms around you.
“I’m sorry,” Marc apologized, “It was a rough night. ”
When you didn’t respond he just laid there, you could feel yourself start to drift off with him.
Your final thought before falling into the sweet arms of unconsciousness was how fucked it was that you wanted to kiss him again.
Exit Strategy (DARK! Moon Knight x Reader) the Knight and Pawn Series.
Hey so I didn’t expect this to get so popular, so I would like to say thank you for that. I’ve thought a bit about where I want this series to go I just want to say this.
I don’t condone any of these actions of these characters, this is a work of fiction.
anyways with that out of the way my taglist is open, so in case you wanted to be a part of it go ahead and ask in the ask box, even if you just want to say hi it’s right there.
This chapter is a bit shorter since I have to go somewhere early tomorrow and I didn’t have a lot of time to write today, but I’m trying to push one chapter a day as a challenge for me.
Anyways as always, triggering material below, Minors DNI, and thank you for reading.
You didn’t know how many days passed by since thatday.
You replayed that scene in your mind over and over again. The sickening crack, his final words to you, everything you could have done differently. You even made a list in your head.
You could have run faster.
You could have fought harder.
You could have gone in the middle of the night.
You could have loved him better.
You could have not loved him at all.
The last one was the one you always came back to. If it hadn’t been for you, had it not been for your love for him, Alec would be alive.
Alec would still be alive if it wasn’t for you.
You thought about his mom, his sister, his friends and family and all that would miss him and you hated yourself. Because if it wasn’t for you, they would still have Alec.
You were the cause of all of this.
So maybe this is what you deserved.
Every morning Marc would bring you breakfast, it was usually a blueberry bagel with cream cheese and fruit, usually accompanied with a cup of coffee. The first morning came and you didn’t touch it, same with lunch and dinner. Second day came with the same routine. When the third day came he practically forced the food down your throat, not caring if you protested against him. It was that day that you learned to eat the food he gave you, even if you would rather starve.
You hadn’t been out of the room since your arrival, but from what you knew, this wasn’t the flat in London that Steven or Marc owned. It was somewhere new, somewhere bigger and a lot less dingy. The room you were in had an adjacent bathroom and it was a decent size, marble counters and a clawfoot tub. You didn’t know how Marc could afford all of this when he was struggling to make ends meet before you parted ways.
Three knocks on the door resounded the quiet room, it was always three knocks before he entered in case you weren’t decent.
Not like he cared anyway.
When the dark haired man entered the room you immediately knew it wasn’t Marc, with his hair more unkempt and the soft sweater adorning him you knew instantly who he was.
Your Steven with a V.
“Steven?” You asked quietly in disbelief, you could see his eyes light up and a smile stretch his face. You slowly went up to him, looking in his eyes trying to see if it was one of Marc’s cruel jokes. But you saw no traces of the man who took everything you loved, and once you did the force of the hug you gave Steven nearly knocked the wind out of him. You cried into his chest, possibly ruining the soft sweater he was wearing.
“Not that I don’t want the hug sweetheart, but I don’t want to spill your breakfast.” Steven said as you let go of him, he set the breakfast tray down gently beside you before opening his arms again, beckoning you back into the embrace before, which you happily gave into. You stayed like that a while, sobs wracking your body as you breathed in the scent of his sweater. Which only made you sob harder.
Because Steven smelled like him.
Once you were so dehydrated that crying did not seem like a possibility anymore, you greedily gulped the water Steven gave you and bit into the piece of toast that came with your breakfast.
“So what’s the plan?” You asked, swallowing the bite of crunchy toast before downing it with water.
“What plan?” Steven asked as he gave you a cute confused look, one that you thought resembled that of a first grader.
“Theplan Steven,” You said, “the plan to get me out of here before Marc comes back.”
You weren’t anticipating the long pause that followed, Steven sighed as he gently took your hand in his, rubbing circles against your skin. His dark eyes bore into you something unlike him, borderline dark.
“There isn’t a plan sweetheart,” Steven said looking you in the eye, you weren’t sure if you were processing this correctly.
“What do you mean there isn’t a plan?” You asked, your voice shaking nervously. You heard him sigh again, his hands playing with yours. Something he did absentmindedly, without knowing he did.
“I mean there isn’t one,” Steven said, all at once it clicked and you withdrew your hand away from him as though he was on fire.
Steven wasn’t going to help you.
Steven was going to keep you.
“I thought you were better than him.”
“I am.”
“No you’re not,” you said, retracting yourself away from Steven, “you’re doing exactly what he’s doing.” You recoil away as Steven tries to touch you again.
“I’m not,” He defended, “we love you sweetheart, we always have. We tried keeping Marc away from you as best we could for those few years, but when news of your engagement reached us. We all agreed, Alec didn’t deserve you-”
“You’re right,” you said, “Alec didn’t deserve what I did to him.” You said, reciting the list in your head of all you could have done differently.
“We love you,” Steven repeated, “when you said you needed time away from Marc we agreed. Marc was in the wrong for what he did, but we didn’t think you were going to leave like that. That you were going to run off with some other good looking chap.”
“But I didn’t ‘run off’ with him.” You corrected, “I just fell in love with him.” You dropped to the ground, back against the wall and your knees to your chest. Your heart was breaking all over again with betrayal, this time from the one person you didn’t expect it from.
Your sweet Steven with a V.
You were unresponsive when Steven knelt to your height and enveloped you in a hug, you tried not to melt into his touch as he rubbed soothing circles against your back. You stayed like that for a minute or two before Steven let you go.
“We’ve got to go take care of a few things sweetheart,” he whispers as he gives the top of your head a kiss, “We’ll be back soon to give you some more clothes,” he gets up from the ground and to the door, and before he closes it he says goodbye.
“Laters Gators.”
And then suddenly you were alone again.
—
Night rolled in and you laid in bed, half asleep half awake, after spending the last year and a half with someone beside you every night, it was a hard adjustment to sleeping alone. You barely got a couple of hours in before you would wake up.
You weren’t sure what time it was, you assumed very early in the morning when you felt the bed dip beside you and a muscular arm wrap itself around your torso. You involuntarily tensed, giving away your lucid state.
“Go back to sleep starlight,” Marc whispered in your ear before placing a gentle kiss against your shoulder, “I won’t do anything funny without your permission.”
And with that you pretended to sleep until you felt him take slow, deep, and steady breaths in. You tried to move away only for his arm to hold you tighter against him still.
So whether or not you liked it, that’s where you stayed for the remainder of the night, embraced by the man who killed your fiance, and whether or not you liked it.
For the first time since he brought you there, you had a restful night’s sleep.
You roused to the smell of wet earth and the radio crackling faintly. An overall mellow song filled your room, you reached to the other size of the bed instinctively, however you were only met with the faintest sense of warmth as your eyes trace their indent on your bed. You bury your face in their pillow, the smell of their shampoo filled your senses and a small smile graced your features.
You groaned as you stretched and got out of the bed, by far the softest bed you’ve slept in. You actually couldn’t for a while, but now, it was comforting. You grabbed your pale blue housecoat and tied it loosely around your waist as you made your way to the window, watching the rain gently stream down your window pane.
It was hard to believe it’s been three years since you’ve started this life, away from everything you once held so dear to you.
You can’t help but miss him sometimes.
Marc had been your friend since you could remember, when life got tough you were each other’s cornerstone. He was also your first love, he held your hand and kissed your forehead. Then Steven and Jake came along and you couldn’t help but love them as well.
Marc was your friend before he became this.
You missed Layla too, her smiles and the way during the nights when Marc didn’t come home until late, you both would have movie nights. Popcorn, candy, and trash movies that Marc hated watching. By the middle of the movie the tv would be turned down and it just turned into a chatting session. You regret not telling her goodbye, you wouldn’t blame her if she was pissed off.
You worried occasionally, that this piece of happiness you worked so hard to have and hold would be ripped away from you from the one person who put a smile on your face everyday.
Steven and Jake kept their word, they’ve held Marc back. You smiled thinking about them.
Your boys.
You were brought out of your thoughts by a pair of lips against your temple, the familiar scent of fresh cut grass and brown sugar relaxes your body.
“Good morning lovely,” He whispered against your temple as he placed your cup of iced coffee in your hands. You get sick when you drink hot coffee, so you smile as you notice he remembers such a small detail every morning.
“Good morning to you too, handsome,” You said as you looked into his amber eyes. You met about a year after you initially left Marc, it started off as a few dates, then a few dates turned into this.
“What were you thinking about?”
“Just morning thoughts Alec,” you assured before you kissed his lips, he tasted of chocolate and just something uniquely him.
“Do these thoughts have something to do with the ring on your left finger,” he asked gently, “we can push the date back if you’re having doubts, love.”
“Not a chance,” you said, “like it or not in a few days you’re shackled with me the rest of your life.” you gently kissed him again.
“Shouldn’t I be saying that to you?” You laughed and kissed again. Leaning your head against his for a moment, enjoying this.
“What time is it?” you asked.
“About time we start the typical 9 to 5.” he said before kissing you one last time before slipping away. You always did love to watch him walk away in some sort of cheap appreciation.
You sighed as you drank bits of your coffee here and there while you got ready for your job as an analyst at SWORD. After hearing of your departure from Moon Knight, they offered you a job straight away. You requested not to be put in the field directly if they could help it, wanting to put the life of violence away for the rest of your days.
You typically wore dress pants, however, you felt in the mood to dress up a bit so a knee length pencil skirt was with a green button down blouse. You placed light makeup on, earrings, and your hair in a semi stylish ponytail. You looked well put together, felt like it too, it was a goddamn trip. You never thought you would get here, a normal life, a typical nine to five job, a home, the beginnings of a family.
You grabbed your trench coat and kissed your fiance goodbye. You don’t know why but you felt particularly grateful for the life you have today.
—
It was break time already, and typically when your break started is when night shift started coming in to start theirs. You were pretty close to some of them so you decided to grab a few coffee’s while out and about for an hour for them.
You knew a cool, hole in the wall, cafe’s where they made pretty decent coffee at a decent price.
Seriously with inflation the way it is, cafe’s like this were life savers.
After you ordered four coffee’s and a sandwich for you, you glanced around, people watching.
This place was typically for couples or meet ups. There were about two couples here and one person alone, hidden behind the screen of a laptop. The couples seemed happy, if not a little awkward. However, what weirded you out a little was the person whose face was obscured, you couldn’t get a vibe off of him. A blank slate and that puts you off. You were brought out of your hyper focused state by the person behind you with your order. You thanked her and even gave her a small tip.
You made your way out of the shop and back onto the streets of the city. For some reason your senses were sharper now, your pulse was racing, and you were seventy percent sure that someone was following you. You waited for about a block before you decided yeah, there was someone following you in broad daylight. You looked for a thick and full crowd and luckily, the afternoon lunch rush was coming in. You took advantage of the obnoxiously large and dense crowd to disappear, despite the cold you took your trench coat off and took your hair out of the ponytail. It wasn’t much but you knew from experience that even a slight change of appearance, especially in a crowd would be to your advantage.
You breathed a sigh of relief as the stress in your body released ever so slightly. Feeling the ominous presence fade. When you reached SWORD and gave everyone their coffee you were nearly convinced you had just made the situation up, PTSD playing tricks on your mind.
That was until there was a ding on your phone.
“Darcy’s Bar after work”
At first you think it was a wrong number.
“Don’t be late (Y/n)”
Shit.
—
You could barely focus on your work the rest of the day, the pit in your stomach was as heavy as lead and your leg refused to stay still. Your mind raced, someone followed you in broad daylight and knew your number. You raked your brain for people who would have the gall or motive to do this to you.
You knew the answer.
You just didn’t want to admit it.
You gathered your stuff once your shift was over, called Alec to let him know you would be home a little later than usual today and called over a taxi to take you to the bar. Once there you immediately wanted to turn and run, but you knew if you did he would find you. You can only assume he knew where you lived since he knew your number, and by now your schedule. You were sure of it.
With a deep breath in you walked through the doors of the bars, it was classy, not anything too terribly fancy, but classy nonetheless. You walked over to the bar, You could easily see your reflection in the gloss of the wood.
“What will you be having?”
“Just water.”
“C’mon now don’t tell me you stopped drinking too.”
Your blood froze, all of your muscle became stone and your bones turned to sand. Time may have passed, but that was still his voice. The Chicago accent tinged his Tenor voice lightly, endearingly. The smell of sand and old books filled your lungs. You didn’t even need to look at him to know who was beside you.
“Marc.”
“Long time no see Starlight.”
“How did you find me?” You asked, still not looking at him, the bartender sets your class of water and a shot beside it. He muttered a ‘on the house’ before returning to his other duties.
“Let’s go sit somewhere else,” Marc said, “somewhere you can’t look away.” It wasn’t a suggestion, you knew it wasn’t. You downed the shot beside your water before going to the booth in the corner. You didn’t speak a word to him the entire time, it wasn’t until he slid in on the other side of the booth that you saw him properly. His eyes were still the midnight color, matching his hair, only now there was a light peppering happening. Skin tanned and practically glowing underneath the ambient lighting of the bar. He was dressed in a simple black button up and black slacks. Yet he looked like a million bucks. You could even catch the glint of the golden star of David on his neck.
“How did you find me?”
“Nice to see you too Starlight.”
“Stop calling me that,” you bit back. You could see his thick brows furrowing and his eyes sharpening, forming a very dangerous and frustrated look.
“Would you prefer me call you Lovely like he does,” Marc asked in a sharp and underlying threatening tone, “if that’s the case you can just call me handsome, like you do him” A chill ran through you, he knew a lot apparently, because this is what this was. A demonstration of power and knowledge on his part.
“What do you want?”
“I want you to come home.” He said with his eyes pleading, he reached out for your hand but you took it away, “come home Starlight please.”
“I have a home,” you said, “and it’s not with you.”
He was about to say something when you cut him off.
“Why would I even come back to you, so you can use me as a meat shield repeatedly again, will you not be satisfied until I literally give my life for you and your moon sized ego.” Your head tilted to the side, eyes narrowing on his figure, “I have a life now Marc, I have a home, a job, and someone to look forward to seeing every morning.”
“I heard,” he said, “Mazel Tov on your engagement to that asshole by the way.”
“No,” You said, “no you are the asshole Marc. You were my best friend, and after everything we’ve gone through together. Ammit, your mother, and Randall. After all of that you just tossed me aside-”
“I didn’-”
“Yes Marc Spector,” You said, “You left me to die. You left me to die five times when I NEVER would’ve done that to you. Even if it cost me my life I would never have left you for dead.” You didn’t care what he would do to you anymore, “so tell me Spector, why should I come back to a person who betrayed me loyalty and trust?”
“Because if you don’t” He started, leaning towards you, “I’ll kill him.”
You didn’t care what he did to you.
But to Alec.
You cared very much.
“When did you come to hate me so much?” You asked, tears pricking your eyes. You feel his calloused hands envelop yours and it took all of you not to push him away.
“I’ve never hated you.”
“Why won’t you let me be happy,” You asked desperately, “for the first time in such a long time I have a home. I’m about to have a family-”
“You’ve always had a family,” Marc said, cutting you off, “me, I’m your family.”
“No Marc,” You said, “you’re my keeper. You’re also a hypocrite. You can’t say this whole ‘I’m your family,’ and come here threatening to kill the love of my life when you already found Layla.”
“Layla and I divorced.”
“So,” You said, “so you what, want me back as a replacement? That’s sick Marc, it’s cruel, it’s something Konshu would do.”
“No!” Marc raised his voice before lowering it and regaining his composure, “I’m nothing like him.”
“Could’ve fooled me.” Marc sighed, rubbing his hands over his face before taking a deep breath in.
“I owed a debt,” Marc started, “I didn’t tell you everything about how I became Moon Knight. The job was simple but my partner got greedy, I tried getting the hostages out but… I couldn’t save them. All of them died and I couldn’t save them. I was going to die too, but then Konshu came and the rest you know.”
“I don’t see how this is connected with you owing a debt.”
“I would’ve died had it not been for Abdallah El Faouly,” he revealed, “he took the shot that was for me.”
It took then for it to click, Layla, Marc being protective over her.
“You married her out of guilt,” You said in disbelief, “Layla loved you and you married her out of guilt,” You go to get up but are brought back down.
“You’re not listening-”
“I’m listening just fine,” You said, “But answer me something, Spector, if you owed a debt to Layla, why not give her the man responsible for her fathers death. An eye for an eye.”
“My partner harmed the travelers of the night,” Marc said, “he was the first on Konshu’s list that night”
“So we’re back at, you married her out of guilt.”
He was getting frustrated, you could tell.
“You’re still not listening”
“I’m pretty sure I’m listening and understanding things very clearly.”
“No you’re not,” He said, his eyes unwavering against yours, “If it was not for the debt I owed I would have married you.” You sat there, unmoving, you don’t think you could move if you tried, “I’ve loved you everyday of my life but it was never the right time. I was dealing with my mother, then the military, then konshu, then Layla. It just was never the right time for us, then you left. Steven and Jake would take over the moment I made some progress on finding you. It took me three years, and in those three years Layla realized my feelings for you and divorced me from the debt I owed and from the marriage. In those three years you’ve had the life you’ve always wanted, what you’ve always deserved. Something I could never give you.”
“Then why do you want to rip it away from me?” You asked, “If you love me so much why betray me, you don’t betray the ones you love Marc.”
“I’ve decided something,” He said, “I’ve given my life for others. Even letting others feed off of it, like parasites. Steven, Jake, Konshu. I punish those who harm others, I’ve saved countless others. I deserve to be selfish, just this once, I deserve to have the person I want most in this world.”
“Marc that doesn’t make any sense,” You said head spinning, “You left me, you deserted me without backup not caring if I lived or died.”
“That’s not true,” he said, “Did you seriously believe that all those times you came back alive it was because you were lucky? I sent Konshu to make sure you stayed alive, however he is a fickle fucking bird and didn’t do it as well as he should have.”
You got up and were about to leave, Marc sat there as you were about to leave, his voice rang out.
“You have 24 hours to say goodbye to Alec, your friends at SWORD. If you try to run, I will kill each and everyone one of them, one by one. So I suggest you don’t run Starlight.”
And with that you left, heels clicking against the pavement, the lights of the city illuminating the tears strewn on your face, and the weight in your stomach worsened.
This was going to be the hardest thing you’ve ever had to do.
For real, I got into the MCU with Thor. Loki has been there for me since I was 12. If I lost him, I honestly don’t know what I would do or who I would be. It would literally be a Nexus event for me.
In the next spiderman Im convinced the way that Ned is gonna remember Peter is they’re gonna do their handshake based on muscle memory and Ned is gonna be really confused but Peter will try and explain. Ned is also exactly the Sci fi nerd who will believe it.
Guess who finally got Covid?! Yeah, it’s me. I wanted to write something to make me feel a bit better. For this I only included some of my favorites but I can add more to future preferences :)
Bucky - When you’re sick, Bucky would give you your space unless you specifically ask otherwise. He would make you meals, keep your room tidy, bring you anything you need, and then clear out for a while to let you rest. He would always be just a holler away though in case you needed him. He would also take over your responsibilities that you are unable to take care of while you are sick so you don’t stress out or fall behind. He wouldn’t tell you that he’d done it though. He would just quietly take care of things and leave you to heal.
Loki - When you’re sick, Loki would make sure that you had the absolute best care that was available. He would find the best healers in Asgard and bring them to you, waiting impatiently by your door until they were done helping you so that he could be by your side. He would cuddle up in bed next to you with not a single worry about getting sick. Anything you ask for he would provide in excess, giving you the best of whatever you need so that you’re healed quickly.
Tony - When you’re sick, Tony would make sure that you had everything that you needed to heal before heading off to work. He would get up early to make sure he has a little bit of time with you before he has to leave. He wouldn’t leave until he knows that you’re okay. Once he’s gone he calls to check on you throughout the day. If he doesn’t hear from you for too long he sends someone to the house with water and medicine to make sure you’re still alive and doing well.
Steve - When you’re sick, Steve would be a little bit old fashioned in taking care of you. He would force you to stay in bed, make you chicken noodle soup, keep you comfortable, read to you and draw you pictures to entertain you, anything that you could possibly need. He’d ask for a list of anything you need and you’d give it to him so he could make a shopping trip for you. He would stay close by and be only too happy to help you whenever you need him.
Frank - When you’re sick, Frank would be really chill and loving. He would call out of work so he can spend the day with you. Even when you’re sick he isn’t afraid to tease you and you dish it right back. He would make you get out of bed to move around the house so you can get some circulation even when you complain. He uses a firm but gentle hand to make sure you’re being taken care of properly. He’d also order your favorite takeout while you watch dumb movies and he’d play the guitar for you while you fall asleep next to him.
Billy - When you’re sick, Billy would be very matter of fact about helping you. He would give you medicine, check your temperature, and then he would disappear. You have no idea where he’s gone until he appears later on to check on you again. Towards the end of the day, you tell him that you want him to stay for a bit. While he doesn’t necessarily see why, he gets into bed with you and simply holds you for some time while you enjoy his company.
Stephen - When you’re sick, Stephen would not necessarily be the most attentive boyfriend but he would know exactly what to do to make you feel better. As much as he wants to help you and make you well, he wouldn’t want to risk getting himself sick either. He would give you the proper medicines, lots of fluid, and a little kiss on the forehead before heading off to work and letting you rest.
Vision - When you’re sick, Vision would know just what to do to make you better. Much like Stephen, he would know all of the proper ways to care for you but he would also not be worried about getting sick so he’d stay by your side and help to keep your mind off the discomfort. He’d lay in bed and watch your favorite movies with you and cook your favorite foods to comfort you. Plus he’d give lots of little kisses.
Druig- When you’re sick, Druig would be so gentle with you. Normally he’s not afraid to mess with you but once you’re sick he is terrified of doing something to hurt you. You reassure him that you’re okay and help show him what to do. He does anything that you ask of him before curling up in your arms, stroking your hair and telling you how much he loves you. When you cough or sneeze he’d be a bit freaked but you’d calmly stroke his arm and cuddle closer to him.
Dane- When you’re sick, Dane would be the sweetest ever. He’s not the best with the actual sick part but you tell him the things you need and he is very diligent about helping once you do. After you’ve got everything you need he would do anything to cheer you up. He would be cracking jokes and making you laugh all day, just being a general goofball just to see you smile again. He would also cook you a really nice meal that you’ve both been wanting to try for a while.
Part 1 to The Will and The Way — Series masterlist can be found here
Summary: and so the story begins…
Pairing: OC x Thor x Loki (love triangle) (not really in this chapter yet)
Warnings: None
Despite the early hour, Asgard was far from quiet. In fact, the entire city was buzzing with an odd mix of excitement and mourning. King Odin had passed many months ago, but the love for him among his people was strong as ever.
Still, today was a day of great importance. Asgard had been without a proper leader for far too long, the people were ready for the change that was certain to come this morning. Odin had picked up on the habits of Midgardians, and he’d been wise enough to write out what they called a will, ensuring his final wishes were set in stone, unable to be changed at the whim of any one.
He had even had an enchantress come and mark the document with a seal, a binding of its words that could not be tarnished, nor tainted by anything other than her own power.
While some citizens found this practice odd, others did not question it, given Prince Loki’s habit of slipping through the cracks and making choices for the throne on his own. To them, this was a security blanket. To him, it was a massive brick wall in the way.
“Astrid! Wake up! It is time for the royal will to be read, we must hurry.” The young girls roommate urged, pulling her out of bed by her arm, earning loud grumbles from under the covers.
“We are both a part of the royal staff, if we do not show, you know someone will scold us!” The other girl says, begging for her friend to awaken.
“No one will notice our absence. But if you are so worried of such an unlikely occurrence, go on without me.” The covered girl orders, her voice groggy with sleep. For a palace maid, Astrid had never been one for mornings. She preferred nights, where she could watch the stars in peace.
Finally, after a beat of silence, she groaned in what sounded like agony and literally rolled out of the bed, her fiery reddish hair emerging from the blanket oasis she’d been in seconds before.
“Go, go. I will just get dressed and join you.” She insists, her full lips curling into a grin as her friend hesitantly runs off to join the mornings preparations. From what they’d both been told, there would be a grand ball in the name of whichever of the princes “won” everything.
For Astrid, the competition between the two was pointless and frivolous. There were more important issues in the world than who got to call themself king. It should matter more which of them would rule Asgard with a steady and fair hand, not which looked better with a crown and a throne.
To her, the will was merely a reminder of the Kings dramatics with his sons, along with the competitive nature the two of them shared with each other.
“Besides, Prince Thor is the one with the advantage. He always had Odin’s favor really.” She thought to herself as she tied her hair back into a twist, her daily hairstyle of choice.
The only royal Astrid had ever really taken a liking to was Frigga. She had been one of the maids who spent most of their time in her wing of the castle, and she had always been a friendly, kind woman to the staff. There were even a few times that the Queen had offered Astrid and her friends favors, small things to make their jobs easier or to make their free time more enjoyable.
Astrid could remember a handful of times where Frigga had walked through the gardens with her, just to chat with someone outside her circle. Though she was never one of her ladies maids, Astrid might as well have been. The two of them were much closer than she remembered any of the other staff being with anyone, since she hardly counted those that the princes (mostly Thor) schmoozed with or seduced to be “close” to them.
In fact, Astrid had been in the room when Queen Frigga was murdered and she carried that memory with her everyday, every time she walked into the room that she had perished in. Honestly, she was surprised the king continued to use the space, but she knew better than to say anything about it.
As she looked over her plain appearance in the mirror, Astrid wondered what could possibly have the whole kingdom in such a frenzy over papers that no doubt held nothing but Thors name.
She ran down the hallway, worried about being late now that that realization had finally hit and she started a sort of jog, rounding a corner and nearly slamming directly into another.
“Oh! By the norns, I am sorry your highnesses. I should not be running in a palace, it is rude.” She scolds herself, her freckled cheeks going a light pink.
“No apologies necessary, we run through the palace all the time, it is the only way to get around in manageable time.” Thor states with an easy smile, and Astrid laughed tensely, wanting to leave the situation immediately before the harsher brother spoke up and she lost her job.
Still, Loki only eyed her up and down and let out something between a scoff and a sigh before turning and continuing on his way.
Thor gives her a small wave, the swoonworthy smile still glued to his face and making her lose track of thoughts, but he finally turns away and follows his brother, bringing her senses back and sending her racing down the hall once more, her shoes pattering on the shimmering floor loudly as she goes.
——————————————–
“People of Asgard, we have gathered here today for the reading of the will of our beloved King Odin. In this will, we will learn where his assets have been placed and in turn, who the position on the thrown will be passed down to.” A royal official decrees from the balcony of the golden palace.
What seemed to be all of Asgard cheered, but the princes themselves looked less than disinterested. Loki was all but glaring down at the crowd below, staring down every last citizen, his eyes just grazing over a redheaded maid as he looked on, until his eyes reached the figure standing next to him. Thor, the figure in question, was too busy focusing on his hammer to see if it had been chipped or scratched on his way here to care what the man was saying, to which Loki rolled his eyes.
“At least pretend to pay attention brother. They may be your people soon afterall.” Loki hissed through gritted teeth, rolling his eyes again at the aloof nature of his brother.
“Lighten up Loki. It is not as though it would go to anyone else. We are both in the running, this is not a new idea.” Thor says back, leaning against the balcony, finally looking down to eye up the large crowd below.
The crowd consisted of every citizen of Asgard, but it was still an organized group. All the regular people were in the center of it all, guards in the back in case anything dire were to happen, and palace staff at the front so they could be closest to the entrance, quick access to get in and prepare for the nights festivities to come.
Thor’s wandering eyes landed quickly on the same redhead as Loki’s, a small grin growing at the sight of her disinterest matching his own. In a way he felt they were sort of kindred spirits, both seeing this as a boring formality. Either that, or she just didn’t care. Whichever the answer was, Thor found her bored sigh and relaxed posture amusing to say the least.
He quickly moved his gaze from her, noticing other members of the audience for their own specific traits. Thor wasn’t the sly or mischievous brother, but he and Loki did share their keen eyes to detail, something they’d both gotten from Frigga.
Down on the ground, Astrid let out another loud sigh, waiting for it to be over. It wasn’t really that she didn’t want to see who got everything, but with the weight of the ball that came after relying heavily on the maids, she just wanted to go inside and get to work so they could all rest earlier rather than later.
The palace staff was never overworked perse, but in times of glamorous parties, they were the most imperative part of the planning in order for it to go seamlessly. Astrid took pride in the work she did, and she knew plenty other maids who could say the same.
“Enjoy the moment Astrid! It is not every day we see who the next ruler of Asgard will be! soak it in!!” Another young maid named Signe said with a giggle.
“I know I know. I just wish it was closer to the time of the ball so we could have more time to get everything ready.” She groans back, leaning against one of the many fountains surrounding the courtyard.
Her friends collectively rolled their eyes.
“We have put together much more complicated parties than this one. The worst part is hanging the banners, and I am sure some of the guards will help with that.” Her roommate Liv chimes in, making them all, including Astrid, giggle.
Liv was the flirtiest of their bunch, and she had a knack for convincing the guards or butlers or stableboys or pretty much any man to do the harder parts for them. No one complained about it, given that the tasks usually required an annoying amount of time standing and holding things above your head for who knows how long while you waited for someone to grab it and hang it, a task no one would enjoy.
“They are supposed to protect us anyway, now they are just protecting us from overexertion too.” Liv always said with a shrug and a giggle.
Astrid watches up above at the tall balcony, shading her eyes from the bright and warm sun. She stares as if willing the man to continue his proclamation, still waiting for the opportunity to retreat back into the castle.
As if on cue, the papers are picked back up, and he continues on.
“I, King Odin, being of sound mind and body, decree that my worldly possessions, including all monetary and physical assets be distributed as follows” He starts, stopping to turn and give Loki a glare when he scoffs at the use of Midgardian languages and practices. Loki merely shrugs as though completely innocent in response.
The announcer clears his throat and continues on. “Should my wife Frigga predecease me, A quarter of my monetary assets must be given to my eldest son Thor Odinson. Another quarter goes to my younger son Loki Odinson. The remainder shall be distributed in ways to help Asgard flourish, as well as to the heir to the throne.” He reads, and the crowd goes completely silent, confused by the lack of a named heir.
“I leave my son Thor Odinson the armour left in the royal armory, the staff I have carried as king, the Midgardian artifacts, and the power over the royal guard. He shall make an excellent leader to them all.” He states, and Thor’s face drops at the lack of a throne in his list.
“To my son Loki Odinson, I leave my gold helmet, the library of the palace, the west wing of the palace, and the throne I have sat upon to make my decrees. May he find read much wisdom while he sits in a fine chair.” Loki laughs a testy, angry sort of laugh.
The audience remains speechless, staring up in a mix of confusion and fear. Not once had any of them thought anyone other than the princes would take reign over their kingdom. Now, it looked like neither of them would.
“Finally, I leave the crown, the throne, and leadership over Asgard, as well as the palace and power over its staff to Astrid Ivarsdottir.” The man finishes, clearly having not read the will in full before now, given the look of shock on his face and the way he brought the parchment that much closer to his face.
Astrids breath hitched and her hands gripped tightly around the edges of the fountains frame. Her knuckles were going white, she was going white. Everything around her was moving in a sort of slow motion, her ears ringing loudly.
“Who?!” Someone called out, and a chorus of others chimed in. Soon enough, the crowd was in hysterics, trying to find out who this girl was.
Meanwhile, the princes were just as anxious. Loki was livid, snarling at the man as though he’d been the one to be so cruel to the boys, and not their own father.
“How in the norns did this happen?!” He demanded, looking quite ready to strangle the poor guy.
“Loki murder is not the answer!” Thor said, pulling his brother away.
“Well then finding this girl and how she managed to convince our father to play such a cruel trick on his own sons is!” He growls back, analyzing the chaos below.
Then, he saw her. The redhead from before, the one who ran into them both in the hall, the one who caught their eyes. The girl was pale as a sheet, staring into nothing, breathing heavy. Loki knew instantly the girl they were looking for was her. And he made sure Thor knew it too.
“Astrid? Astrid!” Liv whispered, not wanting more attention on them. She carefully splashes Astrids back with the cool water from the fountain behind her, earning a gasp in response.
“Thanks.” Astrid mumbles, slowly returning to herself.
But when she looks back up at Liv, she sees a guards finger pointed at her. And then she sees thousands of pairs of eyes. And all of them are on her.
Warnings: Might have a bit of mentions of violence, alludes to sexual content but doesn’t actually involve it
Tags: @peachybaes,@wolfish-trickster , @writinguntilmyheartgivesout and @nms224 (thank you guys for the support on White horse, and on Good 4 U, you have no idea how ecstatic they made me, my heart was very happy, I appreciate you, and all my other readers and I hope you enjoy the finale to this little series )
A/N: AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! I never thought I’d actually finish this part because I kept alternating between what I wanted to do with it but I am so happy with how it did turn out!! Honestly you don’t have to read the other parts to understand this one but I would recommend it. Anywayyyy, ENJOY!!!!!
You take a deep breath as you collect your thoughts, walking carefully through the doors to enter the golden Asgardian palace for the first time in forever.
Your eyes flit over to a flash of green and gold and you panic, turning the other way to run from that which you feared seeing again so much.
You hadn’t been home in ages, too taken with the cultures and ways of mortals on earth to want to come back. The only reason you’d returned was because your mother had begged for your presence at the annual royal celebration that had become tradition for you to attend. Other than that, you were completely uninterested in being back in this realm.
“As I live and breath… hello to you fair y/n.” The familiar teasing voice says calmly from the distance. You freeze in place, cursing him and his buttery smooth voice in your head as you turn, your grimace quickly replaced with a smile.
“Your highness.” You greet quietly, wanting nothing more than to leave this awkward interaction.
“I believe we’ve known each other long enough that you may call me my name y/n.” He challenges, his smile turning to the mischievous smirk.
“Of course… Loki.” You murmur through gritted teeth. He nods in approval tauntingly.
“We’ve missed you around here. Lady Sif and I have had to find different ways to entertain each other.” He says, his grin staying in place as your demeanor shifts a bit out of place.
If I wanted to know
Who you were hanging with
While I was gone, I would’ve asked you
“Of course. I’m sure you found your ways though. You always have.” You reply steadily, turning to step around him to find your way to your family. “If you’ll excuse me.” You mutter on your way around him.
You wait, expecting him to step in your way and block your path but to your surprise, the gesture doesn’t come.
“We will be seeing each other.” Loki hums from behind you. With that, a feeling of surprise longing and unease settles in your stomach as you make your way away from him.
——————————————————————
“My darling y/n, you look lovely.” Your mother cries as you watch yourself in the golden framed mirror.
She’s not wrong, you know it. You do in fact look amazing, shimmering in a dark y/f/c ensemble fit for royalty, decked out in an array of gold and silver detailing.
But the reflection in the mirror was almost unrecognizable. You know this was how you’d dressed and looked before you left, but this style, this lavish look was like it belonged to another person. You felt like you couldn’t possibly be the one looking back at you in the reflection.
“Thanks mom.” You murmur appreciatively, ignoring the pit of doubt in your throat.
Your mother leaves, hurrying off to ready herself for the festivities but you crash down onto your bed, staring up at the decorative ceiling. Not every household had paintings over their heads, but you were one of the luckier ones, with flowers and a meadow painted above where you slept, keeping you grounded and relaxed in your worst moments.
“You know my love, those flowers are just like you. Wild, beautiful and full of life.” You hear his voice in the back of your mind but not in the invasive way it normally was. No, this voice was sweet as honey, one from a distant memory. A smile came to your lips uncontrollably as you remembered the moments he’d traced symbols over your bare arms with his chilling fingers, wrapped up in the soft sheets together, having sent shivers up your spine every time.
If you were being honest with yourself, you’d longed for that familiar chill when he’d spoken with you in the halls.
It’s the kind of cold
Fogs up windshield glass
But I felt it when I passed you
“Come on y/n, we can’t be late.” Your mother calls and you quickly run down to her, wanting to escape your thoughts more than anything.
You fix your hair as you come to a slow down the end of the hall, quietly following the rest of your family towards the city square.
The Center of Asgard is buzzing with activity, kids running around the town square. You laughed a little as a little girl ran around your legs but a moment later a little boy chasing her catches you off guard. You move to jump out of the way but the heel of your shoe gets caught on a woman’s dress and you trip towards the ground.
A second later you’re gazing into the cloudy eyes of the crowned prince, his arms holding you upright easily.
“Are you alright?” He asks, a look of genuine concern on his face. Your y/e/c widen as you stare up at him, your mouth slightly ajar in shock.
“I-I’m fine thanks.” You mutter, pulling yourself out of your trance. He pulls you up with him as he stands straight, sticking his hands in his pockets awkwardly.
“Seeing as you are in fact fine, would you do me the honour of accompanying me in a dance?” He asks, a flicker of hope in his eye.
There’s an ache in you
Put there by the ache in me
“Sure.” You say after a hesitant pause as you brush nonexistent dust off your clothes.
A tentative smile plays on his lips as he pulls you into his arms for a dance, leading the way to the makeshift floor, the motion like a second nature to him.
“Even after all this time you still know how to dance so well.” You tease with a smile. He chuckles, the sound filling your ears happily.
Asgard may have been where you’d grown up but it felt like you’d outgrown it. Everything about Loki though, somehow, you could never be done with him. Not without lying to yourself anyway.
“So, you and lady Sif hm?” You ask with a smirk as he laughs a little harder.
“Goodness no. If she knew I had told you such lies she would have my head on a platter.” He admits, making you giggle yourself.
“Glad to hear.” You hum as he dips you towards the floor, meeting your eyes. You both stare for a moment, reminiscing.
But if it’s all the same to you
It’s the same to me
“It has been rather dull with you gone you know.” Loki teases, pulling you to your feet and twirling you around effortlessly.
“I always have been the life of the party.” You joke with a wide grin as he pulls you back into him.
“Or all others just simply cannot compare to you.” He shrugs with a knowing smirk as you try to hide your blush.
You spend the night twirling away in his arms, watching the festivities take place around you and slowly remembering why you hadn’t left Asgard sooner. The beauty of the kingdom at night, the lights like fine glitter against the gold of the palace nearby almost too much to bear.
Loki watches in amusement as you take everything in once again, smiling at the small sparkle in your eyes.
“You always had a way of making it seem as though you were only just seeing the city for the first time, no matter how many years you have spent here.” He notes, his lips pursed in concentration.
“Well to be fair, it’s like I’m seeing it through new eyes today.” You say with a grin.
You try to ignore the obvious frown on his face, not wanting to further ruin the mood.
“I see you have been enjoying your time on Midgard then.” He says, an undertone of bitterness evident in his voice.
You sigh, crossing your arms at the topic.
“Yes Loki, I’m enjoying my time doing what I wanted to do, now if you’ll excuse me.” You mumble, walking quickly away from him, narrowly missing his arm reaching out for you.
You head back inside while he stands there, letting out a groan of frustration at his own stupidity.
He gives up on his own common sense and chases you, grabbing your hand gently. “I am sorry. I should not… I do not know why I brought that up. I allowed my own pride to get ahead of me.” He admits, frowning at you apologetically. “Would you please forgive a dear old idiot prince?” He teases and you snicker, a smile cracking through your angry state.
So we could call it even
You could call me babe for the weekend
“I don’t know Loki, you really acted like a dick.” You sigh honestly, laughing again when he looks at you quizzically. “a jerk, an ass, a true idiot.” You elaborate, giggling. He nods, finally grasping your meaning.
“I know. I really did. But I have seen how you feel without me there. I just…. I am not ready to let go of you yet my love.” He murmurs softly, taking your hand in his carefully as though it might break. A familiar shiver runs up your hand and down your spine, the tingle of it sending a nostalgic twang to your heart.
“Please Loki don’t call me that. I can’t… It’s too much.” You plead quietly, your voice barely a whisper as the words escape your lips. He nods in silent understanding.
You stand in quiet peace, you not pulling your hand away from his own and tentatively leaning against the railing, leaving your hand with his for the comfort.
“Did you know that it’s actually a holiday on Midgard right now too? Well, not really a holiday but it’s what they also call the ‘Holiday season’. It’s beautiful there right now too, all decked out in lights and colours and sweets and different ornaments they hang from their trees. They have a lot of different holidays celebrated by all different people, that’s what the midgardians call themselves, and it’s really strange but at the same time it’s almost magical.” You explain, wanting to share your experiences with him to try and show him why you felt interest about Midgard.
“And which is your favourite?” He asks quietly, nuzzling up to you as he used to, wanting to hear your voice regardless of the fact that it was about the place he now so loathed.
“Well I like them all. And they have this stuff falling from the sky called snow, it’s like a white powder. Kids play in it and you have to shovel it in the morning to get to work, that I had to learn the harder way.” You ramble, laughing at the memory of your first snowfall not long ago. “It’s so different from Asgard, they’re so much less formal there. It’s really strange, talking in shortened terms, different technologies. It’s really fascinating Loki.” You finish and his faint smile is much bigger than it was, the sound of you happy and passionate about something making him overjoyed despite his resting bitterness.
“Is it as magical as this?” He asks, holding out his palm and creating a burst of mini fireworks in his hand.
“Loki I don’t mean literally magical. I mean more figuratively speaking. It’s their most romantic time of the year, that’s why they feel it’s magical.” You explain briefly, smiling with a blush at the sparks of colour in his hand. You go to push down his hand and as your body moves ever so slightly, you’re facing each other, truly eye to eye for the very first time in so long, the literal and figurative sparks flying around you.
Tis the damn season, write this down
I’m staying at my parents’ house
Loki takes careful action, reaching up and brushing his thumb over your bottom lip slowly, teasingly. He cups your face there, the thrill of feeling your skin on his skin sending a small rush of adrenaline through his cold veins as he pulls you in. You don’t protest, letting him lure you back as you’d once so feared but in the moment, couldn’t one bit imagine why.
He waits a moment for the protest that doesn’t come before leaning in and brushing his lips on yours, first gently but rushing into needy rather quickly. He kisses you passionately, his tongue soon slipping in your mouth when you grant it entry and pulling you along with him, hidden around the corner of the balcony safely while the two of you ‘properly’ re-greet each other.
“Stop… stop.” He says breathlessly, planting needy kisses along your face to cool down, only making you feel more wound up in the process.
“I must confess something before we continue.” He says, still in his daze of the moment. You nod, not sure what you can say, all thoughts sucked from your mind the moment your lips met.
“I told your mother to ask you to come back for the celebration. I chose the outfit you are wearing right now and by the norns, I am glad I did because you are truly a vision but the point is, I deceived you to get you back here.” He says, the words flooding out of his mouth.
You let out a small snort, falling into a small fit of laughter. He looks completely bewildered, shocked by your reaction.
“Loki, you’re the god of mischief. I have loved you for far too long not to know this. Did you really think I wasn’t going to be the least bit suspicious when my mother asked, no, BEGGED me to come home for this day and made such a big deal out of it when she’s never really cared for it before?” You giggle as you go through your explanation.
“I knew this was your doing almost as soon as I received the invite. I was only slightly suspicious at first but then my mother visited me and begged me to come and I knew right away you had something to do with it.” You laugh and you get really confused as you see him grinning like a mad man. “what?”
“You said you love me.” He says, beaming with excitement. You blush scarlet in realization.
“I- no- that was not what I meant to say!” You stammer.
“Oh but it is what you said, I caught it. You still love me darling.” He smirks in a cocky manner and you sigh, not wanting to argue with him in such a nice moment.
“Yes alright… yes I love you. I have always and probably always will Loki.” You admit with a grin not nearly matching his own.
And the road not taken looks real good now
And it always leads to you in my hometown
“I love you too. Always have always will.” He promises, pressing another kiss on your forehead.
“I’ve missed you so much Loki. I tried to meet other people but… I really don’t know how to get over all we’ve had, even if I do like being on Midgard. Would you ever consider coming there with me?” You ask quietly, blinking up at him with eyes full of hope.
He stares back at you, taken aback by the question. Never once had he imagined such a question coming from you. Sure, he’d pondered the question himself many times but never from you, he imagined you would wish to lead a separate life from that which you’d shared.
“My beloved… I am not sure that idea is the best one… those residents of Midgard surely remember my… faults. I am sure that many loath my existence. I could never live there, with you, risking your life and safety to their wrath. I am certain harm would come to one of us and if it were you… I could not forgive myself.” He frowns, holding your face in his hands.
“You’re an infamous trickster, surely you can mask your true identity from them.” You frown, your eyes glazed with unshed tears, your lip starting to wobble, staring down at the city you used to run around with Loki in. The strong memories were intoxicating to you both and you knew that.
I parked my car, right between the Methodist
And the school that used to be ours
“My love please do not cry, I so hate it when you cry. I did not say I would not find a way to make us work. If it is truly what you want, We will find a way. I promise you. I only said that me living on Midgard is not the best plan.” He explains with a promising smile as your hopeful gaze returns.
Where all these hopes were coming from, you honestly didn’t know. You were in a bad place with your feelings for Loki for a long time. There were times you wanted to come back to Asgard to strangle him and others where you wanted to come back to hug him tight and never let go.
You were at peace with your feelings for him prior to the return. But now, you realized feelings so unresolved and so strong weren’t going away so easily. It was so strong you couldn’t in good conscience ignore him or ignore them. They needed to be revived or put to rest, but you were having a harder time than ever deciding which was the answer.
“I hate that you make me feel like this.” You sigh, leaning into him.
He chuckles, pulling you in closer. “I am well aware, and yet I love it just as I love you.” He teases, kissing your forehead gently.
The chill of his fingers soothes you in a way, making you feel more at home than you imagined before your return. It was odd, you had never thought being in his arms again would feel the same. You thought you had matured enough to feel no such feelings if he ever laid a finger on you again but his touch is somehow making you feel like nothing had changed and like the past few years were completely frozen in time.
The holidays linger like bad perfume,
You can run but only so far
“This does not mean I wish to remain in Asgard Loki. I love you more than life itself but I stand by all that I’ve said thus far. I am your equal, not your lesser and you have to treat me like it and let me make my own decisions.” You warn, looking back at him, your posture slightly stronger and the confidence in your voice unwavering.
“I understand my love. And though I do not at all agree with your home of choice, I shall not interfere with your wishes again. I have learned what it is like to live in spite of you and I never wish to live in such a way again. I cannot bear to lose you over my own stupidity again Darling.” Loki vows, squeezing your hands in a sort of promise.
A year ago, you would have never believed the words coming from his mouth. You likely would have ran before he could speak even a sentence of all that he had said at this point.
But you had definitely grown and you could tell Loki had too. His full blown anger seemed to have dissipated over time and you could hardly judge him if it hadn’t, having had a few meltdowns on the subject yourself over your time apart.
The anger was no longer fresh, more like a plant, growing and growing until it slowly died and shriveled away.
Of course, you knew that this might be the worst idea either of you had ever had. Of course you knew it was risky and trivial. But you didn’t care as much. The change you saw in Loki now from the Loki you’d seen all that time ago was intense and it was all you’d hoped for.
“You know, you WILL have to come and stay at my place at least sometimes…” You teased, making him let out a dramatic sigh.
“Or you could come here and I could avoid all those Midgardians who absolutely loathe me…” He offers and you shake your head slowly, laughing as he pouts.
“It’s called compromise darling, you have to learn it eventually.” You tell him, sticking your tongue out as he groans even louder.
The two of you remain giggling on the balcony for a large majority of the festivities, pointing out places on Asgard you hadn’t been in forever. Neither of you were certain of what the future may hold for your relationship and neither of you spoke about it, deciding that the love you shared in that moment was enough to last you a long while. At least for the celebration, you had no worries except each other.
I escaped it too, remember how you watched me leave
Summary: Wanda hits you hard in the heartstrings with her new reality
Pairing: there isn’t exactly one??? I guess platonic!wanda x reader, platonic!monica x reader, a little Pietro x reader
Warnings: Mentions of death, reader gets restrained at one point, kinda sad lol
AN: just letting you guys know that I’m POTENTIALLY changing the layout of my intro to stories a little, as you can see NO MORE BANNER!! it was just getting to be a big hassle switching devices and with storage so I’m changing it up a bit but let me know if you do prefer it the old way or have suggestions to make it better!!!! I love you guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
“Everybody, shut up! Darcy, what’s happening?!” You demand, leaning over her shoulder towards the monitor.
“I’m not sure. She seems almost confused? That shouldn’t happen for the writer of the show should it?” She asks, staring down the screen just as much as you.
You watch carefully as Wanda opens the door, shaking your head slowly to answer the question. “I don’t understand, why doesn’t Wanda know what’s going on?!” You ask, eyebrows furrowing in confusion.
“I don’t know! She should know what’s happening in her own show, shouldn’t she?” Darcy sighs, staring down the screen.
But then, the head of silver hair is clear across the screen. Your breath hitches in your throat and your eyes widen.
“She didn’t- she couldn’t have gone back for his body- not after so long.” You say, tears filling your eyes.
“Who?” Darcy asks, looking slightly confused.
Before you can answer, a face is put to the hair. You feel your fists clench in anger.
“Holy shit! She recast Pietro!” Darcy exclaims, trying to zoom in on the face.
You take a couple deep breaths, trying to keep your cool but watching her embrace him as though he really is Pietro, YOUR Pietro is too much. You let out a small cry and turn away from the screen, your powers starting to take control.
You notice your hands glowing the familiar violet shade and you make your way out of the lab as quick as possible, shoving past everyone and racing outside. You let yourself collapse into the grass of the surveillance field, tears running down your cheeks. As soon as your hands touch the ground, a blast of energy goes with them, shattering several vehicle windows and probably some lab equipment and nearly knocking over several of the army level vehicles in the near vicinity.
“Y/l/n, calm yourself down. You can’t help anyone if you don’t control your emotions.” A male voice calls out.
“Leave me alone Hayward.” You breath, eyes still closed, your voice a tone of warning.
“I’m not gonna do that y/n, you’re a member of this team and we need you capable of working.” He says, inching closer.
“I don’t care! Leave Wanda to do as she pleases with her husband and their kids for all I care! But she does NOT get to forget the real Pietro. She does NOT get to act like recasting him like some character is bringing him back!” You cry, glaring over at him from the ground.
“She’s holding a town of at least 3000 people hostage in there y/l/n, we have bigger problems than just her brother.” He sighs, moving even closer.
“That is NOT her brother! That is a look alike, he is not Pietro and never will be!” You scream, a blast of your powers taking over again. Hayward is knocked easily to the ground and so are several stations of the base.
Suddenly you feel a prick in your arm. You look down and see a small dart there, implanted in your skin. As you go to rip it out, you fall over and everything goes black.
———————————————————————
“Let me go!” You scream, yanking on the restraints against your arms. Hayward sighs, running a hand through his hair tiredly.
“You could’ve killed me and everyone on this base with that blast of power y/l/n. This is for everyone’s safety, including your own.” He explains but you merely glare in response.
“Director Hayward, you’re needed in the lab.” Some woman says as she enters the room. He nods and steps out, ignoring your cries of protest.
“Y/l/n please calm down.” A soft voice says as they enter the room. You look over to see Monica standing there, cautiously entering.
“Captain Rambeau, I’m restrained for a reason. I can’t hurt anyone with these on. You can come in.” You mutter dryly.
“Thank you.” She says, coming to sit next to you. You blink at her, not wanting to be the first to speak.
“What was the freak out over there all about?” She finally asks. You sigh, looking away and letting a curtain of your y/h/c hair cover the side of your face to shield from her piercing gaze.
“I was an Avenger, I’m not sure if you knew that.” You start and Monica nods to show she did. “Well, when ultron came along I was around the same age as the twins, about 17 or so. Still a kid. The rest of the team didn’t want me there, they didn’t want me getting hurt or killed or something. But I insisted on going. Fury allowed it because I’m useful in some situations, as I’m sure you can tell by now.” You continue, glancing down at your hands for emphasis.
“My powers are from the same experimentation as the twins but mine were forced on me. They knew I was like a kid to some of the avengers and HYDRA took advantage of that. They kidnapped me while I was on my way home from school and they experimented on me, tortured me and changed me over the course of a year or two. That’s why I was on that mission. To get rid of them for what they’ve done.” You explain, biting your lip at the memories.
“Wanda stuck with Ultrons plan and with him for the most part. But when Pietro found out about me he got really curious. He came to our base looking for me. He didn’t care what everyone else on the team thought, he said he just felt like he had to know me. And he got to know me too. I told him how my powers are a more train wreck like version of Wandas because I wasn’t in the experimentation willingly, how sometimes I get bits of his powers in moments of anger. It’s odd but it’s true. He was fascinated. He flirted, I tried to a little bit.” You say, smiling softly at the thought of his smirk.
“And we really quickly fell in love. It was essentially like love at first sight. He called me his princessa and he would tell me things would be ok when he sensed I was scared. It got a little hard while they were still teamed up with Ultron but when his sister finally came around, he was glad to be able to be us more often. Wanda of course didn’t really approve, she thought he was being seduced for the sole purpose of getting him on our side. But we didn’t care. We still cuddled together and held hands and spent every moment together, even if she was around. It was almost like there was no one else in the world but us.” You giggle quietly, the image of him speeding around you to make you dizzy just so he could hold you still etched clearly in your mind.
“Then, when Ultron took Nat, it turned to chaos. Everyone was trying to find her, to find him, to find out his plan. We got separated, so did he and Wanda. They’d always taken care of each other so I know it was difficult for him. But then in the chaos, he had to be a hero. He went back to help save that kid. And he was killed because of it.” You sigh, staring down at your hands as a small flicker of purple flashes on your finger tips.
“Oh y/n… I had no idea.” Monica says remorsefully. You shrug it off, trying to play it cool.
“It’s fine. No one did really. It was just between us and the other Avengers. It wasn’t a publicity thing, it was a love thing.” You sigh, smiling sadly in her direction.
“But that’s why I freaked out. She replaced Pietro, the love of my life and her brother, with a look alike and acted like it was no big deal. That hurts me, Monica. It burns right in my heart.” You explain. She nods, obviously understanding what you mean.
She looks around and grabs something from the drawer of the nightstand across the room.
“What’re you-.” You start but she shushes you, coming over and using the key in her hand to undo the restraints.
“Monica that’s a bad idea. I’m not in my right mind-.” You start again but she shakes her head.
“You’re grieving. And it’s not like you have a town of 3000 people at your disposal. You just need to keep taking deep breaths.” She explains.
“You’re right. Thank you.” You say, quickly wrapping your arms around her in a hug.
“Did you guys have any luck identifying the phoney Pietro yet?” You ask as you stand up, wanting nothing more than to slap the red headed witch. You knew this was how she was coping but it was getting way too far.
“No. It’s like he doesn’t exist in the real world. Wanda couldn’t have made him out of thin air though so it’s strange.” She sighs, looking puzzled.
“Everything about Wanda Maximoff is strange.” You grumble.
“She could probably say the same about you.” Monica laughs with a shrug.
You just shake your head, biting your lip again. “No, my powers have differences to hers. She can clearly morph and alter reality, I merely have a strong telekinesis ability because of it. Wanda… Wanda is something else.”
The two of you find Darcy and Jimmy in a group meeting where Hayward is going on a mini tangent. When he sees you, he starts to freak out.
“Do you know how dangerous it is to let her out?! She was in hysterics not even an hour ago!” He demands, storming over and grabbing you harshly by the wrist, trying to pull you back out into the hall.
“Director, I wouldn’t grab a person who was “just in hysterics” so harshly if I were you, it seems rather stupid.” You growl, yanking your hand away.
“Besides, I can keep myself in check if it means getting Wanda out safely. She’s created this world as a form of escapism, it’s just gotten too far. Believe me, Wanda killed Ultron because he wanted to destroy the human world. She isn’t a typically violent person. This is grief.” You explain, walking away from the speechless man and stopping at the computer screen, watching Wanda greet the imposter Pietro again.
“You are here as a tool in case she does get violent, you don’t have the clearance to engage with the research portion.” He shouts, clearly getting fed up with it.
“Fine. You don’t want me to look at what you’re actually trying to do? Then let me engage with Wanda. I can get through to her in a way you know you can’t. I want to go in, and you cannot stop me.” You challenge, standing again and storming out, walking in bold steps towards the Hex’s barrier.
Hayward chases after you, yelling orders and eventually profanities, Darcy is close behind him followed by Monica and Jimmy, all three of which are shouting their worries and warnings but you don’t stop. The rage in your body has taken the reigns and is walking you closer until you’re right at the edge, hand to the red screenlike wall, pushing forward against the pressure of the altered reality.
Without a second thought, you walk through into Wanda’s sitcom-like dream world.
