In which: your ex wife’s car breaks down, so you come to retrieve her and your daughter, but what you don’t know is someone is pining for a second chance
Getting the call from your ex-wife Natasha that her car broke down on the way to drop your child home had really stuck a wrench in your Sunday plans. If it was just Nat stranded, you would’ve contemplated going to help, but you didn’t think twice to come to your daughter’s rescue.
You didn’t have to drive far before you spotted Natasha’s car and she and your sweet daughter standing against it. You halted in front of them, rolling your windows down with a smile. Your daughter, Mary Jane jumped up in excitement.
“Mommy’s here! Mommy’s here!” She squealed, tapping on Natasha’s hand to get her attention, but Nat was already staring at you. You smiled.
“Get in the car you two, call Tony, Nat, I’m sure he’ll get that hunk of metal taken care of.” You teased. Natasha shot you a smirk that always made your knees buckle as she began to strap Mary Jane in.
“Oh so I’m ‘Nat’ now? Let me find out you’ve gone soft once again.” She said as she got in the passenger seat. You rolled your eyes, slapping her hand away when she tried to touch your thigh. “Ooh, burn.” She hissed.
“I should’ve gotten my kid and left you stranded. I’m sure your lovely Avengers would’ve given you a ride.” She scoffed.
“You always thought I put them over you. It’s ridiculous.” It was your turn to scoff. Her head was so far up her ass.
“You did. And that’s the reason—“ you cut yourself off, looking at Mary Jane looking at you quietly as if she was fearful of a fight breaking out. “How about we get ice cream?” You suggested, already making a u-turn. She perked up, clapping her hands together.
“Before dinner, mommy?” She asked confusedly once her excitement wore off. You shrugged.
“We’ll get it at the grocery store, so we can have it after dinner.” You could see Nat nodding.
“Such a problem solver. A hot one at that.” She muttered that second part under her breath, you could only scoff at her inappropriate comments.
“Gross, Nat.” You said but couldn’t stop a smirk.
You three rolled up to the grocery store in no time, both you and Nat held Mary Jane’s hand as you crossed the street. Nat placed her in the shopping cart, you couldn’t help but notice her arms flexing slightly. Things were calm until you hit the ice cream aisle.
“Ooh! I want vanilla! No strawberry! No chocolate!” You giggled at how indecisive your five year old was.
“Okay, one big flavor for us to share, Mary.” She pouted at only being able to pick one, then she turned to Natasha.
“Mama help me pwease.” She asked sweetly, looking up at Natasha with those puppy dog eyes of hers. Of course your ex folded and picked her up out of the buggy and put her eye to eye with each ice cream freezer.
“We could get popsicles or a tub of ice cream. Or how about we get a tub and we buy cones and sprinkles and have ice cream cones?” She suggested with an elated tone. Watching how good she was with Mary Jane made you want to— but you couldn’t. So you pushed those thoughts deep down and continued to watch them.
“Uhm,” Mary Jane trailed off before pointing at a tub of french vanilla, a flavor she loved dearly. “Dis one. And cones and sprinkles.” She decided. You smiled, watching Nat help her put the ice cream in the cart.
You guys bought your items then began to head back home. You put on Mary Jane’s favorite song and she sang it the whole way home. Once you pulled up to your home, Natasha got the groceries while you got your daughter out of the car.
As you picked Mary Jane up and held her in your arms, Natasha passed by you and said.
“We work well together.”
“It’s called coparenting, Nat.” You retorted, unlocking the door and letting Mary Jane walk in first.
“What’s for dinner?” She asked with childlike curiosity as she got comfortable on the couch.
“Spaghetti. You and mama get to the table, I’ll bring it to you.” You said, going into the kitchen and grabbing three ceramic plates out of the cabinet. You portioned everyone’s meal perfectly and served it alongside garlic bread and a glass of water. You had to work under pressure because Natasha convinced Mary Jane to start slamming her fork on the table repeatedly.
“Your mama is just a big baby, Mary Jane.” You sneered at Natasha as you handed your girls their plates. Once you sat down, you all began to eat— well— you and Mary Jane began to eat. Natasha was eyeing you like she was hungry for something else.
You cleared your throat, opening your mouth to ask, “So, Nat, how’s the work life?” Natasha swallowed before answering you.
“The same old, same old. I’m just getting through the week to see our sweet girl.” She mussled Mary Jane’s hair which made her giggle and squirm around in her seat. “What about you?” She asked, turning back to you.
You shrugged. “As good as it’ll get.” Natasha hummed.
“Are you getting the money I send?” Ah yes, the occasional thousand dollars she’d send every once in a while. You saw it as her way of trying to get you back at first, but after a while of it not working, she still sent it, so you accepted it happily.
“Yeah. It helps. Thanks.” The word slipped out before you could stop it, but you meant it.
After dinner and dessert, it was time for Mary Jane’s bath time. She was getting to that age where she wanted to be independent and do things by herself, so you let her take the reins. As you and Nat watched her clean herself up the best a five year old could, you decided to strike up a conversation with her.
“So what do you think was wrong with the car?” You asked her, nursing your glass of wine.
“Probably needed a jump.” Nat shrugged, you quirked a brow.
“I could’ve given you a damn jump, Nat. You wouldn’t have even been here.” She chuckled but nothing was funny.
“Yeah but then I wouldn’t have been here.” She repeated. You scoffed, realizing her little ploy.
“So you purposely didn’t mention a dead battery to what— get in my pants?” She rolled her eyes.
“I purposely lied because I wanted to feel like a family again. I wanted to feel like your wife again.” That stopped you dead in your tracks, the comeback you had ready died on your lips. Despite the wine, Natasha’s expression was sober and… honest?
The whole room was quiet, even Mary Jane had partially stopped playing with her toys. You ran a hand over your face like everything was overwhelming you. “Natasha, you can’t mean that—“ Natasha cut you off, her voice shaking but unwavering.
“I do! I do mean it. I had you. And I put you and her below other things and that was wrong. And every day I think about what would’ve happened if I didn’t skip dinner, or didn’t choose a mission over you.” A tear slipped down your cheek and onto the floor. You couldn’t believe her words.
“I realize that you understand your wrongs, but are you willing to right them? Because if I let you back in and you hurt me— you hurt us? Then I’ll never forgive you.” The tears were fully flowing by now, wine and deep conversations always did make you emotional.
Natasha looked down at the floor, tears glossing her eyes . “I know, I don’t even deserve a second chance. But if you could consider it, I’d— I’d do better. I would be a better wife.” She promised. You stayed quiet, only looking at her to determine if she was being genuine.
“I want you to leave the avengers. If you’re really serious.” You were surprised when Natasha didn’t hesitate, pulling out her phone. “Nat, I was joking.”
She looked up from her phone, her cheeks grew slightly pink as she realized you were just kidding. “Oh. I would’ve done it for you. For my family back.” A small smile graced your face, you sat your glass down before wrapping your arms around Natasha’s neck.
“We’re gonna have a long talk about this. And we’ll have to take things slow, okay?” You muttered into her neck. Natasha nodded against you, you could feel her wetting your shoulder with tears of her own.
“My mom’s are hugging!” Mary Jane cheered from the bathtub, you pulled back from Natasha to smile at her.
“How about we get you out of the bath, nosy? You’re pruning up.” You giggled, grabbing her Elsa and Anna towel. Natasha watched you and your little girl with love and a determination to do things the right way this time.
Summary: In psychological terms, journaling down your thoughts, emotions, or even a memory that you don't want to forget, is considered a good sign to release stress, and you can track your patterns, the way you write, your grammar, and even the strokes on how deeply you write. These are your untold stories. How would it be a coincidence if someone felt your struggle?
Pairing: Natasha Romanoff x Fem Reader
Word Counts: 6.3K
Reality hits you when you realize that college has never been easy, immediate deadlines, group projects that will never be considered as a group since you do all of the parts yet again, and not forgetting a lot of patience when socializing with your blockmates. College may be suck but everyone is in their own world now, they wouldn’t even care if you take a shower or you forgot to brush your teeth, unless when it’s scandalous that is where you watch out. Dozing out the lecture hall as usual until someone waved their hand on your face to get your attention.
“What is it now, Wanda?” you whispered and hopefully the professor didn’t hear you. The person you are beside you right now is Wanda Motherfucking Maximoff, you heard it, the geek from Psychology who is now in your class in Philosophy. College will become a breeze if you have a friend that you could always rely on like Wanda.
“Did you hear what our professor says?” she asked you, as if you were even listening to the lecture. You can’t even listen for more than 3 minutes and you are already dozing off but that depends on how you handle your attention span. You turned off your airpods and put it in your case, you scoff and fixed your stuff waiting for the dismissal.
“What the fuck are you doing?”
“Chill your ass there, Wands. The moment where she gets us out then I’m out.” you sling your bag on your shoulder as you fidget your hands the anticipation to go back to your dorm and stay up all night.
“You’re literally helpless, this is why you became an irregular.” Wanda pointed out your issue in the school system, apparently one professor got up to his nerve and decided to fail you because you were mistaken that your work was “too good” that could be considered as AI.
“Don’t remind me of that shit, he doesn’t even know that there’s this thing called a brain?” everytime people whisper through the halls whenever they see you, it always triggers anger at the time you snap back to reality you already did the damage.
“Hey, that’s why I’m here to actually help you pass this subject.” A slight touch of Wanda’s hand to your shoulder you could feel that this is not sympathy but rather pitiness. You harshly moved your shoulder that created a loud screech through the lecture hall.
“What’s the meaning of this!?” you stood up frozen in shock, you have never been so angry especially not to Wanda, she’s been your safe space whenever life gets hard on you. When the professor walked up to where you stand, she looked at Wanda for an explanation but she quickly shut her down.
“Class dismissed except for you two.” she pointed out the both of you and went back to her table. While students hurriedly walked out the door, some were eager to get the gossip in the incident. Once all students were gone, the both of you were called in front to have a chat. As usual Wanda would do the talking to explain your side like she always does.
“Professor Vostokoff there’s been a little conflict. But I would likely to take the blame because I didn’t ask for her-”
“I appreciate how you take your friend’s responsibility here Miss Maximoff, but this isn’t about you.” The professor shifted her attention to you. If it was another student who made eye contact with her, they would feel fear especially if they are chasing after the valedictorian for the whole school year. But to you, it doesn’t matter anymore.
“I’ve noticed how relaxed you may seem today. However, this is not about your little incident disruption after my lecture.” She went back to get her grade sheets and you had it coming.
“Can we please get straight to the point?” you just couldn’t wait anymore.
“Seriously!? Can’t you just wait for a while.” Wanda clearly showed her irritation that you could only pull it off without experiencing being a punching bag. When the professor can explain her concerns they were mostly about the failing grade and the possible reduction chances to graduate this Senior Year and also a disqualification of her scholarship.
“I’ve seen all of your previous records.” your professor laid it in front of you and there are your records in your freshman year, but the moment sophomore year everything changes. From excelling with excellence, to manageable passing, into barely passing and eventually into failing if it continues.
“Miss Maximoff, could you spare us a minute?” Wanda didn’t hesitate and quickly left the hall as you are now left alone with your previous records lingered into your mind like a haunted memory.
“If you wanna fail me to your class, I don’t fucking care anymore, drop me out then fucking drop me out of here”
“As your professor who still believes in the capability of her students, I can see potential and I never miscalculate ever.” you gathered your records and stacked them.
“Look, I don’t even want to pass nor even care about my education. I’ve been planning to drop out but the school wouldn’t let their precious reputation be ruined by some mentally ill students with anger issues.” You finally got out what you wanna say for a while, you felt a sigh of relief when that came out but also at the same time, it doesn’t feel enough.
“I’ll let you decide on this one, I can make it up to pass this class if you do this extra credit for you” You felt a little curious about it but it is not enough to get your interest.
“That felt like too good to be true, what’s the catch?” you started to provoke her.
“You get to pass this subject if you still willingly want to graduate, if not then I can help you to convince the administrator to actually drop you out.” you wanted to believe her but it doesn’t settle in right for you. Your attention was on her now.
“You wouldn’t do that for me.”
“Try me, you don’t know what I am capable of.” you started to scale out your possibilities and how could benefit you. You suddenly had the urge to accept her deal but only on your capability until the deadline.
“What should I do for this extra credit?”
“Create your personal journal for the next two weeks, you should have at least 14 entries when writing.” Before she could elaborate more, you chuckled and treated this like a joke.
“Seriously? A journal? Okay are we going back to the time when Socrates was preaching his knowledge in Rome or whatever time he was in. I’m not in some shitty reflection community that has this open forum activity.” you act up as tough to show that you are not afraid of anyone not even to her.
“Are you done now?” she rubbed the bridge of her nose and got straight to the point.
“A personal journal that is where you would write down anything you want to know. But you will not give that to me because it is yours. You will send an E-mail and that is where you do your work. You will create a descriptive essay about the people who you meet during the duration of your curriculum. I will wait for at least until the deadline, if I catch you cheating and let someone do your work, our deals are off and you will continue to be in my class.” After she told you that, she stumped you for good. When she allowed you to go, you gave her a scoff as you sling your bag to your shoulder and left the hall fuming to your anger.
As you walk through the hallway, you know that Wanda won’t be waiting for you, the both of you are on thin ice as of now, but keep in mind that she can come and go as she pleases. You walked your way back to your condo, your eyes caught on a particular bookstore, you remember that is where Wanda would buy her beloved books.
Without thinking much, you were now inside the store. It seems rude to go in and not purchase anything in the store, especially the owner here was an old man who actually built this for his late wife. You went through the shelves and looked for a certain book that Wanda would love.
“As much as we are not on good terms, this should be considered a good apology gift” You grabbed a book that will surely get Wanda hooked to binge-reading it all night. You stacked up books and you didn’t notice that it was 8 different books that could get your geek friend busy reading them in your dorm. When you walked in to pay for your books, you saw in the display that the owner sells journal books as well.
“Might as well buy the extra credit for myself too.” You pointed out to the owner that you want a journal for your requirements.
“Rough day ain’t it?” The owner chuckled as he took his time to bag up your purchases.
“You could say about that right, sir. How much are all of them?” You asked while you fished out your wallet from your pocket, the purchase you have hasn’t exceeded 100 dollars but you gave 200 dollars as the tip for him and do whatever he needs with the money. You got your things and before you walked out the bookstore you heard that the owner mumbled something that you could hear.
“Beware of the journal, it can take you to the right person you seek.” You nodded awkwardly as you continued on your way to your condo.
As usual, nobody was waiting on you when you came home from school. You start your neverending routine, clean the room, get your laundry out, watch TV, get some nap, make dinner, and all repeat as your necessities. In your bedroom right after you finished brushing your teeth and changing to your nightwear, you checked on the journal that you just bought. Skimming through the pages were all empty and the journal itself seems to be thin which means she could finish this journal faster the better. Since tomorrow is the weekend, you have all the time that you need to write down whatever you want.
Sleep has been the problem since you’ve experienced countless insomnia in your life. You tried everything and even medicine is not working this time around. You don’t know what’s gotten into you, but you started to look for a pen and open your bedside lamp, the journal you just bought was only a few meters away from your bed. You lazily got up and started to write down whatever you want.
You thought that you could only at least write down at least one or two sentences, but there’s this urge that there’s more than you want to let out. When realization hits, you were half way to your writing, you already had enough and stopped writing, you tore the pages you just wrote and threw it in the bin.
“This is bullshit, I can sleep through the night.” You closed the journal and threw it somewhere in your room, before you closed your eyes it replayed the deal that you just had with your professor. The desire you wanna get out of school and finally maybe… your parents will notice you just this once.
The silent treatment between you and Wanda continues, whenever the both of you had a conflict, the silent treatment only leads until a few hours until the both of you are on good terms again, but this one is different. You noticed that in every situation, Wanda always takes initiative to apologize while you wouldn’t care at all but now you felt awful.
“This is much worse than being in a relationship.” You muttered as you stared at the books that you bought just for her then your eyes caught on the journal you threw on the floor. Since you got nothing to do this Saturday afternoon you got a pen and flipped the pages of the journal but there’s something peculiar in the journal there was a page where you are so sure it isn’t your handwriting.
“What the actual fuck? I swear I’m not tripping.” You checked the page of that part and you are sure that the moment you bought the journal it was blank and brand new. Since you’re curiouser than a monkey’s children's book you swear you read the first sentence of the journal.
Entry #1: RUSSIAN BALLET SUCKS!
Last night Madame made me clean the dance hall and for God’s sake I just finished perfecting her routine and this is the treatment I got!? My mother suggested me to create this journal and all I could say is that FUCK THIS JOURNAL!? But I guess it is not worth to try and speak out what you can tell when no one has the guts to even understand you. I’ll just keep this as long as I can.
God how I wish to become something my family doesn’t expect me to be, ballet is just a hobby not an actual pursuit dream that I wanna do. I want to join the army where they can not see me as a weak redhead woman that they know of. I guess that’s all I could say or write about my day, I’ll be preparing some questions that could make me continue this stupid journal.
Question in my mind
What wish do you want to come true? (P.S Very childish of me but fuck it then.)
You don’t know what’s gotten into you but your mind started to create words that you want to write it all down. The pen in your hand scribbled through the pages and without realizing you’re journaling to a piece of papers.
Entry #2 Wish?
That’s ridiculous, why would I believe in some fairytales that could put children to sleep. Wishes are fucking making you to believe the lies. I state my judgement that this is useless, I don’t even like writing down my feelings or even being verbal to anyone, I would rather keep it to myself. But this is a requirement from my prof in philosophy which I started to drop out this subject and probably drop out of college if I could but nope I am still stuck here.
Well it is not hard to actually say your desires and maybe it is better to be an untold desire. I wanna know how to forgive and apologize to a friend? Actually I couldn’t even tell if I even treat her as a friend but all this time, she’s been preferring to hang around with me than being the geek she is. Yesterday in the lecture I got my anger the best of me, I saw how her eyes were glossy. Maybe she was on the verge of crying but I didn't care about that at all, even when she explained our conflict to our prof, she still considered my well-being.
She protected me and I don’t even have the guilt to actually consider her back, I went to this bookstore to buy a gift to apologize and that usually helps but she gave me the silent treatment and I am getting angsty. I fucking don’t know how to initiate and apologize, why would she be hanging around someone like me!?
I have no fucking clue on what to write anymore here, but I’ll just see what the question that this creepy journal could do.
Question in my mind
How to apologize to someone you consider as something benefits you?
When you let out everything in the journal, you could think that this journal is just a fever dream and it will be gone the next time you check in. You took your phone from the charging port and there you tried to see your contacts with Wanda but you don’t have the guts to even save her number. You continued your Saturday Afternoon by binge watching Bridgerton’s new season at this time. Until you had enough time to watch when you need to make dinner, you grabbed your coat and walked down to your condo to the nearby convenience store where you always buy your pre-heat dinner.
After you bought everything, the night sky started to snow and you looked up to the sky and it was like the city here hushed down. You always admire snow especially with them, but now this is another time you get to see snow alone. From a far distance you could hear Wanda’s laugh which caught you off guard. You saw that she was with her twin brother Pietro, you can tell that they were having fun buying stuff for the upcoming Christmas. Without drawing much attention to her, you walked your way back to your condo.
When you went into your place, you brushed off the snow on your coat and hair, you started to microwave your pre-heat dinner. While waiting, you stumbled upon Wanda’s instagram post, you actually don’t have an account but it was Wanda who created it for you and even made sure that you followed her.
“I’m a fucking idiot and a bitch to the one person who actually gets close to me.” When you heard the timer of your microwave, you started to lose your appetite. Instead of wasting your meal you placed it on the table and put a cover on top. You started to keep yourself busy with anything to distract yourself.
Without realizing, you stayed up again and it was already past midnight. You started to clear out your table and you left your dinner untouched. You just wasted your money but you wouldn’t care less for it. You grabbed the journal that found it on your study table, you checked if there was another mysterious page that it was not yours. When you flipped the last page you expected that it was nothing and someone couldn't come in here and started to read your journal. But to your surprise that entry wasn’t a fever dream at all.
Entry #3: Am I fucking tripping or this journal answered me?
I don’t know what’s going on here. When I came back from the bookstore where I bought this journal it was gone like it had never existed. I still had no clue when I heard him after I purchased the journal. Whatever the fuck is this I am hallucinating. This can’t be real, after I write down my thoughts and the next day the page that was once blank was now there, answering my questions. I shouldn’t buy this and should trust my instincts.
After you read the entry and then all becomes clear to you, you remembered the final words of the old man at the bookstore. You hurriedly grabbed your pen and wrote down your explanation.
Entry #4: Don’t go! Not just yet
I know this may sounds crazy but when you wake up my notes will be delivered to you in some supernatural recurrences that I don’t fucking know how it works, but from what I heard that the old man said that this journal can take you to the person who you seek. Well it's some sort of tinder or dating app that could help us get to know each other.
I can start with something simple and whatever you write here stays between us. I’m Y/N L/N, a college student, 25 years old and I live in New York City for a while now. I like sweets, playing video games, and lastly I am terrible when it comes to socializing.
That’s all you need to know from me for now, please don’t haunt my ass here in my condo!
The morning comes you actually fall asleep on the cold floor no wonder you will wake up with a sore back pain. You hurriedly went to look for the journal to see if something changed, when you flipped to the blank page where you placed your entry and there was an entry which you read.
Entry 5: You’re real?
You’re an odd stranger, you can’t practically write down your basic information about yourself, especially on myspace. Well it would’ve been rude if I didn't try to introduce myself. You can call me Nat. That’s it. You don’t owe anything unless you earn them.
You stopped reading for a second, why would she mention myspace, isn’t that in the early 2000s? You decide to ignore that for a while and what matters is that you got this stranger’s name or rather you know her as Nat for now. You slowly imagined what she could look like.
According to your entry that I somehow read, you're struggling with this friend? Or whatever you call her. You’re an actual jackass for ditching her like that. How rude of you to even use her as something that benefits you? I despise people like that who don’t value appreciation, if I somehow meet you in person, you better get your neck checked.
You somehow feel threatened but she can’t do that either way. You continued to read the remaining note of her entry.
Anyways, if the both of you refuse to initiate, maybe it is your turn to do so, like you said that your friend usually takes the lead whenever she talks with you. Woman up and don’t raise your fucking pride missy. My maternal parents would always say that it is everyone’s responsibility but it is within their action to do the right thing. I’m not here as your therapist but someone who knows it from experience. Nothing will happen between you two, you can start by giving her a call or creating a telegram or whatever you do, it’s baby steps so you shouldn’ t feel pressure at all, just show them that you actually cared for them, if they need things to cool off them respect their boundaries.
P.S: I would hit you in the head shortie.
After reading everything, you experienced mixed feelings, you actually felt relieved but also offended that she called you short, you started to follow her advice and you hope that you and Wanda cleared things up and this time you’re slowly learning on how to communicate better.
After a few days turned into half way of your two weeks of journaling, you learned more about her, and the both of you realized that you were in a different time scale where you are from the future where she could be born right now while on her side you weren’t even born, it was difficult to match Nat’s humor to yours but the both of you work it out and what about Wanda, if you may ask. She actually appreciated your efforts and it was a bumpy ride for the both of you. Whenever you two see each other in class, you two remain civilized but also your emotions are somehow improved for the better. What even matters is your moments writing to Nat. You learned a lot of things coming from her, then you learned that there are things you both have in common and that is their dream.
When the last bell rang, you walked out to the lecture hall quietly as Wanda followed beside you. You didn’t lash out that she should stay away from you, but you kept her company. She had this smirked on her face and slightly pushed her shoulder to yours.
“Something changed with you.” She stated, you shrugged your shoulders and ignored her.
“I don’t know what you are talking about Wands.”
“That’s something I only keep to myself.” You proudly said while Wanda rolled her eyes at you, she went to the opposite track where her twin brother waits for her. You decide to let her be and bid her to see you tomorrow. You went straight to your condo and as usual no one was waiting for you. You immediately went to your study table to see your journal, you saw Nat’s new entry for today which you read them out.
Entry #16: Wake up Shortie Midget Imbecile
I’m glad it ends well with your friend, Wanda was it? Anyways, I want you to be the first person to know that I finally quit ballet and my parents agreed, they didn’t get mad about it. Also I entered military training and hoping that I could become one of the highest ranking sergeants will look up upon me. You know I just realized that we already got a lot of entries here and have you ever wondered what if this journal ended? Actually nevermind that, I don’t wanna ruin your mood right now. Tell me about your decision if you still continue to study? I’m still confused that a smart person like you suddenly wants to drop out of nowhere.
You stopped reading for a second, when other people asked about the sudden drop out it became hard for you to try and explain your side, but this is Nat, all of your secrets, your rants, your immature attitude, she knows it all. When you think it’s finally time to let her know your reason. You started to do your entry.
Entry #18: Parents
The reason I want to drop out immediately is not because I am so rich and I wanna change schools or I don’t care that much but I just want to get my parents attention, it is pathetic I know but they are never around. Here in my condo, I live alone. They are always busy with work and I spend Christmas alone, not even Wanda knows this.
My first Christmas when I was alone was when they went abroad with my younger siblings because they’re sick and in need of medical attention. I used to be consistent with excellence with honors because if I work hard, there will be a chance they could come home with my siblings for me, but that never happened. I got so tired and fed up with their lies and that’s why during the Senior Year of College I just lost the energy to try.
Next week will be my last week to do this journal shit, but after this ends I wanna appreciate how you become part of this. So yeah I’m thankful for you. Maybe if the time comes I’ll look for you and who knows you could be anywhere, I’ll come and find you and let you see that I am not a midget like you think I am.
After the discussion about your reasoning with dropping out, Nat read them not to judge but to actually understand you. She replied that you could come back to college to continue the degree that will help you in working practical, but she implied that you should continue as a promise to yourself that your parents will be proud of her and she’s sure that they will regret how they neglected you.
The last week has passed, the papers in your journals have become thinner day by day and now it is your last entry and possibly you will never hear anything from her again. It is that night, two days before your Christmas break, you just finished creating your descriptive essay about your experience to a certain anonymous writer from another timeline. You grabbed the journal you had and wrote your final entry for her.
Entry #30: Not a final goodbye it is more like I’ll See You
Before our entry started it was you who asked the question about my wishes and I replied that it was only a fairytale that put children to sleep, but now I wanna revisit. My wish is that you better become what you want to be and I’ll keep your wish for me.
This is never a goodbye that I want, I’ll see you probably when I see you as an old grumpy granny. I’m still proving you wrong that I am not short. When you do see me you better surprise me with your grand entrance Miss Sergent.
Christmas comes to a blur, you always feel the Christmas blue every Christmas but this time you feel happy because Wanda’s family invited you for Christmas Eve and treat you not merely as a guest but rather as another family member. When you get home on Christmas Day morning, you decide to clean up your condo to have some space for New Year. When you started to clear out your trashes in your trash bin you noticed a crumpled paper that is too familiar for you, you hurriedly dived in to your trashes and uncrumple the paper and to your expectation it was your handwriting, not until you noticed that there’s something behind it. It was her last letter to you.
Hey shortie, I don’t know if this will reach to you, if it does I want to keep things short (like you:P) But all kidding aside, I have an extra paper that I didn’t notice it was torn off the page and I thought I would never had a chance to say everything I want but for now, I’m deployed at war in the next day and there will be time I’ll won’t be back but to say you this, I don’t regret writing to you.
If I do survive, hold on to this letter. It’s my birthday, I forgot to tell you that, I’m not sure how late it is in your timeline but when I do survive I will come and haunt your ass in your condo. When I come back you better not be in a relationship, can't you choose an idiot that will break your heart. I’m going now, I always kept your letters to me and they are in my special booklet that I always carry around with the nickname I gave to you. See you when the time comes.
With all, Nat.
Everything seems to fall apart because this is the gift that made you sentimental and now you will forever hold it on. Nat really changed you for the better. You will always be grateful to her.
After the New Year, everything seems to be back to normal. You and Wanda are heading your way to the bookstore where you bought the journal, you couldn’t be more excited and happy to give her your company which Wanda was weirded out for you. But she didn’t mind because all she wanted was the fresh new stocked release of books in that store. When you two went in, Wanda went to the shelves while you stayed at the counter looking for a certain journal that should be impossible to look for. You decide to give up for today but still be hopeful to wait for that certain someone that lingers to your memory.
You went to the reading area and went to look for some books to kill time while you waited for Wanda, not until you noticed a small booklet with a familiar title on the page cover. You didn’t waste time as you flipped through the pages, the paper was now turning yellow. Maybe it is because of how long it was written and the ink seems to be blending through the paper and you know that this is indeed your handwriting. Not until someone snatched it out of your reach did you react immediately.
“Hey! You can’t just take something when someone’s reading them?” you stood up and tried to reach out for the booklet. A redhead with her hair slicked back into a bun raised her hand to keep them out of your reach.
“And you know that reading something personal is a bit rude.” A husked russian accent slipped to her as you glared at this woman who you started to hate her guts. You stopped trying and this woman smirked like she won your bet but you are never a quitter, you hit her crotch as she felt the pain and hugged her crotch, you got the booklet in ease and looked down on the woman who is now on the floor grunting in pain. Then an unexpected encounter made your body sweat.
“Dorogaya, are you okay? Oh! Miss L/N” you wouldn’t expect to see your professor in philosophy is right here with this woman that you just practically murdered.
“Oh my God, I’m terribly sorry Professor, this woman took something from me and I was only looking at it but she practically shoved them away before I read some part of it.” you explained your side but your professor stopped you from explaining as she sighed and helped this red head up.
“I should apologize for my daughter’s impulsive action. She just came back from her work as the new Sergeant in her unit, she seems to have forgotten to bring that she left the booklet here. It was something precious for her and I'm not allowed to hold on to it.” You stared at them and you wouldn’t believe that they are related. You somehow feel like you are not in trouble after all you are slowly coming back to excel your classes again and your professors who are doubting you started to rely their trust in you.
“Well it seems like we are destined to meet Miss L/N, but I just wanna appreciate how you managed to prove yourself in this term, keep it up and who knows you could be enlisted in something greater. I should leave you two for now, I have to look for references for my thesis. You. better behave.” your professor averted her gaze to her daughter as she felt embarrassed but to you it was entertaining. When it is just the both of you, it became awkward as you are still holding the booklet you gave it back to her.
“It seems like this booklet held something precious for you.” The red head nodded and gladly accepted the booklet back.
“It is. These are the remaining letters of that person who I waited for so long to meet her.”
“Really? Do you think of her as something more than a penpal?” you asked and without hesitation in your voice. The red head smiled at you and finally you reverted your gaze to her features. She is breathtaking, especially her eyes which for you is the most distinct feature of hers.
“She is more than a penpal, if she is here I could prove that little midget that I am taller than her and maybe take her out some time to catch up. For your information, she already had me.” your eyes failed you as tears slowly formed in your eyes and it burned you a little, you hoped that she actually remembered you, but of course it is impossible and how long have she even waited. Then unexpectedly a hug engulfed you and it was her tall feature that hugged you, you were stunned but at the same time confused.
“You thought I forgot about you? It’s good to see you shortie.” and that’s the last straw where you are now sobbing silently in her chest, you actually found her and it took her years to finally get you.
“You are an idiot, Nat. You had me there.” You broke the hug and gently punched her chest as revenge for making you cry.
“Okay forgive me, that was a little mean of me but I know the whole time it was you, you told me to make an unforgettable first meet for the both of us. I did pretty well.” Oh you wanna smack her smirk off her face right now, but for now you wanna be in the moment.
“I’m glad that you became the Sergeant that you wished for.”
“Same for you. You didn’t break your promise that you want to continue your studies.”
“Of course, it’s still a baby step but as for my parents, I’m still processing it.” Your mood suddenly changed not until Nat did something impulsive.
“I know this may be a little too new for you or your friend seems to be waiting for you here, but I don’t want to see you sad right now. Will you allow me to take you for coffee or anything in general? If not, I still want to keep you close as I can and now you are actually my maternal parent's student then I can-” Nat started to ramble nonsense as you never guess that she get nervous and stumble a lot.
“Woah, slow down there Soldier. I am happy to come with you. I’ll just text Wanda that she can go home after her shopping spree here.” Nat seemed to be in ease as she held out her hand for you which you accepted. You felt her hands rough but it doesn’t matter for you because it is her. There’s this question you always wonder and finally got a chance to ask her.
“Can you tell what Nat stands for?”
“At first it was Natalia, but when I became part of the army they called me Natasha by accident and I kept that name until now. I’m now Natasha Romanoff.”
“Natasha Romanoff, I like that name. But you better watch out before I steal your last name soon.” you didn’t notice that you flirted with her, you thought it was only a harmless one but it had a great impact on her.
Two people who met in a penpal situation in a different timeline now finally meet for the first time.
“would you still write if you knew no one would ever read what you wrote?” bitch I read what I wrote????? how tf do you think I wrote that? with my eyes closed?
Request by @hersheyismyfav - Can u do CEO Wanda that she is a work alcoholic and her wife struggled to get her attention so basically more on fluff and u can add some smut if u want to
CEO Wanda Maximoff x F!R
A/N: Thanks for the request! Though I just noticed there's not a lot of fluff, SORRY!
If this meeting goes on any longer, Wanda will personally throw her brother from the window.
Being the CEO of a successful company is hard enough, but being one while you’re merging with Stark Industries is a special kind of nightmare reserved for the seventh circle of corporate hell.
The money’s pretty fucking good, though.
“Let’s continue this tomorrow” Wanda finally snaps, her twin brother frowning. She gives him a look, and he has no option but to agree.
As everyone’s leaving the conference room, Pietro approaches her with a smile that means he’s up to no good.
“Sorry, I forgot the missus keeps you on a tight leash”
“I haven’t been home for dinner in three weeks. So yeah, I think this finance projection can wait until tomorrow. Or better yet, next week”
“Tomorrow we have that interview with Forbes. We’re the cover story, remember?”
It was all so corny. From war torn Sokovia to business moguls. Everyone can be rich, follow the American dream and all that crap.
“Make sure Hill reviews the questions before the interview. And we approve before publication, confirm that as well” she says, gathering her things and walking towards the elevator.
“You know, I’m twelve minutes older” Pietro says, and Wanda laughs at that.
On the way home, she calls you twice, but you don’t pick up. That’s weird, considering at this time you’re already home. Unless something came up at work, but even then you’d text Wanda.
“Good evening, Miss Maximoff” the doorman greets.
“Ernest” she says with a smile, and just as she’s about to walk past him she stops. “Oh, you haven’t seen Y/N, have you?”
“She left a couple hours ago, all dolled up. Thought she had a date with you”
“Oh. No, I would remember. Maybe she had plans and I forgot” Wanda says with a confident smile, though she’s about to have a fit.
Did she forget about any kind of plans?
No, her assistant would remind her.
Still, she practically sprints to the elevator, hoping this is all a big mixup and you’re fast asleep on the couch.
“Detka” she calls for you, walking around the big penthouse, but there’s not even a note.
Wanda’s about to call the police when she hears the door open. You’re humming a tune as you walk inside, laughing at something you’re reading on your phone.
“I was worried about you” Wanda says and you jump, eyes widening.
“Jesus, how long have you been standing there?” you say, removing your jacket.
Wanda looks at your casual outfit, the black leather skirt and the red picot corset top making her lose her focus for a second.
“I called you. You weren’t picking up the phone” she crosses her arms and you walk past her, the smell of alcohol and cigarrettes clinging to your clothes.
“It was Alana's birthday. Just went out for a bit” you smile at her.
“Did you smoke?” she says before she can stop herself. Wanda doesn’t mean to start a fight, but she was worried and you walk in, back from a party, looking like that, smelling of sweat and alcohol and not bothered by your wife’s concern.
“Wanda” you warn her, knowing where this is going.
“A text would have been nice, that’s all I’m saying”
“Right back at you, darling”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
You look at her, and Wanda knows she fucked up.
Because that’s exactly what you want her to ask.
“We’ve had dinner together three times in the past two months. When we go out you’re on your phone eighty percent of the time. I could have my tits out and you’d be talking about equity with the board” you push her against the wall, smirking. Her eyes drift to your cleavage, but she’s not getting anything out of you. “So, forgive me for going out once to hang out with my friends, instead of sitting around waiting for you to remember you have a wife, Wanda”
“It’s been complicated…”
“Yeah, I heard it before. It’s complicated, you’re busy, this is a big step in your career. I’m happy for you. But I feel like an idiot waiting for you to come home every single day, Wanda” you roll your eyes, turning to walk away before she sees the tears.
Wanda calls for you once again, and you ignore her, walking up to the bathroom to draw a bath. You sit there, watching as the water fills the tub, wondering how things could get so messy between you two.
Her career had always been a big part of who she was. You respected that, admired it.
But you feel so alone, and you tried telling her that. It was always the same answer.
It’s complicated. It will be over soon. We’ll travel somewhere nice, where there’s no signal.
You’re not sure you believe Wanda’s empty promises anymore.
Still, washing away the day makes you relax, and you rest your head against the edge of the bathtub.
“Kotenok”
“Go to sleep, Wanda” you mumble, not even bothering to open your eyes, even as you hear the bathroom door opening.
“Detka, I’m so sorry. I was unfair to you. Please” she insists when you refuse to look at her.
“If all you wanted was a trophy wife you could have gone with that blonde bimbo from college”
“Detka” she chuckles and you turn to look at her, trying really hard to keep yourself from smiling. “I’m sorry”
“I’ve heard you say that so many times lately, Wands. Don’t tell me you’re sorry. Show me”
“You’re right. Of course. I love you” she kisses your temple, calling it a small victory when you don’t pull away.
Still, you’re not sure she’ll change now.
—
It’s not often that you’re proven wrong, but in this instance, you’re happy with it.
For the past week, Wanda’s been more or less on time for dinner, and whenever she’s stuck at work, at least you get an apologetic text from her to let you know.
Which is why you figured it’s fine to do your part, going to visit her at work for lunch. She could use a break, and no one, not even Pietro can talk her out of skipping a meal.
You, however, can sweet talk your way into anything when it comes to your wife.
“Hey, Yel” you answer the phone as you wait for the food, knowing Wanda’s usual order from the deli around the office.
“Hi, bebé. What you up to?”
“Nothing, just getting lunch for me and Wanda. You?”
“Going over the last details of my photoshoot. Are you sure you can’t come to Sorrento with me? I’m so nervous” she pleads.
“Yelena, they trusted you with the cover shoot and no one’s asked me to step in. You got this. Plus, it's our wedding anniversary so I’ll be busy” you explain, putting your phone between your ear and shoulder as you hand over your card to pay.
“Wanda can come too!”
“With the way things are at work, trust me, that’s a no” you sigh, even if a trip to Italy with Wanda is the one thing you’d love to have.
Yelena whines and objects, mentioning the myriad of things that could go wrong. But you come up with a solution for all of them.
In the end, she gives up and you hang up with a smile, knowing she’s not used to people saying no to her charming ways.
But there’s no way you’re missing your wedding anniversary. Now more than ever, you need this.
People in the hallway greet you and you strike up an easy conversation with most of the ones working on Wanda’s floor. Her assistant scrambles to her feet when she sees you, walking to take the food from your hands.
“Phoebe, I got it. Take a break. Is she working you to death too?”
“No! Yes. Kinda?” she grimaces.
“Well, like I said, I got it” you wink at her.
What you’re not expecting to see is Wanda in the middle of a very tense call, Pietro sitting at the chair in front of her huge mahogany desk.
“Oops, sorry” you say, sitting next to Pietro. He tries to peer into the bag and you swat his hand away. Before he can protest, Wanda glares at the both of you to keep quiet.
You had hoped she was free for a quick lunch break, but judging by her frown and the tone of the person on the other side of the line, this is going to be a long conversation.
“He said what?” Wanda says and Pietro stands up.
“My cue to go”
“I will kill you” Wanda whispers yells as he runs away, covering the phone with her hand.
All you do is look between them, amused. It can’t possibly be that bad.
Though your smile is wiped away by Wanda’s next words.
“No, we can go to dinner this Saturday. I’m completely free. Don’t worry, we’ll talk to the investors there. They’ll have a great time and we’ll pay for everything. Yes, I’ll be there, I don’t have anything important that day”
Wow.
You look at her, hoping she remembers it’s your wedding anniversary. But she’s massaging her temples, confirming the details and saying her assistant will make the reservation.
Well, you don’t recall a bunch of investors standing next to Wanda as she said her wedding vows.
Five more minutes go by, and you have accepted the fact that she doesn’t even remember that she does in fact have something very important on Saturday.
“I’m almost done” she promises, panick flickering in her eyes as you stand up.
“I have to pack”
“Pack? Where are you going?” there’s a hint of anxiousness in her tone that almost makes you think she still cares. For a moment, you consider reminding her of the date, give her the chance to correct her mistake instead of keeping the hurt to yourself.
But why is it on you to make her care about this marriage?
“Italy. I’m helping Yelena with a phoshoot”
“When do you leave? Yes, I’m still here” she says, torn between the conversation happening on the phone and your explanation.
“I don’t know. I’ll text you later” you say, and she’s about to protest, but then the person she’s talking to gets louder to get her attention and Wanda has no choice but to answer.
Thankfully, you don’t run into anyone as you walk back to the elevator. You furiously wipe away a couple of tears, feeling stupid and irrelevant.
“When do you leave?” is all you ask when Yelena picks up the phone.
“The shoot is in three days but I’m leaving tonight to prep…”
“Ok. I’m coming with you”
“Seriously? That’s amazing! Let me send you the airline details so you can…” she says, typing on her computer.
“No, we’re taking Wanda’s jet” you say and she’s silent for a moment.
“Alright. Cool. Text me the details?”
“Yeap”
Your wife doesn’t miss you, you’re sure she won’t miss her jet either.
—
Wanda looks at your last text, trying to figure out if you’re upset.
She was communicating better about her schedule, and trying to be home earlier than usual. It wasn’t a lot but it had to make up for something.
Still, you left for Italy without saying goodbye. Wanda came home to a note on the kitchen about leftovers and a reminder to water the plants.
And now, even with the time difference, you barely reply to her texts asking about your day.
The only time you replied was to send her a picture Yelena took of you, a cigarrette in your hand as you smiled at the camera.
Wanda knew you were waiting for her to say something about your smoking habits -and your promise of quitting for good-. It meant you wanted to pick a fight, because if she wanted to bring up broken promises, you’d have a list with all of Wanda’s crimes ready to go.
“Why do you look so desperate?” Pietro says as he walks into her office, flicking the spot between her eyebrows with his fingers.
“Why are you so stupid?” she groans, rubbing at her skin.
“Is everything ready for tomorrow?” he says, sitting in front of her.
“Yes, dinner at Knobu. 8 o’clock”
“I meant yours” he says, confused. He pulls out his phone to answer a text, half listening to Wanda.
“What do you mean? We’re having dinner with the investors”
“No, I’m having dinner with the investors. You’re having dinner with your wife. It’s your wedding anniversary”
Pietro only looks up after a few minutes of silence. His face falls when he catches up to everything.
“Please don’t tell me…”
“I forgot”
“Nice, sestra”
“She told me she was going to Italy for work, I..:”
Her mind looks for an explanation. The day you stopped by for lunch. How she scheduled the dinner right in front of you, saying she was completely free.
And then you stood up and left.
Fuck.
“Wanda” Pietro calls for her, knowing she’s spiralling. “Breathe”
“I’m a terrible partner” she says.
“Look, you can still fix it. Send her flowers, or something else. Something huge. She’ll understand. Or go find her. I’ll cover for you”
“Right” Wanda calls the hangar, her mind racing with everything she has to do. She’ll pack a bag, leave immediately to find you…
“What is it?” Pietro says when she hangs up the phone abruptly.
“She took the jet”
Her brother lets out a loud laugh at that. You never use any of the luxuries that Wanda insists are for your comfort and pleasure.
Taking the jet without so much as a warning means you don’t give a shit.
“You’re gonna have to get her a very big bouquet”
“Shut up”
—
It’s been a rough couple of days. You want to enjoy the lovely views, the food, the people. But all you can think about is Wanda.
You’re at a loss for what to do. You’ve communicated your needs and concerns, and Wanda listens, but then does nothing about it. Calling to say she’ll be late is below the bare minimum, to be honest.
Part of you wonders if maybe you’re drifting away because she’s moving forward. After all, her company has grown significantly. Wanda’s always busy, always learning.
You have a job as a creative director in one of the biggest publications in the world. As much as you love it, you know it can’t compare to being a powerful CEO.
Maybe Wanda wants someone who will challenge her, push her to be even greater. Maybe, she’s outgrowing the wife that wants to spend a quiet afternoon watching old movies.
You’re grateful for the photoshoot, the work taking your mind off of everything that’s been haunting you for the past few days.
“Wonderful” you look over Yelena’s shoulder, approving of the light. “What about an overhead shot so you can get the pattern of the dress”
“I love that” the blonde nods, setting up everything.
The subject for the cover is Kate Bishop, Olympic champion, archery prodigy and daughter of a very wealthy and controversial woman. Still, she’s very humble about it, and follows Yelena’s instructions to the tee.
While they continue, you take out your phone. You still haven’t answered Wanda’s last text. You have no idea what to say to her, because apparently she hasn’t even remembered your anniversary. The petty side of you thinks you’ll wait until the end of the day, to send her a “happy anniversary” message.
Let her crash out while you put your phone in do not disturb and drink the night away.
Once Yelena is happy with the work done, the team begins to pick up everything.
“I’m having lunch with Kate” she begins to tell you, clearly hesitating on the next part.
“Cool. Have fun” you wiggle your eyebrows, and she rolls her eyes.
Not like you missed the way both of them were looking at each other. But Yelena already knows why you decided to come and feels somehow responsible for lifting your spirits.
“You don’t want to join us?”
“No, and neither do you. Go, ask her out on a real date”
“Yeah, yeah”
Debating between lunch or a nap, you decide to go back to your room. But the stillness makes you regret your decision immediately, and you want to run away. You need noise, movement, tourists pushing you aside while they take their generic photographs of Sorrento.
Just as you open up the door to leave, your eyes meet green ones.
“Hi” Wanda says.
“Uh… what are you doing here?”
Your wife flinches and you regret your tone immediately. She flew across the world to see you and that’s how you greet her?
“I mean… sorry, I’m a little tired. Come on in” you step aside and she nods. Wanda’s eyes linger for a bit in the room, the two beds and Yelena’s mess on her side of the space.
“We couldn’t find a room for me so… we had to share” you explain, clearing your throat.
“I’m sorry” she says and you look at her, frowning. “For forgetting… I said it right in front of you, that I had nothing important that day. Detka, I am so, so sorry”
“I know you are. You say you’re sorry on the daily” you sigh, and Wanda nods. She knew she fucked up big time, so she’ll take all the shit you give her.
“I know I’ve been a terrible wife lately” she apologizes and you let out a sob that makes her shut up.
You hate crying, especially when you’re mad. Because you want to scream at her, not weep like some silly little girl.
“The thing is… I’m not even sure you want to be married to me anymore. Maybe you’ve outgrown me, or your priorities shifted. I don’t know, Wanda. I just know I feel so alone and like I don’t even know you, or us”
“Of course I want to be married to you. You are my whole reason to exist. Please, you have to believe me. I’ll do anything” she finally crosses the distance, craddling your face in her hands. “I’ll do anything to prove it to you. Please”
You let her hold you until your tears stop, and then you sigh, feeling like you ran a marathon.
“Sorry I took the jet”
“No, you’re not”
Wanda chuckles when you laugh, and you finally break apart.
“Do you have to go back?”
“No, not without you. I’ll stay here as long as you want to” she promises.
“Well, we could have dinner tonight then. For our anniversary” you nod and Wanda’s eager to agree.
“I’ll tell Phoebe to…”
“No. I pick the place. I don’t want something fancy and stuffed where people have to dress to the nines”
“Ok. Anything you want, kotenok”
“I’ll see you here at seven. Don’t be late”
“Yes, dear”
For now, you’ll choose to believe she’ll keep this small promise.
—
Wanda doesn’t know what to expect as she returns to your room. She bought some yellow flowers, your favorites. But when she knocks on the door, Yelena’s the one who opens it.
“Well, look who remembered she has a wife” she says.
“Yelena!” you scream from the bathroom. “Be nice”
Yelena glares at Wanda, but moves aside so she can walk in. Even if you’re the one who has taken the younger woman as your protégé at work, she’s also very loyal to you.
“Sorry, I took a very long nap after going to the beach” you greet Wanda, taking the flowers. “These are lovely. Thank you”
“I’ll put them in some water” Yelena offers with an angelic smile, that disappears the minute you turn around. Her frown comes back when her eyes meet Wanda’s.
“I’ll be back later. You still going out with Kate?” you ask Yelena and she shakes her head.
“Nope, I’ll be here, waiting for you. In case you need anything”
Wanda has to stop herself from snapping at Yelena. You’re her wife, she shouldn’t be acting like she’s not supposed to be around you. But then you’re taking Wanda’s hand in your own, because of course you can read her body language.
It’s a short walk to the restaurant, and you enjoy watching the lights of the city as you find your way to the terrace. You never drop Wanda’s hand, because in spite of everything you’ve been through, of course you have missed her touch.
However, once you step inside the restaurant, you’re practically yanked from her arms as a beautiful woman calls for you, pulling you in for a hug.
“Bella bellissima” she says against your temple and you laugh. The woman links her arms with yours and leads you to the table with the best view of the beach. As you sit down, you keep talking to her, Wanda barely catching a few of the words she can understand with her limited Italian.
“Ti porto un po' di vino, tesoro. Solo il meglio per te”
“Grazie, Bella”
“Why do you call her bella?” Wanda says, trying to keep her jealousy aside.
“Huh? Oh, that’s her name. The night we got here, Yelena and I got a little drunk… and we were saying her name means beautiful and she’s also very beautiful, hence… Bella bellissima” you try to laugh, squirming in your seat. Now you’re lucky that Wanda’s in the dog house for her screw up, or you’d be on your knees, begging for…
Well, not begging, because your mouth would be very busy doing other stuff.
“So how was the shoot?” she tries to change the subject, because it’s that or throwing the waitress over the terrace.
“Good. Yelena’s great, and Kate was such a great model. They seem to like each other a little too much” you smile, knowing what’s behind the looks they gave each other throughout the entire morning.
“Well, it’s not an unusual place to meet someone. A photoshoot” Wanda says and you laugh.
That’s how you two met, after all. It was during one of your first events, back when you were a junior editor. A luncheon, putting together the most brilliant minds in the world for a discussion, or a measurement of egos. And there was Wanda, easily catching everyone’s eyes. Effortlessly magnetic, it wasn’t long before you were sucked into her orbit. And when you asked for her number, she was happy that it was for dinner, and not some interview.
“Did you ever imagine we’d end up here?” you ask, thinking back to that day.
“Yes. I knew I wanted to be with you since we met” Wanda says, which makes you smile. “I just wish… I hadn’t taken you for granted”
“Wanda…” you say, feeling like this isn’t the place to discuss such difficult topics.
“No, please. Just let me tell you how much I love you. How sorry I am for being so caught up with work. All I ever want in life is you by my side. The rest is just noise. And I’ll never let it get this bad again. I swear on my life, detka” she takes your hand, looking defeated, and scared. Like she thinks she realised too late and she lost you already.
But that could never be the case.
Still, darling Bella chooses that moment to come back with wine and some appetizers. She only looks at you as she speaks, a huge grin on her face as she places a hand on the back of your chair.
“Ecco il vino e qualche antipasto, ti porto subito il resto, amore”
All you can do is nod and smile. Bella lingers for a second too long and you fear for her life.
A hand creeps up your thigh and you turn around, panic in your eyes as Wanda smirks at you.
“Wanda”
“I know enough Italian to understand she called you love” she says, inching closer. Your breath hitches. “If she so much as looks your way one more time, I will buy this damn restaurant and have her fired”
“It’s a family business. Her family” you clarify, as if that makes a difference at all. Wanda’s smile only widens, her other hand cupping your chin until you only look at her.
“I haven’t forgotten I belong to you” she says, her lips barely touching yours. “And you? You still remember who owns your pretty cunt?”
“Yes”
“Yes, what?”
“Yes, Daddy” you whisper, heat flooding your cheeks as she presses her lips against yours.
“Good girl”
Luckily, they seem to be short staffed, so Bella can only do so much staring. You won’t deny part of this mess is your fault, because you can be very flirty when you’re drunk. And Yelena wasn’t really interested in making you hold it back, because in her words, you deserved a break from everything.
The food is amazing, and conversation flows easily. To your surprise, Wanda leaves a huge tip, probably because she feels bad about the way she practically groped you in front of Bella as she was bringing dessert.
“Let’s go for a walk” you say, though it’s chilly and as usual, you forgot your coat. But Wanda simply shrugs her jacket off, and puts it around your shoulders, her hand keeping you close to her by the waist.
You only ask once about work, specifically about who’s covering for Wanda while she’s gone.
“Pietro can handle things. And if he can’t, maybe we shouldn’t be doing this at all. I need people who can manage. If I run everything on my own I’ll end up working myself to death"
You only nod, looking at the rising moon and the silhouette of Mount Vesuvius.
"You like to be in control. Not that it's bad in some situations" you say, blushing.
“I know, detka. But it’s not sustainable for anyone, either. What will happen when we start a family?” she says, almost too casual for your liking.
“Don’t say that. Unless you actually mean it” you walk up to the edge of the railing, arms crossed. You’ve both wanted a family, but it’s never the right time. With all that’s happened, you figured you’d have to push it another year or two.
“You don’t believe me”
“I just don’t want to get my hopes up, Wanda”
“This isn’t a one time thing. I promise I’ll be home more. I won’t forget another anniversary. Ever”
“Only one way to find out” you smile. “I don’t care if next year we’re in Italy or at home in our pajamas. I just want you with me, Wanda”
“I can’t wait,” Wanda says, taking you in her arms and kissing your shoulder as you both look out to the bay. You try to take your phone when you get a text, but she only pulls you closer against her front. “Is Yelena checking up on you?”
“No” you say, trying hard not to shiver at the way she whispers against your ear. “So, uh… do you have enough room for me? Apparently Kate stopped by and I am not to interrupt for the next two to three hours”
“Of course, moya lyubov'” she laughs against your temple.
“Thank you”
“Anything for you, amore” she adds in a teasing tone and you huff.
“You’re unbelievable”
---
It’s been a week of drinking Aperol Spritz, sunbathing and swimming in the coast of southern Italy. Right now, you’re on a yacht, laying on the deck as Wanda reads a book.
“I don’t want to go back” you sigh, knowing New York will be hot, humid and too crowded.
“Me neither” Wanda says, kissing the back of your hand, flinching when you turn to look at her. “What?”
“My wife, the ultimate workaholic, isn't eager to attend her back to back meetings?” you say.
“Back to back, you say?” she smiles, standing up and towering over you. “How about me on my back while you ride me?”
“Wanda” you shush her, looking around, hoping no one heard her.
“What? Now you’re shy? I’ve been fucking you all week and you have been very vocal about how much you enjoy it, kotenok” she sits next to you, smiling. Her hand creeps up your thigh, pushing past your sundress, until she reaches your center, teasing and you let out a strangled moan. But she stands up, walking towards the captain. “We’re going back to shore, now”
“Yes, Mrs. Maximoff” he says, immediately following her orders.
Wanda leans and kisses you, biting your bottom lip.
“Are you going to be a nice girl for Daddy?” she whispers hotly against your mouth. You nod, but she squeezes your throat and you moan again. “Words. Use them”
“Yes, I’ll be a good girl for you, Daddy”
You’re inclined to yell at the captain to go faster, because the ten minutes it takes to get back to the mainland are pure torture for you. Wanda, on the other hand, looks completely unbothered, going back to her book.
So unfair, how she messes with you and then goes back to her controlled self.
“You’re staring” she says, unable to keep herself from grinning.
“You're evil” you huff, and all you get as response is another laugh.
Some of the tension leaves your body when you’re finally able to step out into the dock.
“Slow down. Why are you in such a hurry?” she laughs and if you weren’t so fucking horny, you’d push her into the water.
Still, she quits teasing as you walk back to the villa, already thinking of all the things she’ll do to you the minute you’re back in your room.
Unfortunately, for you, someone calls your name. A woman, sounding very excited to see you.
“Carina, come stai?”
“Vittoria, hi!” you say, being pulled into a very tight hug. “It’s been such a long time…”
“Yes, how could I forget? I was barely dressed. Thank God you were there to put on sunscreen” she laughs, but you’re sure those words will be your downfall.
“We were… shooting for Dolce & Gabbana. Remember? That ad in Capri” you explain to Wanda, and she just nods, but you can see the annoyance in her eyes. “Vittoria, this is my wife…”
“Of course, you’re the famous Wanda. Y/N here won’t stop talking about you”
“I’m glad” Wanda says, pulling you against her. “I’m terribly sorry, but I think I drank a little too much limoncello, so we’ll be heading back”
“It was nice seeing you” the model says and you smile, though it doesn’t reach your eyes.
For the rest of the short walk, you’re both silent. And then, the door to the room opens and Wanda pushes you against it.
“How do I say Get your hands off my wife in Italian?” she practically growls, ripping your panties and plunging two fingers inside.
“Fuck”
“What was that?”
“Daddy, please. I’m sorry” you moan, trying to move so her fingers go deeper. But instead of fucking you, Wanda takes her fingers out and offers them to you. Without complaint, you open your mouth, sucking your arousal eagerly. “Show me how sorry you are”
Wanda takes a fistful of your hair, and pushes you until you’re on your knees. Your mouth opens and she moves her thong to the side, fucking your face while you grab her hips to keep her in place.
“If you’re such a good girl, why do you whore yourself out so much, huh?” she pulls you roughly, until your nose nudges her clit and she moans. “Seems like all those sluts want you on your knees”
You try to say something, but all you manage is a whine, feeling your own arousal leak down your thighs.
“Who owns your mouth? Your cunt?”
“You” you say, though it’s barely understandable, as you're busy eating Wanda’s pussy like a woman starved.
“Fucking right, you’re mine” she says, humping your face until she comes with a cry. You let her ride out her orgasm, noticing she’s struggling to keep upright. Slowly, you stand up, taking her in your arms and kissing her softly. Wanda moans at the taste of herself in your lips, allowing you to practically carry her back to bed.
Kissing her shoulder, you wait until her breathing evens out and she looks up at you, smiling.
“I really hate that you work with so many models”
“They got nothing on you, baby”
“Yeah?”
“Promise” you kiss her hand, smiling. “Plus, they don’t even know who Mary Tyler Moore is”
“Oh, had I known that was what made me stand out…” she rolls her eyes.
“Well, yeah. That and your ass”
“Please, stop talking. You’re not helping your case” she swats your hand away and you laugh.
“How about you make me?” you challenge her, and she gives you a shit eating grin, pushing you on your back and straddling your lap. You let out a moan when you feel her slickness against your own cunt.
“Careful what you wish for, amore”
And sure enough, by the end of the day, your voice is gone from all the moaning and screaming.
Summary: Struggling with rejection and content with side roles, an aspiring actress begins to doubt her place in the spotlight. But with her manager’s tough love and a stranger’s unexpected encouragement, she’s faced with a choice: stay in the background—or take a leap and claim the lead role meant for her.
TW: None
A month has passed, and you haven’t received any callbacks from your audition. Your role was more on the side characters that have minimal screen time. While making your breakfast, your doorbell rang as you checked through the peephole. It was Mia, you opened the door for her as she greeted you.
“Took me a while to get here, don’t you know how many e-mails of audition drowned me?” You chuckled and didn't wait for her any longer. She proceeded to come into your apartment, as she was stunned by how messy your living room was.
“When are you gonna start cleaning your shits?”
“You took me by surprise, and I haven’t had time to clean it.” You shrugged your shoulders as you finally got your first bite of your soggy cereal breakfast. You sat down on your couch while Mia stood opposite you.
“Clean? More like you stuffed them all in one closet, and once I open your shits, I will be devoured by it.” You rolled your eyes as you threw a pillow at her way which she dodged to your dismay.
“I am not like that. I can clean it later, and it will be spotless.” You pouted and defended yourself.
“Yeah, right.” Mia raised an eyebrow, not believing your words. She sighed and placed her tablet where you noticed a big red highlight in the word REJECTED. Your mood shifted to disappointment, but you reminded yourself that there will be more opportunities. Mia noticed how quiet you were as she sat down beside you and showed how the directors critiqued your acting.
Her face doesn't fit our ideal side character
She’s expressive, but our character is mean
Great acting, but not what we are looking forward to.
You stopped reading the first three critiques about you, and you lost your appetite to finish your breakfast. Your motivation drained after reading their opinions about you, while Mia, who hadn't given up on you.
“Don’t let yourself down, they said you are good at your audition.” Mia comforted her as best as she could, but that wasn't enough for you to feel better.
“I appreciate how much you put into the effort, Mia. I did everything I could, and I’m not doubting myself here. I felt disappointed with the results.”
“Idiot.” You felt a smack behind your back as you groaned in pain. You wondered how heavy your manager’s hand was. God, that hurts like hell.
“WHAT WAS THAT FOR MIA?! FUCK DO YOU WORKOUT ON YOUR GRIP??” You’re used to Mia’s physical attacks to knock you out of your senses, but this one is different from the previous ones that you were used to.
“You’re still doubting, dimwitt. You know that you can’t push yourself just to please others.”
“I know that, Mia, I just don’t like how much effort you put into me, and I felt like I wasted those opportunities, I might as well be back as being extra to commercials.” You slumped back on the couch. You had already given up on taking the roles you wanted, but Mia had other plans for you. She scrolled down her tablet as she smirked, and you thought it was either good or bad.
“Then read this critique.” She shoved the tablet to your face as you gently pushed the screen back. You took the tablet and read the notes. You furrowed your eyebrows; you weren’t expecting to read a whole paragraph of critiques about you. You tried your best to skim everything.
She remembered the lines well, especially with the facial expressions that we need in this film. However, we can’t consider her to be part of the film, not as a side character, but this kind of talent must be considered to be part of the main leads. Has she ever tried auditioning for the main lead? Then let her try, and I’m sure she will be able to outshine on her own.
After you've processed what you’ve read, there’s still a sense of doubt as you wonder if you were focusing on what you want, not what your talent can get. You hated being the center of attention, and yet, you wanted to become an actress. You gave the tablet back to Mia as she looked at you worriedly. You stayed silent for a while.
“You’re different than the others; most of the rookies would try everything to get the lead role or at least be part of bigger roles, but you. You would rather be an extra that has a minimal screentime.” Mia has been patient with you; she never pushes you to get the lead and supports your decision every step. But this time, she wanted to see how far you can go. She saw everything about you; she was intrigued not by your talent but by your ways of interacting with anyone.
“Is that a bad thing?” Mia shook her head at you as she gave you a warm smile. Like a mother would.
“No, it’s never a bad thing that you made your choice, but you will soon regret it. It’s better to try than never.” Mia noticed piles of papers on the floor. It was your scripts from the auditions that you tried; she picked them up and placed them on your lap.
“Well, it’s still your call. You don’t have to rush yourself. Text me when you are ready. I’ll be resting in my headquarters.” Mia picked up her tablet as she walked out of the apartment. You were still absent-minded, your room was a mess, and you didn’t have the strength to clean up your mess. You were still hungry from your soggy breakfast, you put on a sweater, and didn’t bother to change out of your pajamas because number one, it’s your lucky one, and number two, it’s the best comfort you have. You grabbed your apartment keys and went out of the street.
You were walking your way to a nearby convenience store, you weren’t going out much, and you’re practically out of stock in food. You tend to be lazy when cooking, and thank Goodness for air fryers. You walked in and grabbed a basket. The first aisle you went to was the frozen goods, then the chips, and lastly some energy drinks to keep you up while rehearsing some lines. While you head your way to the self-checkout out a kid suddenly ran passed you, which made you lose your balance and bump into someone behind you.
“Oh shit, I’m so sorry, a kid surprised me.” You panicked and got yourself ready for whatever scolding by a literal stranger. You immediately knelt and picked up the items from the ground when you stood back up It was an auburn woman wearing sunglasses, and you noticed how she tried to let you stand up.
“I-I think this is yours.” You handed out a pasta, and luckily it didn’t break or else the Italians would sue you for not doing it the right way. The woman smiled and accepted the pasta back.
“You don’t have to apologize. Did you hurt yourself, dear?” She tilted her head a little; somehow, you were astonished by her voice, you felt familiarity, like you had already heard her before. But you can’t pinpoint where it is.
“I’m perfectly fine, Ma’am.” You picked up your basket to let yourself check out, and you felt that the woman beside you stared at your purchased items.
Oh shit, I’m doomed, she’s judging that I am stressed and bought this junk. You had an internal panic in you. You just wanted to make this quick and get out of the awkwardness you had with people. Especially to a beautiful woman that you can’t even see her face, and yet has a beautiful voice to hear.
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to stare that much, but I was just wondering how you're still standing in all of that?” She referred to the unhealthy frozen goods you have. You quickly thought about everything, and hopefully you didn’t stutter a word and make yourself more embarrassed.
“Oh, I didn’t mean to get this a lot, but I eat when I’m stressed.”
“Is that so? I guess that’s your way to cope. Wanna know mine?” You were debating whether you were at ease with this stranger. You thought this was just a once in a lifetime to interact with them, so it wouldn’t hurt to be friendly. You nodded as this woman smiled, noticing how cute she looked when she smiled, and you guessed from her age that she was probably twice your age.
“I cook whenever I’m stressed from work. It helps me to relax and I get to eat something healthy.”
“That’s great, I don’t have a five-star Michelin rating to compete with it; the only thing I can do is boil water for my noodles.” You managed to make her chuckle with your humor.
“Then who does do the cooking for you?”
“My air fryer, I would be stumped without it. Thank the genius who made it.” Now, both of you laughed together; you were convinced that her laugh is much cuter every time it gets you. An older woman does hit you differently.
“You’re fun to be around, but unfortunately, I have to go now. It was nice knowing you.” She grabbed a plastic bag she placed her items. Before she left, she turned around and added.
“Whenever you’re stressed, eat something healthy and take the advice from someone you trust, which helped me a lot.” And with that, she left. Your eyes couldn’t look away from her until a staff member tapped your shoulder, which you noticed how you were holding up the line as you bowed repeatedly and apologized for checking out longer.
Once you've got all of your bags paid for and plenty of apologies, you walk your way back to your apartment. However, in the middle of your way, you remember what the strange woman told you before she left.
“Whenever you’re stressed, eat something healthy and take the advice from someone you trust, which helped me a lot.”
You stopped in your tracks as you picked out your phone from your pocket. You dialed the number you waited for it to ring. Once you heard her answer, you sighed and finally made up your mind.
In the busy streets of LA. Knock on the door and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. After you graduated three months ago, you were flooded with your unread emails, some of which were acceptance letters from universities and scholarships. But you weren’t like anyone, instead of being happy that you won’t be struggling financially, you wished you could’ve given it to someone who wants to be in college. Staring blankly at your laptop screen, waiting for your audition tape to be uploaded through your file, while your manager, AKA the one you always keep up with your chaotic attitude, aside from your aunt.
Once the process was complete, you got up from your chair as you stretched your arms up, hurting your back in the process.
“I’m not even 30 and yet I experience bad back pain.” You soothe your back as you paused when your phone buzzed. You picked it up from your kitchen counter and removed it from charging. The caller is your manager. Mia. You don’t have the energy to pull up your antics or to joke around with her.
“Hello?”
Hey, I saw your video for your auditions. I’ll be sure to give this to the directors
“Is that all you’re gonna ask me?”
Wow, no sarcastic remarks or loud interruptions?
“Not in the mood, Mia.” You said as you flopped yourself on the couch in your apartment. Your eyes stared at the ceiling while your phone was placed in your right ear.
What’s going on? Didn’t you receive those e-mails from your college application and scholarship? I swear I checked your account for it.
“Oh yeah, I just received it, and recently I felt like I’m losing my motivation to study this year.”
Wait!? You’re not going to college? You know that I handled your finances and your schedules, right?
“You know Mia.” You sat up on the couch as you rubbed your hand on your forehead. You sighed deeply as you had already thought about your decision from the moment you read the acceptance letters.
“A year break would be nice, and I can always come back to try again. Right now, I want to focus on acting.”
Then, what are you gonna do with your scholarships and acceptance letters?
“I want to give it to those students who need it and replace my name with theirs. It would be a waste if I just let this go. More people need this more than me, Mia.” Hearing a deep sigh on the other end, followed by a chuckle, you knew that your manager wasn’t upset with your decision.
You have a big heart. kid. I’ll send the updates from the directors ASAP. Get some rest
“Sure, I will.” You hung up the phone as you lay back down on your couch, your phone plopped on your chest, and you placed your arm behind your neck as a pillow.
Recalling your accomplishments and also doubts when you chose your happiness rather than what pleases others. You wondered why you’re determined to act; maybe it’s because you want to escape your reality.
She’s just a girl with a dream… until the biggest role of her life lands in her lap. One moment she’s rehearsing lines, the next, the world is watching her every move. Fame, pressure, and the chaos of Hollywood threaten to swallow her whole—but then, Elizabeth Olsen walks onto set.
With a smile that calms her nerves and a presence that makes the spotlight feel a little less blinding, Elizabeth becomes more than just a co-star—she becomes her anchor. But in a world full of scandals, big age gaps, and endless expectations, can she survive the fame, or will it destroy her before she even gets to shine?
Warnings: Big Age Gap, Scandals, Chaotic, Cursing, and Angst
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