#extradirty
Sade Olutola
No title available
noise dept.
No title available
@theartofmadeline
TVSTRANGERTHINGS
Show & Tell
PR's Tumblrdome
oozey mess
todays bird
Lint Roller? I Barely Know Her
One Nice Bug Per Day
Not today Justin
Kiana Khansmith
d e v o n
Cosimo Galluzzi
blake kathryn
Mike Driver
No title available
seen from Spain
seen from United States
seen from Vietnam
seen from Ukraine
seen from United States
seen from Uruguay
seen from Brazil
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Iraq
seen from United States
seen from Brazil
seen from Hong Kong SAR China
seen from Chile
seen from France
seen from Colombia
seen from Argentina
seen from United Kingdom
seen from India
seen from Saudi Arabia
@onceuponastory
onceuponastory | main masterlist
ao3 | wattpad | fic rec blog | library blog |
Also I know this is obvious, but I’m going to say it anyway. I do not consent to having my work copied, translated, or reposted on other sites. If you see my work anywhere other than this blog, or my AO3/Wattpad account, then it is not me and it has been reposted without my permission.
Last Updated: February 15th
General Masterlists
Sebastian Stan Characters Masterlist
Sam Wilson/Captain America Masterlist
Stranger Things Masterlist
Poker Face Masterlist (aka Charlie x Luca)
The Gray Man Masterlist Writing Challenge Masterlists
October 2023 Masterlist (includes flufftober and whumptober)
January Jumble Scribbles Masterlist (Includes fics for Bucky, Sam, Steve Harrington, and Charlie x Luca)
Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes I love you so much!!
an unexpected proposition - pirate!bucky barnes x lady!reader
Plot: When the notorious pirate Captain Bucky Barnes crashes her wedding, Y/N soon finds herself swept up in his life... and the unexpected proposition he makes her. Pairing: Pirate!Bucky Barnes x Lady!Reader Warnings: Forced marriage, abuse and violence, injuries (specifically bruising and a black eye), kidnapping, and the tiniest mention of blood, alcohol and Bucky's sword. Nothing too graphic, but please use your own discretion. Also period typical sexism and misogyny, and the usual pirate triggers. As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: Sorry this took me forever, I was dragged through June kicking and screaming, lol. But I love me some pirate Bucky!
Divider by @firefly-graphics
The sea crashes against the building, gulls and other sea birds’ cries filling the air. If Y/N turns her head in just the right way, she can even register the faint scent of salt in the air. Closing her eyes, she sighs softly. She longed to be out there, free and happy. Like the heroes and heroines in her stories, free to do whatever they want and travel wherever they want with no one to hold them back.
Instead, she’s trapped here, about to sign her life and her happiness away with nothing she can do about it.
The door opens, hitting against the wall with a loud bang. Y/N doesn’t even flinch anymore, already accustomed to her father’s intimidating presence and all the ways he makes it known. “Good, you’re ready.” He says, stepping in front of her and looking her up and down, his gaze scrutinising her for any imperfections. Her eyes drift beyond him, gazing at the sea and the horizon. “What are you looking at?” He snaps, turning his head to follow her gaze. “For god’s sake.” He mutters. “The sea again?”
“I was just looking, Father.” she responds, her voice soft.
“You’re always ‘just’ looking.” He lets out a derisive snort. “Just asking, just reading, just dreaming, just hoping for something else. When will you get your head out of the clouds, and stop with the disobedience?” he demands, his voice raising in volume.
“I don’t see the harm,” she retorts. "It's not as if-"
“I doubt Brock will like it either.” He huffs, ignoring her. The mention of her fiancé's name sends a shiver down her spine, and the bitter taste of bile rises in her throat.
Brock Rumlow, the son of her father’s late business partner, and heir to his fortune. It’s all the people in their town can talk about. How much sense it made to arrange a marriage between their offspring and continue the family business for generations to come, the unwillingness of the bride be damned.
Brock is just as cruel and cold-hearted as her father. He dismisses her books and business ideas with a condescending sneer, never supporting her goals or dreams, telling her not to trouble herself or ‘fill her pretty head with such matters’ like education or equality. And she’s lost count of the stories she’s heard about other women he’s been seeing, including whilst being with her. This has made her the subject of ridicule throughout society, mocking whispers of:
“Surely she must know?"
"I doubt it. Her father always says her head is in the clouds. I don't think she would know it was happening. even if she was looking right at it!"
"How mortifying! Can you even imagine it?" following her everywhere she goes.
Yet every time she brings this up, or tries to make her escape, she’s dragged back here. A dull ache pulses in her arm, prompting her to adjust her sleeve and hide the telltale fingerprint shaped bruises. Honestly, she’s given up hope of trying to flee, and resigned herself to being trapped here forever. Her chest tightens, her head fuzzy. And this time, she knows it’s not because her wedding outfit is far too tight and restrictive.
“He’s already told me as much, you know, and I agree,” her father continues. "Do you believe he actually enjoys being the subject of ridicule? Or that I do?! That all people say about you is how foolish you are to dream?!”
“You’re hardly a laughing stock, Father.” She says. “If anything, it’s me who is.” she murmurs.
“Do not back talk me.” He snaps. “Once you are married, Brock will ensure you become a true lady of society, one suitable for his position.” The thought makes Y/N shudder, and her eyes drop, her gaze now intently focused on the floor.
She’s always too much or too little of something.
Never just right.
Never good enough.
Tears threaten to spill from her eyes at the thought, and she bites her lip so hard she tastes blood, desperately trying to prevent her sobs from escaping.
“Smile, for god’s sake.” her father mutters, lifting her head to meet his. When she doesn’t respond, he leans closer, breath hot on her cheek. “Do you understand me?!”
"Y-Yes, Father," she stammers, her voice trembling slightly. A small, forced smile graces her lips as she nods.
“Good.” he looks her up and down once more. “After all, it is your wedding day. Looking so unhappy makes me look bad too.” He opens the door to the room, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer. “I’ll be back in five minutes. Don’t try another of your escape attempts.” he warns.
And with another slam of the door, Y/N is finally alone again.
As she and her father approach the end of the aisle, the pounding of Y/N’s heart is now so loud, she can hear it in her ears, intense enough to drown out the greetings Brock and her father give each other. Brock approaches, leering at her, and her stomach churns, her chest tightening with every breath. The priest moves forward, a warm smile gracing his lips.
If anybody knew she was doing this under duress (and given the looks she got as she walked down the aisle, she definitely suspected people did), nobody wanted to say a word to stop it. The truth of her reality truly hits her then, and her eyes wells up with tears once more.
But before the priest can even say a word, the doors swing open, and a figure saunters in. Immediately, every head in the room turns towards the door, and shocked, furious whispers fill the air.
“Is that?”
"I don't believe it! How dare he?!"
“It can’t be true! Surely not.”
“How dare he show his face here?” Y/N’s father huffs angrily, stepping closer. The crowd parts, and a hush falls as the figure emerges at the top of the aisle. Y/N gasps, recognising him immediately.
After all, his face appears on most of the town's wanted posters.
Living so close to the sea, Y/N has become well accustomed to tales of pirates plundering ships for their riches. After all, it’s all her father and Brock can talk about with their friends. ...Although it's more to boast that their ships are still safe, rather than concern for others.
But while many pirates are rumoured to sail in the waters beside her town, Bucky Barnes is the most feared, a legend whispered in hushed tones, full of stories of his brutality. Of treasures plundered ruthlessly, and of rivals, their ships reduced to burnt wrecks or sunk beneath the waves without a moment's hesitation.
And now, he’s at her wedding.
She didn’t even think it was possible, but somehow he looks far more intimidating in real life than on his wanted posters. He’s tall, and his metal arm gleams in the beams of sunlight peeking through the clouds and through the window. His brunette hair, slightly messy and tangled from the sea air, is pulled back partway into a bun, framing a stubbled face with patches of grey on his chin. Dressed head to toe in black, coat and all, a faint scent of smoke clings to him. Y/N also notices a thin, pale scar beside his left eye. However, Bucky pays her no mind, his piercing blue eyes focused intently on Brock and her father.
“Hello, gentlemen,” he says. His voice is deep and cold. “Forgive the intrusion. I would’ve waited until the priest asked for any objections…but my patience has run out.” He says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Y/N’s pulse quickens, and she looks to her father and Brock.
“What in god's name are you doing here? How dare you-“ her father sputters indignantly, but Bucky cuts him off.
“I’m here to collect my payment.”
“Payment? What in god’s name is he talking about?” she asks, speaking for the first time. Bucky’s eyes flicker to her, and he raises a brow, looking her up and down with a smirk. Y/N hates the feeling that hits her then. Because no matter the amount of blood that undoubtedly stains his hands, or his intimidating nature, Y/N can’t deny how drawn to him she is, or that she finds this blood-soaked, murderous pirate undeniably attractive.
“Oh, you didn’t tell your daughter, our beautiful bride to be, about our arrangement? My, how unfortunate.” Bucky chuckles, only adding to her irritation.
“Can someone please tell me what is going on here?” she demands angrily.
Even if him calling her beautiful did reignite her feelings towards him. If only slightly.
“Speaking of,” Bucky muses, ignoring her question. “I’m surprised I didn’t receive an invitation to this spectacle. I’m the one financing it, after all.”
“Excuse me?" Y/N frowns.
“Silence. This doesn’t concern her.” Brock hisses. Bucky scoffs.
“Oh, I think it does.” He responds, another smirk playing on his lips. That only makes Y/N even angrier. Once again, she’s not enough, not smart enough to know about her father and fiancé’s dealings, and it’s treated like a joke. “After all, does she know that you two,” he points to her father and Brock. “Gambled away her inheritance and dowry?”
“You did what?!” she gasps, outraged.
“My darling, why would you ever believe a pirate like him-” Brock says, a condescending sneer on his lips. He steps closer, and she flinches, instinctively moving away from him. Bucky’s eyes narrow, watching Brock’s intense glare, and how Y/N’s body trembles whenever he comes closer. A sense of indignation burns within his blood. He always knew Brock Rumlow and Lord Y/L/N were vile and unscrupulous men, but seeing Y/N, the innocent pawn in their schemes, for the first time ignites a deeper hatred within him.
And for the first time in a long time… Captain Bucky Barnes feels a sharp ache in his chest, and a wave of pity washing over him.
“I hate to be the one to tell you this, my lady, but your father, fiancé and I have a deal.” Bucky explains.
“Don’t you dare,” Brock sputters, his face contorted with anger. "It’s all lies, I have no dealings with-" Bucky cuts him off when he places his sword at his throat.
“Now. As I was saying…” Y/N watches Bucky, trying to gauge his feelings. Oddly enough, he seems… disappointed that he has to be the one to break the news to her, and angry that she had no idea. She can’t help how she feels her heart skip a beat at this revelation, that finally someone cares enough to let her know about something for once. But then, she remembers how complicit Bucky is in everything, and that feeling fades. “They met me in the pub after one of their failed gambling trips, recognised me instantly, of course,” Y/N rolls her eyes. Pompous asshole. “And we came to an agreement. I rob ships and places to keep them on top, and in return, I receive a cut and the freedom to keep doing so once the wedding goes through, thanks to your father’s connections.”
“Lies! It’s all lies!” Her father insists. “How dare you interrupt this day with such baseless accusations?!”
“Oh, shut up, you pathetic piece of shit.” Bucky snaps. Y/N gasps. No one had ever dared to speak to her father that way before. “I should’ve known trusting you was a terrible idea, but I refuse to let you escape the consequences. I’m here to collect my payment, and what better time to do it?” He steps back, lowering his sword from Brock’s neck. “And isn’t it time Y/N learned the truth about the two of you?”
“Is this true?” Y/N demands. Brock and her father exchange an uneasy glance, neither sure what to say. Y/N’s stomach churns, a mix of confusion, hurt, and anger brewing deep in her gut. And also… vindication. For so long, she knew Brock and her father were horrible people who cared about nothing but money and themselves, and finally she’s been proven right.
She just hates how she’s been an unwilling pawn in it the entire time. “You stole my dowry?! M-My inheritance?!” she spits, her voice trembling. “When were you going to tell me?”
With a dismissive scoff, Brock simply rolls his eyes. “We were hoping you wouldn’t find out like this, or at all.” He lets out a soft, amused chuckle. Like it’s all just a big joke. A surge of anger courses through her, and Y/N clenches her fists.
“You disgust me. All of you. You have no respect for others, least of all for me-” Brock approaches, his hand raised. Bucky rushes forward, coming to her defence.
But before either of them can react, Y/N is suddenly shoved forward, stumbling towards Bucky. He catches her immediately, pulling her close and holding her tightly against his chest. His body is warm, despite his coming in from the cold, and the cool metal of his arm against her skin. He smells like smoke, as she originally thought, but she can also detect a mixture of other scents. Of whisky, the salty sea air, of musk and sweat.
He smells…rather intriguing, actually.
But just as quickly as she’s in his arms, burying his nose into his chest, Bucky gently pushes her back again. His eyes narrow once more as they look over her, and for a split second he registers something, his gaze softening.
But it’s gone before she can dwell on it, so quickly she wonders if she imagined it. If she hoped for a split second that this man had a heart, and that anyone cared about her enough to fight for her.
But of course not.
“Take her.” Brock smirks. “There’s your payment.”
“You repulsive, pathetic man.” Y/N snaps. “How dare you use me like this?!” Bucky lets out a noise, something sounding like a chuckle.
“Very well.” Bucky nods.
“Excuse me?” Y/N demands, her eyes flashing with anger. “Don’t I get a say in this?” But Bucky is already leading her toward the door. “Father?!” she gasps, horrified and in disbelief.
Her father just stands there, watching the scene unfold without a word.
She struggles in Bucky’s arms, his grasp tightening. Nobody steps forward to help her, terrified to even approach the legendary, ruthless captain.
“Stop struggling.” Bucky hisses. He kicks open the door, and the pair spill into the chill air.
“No!” she snaps, squirming and kicking. “How dare you?! How dare possessive men like you think you have any claim over me, or t-that my worth is tied to my wealth or my body?! You ruined my life!”
“I can assure you, I’ve done no such thing.” he says, his voice low, his patience clearly waning.
“You’re literally kidnapping me right now, you-”
Bucky doesn’t answer, continuing to pull her through the streets towards the docks, ensuring they’re kept out of sight. His lack of response, and his refusal to admit or acknowledge what he’s doing only makes her angrier, and her escape attempt more determined. But Bucky is strong, his metal arm holding her back.
“Will you stop?!” is all he says once they’re aboard the ship. She’s about to bite back, tell him he has no right to be so angry at her, that she is the one who deserves to be angry. But Bucky’s eyes move away from her face, landing on something else. His jaw clenches, and his eyes narrow, the icy blue sparkle darkening. “Y/N. Who did this to you?” he demands.
“W-What?” she frowns, blinking in confusion. She follows Bucky’s gaze. When she sees what she’s looking at, her blood runs cold. In the scuffle, her dress sleeve must’ve rolled up, exposing the bruises on her arm.
“Y/N.” Bucky repeats. “Who did this to you?” She stays silent. Because what is there to say? Tell the pirate Captain who just kidnapped her that yes, her fiancé is violent? That her father knows and turns a blind eye, because he’s just as bad? Bucky steps closer, and she flinches, her heart pounding so hard it could break out of her chest.
The second she flinches, Bucky stops. “Don’t worry. I promise I won’t hurt you.” he says, his voice warmer, softer. She still watches him, terrified, like prey backed into a corner.
Why does this kidnapping feel like the first time someone has ever cared for her before?
He raises his human hand. “May I?”
He doesn’t move until she nods tentatively, and even then he continues to move slowly, gently dabbing her under eyes with his handkerchief. His skin brushes against her slightly, and it tingles. When Bucky sees what’s there, he tenses. The makeup did a good job of covering it before the ceremony, but the unmistakable remnants of a black eye still linger. “Was it Brock?” he asks, and she nods. “And the bruises?” Another nod. “Sick bastard.” he huffs.
“You worked with him.” She snaps back, her voice sharp.
“I know,” he nods. “But I had no other choice. It was for my crew and I’s survival. It was years ago, we were desperate for money.”
“You still did it.” He sighs, nodding.
“You’re right. If I’d have known he was doing this to you, though….” his metal arm clenches, whirring. “There’s no excuse for people who hurt the innocent.” Y/N scoffs, rolling her eyes.
“Please don’t act like you’re the hero in this story.” Bucky raises a brow. “You don’t get the reputation of being a bloodthirsty, murderous pirate without good reason.”
“I’m a pirate, Y/N. I’m not a monster.” he shakes his head. “That was merely for show back there, and the stories about me are greatly exaggerated.” When she doesn’t respond, he sighs. “I understand your reservations, but you can trust me. I swear I won’t hurt you. I steal, yes. But it’s purely for survival. And my crew and I only hurt people who deserve it.” his voice lowers, and his eyes narrow again. "And your fiancé," he spits. "Definitely deserves it."
Honestly, Y/N doesn’t know what to think. He seems honest, his tone sincere. And judging by the way his facial expression changed when he saw how Brock looked at her and the bruises, he seems to genuinely care about her.
But he still kidnapped her. He still conspired with her father and Brock.
“Why did you take me?” she asks, her voice quiet. “Clearly not for ransom, considering they stole all my-” Her voice breaks, and tears begin to fall. Bucky glances around, checking members of his crew aren't close enough to see her tears, and gently ushers her into his quarters. He offers her a whisky bottle, the scent of the rich liquor making her head spin. She shakes her head, and Bucky takes a swig. “Why are you doing this to me?” she manages to ask through her tears. “Why are you being so nice to me after you just kidnapped me?”
“Have a seat.” He offers, sitting at his desk. Sniffling and too exhausted and frightened to argue back, Y/N sits, sinking into the plush velvet of the chair. “I took you because I saw you.” When she frowns, he continues. “Well, I saw how frightened you were, and how you flinched whenever Brock or your father came near you. And I just knew that leaving you with them wasn't an option.”
“So you…kidnapped me?”
“What else was I supposed to do?” He raises a brow. He’s right, she knows he is. At the very least, she is free from Brock and her father now. She takes a deep breath, feeling as if an immense weight has been lifted from her.
"That's… very kind of you," she murmurs, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Thank you.” At the sight of her smile, Bucky smiles too.
“No need to thank me.” Immediately, Y/N’s heart rate picks up again, but not with fear this time.
He really is beautiful when he smiles.
Oh god, why is she thinking this way about her kidnapper?
Her head turns to the window, staring out at the sea as it crashes against the ship. Bucky chuckles softly. “You love the sea?”
“I do. I used to dream of being swept away to uncharted lands by the sea, somewhere far away from Brock and my father. They always told me to stop dreaming, that it was unbecoming of a lady of my stature, but it didn’t stop me.” she explains. Bucky listens intently, completely captivated. “I planned so many escape routes, but they caught me each time.” She sighs. “But I kept dreaming, hoping that one day I’d be free…that one day I’d be sailing on the sea.” And now, here she is, doing just that…albeit not the way she expected.
Seeing the way she looks at the sea, Bucky can’t help but smile. It reminds him of himself as a young kid, just trying to find his place in the world. Still trying to dream. “I love it too.” he chuckles. “Watching the sun rise and set over the horizon, seeing the vast, open sky and all the stars….” He sighs fondly. “There’s nothing like it.”
“Really? I haven’t seen the night sky properly in a long time.”
“I think you’ll love it. Seeing the night sky…it gives me so much peace, and….” he bites his lip slightly, running a hand through his brunette waves. “And I think you could use something like that.” he admits.
“Peace? I haven’t felt that in a very long time.” Bucky’s gaze moves to the floor, his stomach churning as he finds himself unable to meet Y/N’s gaze. Unable to confront what he’s done. He opens his mouth to say something, anything…but then stops, shaking his head. Because what could he possibly say? Apologise for playing a part in destroying her life? For kidnapping her? Sure, it was for her own safety, but he’s not a saint either. She’s right, he’s no hero.
Before today, he’s never felt like this before, so guilty, so…ashamed. Never had such a desire to be good, to be better.
And he’s definitely never felt so inexplicably drawn to his prisoner before.
But before she can ask what he was going to say, he clears his throat.
“I have a proposition for you.” he offers, and she raises a brow. “You can stay on my ship and have some time to rest and eat, and then you can either stay on board with us with our protection, or we can drop you off on another continent, far away from your father and Brock, with enough funds to get by.”
“Do I have to choose now?”
“Not at all. Take all the time you need.”
“You’d really do that for me?” She asks, still reeling from the fact that a pirate captain is the first and only person in a long time to actually care about her and her safety. Bucky nods. “And how should I know I can trust you?”
“You can’t.” He admits. “But you don't really have any other alternatives, do you? I’m certainly not going to return you to them, or leave you to fend for yourselves with all the other pirates around.” he huffs. Y/N decides not to ask if the other pirates are worse than Bucky and his crew. The look on his face left no doubt that they were.
He’s right, she knows he is. She really doesn’t have a choice here. And besides, soon she can get out of here, and get the freedom she always wanted. She just has to endure some time with this…incredibly intriguing pirate captain. Y/N nods, and Bucky’s grin grows wider.
“Well, Y/N, welcome aboard.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
Bucky the kidnapping saviour! 😍 Go with him girl what else are ya gonna do? He's hot, just doooo iiiiittt
I want them to kiss
He really is hot....I'd def go with him too 👀
Thank you for reading and commenting!! Glad to hear you loved it!
an unexpected proposition - pirate!bucky barnes x lady!reader
Plot: When the notorious pirate Captain Bucky Barnes crashes her wedding, Y/N soon finds herself swept up in his life... and the unexpected proposition he makes her. Pairing: Pirate!Bucky Barnes x Lady!Reader Warnings: Forced marriage, abuse and violence, injuries (specifically bruising and a black eye), kidnapping, and the tiniest mention of blood, alcohol and Bucky's sword. Nothing too graphic, but please use your own discretion. Also period typical sexism and misogyny, and the usual pirate triggers. As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: Sorry this took me forever, I was dragged through June kicking and screaming, lol. But I love me some pirate Bucky!
Divider by @firefly-graphics
The sea crashes against the building, gulls and other sea birds’ cries filling the air. If Y/N turns her head in just the right way, she can even register the faint scent of salt in the air. Closing her eyes, she sighs softly. She longed to be out there, free and happy. Like the heroes and heroines in her stories, free to do whatever they want and travel wherever they want with no one to hold them back.
Instead, she’s trapped here, about to sign her life and her happiness away with nothing she can do about it.
The door opens, hitting against the wall with a loud bang. Y/N doesn’t even flinch anymore, already accustomed to her father’s intimidating presence and all the ways he makes it known. “Good, you’re ready.” He says, stepping in front of her and looking her up and down, his gaze scrutinising her for any imperfections. Her eyes drift beyond him, gazing at the sea and the horizon. “What are you looking at?” He snaps, turning his head to follow her gaze. “For god’s sake.” He mutters. “The sea again?”
“I was just looking, Father.” she responds, her voice soft.
“You’re always ‘just’ looking.” He lets out a derisive snort. “Just asking, just reading, just dreaming, just hoping for something else. When will you get your head out of the clouds, and stop with the disobedience?” he demands, his voice raising in volume.
“I don’t see the harm,” she retorts. "It's not as if-"
“I doubt Brock will like it either.” He huffs, ignoring her. The mention of her fiancé's name sends a shiver down her spine, and the bitter taste of bile rises in her throat.
Brock Rumlow, the son of her father’s late business partner, and heir to his fortune. It’s all the people in their town can talk about. How much sense it made to arrange a marriage between their offspring and continue the family business for generations to come, the unwillingness of the bride be damned.
Brock is just as cruel and cold-hearted as her father. He dismisses her books and business ideas with a condescending sneer, never supporting her goals or dreams, telling her not to trouble herself or ‘fill her pretty head with such matters’ like education or equality. And she’s lost count of the stories she’s heard about other women he’s been seeing, including whilst being with her. This has made her the subject of ridicule throughout society, mocking whispers of:
“Surely she must know?"
"I doubt it. Her father always says her head is in the clouds. I don't think she would know it was happening. even if she was looking right at it!"
"How mortifying! Can you even imagine it?" following her everywhere she goes.
Yet every time she brings this up, or tries to make her escape, she’s dragged back here. A dull ache pulses in her arm, prompting her to adjust her sleeve and hide the telltale fingerprint shaped bruises. Honestly, she’s given up hope of trying to flee, and resigned herself to being trapped here forever. Her chest tightens, her head fuzzy. And this time, she knows it’s not because her wedding outfit is far too tight and restrictive.
“He’s already told me as much, you know, and I agree,” her father continues. "Do you believe he actually enjoys being the subject of ridicule? Or that I do?! That all people say about you is how foolish you are to dream?!”
“You’re hardly a laughing stock, Father.” She says. “If anything, it’s me who is.” she murmurs.
“Do not back talk me.” He snaps. “Once you are married, Brock will ensure you become a true lady of society, one suitable for his position.” The thought makes Y/N shudder, and her eyes drop, her gaze now intently focused on the floor.
She’s always too much or too little of something.
Never just right.
Never good enough.
Tears threaten to spill from her eyes at the thought, and she bites her lip so hard she tastes blood, desperately trying to prevent her sobs from escaping.
“Smile, for god’s sake.” her father mutters, lifting her head to meet his. When she doesn’t respond, he leans closer, breath hot on her cheek. “Do you understand me?!”
"Y-Yes, Father," she stammers, her voice trembling slightly. A small, forced smile graces her lips as she nods.
“Good.” he looks her up and down once more. “After all, it is your wedding day. Looking so unhappy makes me look bad too.” He opens the door to the room, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer. “I’ll be back in five minutes. Don’t try another of your escape attempts.” he warns.
And with another slam of the door, Y/N is finally alone again.
As she and her father approach the end of the aisle, the pounding of Y/N’s heart is now so loud, she can hear it in her ears, intense enough to drown out the greetings Brock and her father give each other. Brock approaches, leering at her, and her stomach churns, her chest tightening with every breath. The priest moves forward, a warm smile gracing his lips.
If anybody knew she was doing this under duress (and given the looks she got as she walked down the aisle, she definitely suspected people did), nobody wanted to say a word to stop it. The truth of her reality truly hits her then, and her eyes wells up with tears once more.
But before the priest can even say a word, the doors swing open, and a figure saunters in. Immediately, every head in the room turns towards the door, and shocked, furious whispers fill the air.
“Is that?”
"I don't believe it! How dare he?!"
“It can’t be true! Surely not.”
“How dare he show his face here?” Y/N’s father huffs angrily, stepping closer. The crowd parts, and a hush falls as the figure emerges at the top of the aisle. Y/N gasps, recognising him immediately.
After all, his face appears on most of the town's wanted posters.
Living so close to the sea, Y/N has become well accustomed to tales of pirates plundering ships for their riches. After all, it’s all her father and Brock can talk about with their friends. ...Although it's more to boast that their ships are still safe, rather than concern for others.
But while many pirates are rumoured to sail in the waters beside her town, Bucky Barnes is the most feared, a legend whispered in hushed tones, full of stories of his brutality. Of treasures plundered ruthlessly, and of rivals, their ships reduced to burnt wrecks or sunk beneath the waves without a moment's hesitation.
And now, he’s at her wedding.
She didn’t even think it was possible, but somehow he looks far more intimidating in real life than on his wanted posters. He’s tall, and his metal arm gleams in the beams of sunlight peeking through the clouds and through the window. His brunette hair, slightly messy and tangled from the sea air, is pulled back partway into a bun, framing a stubbled face with patches of grey on his chin. Dressed head to toe in black, coat and all, a faint scent of smoke clings to him. Y/N also notices a thin, pale scar beside his left eye. However, Bucky pays her no mind, his piercing blue eyes focused intently on Brock and her father.
“Hello, gentlemen,” he says. His voice is deep and cold. “Forgive the intrusion. I would’ve waited until the priest asked for any objections…but my patience has run out.” He says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Y/N’s pulse quickens, and she looks to her father and Brock.
“What in god's name are you doing here? How dare you-“ her father sputters indignantly, but Bucky cuts him off.
“I’m here to collect my payment.”
“Payment? What in god’s name is he talking about?” she asks, speaking for the first time. Bucky’s eyes flicker to her, and he raises a brow, looking her up and down with a smirk. Y/N hates the feeling that hits her then. Because no matter the amount of blood that undoubtedly stains his hands, or his intimidating nature, Y/N can’t deny how drawn to him she is, or that she finds this blood-soaked, murderous pirate undeniably attractive.
“Oh, you didn’t tell your daughter, our beautiful bride to be, about our arrangement? My, how unfortunate.” Bucky chuckles, only adding to her irritation.
“Can someone please tell me what is going on here?” she demands angrily.
Even if him calling her beautiful did reignite her feelings towards him. If only slightly.
“Speaking of,” Bucky muses, ignoring her question. “I’m surprised I didn’t receive an invitation to this spectacle. I’m the one financing it, after all.”
“Excuse me?" Y/N frowns.
“Silence. This doesn’t concern her.” Brock hisses. Bucky scoffs.
“Oh, I think it does.” He responds, another smirk playing on his lips. That only makes Y/N even angrier. Once again, she’s not enough, not smart enough to know about her father and fiancé’s dealings, and it’s treated like a joke. “After all, does she know that you two,” he points to her father and Brock. “Gambled away her inheritance and dowry?”
“You did what?!” she gasps, outraged.
“My darling, why would you ever believe a pirate like him-” Brock says, a condescending sneer on his lips. He steps closer, and she flinches, instinctively moving away from him. Bucky’s eyes narrow, watching Brock’s intense glare, and how Y/N’s body trembles whenever he comes closer. A sense of indignation burns within his blood. He always knew Brock Rumlow and Lord Y/L/N were vile and unscrupulous men, but seeing Y/N, the innocent pawn in their schemes, for the first time ignites a deeper hatred within him.
And for the first time in a long time… Captain Bucky Barnes feels a sharp ache in his chest, and a wave of pity washing over him.
“I hate to be the one to tell you this, my lady, but your father, fiancé and I have a deal.” Bucky explains.
“Don’t you dare,” Brock sputters, his face contorted with anger. "It’s all lies, I have no dealings with-" Bucky cuts him off when he places his sword at his throat.
“Now. As I was saying…” Y/N watches Bucky, trying to gauge his feelings. Oddly enough, he seems… disappointed that he has to be the one to break the news to her, and angry that she had no idea. She can’t help how she feels her heart skip a beat at this revelation, that finally someone cares enough to let her know about something for once. But then, she remembers how complicit Bucky is in everything, and that feeling fades. “They met me in the pub after one of their failed gambling trips, recognised me instantly, of course,” Y/N rolls her eyes. Pompous asshole. “And we came to an agreement. I rob ships and places to keep them on top, and in return, I receive a cut and the freedom to keep doing so once the wedding goes through, thanks to your father’s connections.”
“Lies! It’s all lies!” Her father insists. “How dare you interrupt this day with such baseless accusations?!”
“Oh, shut up, you pathetic piece of shit.” Bucky snaps. Y/N gasps. No one had ever dared to speak to her father that way before. “I should’ve known trusting you was a terrible idea, but I refuse to let you escape the consequences. I’m here to collect my payment, and what better time to do it?” He steps back, lowering his sword from Brock’s neck. “And isn’t it time Y/N learned the truth about the two of you?”
“Is this true?” Y/N demands. Brock and her father exchange an uneasy glance, neither sure what to say. Y/N’s stomach churns, a mix of confusion, hurt, and anger brewing deep in her gut. And also… vindication. For so long, she knew Brock and her father were horrible people who cared about nothing but money and themselves, and finally she’s been proven right.
She just hates how she’s been an unwilling pawn in it the entire time. “You stole my dowry?! M-My inheritance?!” she spits, her voice trembling. “When were you going to tell me?”
With a dismissive scoff, Brock simply rolls his eyes. “We were hoping you wouldn’t find out like this, or at all.” He lets out a soft, amused chuckle. Like it’s all just a big joke. A surge of anger courses through her, and Y/N clenches her fists.
“You disgust me. All of you. You have no respect for others, least of all for me-” Brock approaches, his hand raised. Bucky rushes forward, coming to her defence.
But before either of them can react, Y/N is suddenly shoved forward, stumbling towards Bucky. He catches her immediately, pulling her close and holding her tightly against his chest. His body is warm, despite his coming in from the cold, and the cool metal of his arm against her skin. He smells like smoke, as she originally thought, but she can also detect a mixture of other scents. Of whisky, the salty sea air, of musk and sweat.
He smells…rather intriguing, actually.
But just as quickly as she’s in his arms, burying his nose into his chest, Bucky gently pushes her back again. His eyes narrow once more as they look over her, and for a split second he registers something, his gaze softening.
But it’s gone before she can dwell on it, so quickly she wonders if she imagined it. If she hoped for a split second that this man had a heart, and that anyone cared about her enough to fight for her.
But of course not.
“Take her.” Brock smirks. “There’s your payment.”
“You repulsive, pathetic man.” Y/N snaps. “How dare you use me like this?!” Bucky lets out a noise, something sounding like a chuckle.
“Very well.” Bucky nods.
“Excuse me?” Y/N demands, her eyes flashing with anger. “Don’t I get a say in this?” But Bucky is already leading her toward the door. “Father?!” she gasps, horrified and in disbelief.
Her father just stands there, watching the scene unfold without a word.
She struggles in Bucky’s arms, his grasp tightening. Nobody steps forward to help her, terrified to even approach the legendary, ruthless captain.
“Stop struggling.” Bucky hisses. He kicks open the door, and the pair spill into the chill air.
“No!” she snaps, squirming and kicking. “How dare you?! How dare possessive men like you think you have any claim over me, or t-that my worth is tied to my wealth or my body?! You ruined my life!”
“I can assure you, I’ve done no such thing.” he says, his voice low, his patience clearly waning.
“You’re literally kidnapping me right now, you-”
Bucky doesn’t answer, continuing to pull her through the streets towards the docks, ensuring they’re kept out of sight. His lack of response, and his refusal to admit or acknowledge what he’s doing only makes her angrier, and her escape attempt more determined. But Bucky is strong, his metal arm holding her back.
“Will you stop?!” is all he says once they’re aboard the ship. She’s about to bite back, tell him he has no right to be so angry at her, that she is the one who deserves to be angry. But Bucky’s eyes move away from her face, landing on something else. His jaw clenches, and his eyes narrow, the icy blue sparkle darkening. “Y/N. Who did this to you?” he demands.
“W-What?” she frowns, blinking in confusion. She follows Bucky’s gaze. When she sees what she’s looking at, her blood runs cold. In the scuffle, her dress sleeve must’ve rolled up, exposing the bruises on her arm.
“Y/N.” Bucky repeats. “Who did this to you?” She stays silent. Because what is there to say? Tell the pirate Captain who just kidnapped her that yes, her fiancé is violent? That her father knows and turns a blind eye, because he’s just as bad? Bucky steps closer, and she flinches, her heart pounding so hard it could break out of her chest.
The second she flinches, Bucky stops. “Don’t worry. I promise I won’t hurt you.” he says, his voice warmer, softer. She still watches him, terrified, like prey backed into a corner.
Why does this kidnapping feel like the first time someone has ever cared for her before?
He raises his human hand. “May I?”
He doesn’t move until she nods tentatively, and even then he continues to move slowly, gently dabbing her under eyes with his handkerchief. His skin brushes against her slightly, and it tingles. When Bucky sees what’s there, he tenses. The makeup did a good job of covering it before the ceremony, but the unmistakable remnants of a black eye still linger. “Was it Brock?” he asks, and she nods. “And the bruises?” Another nod. “Sick bastard.” he huffs.
“You worked with him.” She snaps back, her voice sharp.
“I know,” he nods. “But I had no other choice. It was for my crew and I’s survival. It was years ago, we were desperate for money.”
“You still did it.” He sighs, nodding.
“You’re right. If I’d have known he was doing this to you, though….” his metal arm clenches, whirring. “There’s no excuse for people who hurt the innocent.” Y/N scoffs, rolling her eyes.
“Please don’t act like you’re the hero in this story.” Bucky raises a brow. “You don’t get the reputation of being a bloodthirsty, murderous pirate without good reason.”
“I’m a pirate, Y/N. I’m not a monster.” he shakes his head. “That was merely for show back there, and the stories about me are greatly exaggerated.” When she doesn’t respond, he sighs. “I understand your reservations, but you can trust me. I swear I won’t hurt you. I steal, yes. But it’s purely for survival. And my crew and I only hurt people who deserve it.” his voice lowers, and his eyes narrow again. "And your fiancé," he spits. "Definitely deserves it."
Honestly, Y/N doesn’t know what to think. He seems honest, his tone sincere. And judging by the way his facial expression changed when he saw how Brock looked at her and the bruises, he seems to genuinely care about her.
But he still kidnapped her. He still conspired with her father and Brock.
“Why did you take me?” she asks, her voice quiet. “Clearly not for ransom, considering they stole all my-” Her voice breaks, and tears begin to fall. Bucky glances around, checking members of his crew aren't close enough to see her tears, and gently ushers her into his quarters. He offers her a whisky bottle, the scent of the rich liquor making her head spin. She shakes her head, and Bucky takes a swig. “Why are you doing this to me?” she manages to ask through her tears. “Why are you being so nice to me after you just kidnapped me?”
“Have a seat.” He offers, sitting at his desk. Sniffling and too exhausted and frightened to argue back, Y/N sits, sinking into the plush velvet of the chair. “I took you because I saw you.” When she frowns, he continues. “Well, I saw how frightened you were, and how you flinched whenever Brock or your father came near you. And I just knew that leaving you with them wasn't an option.”
“So you…kidnapped me?”
“What else was I supposed to do?” He raises a brow. He’s right, she knows he is. At the very least, she is free from Brock and her father now. She takes a deep breath, feeling as if an immense weight has been lifted from her.
"That's… very kind of you," she murmurs, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Thank you.” At the sight of her smile, Bucky smiles too.
“No need to thank me.” Immediately, Y/N’s heart rate picks up again, but not with fear this time.
He really is beautiful when he smiles.
Oh god, why is she thinking this way about her kidnapper?
Her head turns to the window, staring out at the sea as it crashes against the ship. Bucky chuckles softly. “You love the sea?”
“I do. I used to dream of being swept away to uncharted lands by the sea, somewhere far away from Brock and my father. They always told me to stop dreaming, that it was unbecoming of a lady of my stature, but it didn’t stop me.” she explains. Bucky listens intently, completely captivated. “I planned so many escape routes, but they caught me each time.” She sighs. “But I kept dreaming, hoping that one day I’d be free…that one day I’d be sailing on the sea.” And now, here she is, doing just that…albeit not the way she expected.
Seeing the way she looks at the sea, Bucky can’t help but smile. It reminds him of himself as a young kid, just trying to find his place in the world. Still trying to dream. “I love it too.” he chuckles. “Watching the sun rise and set over the horizon, seeing the vast, open sky and all the stars….” He sighs fondly. “There’s nothing like it.”
“Really? I haven’t seen the night sky properly in a long time.”
“I think you’ll love it. Seeing the night sky…it gives me so much peace, and….” he bites his lip slightly, running a hand through his brunette waves. “And I think you could use something like that.” he admits.
“Peace? I haven’t felt that in a very long time.” Bucky’s gaze moves to the floor, his stomach churning as he finds himself unable to meet Y/N’s gaze. Unable to confront what he’s done. He opens his mouth to say something, anything…but then stops, shaking his head. Because what could he possibly say? Apologise for playing a part in destroying her life? For kidnapping her? Sure, it was for her own safety, but he’s not a saint either. She’s right, he’s no hero.
Before today, he’s never felt like this before, so guilty, so…ashamed. Never had such a desire to be good, to be better.
And he’s definitely never felt so inexplicably drawn to his prisoner before.
But before she can ask what he was going to say, he clears his throat.
“I have a proposition for you.” he offers, and she raises a brow. “You can stay on my ship and have some time to rest and eat, and then you can either stay on board with us with our protection, or we can drop you off on another continent, far away from your father and Brock, with enough funds to get by.”
“Do I have to choose now?”
“Not at all. Take all the time you need.”
“You’d really do that for me?” She asks, still reeling from the fact that a pirate captain is the first and only person in a long time to actually care about her and her safety. Bucky nods. “And how should I know I can trust you?”
“You can’t.” He admits. “But you don't really have any other alternatives, do you? I’m certainly not going to return you to them, or leave you to fend for yourselves with all the other pirates around.” he huffs. Y/N decides not to ask if the other pirates are worse than Bucky and his crew. The look on his face left no doubt that they were.
He’s right, she knows he is. She really doesn’t have a choice here. And besides, soon she can get out of here, and get the freedom she always wanted. She just has to endure some time with this…incredibly intriguing pirate captain. Y/N nods, and Bucky’s grin grows wider.
“Well, Y/N, welcome aboard.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
an unexpected proposition - pirate!bucky barnes x lady!reader
Plot: When the notorious pirate Captain Bucky Barnes crashes her wedding, Y/N soon finds herself swept up in his life... and the unexpected proposition he makes her. Pairing: Pirate!Bucky Barnes x Lady!Reader Warnings: Forced marriage, abuse and violence, injuries (specifically bruising and a black eye), kidnapping, and the tiniest mention of blood, alcohol and Bucky's sword. Nothing too graphic, but please use your own discretion. Also period typical sexism and misogyny, and the usual pirate triggers. As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: Sorry this took me forever, I was dragged through June kicking and screaming, lol. But I love me some pirate Bucky!
Divider by @firefly-graphics
The sea crashes against the building, gulls and other sea birds’ cries filling the air. If Y/N turns her head in just the right way, she can even register the faint scent of salt in the air. Closing her eyes, she sighs softly. She longed to be out there, free and happy. Like the heroes and heroines in her stories, free to do whatever they want and travel wherever they want with no one to hold them back.
Instead, she’s trapped here, about to sign her life and her happiness away with nothing she can do about it.
The door opens, hitting against the wall with a loud bang. Y/N doesn’t even flinch anymore, already accustomed to her father’s intimidating presence and all the ways he makes it known. “Good, you’re ready.” He says, stepping in front of her and looking her up and down, his gaze scrutinising her for any imperfections. Her eyes drift beyond him, gazing at the sea and the horizon. “What are you looking at?” He snaps, turning his head to follow her gaze. “For god’s sake.” He mutters. “The sea again?”
“I was just looking, Father.” she responds, her voice soft.
“You’re always ‘just’ looking.” He lets out a derisive snort. “Just asking, just reading, just dreaming, just hoping for something else. When will you get your head out of the clouds, and stop with the disobedience?” he demands, his voice raising in volume.
“I don’t see the harm,” she retorts. "It's not as if-"
“I doubt Brock will like it either.” He huffs, ignoring her. The mention of her fiancé's name sends a shiver down her spine, and the bitter taste of bile rises in her throat.
Brock Rumlow, the son of her father’s late business partner, and heir to his fortune. It’s all the people in their town can talk about. How much sense it made to arrange a marriage between their offspring and continue the family business for generations to come, the unwillingness of the bride be damned.
Brock is just as cruel and cold-hearted as her father. He dismisses her books and business ideas with a condescending sneer, never supporting her goals or dreams, telling her not to trouble herself or ‘fill her pretty head with such matters’ like education or equality. And she’s lost count of the stories she’s heard about other women he’s been seeing, including whilst being with her. This has made her the subject of ridicule throughout society, mocking whispers of:
“Surely she must know?"
"I doubt it. Her father always says her head is in the clouds. I don't think she would know it was happening. even if she was looking right at it!"
"How mortifying! Can you even imagine it?" following her everywhere she goes.
Yet every time she brings this up, or tries to make her escape, she’s dragged back here. A dull ache pulses in her arm, prompting her to adjust her sleeve and hide the telltale fingerprint shaped bruises. Honestly, she’s given up hope of trying to flee, and resigned herself to being trapped here forever. Her chest tightens, her head fuzzy. And this time, she knows it’s not because her wedding outfit is far too tight and restrictive.
“He’s already told me as much, you know, and I agree,” her father continues. "Do you believe he actually enjoys being the subject of ridicule? Or that I do?! That all people say about you is how foolish you are to dream?!”
“You’re hardly a laughing stock, Father.” She says. “If anything, it’s me who is.” she murmurs.
“Do not back talk me.” He snaps. “Once you are married, Brock will ensure you become a true lady of society, one suitable for his position.” The thought makes Y/N shudder, and her eyes drop, her gaze now intently focused on the floor.
She’s always too much or too little of something.
Never just right.
Never good enough.
Tears threaten to spill from her eyes at the thought, and she bites her lip so hard she tastes blood, desperately trying to prevent her sobs from escaping.
“Smile, for god’s sake.” her father mutters, lifting her head to meet his. When she doesn’t respond, he leans closer, breath hot on her cheek. “Do you understand me?!”
"Y-Yes, Father," she stammers, her voice trembling slightly. A small, forced smile graces her lips as she nods.
“Good.” he looks her up and down once more. “After all, it is your wedding day. Looking so unhappy makes me look bad too.” He opens the door to the room, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer. “I’ll be back in five minutes. Don’t try another of your escape attempts.” he warns.
And with another slam of the door, Y/N is finally alone again.
As she and her father approach the end of the aisle, the pounding of Y/N’s heart is now so loud, she can hear it in her ears, intense enough to drown out the greetings Brock and her father give each other. Brock approaches, leering at her, and her stomach churns, her chest tightening with every breath. The priest moves forward, a warm smile gracing his lips.
If anybody knew she was doing this under duress (and given the looks she got as she walked down the aisle, she definitely suspected people did), nobody wanted to say a word to stop it. The truth of her reality truly hits her then, and her eyes wells up with tears once more.
But before the priest can even say a word, the doors swing open, and a figure saunters in. Immediately, every head in the room turns towards the door, and shocked, furious whispers fill the air.
“Is that?”
"I don't believe it! How dare he?!"
“It can’t be true! Surely not.”
“How dare he show his face here?” Y/N’s father huffs angrily, stepping closer. The crowd parts, and a hush falls as the figure emerges at the top of the aisle. Y/N gasps, recognising him immediately.
After all, his face appears on most of the town's wanted posters.
Living so close to the sea, Y/N has become well accustomed to tales of pirates plundering ships for their riches. After all, it’s all her father and Brock can talk about with their friends. ...Although it's more to boast that their ships are still safe, rather than concern for others.
But while many pirates are rumoured to sail in the waters beside her town, Bucky Barnes is the most feared, a legend whispered in hushed tones, full of stories of his brutality. Of treasures plundered ruthlessly, and of rivals, their ships reduced to burnt wrecks or sunk beneath the waves without a moment's hesitation.
And now, he’s at her wedding.
She didn’t even think it was possible, but somehow he looks far more intimidating in real life than on his wanted posters. He’s tall, and his metal arm gleams in the beams of sunlight peeking through the clouds and through the window. His brunette hair, slightly messy and tangled from the sea air, is pulled back partway into a bun, framing a stubbled face with patches of grey on his chin. Dressed head to toe in black, coat and all, a faint scent of smoke clings to him. Y/N also notices a thin, pale scar beside his left eye. However, Bucky pays her no mind, his piercing blue eyes focused intently on Brock and her father.
“Hello, gentlemen,” he says. His voice is deep and cold. “Forgive the intrusion. I would’ve waited until the priest asked for any objections…but my patience has run out.” He says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Y/N’s pulse quickens, and she looks to her father and Brock.
“What in god's name are you doing here? How dare you-“ her father sputters indignantly, but Bucky cuts him off.
“I’m here to collect my payment.”
“Payment? What in god’s name is he talking about?” she asks, speaking for the first time. Bucky’s eyes flicker to her, and he raises a brow, looking her up and down with a smirk. Y/N hates the feeling that hits her then. Because no matter the amount of blood that undoubtedly stains his hands, or his intimidating nature, Y/N can’t deny how drawn to him she is, or that she finds this blood-soaked, murderous pirate undeniably attractive.
“Oh, you didn’t tell your daughter, our beautiful bride to be, about our arrangement? My, how unfortunate.” Bucky chuckles, only adding to her irritation.
“Can someone please tell me what is going on here?” she demands angrily.
Even if him calling her beautiful did reignite her feelings towards him. If only slightly.
“Speaking of,” Bucky muses, ignoring her question. “I’m surprised I didn’t receive an invitation to this spectacle. I’m the one financing it, after all.”
“Excuse me?" Y/N frowns.
“Silence. This doesn’t concern her.” Brock hisses. Bucky scoffs.
“Oh, I think it does.” He responds, another smirk playing on his lips. That only makes Y/N even angrier. Once again, she’s not enough, not smart enough to know about her father and fiancé’s dealings, and it’s treated like a joke. “After all, does she know that you two,” he points to her father and Brock. “Gambled away her inheritance and dowry?”
“You did what?!” she gasps, outraged.
“My darling, why would you ever believe a pirate like him-” Brock says, a condescending sneer on his lips. He steps closer, and she flinches, instinctively moving away from him. Bucky’s eyes narrow, watching Brock’s intense glare, and how Y/N’s body trembles whenever he comes closer. A sense of indignation burns within his blood. He always knew Brock Rumlow and Lord Y/L/N were vile and unscrupulous men, but seeing Y/N, the innocent pawn in their schemes, for the first time ignites a deeper hatred within him.
And for the first time in a long time… Captain Bucky Barnes feels a sharp ache in his chest, and a wave of pity washing over him.
“I hate to be the one to tell you this, my lady, but your father, fiancé and I have a deal.” Bucky explains.
“Don’t you dare,” Brock sputters, his face contorted with anger. "It’s all lies, I have no dealings with-" Bucky cuts him off when he places his sword at his throat.
“Now. As I was saying…” Y/N watches Bucky, trying to gauge his feelings. Oddly enough, he seems… disappointed that he has to be the one to break the news to her, and angry that she had no idea. She can’t help how she feels her heart skip a beat at this revelation, that finally someone cares enough to let her know about something for once. But then, she remembers how complicit Bucky is in everything, and that feeling fades. “They met me in the pub after one of their failed gambling trips, recognised me instantly, of course,” Y/N rolls her eyes. Pompous asshole. “And we came to an agreement. I rob ships and places to keep them on top, and in return, I receive a cut and the freedom to keep doing so once the wedding goes through, thanks to your father’s connections.”
“Lies! It’s all lies!” Her father insists. “How dare you interrupt this day with such baseless accusations?!”
“Oh, shut up, you pathetic piece of shit.” Bucky snaps. Y/N gasps. No one had ever dared to speak to her father that way before. “I should’ve known trusting you was a terrible idea, but I refuse to let you escape the consequences. I’m here to collect my payment, and what better time to do it?” He steps back, lowering his sword from Brock’s neck. “And isn’t it time Y/N learned the truth about the two of you?”
“Is this true?” Y/N demands. Brock and her father exchange an uneasy glance, neither sure what to say. Y/N’s stomach churns, a mix of confusion, hurt, and anger brewing deep in her gut. And also… vindication. For so long, she knew Brock and her father were horrible people who cared about nothing but money and themselves, and finally she’s been proven right.
She just hates how she’s been an unwilling pawn in it the entire time. “You stole my dowry?! M-My inheritance?!” she spits, her voice trembling. “When were you going to tell me?”
With a dismissive scoff, Brock simply rolls his eyes. “We were hoping you wouldn’t find out like this, or at all.” He lets out a soft, amused chuckle. Like it’s all just a big joke. A surge of anger courses through her, and Y/N clenches her fists.
“You disgust me. All of you. You have no respect for others, least of all for me-” Brock approaches, his hand raised. Bucky rushes forward, coming to her defence.
But before either of them can react, Y/N is suddenly shoved forward, stumbling towards Bucky. He catches her immediately, pulling her close and holding her tightly against his chest. His body is warm, despite his coming in from the cold, and the cool metal of his arm against her skin. He smells like smoke, as she originally thought, but she can also detect a mixture of other scents. Of whisky, the salty sea air, of musk and sweat.
He smells…rather intriguing, actually.
But just as quickly as she’s in his arms, burying his nose into his chest, Bucky gently pushes her back again. His eyes narrow once more as they look over her, and for a split second he registers something, his gaze softening.
But it’s gone before she can dwell on it, so quickly she wonders if she imagined it. If she hoped for a split second that this man had a heart, and that anyone cared about her enough to fight for her.
But of course not.
“Take her.” Brock smirks. “There’s your payment.”
“You repulsive, pathetic man.” Y/N snaps. “How dare you use me like this?!” Bucky lets out a noise, something sounding like a chuckle.
“Very well.” Bucky nods.
“Excuse me?” Y/N demands, her eyes flashing with anger. “Don’t I get a say in this?” But Bucky is already leading her toward the door. “Father?!” she gasps, horrified and in disbelief.
Her father just stands there, watching the scene unfold without a word.
She struggles in Bucky’s arms, his grasp tightening. Nobody steps forward to help her, terrified to even approach the legendary, ruthless captain.
“Stop struggling.” Bucky hisses. He kicks open the door, and the pair spill into the chill air.
“No!” she snaps, squirming and kicking. “How dare you?! How dare possessive men like you think you have any claim over me, or t-that my worth is tied to my wealth or my body?! You ruined my life!”
“I can assure you, I’ve done no such thing.” he says, his voice low, his patience clearly waning.
“You’re literally kidnapping me right now, you-”
Bucky doesn’t answer, continuing to pull her through the streets towards the docks, ensuring they’re kept out of sight. His lack of response, and his refusal to admit or acknowledge what he’s doing only makes her angrier, and her escape attempt more determined. But Bucky is strong, his metal arm holding her back.
“Will you stop?!” is all he says once they’re aboard the ship. She’s about to bite back, tell him he has no right to be so angry at her, that she is the one who deserves to be angry. But Bucky’s eyes move away from her face, landing on something else. His jaw clenches, and his eyes narrow, the icy blue sparkle darkening. “Y/N. Who did this to you?” he demands.
“W-What?” she frowns, blinking in confusion. She follows Bucky’s gaze. When she sees what she’s looking at, her blood runs cold. In the scuffle, her dress sleeve must’ve rolled up, exposing the bruises on her arm.
“Y/N.” Bucky repeats. “Who did this to you?” She stays silent. Because what is there to say? Tell the pirate Captain who just kidnapped her that yes, her fiancé is violent? That her father knows and turns a blind eye, because he’s just as bad? Bucky steps closer, and she flinches, her heart pounding so hard it could break out of her chest.
The second she flinches, Bucky stops. “Don’t worry. I promise I won’t hurt you.” he says, his voice warmer, softer. She still watches him, terrified, like prey backed into a corner.
Why does this kidnapping feel like the first time someone has ever cared for her before?
He raises his human hand. “May I?”
He doesn’t move until she nods tentatively, and even then he continues to move slowly, gently dabbing her under eyes with his handkerchief. His skin brushes against her slightly, and it tingles. When Bucky sees what’s there, he tenses. The makeup did a good job of covering it before the ceremony, but the unmistakable remnants of a black eye still linger. “Was it Brock?” he asks, and she nods. “And the bruises?” Another nod. “Sick bastard.” he huffs.
“You worked with him.” She snaps back, her voice sharp.
“I know,” he nods. “But I had no other choice. It was for my crew and I’s survival. It was years ago, we were desperate for money.”
“You still did it.” He sighs, nodding.
“You’re right. If I’d have known he was doing this to you, though….” his metal arm clenches, whirring. “There’s no excuse for people who hurt the innocent.” Y/N scoffs, rolling her eyes.
“Please don’t act like you’re the hero in this story.” Bucky raises a brow. “You don’t get the reputation of being a bloodthirsty, murderous pirate without good reason.”
“I’m a pirate, Y/N. I’m not a monster.” he shakes his head. “That was merely for show back there, and the stories about me are greatly exaggerated.” When she doesn’t respond, he sighs. “I understand your reservations, but you can trust me. I swear I won’t hurt you. I steal, yes. But it’s purely for survival. And my crew and I only hurt people who deserve it.” his voice lowers, and his eyes narrow again. "And your fiancé," he spits. "Definitely deserves it."
Honestly, Y/N doesn’t know what to think. He seems honest, his tone sincere. And judging by the way his facial expression changed when he saw how Brock looked at her and the bruises, he seems to genuinely care about her.
But he still kidnapped her. He still conspired with her father and Brock.
“Why did you take me?” she asks, her voice quiet. “Clearly not for ransom, considering they stole all my-” Her voice breaks, and tears begin to fall. Bucky glances around, checking members of his crew aren't close enough to see her tears, and gently ushers her into his quarters. He offers her a whisky bottle, the scent of the rich liquor making her head spin. She shakes her head, and Bucky takes a swig. “Why are you doing this to me?” she manages to ask through her tears. “Why are you being so nice to me after you just kidnapped me?”
“Have a seat.” He offers, sitting at his desk. Sniffling and too exhausted and frightened to argue back, Y/N sits, sinking into the plush velvet of the chair. “I took you because I saw you.” When she frowns, he continues. “Well, I saw how frightened you were, and how you flinched whenever Brock or your father came near you. And I just knew that leaving you with them wasn't an option.”
“So you…kidnapped me?”
“What else was I supposed to do?” He raises a brow. He’s right, she knows he is. At the very least, she is free from Brock and her father now. She takes a deep breath, feeling as if an immense weight has been lifted from her.
"That's… very kind of you," she murmurs, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Thank you.” At the sight of her smile, Bucky smiles too.
“No need to thank me.” Immediately, Y/N’s heart rate picks up again, but not with fear this time.
He really is beautiful when he smiles.
Oh god, why is she thinking this way about her kidnapper?
Her head turns to the window, staring out at the sea as it crashes against the ship. Bucky chuckles softly. “You love the sea?”
“I do. I used to dream of being swept away to uncharted lands by the sea, somewhere far away from Brock and my father. They always told me to stop dreaming, that it was unbecoming of a lady of my stature, but it didn’t stop me.” she explains. Bucky listens intently, completely captivated. “I planned so many escape routes, but they caught me each time.” She sighs. “But I kept dreaming, hoping that one day I’d be free…that one day I’d be sailing on the sea.” And now, here she is, doing just that…albeit not the way she expected.
Seeing the way she looks at the sea, Bucky can’t help but smile. It reminds him of himself as a young kid, just trying to find his place in the world. Still trying to dream. “I love it too.” he chuckles. “Watching the sun rise and set over the horizon, seeing the vast, open sky and all the stars….” He sighs fondly. “There’s nothing like it.”
“Really? I haven’t seen the night sky properly in a long time.”
“I think you’ll love it. Seeing the night sky…it gives me so much peace, and….” he bites his lip slightly, running a hand through his brunette waves. “And I think you could use something like that.” he admits.
“Peace? I haven’t felt that in a very long time.” Bucky’s gaze moves to the floor, his stomach churning as he finds himself unable to meet Y/N’s gaze. Unable to confront what he’s done. He opens his mouth to say something, anything…but then stops, shaking his head. Because what could he possibly say? Apologise for playing a part in destroying her life? For kidnapping her? Sure, it was for her own safety, but he’s not a saint either. She’s right, he’s no hero.
Before today, he’s never felt like this before, so guilty, so…ashamed. Never had such a desire to be good, to be better.
And he’s definitely never felt so inexplicably drawn to his prisoner before.
But before she can ask what he was going to say, he clears his throat.
“I have a proposition for you.” he offers, and she raises a brow. “You can stay on my ship and have some time to rest and eat, and then you can either stay on board with us with our protection, or we can drop you off on another continent, far away from your father and Brock, with enough funds to get by.”
“Do I have to choose now?”
“Not at all. Take all the time you need.”
“You’d really do that for me?” She asks, still reeling from the fact that a pirate captain is the first and only person in a long time to actually care about her and her safety. Bucky nods. “And how should I know I can trust you?”
“You can’t.” He admits. “But you don't really have any other alternatives, do you? I’m certainly not going to return you to them, or leave you to fend for yourselves with all the other pirates around.” he huffs. Y/N decides not to ask if the other pirates are worse than Bucky and his crew. The look on his face left no doubt that they were.
He’s right, she knows he is. She really doesn’t have a choice here. And besides, soon she can get out of here, and get the freedom she always wanted. She just has to endure some time with this…incredibly intriguing pirate captain. Y/N nods, and Bucky’s grin grows wider.
“Well, Y/N, welcome aboard.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
an unexpected proposition - pirate!bucky barnes x lady!reader
Plot: When the notorious pirate Captain Bucky Barnes crashes her wedding, Y/N soon finds herself swept up in his life... and the unexpected proposition he makes her. Pairing: Pirate!Bucky Barnes x Lady!Reader Warnings: Forced marriage, abuse and violence, injuries (specifically bruising and a black eye), kidnapping, and the tiniest mention of blood, alcohol and Bucky's sword. Nothing too graphic, but please use your own discretion. Also period typical sexism and misogyny, and the usual pirate triggers. As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: Sorry this took me forever, I was dragged through June kicking and screaming, lol. But I love me some pirate Bucky!
Divider by @firefly-graphics
The sea crashes against the building, gulls and other sea birds’ cries filling the air. If Y/N turns her head in just the right way, she can even register the faint scent of salt in the air. Closing her eyes, she sighs softly. She longed to be out there, free and happy. Like the heroes and heroines in her stories, free to do whatever they want and travel wherever they want with no one to hold them back.
Instead, she’s trapped here, about to sign her life and her happiness away with nothing she can do about it.
The door opens, hitting against the wall with a loud bang. Y/N doesn’t even flinch anymore, already accustomed to her father’s intimidating presence and all the ways he makes it known. “Good, you’re ready.” He says, stepping in front of her and looking her up and down, his gaze scrutinising her for any imperfections. Her eyes drift beyond him, gazing at the sea and the horizon. “What are you looking at?” He snaps, turning his head to follow her gaze. “For god’s sake.” He mutters. “The sea again?”
“I was just looking, Father.” she responds, her voice soft.
“You’re always ‘just’ looking.” He lets out a derisive snort. “Just asking, just reading, just dreaming, just hoping for something else. When will you get your head out of the clouds, and stop with the disobedience?” he demands, his voice raising in volume.
“I don’t see the harm,” she retorts. "It's not as if-"
“I doubt Brock will like it either.” He huffs, ignoring her. The mention of her fiancé's name sends a shiver down her spine, and the bitter taste of bile rises in her throat.
Brock Rumlow, the son of her father’s late business partner, and heir to his fortune. It’s all the people in their town can talk about. How much sense it made to arrange a marriage between their offspring and continue the family business for generations to come, the unwillingness of the bride be damned.
Brock is just as cruel and cold-hearted as her father. He dismisses her books and business ideas with a condescending sneer, never supporting her goals or dreams, telling her not to trouble herself or ‘fill her pretty head with such matters’ like education or equality. And she’s lost count of the stories she’s heard about other women he’s been seeing, including whilst being with her. This has made her the subject of ridicule throughout society, mocking whispers of:
“Surely she must know?"
"I doubt it. Her father always says her head is in the clouds. I don't think she would know it was happening. even if she was looking right at it!"
"How mortifying! Can you even imagine it?" following her everywhere she goes.
Yet every time she brings this up, or tries to make her escape, she’s dragged back here. A dull ache pulses in her arm, prompting her to adjust her sleeve and hide the telltale fingerprint shaped bruises. Honestly, she’s given up hope of trying to flee, and resigned herself to being trapped here forever. Her chest tightens, her head fuzzy. And this time, she knows it’s not because her wedding outfit is far too tight and restrictive.
“He’s already told me as much, you know, and I agree,” her father continues. "Do you believe he actually enjoys being the subject of ridicule? Or that I do?! That all people say about you is how foolish you are to dream?!”
“You’re hardly a laughing stock, Father.” She says. “If anything, it’s me who is.” she murmurs.
“Do not back talk me.” He snaps. “Once you are married, Brock will ensure you become a true lady of society, one suitable for his position.” The thought makes Y/N shudder, and her eyes drop, her gaze now intently focused on the floor.
She’s always too much or too little of something.
Never just right.
Never good enough.
Tears threaten to spill from her eyes at the thought, and she bites her lip so hard she tastes blood, desperately trying to prevent her sobs from escaping.
“Smile, for god’s sake.” her father mutters, lifting her head to meet his. When she doesn’t respond, he leans closer, breath hot on her cheek. “Do you understand me?!”
"Y-Yes, Father," she stammers, her voice trembling slightly. A small, forced smile graces her lips as she nods.
“Good.” he looks her up and down once more. “After all, it is your wedding day. Looking so unhappy makes me look bad too.” He opens the door to the room, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer. “I’ll be back in five minutes. Don’t try another of your escape attempts.” he warns.
And with another slam of the door, Y/N is finally alone again.
As she and her father approach the end of the aisle, the pounding of Y/N’s heart is now so loud, she can hear it in her ears, intense enough to drown out the greetings Brock and her father give each other. Brock approaches, leering at her, and her stomach churns, her chest tightening with every breath. The priest moves forward, a warm smile gracing his lips.
If anybody knew she was doing this under duress (and given the looks she got as she walked down the aisle, she definitely suspected people did), nobody wanted to say a word to stop it. The truth of her reality truly hits her then, and her eyes wells up with tears once more.
But before the priest can even say a word, the doors swing open, and a figure saunters in. Immediately, every head in the room turns towards the door, and shocked, furious whispers fill the air.
“Is that?”
"I don't believe it! How dare he?!"
“It can’t be true! Surely not.”
“How dare he show his face here?” Y/N’s father huffs angrily, stepping closer. The crowd parts, and a hush falls as the figure emerges at the top of the aisle. Y/N gasps, recognising him immediately.
After all, his face appears on most of the town's wanted posters.
Living so close to the sea, Y/N has become well accustomed to tales of pirates plundering ships for their riches. After all, it’s all her father and Brock can talk about with their friends. ...Although it's more to boast that their ships are still safe, rather than concern for others.
But while many pirates are rumoured to sail in the waters beside her town, Bucky Barnes is the most feared, a legend whispered in hushed tones, full of stories of his brutality. Of treasures plundered ruthlessly, and of rivals, their ships reduced to burnt wrecks or sunk beneath the waves without a moment's hesitation.
And now, he’s at her wedding.
She didn’t even think it was possible, but somehow he looks far more intimidating in real life than on his wanted posters. He’s tall, and his metal arm gleams in the beams of sunlight peeking through the clouds and through the window. His brunette hair, slightly messy and tangled from the sea air, is pulled back partway into a bun, framing a stubbled face with patches of grey on his chin. Dressed head to toe in black, coat and all, a faint scent of smoke clings to him. Y/N also notices a thin, pale scar beside his left eye. However, Bucky pays her no mind, his piercing blue eyes focused intently on Brock and her father.
“Hello, gentlemen,” he says. His voice is deep and cold. “Forgive the intrusion. I would’ve waited until the priest asked for any objections…but my patience has run out.” He says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Y/N’s pulse quickens, and she looks to her father and Brock.
“What in god's name are you doing here? How dare you-“ her father sputters indignantly, but Bucky cuts him off.
“I’m here to collect my payment.”
“Payment? What in god’s name is he talking about?” she asks, speaking for the first time. Bucky’s eyes flicker to her, and he raises a brow, looking her up and down with a smirk. Y/N hates the feeling that hits her then. Because no matter the amount of blood that undoubtedly stains his hands, or his intimidating nature, Y/N can’t deny how drawn to him she is, or that she finds this blood-soaked, murderous pirate undeniably attractive.
“Oh, you didn’t tell your daughter, our beautiful bride to be, about our arrangement? My, how unfortunate.” Bucky chuckles, only adding to her irritation.
“Can someone please tell me what is going on here?” she demands angrily.
Even if him calling her beautiful did reignite her feelings towards him. If only slightly.
“Speaking of,” Bucky muses, ignoring her question. “I’m surprised I didn’t receive an invitation to this spectacle. I’m the one financing it, after all.”
“Excuse me?" Y/N frowns.
“Silence. This doesn’t concern her.” Brock hisses. Bucky scoffs.
“Oh, I think it does.” He responds, another smirk playing on his lips. That only makes Y/N even angrier. Once again, she’s not enough, not smart enough to know about her father and fiancé’s dealings, and it’s treated like a joke. “After all, does she know that you two,” he points to her father and Brock. “Gambled away her inheritance and dowry?”
“You did what?!” she gasps, outraged.
“My darling, why would you ever believe a pirate like him-” Brock says, a condescending sneer on his lips. He steps closer, and she flinches, instinctively moving away from him. Bucky’s eyes narrow, watching Brock’s intense glare, and how Y/N’s body trembles whenever he comes closer. A sense of indignation burns within his blood. He always knew Brock Rumlow and Lord Y/L/N were vile and unscrupulous men, but seeing Y/N, the innocent pawn in their schemes, for the first time ignites a deeper hatred within him.
And for the first time in a long time… Captain Bucky Barnes feels a sharp ache in his chest, and a wave of pity washing over him.
“I hate to be the one to tell you this, my lady, but your father, fiancé and I have a deal.” Bucky explains.
“Don’t you dare,” Brock sputters, his face contorted with anger. "It’s all lies, I have no dealings with-" Bucky cuts him off when he places his sword at his throat.
“Now. As I was saying…” Y/N watches Bucky, trying to gauge his feelings. Oddly enough, he seems… disappointed that he has to be the one to break the news to her, and angry that she had no idea. She can’t help how she feels her heart skip a beat at this revelation, that finally someone cares enough to let her know about something for once. But then, she remembers how complicit Bucky is in everything, and that feeling fades. “They met me in the pub after one of their failed gambling trips, recognised me instantly, of course,” Y/N rolls her eyes. Pompous asshole. “And we came to an agreement. I rob ships and places to keep them on top, and in return, I receive a cut and the freedom to keep doing so once the wedding goes through, thanks to your father’s connections.”
“Lies! It’s all lies!” Her father insists. “How dare you interrupt this day with such baseless accusations?!”
“Oh, shut up, you pathetic piece of shit.” Bucky snaps. Y/N gasps. No one had ever dared to speak to her father that way before. “I should’ve known trusting you was a terrible idea, but I refuse to let you escape the consequences. I’m here to collect my payment, and what better time to do it?” He steps back, lowering his sword from Brock’s neck. “And isn’t it time Y/N learned the truth about the two of you?”
“Is this true?” Y/N demands. Brock and her father exchange an uneasy glance, neither sure what to say. Y/N’s stomach churns, a mix of confusion, hurt, and anger brewing deep in her gut. And also… vindication. For so long, she knew Brock and her father were horrible people who cared about nothing but money and themselves, and finally she’s been proven right.
She just hates how she’s been an unwilling pawn in it the entire time. “You stole my dowry?! M-My inheritance?!” she spits, her voice trembling. “When were you going to tell me?”
With a dismissive scoff, Brock simply rolls his eyes. “We were hoping you wouldn’t find out like this, or at all.” He lets out a soft, amused chuckle. Like it’s all just a big joke. A surge of anger courses through her, and Y/N clenches her fists.
“You disgust me. All of you. You have no respect for others, least of all for me-” Brock approaches, his hand raised. Bucky rushes forward, coming to her defence.
But before either of them can react, Y/N is suddenly shoved forward, stumbling towards Bucky. He catches her immediately, pulling her close and holding her tightly against his chest. His body is warm, despite his coming in from the cold, and the cool metal of his arm against her skin. He smells like smoke, as she originally thought, but she can also detect a mixture of other scents. Of whisky, the salty sea air, of musk and sweat.
He smells…rather intriguing, actually.
But just as quickly as she’s in his arms, burying his nose into his chest, Bucky gently pushes her back again. His eyes narrow once more as they look over her, and for a split second he registers something, his gaze softening.
But it’s gone before she can dwell on it, so quickly she wonders if she imagined it. If she hoped for a split second that this man had a heart, and that anyone cared about her enough to fight for her.
But of course not.
“Take her.” Brock smirks. “There’s your payment.”
“You repulsive, pathetic man.” Y/N snaps. “How dare you use me like this?!” Bucky lets out a noise, something sounding like a chuckle.
“Very well.” Bucky nods.
“Excuse me?” Y/N demands, her eyes flashing with anger. “Don’t I get a say in this?” But Bucky is already leading her toward the door. “Father?!” she gasps, horrified and in disbelief.
Her father just stands there, watching the scene unfold without a word.
She struggles in Bucky’s arms, his grasp tightening. Nobody steps forward to help her, terrified to even approach the legendary, ruthless captain.
“Stop struggling.” Bucky hisses. He kicks open the door, and the pair spill into the chill air.
“No!” she snaps, squirming and kicking. “How dare you?! How dare possessive men like you think you have any claim over me, or t-that my worth is tied to my wealth or my body?! You ruined my life!”
“I can assure you, I’ve done no such thing.” he says, his voice low, his patience clearly waning.
“You’re literally kidnapping me right now, you-”
Bucky doesn’t answer, continuing to pull her through the streets towards the docks, ensuring they’re kept out of sight. His lack of response, and his refusal to admit or acknowledge what he’s doing only makes her angrier, and her escape attempt more determined. But Bucky is strong, his metal arm holding her back.
“Will you stop?!” is all he says once they’re aboard the ship. She’s about to bite back, tell him he has no right to be so angry at her, that she is the one who deserves to be angry. But Bucky’s eyes move away from her face, landing on something else. His jaw clenches, and his eyes narrow, the icy blue sparkle darkening. “Y/N. Who did this to you?” he demands.
“W-What?” she frowns, blinking in confusion. She follows Bucky’s gaze. When she sees what she’s looking at, her blood runs cold. In the scuffle, her dress sleeve must’ve rolled up, exposing the bruises on her arm.
“Y/N.” Bucky repeats. “Who did this to you?” She stays silent. Because what is there to say? Tell the pirate Captain who just kidnapped her that yes, her fiancé is violent? That her father knows and turns a blind eye, because he’s just as bad? Bucky steps closer, and she flinches, her heart pounding so hard it could break out of her chest.
The second she flinches, Bucky stops. “Don’t worry. I promise I won’t hurt you.” he says, his voice warmer, softer. She still watches him, terrified, like prey backed into a corner.
Why does this kidnapping feel like the first time someone has ever cared for her before?
He raises his human hand. “May I?”
He doesn’t move until she nods tentatively, and even then he continues to move slowly, gently dabbing her under eyes with his handkerchief. His skin brushes against her slightly, and it tingles. When Bucky sees what’s there, he tenses. The makeup did a good job of covering it before the ceremony, but the unmistakable remnants of a black eye still linger. “Was it Brock?” he asks, and she nods. “And the bruises?” Another nod. “Sick bastard.” he huffs.
“You worked with him.” She snaps back, her voice sharp.
“I know,” he nods. “But I had no other choice. It was for my crew and I’s survival. It was years ago, we were desperate for money.”
“You still did it.” He sighs, nodding.
“You’re right. If I’d have known he was doing this to you, though….” his metal arm clenches, whirring. “There’s no excuse for people who hurt the innocent.” Y/N scoffs, rolling her eyes.
“Please don’t act like you’re the hero in this story.” Bucky raises a brow. “You don’t get the reputation of being a bloodthirsty, murderous pirate without good reason.”
“I’m a pirate, Y/N. I’m not a monster.” he shakes his head. “That was merely for show back there, and the stories about me are greatly exaggerated.” When she doesn’t respond, he sighs. “I understand your reservations, but you can trust me. I swear I won’t hurt you. I steal, yes. But it’s purely for survival. And my crew and I only hurt people who deserve it.” his voice lowers, and his eyes narrow again. "And your fiancé," he spits. "Definitely deserves it."
Honestly, Y/N doesn’t know what to think. He seems honest, his tone sincere. And judging by the way his facial expression changed when he saw how Brock looked at her and the bruises, he seems to genuinely care about her.
But he still kidnapped her. He still conspired with her father and Brock.
“Why did you take me?” she asks, her voice quiet. “Clearly not for ransom, considering they stole all my-” Her voice breaks, and tears begin to fall. Bucky glances around, checking members of his crew aren't close enough to see her tears, and gently ushers her into his quarters. He offers her a whisky bottle, the scent of the rich liquor making her head spin. She shakes her head, and Bucky takes a swig. “Why are you doing this to me?” she manages to ask through her tears. “Why are you being so nice to me after you just kidnapped me?”
“Have a seat.” He offers, sitting at his desk. Sniffling and too exhausted and frightened to argue back, Y/N sits, sinking into the plush velvet of the chair. “I took you because I saw you.” When she frowns, he continues. “Well, I saw how frightened you were, and how you flinched whenever Brock or your father came near you. And I just knew that leaving you with them wasn't an option.”
“So you…kidnapped me?”
“What else was I supposed to do?” He raises a brow. He’s right, she knows he is. At the very least, she is free from Brock and her father now. She takes a deep breath, feeling as if an immense weight has been lifted from her.
"That's… very kind of you," she murmurs, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Thank you.” At the sight of her smile, Bucky smiles too.
“No need to thank me.” Immediately, Y/N’s heart rate picks up again, but not with fear this time.
He really is beautiful when he smiles.
Oh god, why is she thinking this way about her kidnapper?
Her head turns to the window, staring out at the sea as it crashes against the ship. Bucky chuckles softly. “You love the sea?”
“I do. I used to dream of being swept away to uncharted lands by the sea, somewhere far away from Brock and my father. They always told me to stop dreaming, that it was unbecoming of a lady of my stature, but it didn’t stop me.” she explains. Bucky listens intently, completely captivated. “I planned so many escape routes, but they caught me each time.” She sighs. “But I kept dreaming, hoping that one day I’d be free…that one day I’d be sailing on the sea.” And now, here she is, doing just that…albeit not the way she expected.
Seeing the way she looks at the sea, Bucky can’t help but smile. It reminds him of himself as a young kid, just trying to find his place in the world. Still trying to dream. “I love it too.” he chuckles. “Watching the sun rise and set over the horizon, seeing the vast, open sky and all the stars….” He sighs fondly. “There’s nothing like it.”
“Really? I haven’t seen the night sky properly in a long time.”
“I think you’ll love it. Seeing the night sky…it gives me so much peace, and….” he bites his lip slightly, running a hand through his brunette waves. “And I think you could use something like that.” he admits.
“Peace? I haven’t felt that in a very long time.” Bucky’s gaze moves to the floor, his stomach churning as he finds himself unable to meet Y/N’s gaze. Unable to confront what he’s done. He opens his mouth to say something, anything…but then stops, shaking his head. Because what could he possibly say? Apologise for playing a part in destroying her life? For kidnapping her? Sure, it was for her own safety, but he’s not a saint either. She’s right, he’s no hero.
Before today, he’s never felt like this before, so guilty, so…ashamed. Never had such a desire to be good, to be better.
And he’s definitely never felt so inexplicably drawn to his prisoner before.
But before she can ask what he was going to say, he clears his throat.
“I have a proposition for you.” he offers, and she raises a brow. “You can stay on my ship and have some time to rest and eat, and then you can either stay on board with us with our protection, or we can drop you off on another continent, far away from your father and Brock, with enough funds to get by.”
“Do I have to choose now?”
“Not at all. Take all the time you need.”
“You’d really do that for me?” She asks, still reeling from the fact that a pirate captain is the first and only person in a long time to actually care about her and her safety. Bucky nods. “And how should I know I can trust you?”
“You can’t.” He admits. “But you don't really have any other alternatives, do you? I’m certainly not going to return you to them, or leave you to fend for yourselves with all the other pirates around.” he huffs. Y/N decides not to ask if the other pirates are worse than Bucky and his crew. The look on his face left no doubt that they were.
He’s right, she knows he is. She really doesn’t have a choice here. And besides, soon she can get out of here, and get the freedom she always wanted. She just has to endure some time with this…incredibly intriguing pirate captain. Y/N nods, and Bucky’s grin grows wider.
“Well, Y/N, welcome aboard.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
an unexpected proposition - pirate!bucky barnes x lady!reader
Plot: When the notorious pirate Captain Bucky Barnes crashes her wedding, Y/N soon finds herself swept up in his life... and the unexpected proposition he makes her. Pairing: Pirate!Bucky Barnes x Lady!Reader Warnings: Forced marriage, abuse and violence, injuries (specifically bruising and a black eye), kidnapping, and the tiniest mention of blood, alcohol and Bucky's sword. Nothing too graphic, but please use your own discretion. Also period typical sexism and misogyny, and the usual pirate triggers. As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: Sorry this took me forever, I was dragged through June kicking and screaming, lol. But I love me some pirate Bucky!
Divider by @firefly-graphics
The sea crashes against the building, gulls and other sea birds’ cries filling the air. If Y/N turns her head in just the right way, she can even register the faint scent of salt in the air. Closing her eyes, she sighs softly. She longed to be out there, free and happy. Like the heroes and heroines in her stories, free to do whatever they want and travel wherever they want with no one to hold them back.
Instead, she’s trapped here, about to sign her life and her happiness away with nothing she can do about it.
The door opens, hitting against the wall with a loud bang. Y/N doesn’t even flinch anymore, already accustomed to her father’s intimidating presence and all the ways he makes it known. “Good, you’re ready.” He says, stepping in front of her and looking her up and down, his gaze scrutinising her for any imperfections. Her eyes drift beyond him, gazing at the sea and the horizon. “What are you looking at?” He snaps, turning his head to follow her gaze. “For god’s sake.” He mutters. “The sea again?”
“I was just looking, Father.” she responds, her voice soft.
“You’re always ‘just’ looking.” He lets out a derisive snort. “Just asking, just reading, just dreaming, just hoping for something else. When will you get your head out of the clouds, and stop with the disobedience?” he demands, his voice raising in volume.
“I don’t see the harm,” she retorts. "It's not as if-"
“I doubt Brock will like it either.” He huffs, ignoring her. The mention of her fiancé's name sends a shiver down her spine, and the bitter taste of bile rises in her throat.
Brock Rumlow, the son of her father’s late business partner, and heir to his fortune. It’s all the people in their town can talk about. How much sense it made to arrange a marriage between their offspring and continue the family business for generations to come, the unwillingness of the bride be damned.
Brock is just as cruel and cold-hearted as her father. He dismisses her books and business ideas with a condescending sneer, never supporting her goals or dreams, telling her not to trouble herself or ‘fill her pretty head with such matters’ like education or equality. And she’s lost count of the stories she’s heard about other women he’s been seeing, including whilst being with her. This has made her the subject of ridicule throughout society, mocking whispers of:
“Surely she must know?"
"I doubt it. Her father always says her head is in the clouds. I don't think she would know it was happening. even if she was looking right at it!"
"How mortifying! Can you even imagine it?" following her everywhere she goes.
Yet every time she brings this up, or tries to make her escape, she’s dragged back here. A dull ache pulses in her arm, prompting her to adjust her sleeve and hide the telltale fingerprint shaped bruises. Honestly, she’s given up hope of trying to flee, and resigned herself to being trapped here forever. Her chest tightens, her head fuzzy. And this time, she knows it’s not because her wedding outfit is far too tight and restrictive.
“He’s already told me as much, you know, and I agree,” her father continues. "Do you believe he actually enjoys being the subject of ridicule? Or that I do?! That all people say about you is how foolish you are to dream?!”
“You’re hardly a laughing stock, Father.” She says. “If anything, it’s me who is.” she murmurs.
“Do not back talk me.” He snaps. “Once you are married, Brock will ensure you become a true lady of society, one suitable for his position.” The thought makes Y/N shudder, and her eyes drop, her gaze now intently focused on the floor.
She’s always too much or too little of something.
Never just right.
Never good enough.
Tears threaten to spill from her eyes at the thought, and she bites her lip so hard she tastes blood, desperately trying to prevent her sobs from escaping.
“Smile, for god’s sake.” her father mutters, lifting her head to meet his. When she doesn’t respond, he leans closer, breath hot on her cheek. “Do you understand me?!”
"Y-Yes, Father," she stammers, her voice trembling slightly. A small, forced smile graces her lips as she nods.
“Good.” he looks her up and down once more. “After all, it is your wedding day. Looking so unhappy makes me look bad too.” He opens the door to the room, his eyes lingering on her for a moment longer. “I’ll be back in five minutes. Don’t try another of your escape attempts.” he warns.
And with another slam of the door, Y/N is finally alone again.
As she and her father approach the end of the aisle, the pounding of Y/N’s heart is now so loud, she can hear it in her ears, intense enough to drown out the greetings Brock and her father give each other. Brock approaches, leering at her, and her stomach churns, her chest tightening with every breath. The priest moves forward, a warm smile gracing his lips.
If anybody knew she was doing this under duress (and given the looks she got as she walked down the aisle, she definitely suspected people did), nobody wanted to say a word to stop it. The truth of her reality truly hits her then, and her eyes wells up with tears once more.
But before the priest can even say a word, the doors swing open, and a figure saunters in. Immediately, every head in the room turns towards the door, and shocked, furious whispers fill the air.
“Is that?”
"I don't believe it! How dare he?!"
“It can’t be true! Surely not.”
“How dare he show his face here?” Y/N’s father huffs angrily, stepping closer. The crowd parts, and a hush falls as the figure emerges at the top of the aisle. Y/N gasps, recognising him immediately.
After all, his face appears on most of the town's wanted posters.
Living so close to the sea, Y/N has become well accustomed to tales of pirates plundering ships for their riches. After all, it’s all her father and Brock can talk about with their friends. ...Although it's more to boast that their ships are still safe, rather than concern for others.
But while many pirates are rumoured to sail in the waters beside her town, Bucky Barnes is the most feared, a legend whispered in hushed tones, full of stories of his brutality. Of treasures plundered ruthlessly, and of rivals, their ships reduced to burnt wrecks or sunk beneath the waves without a moment's hesitation.
And now, he’s at her wedding.
She didn’t even think it was possible, but somehow he looks far more intimidating in real life than on his wanted posters. He’s tall, and his metal arm gleams in the beams of sunlight peeking through the clouds and through the window. His brunette hair, slightly messy and tangled from the sea air, is pulled back partway into a bun, framing a stubbled face with patches of grey on his chin. Dressed head to toe in black, coat and all, a faint scent of smoke clings to him. Y/N also notices a thin, pale scar beside his left eye. However, Bucky pays her no mind, his piercing blue eyes focused intently on Brock and her father.
“Hello, gentlemen,” he says. His voice is deep and cold. “Forgive the intrusion. I would’ve waited until the priest asked for any objections…but my patience has run out.” He says, his voice dripping with sarcasm. Y/N’s pulse quickens, and she looks to her father and Brock.
“What in god's name are you doing here? How dare you-“ her father sputters indignantly, but Bucky cuts him off.
“I’m here to collect my payment.”
“Payment? What in god’s name is he talking about?” she asks, speaking for the first time. Bucky’s eyes flicker to her, and he raises a brow, looking her up and down with a smirk. Y/N hates the feeling that hits her then. Because no matter the amount of blood that undoubtedly stains his hands, or his intimidating nature, Y/N can’t deny how drawn to him she is, or that she finds this blood-soaked, murderous pirate undeniably attractive.
“Oh, you didn’t tell your daughter, our beautiful bride to be, about our arrangement? My, how unfortunate.” Bucky chuckles, only adding to her irritation.
“Can someone please tell me what is going on here?” she demands angrily.
Even if him calling her beautiful did reignite her feelings towards him. If only slightly.
“Speaking of,” Bucky muses, ignoring her question. “I’m surprised I didn’t receive an invitation to this spectacle. I’m the one financing it, after all.”
“Excuse me?" Y/N frowns.
“Silence. This doesn’t concern her.” Brock hisses. Bucky scoffs.
“Oh, I think it does.” He responds, another smirk playing on his lips. That only makes Y/N even angrier. Once again, she’s not enough, not smart enough to know about her father and fiancé’s dealings, and it’s treated like a joke. “After all, does she know that you two,” he points to her father and Brock. “Gambled away her inheritance and dowry?”
“You did what?!” she gasps, outraged.
“My darling, why would you ever believe a pirate like him-” Brock says, a condescending sneer on his lips. He steps closer, and she flinches, instinctively moving away from him. Bucky’s eyes narrow, watching Brock’s intense glare, and how Y/N’s body trembles whenever he comes closer. A sense of indignation burns within his blood. He always knew Brock Rumlow and Lord Y/L/N were vile and unscrupulous men, but seeing Y/N, the innocent pawn in their schemes, for the first time ignites a deeper hatred within him.
And for the first time in a long time… Captain Bucky Barnes feels a sharp ache in his chest, and a wave of pity washing over him.
“I hate to be the one to tell you this, my lady, but your father, fiancé and I have a deal.” Bucky explains.
“Don’t you dare,” Brock sputters, his face contorted with anger. "It’s all lies, I have no dealings with-" Bucky cuts him off when he places his sword at his throat.
“Now. As I was saying…” Y/N watches Bucky, trying to gauge his feelings. Oddly enough, he seems… disappointed that he has to be the one to break the news to her, and angry that she had no idea. She can’t help how she feels her heart skip a beat at this revelation, that finally someone cares enough to let her know about something for once. But then, she remembers how complicit Bucky is in everything, and that feeling fades. “They met me in the pub after one of their failed gambling trips, recognised me instantly, of course,” Y/N rolls her eyes. Pompous asshole. “And we came to an agreement. I rob ships and places to keep them on top, and in return, I receive a cut and the freedom to keep doing so once the wedding goes through, thanks to your father’s connections.”
“Lies! It’s all lies!” Her father insists. “How dare you interrupt this day with such baseless accusations?!”
“Oh, shut up, you pathetic piece of shit.” Bucky snaps. Y/N gasps. No one had ever dared to speak to her father that way before. “I should’ve known trusting you was a terrible idea, but I refuse to let you escape the consequences. I’m here to collect my payment, and what better time to do it?” He steps back, lowering his sword from Brock’s neck. “And isn’t it time Y/N learned the truth about the two of you?”
“Is this true?” Y/N demands. Brock and her father exchange an uneasy glance, neither sure what to say. Y/N’s stomach churns, a mix of confusion, hurt, and anger brewing deep in her gut. And also… vindication. For so long, she knew Brock and her father were horrible people who cared about nothing but money and themselves, and finally she’s been proven right.
She just hates how she’s been an unwilling pawn in it the entire time. “You stole my dowry?! M-My inheritance?!” she spits, her voice trembling. “When were you going to tell me?”
With a dismissive scoff, Brock simply rolls his eyes. “We were hoping you wouldn’t find out like this, or at all.” He lets out a soft, amused chuckle. Like it’s all just a big joke. A surge of anger courses through her, and Y/N clenches her fists.
“You disgust me. All of you. You have no respect for others, least of all for me-” Brock approaches, his hand raised. Bucky rushes forward, coming to her defence.
But before either of them can react, Y/N is suddenly shoved forward, stumbling towards Bucky. He catches her immediately, pulling her close and holding her tightly against his chest. His body is warm, despite his coming in from the cold, and the cool metal of his arm against her skin. He smells like smoke, as she originally thought, but she can also detect a mixture of other scents. Of whisky, the salty sea air, of musk and sweat.
He smells…rather intriguing, actually.
But just as quickly as she’s in his arms, burying his nose into his chest, Bucky gently pushes her back again. His eyes narrow once more as they look over her, and for a split second he registers something, his gaze softening.
But it’s gone before she can dwell on it, so quickly she wonders if she imagined it. If she hoped for a split second that this man had a heart, and that anyone cared about her enough to fight for her.
But of course not.
“Take her.” Brock smirks. “There’s your payment.”
“You repulsive, pathetic man.” Y/N snaps. “How dare you use me like this?!” Bucky lets out a noise, something sounding like a chuckle.
“Very well.” Bucky nods.
“Excuse me?” Y/N demands, her eyes flashing with anger. “Don’t I get a say in this?” But Bucky is already leading her toward the door. “Father?!” she gasps, horrified and in disbelief.
Her father just stands there, watching the scene unfold without a word.
She struggles in Bucky’s arms, his grasp tightening. Nobody steps forward to help her, terrified to even approach the legendary, ruthless captain.
“Stop struggling.” Bucky hisses. He kicks open the door, and the pair spill into the chill air.
“No!” she snaps, squirming and kicking. “How dare you?! How dare possessive men like you think you have any claim over me, or t-that my worth is tied to my wealth or my body?! You ruined my life!”
“I can assure you, I’ve done no such thing.” he says, his voice low, his patience clearly waning.
“You’re literally kidnapping me right now, you-”
Bucky doesn’t answer, continuing to pull her through the streets towards the docks, ensuring they’re kept out of sight. His lack of response, and his refusal to admit or acknowledge what he’s doing only makes her angrier, and her escape attempt more determined. But Bucky is strong, his metal arm holding her back.
“Will you stop?!” is all he says once they’re aboard the ship. She’s about to bite back, tell him he has no right to be so angry at her, that she is the one who deserves to be angry. But Bucky’s eyes move away from her face, landing on something else. His jaw clenches, and his eyes narrow, the icy blue sparkle darkening. “Y/N. Who did this to you?” he demands.
“W-What?” she frowns, blinking in confusion. She follows Bucky’s gaze. When she sees what she’s looking at, her blood runs cold. In the scuffle, her dress sleeve must’ve rolled up, exposing the bruises on her arm.
“Y/N.” Bucky repeats. “Who did this to you?” She stays silent. Because what is there to say? Tell the pirate Captain who just kidnapped her that yes, her fiancé is violent? That her father knows and turns a blind eye, because he’s just as bad? Bucky steps closer, and she flinches, her heart pounding so hard it could break out of her chest.
The second she flinches, Bucky stops. “Don’t worry. I promise I won’t hurt you.” he says, his voice warmer, softer. She still watches him, terrified, like prey backed into a corner.
Why does this kidnapping feel like the first time someone has ever cared for her before?
He raises his human hand. “May I?”
He doesn’t move until she nods tentatively, and even then he continues to move slowly, gently dabbing her under eyes with his handkerchief. His skin brushes against her slightly, and it tingles. When Bucky sees what’s there, he tenses. The makeup did a good job of covering it before the ceremony, but the unmistakable remnants of a black eye still linger. “Was it Brock?” he asks, and she nods. “And the bruises?” Another nod. “Sick bastard.” he huffs.
“You worked with him.” She snaps back, her voice sharp.
“I know,” he nods. “But I had no other choice. It was for my crew and I’s survival. It was years ago, we were desperate for money.”
“You still did it.” He sighs, nodding.
“You’re right. If I’d have known he was doing this to you, though….” his metal arm clenches, whirring. “There’s no excuse for people who hurt the innocent.” Y/N scoffs, rolling her eyes.
“Please don’t act like you’re the hero in this story.” Bucky raises a brow. “You don’t get the reputation of being a bloodthirsty, murderous pirate without good reason.”
“I’m a pirate, Y/N. I’m not a monster.” he shakes his head. “That was merely for show back there, and the stories about me are greatly exaggerated.” When she doesn’t respond, he sighs. “I understand your reservations, but you can trust me. I swear I won’t hurt you. I steal, yes. But it’s purely for survival. And my crew and I only hurt people who deserve it.” his voice lowers, and his eyes narrow again. "And your fiancé," he spits. "Definitely deserves it."
Honestly, Y/N doesn’t know what to think. He seems honest, his tone sincere. And judging by the way his facial expression changed when he saw how Brock looked at her and the bruises, he seems to genuinely care about her.
But he still kidnapped her. He still conspired with her father and Brock.
“Why did you take me?” she asks, her voice quiet. “Clearly not for ransom, considering they stole all my-” Her voice breaks, and tears begin to fall. Bucky glances around, checking members of his crew aren't close enough to see her tears, and gently ushers her into his quarters. He offers her a whisky bottle, the scent of the rich liquor making her head spin. She shakes her head, and Bucky takes a swig. “Why are you doing this to me?” she manages to ask through her tears. “Why are you being so nice to me after you just kidnapped me?”
“Have a seat.” He offers, sitting at his desk. Sniffling and too exhausted and frightened to argue back, Y/N sits, sinking into the plush velvet of the chair. “I took you because I saw you.” When she frowns, he continues. “Well, I saw how frightened you were, and how you flinched whenever Brock or your father came near you. And I just knew that leaving you with them wasn't an option.”
“So you…kidnapped me?”
“What else was I supposed to do?” He raises a brow. He’s right, she knows he is. At the very least, she is free from Brock and her father now. She takes a deep breath, feeling as if an immense weight has been lifted from her.
"That's… very kind of you," she murmurs, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Thank you.” At the sight of her smile, Bucky smiles too.
“No need to thank me.” Immediately, Y/N’s heart rate picks up again, but not with fear this time.
He really is beautiful when he smiles.
Oh god, why is she thinking this way about her kidnapper?
Her head turns to the window, staring out at the sea as it crashes against the ship. Bucky chuckles softly. “You love the sea?”
“I do. I used to dream of being swept away to uncharted lands by the sea, somewhere far away from Brock and my father. They always told me to stop dreaming, that it was unbecoming of a lady of my stature, but it didn’t stop me.” she explains. Bucky listens intently, completely captivated. “I planned so many escape routes, but they caught me each time.” She sighs. “But I kept dreaming, hoping that one day I’d be free…that one day I’d be sailing on the sea.” And now, here she is, doing just that…albeit not the way she expected.
Seeing the way she looks at the sea, Bucky can’t help but smile. It reminds him of himself as a young kid, just trying to find his place in the world. Still trying to dream. “I love it too.” he chuckles. “Watching the sun rise and set over the horizon, seeing the vast, open sky and all the stars….” He sighs fondly. “There’s nothing like it.”
“Really? I haven’t seen the night sky properly in a long time.”
“I think you’ll love it. Seeing the night sky…it gives me so much peace, and….” he bites his lip slightly, running a hand through his brunette waves. “And I think you could use something like that.” he admits.
“Peace? I haven’t felt that in a very long time.” Bucky’s gaze moves to the floor, his stomach churning as he finds himself unable to meet Y/N’s gaze. Unable to confront what he’s done. He opens his mouth to say something, anything…but then stops, shaking his head. Because what could he possibly say? Apologise for playing a part in destroying her life? For kidnapping her? Sure, it was for her own safety, but he’s not a saint either. She’s right, he’s no hero.
Before today, he’s never felt like this before, so guilty, so…ashamed. Never had such a desire to be good, to be better.
And he’s definitely never felt so inexplicably drawn to his prisoner before.
But before she can ask what he was going to say, he clears his throat.
“I have a proposition for you.” he offers, and she raises a brow. “You can stay on my ship and have some time to rest and eat, and then you can either stay on board with us with our protection, or we can drop you off on another continent, far away from your father and Brock, with enough funds to get by.”
“Do I have to choose now?”
“Not at all. Take all the time you need.”
“You’d really do that for me?” She asks, still reeling from the fact that a pirate captain is the first and only person in a long time to actually care about her and her safety. Bucky nods. “And how should I know I can trust you?”
“You can’t.” He admits. “But you don't really have any other alternatives, do you? I’m certainly not going to return you to them, or leave you to fend for yourselves with all the other pirates around.” he huffs. Y/N decides not to ask if the other pirates are worse than Bucky and his crew. The look on his face left no doubt that they were.
He’s right, she knows he is. She really doesn’t have a choice here. And besides, soon she can get out of here, and get the freedom she always wanted. She just has to endure some time with this…incredibly intriguing pirate captain. Y/N nods, and Bucky’s grin grows wider.
“Well, Y/N, welcome aboard.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
Summer of AUs
I was thinking about all the ideas I have (which are, shockingly, a LOT), and how most of them are AUs. So I thought why not just write a bunch of AUs?!
So far I have:
Pirate
Biker
Firefighters - both Bucky and Sam aaaaand maaaaaaybe Steve but idk! was thinking of a little series of firefighting boys
Knight
Bandit - technically 2, cause I've been trying to finish my Bucky Robin Hood/Bandit AU, and I have a separate idea for the bandit trope/idea too
I also had a fallen angel idea but idk!
finding you - charlie cale x luca clark
Plot: Charlie wakes up alone. Luca tries to find her. Pairing: Charlie Cale x Luca Clark Warnings: Mentions of death and death threats, kidnapping/being tied up and gagged, weapons - specifically guns and knives, drugging and being drugged, pain and mild violence, lack of sleep, nausea and Luca and Charlie's self esteem issues/self hatred (SOMEONE GIVE THEM A BREAK!!). As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: This is part two to "Love is a Condition of the Head" so please read that first if you haven't already! Sorry it took me ages to update, I've been super busy, and have also been recovering from a cold too...but I did watch some of Poker Face when I was ill, and it gave me some ideas... but here we go! Also this is like the closest thing to a happy ending I've given Charluca so far, which is really saying something so...yay!
Divider by my bestie @inbloomwriting
Sunlight streams through the window, illuminating the room in a soft, golden glow. Birds chirp outside, creating a peaceful melody, and a chill breeze blows through the leaves. It’s quiet, peaceful. Inside, Charlie sits on a chair, fast asleep. Rope binds her to the chair, and her head lolls forward. Sleep and Charlie Cale have… a tumultuous relationship, to say the least. She slept well as a child, but as she grew up, her long shifts at the casino took a toll on her mentally, physically...and especially her sleep. While on the run, sleep was a luxury she couldn’t afford, her senses always on high alert, preparing for danger.
But in the days she spent with Luca, those short, yet happy days… she was okay.
She was incredible, actually. She was safe. She felt loved. Luca protected her.
And now, it’s all over.
“Morning, sleepyhead.” Charlie bolts awake at the voice, her eyes snapping open. “Wondered how long it’d take you to wake up. I’ve just been sitting here watching you drool all over yourself.” Alex chuckles, twirling a knife between her fingers, the blade glinting in the light.
Charlie groans, her body throbbing with a dull ache as she slowly wakes up. A wave of nausea and dizziness washes over her, the world still spinning despite her attempts to blink it away.
“Hey. Look at me when I’m talking to you.” Alex snaps, clicking her fingers in front of Charlie’s face. Memories come back then, albeit hazy. A bag over her head, a sharp sting at her neck. Then nothing.
“Luca.” Charlie murmurs, her voice panicked. “W-Where’s Luca…?” Her heart pounds against her ribs, and she writhes in the chair, grunting as she strains against her bindings, desperately trying to free herself. But it makes no difference. Charlie slumps against the back of the chair, tears welling in her eyes as the aching sense of hopelessness floods throughout her blood. She fights the urge to cry, determined not to let Alex witness her pain.
But it’s too late.
“Aw.” Alex pouts mockingly, her expression soon growing into a smirk. “You don’t remember, do you? I must’ve drugged you pretty strongly. But you have been out for a couple of days.” she laughs proudly, grinning triumphantly. “You broke his heart, remember? So…he’s probably not coming for you.”
“But I don’t love you.” All at once, everything comes rushing back, completely overwhelming her. The pain, the lies… and the heartbreak, the anguish, on Luca’s face. Poor, lovesick Luca’s face. Charlie’s gut twists. She was doing this to save him, and to keep him safe. That’s what matters.
But she still feels like the worst person in the entire world.
“That’s not what I’m interested in right now, though. I went through your pockets when you were asleep, and just look what I found.” Alex chuckles, plunging her knife into the armrest of the chair between Charlie’s fingers, making Charlie jump and cry out:
“Jesus-” Charlie looks up, seeing an all too familiar device dangling from Alex’s grip.
Her panic alarm. Charlie’s chest tightens, sucking all the air out of her lungs. "No. No, no, no."
“How sweet.” Alex chuckles. “Your boyfriend really thought he could save you, huh?”
“You said I broke his heart. And he’s not my-”
“Bullshit.” She scoffs. “I saw the way he looks at you, Charlie. That man is whipped for you. So romantic, isn’t it? Just like a fairytale, with you as the damsel in distress.” Alex pauses, chuckling. “Or would you prefer I call you Lady Galahad?” Alex smirks. Charlie’s blood runs cold, hardening to ice in her veins.
More memories hit her then, sudden and intense, persisting despite her attempts to stop them.
Natalie. The face she sees every time she wakes up, and every time she goes to sleep. The first person she couldn’t save, but the one she wanted to, so, so badly. The failure that’s haunted her ever since. An all too familiar hollow ache, the stinging feeling of failure, drops into her gut.
“Don’t you ever call me that name again.” she spits, leaning forward despite the pain of the rope digging into her skin. Alex simply laughs.
“Galahad. The most gallant and perfect of the knights.” She continues, grabbing Charlie's shoulder and yanking her back into the chair. “Doesn’t really fit you though, does it, Charlie?" she chuckles, digging her fingers deeper into Charlie’s shoulder. “I mean, you’re a fucking mess.”
“Yeah, well, being hunted by a serial killer will do that to you.” Charlie snaps. Alex continues, ignoring her.
“That's what this has all been for, right? Trying to help people, save them. To bring justice against people like me. All because you couldn’t keep your best friend alive. Because you failed.”
That fills Charlie with even more rage. Not because she doesn’t think she’s a failure, no, Charlie knows she is.
It’s because only Charlie Cale gets to call herself a fucking failure.
“Keep her name out of your fucking mouth-“ Charlie orders, her voice breaking. She thrashes against her restraints, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she strains to free herself and reach Alex.
“And then you failed at protecting Beatrix.”
“That was your fault, actually.” Alex shrugs, grinning. Charlie’s urge to wipe that grin off her face intensifies.
“They say bad things come in threes, don’t they? So, let’s see if you're unlucky this time too, and invite Luca to join us.” Alex chuckles, holding the panic alarm aloft, out of Charlie’s reach.
“Y-You really think that’s a good idea?” Charlie stammers, trying to hide her fear. “He’ll bring all his agent friends down here to stop you too. He’s smart, he’ll know this is a trap.”
Alex laughs, rolling her eyes. “Oh, please. He’s not that smart. He couldn’t even figure out who I was. And I’ve seen how that man looks at you. He would do absolutely anything to find you, Charlie. And he’s so stupidly lovesick, and so determined, he’d do it all by himself, which is exactly what I need.”
She’s right. Charlie knows she is. Luca has always wanted to be the hero, even when it could put him at risk. He would absolutely come for her alone. And that’s because he’s such a good person, far better than Charlie could ever be. That doesn’t make him stupid. It makes him brave.
Luca told her once that the only reason he got his promotion was because of her, and that she’s the smartest one out of them both. Charlie laughed it off, even though she knew it was wrong. Luca Clark is an incredible agent, much better than he ever gives himself credit for. And god, Charlie wishes Luca could see himself the way she sees him, and realise just how smart, compassionate and committed he is.
He’s already saved her ass before.
Now, it's up to Charlie to save his.
Alex’s finger hovers over the button, and Charlie’s eyes widen.
“No. No.” Charlie gasps, her stomach lurching. Instantly, her anger disappears, replaced by pure, primal fear. “He has nothing to do with this, Alex, please!”
“Bullshit. He has everything to do with this.” Alex tilts her head, watching Charlie struggle and panic. “It’s hilarious seeing you panic like this, you know? I thought Charlie Cale only ever wanted to be alone, and only cared about herself.” Charlie grunts and swears, straining and trying with all her might to lean forward and snatch the alarm right out of Alex’s hand. The rope strains against her, burning as it digs into her skin and causing her to swear, but Charlie pushes through it.
“Alex, please.” Charlie begs, tears streaming down her face. “Why don’t you just kill me instead, get it over with. I’m the one you want, it’s always been me! Just-“
“Oh, I am going to kill you.” She chuckles. “But I’m going to kill him first, and make you watch.”
And with that, she presses the button on the panic alarm.
Meanwhile, Luca is sitting in his car by the side of the road. His head is in his hands, and he groans as he runs his fingers through his hair. His half-finished coffee and fast-food breakfast sit beside him, and he tiredly rubs his eyes. He’s been desperately searching for Charlie ever since she left, with little success… or sleep. Clearly, she wants to be hidden, and considering everything that’s been going on, that’s understandable.
Yet… Luca can’t forget the look on her face when she told him she never wanted to see him again. He’s replayed the scene at least a thousand times since then, trying to decipher every word she said, every shift in her expression, and try as he might, he can’t stop thinking about what that could mean. Or can't stop thinking about the one possibility he doesn't want to confront.
That maybe she wasn’t in danger, and that he was just seeing what he wanted to see. Maybe whatever they had is gone, or it wasn’t even there at all.
Maybe Charlie truly doesn’t want to be found.
Or at least… not by Luca.
But just as he’s about to consider calling it quits, his phone beeps loudly. Immediately, he’s wide awake, grabbing his phone and checking the alert. Charlie’s panic alarm has been activated. His heart pounds against his ribs, his hands shaking uncontrollably. He was right, Charlie is in danger. She’s close by, an hour max. But Luca could make it even quicker than that.
The thought that this is a little too convenient - that Charlie’s panic button would suddenly activate just as he’s thinking about her, and this could be a trap - crosses his mind, but his determination to find Charlie and keep her safe is so strong that it overpowers everything else. Luca types the address into his GPS, and quickly heads back onto the road.
The address belongs to a house in the middle of nowhere. The paint is peeling off the walls, and a few of the windows are broken too. An eerie quiet hangs in the air, and everything is still. Immediately, Luca’s breath hitches, the hair on the back of his neck standing up. He steps up towards the door, pushing it open. The door creaks, the sound echoing through the house. Stepping inside, Luca’s hands instinctively go to his gun as he looks around for any sign of Charlie.
Footsteps approach, and he lets out a sigh. “Jesus, don’t scare me like that-”
But then, hard and cold metal presses against the back of his neck. “Hello again, Luca.” Alex chuckles. “Wasn’t too smart of you to come to an abandoned house all alone, was it?”
“Pointing a gun at an armed FBI agent isn't exactly a smart move either.” Luca retorts, and she scoffs dismissively.
“Pull that on me, and I’ll make Charlie pay whilst you watch.” Luca immediately freezes, his body tense as his breath catches in his throat. He knew it. This was a trap.
“Where is she, Alex?”
“Upstairs. She’s waiting for you.” Alex teases, pressing the gun harder into the back of Luca’s neck. “So let’s walk.”
Sure enough, upstairs Charlie remains tied to her chair, with tape covering her mouth. Luca’s heart stops. He breaks away from Alex, dropping to his knees before Charlie. “Oh my god. Charlie, shit-” he fumbles, his hands still shaking as he tries to remove the rope from her wrists and ankles.
“Uh uh.” Alex tuts, pointing her gun at him. “Sit, Luca.” Luca ignores her, completely focused on helping Charlie. “Hey, didn’t you hear me? I said SIT-”
Luca turns, striking Alex hard across her face. She hisses, stumbling backwards, momentarily disoriented. Charlie blinks at Luca in confusion as he takes the tape off her mouth. That was fucking awesome, but completely unexpected. “Why the hell did you do that?! That’s just gonna piss her off-”
But as Alex goes to grab Charlie this time, Luca fends her off once more. Charlie watches the pair fighting, wanting to help but not sure how, other than throwing out encouraging words to Luca. The pair fight well, but after a while, Luca fails to dodge one of Alex’s hits, leading to her momentarily gaining the upper hand. Pulling out her gun, she aims it right at Charlie’s temple. “Sit….” she repeats, panting. “Or I’ll shoot her.” Panicked, Luca’s eyes dart between her and Charlie, weighing up what he could do. When he locks eyes with Charlie, she frantically shakes her head, urging him to drop it and do what Alex says.
And Luca does as he’s told.
“Good.” Alex looks between them both, still keeping the gun pointed at Charlie, a silent warning in case Luca tries anything.
“Alex, let him go, I told you-”
“Shut up!” She hisses. “Now…I’m going to make you regret ever crossing me.” She pants, her eyes wild with rage and adrenaline. “And we’re going to start with-”
But then, someone violently kicks open the door downstairs, and other voices fill the air.
“FBI! Hands in the air!”
“What the hell did you do?!” Alex demands.
And everything descends into chaos. Glass breaks, doors are kicked open… and through it all, Luca and Charlie keep their gazes locked on each other. Panicking, Alex tries to make a break for the door, but it’s too late, and she’s easily overpowered by the approaching agents, who subdue her and drag her outside. Charlie pants, trying to make sense of everything. Her heart rate is still going a million miles an hour, pounding in her ears like a drum, and she’s still shaking.
“Guys, can we give her a minute?” Luca asks. Suddenly, he’s in front of her again, gently taking her hands. His touch is warm and gentle, and he runs his hands along her knuckles. “It’s okay. Shh, shh….” he soothes, holding her as she calms down.
“W-What the hell happened?” Charlie gasps, making him chuckle.
“I knew something was suspicious when I saw the house. I called for backup just in case.” He removes the rope that binds her wrists and ankles with a smile. “There you go. You're safe now.”
As soon as she hears those words, Charlie starts sobbing.
“See? I told you it was a good idea to have a panic alarm, didn’t I?” Luca grins, his grin immediately faltering as he realises that wasn't the best thing to say, or the best time to say it.
But Charlie’s too grateful to care. She lunges forward, almost sending Luca to the floor with the speed she tackles him into a hug. “Whoa, hey, it’s okay-“ Charlie sobs into his shirt, and he wraps his arms around her, holding her up as her body shakes. “It’s alright, it’s okay. It’s over now.”
“I didn’t mean what I said, I-she made me do it. She threatened you, and-” Charlie mumbles.
“I know. I know. It’s okay.” Luca holds her until she calms down. He doesn’t loosen his grip, even when he’s sure she’ll be okay. Because for once, everything in their life is going well for them, and he’s terrified that this is still a dream, that if he lets her go, he’ll lose her forever. He buries his face in her hair, inhaling her scent. She smells like home, like new beginnings.
“What’s going to happen to us?” Charlie murmurs. “Are you going to arrest me?”
He has to. They both know it. There’s no way they make it out of this, in any universe. But god, Luca will do everything in his power to make sure they do, even if it's til his last breath.
“No.” Luca insists. “I won’t let anything happen to you ever again, Charlie. I promise.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
finding you - charlie cale x luca clark
Plot: Charlie wakes up alone. Luca tries to find her. Pairing: Charlie Cale x Luca Clark Warnings: Mentions of death and death threats, kidnapping/being tied up and gagged, weapons - specifically guns and knives, drugging and being drugged, pain and mild violence, lack of sleep, nausea and Luca and Charlie's self esteem issues/self hatred (SOMEONE GIVE THEM A BREAK!!). As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: This is part two to "Love is a Condition of the Head" so please read that first if you haven't already! Sorry it took me ages to update, I've been super busy, and have also been recovering from a cold too...but I did watch some of Poker Face when I was ill, and it gave me some ideas... but here we go! Also this is like the closest thing to a happy ending I've given Charluca so far, which is really saying something so...yay!
Divider by my bestie @inbloomwriting
Sunlight streams through the window, illuminating the room in a soft, golden glow. Birds chirp outside, creating a peaceful melody, and a chill breeze blows through the leaves. It’s quiet, peaceful. Inside, Charlie sits on a chair, fast asleep. Rope binds her to the chair, and her head lolls forward. Sleep and Charlie Cale have… a tumultuous relationship, to say the least. She slept well as a child, but as she grew up, her long shifts at the casino took a toll on her mentally, physically...and especially her sleep. While on the run, sleep was a luxury she couldn’t afford, her senses always on high alert, preparing for danger.
But in the days she spent with Luca, those short, yet happy days… she was okay.
She was incredible, actually. She was safe. She felt loved. Luca protected her.
And now, it’s all over.
“Morning, sleepyhead.” Charlie bolts awake at the voice, her eyes snapping open. “Wondered how long it’d take you to wake up. I’ve just been sitting here watching you drool all over yourself.” Alex chuckles, twirling a knife between her fingers, the blade glinting in the light.
Charlie groans, her body throbbing with a dull ache as she slowly wakes up. A wave of nausea and dizziness washes over her, the world still spinning despite her attempts to blink it away.
“Hey. Look at me when I’m talking to you.” Alex snaps, clicking her fingers in front of Charlie’s face. Memories come back then, albeit hazy. A bag over her head, a sharp sting at her neck. Then nothing.
“Luca.” Charlie murmurs, her voice panicked. “W-Where’s Luca…?” Her heart pounds against her ribs, and she writhes in the chair, grunting as she strains against her bindings, desperately trying to free herself. But it makes no difference. Charlie slumps against the back of the chair, tears welling in her eyes as the aching sense of hopelessness floods throughout her blood. She fights the urge to cry, determined not to let Alex witness her pain.
But it’s too late.
“Aw.” Alex pouts mockingly, her expression soon growing into a smirk. “You don’t remember, do you? I must’ve drugged you pretty strongly. But you have been out for a couple of days.” she laughs proudly, grinning triumphantly. “You broke his heart, remember? So…he’s probably not coming for you.”
“But I don’t love you.” All at once, everything comes rushing back, completely overwhelming her. The pain, the lies… and the heartbreak, the anguish, on Luca’s face. Poor, lovesick Luca’s face. Charlie’s gut twists. She was doing this to save him, and to keep him safe. That’s what matters.
But she still feels like the worst person in the entire world.
“That’s not what I’m interested in right now, though. I went through your pockets when you were asleep, and just look what I found.” Alex chuckles, plunging her knife into the armrest of the chair between Charlie’s fingers, making Charlie jump and cry out:
“Jesus-” Charlie looks up, seeing an all too familiar device dangling from Alex’s grip.
Her panic alarm. Charlie’s chest tightens, sucking all the air out of her lungs. "No. No, no, no."
“How sweet.” Alex chuckles. “Your boyfriend really thought he could save you, huh?”
“You said I broke his heart. And he’s not my-”
“Bullshit.” She scoffs. “I saw the way he looks at you, Charlie. That man is whipped for you. So romantic, isn’t it? Just like a fairytale, with you as the damsel in distress.” Alex pauses, chuckling. “Or would you prefer I call you Lady Galahad?” Alex smirks. Charlie’s blood runs cold, hardening to ice in her veins.
More memories hit her then, sudden and intense, persisting despite her attempts to stop them.
Natalie. The face she sees every time she wakes up, and every time she goes to sleep. The first person she couldn’t save, but the one she wanted to, so, so badly. The failure that’s haunted her ever since. An all too familiar hollow ache, the stinging feeling of failure, drops into her gut.
“Don’t you ever call me that name again.” she spits, leaning forward despite the pain of the rope digging into her skin. Alex simply laughs.
“Galahad. The most gallant and perfect of the knights.” She continues, grabbing Charlie's shoulder and yanking her back into the chair. “Doesn’t really fit you though, does it, Charlie?" she chuckles, digging her fingers deeper into Charlie’s shoulder. “I mean, you’re a fucking mess.”
“Yeah, well, being hunted by a serial killer will do that to you.” Charlie snaps. Alex continues, ignoring her.
“That's what this has all been for, right? Trying to help people, save them. To bring justice against people like me. All because you couldn’t keep your best friend alive. Because you failed.”
That fills Charlie with even more rage. Not because she doesn’t think she’s a failure, no, Charlie knows she is.
It’s because only Charlie Cale gets to call herself a fucking failure.
“Keep her name out of your fucking mouth-“ Charlie orders, her voice breaking. She thrashes against her restraints, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she strains to free herself and reach Alex.
“And then you failed at protecting Beatrix.”
“That was your fault, actually.” Alex shrugs, grinning. Charlie’s urge to wipe that grin off her face intensifies.
“They say bad things come in threes, don’t they? So, let’s see if you're unlucky this time too, and invite Luca to join us.” Alex chuckles, holding the panic alarm aloft, out of Charlie’s reach.
“Y-You really think that’s a good idea?” Charlie stammers, trying to hide her fear. “He’ll bring all his agent friends down here to stop you too. He’s smart, he’ll know this is a trap.”
Alex laughs, rolling her eyes. “Oh, please. He’s not that smart. He couldn’t even figure out who I was. And I’ve seen how that man looks at you. He would do absolutely anything to find you, Charlie. And he’s so stupidly lovesick, and so determined, he’d do it all by himself, which is exactly what I need.”
She’s right. Charlie knows she is. Luca has always wanted to be the hero, even when it could put him at risk. He would absolutely come for her alone. And that’s because he’s such a good person, far better than Charlie could ever be. That doesn’t make him stupid. It makes him brave.
Luca told her once that the only reason he got his promotion was because of her, and that she’s the smartest one out of them both. Charlie laughed it off, even though she knew it was wrong. Luca Clark is an incredible agent, much better than he ever gives himself credit for. And god, Charlie wishes Luca could see himself the way she sees him, and realise just how smart, compassionate and committed he is.
He’s already saved her ass before.
Now, it's up to Charlie to save his.
Alex’s finger hovers over the button, and Charlie’s eyes widen.
“No. No.” Charlie gasps, her stomach lurching. Instantly, her anger disappears, replaced by pure, primal fear. “He has nothing to do with this, Alex, please!”
“Bullshit. He has everything to do with this.” Alex tilts her head, watching Charlie struggle and panic. “It’s hilarious seeing you panic like this, you know? I thought Charlie Cale only ever wanted to be alone, and only cared about herself.” Charlie grunts and swears, straining and trying with all her might to lean forward and snatch the alarm right out of Alex’s hand. The rope strains against her, burning as it digs into her skin and causing her to swear, but Charlie pushes through it.
“Alex, please.” Charlie begs, tears streaming down her face. “Why don’t you just kill me instead, get it over with. I’m the one you want, it’s always been me! Just-“
“Oh, I am going to kill you.” She chuckles. “But I’m going to kill him first, and make you watch.”
And with that, she presses the button on the panic alarm.
Meanwhile, Luca is sitting in his car by the side of the road. His head is in his hands, and he groans as he runs his fingers through his hair. His half-finished coffee and fast-food breakfast sit beside him, and he tiredly rubs his eyes. He’s been desperately searching for Charlie ever since she left, with little success… or sleep. Clearly, she wants to be hidden, and considering everything that’s been going on, that’s understandable.
Yet… Luca can’t forget the look on her face when she told him she never wanted to see him again. He’s replayed the scene at least a thousand times since then, trying to decipher every word she said, every shift in her expression, and try as he might, he can’t stop thinking about what that could mean. Or can't stop thinking about the one possibility he doesn't want to confront.
That maybe she wasn’t in danger, and that he was just seeing what he wanted to see. Maybe whatever they had is gone, or it wasn’t even there at all.
Maybe Charlie truly doesn’t want to be found.
Or at least… not by Luca.
But just as he’s about to consider calling it quits, his phone beeps loudly. Immediately, he’s wide awake, grabbing his phone and checking the alert. Charlie’s panic alarm has been activated. His heart pounds against his ribs, his hands shaking uncontrollably. He was right, Charlie is in danger. She’s close by, an hour max. But Luca could make it even quicker than that.
The thought that this is a little too convenient - that Charlie’s panic button would suddenly activate just as he’s thinking about her, and this could be a trap - crosses his mind, but his determination to find Charlie and keep her safe is so strong that it overpowers everything else. Luca types the address into his GPS, and quickly heads back onto the road.
The address belongs to a house in the middle of nowhere. The paint is peeling off the walls, and a few of the windows are broken too. An eerie quiet hangs in the air, and everything is still. Immediately, Luca’s breath hitches, the hair on the back of his neck standing up. He steps up towards the door, pushing it open. The door creaks, the sound echoing through the house. Stepping inside, Luca’s hands instinctively go to his gun as he looks around for any sign of Charlie.
Footsteps approach, and he lets out a sigh. “Jesus, don’t scare me like that-”
But then, hard and cold metal presses against the back of his neck. “Hello again, Luca.” Alex chuckles. “Wasn’t too smart of you to come to an abandoned house all alone, was it?”
“Pointing a gun at an armed FBI agent isn't exactly a smart move either.” Luca retorts, and she scoffs dismissively.
“Pull that on me, and I’ll make Charlie pay whilst you watch.” Luca immediately freezes, his body tense as his breath catches in his throat. He knew it. This was a trap.
“Where is she, Alex?”
“Upstairs. She’s waiting for you.” Alex teases, pressing the gun harder into the back of Luca’s neck. “So let’s walk.”
Sure enough, upstairs Charlie remains tied to her chair, with tape covering her mouth. Luca’s heart stops. He breaks away from Alex, dropping to his knees before Charlie. “Oh my god. Charlie, shit-” he fumbles, his hands still shaking as he tries to remove the rope from her wrists and ankles.
“Uh uh.” Alex tuts, pointing her gun at him. “Sit, Luca.” Luca ignores her, completely focused on helping Charlie. “Hey, didn’t you hear me? I said SIT-”
Luca turns, striking Alex hard across her face. She hisses, stumbling backwards, momentarily disoriented. Charlie blinks at Luca in confusion as he takes the tape off her mouth. That was fucking awesome, but completely unexpected. “Why the hell did you do that?! That’s just gonna piss her off-”
But as Alex goes to grab Charlie this time, Luca fends her off once more. Charlie watches the pair fighting, wanting to help but not sure how, other than throwing out encouraging words to Luca. The pair fight well, but after a while, Luca fails to dodge one of Alex’s hits, leading to her momentarily gaining the upper hand. Pulling out her gun, she aims it right at Charlie’s temple. “Sit….” she repeats, panting. “Or I’ll shoot her.” Panicked, Luca’s eyes dart between her and Charlie, weighing up what he could do. When he locks eyes with Charlie, she frantically shakes her head, urging him to drop it and do what Alex says.
And Luca does as he’s told.
“Good.” Alex looks between them both, still keeping the gun pointed at Charlie, a silent warning in case Luca tries anything.
“Alex, let him go, I told you-”
“Shut up!” She hisses. “Now…I’m going to make you regret ever crossing me.” She pants, her eyes wild with rage and adrenaline. “And we’re going to start with-”
But then, someone violently kicks open the door downstairs, and other voices fill the air.
“FBI! Hands in the air!”
“What the hell did you do?!” Alex demands.
And everything descends into chaos. Glass breaks, doors are kicked open… and through it all, Luca and Charlie keep their gazes locked on each other. Panicking, Alex tries to make a break for the door, but it’s too late, and she’s easily overpowered by the approaching agents, who subdue her and drag her outside. Charlie pants, trying to make sense of everything. Her heart rate is still going a million miles an hour, pounding in her ears like a drum, and she’s still shaking.
“Guys, can we give her a minute?” Luca asks. Suddenly, he’s in front of her again, gently taking her hands. His touch is warm and gentle, and he runs his hands along her knuckles. “It’s okay. Shh, shh….” he soothes, holding her as she calms down.
“W-What the hell happened?” Charlie gasps, making him chuckle.
“I knew something was suspicious when I saw the house. I called for backup just in case.” He removes the rope that binds her wrists and ankles with a smile. “There you go. You're safe now.”
As soon as she hears those words, Charlie starts sobbing.
“See? I told you it was a good idea to have a panic alarm, didn’t I?” Luca grins, his grin immediately faltering as he realises that wasn't the best thing to say, or the best time to say it.
But Charlie’s too grateful to care. She lunges forward, almost sending Luca to the floor with the speed she tackles him into a hug. “Whoa, hey, it’s okay-“ Charlie sobs into his shirt, and he wraps his arms around her, holding her up as her body shakes. “It’s alright, it’s okay. It’s over now.”
“I didn’t mean what I said, I-she made me do it. She threatened you, and-” Charlie mumbles.
“I know. I know. It’s okay.” Luca holds her until she calms down. He doesn’t loosen his grip, even when he’s sure she’ll be okay. Because for once, everything in their life is going well for them, and he’s terrified that this is still a dream, that if he lets her go, he’ll lose her forever. He buries his face in her hair, inhaling her scent. She smells like home, like new beginnings.
“What’s going to happen to us?” Charlie murmurs. “Are you going to arrest me?”
He has to. They both know it. There’s no way they make it out of this, in any universe. But god, Luca will do everything in his power to make sure they do, even if it's til his last breath.
“No.” Luca insists. “I won’t let anything happen to you ever again, Charlie. I promise.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
finding you - charlie cale x luca clark
Plot: Charlie wakes up alone. Luca tries to find her. Pairing: Charlie Cale x Luca Clark Warnings: Mentions of death and death threats, kidnapping/being tied up and gagged, weapons - specifically guns and knives, drugging and being drugged, pain and mild violence, lack of sleep, nausea and Luca and Charlie's self esteem issues/self hatred (SOMEONE GIVE THEM A BREAK!!). As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: This is part two to "Love is a Condition of the Head" so please read that first if you haven't already! Sorry it took me ages to update, I've been super busy, and have also been recovering from a cold too...but I did watch some of Poker Face when I was ill, and it gave me some ideas... but here we go! Also this is like the closest thing to a happy ending I've given Charluca so far, which is really saying something so...yay!
Divider by my bestie @inbloomwriting
Sunlight streams through the window, illuminating the room in a soft, golden glow. Birds chirp outside, creating a peaceful melody, and a chill breeze blows through the leaves. It’s quiet, peaceful. Inside, Charlie sits on a chair, fast asleep. Rope binds her to the chair, and her head lolls forward. Sleep and Charlie Cale have… a tumultuous relationship, to say the least. She slept well as a child, but as she grew up, her long shifts at the casino took a toll on her mentally, physically...and especially her sleep. While on the run, sleep was a luxury she couldn’t afford, her senses always on high alert, preparing for danger.
But in the days she spent with Luca, those short, yet happy days… she was okay.
She was incredible, actually. She was safe. She felt loved. Luca protected her.
And now, it’s all over.
“Morning, sleepyhead.” Charlie bolts awake at the voice, her eyes snapping open. “Wondered how long it’d take you to wake up. I’ve just been sitting here watching you drool all over yourself.” Alex chuckles, twirling a knife between her fingers, the blade glinting in the light.
Charlie groans, her body throbbing with a dull ache as she slowly wakes up. A wave of nausea and dizziness washes over her, the world still spinning despite her attempts to blink it away.
“Hey. Look at me when I’m talking to you.” Alex snaps, clicking her fingers in front of Charlie’s face. Memories come back then, albeit hazy. A bag over her head, a sharp sting at her neck. Then nothing.
“Luca.” Charlie murmurs, her voice panicked. “W-Where’s Luca…?” Her heart pounds against her ribs, and she writhes in the chair, grunting as she strains against her bindings, desperately trying to free herself. But it makes no difference. Charlie slumps against the back of the chair, tears welling in her eyes as the aching sense of hopelessness floods throughout her blood. She fights the urge to cry, determined not to let Alex witness her pain.
But it’s too late.
“Aw.” Alex pouts mockingly, her expression soon growing into a smirk. “You don’t remember, do you? I must’ve drugged you pretty strongly. But you have been out for a couple of days.” she laughs proudly, grinning triumphantly. “You broke his heart, remember? So…he’s probably not coming for you.”
“But I don’t love you.” All at once, everything comes rushing back, completely overwhelming her. The pain, the lies… and the heartbreak, the anguish, on Luca’s face. Poor, lovesick Luca’s face. Charlie’s gut twists. She was doing this to save him, and to keep him safe. That’s what matters.
But she still feels like the worst person in the entire world.
“That’s not what I’m interested in right now, though. I went through your pockets when you were asleep, and just look what I found.” Alex chuckles, plunging her knife into the armrest of the chair between Charlie’s fingers, making Charlie jump and cry out:
“Jesus-” Charlie looks up, seeing an all too familiar device dangling from Alex’s grip.
Her panic alarm. Charlie’s chest tightens, sucking all the air out of her lungs. "No. No, no, no."
“How sweet.” Alex chuckles. “Your boyfriend really thought he could save you, huh?”
“You said I broke his heart. And he’s not my-”
“Bullshit.” She scoffs. “I saw the way he looks at you, Charlie. That man is whipped for you. So romantic, isn’t it? Just like a fairytale, with you as the damsel in distress.” Alex pauses, chuckling. “Or would you prefer I call you Lady Galahad?” Alex smirks. Charlie’s blood runs cold, hardening to ice in her veins.
More memories hit her then, sudden and intense, persisting despite her attempts to stop them.
Natalie. The face she sees every time she wakes up, and every time she goes to sleep. The first person she couldn’t save, but the one she wanted to, so, so badly. The failure that’s haunted her ever since. An all too familiar hollow ache, the stinging feeling of failure, drops into her gut.
“Don’t you ever call me that name again.” she spits, leaning forward despite the pain of the rope digging into her skin. Alex simply laughs.
“Galahad. The most gallant and perfect of the knights.” She continues, grabbing Charlie's shoulder and yanking her back into the chair. “Doesn’t really fit you though, does it, Charlie?" she chuckles, digging her fingers deeper into Charlie’s shoulder. “I mean, you’re a fucking mess.”
“Yeah, well, being hunted by a serial killer will do that to you.” Charlie snaps. Alex continues, ignoring her.
“That's what this has all been for, right? Trying to help people, save them. To bring justice against people like me. All because you couldn’t keep your best friend alive. Because you failed.”
That fills Charlie with even more rage. Not because she doesn’t think she’s a failure, no, Charlie knows she is.
It’s because only Charlie Cale gets to call herself a fucking failure.
“Keep her name out of your fucking mouth-“ Charlie orders, her voice breaking. She thrashes against her restraints, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she strains to free herself and reach Alex.
“And then you failed at protecting Beatrix.”
“That was your fault, actually.” Alex shrugs, grinning. Charlie’s urge to wipe that grin off her face intensifies.
“They say bad things come in threes, don’t they? So, let’s see if you're unlucky this time too, and invite Luca to join us.” Alex chuckles, holding the panic alarm aloft, out of Charlie’s reach.
“Y-You really think that’s a good idea?” Charlie stammers, trying to hide her fear. “He’ll bring all his agent friends down here to stop you too. He’s smart, he’ll know this is a trap.”
Alex laughs, rolling her eyes. “Oh, please. He’s not that smart. He couldn’t even figure out who I was. And I’ve seen how that man looks at you. He would do absolutely anything to find you, Charlie. And he’s so stupidly lovesick, and so determined, he’d do it all by himself, which is exactly what I need.”
She’s right. Charlie knows she is. Luca has always wanted to be the hero, even when it could put him at risk. He would absolutely come for her alone. And that’s because he’s such a good person, far better than Charlie could ever be. That doesn’t make him stupid. It makes him brave.
Luca told her once that the only reason he got his promotion was because of her, and that she’s the smartest one out of them both. Charlie laughed it off, even though she knew it was wrong. Luca Clark is an incredible agent, much better than he ever gives himself credit for. And god, Charlie wishes Luca could see himself the way she sees him, and realise just how smart, compassionate and committed he is.
He’s already saved her ass before.
Now, it's up to Charlie to save his.
Alex’s finger hovers over the button, and Charlie’s eyes widen.
“No. No.” Charlie gasps, her stomach lurching. Instantly, her anger disappears, replaced by pure, primal fear. “He has nothing to do with this, Alex, please!”
“Bullshit. He has everything to do with this.” Alex tilts her head, watching Charlie struggle and panic. “It’s hilarious seeing you panic like this, you know? I thought Charlie Cale only ever wanted to be alone, and only cared about herself.” Charlie grunts and swears, straining and trying with all her might to lean forward and snatch the alarm right out of Alex’s hand. The rope strains against her, burning as it digs into her skin and causing her to swear, but Charlie pushes through it.
“Alex, please.” Charlie begs, tears streaming down her face. “Why don’t you just kill me instead, get it over with. I’m the one you want, it’s always been me! Just-“
“Oh, I am going to kill you.” She chuckles. “But I’m going to kill him first, and make you watch.”
And with that, she presses the button on the panic alarm.
Meanwhile, Luca is sitting in his car by the side of the road. His head is in his hands, and he groans as he runs his fingers through his hair. His half-finished coffee and fast-food breakfast sit beside him, and he tiredly rubs his eyes. He’s been desperately searching for Charlie ever since she left, with little success… or sleep. Clearly, she wants to be hidden, and considering everything that’s been going on, that’s understandable.
Yet… Luca can’t forget the look on her face when she told him she never wanted to see him again. He’s replayed the scene at least a thousand times since then, trying to decipher every word she said, every shift in her expression, and try as he might, he can’t stop thinking about what that could mean. Or can't stop thinking about the one possibility he doesn't want to confront.
That maybe she wasn’t in danger, and that he was just seeing what he wanted to see. Maybe whatever they had is gone, or it wasn’t even there at all.
Maybe Charlie truly doesn’t want to be found.
Or at least… not by Luca.
But just as he’s about to consider calling it quits, his phone beeps loudly. Immediately, he’s wide awake, grabbing his phone and checking the alert. Charlie’s panic alarm has been activated. His heart pounds against his ribs, his hands shaking uncontrollably. He was right, Charlie is in danger. She’s close by, an hour max. But Luca could make it even quicker than that.
The thought that this is a little too convenient - that Charlie’s panic button would suddenly activate just as he’s thinking about her, and this could be a trap - crosses his mind, but his determination to find Charlie and keep her safe is so strong that it overpowers everything else. Luca types the address into his GPS, and quickly heads back onto the road.
The address belongs to a house in the middle of nowhere. The paint is peeling off the walls, and a few of the windows are broken too. An eerie quiet hangs in the air, and everything is still. Immediately, Luca’s breath hitches, the hair on the back of his neck standing up. He steps up towards the door, pushing it open. The door creaks, the sound echoing through the house. Stepping inside, Luca’s hands instinctively go to his gun as he looks around for any sign of Charlie.
Footsteps approach, and he lets out a sigh. “Jesus, don’t scare me like that-”
But then, hard and cold metal presses against the back of his neck. “Hello again, Luca.” Alex chuckles. “Wasn’t too smart of you to come to an abandoned house all alone, was it?”
“Pointing a gun at an armed FBI agent isn't exactly a smart move either.” Luca retorts, and she scoffs dismissively.
“Pull that on me, and I’ll make Charlie pay whilst you watch.” Luca immediately freezes, his body tense as his breath catches in his throat. He knew it. This was a trap.
“Where is she, Alex?”
“Upstairs. She’s waiting for you.” Alex teases, pressing the gun harder into the back of Luca’s neck. “So let’s walk.”
Sure enough, upstairs Charlie remains tied to her chair, with tape covering her mouth. Luca’s heart stops. He breaks away from Alex, dropping to his knees before Charlie. “Oh my god. Charlie, shit-” he fumbles, his hands still shaking as he tries to remove the rope from her wrists and ankles.
“Uh uh.” Alex tuts, pointing her gun at him. “Sit, Luca.” Luca ignores her, completely focused on helping Charlie. “Hey, didn’t you hear me? I said SIT-”
Luca turns, striking Alex hard across her face. She hisses, stumbling backwards, momentarily disoriented. Charlie blinks at Luca in confusion as he takes the tape off her mouth. That was fucking awesome, but completely unexpected. “Why the hell did you do that?! That’s just gonna piss her off-”
But as Alex goes to grab Charlie this time, Luca fends her off once more. Charlie watches the pair fighting, wanting to help but not sure how, other than throwing out encouraging words to Luca. The pair fight well, but after a while, Luca fails to dodge one of Alex’s hits, leading to her momentarily gaining the upper hand. Pulling out her gun, she aims it right at Charlie’s temple. “Sit….” she repeats, panting. “Or I’ll shoot her.” Panicked, Luca’s eyes dart between her and Charlie, weighing up what he could do. When he locks eyes with Charlie, she frantically shakes her head, urging him to drop it and do what Alex says.
And Luca does as he’s told.
“Good.” Alex looks between them both, still keeping the gun pointed at Charlie, a silent warning in case Luca tries anything.
“Alex, let him go, I told you-”
“Shut up!” She hisses. “Now…I’m going to make you regret ever crossing me.” She pants, her eyes wild with rage and adrenaline. “And we’re going to start with-”
But then, someone violently kicks open the door downstairs, and other voices fill the air.
“FBI! Hands in the air!”
“What the hell did you do?!” Alex demands.
And everything descends into chaos. Glass breaks, doors are kicked open… and through it all, Luca and Charlie keep their gazes locked on each other. Panicking, Alex tries to make a break for the door, but it’s too late, and she’s easily overpowered by the approaching agents, who subdue her and drag her outside. Charlie pants, trying to make sense of everything. Her heart rate is still going a million miles an hour, pounding in her ears like a drum, and she’s still shaking.
“Guys, can we give her a minute?” Luca asks. Suddenly, he’s in front of her again, gently taking her hands. His touch is warm and gentle, and he runs his hands along her knuckles. “It’s okay. Shh, shh….” he soothes, holding her as she calms down.
“W-What the hell happened?” Charlie gasps, making him chuckle.
“I knew something was suspicious when I saw the house. I called for backup just in case.” He removes the rope that binds her wrists and ankles with a smile. “There you go. You're safe now.”
As soon as she hears those words, Charlie starts sobbing.
“See? I told you it was a good idea to have a panic alarm, didn’t I?” Luca grins, his grin immediately faltering as he realises that wasn't the best thing to say, or the best time to say it.
But Charlie’s too grateful to care. She lunges forward, almost sending Luca to the floor with the speed she tackles him into a hug. “Whoa, hey, it’s okay-“ Charlie sobs into his shirt, and he wraps his arms around her, holding her up as her body shakes. “It’s alright, it’s okay. It’s over now.”
“I didn’t mean what I said, I-she made me do it. She threatened you, and-” Charlie mumbles.
“I know. I know. It’s okay.” Luca holds her until she calms down. He doesn’t loosen his grip, even when he’s sure she’ll be okay. Because for once, everything in their life is going well for them, and he’s terrified that this is still a dream, that if he lets her go, he’ll lose her forever. He buries his face in her hair, inhaling her scent. She smells like home, like new beginnings.
“What’s going to happen to us?” Charlie murmurs. “Are you going to arrest me?”
He has to. They both know it. There’s no way they make it out of this, in any universe. But god, Luca will do everything in his power to make sure they do, even if it's til his last breath.
“No.” Luca insists. “I won’t let anything happen to you ever again, Charlie. I promise.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
I miss my baby Charlie Cale and her anxious fed boyfriend :(((
finding you - charlie cale x luca clark
Plot: Charlie wakes up alone. Luca tries to find her. Pairing: Charlie Cale x Luca Clark Warnings: Mentions of death and death threats, kidnapping/being tied up and gagged, weapons - specifically guns and knives, drugging and being drugged, pain and mild violence, lack of sleep, nausea and Luca and Charlie's self esteem issues/self hatred (SOMEONE GIVE THEM A BREAK!!). As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know. Notes: This is part two to "Love is a Condition of the Head" so please read that first if you haven't already! Sorry it took me ages to update, I've been super busy, and have also been recovering from a cold too...but I did watch some of Poker Face when I was ill, and it gave me some ideas... but here we go! Also this is like the closest thing to a happy ending I've given Charluca so far, which is really saying something so...yay!
Divider by my bestie @inbloomwriting
Sunlight streams through the window, illuminating the room in a soft, golden glow. Birds chirp outside, creating a peaceful melody, and a chill breeze blows through the leaves. It’s quiet, peaceful. Inside, Charlie sits on a chair, fast asleep. Rope binds her to the chair, and her head lolls forward. Sleep and Charlie Cale have… a tumultuous relationship, to say the least. She slept well as a child, but as she grew up, her long shifts at the casino took a toll on her mentally, physically...and especially her sleep. While on the run, sleep was a luxury she couldn’t afford, her senses always on high alert, preparing for danger.
But in the days she spent with Luca, those short, yet happy days… she was okay.
She was incredible, actually. She was safe. She felt loved. Luca protected her.
And now, it’s all over.
“Morning, sleepyhead.” Charlie bolts awake at the voice, her eyes snapping open. “Wondered how long it’d take you to wake up. I’ve just been sitting here watching you drool all over yourself.” Alex chuckles, twirling a knife between her fingers, the blade glinting in the light.
Charlie groans, her body throbbing with a dull ache as she slowly wakes up. A wave of nausea and dizziness washes over her, the world still spinning despite her attempts to blink it away.
“Hey. Look at me when I’m talking to you.” Alex snaps, clicking her fingers in front of Charlie’s face. Memories come back then, albeit hazy. A bag over her head, a sharp sting at her neck. Then nothing.
“Luca.” Charlie murmurs, her voice panicked. “W-Where’s Luca…?” Her heart pounds against her ribs, and she writhes in the chair, grunting as she strains against her bindings, desperately trying to free herself. But it makes no difference. Charlie slumps against the back of the chair, tears welling in her eyes as the aching sense of hopelessness floods throughout her blood. She fights the urge to cry, determined not to let Alex witness her pain.
But it’s too late.
“Aw.” Alex pouts mockingly, her expression soon growing into a smirk. “You don’t remember, do you? I must’ve drugged you pretty strongly. But you have been out for a couple of days.” she laughs proudly, grinning triumphantly. “You broke his heart, remember? So…he’s probably not coming for you.”
“But I don’t love you.” All at once, everything comes rushing back, completely overwhelming her. The pain, the lies… and the heartbreak, the anguish, on Luca’s face. Poor, lovesick Luca’s face. Charlie’s gut twists. She was doing this to save him, and to keep him safe. That’s what matters.
But she still feels like the worst person in the entire world.
“That’s not what I’m interested in right now, though. I went through your pockets when you were asleep, and just look what I found.” Alex chuckles, plunging her knife into the armrest of the chair between Charlie’s fingers, making Charlie jump and cry out:
“Jesus-” Charlie looks up, seeing an all too familiar device dangling from Alex’s grip.
Her panic alarm. Charlie’s chest tightens, sucking all the air out of her lungs. "No. No, no, no."
“How sweet.” Alex chuckles. “Your boyfriend really thought he could save you, huh?”
“You said I broke his heart. And he’s not my-”
“Bullshit.” She scoffs. “I saw the way he looks at you, Charlie. That man is whipped for you. So romantic, isn’t it? Just like a fairytale, with you as the damsel in distress.” Alex pauses, chuckling. “Or would you prefer I call you Lady Galahad?” Alex smirks. Charlie’s blood runs cold, hardening to ice in her veins.
More memories hit her then, sudden and intense, persisting despite her attempts to stop them.
Natalie. The face she sees every time she wakes up, and every time she goes to sleep. The first person she couldn’t save, but the one she wanted to, so, so badly. The failure that’s haunted her ever since. An all too familiar hollow ache, the stinging feeling of failure, drops into her gut.
“Don’t you ever call me that name again.” she spits, leaning forward despite the pain of the rope digging into her skin. Alex simply laughs.
“Galahad. The most gallant and perfect of the knights.” She continues, grabbing Charlie's shoulder and yanking her back into the chair. “Doesn’t really fit you though, does it, Charlie?" she chuckles, digging her fingers deeper into Charlie’s shoulder. “I mean, you’re a fucking mess.”
“Yeah, well, being hunted by a serial killer will do that to you.” Charlie snaps. Alex continues, ignoring her.
“That's what this has all been for, right? Trying to help people, save them. To bring justice against people like me. All because you couldn’t keep your best friend alive. Because you failed.”
That fills Charlie with even more rage. Not because she doesn’t think she’s a failure, no, Charlie knows she is.
It’s because only Charlie Cale gets to call herself a fucking failure.
“Keep her name out of your fucking mouth-“ Charlie orders, her voice breaking. She thrashes against her restraints, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she strains to free herself and reach Alex.
“And then you failed at protecting Beatrix.”
“That was your fault, actually.” Alex shrugs, grinning. Charlie’s urge to wipe that grin off her face intensifies.
“They say bad things come in threes, don’t they? So, let’s see if you're unlucky this time too, and invite Luca to join us.” Alex chuckles, holding the panic alarm aloft, out of Charlie’s reach.
“Y-You really think that’s a good idea?” Charlie stammers, trying to hide her fear. “He’ll bring all his agent friends down here to stop you too. He’s smart, he’ll know this is a trap.”
Alex laughs, rolling her eyes. “Oh, please. He’s not that smart. He couldn’t even figure out who I was. And I’ve seen how that man looks at you. He would do absolutely anything to find you, Charlie. And he’s so stupidly lovesick, and so determined, he’d do it all by himself, which is exactly what I need.”
She’s right. Charlie knows she is. Luca has always wanted to be the hero, even when it could put him at risk. He would absolutely come for her alone. And that’s because he’s such a good person, far better than Charlie could ever be. That doesn’t make him stupid. It makes him brave.
Luca told her once that the only reason he got his promotion was because of her, and that she’s the smartest one out of them both. Charlie laughed it off, even though she knew it was wrong. Luca Clark is an incredible agent, much better than he ever gives himself credit for. And god, Charlie wishes Luca could see himself the way she sees him, and realise just how smart, compassionate and committed he is.
He’s already saved her ass before.
Now, it's up to Charlie to save his.
Alex’s finger hovers over the button, and Charlie’s eyes widen.
“No. No.” Charlie gasps, her stomach lurching. Instantly, her anger disappears, replaced by pure, primal fear. “He has nothing to do with this, Alex, please!”
“Bullshit. He has everything to do with this.” Alex tilts her head, watching Charlie struggle and panic. “It’s hilarious seeing you panic like this, you know? I thought Charlie Cale only ever wanted to be alone, and only cared about herself.” Charlie grunts and swears, straining and trying with all her might to lean forward and snatch the alarm right out of Alex’s hand. The rope strains against her, burning as it digs into her skin and causing her to swear, but Charlie pushes through it.
“Alex, please.” Charlie begs, tears streaming down her face. “Why don’t you just kill me instead, get it over with. I’m the one you want, it’s always been me! Just-“
“Oh, I am going to kill you.” She chuckles. “But I’m going to kill him first, and make you watch.”
And with that, she presses the button on the panic alarm.
Meanwhile, Luca is sitting in his car by the side of the road. His head is in his hands, and he groans as he runs his fingers through his hair. His half-finished coffee and fast-food breakfast sit beside him, and he tiredly rubs his eyes. He’s been desperately searching for Charlie ever since she left, with little success… or sleep. Clearly, she wants to be hidden, and considering everything that’s been going on, that’s understandable.
Yet… Luca can’t forget the look on her face when she told him she never wanted to see him again. He’s replayed the scene at least a thousand times since then, trying to decipher every word she said, every shift in her expression, and try as he might, he can’t stop thinking about what that could mean. Or can't stop thinking about the one possibility he doesn't want to confront.
That maybe she wasn’t in danger, and that he was just seeing what he wanted to see. Maybe whatever they had is gone, or it wasn’t even there at all.
Maybe Charlie truly doesn’t want to be found.
Or at least… not by Luca.
But just as he’s about to consider calling it quits, his phone beeps loudly. Immediately, he’s wide awake, grabbing his phone and checking the alert. Charlie’s panic alarm has been activated. His heart pounds against his ribs, his hands shaking uncontrollably. He was right, Charlie is in danger. She’s close by, an hour max. But Luca could make it even quicker than that.
The thought that this is a little too convenient - that Charlie’s panic button would suddenly activate just as he’s thinking about her, and this could be a trap - crosses his mind, but his determination to find Charlie and keep her safe is so strong that it overpowers everything else. Luca types the address into his GPS, and quickly heads back onto the road.
The address belongs to a house in the middle of nowhere. The paint is peeling off the walls, and a few of the windows are broken too. An eerie quiet hangs in the air, and everything is still. Immediately, Luca’s breath hitches, the hair on the back of his neck standing up. He steps up towards the door, pushing it open. The door creaks, the sound echoing through the house. Stepping inside, Luca’s hands instinctively go to his gun as he looks around for any sign of Charlie.
Footsteps approach, and he lets out a sigh. “Jesus, don’t scare me like that-”
But then, hard and cold metal presses against the back of his neck. “Hello again, Luca.” Alex chuckles. “Wasn’t too smart of you to come to an abandoned house all alone, was it?”
“Pointing a gun at an armed FBI agent isn't exactly a smart move either.” Luca retorts, and she scoffs dismissively.
“Pull that on me, and I’ll make Charlie pay whilst you watch.” Luca immediately freezes, his body tense as his breath catches in his throat. He knew it. This was a trap.
“Where is she, Alex?”
“Upstairs. She’s waiting for you.” Alex teases, pressing the gun harder into the back of Luca’s neck. “So let’s walk.”
Sure enough, upstairs Charlie remains tied to her chair, with tape covering her mouth. Luca’s heart stops. He breaks away from Alex, dropping to his knees before Charlie. “Oh my god. Charlie, shit-” he fumbles, his hands still shaking as he tries to remove the rope from her wrists and ankles.
“Uh uh.” Alex tuts, pointing her gun at him. “Sit, Luca.” Luca ignores her, completely focused on helping Charlie. “Hey, didn’t you hear me? I said SIT-”
Luca turns, striking Alex hard across her face. She hisses, stumbling backwards, momentarily disoriented. Charlie blinks at Luca in confusion as he takes the tape off her mouth. That was fucking awesome, but completely unexpected. “Why the hell did you do that?! That’s just gonna piss her off-”
But as Alex goes to grab Charlie this time, Luca fends her off once more. Charlie watches the pair fighting, wanting to help but not sure how, other than throwing out encouraging words to Luca. The pair fight well, but after a while, Luca fails to dodge one of Alex’s hits, leading to her momentarily gaining the upper hand. Pulling out her gun, she aims it right at Charlie’s temple. “Sit….” she repeats, panting. “Or I’ll shoot her.” Panicked, Luca’s eyes dart between her and Charlie, weighing up what he could do. When he locks eyes with Charlie, she frantically shakes her head, urging him to drop it and do what Alex says.
And Luca does as he’s told.
“Good.” Alex looks between them both, still keeping the gun pointed at Charlie, a silent warning in case Luca tries anything.
“Alex, let him go, I told you-”
“Shut up!” She hisses. “Now…I’m going to make you regret ever crossing me.” She pants, her eyes wild with rage and adrenaline. “And we’re going to start with-”
But then, someone violently kicks open the door downstairs, and other voices fill the air.
“FBI! Hands in the air!”
“What the hell did you do?!” Alex demands.
And everything descends into chaos. Glass breaks, doors are kicked open… and through it all, Luca and Charlie keep their gazes locked on each other. Panicking, Alex tries to make a break for the door, but it’s too late, and she’s easily overpowered by the approaching agents, who subdue her and drag her outside. Charlie pants, trying to make sense of everything. Her heart rate is still going a million miles an hour, pounding in her ears like a drum, and she’s still shaking.
“Guys, can we give her a minute?” Luca asks. Suddenly, he’s in front of her again, gently taking her hands. His touch is warm and gentle, and he runs his hands along her knuckles. “It’s okay. Shh, shh….” he soothes, holding her as she calms down.
“W-What the hell happened?” Charlie gasps, making him chuckle.
“I knew something was suspicious when I saw the house. I called for backup just in case.” He removes the rope that binds her wrists and ankles with a smile. “There you go. You're safe now.”
As soon as she hears those words, Charlie starts sobbing.
“See? I told you it was a good idea to have a panic alarm, didn’t I?” Luca grins, his grin immediately faltering as he realises that wasn't the best thing to say, or the best time to say it.
But Charlie’s too grateful to care. She lunges forward, almost sending Luca to the floor with the speed she tackles him into a hug. “Whoa, hey, it’s okay-“ Charlie sobs into his shirt, and he wraps his arms around her, holding her up as her body shakes. “It’s alright, it’s okay. It’s over now.”
“I didn’t mean what I said, I-she made me do it. She threatened you, and-” Charlie mumbles.
“I know. I know. It’s okay.” Luca holds her until she calms down. He doesn’t loosen his grip, even when he’s sure she’ll be okay. Because for once, everything in their life is going well for them, and he’s terrified that this is still a dream, that if he lets her go, he’ll lose her forever. He buries his face in her hair, inhaling her scent. She smells like home, like new beginnings.
“What’s going to happen to us?” Charlie murmurs. “Are you going to arrest me?”
He has to. They both know it. There’s no way they make it out of this, in any universe. But god, Luca will do everything in his power to make sure they do, even if it's til his last breath.
“No.” Luca insists. “I won’t let anything happen to you ever again, Charlie. I promise.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
are you fallin' for me? - congressman!bucky x female!reader
Are you fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa fallin' for me? Yes or no? - fallin' with me by the struts
Plot: Personal assistant Y/N is in love with her boss, Congressman Bucky Barnes. Bucky insists on calling it platonic, and she's accepted he doesn't feel the same ...but he keeps calling her his favourite person and looking at her like there's something there, and it's driving her insane. One night, Bucky and Y/N go to a hotel room before a conference...and there's only one bed. What could possibly go wrong? Pairing: Congressman!Bucky x Female!Reader Warnings: Everything is consensual, but since Bucky is reader's boss, there's obviously a power imbalance between them, so if that makes you uncomfortable, please don't read. Mentions of the press and the paps being creepy and invasive towards reader and Bucky, reader not eating as much cause she's too engrossed in her work, sexism and accusations that reader is only being kept on because Bucky thinks she's pretty, violence and threats of violence, and also mentions of Bucky's past, his trauma and his nightmares. As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know! Notes: Because I can't like anything normally, I heard this song and was immediately fucking obsessed, and a short Bucky drabble I had planned suddenly became an over 3k word fic. Was also reminiscing on how hot Bucky was as a short lived Congressman. Also googled why he was a Congressman just in case I could add something to the fic, and google was basically like "No idea." LMAO love being a MCU fan sometimes...not.
Divider by @firefly-graphics
The hotel room is meticulously and ornately decorated. Even though it’s small, it’s cosy, with all the essentials they need. It’s perfect for their overnight stay, but there’s one problem. Despite all its fancy decor, the room has only one double bed.
“I’ll take the couch. I’m sure it’s comfortable.” Y/N says, immediately. Bucky shakes his head.
“Absolutely not,” he declares, his voice firm. “I’ll take the couch.”
“Bucky, this mess is on me,” Y/N insists. “I deserve the couch.”
Working as Congressman Bucky Barnes’ personal assistant, Y/N gets to spend her days travelling the country alongside a literal superhero. And now, their professional relationship has developed, making him one of her closest friends… and the love of her life. However, she has no intention whatsoever of ever telling him. She’s more than happy being his friend and nothing more. And besides, she’s not even sure he likes her in that way anyway, especially since they’re from two different worlds.
After all, he practically admitted it himself when the press published an article all about her, digging through her background and trying to talk to the neighbours in her apartment block.
“Damn press.” He huffed, massaging his temples and running his hands through his brunette hair, pushing it back and tucking it behind his ears like he does when he’s stressed. Of course, after working with Bucky for so long, Y/N was already well aware of his habits. “I don’t want you to have anything to do with this, or with them. If you hear or see anything, you come to me, understand?”
“That's just what comes with the job.” She shrugged. Honestly though, the sheer volume of attention directed at her for the very first time was genuinely terrifying. “This morning, I saw them waiting for me outside my neighbourhood coffee shop.” She murmured.
Bucky sat up straight then, his eyes narrowed, and his jaw clenched. “They…what?” he hissed. Y/N had never seen him so angry… yet so calm at the same time. For a split second, she wondered if this tranquil fury is what he was like as The Winter Soldier, or when he was battling space monsters. “Get me the phone.”
“Bucky, I’m-”
“Y/N. Phone.” She handed it to him without another word. Before she could hear the call, another emergency ushered her out of the room. But she had an idea of what was said based on Bucky’s raised voice coming from his office.
Bucky surprised her with a new apartment in a quieter area of the city the very next day. Well… he didn’t technically pay for it himself. He just increased her pay so she could purchase it. And he didn’t say a single thing about it, or what it was for.
“You’ve been working hard. Here’s a raise.” he told her, handing over the cheque.
“I haven’t been working here that long; I thought I didn’t-”
“Y/N.” His voice was firm, cutting her off. “I insist.”
“I can’t take this,” she said, attempting to hand it back.
“You can, and you will.” he ordered, passing it back over.
“Surely this is better suited for-”
“I can’t think of anyone who deserves this more than my best employee. You know,” he began, sipping his coffee. “Not to change the subject, but the apartment building opposite mine has just had a place go up for sale. Two bedrooms, big bathroom and kitchen…it’s a quieter area of the city, near a park. It's like a gated community, really. Lots of famous people live there, so it's very private. ...No unwanted paps or journalists.”
She understood what he meant then, and felt her cheeks burning as she stumbled over her words, thanking him profusely for his generosity, but Bucky simply smiled. “Don’t worry about the press; I’ve got it covered. But for now…” he sighed. “Maybe it’s best if you stay away from me, and that we’re not photographed together, until things die down.”
“Oh.” she nodded. “Of course.” He’s right, she knows he is. But she can’t help but feel a small pang of hurt at how his thoughts immediately went to them keeping apart from each other. Despite being closer to Bucky than ever before, she can’t even walk down the street with him anymore.
But just as she turned to leave, she swears she caught a look of disappointment on Bucky's face.
That’s the problem with Bucky Barnes. He’s undeniably handsome, of course, but there’s always… something with him. Even though he seems to want to keep their friendship strictly professional and platonic, the way he looks at her always seems to say the opposite. His gaze always lingers on her for just a moment too long, and despite his demanding work, he always makes time to bring her both lunch and dinner, even if he only has seconds between meetings.
"I'm too busy right now to eat," she said one night, hunched over her laptop. "I have to prepare for-"
“No,” he replied instantly, cutting her off. “Now. You need to eat," he whispered, his voice gentle as he pushed the food towards her. Her favourite, of course. “I can’t have my best girl out of action.” He always does that. Calls her his favourite, insists that he can’t live without her. Nobody else is told that.
An ex-employee even scornfully called her out for being his favourite once. “It’s just because he thinks you’re pretty. You’re shit at your job, and he’ll see that I’m way more capable than you soon enough.” And he got right in her face, demanding to know if there was something more between them, sneering and mocking her.
In an instant, Bucky was between them, shoving him back, away from her, and protectively shielding her with his body. He was trying to remain professional, but Y/N could sense his simmering rage. “Back. Off.” Bucky hissed. “If you touch her again-”
“So what if I do?” the man sneered.
“I’ll fucking break your hand. That’s what.” Bucky responded, dragging the man to his office.
Y/N heard little of the dressing-down Bucky inflicted on him, but from the snippets she heard, Bucky was furious. The employee also didn’t last til the end of the day.
“You alright?” Bucky asked her afterwards, his voice full of concern, and she nodded.
“Y-Yeah, it’s nothing.”
“I wouldn’t call that nothing.”
“Bucky, he’s just jealous.”
“He’s an asshole.” he grunted, and she laughed, making his angry expression soften into a smile. “And he’s completely wrong. There’s nothing between us, we’re just friends.” Her smile faltered momentarily in disappointment, but she nodded.
“Y-Yeah…” Bucky’s eyebrow raised as he noticed her disappointment, but Y/N hastily claimed she needed to check her emails, turning away from him and hurrying back to her office.
And she’s lost count of the nights they’ve spent together, reviewing meeting notes, or just talking about anything and everything for hours. One night, she fell asleep in her office, hunched over some notes, and awoke to find a warm blanket carefully draped over her. He never admitted to it, of course, but Bucky was the only other person there that night. And when he calls her in the middle of the night, shaken by another nightmare, Y/N is there to listen and calm him down until he feels safe. Because that’s the relationship they have. They’re each other's chosen family, a bond full of unwavering support and unconditional love.
But considering everything else going on between them, is it really her fault for thinking there may be something more there?
"I'm sorry. I know this isn't how you wanted tonight to go." Y/N murmurs.
Tonight, they’re staying over before a conference, something they’ve done countless times before. However, with Y/N's extremely busy schedule leading up to the conference, she had to book the hotel at the last minute. This hotel was the only one within their price range… and it turns out the only available room they have is a double room. When they first found out there was only one bed, Y/N was mortified, and wanted the ground to swallow her whole.
“Sharing a room with you is not a punishment, Y/N.” Bucky whispers, and her heart skips a beat. She opens her mouth again, and he shakes his head, stopping her. “No buts. And no more apologies from now on, okay?”
“Well, I still can’t let you sleep on the couch when you have an important speech tomorrow.” She points out, and Bucky shrugs indifferently.
“I’ve slept on plenty of couches in my 110 years. It’s fine.” he insists, and Y/N sighs. Soon after they started working together, Bucky revealed his traumatic past to her. And it ignited in her a fierce desire to protect him from that happening to him ever again.
“Absolutely not.” She says, firmly. “I’m not letting you do it.”
“And I’m not letting you, either.” Bucky chuckles.
“So I suppose the only choice left is…”
"...We'll have to share." Bucky finishes for her. “You're sure it’s alright? I just want you to be comfortable.” His concern for her makes her heartbeat increase, and her knees go weak.
Or perhaps it’s the intoxicating thrill of sharing a bed with the man she’s had a crush on for years, her dreams of what it would be like to wake up next to him finally a tangible reality.
“Yeah, I’m okay.” She nods, trying to play it cool even though her heart is beating against her chest so hard she fears it could break through her ribs. To her surprise, Bucky seems much calmer than she is, only deepening her confusion.
Does he really still not see anything between them?
Later that night, as they both finish getting ready for bed, Bucky piles up the pillows in the middle of the bed, creating a soft barrier to separate them both. “Promise you’re alright?” he asks, his voice soft as they both get comfortable. “You want the fan on, or anything?”
“Bucky, it’s fine, honestly.” She smiles. He rolls over onto his side, his intense, icy blue eyes settling on her. He sighs.
“I’ll apologise in advance…in case I have nightmares again. I feel bad enough waking you up with a call, but I’d feel even worse if I woke you up when you’re right beside me.”
“You never have to apologise to me for that.” She smiles softly. “I told you I’m always here for you.”
“You’re too good to me.” he whispers.
“It’s my job.”
“No, it’s not. You do so much for me, and I don’t deserve you or your kindness.” He smiles over at her like she hung the moon, and as if she’s the most important thing in the world. And Y/N feels a warmth bloom in her chest, spreading throughout her body.
“Of course you do. You’re a great man, Bucky.” She insists. “And you’re going to keep saving the world.”
“Y/N, I….” he murmurs, so quietly she almost doesn’t hear him. Her heart starts to pound again. Could this be it? Is he going to admit his feelings?
“Yeah?” Bucky’s gaze flickers down, towards her lips, subtly biting his own lip. But then he clears his throat.
“...N-Nothing. Just…thanks.” He gives her a small smile. “It means a lot.”
“Oh…you’re welcome.” Y/N nods with a smile that doesn’t quite reach her eyes, pushing down her disappointment. “Goodnight, Bucky.” She says, turning away from him and snuggling under the covers. How much longer can she keep living like this? Wondering if he feels the same for her before she crumbles and just asks him how he feels? …or before she leaves for good?
Bucky keeps a watchful, protective eye over her until she falls asleep. Once he’s sure she’s asleep, he gently adjusts the cover over her, tucking her in and fluffing her pillow. “Goodnight, Y/N,” he whispers softly. “Sorry I’m such an idiot.”
The next morning, sunlight streams through the window and a crack in the curtain, illuminating both the room and Y/N and Bucky in a warm glow. In the night, the pillows set up between them collapsed, so they lay together, their bodies intertwined, and each one holding the other close. Y/N’s head rests on Bucky’s chest, her lips softly parted. His heartbeat is a steady rhythm in her ears, the comforting sound keeping her relaxed. Her eyes flutter open, and she gazes over at Bucky.
Bucky is still fast asleep. He looks so handsome, serene and at peace. His hair falls in soft curls, and she swears there’s a smile on his lips. She’s so close that she can see all the freckles and body marks dotting his skin, and for a moment, she links them together, creating a constellation. But then, Y/N suddenly realises where she is. Her eyes widen in shock, and her heart stops.
“Oh, fuck.” she whispers. Hearing her whisper, Bucky’s own eyes open, his gaze falling onto her.
“Oh…” he murmurs. “Well.” he chuckles, the sound husky and warm. “Good morning to you, too.” Her heart hammers against her ribs so rapidly that it feels it might break free from her chest, and the comforting warmth of Bucky’s skin turns ice cold. She looks at him, waiting for him to say something, anything, else. “So…you want some breakfast?”
Out of all the things she thought he would’ve said, that wasn’t one of them.
“What?!” she scoffs, still in shock, still wondering if he’s joking.
“Well, we need to get ready for the conference, so-”
“Are you serious?! I just woke up in your arms and you’re asking me if I’m hungry?” She demands incredulously, her voice trembling with barely contained anger. Bucky’s brow furrows, blinking in confusion.
“But-”
“You know what?” she huffs, deciding not to fight this battle right here, right now. “Yeah, I will have some breakfast.” She snaps, pulling herself free from Bucky's grasp, snatching her things and retreating into the bathroom, the door slamming behind her.
Unsurprisingly, breakfast and the conference are just as awkward and tense as the morning, with Y/N and Bucky not saying anything to each other aside from the occasional comment regarding the conference. Behind Y/N's polite facade for the cameras and attendees, her stomach churns, frustration pulsing through her veins.
Bucky walks up to her. “We need to talk.”
“I think you made your thoughts very clear, Congressman.” she responds.
“Y/N-” Bucky huffs, stopping only so the two of them can plaster on a polite smile for a passing photographer. “Please,” he pleads, his eyes wide with desperation. “I need to talk to you.” Her eyes meet his, and she sees the weariness and hope within, prompting a soft sigh to escape her lips. Those damn blue eyes.
“Okay, fine.” she nods. “I think there’s a quiet room somewhere.” Bucky follows her into the room, closing the door behind him.
“What’s going on?” he asks. “You’ve been acting weird all day.” she scoffs.
“You’re serious? You really don’t know?” Bucky shakes his head, and she rolls her eyes. “You constantly tell me I’m your favourite, saying you can’t live without me, and you keep fucking staring at me during meetings, dinners, and events. And you’re looking at me like I mean something to you, and that you want me, too, but you keep calling it platonic and looking away every time I look back. Which is fine, cause I know you’re a Congressman, and I don’t want to overstep,” she’s rambling now, her voice cracking as everything comes to the surface. She hates it, wanting to show him how angry she is, how he can’t keep playing with her emotions like this. But she can already feel tears stinging at her waterline. “But you keep doing it! So I think, oh, maybe it does mean something, and he just doesn’t want to tell me. Which again, is fine.” she insists.
Bucky hasn’t said anything yet. He’s just staring at her, only intensifying her anger. “T-Then you wake up with me in your arms, and pretend like it's just another morning. You didn’t say anything, just asked if I wanted breakfast! Stop sending me mixed signals, it’s fucking annoying! Are you falling for me, or not?” she asks.
Bucky laughs, smirking. “Am I falling for you?” he repeats. “What do you think?”
“Oh my god, Bucky, can you just say yes or no?!” she demands. “I’ve already spent months asking myself this, I can’t take it anymore.”
“Months?” he raises a brow, the grin never leaving his lips. “I never knew you spent so long wanting me.”
And with that, Y/N is done with this conversation. “God, just forget it.” she murmurs. However, as she begins to walk away, Bucky softly grabs her wrist, pulling her back slightly. Electricity tingles up her arm, spreading goosebumps all over her skin.
“Uh uh.” he shakes his head, his voice deeper. “I wasn’t finished talking.” Y/N nods, immediately feeling her heart drop to her stomach as a wave of dread floods over her. Oh god, she’s about to be so fucking fired.
“Sorry-”
“Doll.” Bucky leans in closer. “Shut up.”
“Excuse me?” she asks, incredulous.
“Quiet.” he whispers, the deep rhythm of his voice reverberating throughout her body. “I’m trying to answer your question, but I can’t do it if you keep running that gorgeous mouth of yours.” Her eyes widen in surprise, and her mouth becomes so dry she can't say another word. Bucky smiles. “Good girl, there we go.”
God, he’s going to be the death of her.
“As I was saying,” Bucky continues. “I’m not ‘falling’ for you.” Seeing her expression falter, he chuckles softly, running one of his human fingers down her jawline before stopping at her chin and gently lifting her face up towards him. His gaze, sharp and unwavering, pierces through her, causing her legs to tremble. Thank god Bucky is basically holding her up. “Because I’ve already fallen for you. Hook, line and fucking sinker. Ever since you came to work for me, that very first day.”
“But I thought you wanted to keep things professional? Why didn’t you say anything?”
“Of course I don’t. I want you, Y/N, and nobody else. God, that first day…” He laughs again, shaking his head. “You were talking to someone, I don’t remember who, or what you were talking about. But you had this smile on your face, so radiant and wide. I can’t even describe how beautiful you looked. And I was having a shitty day, but I just… felt compelled to look up, and then, I saw that smile. And I felt so much better. Y/N, you make me a better person, just by being around me.”
“Bucky, you’re already a good person. You don’t need me.”
“I do, though.” he murmurs. “You’re the best thing to ever happen to me. And god, I love you so damn much. I can’t do this without you.” He runs his free hand through his hair, sighing. “But I’ve got my own issues, and then there’s the whole Congressman thing, and the press and paparazzi are fucking nightmares. I’m a total idiot, you’re right. I shouldn’t have been stringing you along like that, and I regret it so much. But I just… kept quiet, and held back. Because I didn’t want to drag you into this, or assume you might like me back. I’m so sorry, I’ve been acting like an ass, and I completely understand if you don’t want to deal with it. If you want to quit, I’ll write you a glowing reference-”
Now it’s Y/N's turn to interrupt him. Stepping closer, she places her hands on Bucky’s shoulders, pulling him in. “...I want to stay. I want every moment I can get with you, Bucky.”
Bucky’s breath shudders. It’s almost funny, seeing the confident Congressman and superhero so flustered, especially around her. He leans in closer, their faces inches apart and his breath hot on her skin. A moment of silence hangs in the air. Bucky parts his lips, as if to ask if they’re really doing this, really crossing that line.
Because once they do this, there’s truly no going back.
But Y/N doesn’t let him ask it. She closes the distance between them, her lips meeting his in a silent, urgent kiss. Bucky pulls away a moment later. “Oh…sorry.” she murmurs. “I wasn’t thinking, I just, I wanted-”
“I want it too.” Is all Bucky says.
And then he stops holding back.
He returns his lips to hers, their kiss now filled with a deeper hunger and more intense passion. Pushing her against the wall, his hands descend to her waist, intensifying the kiss. Her fingers tangle in his hair, a silent plea for more. Every second feels like a minute, every minute like an hour. All thoughts of the conference fade into nothing. It’s just the two of them… because they’re the only ones who matter.
But soon, they have to break apart… albeit just to catch their breaths again. Their hearts pound against their ribs, and Bucky chuckles breathlessly, adjusting his tie and shirt.
“W-Wow…” Y/N gasps.
“I know.” he grins. “Still have any doubt?”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
Eeeeeepppp I loved this! Congressman Barnes 😍😍😍😍😍
Thank you so much!! And I know, he's so handsome 🤤
our little secret - thunderbolt/new avenger!bucky x female!reader
Plot: Disapproving of the public shipping Bucky Barnes with The New Avengers' assistant Y/N, Valentina orders them to stay apart, determined to keep the focus on the group... and by extension, herself. Unbeknownst to everyone, however, Bucky and Y/N have already been secretly dating for over a year. Y/N longs to go public and tell the world how much they love each other, but understands Bucky's reservations. Yet, the more Valentina meddles in their relationship with no pushback from him... the more she wonders if he even wants to be with her at all. Pairing: Thunderbolt/New Avenger!Bucky x Female!Reader Warnings: 18+ only please! Mention of reader and Bucky having a quickie in the bathroom. It's not detailed and is more fade to black before anything happens, but still! Valentina being a manipulative boss and meddling with reader and Bucky's relationship, the press and paparazzi being intrusive and gross, mentions of the hate/threats The New Avengers are getting, possessive and protective Bucky... but he's also an idiot in this I fear, and mild mentions of alcohol. Also lots of angst (but with a happy ending of course!). As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know! ...Also I'm not a fan of John Walker so he may be a bit of a dick in this, so sorry in advance to any fans of his. Notes: This fic took me FOREVER to write, but it's finally here. I hope you love it!! Divider by @firefly-graphics
The common room of The New Avengers Tower is a hub of activity and chatter. Yelena and Ava watch a movie, chatting about the plot, whilst Bob, John and Alexei play cards, the sound of a cheer or laugh occasionally filling the air. The door swings open, and Mel walks in, the sharp click of her heels echoing on the floor.
“Bucky,” she smiles, looking over at the super soldier who’s currently slumped on the couch and scrolling through his phone. “Valentina wants to see you in her office immediately, please.”
The room goes quiet. Valentina wanting to see you is never good news. And alone is even worse.
“What is this meeting? Valentina never told me about this?” Alexei frowns.
“Think it’s just for me, Alexei.” Bucky sighs wearily, pushing himself up.
“...And you too, please, Y/N.” Mel interrupts. Immediately, the New Avengers and Bob all turn their heads to stare at the two of them.
“Why? I’m not an Avenger-”
“You’re our assistant, though. Maybe you did something wrong-” John suggests, his familiar, condescending smirk playing on his lips. Thankfully, Yelena quickly whispers a:
“Shut the fuck up.” and Y/N shoots her a grateful look.
Valentina’s office is pristine, full of polished marble and velvet. Y/N has always hated it. It’s like she’s just waiting for people to screw up. Any mistake, any spill would be visible, no matter how tiny. Both in this office and in real life.
“Close the door. Please don’t scuff the floors, I just had those put in.” Valentina says, spinning around in her chair to face them. Y/N can’t help but wonder if Valentina knows how much she looks like a supervillain when she does that. Knowing her, she’d probably relish it. Valentina sips from a glass of champagne, her eyes narrowing as the two approach her.
“Hello, Valentina.” Y/N nods. Bucky already looks bored with this whole thing, but murmurs his own greeting. “You wanted to see us?”
“Care to explain this?” Valentina ignores their greeting, and slides an iPad across the desk. The image shows Y/N and Bucky attending a recent gala. The picture captures Y/N, her head thrown back in laughter at something Bucky is saying, and he’s grinning as he looks over at her. Y/N's smile grows as she looks at the picture, warmth spreading in her stomach from the happy memory.
“It’s a picture of Y/N and I from the last gala.” Bucky grunts.
“Yes, I know that,” Valentina replies with a dismissive tsk. “Mel, you were supposed to- whatever.” With an exasperated huff, she swipes to the next image. “I meant these.”
The screen is full of comments left on the post. Of course, Y/N’s seen most of them, considering her job as an assistant for The New Avengers.
However, these comments all focus on one specific thing.
User 1: Y/N and Bucky are so cute together. They’d really be a great couple. Reply: Right?! The way he looks at her!!! User 2: Has anyone else noticed how much Bucky, the grumpy ex-assassin, smiles around Y/N??? IT’S SO CUUUUTE!!! User 3: WE WANT Y/N AND BUCKY!!! User 4: Anyone have any ship name ideas? User 5: They’re WAY more interesting than the Thunderbolts, or whatever they’re called now #sorrynotsorry
“Those aren't the only comments. And Mel has informed me that there are TikTok videos and fan accounts dedicated to you, too. It appears people are shipping you both.” Valentina's brow arches as she looks at them both. Bucky furrows his brow, a look of confusion crossing his face.
“Shipping us where?”
“Jesus Christ, how old are you?!" Valentina rubs her temple, irritated. “It means they want you two to be a couple. Mel told me that.” Y/N is about to call out the hypocrisy of her scolding Bucky for his own lack of understanding, but Valentina’s icy glare and Mel’s frantic head shake, warning her to stop, stop her. "Well?" She prompts, raising her brow as she looks at the pair expectantly.
“Well…what?” Bucky asks, his brow furrowed.
“What do you two have to say for yourselves?”
"Well, I didn’t know so many people see us that way..." Y/N explains. Even though she loves her job, she finds it incredibly jarring to realise how visible she is and how much Valentina and others scrutinise and try to dictate her every move.
“Sorry, why is this a bad thing?” Bucky asks. “They just want us to be together; it’s not like they’re sending us death threats or hate, like usual.”
“It doesn’t matter!” Valentina snaps. “The focus is supposed to be on the New Avengers as a group, not their dating lives. You saw it yourselves; someone said you two are way more interesting than the group! We’ve done so much, and yet the focus is always on you two.” She looks between them both, her eyes narrowed with suspicion. Y/N’s heart jumps into her throat. Whenever Valentina is in one of her moods, it’s best to steer clear. And she’s never seen her this frustrated before. “So.” She sips some more champagne, clearing her throat. “I want you two to stay apart from each other.”
“What?” Y/N gasps. “You can’t do that! My job is being an assistant for The New Avengers! It’s my job to be with him all the time!”
“I was going to say you stay away from him, aside from the bare minimum duties of your job, if you’d have let me finish.” Valentina hisses.
“That’s not fair, you can’t punish her for-” Bucky, always the hero, steps in.
“As your boss, I can and I will.” Valentina counters. “Now, I have to go to a meeting, so you two can talk amongst yourselves. I’m sure we’ll come to an understanding on this.” She smiles, her expression ice cold. “I trust you know the way out.” Y/N and Bucky take their cue to leave, the door slamming shut behind them.
“I can’t believe she’s done this.” Y/N murmurs, still in shock.
“I know.” Bucky hisses. His hand moves as if to comfort her, but he notices the cameras above them, quickly letting it fall back to his side. “Come on. Let’s…talk this out.” he urges, guiding her to another, more secluded room in the compound.
“Are you sure it’s alright in here? That there are no cameras?” Bucky laughs.
“Y/N, I’m an ex-assassin. I know how to spot a camera. This place is a total blackout, we’ll be undetectable.”
The door clicks shut, and their mouths immediately meet in an intense, passionate kiss. Bucky’s lips kiss down her neck, a playful smirk on his face. “God, you look so gorgeous today.” He whispers, his breath hot against her skin. “It’s so hard to keep my hands off you. You know what you do to me, hm?”
“Watch out you don’t leave any hickeys. Then she really will get pissed at us.” Y/N says, and he laughs again, the sound warm and deep.
“Screw her.”
Y/N and Bucky’s secret relationship started long before that gala. Their relationship began when he joined the Thunderbolts. At first, Y/N found it so romantic and thrilling, that even though Valentina and the others want to know everything about each other, she and Bucky could have this one little thing to themselves, a fuck you to Valentina after all the demands and cruel words she's inflicted on them so far.
“We have to keep it a secret.” Bucky had said, kissing the top of her head as they laid on her couch on one of the first nights they spent together. “The last thing I want is Valentina interfering in our private lives.” And Y/N agreed. She thought it was a great idea, a moment of rebellion.
But now, she’s not so sure. Because it sure feels like Valentina is already messing with their private lives. And now Valentina’s aware of how people want them to be together, it could only get worse.
“Bucky, wait.” She says. Immediately, he stops, pulling away from her.
“Are you okay? I’m sorry, did I go too far?” His blue eyes sweep over her, checking she’s okay. He’s so caring, so perfect in every way. How could she ever let him go? Stay away from him as if he means nothing, just because of Valentina?
“No, you’re great. You’re perfect, actually.” He raises a brow, taking her hands in his.
“What’s wrong, gorgeous?” her nickname. She always feels herself melting at that, and at how Bucky immediately knows something is wrong with her without her even having to say she isn’t feeling okay. “Is it because of what Valentina said?” He asks, and she nods.
“I just…she’s going to be more vigilant now, and if she finds out about us-”
“She’s not going to,” Bucky insists, shaking his head. “Sure, maybe we have to spend less time together in public, but this is really no different from how we usually act: being friendly to each other in public, and being together behind closed doors. And besides, we've been doing this for over a year, haven't we?” He lifts her hands, kissing both her knuckles. “I hate it too, but I still get to see you and know you’re mine, and only mine.”
“I guess you’re right.” She murmurs. With a gentle smile, Bucky pecks her forehead.
“I promise you, everything will be alright.” He whispers, giving her hand a soft squeeze. Y/N nods, squeezing back… but she still doesn’t feel reassured.
A few weeks after Valentina’s demand, The New Avengers are at a press conference. Off to the side, Y/N scans the room, trying not to focus on Bucky for too long, even though it’s impossible to ignore him today. His curly hair is pulled back partway in a man bun, a few loose tendrils slipping out and framing his face. His suit flexes against his muscles and his metal arm, the material clinging to his biceps.
“God.” she thinks, feeling her throat going dry. “Valentina may be an insufferable bitch who’s interfering with my boyfriend and I’s relationship, but fuck me, she knows how to make him look good.” Y/N almost had a heart attack when she saw him for the first time today, and had to bite down hard on her tongue to compose herself. She feels herself automatically doing it now, as she pictures her and Bucky together, clinging to each other as they kiss, wanting to take things further right then and there. And then Bucky is unbuckling his belt and pulling his trousers down, even though they both know they shouldn’t be doing this….
And even though they had already done exactly that in the bathroom earlier. Fortunately, they’re both well accustomed to quickies in the bathroom and how to remain undetected.
As she scans the room, her eyes land on a member of the press. She’s crossed paths with him a few times. His name’s Tommy, and he’s the entertainment editor for some big gossip magazine. The New Avengers fill their pages a lot.
But that’s mainly because Valentina pays a lot for the privilege.
His eyes land on hers, and he gives her a smile. In response, she gives him a small nod back before going back to checking the room.
When she looks back, Tommy is still looking at her. Y/N suppresses the urge to grimace. She's met Tommy's type before: smooth-talking sleazeballs, eager to wine and dine you for a story, only to drop you the moment you’re no longer valuable. And Y/N refuses to be his next victim.
“Hey, Y/N, right?” He smiles, walking over to her as she gathers her notes at the end of the conference.
“I’ve literally met you like five times already, you ass. How do you not know my name?” She thinks, but plasters on a dazzling smile. “Yes, that’s me. So nice to see you again, Tommy.” she says, shaking his hand.
“You haven't changed your mind about that dinner offer yet?” He chuckles, and Y/N shakes her head, suppressing the urge to roll her eyes. Because of course he can’t be bothered to remember her name, yet he magically remembers all the gossip about The New Avengers and Valentina she must have.
“As I’ve told you before, if you want an interview, let Valentina know and we can schedule a time. I don’t do solo dinner dates with gossip columnists. That’s just asking for trouble.” She retorts, her tone politely joking, yet her words biting.
Even with her back turned, she can feel Bucky's intense gaze boring a hole into Tommy. She can also sense the tightness in his jaw and the stiffness of his posture.
Quickly, she glances back to Bucky. Sure enough, he’s trying to mask his anger. If looks could kill, Tommy would be a dead man. Thankfully, nobody seems to have picked up on Bucky’s anger, and Y/N gives him a quick: “Don’t.” look. Bucky doesn’t respond, but gives her a look of his own, one saying they’re definitely going to talk about this later.
“Speaking of, I have to go. Bye.” she says, turning on her heel and walking towards the others.
In the limo back to the tower, Ava chuckles, raising her brow. “What happened with you and that reporter guy, Y/N? He was making eyes at you again.”
“Ach! Yes, it was very distracting. The attention is supposed to be on us!” Alexei says disapprovingly.
“He’s not a reporter, Ava.” Y/N scoffs. “He just wants to stir up trouble and gossip, which he’s not going to get. And nobody could ever steal the attention away from you, Alexei.” Y/N reassures. Bucky still hasn’t taken his eyes off her.
“Good.” he nods. “Mister Soldier!” Alexei turns his attention to Bucky, clapping him on the shoulder. “You are very quiet, you know, it’s unnerving me a little. What do you think about the conference?”
“We all know what he thinks.” John smirks, his eyes flickering to Y/N, and the girls chuckle. Y/N clears her throat, swallowing hard.
“Shut up, John.” Bucky hisses. Thankfully, before they can say anything else, the limo pulls back up at the tower. Everyone hurries out, eager to relax and be out of the spotlight for a while.
“Wait...What does he think?” Alexei frowns, trailing behind.
Later that evening, as Y/N walks back to her office, Bucky appears from a secluded hallway, pulling her down it. “Jeez, you need to be more subtle with these things.” she jokes. Bucky doesn’t laugh.
“The way that asshole looked at you today. It makes me sick.” he says, his voice deep, and angry. “He looks at you like you’re nothing more than a piece of meat. God, I hate him.”
“Yeah, I could tell. Bucky, you need to be more careful, we both do! I already think John and the girls suspect something is up with us.”
“You’re my girlfriend, not his.” Bucky hisses, kissing her. But instead of kissing back, Y/N pulls away.
“I want to be yours. In public.” She says, and Bucky frowns.
“But we can’t, remember? If Valentina-”
“Are you even listening to me, Bucky? People are already suspecting us. People we see every day! Maybe…we should work out a way to tell people. Not everyone, just people we trust.”
“And you trust people in this tower?” He raises a brow. “Do you really trust someone like Alexei to keep our secret?”
“I trust Mel! She helped you, remember?” Y/N points out. “And I’ve had enough cocktails and gossip sessions with her, I’m sure she’d keep our secret. Hell, she probably understands us, too!” Seeing the look on Bucky’s face, Y/N sighs. “Bucky, please. I don’t want to live like this forever, wondering if I can hold your hand… if I can go outside with you, on a date, not just a work thing. Can you at least consider it?”
Bucky shakes his head. Seeing the hurt look on her face, Bucky’s eyes widen. “No. Shit, sorry. Not no, because I don’t want to go public with you, because I do.” He rambles, fidgeting with his hair. “Just…n-not yet, at least. I want to show you off, too. So, so badly. But I know what Valentina’s like, we both do. And I can’t lose you, or let her keep us apart.”
“Even though she already is?” Y/N murmurs. He sighs, softly kissing her forehead.
“I’m sorry, gorgeous. I do want to show you off, fuck, I wanna scream from the rooftops that I’m dating someone as incredible as you, but we just need to find the right time to say it.” He squeezes her hand, kissing her lips just as softly, continuing until he hits just the right spot. “I promise, we’ll go public soon.” he whispers, kissing her again.
Yet… even as she melts into his kiss, deep down, part of Y/N still doesn’t believe him.
Sure enough, the more the weeks go on, the longer Bucky keeps their secret relationship going. And the more Y/N considers cutting her losses and leaving. She loves Bucky, of course she does. She loves him more than anything in the world. But there’s only so many times you can see other couples holding hands, hugging, kissing and saying sweet things to each other in public whilst your own boyfriend keeps telling you he can’t do that with you before you think it’s something that you’re doing.
And their need to keep apart from each other for Valentina isn’t working either. In fact, the fans are clamouring for them even more, causing Valentina to keep driving the wedge further and further between them, like sending Bucky on remote solo missions, or keeping Y/N buried under a mound of paperwork in her office.
And yet, Bucky still isn’t doing anything about it. Not that Y/N is either, but ironically, it seems Valentina is the most invested person in their relationship, even when she’s trying to keep them apart.
It all comes to a head one day when Y/N is picking up coffee. As soon as she enters the coffee shop, she’s immediately aware of all the couples around her. Giggles, hand-holding, gazing into each other's eyes… everything she can’t do with Bucky. Bitterness swirls in her stomach, an acidic, destructive force which she tries to push down, but after so long pushing it down, it’s refusing to stay buried. To take her mind off things, she flicks through the stack of magazines beside the counter whilst she waits for the coffee. But then, a headline catches her eye, causing her eyes to widen in surprise. There, bold and right in her face, are the words:
“The dating life of superhero James Buchanan ‘Bucky’ Barnes. Valentina Allegra de Fontaine comments!”
The article is mostly guesswork, implying that Bucky may have something with random women he’s photographed with, whether they’re women he saved or people he met on the street. Most of the article is dedicated to Y/N herself, with a large paragraph and multiple photos describing her and Bucky’s chemistry and potential relationship. But as promised, there’s also a paragraph from Valentina, where she comments on the rumours and seems to imply there may be more to things than meets the eye. Y/N clenches the magazine in a vice-like grip, the bitterness, rage, and hurt building and growing, creating a dangerous Molotov cocktail ready to explode.
“Can I take this?” she asks the barista, practically through gritted teeth. “...Please?” The barista nods, slightly unnerved by the look of pure rage on Y/N’s face.
Back in the tower, Y/N dumps the coffee in the common room without another word, turning on her heel and storming out without so much as a hello.
“...What the hell’s her problem?” John frowns.
Y/N storms down the hallway, her fists clenched. Mel’s eyes widen as she sees her approaching, noticing the fire in her eyes.
“Y/N, Valentina’s about to leave, can you do this later? She has to-”
“Oh, she’ll make time for me.” Y/N snaps, opening the door and letting it bang against the wall. Valentina peers up from her desk, her brow raised.
“Good morning to you, too.” Y/N slams the magazine down onto the desk, the pages still open on the article.
“What the hell is this? Why wasn’t I consulted on this?”
“Now, come Y/N, you must know this is an inevitable part of celebrity life.” She chuckles condescendingly, only pissing Y/N off more.
“You told us to stay apart, because you didn’t want the press to focus on their personal lives!” she’s shaking now, grinding her teeth to dust. “But you yourself are more than happy to go to… Tommy and give your side?!”
“Well, he called me, said you weren’t giving him anything useful. What else was I supposed to do?”
“Because you-” she hisses, stopping herself before she breaks something. “You told me you wanted to control the narrative and focus only on their missions!”
“Well, what do you expect? I am controlling the narrative.” She smirks. “Don’t be so upset, you have the biggest paragraph, and I made sure you looked good.”
Y/N scoffs. Of course. Of fucking course she’s only thinking about herself. She always is, even at the expense of everyone else.
And Y/N’s had enough.
“I’m done with this. I quit.” She says. Valentina splutters, choking on her drink, shocked. “Effective immediately.”
“Excuse me? You can’t-”
“I can, and I will.” Y/N retorts.
“I must say, this is a really inconvenient time to quit, especially with the gala coming up this week.” Valentina points out, and Y/N rolls her eyes, no longer concerned about offending her.
“I’ve done most of the work for it, anyway. Like usual.”
“And you want to let all that work go to waste?” Valentina stammers, clearly grasping at straws to get her to stay. Seeing how sure Y/N is about this, she sighs. “Okay, fine. At least stay till the gala and help run it, please? After that, you’re free to go wherever you want.”
“Fine.” Y/N nods. “And you’ll write me a glowing reference. Deal?”
“...Deal.” Y/N smiles, nodding. She’s glad to see Valentina like this - bending to her every whim for once.
But as she turns to leave, Valentina can’t help but stab the knife in her back… and twist it for good measure. “And this way, you have time to say goodbye to everyone. Especially Bucky.”
Y/N sighs, not even turning to face her, refusing to give her the satisfaction of seeing her pain. Even though she can already feel herself about to crumble.
“Eat shit, Valentina.”
Meanwhile, Bucky is in the gym, completely unaware of everything going on. He unleashes a flurry of kicks and punches on the punching bag, sending it flying. He’s focused, absorbed in his own world. That is, however, until he takes a break for some water and finds Yelena standing right behind him.
“Jesus. You always sneak up on people like that?”
“You’re one to talk.”
“Fair.” he chuckles, wiping the sweat from his brow.
“Okay, spill.” Yelena orders.
“I’d rather not,” Bucky responds with a teasing grin, sipping his water.
“Ha ha.” she says flatly. “I meant about you and Y/N.”
“What about us?”
“Oh, come on, Bucky. You’re really not subtle. It’s obvious, really.” When he ignores her, she rolls her eyes, letting out an exasperated sigh. “Did Mel tell you Y/N’s quitting?”
That gets his attention. Bucky jolts, sending his water flying everywhere. “Fuck-wait, w-what did you just say?”
“You heard me. Mel told me earlier. Y/N went to Valentina and said she quit.”
“If I swear, you’re lying to me, Yel-”
“Why the fuck would I lie about that?” Yelena raises a brow.
“But why would-”
“Maybe it’s because she’s madly in love with you, but you’ve been letting Valentina mess with your relationship and treat the two of you like a doormat?” Bucky doesn’t respond, bolting out of the room in search of Y/N. He feels his entire world collapsing beneath him. His chest constricts, and he blinks rapidly, trying to make sense of it all, or fight back the tears.
He finds Y/N in her office, meticulously packing her things away. “You’re leaving?” He asks, his mind still reeling.
“Yes. I am,” she responds, not even looking at him. “My last night is the gala on Friday.”
“But why?” he asks, stepping closer. “I thought things were good between us, that we were happy.”
“You were.” She answers with a biting remark. She still hasn’t looked at him, even though she's breaking his heart. Pain and anger build within Bucky, the mixture swirling in his gut.
“What the hell’s that supposed to mean?”
“Have you seen this?” she pushes the magazine over to him. Bucky scans the page, his eyes narrowing when he realises what it says.
“Oh my- what the fuck is wrong with her?”
“Yup. God forbid she’s not the one controlling the narrative.” She scoffs, rolling her eyes. She still hasn’t looked at him.
“...So you’re leaving because of that? A gossip article?”
“No, Bucky, I’m not leaving just because of that. That,” she spits out, her voice laced with resentment. “Is just the tip of a fucking iceberg.” Bucky’s brow furrows. He’s still hurt - hurt that she’s leaving, hurt that he had to find out from Yelena of all people, hurt that his strong, beautiful girlfriend would be so upset by a fucking gossip tabloid. But most of all, hurt that she still won’t fucking look at him.
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“I’ve told you multiple times how unhappy I was with all of this.” she retorts.
“I meant that you’re leaving!” he bites back. “You know, not even telling me, or even thinking about how I feel is pretty selfish.” he snaps.
“I’M the one being selfish?!” she scoffs, finally looking at him. Her eyes blaze with a fury and pain he’s never seen before. “I’m selfish because I want to hold hands with you in public? Because I want to tell everyone you’re my boyfriend, regardless of what Valentina says?” she scoffs. “Because I’m fucking tired of people, of you,” she spits, her voice breaking. “Letting Valentina control us?” And finally, Bucky understands. And it breaks his damn heart.
“Y/N, I…” he murmurs. He doesn’t even know what to say.
“I love you, Bucky, and it feels like you never want to show it. Like you love the secret part of our relationship more than you love me.”
“That’s not true, you know it’s not.” He insists, his own voice breaking. He steps closer, reaching out for her.
“Don’t I? Then why won’t you tell me in public? O-Or stand up to Valentina?”
“...It’s not that easy, she’s my boss, and-”
“That’s what I thought.” she sniffles, picking up her box of things and walking to the door.
Bucky wants to stop her. To pull her into his arms and kiss her. To tell her he’s sorry, that he’s being an asshole. Because of course, he loves her. Of course he wants to show her off to the world.
But he just… can’t.
So, he just lets her go.
Later, Bucky sits alone at the table, his head in his hands as the weight of everything presses down on him. The other New Avengers watch him, not wanting to say anything, or unsure of what to say.
“Stop looking at me like I’m fragile.” he grunts, breaking the silence. “You all know about Y/N and me, and that she quit.”
“And she dumped you.” Ava chimes in. “Because you were being an ass.”
“Thanks.” Bucky huffs, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “I was though, you’re right.”
“So, what are you going to do?” Yelena asks.
“...I just don’t know,” he lets out a resigned sigh. “I love her so much. She’s my whole damn world, and I’ve really screwed up. I’ll see her at the gala on Friday, but god knows if she’ll even want to see me.” But then, he has an idea. “Guys… I need your help.”
That Friday, the gala is in full swing. The room, decorated with expensive chandeliers and opulent floral arrangements, is full of laughter, chatter and music. Y/N stands alone in the corner, sipping her drink. This whole situation with Bucky has really brought to her attention how alone she feels in these places, always on the outside looking in.
Y/N’s eyes drift to the other side of the room, locking eyes with Bucky. Her breath hitches in her throat. He looks so good, dressed to the nines in a sharp, fitted suit, exuding charm and sophistication. And god, she misses him so fucking badly.
He makes his way over to her, giving her a soft smile. “Hi.” Somehow, he looks even better up close. He even smells sophisticated.
“Hey Bucky.”
“You look…” he chuckles softly, breathless. “Fucking incredible.” A faint smile graces her lips, and she even gives him a little twirl.
“Thanks. You look great too.”
“Y/N, I’m so sorry for what happened. I messed up, and you’re right-”
“Well, hello you two.” Valentina says, and Bucky huffs. Valentina walks up to them both, her smile as cold as ice. “Almost time for your speech, Bucky.” she smiles.
“You’re doing a speech?” Y/N’s brow furrows. “Nobody told me-”
“He sure is.” Valentina cuts in, placing a hand on his arm and giving Y/N a look that seems to say ‘I win.’ “And he better go.” Bucky gives Y/N one last look, then walks off. Y/N’s heart sinks.
“Glad to see you came.” Valentina smiles. “Although I’m not sure why you’re surprised nobody told you about Bucky’s speech. You did quit last minute.”
“I said I would come.” Y/N retorts, refusing to take the bait Valentina’s dangling in front of her. If she confronts her here, Valentina can easily twist the narrative against her, and she refuses to let her have any hold over her anymore.
“Sure you don’t want to come back? You planned an excellent party, I must admit. Didn’t realise you had it in you.” She’s a master at that. Of making compliments feel like poison.
“I’m sure.” Valentina opens her mouth, but before she can say anything, Bucky clears his throat, and his voice fills the air.
“Good evening, all. Thank you for coming.” His eyes scan the room again, landing on Y/N and Valentina. “This night wouldn’t be possible without the incredible woman who organised it all,” Valentina’s smile grows, and Y/N rolls her eyes. “My girlfriend, Y/N.” The room goes silent, save for Valentina sputtering on her wine.
“What?!” she demands.
“What?” Y/N gasps.
“You may have seen an article in a magazine a few days ago about my dating life, one Y/N and I were never consulted about. But Valentina was.” His eyes narrow. “And I’ve decided that I’m tired of letting this woman control my life, and coming between Y/N and I.”
The entire room turns to look at them both. Valentina goes bright red, stammering as she tries to form a coherent sentence. Y/N can’t say anything, still in shock. She considers pinching herself to see if she’s dreaming, but can’t even muster the strength to do that, either. “Y/N.” Bucky sighs. “I’m so, so sorry I let Valentina come between us, and didn’t tell the entire world that I love you, like you deserve. So…” he smiles. “I love you, Y/N. So, so much. You’re the best thing that ever happened to me, and I want to show you off to the world and do everything with you, too. In public, because I want everyone to know how happy I am. And it’s all because of you. I’ve been such an asshole, and you deserve so much better. And again, I’m so, so sorry. I totally understand if you never want to see me again, or take me back. But will you please consider giving me another chance?”
In response, Y/N walks over to him, pulling him into a kiss. The room descends into chaos, and she registers cameras flashing around them, but she and Bucky don’t care. “Of course I will.” she whispers, pecking his lips. “...I didn’t expect this public, though.” She giggles softly. Bucky smiles.
“It’s the least you deserve.”
“God, I love you.”
“I love you too.” He kisses her again, and the press go wild. “Now, come on.” He takes her hand, interlocking their fingers. “We’ve got a lot of time to make up for.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
This was cute!
Thank you so much!! ☺️❤️
our little secret - thunderbolt/new avenger!bucky x female!reader
Plot: Disapproving of the public shipping Bucky Barnes with The New Avengers' assistant Y/N, Valentina orders them to stay apart, determined to keep the focus on the group... and by extension, herself. Unbeknownst to everyone, however, Bucky and Y/N have already been secretly dating for over a year. Y/N longs to go public and tell the world how much they love each other, but understands Bucky's reservations. Yet, the more Valentina meddles in their relationship with no pushback from him... the more she wonders if he even wants to be with her at all. Pairing: Thunderbolt/New Avenger!Bucky x Female!Reader Warnings: 18+ only please! Mention of reader and Bucky having a quickie in the bathroom. It's not detailed and is more fade to black before anything happens, but still! Valentina being a manipulative boss and meddling with reader and Bucky's relationship, the press and paparazzi being intrusive and gross, mentions of the hate/threats The New Avengers are getting, possessive and protective Bucky... but he's also an idiot in this I fear, and mild mentions of alcohol. Also lots of angst (but with a happy ending of course!). As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know! ...Also I'm not a fan of John Walker so he may be a bit of a dick in this, so sorry in advance to any fans of his. Notes: This fic took me FOREVER to write, but it's finally here. I hope you love it!! Divider by @firefly-graphics
The common room of The New Avengers Tower is a hub of activity and chatter. Yelena and Ava watch a movie, chatting about the plot, whilst Bob, John and Alexei play cards, the sound of a cheer or laugh occasionally filling the air. The door swings open, and Mel walks in, the sharp click of her heels echoing on the floor.
“Bucky,” she smiles, looking over at the super soldier who’s currently slumped on the couch and scrolling through his phone. “Valentina wants to see you in her office immediately, please.”
The room goes quiet. Valentina wanting to see you is never good news. And alone is even worse.
“What is this meeting? Valentina never told me about this?” Alexei frowns.
“Think it’s just for me, Alexei.” Bucky sighs wearily, pushing himself up.
“...And you too, please, Y/N.” Mel interrupts. Immediately, the New Avengers and Bob all turn their heads to stare at the two of them.
“Why? I’m not an Avenger-”
“You’re our assistant, though. Maybe you did something wrong-” John suggests, his familiar, condescending smirk playing on his lips. Thankfully, Yelena quickly whispers a:
“Shut the fuck up.” and Y/N shoots her a grateful look.
Valentina’s office is pristine, full of polished marble and velvet. Y/N has always hated it. It’s like she’s just waiting for people to screw up. Any mistake, any spill would be visible, no matter how tiny. Both in this office and in real life.
“Close the door. Please don’t scuff the floors, I just had those put in.” Valentina says, spinning around in her chair to face them. Y/N can’t help but wonder if Valentina knows how much she looks like a supervillain when she does that. Knowing her, she’d probably relish it. Valentina sips from a glass of champagne, her eyes narrowing as the two approach her.
“Hello, Valentina.” Y/N nods. Bucky already looks bored with this whole thing, but murmurs his own greeting. “You wanted to see us?”
“Care to explain this?” Valentina ignores their greeting, and slides an iPad across the desk. The image shows Y/N and Bucky attending a recent gala. The picture captures Y/N, her head thrown back in laughter at something Bucky is saying, and he’s grinning as he looks over at her. Y/N's smile grows as she looks at the picture, warmth spreading in her stomach from the happy memory.
“It’s a picture of Y/N and I from the last gala.” Bucky grunts.
“Yes, I know that,” Valentina replies with a dismissive tsk. “Mel, you were supposed to- whatever.” With an exasperated huff, she swipes to the next image. “I meant these.”
The screen is full of comments left on the post. Of course, Y/N’s seen most of them, considering her job as an assistant for The New Avengers.
However, these comments all focus on one specific thing.
User 1: Y/N and Bucky are so cute together. They’d really be a great couple. Reply: Right?! The way he looks at her!!! User 2: Has anyone else noticed how much Bucky, the grumpy ex-assassin, smiles around Y/N??? IT’S SO CUUUUTE!!! User 3: WE WANT Y/N AND BUCKY!!! User 4: Anyone have any ship name ideas? User 5: They’re WAY more interesting than the Thunderbolts, or whatever they’re called now #sorrynotsorry
“Those aren't the only comments. And Mel has informed me that there are TikTok videos and fan accounts dedicated to you, too. It appears people are shipping you both.” Valentina's brow arches as she looks at them both. Bucky furrows his brow, a look of confusion crossing his face.
“Shipping us where?”
“Jesus Christ, how old are you?!" Valentina rubs her temple, irritated. “It means they want you two to be a couple. Mel told me that.” Y/N is about to call out the hypocrisy of her scolding Bucky for his own lack of understanding, but Valentina’s icy glare and Mel’s frantic head shake, warning her to stop, stop her. "Well?" She prompts, raising her brow as she looks at the pair expectantly.
“Well…what?” Bucky asks, his brow furrowed.
“What do you two have to say for yourselves?”
"Well, I didn’t know so many people see us that way..." Y/N explains. Even though she loves her job, she finds it incredibly jarring to realise how visible she is and how much Valentina and others scrutinise and try to dictate her every move.
“Sorry, why is this a bad thing?” Bucky asks. “They just want us to be together; it’s not like they’re sending us death threats or hate, like usual.”
“It doesn’t matter!” Valentina snaps. “The focus is supposed to be on the New Avengers as a group, not their dating lives. You saw it yourselves; someone said you two are way more interesting than the group! We’ve done so much, and yet the focus is always on you two.” She looks between them both, her eyes narrowed with suspicion. Y/N’s heart jumps into her throat. Whenever Valentina is in one of her moods, it’s best to steer clear. And she’s never seen her this frustrated before. “So.” She sips some more champagne, clearing her throat. “I want you two to stay apart from each other.”
“What?” Y/N gasps. “You can’t do that! My job is being an assistant for The New Avengers! It’s my job to be with him all the time!”
“I was going to say you stay away from him, aside from the bare minimum duties of your job, if you’d have let me finish.” Valentina hisses.
“That’s not fair, you can’t punish her for-” Bucky, always the hero, steps in.
“As your boss, I can and I will.” Valentina counters. “Now, I have to go to a meeting, so you two can talk amongst yourselves. I’m sure we’ll come to an understanding on this.” She smiles, her expression ice cold. “I trust you know the way out.” Y/N and Bucky take their cue to leave, the door slamming shut behind them.
“I can’t believe she’s done this.” Y/N murmurs, still in shock.
“I know.” Bucky hisses. His hand moves as if to comfort her, but he notices the cameras above them, quickly letting it fall back to his side. “Come on. Let’s…talk this out.” he urges, guiding her to another, more secluded room in the compound.
“Are you sure it’s alright in here? That there are no cameras?” Bucky laughs.
“Y/N, I’m an ex-assassin. I know how to spot a camera. This place is a total blackout, we’ll be undetectable.”
The door clicks shut, and their mouths immediately meet in an intense, passionate kiss. Bucky’s lips kiss down her neck, a playful smirk on his face. “God, you look so gorgeous today.” He whispers, his breath hot against her skin. “It’s so hard to keep my hands off you. You know what you do to me, hm?”
“Watch out you don’t leave any hickeys. Then she really will get pissed at us.” Y/N says, and he laughs again, the sound warm and deep.
“Screw her.”
Y/N and Bucky’s secret relationship started long before that gala. Their relationship began when he joined the Thunderbolts. At first, Y/N found it so romantic and thrilling, that even though Valentina and the others want to know everything about each other, she and Bucky could have this one little thing to themselves, a fuck you to Valentina after all the demands and cruel words she's inflicted on them so far.
“We have to keep it a secret.” Bucky had said, kissing the top of her head as they laid on her couch on one of the first nights they spent together. “The last thing I want is Valentina interfering in our private lives.” And Y/N agreed. She thought it was a great idea, a moment of rebellion.
But now, she’s not so sure. Because it sure feels like Valentina is already messing with their private lives. And now Valentina’s aware of how people want them to be together, it could only get worse.
“Bucky, wait.” She says. Immediately, he stops, pulling away from her.
“Are you okay? I’m sorry, did I go too far?” His blue eyes sweep over her, checking she’s okay. He’s so caring, so perfect in every way. How could she ever let him go? Stay away from him as if he means nothing, just because of Valentina?
“No, you’re great. You’re perfect, actually.” He raises a brow, taking her hands in his.
“What’s wrong, gorgeous?” her nickname. She always feels herself melting at that, and at how Bucky immediately knows something is wrong with her without her even having to say she isn’t feeling okay. “Is it because of what Valentina said?” He asks, and she nods.
“I just…she’s going to be more vigilant now, and if she finds out about us-”
“She’s not going to,” Bucky insists, shaking his head. “Sure, maybe we have to spend less time together in public, but this is really no different from how we usually act: being friendly to each other in public, and being together behind closed doors. And besides, we've been doing this for over a year, haven't we?” He lifts her hands, kissing both her knuckles. “I hate it too, but I still get to see you and know you’re mine, and only mine.”
“I guess you’re right.” She murmurs. With a gentle smile, Bucky pecks her forehead.
“I promise you, everything will be alright.” He whispers, giving her hand a soft squeeze. Y/N nods, squeezing back… but she still doesn’t feel reassured.
A few weeks after Valentina’s demand, The New Avengers are at a press conference. Off to the side, Y/N scans the room, trying not to focus on Bucky for too long, even though it’s impossible to ignore him today. His curly hair is pulled back partway in a man bun, a few loose tendrils slipping out and framing his face. His suit flexes against his muscles and his metal arm, the material clinging to his biceps.
“God.” she thinks, feeling her throat going dry. “Valentina may be an insufferable bitch who’s interfering with my boyfriend and I’s relationship, but fuck me, she knows how to make him look good.” Y/N almost had a heart attack when she saw him for the first time today, and had to bite down hard on her tongue to compose herself. She feels herself automatically doing it now, as she pictures her and Bucky together, clinging to each other as they kiss, wanting to take things further right then and there. And then Bucky is unbuckling his belt and pulling his trousers down, even though they both know they shouldn’t be doing this….
And even though they had already done exactly that in the bathroom earlier. Fortunately, they’re both well accustomed to quickies in the bathroom and how to remain undetected.
As she scans the room, her eyes land on a member of the press. She’s crossed paths with him a few times. His name’s Tommy, and he’s the entertainment editor for some big gossip magazine. The New Avengers fill their pages a lot.
But that’s mainly because Valentina pays a lot for the privilege.
His eyes land on hers, and he gives her a smile. In response, she gives him a small nod back before going back to checking the room.
When she looks back, Tommy is still looking at her. Y/N suppresses the urge to grimace. She's met Tommy's type before: smooth-talking sleazeballs, eager to wine and dine you for a story, only to drop you the moment you’re no longer valuable. And Y/N refuses to be his next victim.
“Hey, Y/N, right?” He smiles, walking over to her as she gathers her notes at the end of the conference.
“I’ve literally met you like five times already, you ass. How do you not know my name?” She thinks, but plasters on a dazzling smile. “Yes, that’s me. So nice to see you again, Tommy.” she says, shaking his hand.
“You haven't changed your mind about that dinner offer yet?” He chuckles, and Y/N shakes her head, suppressing the urge to roll her eyes. Because of course he can’t be bothered to remember her name, yet he magically remembers all the gossip about The New Avengers and Valentina she must have.
“As I’ve told you before, if you want an interview, let Valentina know and we can schedule a time. I don’t do solo dinner dates with gossip columnists. That’s just asking for trouble.” She retorts, her tone politely joking, yet her words biting.
Even with her back turned, she can feel Bucky's intense gaze boring a hole into Tommy. She can also sense the tightness in his jaw and the stiffness of his posture.
Quickly, she glances back to Bucky. Sure enough, he’s trying to mask his anger. If looks could kill, Tommy would be a dead man. Thankfully, nobody seems to have picked up on Bucky’s anger, and Y/N gives him a quick: “Don’t.” look. Bucky doesn’t respond, but gives her a look of his own, one saying they’re definitely going to talk about this later.
“Speaking of, I have to go. Bye.” she says, turning on her heel and walking towards the others.
In the limo back to the tower, Ava chuckles, raising her brow. “What happened with you and that reporter guy, Y/N? He was making eyes at you again.”
“Ach! Yes, it was very distracting. The attention is supposed to be on us!” Alexei says disapprovingly.
“He’s not a reporter, Ava.” Y/N scoffs. “He just wants to stir up trouble and gossip, which he’s not going to get. And nobody could ever steal the attention away from you, Alexei.” Y/N reassures. Bucky still hasn’t taken his eyes off her.
“Good.” he nods. “Mister Soldier!” Alexei turns his attention to Bucky, clapping him on the shoulder. “You are very quiet, you know, it’s unnerving me a little. What do you think about the conference?”
“We all know what he thinks.” John smirks, his eyes flickering to Y/N, and the girls chuckle. Y/N clears her throat, swallowing hard.
“Shut up, John.” Bucky hisses. Thankfully, before they can say anything else, the limo pulls back up at the tower. Everyone hurries out, eager to relax and be out of the spotlight for a while.
“Wait...What does he think?” Alexei frowns, trailing behind.
Later that evening, as Y/N walks back to her office, Bucky appears from a secluded hallway, pulling her down it. “Jeez, you need to be more subtle with these things.” she jokes. Bucky doesn’t laugh.
“The way that asshole looked at you today. It makes me sick.” he says, his voice deep, and angry. “He looks at you like you’re nothing more than a piece of meat. God, I hate him.”
“Yeah, I could tell. Bucky, you need to be more careful, we both do! I already think John and the girls suspect something is up with us.”
“You’re my girlfriend, not his.” Bucky hisses, kissing her. But instead of kissing back, Y/N pulls away.
“I want to be yours. In public.” She says, and Bucky frowns.
“But we can’t, remember? If Valentina-”
“Are you even listening to me, Bucky? People are already suspecting us. People we see every day! Maybe…we should work out a way to tell people. Not everyone, just people we trust.”
“And you trust people in this tower?” He raises a brow. “Do you really trust someone like Alexei to keep our secret?”
“I trust Mel! She helped you, remember?” Y/N points out. “And I’ve had enough cocktails and gossip sessions with her, I’m sure she’d keep our secret. Hell, she probably understands us, too!” Seeing the look on Bucky’s face, Y/N sighs. “Bucky, please. I don’t want to live like this forever, wondering if I can hold your hand… if I can go outside with you, on a date, not just a work thing. Can you at least consider it?”
Bucky shakes his head. Seeing the hurt look on her face, Bucky’s eyes widen. “No. Shit, sorry. Not no, because I don’t want to go public with you, because I do.” He rambles, fidgeting with his hair. “Just…n-not yet, at least. I want to show you off, too. So, so badly. But I know what Valentina’s like, we both do. And I can’t lose you, or let her keep us apart.”
“Even though she already is?” Y/N murmurs. He sighs, softly kissing her forehead.
“I’m sorry, gorgeous. I do want to show you off, fuck, I wanna scream from the rooftops that I’m dating someone as incredible as you, but we just need to find the right time to say it.” He squeezes her hand, kissing her lips just as softly, continuing until he hits just the right spot. “I promise, we’ll go public soon.” he whispers, kissing her again.
Yet… even as she melts into his kiss, deep down, part of Y/N still doesn’t believe him.
Sure enough, the more the weeks go on, the longer Bucky keeps their secret relationship going. And the more Y/N considers cutting her losses and leaving. She loves Bucky, of course she does. She loves him more than anything in the world. But there’s only so many times you can see other couples holding hands, hugging, kissing and saying sweet things to each other in public whilst your own boyfriend keeps telling you he can’t do that with you before you think it’s something that you’re doing.
And their need to keep apart from each other for Valentina isn’t working either. In fact, the fans are clamouring for them even more, causing Valentina to keep driving the wedge further and further between them, like sending Bucky on remote solo missions, or keeping Y/N buried under a mound of paperwork in her office.
And yet, Bucky still isn’t doing anything about it. Not that Y/N is either, but ironically, it seems Valentina is the most invested person in their relationship, even when she’s trying to keep them apart.
It all comes to a head one day when Y/N is picking up coffee. As soon as she enters the coffee shop, she’s immediately aware of all the couples around her. Giggles, hand-holding, gazing into each other's eyes… everything she can’t do with Bucky. Bitterness swirls in her stomach, an acidic, destructive force which she tries to push down, but after so long pushing it down, it’s refusing to stay buried. To take her mind off things, she flicks through the stack of magazines beside the counter whilst she waits for the coffee. But then, a headline catches her eye, causing her eyes to widen in surprise. There, bold and right in her face, are the words:
“The dating life of superhero James Buchanan ‘Bucky’ Barnes. Valentina Allegra de Fontaine comments!”
The article is mostly guesswork, implying that Bucky may have something with random women he’s photographed with, whether they’re women he saved or people he met on the street. Most of the article is dedicated to Y/N herself, with a large paragraph and multiple photos describing her and Bucky’s chemistry and potential relationship. But as promised, there’s also a paragraph from Valentina, where she comments on the rumours and seems to imply there may be more to things than meets the eye. Y/N clenches the magazine in a vice-like grip, the bitterness, rage, and hurt building and growing, creating a dangerous Molotov cocktail ready to explode.
“Can I take this?” she asks the barista, practically through gritted teeth. “...Please?” The barista nods, slightly unnerved by the look of pure rage on Y/N’s face.
Back in the tower, Y/N dumps the coffee in the common room without another word, turning on her heel and storming out without so much as a hello.
“...What the hell’s her problem?” John frowns.
Y/N storms down the hallway, her fists clenched. Mel’s eyes widen as she sees her approaching, noticing the fire in her eyes.
“Y/N, Valentina’s about to leave, can you do this later? She has to-”
“Oh, she’ll make time for me.” Y/N snaps, opening the door and letting it bang against the wall. Valentina peers up from her desk, her brow raised.
“Good morning to you, too.” Y/N slams the magazine down onto the desk, the pages still open on the article.
“What the hell is this? Why wasn’t I consulted on this?”
“Now, come Y/N, you must know this is an inevitable part of celebrity life.” She chuckles condescendingly, only pissing Y/N off more.
“You told us to stay apart, because you didn’t want the press to focus on their personal lives!” she’s shaking now, grinding her teeth to dust. “But you yourself are more than happy to go to… Tommy and give your side?!”
“Well, he called me, said you weren’t giving him anything useful. What else was I supposed to do?”
“Because you-” she hisses, stopping herself before she breaks something. “You told me you wanted to control the narrative and focus only on their missions!”
“Well, what do you expect? I am controlling the narrative.” She smirks. “Don’t be so upset, you have the biggest paragraph, and I made sure you looked good.”
Y/N scoffs. Of course. Of fucking course she’s only thinking about herself. She always is, even at the expense of everyone else.
And Y/N’s had enough.
“I’m done with this. I quit.” She says. Valentina splutters, choking on her drink, shocked. “Effective immediately.”
“Excuse me? You can’t-”
“I can, and I will.” Y/N retorts.
“I must say, this is a really inconvenient time to quit, especially with the gala coming up this week.” Valentina points out, and Y/N rolls her eyes, no longer concerned about offending her.
“I’ve done most of the work for it, anyway. Like usual.”
“And you want to let all that work go to waste?” Valentina stammers, clearly grasping at straws to get her to stay. Seeing how sure Y/N is about this, she sighs. “Okay, fine. At least stay till the gala and help run it, please? After that, you’re free to go wherever you want.”
“Fine.” Y/N nods. “And you’ll write me a glowing reference. Deal?”
“...Deal.” Y/N smiles, nodding. She’s glad to see Valentina like this - bending to her every whim for once.
But as she turns to leave, Valentina can’t help but stab the knife in her back… and twist it for good measure. “And this way, you have time to say goodbye to everyone. Especially Bucky.”
Y/N sighs, not even turning to face her, refusing to give her the satisfaction of seeing her pain. Even though she can already feel herself about to crumble.
“Eat shit, Valentina.”
Meanwhile, Bucky is in the gym, completely unaware of everything going on. He unleashes a flurry of kicks and punches on the punching bag, sending it flying. He’s focused, absorbed in his own world. That is, however, until he takes a break for some water and finds Yelena standing right behind him.
“Jesus. You always sneak up on people like that?”
“You’re one to talk.”
“Fair.” he chuckles, wiping the sweat from his brow.
“Okay, spill.” Yelena orders.
“I’d rather not,” Bucky responds with a teasing grin, sipping his water.
“Ha ha.” she says flatly. “I meant about you and Y/N.”
“What about us?”
“Oh, come on, Bucky. You’re really not subtle. It’s obvious, really.” When he ignores her, she rolls her eyes, letting out an exasperated sigh. “Did Mel tell you Y/N’s quitting?”
That gets his attention. Bucky jolts, sending his water flying everywhere. “Fuck-wait, w-what did you just say?”
“You heard me. Mel told me earlier. Y/N went to Valentina and said she quit.”
“If I swear, you’re lying to me, Yel-”
“Why the fuck would I lie about that?” Yelena raises a brow.
“But why would-”
“Maybe it’s because she’s madly in love with you, but you’ve been letting Valentina mess with your relationship and treat the two of you like a doormat?” Bucky doesn’t respond, bolting out of the room in search of Y/N. He feels his entire world collapsing beneath him. His chest constricts, and he blinks rapidly, trying to make sense of it all, or fight back the tears.
He finds Y/N in her office, meticulously packing her things away. “You’re leaving?” He asks, his mind still reeling.
“Yes. I am,” she responds, not even looking at him. “My last night is the gala on Friday.”
“But why?” he asks, stepping closer. “I thought things were good between us, that we were happy.”
“You were.” She answers with a biting remark. She still hasn’t looked at him, even though she's breaking his heart. Pain and anger build within Bucky, the mixture swirling in his gut.
“What the hell’s that supposed to mean?”
“Have you seen this?” she pushes the magazine over to him. Bucky scans the page, his eyes narrowing when he realises what it says.
“Oh my- what the fuck is wrong with her?”
“Yup. God forbid she’s not the one controlling the narrative.” She scoffs, rolling her eyes. She still hasn’t looked at him.
“...So you’re leaving because of that? A gossip article?”
“No, Bucky, I’m not leaving just because of that. That,” she spits out, her voice laced with resentment. “Is just the tip of a fucking iceberg.” Bucky’s brow furrows. He’s still hurt - hurt that she’s leaving, hurt that he had to find out from Yelena of all people, hurt that his strong, beautiful girlfriend would be so upset by a fucking gossip tabloid. But most of all, hurt that she still won’t fucking look at him.
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“I’ve told you multiple times how unhappy I was with all of this.” she retorts.
“I meant that you’re leaving!” he bites back. “You know, not even telling me, or even thinking about how I feel is pretty selfish.” he snaps.
“I’M the one being selfish?!” she scoffs, finally looking at him. Her eyes blaze with a fury and pain he’s never seen before. “I’m selfish because I want to hold hands with you in public? Because I want to tell everyone you’re my boyfriend, regardless of what Valentina says?” she scoffs. “Because I’m fucking tired of people, of you,” she spits, her voice breaking. “Letting Valentina control us?” And finally, Bucky understands. And it breaks his damn heart.
“Y/N, I…” he murmurs. He doesn’t even know what to say.
“I love you, Bucky, and it feels like you never want to show it. Like you love the secret part of our relationship more than you love me.”
“That’s not true, you know it’s not.” He insists, his own voice breaking. He steps closer, reaching out for her.
“Don’t I? Then why won’t you tell me in public? O-Or stand up to Valentina?”
“...It’s not that easy, she’s my boss, and-”
“That’s what I thought.” she sniffles, picking up her box of things and walking to the door.
Bucky wants to stop her. To pull her into his arms and kiss her. To tell her he’s sorry, that he’s being an asshole. Because of course, he loves her. Of course he wants to show her off to the world.
But he just… can’t.
So, he just lets her go.
Later, Bucky sits alone at the table, his head in his hands as the weight of everything presses down on him. The other New Avengers watch him, not wanting to say anything, or unsure of what to say.
“Stop looking at me like I’m fragile.” he grunts, breaking the silence. “You all know about Y/N and me, and that she quit.”
“And she dumped you.” Ava chimes in. “Because you were being an ass.”
“Thanks.” Bucky huffs, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “I was though, you’re right.”
“So, what are you going to do?” Yelena asks.
“...I just don’t know,” he lets out a resigned sigh. “I love her so much. She’s my whole damn world, and I’ve really screwed up. I’ll see her at the gala on Friday, but god knows if she’ll even want to see me.” But then, he has an idea. “Guys… I need your help.”
That Friday, the gala is in full swing. The room, decorated with expensive chandeliers and opulent floral arrangements, is full of laughter, chatter and music. Y/N stands alone in the corner, sipping her drink. This whole situation with Bucky has really brought to her attention how alone she feels in these places, always on the outside looking in.
Y/N’s eyes drift to the other side of the room, locking eyes with Bucky. Her breath hitches in her throat. He looks so good, dressed to the nines in a sharp, fitted suit, exuding charm and sophistication. And god, she misses him so fucking badly.
He makes his way over to her, giving her a soft smile. “Hi.” Somehow, he looks even better up close. He even smells sophisticated.
“Hey Bucky.”
“You look…” he chuckles softly, breathless. “Fucking incredible.” A faint smile graces her lips, and she even gives him a little twirl.
“Thanks. You look great too.”
“Y/N, I’m so sorry for what happened. I messed up, and you’re right-”
“Well, hello you two.” Valentina says, and Bucky huffs. Valentina walks up to them both, her smile as cold as ice. “Almost time for your speech, Bucky.” she smiles.
“You’re doing a speech?” Y/N’s brow furrows. “Nobody told me-”
“He sure is.” Valentina cuts in, placing a hand on his arm and giving Y/N a look that seems to say ‘I win.’ “And he better go.” Bucky gives Y/N one last look, then walks off. Y/N’s heart sinks.
“Glad to see you came.” Valentina smiles. “Although I’m not sure why you’re surprised nobody told you about Bucky’s speech. You did quit last minute.”
“I said I would come.” Y/N retorts, refusing to take the bait Valentina’s dangling in front of her. If she confronts her here, Valentina can easily twist the narrative against her, and she refuses to let her have any hold over her anymore.
“Sure you don’t want to come back? You planned an excellent party, I must admit. Didn’t realise you had it in you.” She’s a master at that. Of making compliments feel like poison.
“I’m sure.” Valentina opens her mouth, but before she can say anything, Bucky clears his throat, and his voice fills the air.
“Good evening, all. Thank you for coming.” His eyes scan the room again, landing on Y/N and Valentina. “This night wouldn’t be possible without the incredible woman who organised it all,” Valentina’s smile grows, and Y/N rolls her eyes. “My girlfriend, Y/N.” The room goes silent, save for Valentina sputtering on her wine.
“What?!” she demands.
“What?” Y/N gasps.
“You may have seen an article in a magazine a few days ago about my dating life, one Y/N and I were never consulted about. But Valentina was.” His eyes narrow. “And I’ve decided that I’m tired of letting this woman control my life, and coming between Y/N and I.”
The entire room turns to look at them both. Valentina goes bright red, stammering as she tries to form a coherent sentence. Y/N can’t say anything, still in shock. She considers pinching herself to see if she’s dreaming, but can’t even muster the strength to do that, either. “Y/N.” Bucky sighs. “I’m so, so sorry I let Valentina come between us, and didn’t tell the entire world that I love you, like you deserve. So…” he smiles. “I love you, Y/N. So, so much. You’re the best thing that ever happened to me, and I want to show you off to the world and do everything with you, too. In public, because I want everyone to know how happy I am. And it’s all because of you. I’ve been such an asshole, and you deserve so much better. And again, I’m so, so sorry. I totally understand if you never want to see me again, or take me back. But will you please consider giving me another chance?”
In response, Y/N walks over to him, pulling him into a kiss. The room descends into chaos, and she registers cameras flashing around them, but she and Bucky don’t care. “Of course I will.” she whispers, pecking his lips. “...I didn’t expect this public, though.” She giggles softly. Bucky smiles.
“It’s the least you deserve.”
“God, I love you.”
“I love you too.” He kisses her again, and the press go wild. “Now, come on.” He takes her hand, interlocking their fingers. “We’ve got a lot of time to make up for.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
our little secret - thunderbolt/new avenger!bucky x female!reader
Plot: Disapproving of the public shipping Bucky Barnes with The New Avengers' assistant Y/N, Valentina orders them to stay apart, determined to keep the focus on the group... and by extension, herself. Unbeknownst to everyone, however, Bucky and Y/N have already been secretly dating for over a year. Y/N longs to go public and tell the world how much they love each other, but understands Bucky's reservations. Yet, the more Valentina meddles in their relationship with no pushback from him... the more she wonders if he even wants to be with her at all. Pairing: Thunderbolt/New Avenger!Bucky x Female!Reader Warnings: 18+ only please! Mention of reader and Bucky having a quickie in the bathroom. It's not detailed and is more fade to black before anything happens, but still! Valentina being a manipulative boss and meddling with reader and Bucky's relationship, the press and paparazzi being intrusive and gross, mentions of the hate/threats The New Avengers are getting, possessive and protective Bucky... but he's also an idiot in this I fear, and mild mentions of alcohol. Also lots of angst (but with a happy ending of course!). As always, if I miss any triggers, please let me know! ...Also I'm not a fan of John Walker so he may be a bit of a dick in this, so sorry in advance to any fans of his. Notes: This fic took me FOREVER to write, but it's finally here. I hope you love it!! Divider by @firefly-graphics
The common room of The New Avengers Tower is a hub of activity and chatter. Yelena and Ava watch a movie, chatting about the plot, whilst Bob, John and Alexei play cards, the sound of a cheer or laugh occasionally filling the air. The door swings open, and Mel walks in, the sharp click of her heels echoing on the floor.
“Bucky,” she smiles, looking over at the super soldier who’s currently slumped on the couch and scrolling through his phone. “Valentina wants to see you in her office immediately, please.”
The room goes quiet. Valentina wanting to see you is never good news. And alone is even worse.
“What is this meeting? Valentina never told me about this?” Alexei frowns.
“Think it’s just for me, Alexei.” Bucky sighs wearily, pushing himself up.
“...And you too, please, Y/N.” Mel interrupts. Immediately, the New Avengers and Bob all turn their heads to stare at the two of them.
“Why? I’m not an Avenger-”
“You’re our assistant, though. Maybe you did something wrong-” John suggests, his familiar, condescending smirk playing on his lips. Thankfully, Yelena quickly whispers a:
“Shut the fuck up.” and Y/N shoots her a grateful look.
Valentina’s office is pristine, full of polished marble and velvet. Y/N has always hated it. It’s like she’s just waiting for people to screw up. Any mistake, any spill would be visible, no matter how tiny. Both in this office and in real life.
“Close the door. Please don’t scuff the floors, I just had those put in.” Valentina says, spinning around in her chair to face them. Y/N can’t help but wonder if Valentina knows how much she looks like a supervillain when she does that. Knowing her, she’d probably relish it. Valentina sips from a glass of champagne, her eyes narrowing as the two approach her.
“Hello, Valentina.” Y/N nods. Bucky already looks bored with this whole thing, but murmurs his own greeting. “You wanted to see us?”
“Care to explain this?” Valentina ignores their greeting, and slides an iPad across the desk. The image shows Y/N and Bucky attending a recent gala. The picture captures Y/N, her head thrown back in laughter at something Bucky is saying, and he’s grinning as he looks over at her. Y/N's smile grows as she looks at the picture, warmth spreading in her stomach from the happy memory.
“It’s a picture of Y/N and I from the last gala.” Bucky grunts.
“Yes, I know that,” Valentina replies with a dismissive tsk. “Mel, you were supposed to- whatever.” With an exasperated huff, she swipes to the next image. “I meant these.”
The screen is full of comments left on the post. Of course, Y/N’s seen most of them, considering her job as an assistant for The New Avengers.
However, these comments all focus on one specific thing.
User 1: Y/N and Bucky are so cute together. They’d really be a great couple. Reply: Right?! The way he looks at her!!! User 2: Has anyone else noticed how much Bucky, the grumpy ex-assassin, smiles around Y/N??? IT’S SO CUUUUTE!!! User 3: WE WANT Y/N AND BUCKY!!! User 4: Anyone have any ship name ideas? User 5: They’re WAY more interesting than the Thunderbolts, or whatever they’re called now #sorrynotsorry
“Those aren't the only comments. And Mel has informed me that there are TikTok videos and fan accounts dedicated to you, too. It appears people are shipping you both.” Valentina's brow arches as she looks at them both. Bucky furrows his brow, a look of confusion crossing his face.
“Shipping us where?”
“Jesus Christ, how old are you?!" Valentina rubs her temple, irritated. “It means they want you two to be a couple. Mel told me that.” Y/N is about to call out the hypocrisy of her scolding Bucky for his own lack of understanding, but Valentina’s icy glare and Mel’s frantic head shake, warning her to stop, stop her. "Well?" She prompts, raising her brow as she looks at the pair expectantly.
“Well…what?” Bucky asks, his brow furrowed.
“What do you two have to say for yourselves?”
"Well, I didn’t know so many people see us that way..." Y/N explains. Even though she loves her job, she finds it incredibly jarring to realise how visible she is and how much Valentina and others scrutinise and try to dictate her every move.
“Sorry, why is this a bad thing?” Bucky asks. “They just want us to be together; it’s not like they’re sending us death threats or hate, like usual.”
“It doesn’t matter!” Valentina snaps. “The focus is supposed to be on the New Avengers as a group, not their dating lives. You saw it yourselves; someone said you two are way more interesting than the group! We’ve done so much, and yet the focus is always on you two.” She looks between them both, her eyes narrowed with suspicion. Y/N’s heart jumps into her throat. Whenever Valentina is in one of her moods, it’s best to steer clear. And she’s never seen her this frustrated before. “So.” She sips some more champagne, clearing her throat. “I want you two to stay apart from each other.”
“What?” Y/N gasps. “You can’t do that! My job is being an assistant for The New Avengers! It’s my job to be with him all the time!”
“I was going to say you stay away from him, aside from the bare minimum duties of your job, if you’d have let me finish.” Valentina hisses.
“That’s not fair, you can’t punish her for-” Bucky, always the hero, steps in.
“As your boss, I can and I will.” Valentina counters. “Now, I have to go to a meeting, so you two can talk amongst yourselves. I’m sure we’ll come to an understanding on this.” She smiles, her expression ice cold. “I trust you know the way out.” Y/N and Bucky take their cue to leave, the door slamming shut behind them.
“I can’t believe she’s done this.” Y/N murmurs, still in shock.
“I know.” Bucky hisses. His hand moves as if to comfort her, but he notices the cameras above them, quickly letting it fall back to his side. “Come on. Let’s…talk this out.” he urges, guiding her to another, more secluded room in the compound.
“Are you sure it’s alright in here? That there are no cameras?” Bucky laughs.
“Y/N, I’m an ex-assassin. I know how to spot a camera. This place is a total blackout, we’ll be undetectable.”
The door clicks shut, and their mouths immediately meet in an intense, passionate kiss. Bucky’s lips kiss down her neck, a playful smirk on his face. “God, you look so gorgeous today.” He whispers, his breath hot against her skin. “It’s so hard to keep my hands off you. You know what you do to me, hm?”
“Watch out you don’t leave any hickeys. Then she really will get pissed at us.” Y/N says, and he laughs again, the sound warm and deep.
“Screw her.”
Y/N and Bucky’s secret relationship started long before that gala. Their relationship began when he joined the Thunderbolts. At first, Y/N found it so romantic and thrilling, that even though Valentina and the others want to know everything about each other, she and Bucky could have this one little thing to themselves, a fuck you to Valentina after all the demands and cruel words she's inflicted on them so far.
“We have to keep it a secret.” Bucky had said, kissing the top of her head as they laid on her couch on one of the first nights they spent together. “The last thing I want is Valentina interfering in our private lives.” And Y/N agreed. She thought it was a great idea, a moment of rebellion.
But now, she’s not so sure. Because it sure feels like Valentina is already messing with their private lives. And now Valentina’s aware of how people want them to be together, it could only get worse.
“Bucky, wait.” She says. Immediately, he stops, pulling away from her.
“Are you okay? I’m sorry, did I go too far?” His blue eyes sweep over her, checking she’s okay. He’s so caring, so perfect in every way. How could she ever let him go? Stay away from him as if he means nothing, just because of Valentina?
“No, you’re great. You’re perfect, actually.” He raises a brow, taking her hands in his.
“What’s wrong, gorgeous?” her nickname. She always feels herself melting at that, and at how Bucky immediately knows something is wrong with her without her even having to say she isn’t feeling okay. “Is it because of what Valentina said?” He asks, and she nods.
“I just…she’s going to be more vigilant now, and if she finds out about us-”
“She’s not going to,” Bucky insists, shaking his head. “Sure, maybe we have to spend less time together in public, but this is really no different from how we usually act: being friendly to each other in public, and being together behind closed doors. And besides, we've been doing this for over a year, haven't we?” He lifts her hands, kissing both her knuckles. “I hate it too, but I still get to see you and know you’re mine, and only mine.”
“I guess you’re right.” She murmurs. With a gentle smile, Bucky pecks her forehead.
“I promise you, everything will be alright.” He whispers, giving her hand a soft squeeze. Y/N nods, squeezing back… but she still doesn’t feel reassured.
A few weeks after Valentina’s demand, The New Avengers are at a press conference. Off to the side, Y/N scans the room, trying not to focus on Bucky for too long, even though it’s impossible to ignore him today. His curly hair is pulled back partway in a man bun, a few loose tendrils slipping out and framing his face. His suit flexes against his muscles and his metal arm, the material clinging to his biceps.
“God.” she thinks, feeling her throat going dry. “Valentina may be an insufferable bitch who’s interfering with my boyfriend and I’s relationship, but fuck me, she knows how to make him look good.” Y/N almost had a heart attack when she saw him for the first time today, and had to bite down hard on her tongue to compose herself. She feels herself automatically doing it now, as she pictures her and Bucky together, clinging to each other as they kiss, wanting to take things further right then and there. And then Bucky is unbuckling his belt and pulling his trousers down, even though they both know they shouldn’t be doing this….
And even though they had already done exactly that in the bathroom earlier. Fortunately, they’re both well accustomed to quickies in the bathroom and how to remain undetected.
As she scans the room, her eyes land on a member of the press. She’s crossed paths with him a few times. His name’s Tommy, and he’s the entertainment editor for some big gossip magazine. The New Avengers fill their pages a lot.
But that’s mainly because Valentina pays a lot for the privilege.
His eyes land on hers, and he gives her a smile. In response, she gives him a small nod back before going back to checking the room.
When she looks back, Tommy is still looking at her. Y/N suppresses the urge to grimace. She's met Tommy's type before: smooth-talking sleazeballs, eager to wine and dine you for a story, only to drop you the moment you’re no longer valuable. And Y/N refuses to be his next victim.
“Hey, Y/N, right?” He smiles, walking over to her as she gathers her notes at the end of the conference.
“I’ve literally met you like five times already, you ass. How do you not know my name?” She thinks, but plasters on a dazzling smile. “Yes, that’s me. So nice to see you again, Tommy.” she says, shaking his hand.
“You haven't changed your mind about that dinner offer yet?” He chuckles, and Y/N shakes her head, suppressing the urge to roll her eyes. Because of course he can’t be bothered to remember her name, yet he magically remembers all the gossip about The New Avengers and Valentina she must have.
“As I’ve told you before, if you want an interview, let Valentina know and we can schedule a time. I don’t do solo dinner dates with gossip columnists. That’s just asking for trouble.” She retorts, her tone politely joking, yet her words biting.
Even with her back turned, she can feel Bucky's intense gaze boring a hole into Tommy. She can also sense the tightness in his jaw and the stiffness of his posture.
Quickly, she glances back to Bucky. Sure enough, he’s trying to mask his anger. If looks could kill, Tommy would be a dead man. Thankfully, nobody seems to have picked up on Bucky’s anger, and Y/N gives him a quick: “Don’t.” look. Bucky doesn’t respond, but gives her a look of his own, one saying they’re definitely going to talk about this later.
“Speaking of, I have to go. Bye.” she says, turning on her heel and walking towards the others.
In the limo back to the tower, Ava chuckles, raising her brow. “What happened with you and that reporter guy, Y/N? He was making eyes at you again.”
“Ach! Yes, it was very distracting. The attention is supposed to be on us!” Alexei says disapprovingly.
“He’s not a reporter, Ava.” Y/N scoffs. “He just wants to stir up trouble and gossip, which he’s not going to get. And nobody could ever steal the attention away from you, Alexei.” Y/N reassures. Bucky still hasn’t taken his eyes off her.
“Good.” he nods. “Mister Soldier!” Alexei turns his attention to Bucky, clapping him on the shoulder. “You are very quiet, you know, it’s unnerving me a little. What do you think about the conference?”
“We all know what he thinks.” John smirks, his eyes flickering to Y/N, and the girls chuckle. Y/N clears her throat, swallowing hard.
“Shut up, John.” Bucky hisses. Thankfully, before they can say anything else, the limo pulls back up at the tower. Everyone hurries out, eager to relax and be out of the spotlight for a while.
“Wait...What does he think?” Alexei frowns, trailing behind.
Later that evening, as Y/N walks back to her office, Bucky appears from a secluded hallway, pulling her down it. “Jeez, you need to be more subtle with these things.” she jokes. Bucky doesn’t laugh.
“The way that asshole looked at you today. It makes me sick.” he says, his voice deep, and angry. “He looks at you like you’re nothing more than a piece of meat. God, I hate him.”
“Yeah, I could tell. Bucky, you need to be more careful, we both do! I already think John and the girls suspect something is up with us.”
“You’re my girlfriend, not his.” Bucky hisses, kissing her. But instead of kissing back, Y/N pulls away.
“I want to be yours. In public.” She says, and Bucky frowns.
“But we can’t, remember? If Valentina-”
“Are you even listening to me, Bucky? People are already suspecting us. People we see every day! Maybe…we should work out a way to tell people. Not everyone, just people we trust.”
“And you trust people in this tower?” He raises a brow. “Do you really trust someone like Alexei to keep our secret?”
“I trust Mel! She helped you, remember?” Y/N points out. “And I’ve had enough cocktails and gossip sessions with her, I’m sure she’d keep our secret. Hell, she probably understands us, too!” Seeing the look on Bucky’s face, Y/N sighs. “Bucky, please. I don’t want to live like this forever, wondering if I can hold your hand… if I can go outside with you, on a date, not just a work thing. Can you at least consider it?”
Bucky shakes his head. Seeing the hurt look on her face, Bucky’s eyes widen. “No. Shit, sorry. Not no, because I don’t want to go public with you, because I do.” He rambles, fidgeting with his hair. “Just…n-not yet, at least. I want to show you off, too. So, so badly. But I know what Valentina’s like, we both do. And I can’t lose you, or let her keep us apart.”
“Even though she already is?” Y/N murmurs. He sighs, softly kissing her forehead.
“I’m sorry, gorgeous. I do want to show you off, fuck, I wanna scream from the rooftops that I’m dating someone as incredible as you, but we just need to find the right time to say it.” He squeezes her hand, kissing her lips just as softly, continuing until he hits just the right spot. “I promise, we’ll go public soon.” he whispers, kissing her again.
Yet… even as she melts into his kiss, deep down, part of Y/N still doesn’t believe him.
Sure enough, the more the weeks go on, the longer Bucky keeps their secret relationship going. And the more Y/N considers cutting her losses and leaving. She loves Bucky, of course she does. She loves him more than anything in the world. But there’s only so many times you can see other couples holding hands, hugging, kissing and saying sweet things to each other in public whilst your own boyfriend keeps telling you he can’t do that with you before you think it’s something that you’re doing.
And their need to keep apart from each other for Valentina isn’t working either. In fact, the fans are clamouring for them even more, causing Valentina to keep driving the wedge further and further between them, like sending Bucky on remote solo missions, or keeping Y/N buried under a mound of paperwork in her office.
And yet, Bucky still isn’t doing anything about it. Not that Y/N is either, but ironically, it seems Valentina is the most invested person in their relationship, even when she’s trying to keep them apart.
It all comes to a head one day when Y/N is picking up coffee. As soon as she enters the coffee shop, she’s immediately aware of all the couples around her. Giggles, hand-holding, gazing into each other's eyes… everything she can’t do with Bucky. Bitterness swirls in her stomach, an acidic, destructive force which she tries to push down, but after so long pushing it down, it’s refusing to stay buried. To take her mind off things, she flicks through the stack of magazines beside the counter whilst she waits for the coffee. But then, a headline catches her eye, causing her eyes to widen in surprise. There, bold and right in her face, are the words:
“The dating life of superhero James Buchanan ‘Bucky’ Barnes. Valentina Allegra de Fontaine comments!”
The article is mostly guesswork, implying that Bucky may have something with random women he’s photographed with, whether they’re women he saved or people he met on the street. Most of the article is dedicated to Y/N herself, with a large paragraph and multiple photos describing her and Bucky’s chemistry and potential relationship. But as promised, there’s also a paragraph from Valentina, where she comments on the rumours and seems to imply there may be more to things than meets the eye. Y/N clenches the magazine in a vice-like grip, the bitterness, rage, and hurt building and growing, creating a dangerous Molotov cocktail ready to explode.
“Can I take this?” she asks the barista, practically through gritted teeth. “...Please?” The barista nods, slightly unnerved by the look of pure rage on Y/N’s face.
Back in the tower, Y/N dumps the coffee in the common room without another word, turning on her heel and storming out without so much as a hello.
“...What the hell’s her problem?” John frowns.
Y/N storms down the hallway, her fists clenched. Mel’s eyes widen as she sees her approaching, noticing the fire in her eyes.
“Y/N, Valentina’s about to leave, can you do this later? She has to-”
“Oh, she’ll make time for me.” Y/N snaps, opening the door and letting it bang against the wall. Valentina peers up from her desk, her brow raised.
“Good morning to you, too.” Y/N slams the magazine down onto the desk, the pages still open on the article.
“What the hell is this? Why wasn’t I consulted on this?”
“Now, come Y/N, you must know this is an inevitable part of celebrity life.” She chuckles condescendingly, only pissing Y/N off more.
“You told us to stay apart, because you didn’t want the press to focus on their personal lives!” she’s shaking now, grinding her teeth to dust. “But you yourself are more than happy to go to… Tommy and give your side?!”
“Well, he called me, said you weren’t giving him anything useful. What else was I supposed to do?”
“Because you-” she hisses, stopping herself before she breaks something. “You told me you wanted to control the narrative and focus only on their missions!”
“Well, what do you expect? I am controlling the narrative.” She smirks. “Don’t be so upset, you have the biggest paragraph, and I made sure you looked good.”
Y/N scoffs. Of course. Of fucking course she’s only thinking about herself. She always is, even at the expense of everyone else.
And Y/N’s had enough.
“I’m done with this. I quit.” She says. Valentina splutters, choking on her drink, shocked. “Effective immediately.”
“Excuse me? You can’t-”
“I can, and I will.” Y/N retorts.
“I must say, this is a really inconvenient time to quit, especially with the gala coming up this week.” Valentina points out, and Y/N rolls her eyes, no longer concerned about offending her.
“I’ve done most of the work for it, anyway. Like usual.”
“And you want to let all that work go to waste?” Valentina stammers, clearly grasping at straws to get her to stay. Seeing how sure Y/N is about this, she sighs. “Okay, fine. At least stay till the gala and help run it, please? After that, you’re free to go wherever you want.”
“Fine.” Y/N nods. “And you’ll write me a glowing reference. Deal?”
“...Deal.” Y/N smiles, nodding. She’s glad to see Valentina like this - bending to her every whim for once.
But as she turns to leave, Valentina can’t help but stab the knife in her back… and twist it for good measure. “And this way, you have time to say goodbye to everyone. Especially Bucky.”
Y/N sighs, not even turning to face her, refusing to give her the satisfaction of seeing her pain. Even though she can already feel herself about to crumble.
“Eat shit, Valentina.”
Meanwhile, Bucky is in the gym, completely unaware of everything going on. He unleashes a flurry of kicks and punches on the punching bag, sending it flying. He’s focused, absorbed in his own world. That is, however, until he takes a break for some water and finds Yelena standing right behind him.
“Jesus. You always sneak up on people like that?”
“You’re one to talk.”
“Fair.” he chuckles, wiping the sweat from his brow.
“Okay, spill.” Yelena orders.
“I’d rather not,” Bucky responds with a teasing grin, sipping his water.
“Ha ha.” she says flatly. “I meant about you and Y/N.”
“What about us?”
“Oh, come on, Bucky. You’re really not subtle. It’s obvious, really.” When he ignores her, she rolls her eyes, letting out an exasperated sigh. “Did Mel tell you Y/N’s quitting?”
That gets his attention. Bucky jolts, sending his water flying everywhere. “Fuck-wait, w-what did you just say?”
“You heard me. Mel told me earlier. Y/N went to Valentina and said she quit.”
“If I swear, you’re lying to me, Yel-”
“Why the fuck would I lie about that?” Yelena raises a brow.
“But why would-”
“Maybe it’s because she’s madly in love with you, but you’ve been letting Valentina mess with your relationship and treat the two of you like a doormat?” Bucky doesn’t respond, bolting out of the room in search of Y/N. He feels his entire world collapsing beneath him. His chest constricts, and he blinks rapidly, trying to make sense of it all, or fight back the tears.
He finds Y/N in her office, meticulously packing her things away. “You’re leaving?” He asks, his mind still reeling.
“Yes. I am,” she responds, not even looking at him. “My last night is the gala on Friday.”
“But why?” he asks, stepping closer. “I thought things were good between us, that we were happy.”
“You were.” She answers with a biting remark. She still hasn’t looked at him, even though she's breaking his heart. Pain and anger build within Bucky, the mixture swirling in his gut.
“What the hell’s that supposed to mean?”
“Have you seen this?” she pushes the magazine over to him. Bucky scans the page, his eyes narrowing when he realises what it says.
“Oh my- what the fuck is wrong with her?”
“Yup. God forbid she’s not the one controlling the narrative.” She scoffs, rolling her eyes. She still hasn’t looked at him.
“...So you’re leaving because of that? A gossip article?”
“No, Bucky, I’m not leaving just because of that. That,” she spits out, her voice laced with resentment. “Is just the tip of a fucking iceberg.” Bucky’s brow furrows. He’s still hurt - hurt that she’s leaving, hurt that he had to find out from Yelena of all people, hurt that his strong, beautiful girlfriend would be so upset by a fucking gossip tabloid. But most of all, hurt that she still won’t fucking look at him.
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“I’ve told you multiple times how unhappy I was with all of this.” she retorts.
“I meant that you’re leaving!” he bites back. “You know, not even telling me, or even thinking about how I feel is pretty selfish.” he snaps.
“I’M the one being selfish?!” she scoffs, finally looking at him. Her eyes blaze with a fury and pain he’s never seen before. “I’m selfish because I want to hold hands with you in public? Because I want to tell everyone you’re my boyfriend, regardless of what Valentina says?” she scoffs. “Because I’m fucking tired of people, of you,” she spits, her voice breaking. “Letting Valentina control us?” And finally, Bucky understands. And it breaks his damn heart.
“Y/N, I…” he murmurs. He doesn’t even know what to say.
“I love you, Bucky, and it feels like you never want to show it. Like you love the secret part of our relationship more than you love me.”
“That’s not true, you know it’s not.” He insists, his own voice breaking. He steps closer, reaching out for her.
“Don’t I? Then why won’t you tell me in public? O-Or stand up to Valentina?”
“...It’s not that easy, she’s my boss, and-”
“That’s what I thought.” she sniffles, picking up her box of things and walking to the door.
Bucky wants to stop her. To pull her into his arms and kiss her. To tell her he’s sorry, that he’s being an asshole. Because of course, he loves her. Of course he wants to show her off to the world.
But he just… can’t.
So, he just lets her go.
Later, Bucky sits alone at the table, his head in his hands as the weight of everything presses down on him. The other New Avengers watch him, not wanting to say anything, or unsure of what to say.
“Stop looking at me like I’m fragile.” he grunts, breaking the silence. “You all know about Y/N and me, and that she quit.”
“And she dumped you.” Ava chimes in. “Because you were being an ass.”
“Thanks.” Bucky huffs, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “I was though, you’re right.”
“So, what are you going to do?” Yelena asks.
“...I just don’t know,” he lets out a resigned sigh. “I love her so much. She’s my whole damn world, and I’ve really screwed up. I’ll see her at the gala on Friday, but god knows if she’ll even want to see me.” But then, he has an idea. “Guys… I need your help.”
That Friday, the gala is in full swing. The room, decorated with expensive chandeliers and opulent floral arrangements, is full of laughter, chatter and music. Y/N stands alone in the corner, sipping her drink. This whole situation with Bucky has really brought to her attention how alone she feels in these places, always on the outside looking in.
Y/N’s eyes drift to the other side of the room, locking eyes with Bucky. Her breath hitches in her throat. He looks so good, dressed to the nines in a sharp, fitted suit, exuding charm and sophistication. And god, she misses him so fucking badly.
He makes his way over to her, giving her a soft smile. “Hi.” Somehow, he looks even better up close. He even smells sophisticated.
“Hey Bucky.”
“You look…” he chuckles softly, breathless. “Fucking incredible.” A faint smile graces her lips, and she even gives him a little twirl.
“Thanks. You look great too.”
“Y/N, I’m so sorry for what happened. I messed up, and you’re right-”
“Well, hello you two.” Valentina says, and Bucky huffs. Valentina walks up to them both, her smile as cold as ice. “Almost time for your speech, Bucky.” she smiles.
“You’re doing a speech?” Y/N’s brow furrows. “Nobody told me-”
“He sure is.” Valentina cuts in, placing a hand on his arm and giving Y/N a look that seems to say ‘I win.’ “And he better go.” Bucky gives Y/N one last look, then walks off. Y/N’s heart sinks.
“Glad to see you came.” Valentina smiles. “Although I’m not sure why you’re surprised nobody told you about Bucky’s speech. You did quit last minute.”
“I said I would come.” Y/N retorts, refusing to take the bait Valentina’s dangling in front of her. If she confronts her here, Valentina can easily twist the narrative against her, and she refuses to let her have any hold over her anymore.
“Sure you don’t want to come back? You planned an excellent party, I must admit. Didn’t realise you had it in you.” She’s a master at that. Of making compliments feel like poison.
“I’m sure.” Valentina opens her mouth, but before she can say anything, Bucky clears his throat, and his voice fills the air.
“Good evening, all. Thank you for coming.” His eyes scan the room again, landing on Y/N and Valentina. “This night wouldn’t be possible without the incredible woman who organised it all,” Valentina’s smile grows, and Y/N rolls her eyes. “My girlfriend, Y/N.” The room goes silent, save for Valentina sputtering on her wine.
“What?!” she demands.
“What?” Y/N gasps.
“You may have seen an article in a magazine a few days ago about my dating life, one Y/N and I were never consulted about. But Valentina was.” His eyes narrow. “And I’ve decided that I’m tired of letting this woman control my life, and coming between Y/N and I.”
The entire room turns to look at them both. Valentina goes bright red, stammering as she tries to form a coherent sentence. Y/N can’t say anything, still in shock. She considers pinching herself to see if she’s dreaming, but can’t even muster the strength to do that, either. “Y/N.” Bucky sighs. “I’m so, so sorry I let Valentina come between us, and didn’t tell the entire world that I love you, like you deserve. So…” he smiles. “I love you, Y/N. So, so much. You’re the best thing that ever happened to me, and I want to show you off to the world and do everything with you, too. In public, because I want everyone to know how happy I am. And it’s all because of you. I’ve been such an asshole, and you deserve so much better. And again, I’m so, so sorry. I totally understand if you never want to see me again, or take me back. But will you please consider giving me another chance?”
In response, Y/N walks over to him, pulling him into a kiss. The room descends into chaos, and she registers cameras flashing around them, but she and Bucky don’t care. “Of course I will.” she whispers, pecking his lips. “...I didn’t expect this public, though.” She giggles softly. Bucky smiles.
“It’s the least you deserve.”
“God, I love you.”
“I love you too.” He kisses her again, and the press go wild. “Now, come on.” He takes her hand, interlocking their fingers. “We’ve got a lot of time to make up for.”
Please follow @onceuponastory-library and turn on notifications to be notified when I next post!
