Summary: The threat of a stalker brings Bucky onto the team protecting an attractive writer but they’ve already fallen for each other. How can he do his job when he’s emotionally involved with his client?
Length: 5 parts
Characters: Bucky Barnes, named OFC, Pepper Stark, Happy Hogan, Sam Wilson, named OMC.
Warnings: Sexual situations (Rated M), violence, stalking, self-doubt.
Author notes: Takes place after FATWS but Bucky is back in New York, isolating himself from everyone except Sam. Thunderbolts and Captain America 4 haven’t happened.
Part 1. The Lady in Red
Part 2. Recognized
Part 3. Profile
Part 4. Encounter
Part 5. Shadows and Light
Short Fiction Masterlist
‘Tis the Season Masterlist
Please reblog or comment so the author doesn’t feel like no one is reading.
Summary: A chance meeting in a coffee shop leads to a date with a writer that goes very well.
Length: 3 K
Characters: Bucky Barnes, named OFC.
Warnings: Bucky feeling somewhat isolated and lonely.
Author notes: This story takes place after FATWS but Bucky is back in New York, isolating himself from everyone except Sam. Thunderbolts and Captain America 4 haven't happened.
The entire month of November had been cold and dreary, in a way that made Bucky feel all of his years. The leaves had turned quickly, seeming to go directly from green to yellow then falling en masse during one of the many chilly, windy, or rainy days that New York experienced more of during this particular month. There was no chance to enjoy autumn, savouring a relaxing walk under the fall colours of the many different trees in the city. Even visits to his favourite coffee shop weren't doing it for him, as everyone who came in didn't seem inclined to relax in the ambience; instead, they quickly placed their orders then hustled out the door to wherever they had to be. It emphasized his own solitary life, leaving him feeling isolated, alone, and unwilling to put himself out there.
On this specific day, Bucky had just sat down in the coffee shop with his plain black coffee, checking the many text messages from Sam, telling him it was still warm in Delacroix and inviting him to stay a while and work on the boat. Although he appreciated the repeated offers, he felt uneasy about accepting them. Maybe it was the realization doing so would feel like running away from the life he was trying to rebuild in Brooklyn, or maybe it was the thought that if he did go, he was accepting that he couldn't make his own life without Sam's help. Plus, Sam was busy training Joaquin in the intricacies of the wing suit and when they were both up in the air, Bucky felt somewhat left behind. Regardless, it was keeping him from making a decision. Placing his phone on the table, he sipped his coffee, then he noticed a woman outside, in the shadow of the outside awning, looking through the window of the coffee shop, before entering and standing in line.
She looked up at the artistically rendered chalk menu board, with a glowing expression on her face, as if she was looking at a masterpiece. What she wore made her stand out; a bright red coat, one that had an inner liner to provide warmth on the transitional days between fall and winter. Compared to the drab brown, black and grey outerwear most of the others wore, she looked stylish. Her small black purse strapped crosswise across her body and knit cap completed the look. When it came to her turn, the cashier looked at her expectantly.
"There's so much to choose from and I don't know the terminology," she began, as the clerk sighed. "Right, people are waiting. A large mochachino and a piece of coffee cake, please."
She gave her name, paid then waited with the others, trying to temper her curiosity at everything, seeming to find just being there enjoyable. Bucky watched, interested in how she seemed to light up the space with her presence. After picking up her order she turned, looking for an empty table or a spot at the window counter, but the place was quite full for a change. Reaching for his phone, he put it inside his jacket then gestured to the empty chair across from him.
"This chair is free," he offered, unsure why he just did that.
"Oh, thank you!" She smiled as she placed her mug on the table, followed by the small paper bag with her coffee cake and unbuttoned her coat, revealing a soft blue sweater over dark jeans. "I'm so new to this. Everyone at home told me that New Yorkers could be rude ... you just proved otherwise."
Sitting down, she picked up her mug and sipped it, nodding her head at the taste, then pulled out her phone, making a notation in her notes app. All through this Bucky observed her with a bit of amusement and curiosity of his own.
"Where's home?" he asked.
She described her small town, about growing up there, then going to college for her teaching degree, returning to teach English in the local high school. Although it was a longer answer than he was expecting, he found himself interested in her descriptive monologue.
"So, you're a teacher?"
"Well, I was," she answered. "It was always a toss-up between teaching and writing. I wrote stories when I was growing up and continued throughout college. Somehow, I found the time to write a book while I was teaching, self published it then submitted it to a literary agent, and they found a publisher. They expect it to do really well, and the original edition is up for an award, so the publisher suggested I write another, and my agent said it was time to turn to writing full time. It was a big decision, but my marriage had ended, so it seemed like a good time to take a chance and move to New York."
"I'm sorry about the marriage but I'm interested about the book," said Bucky. He pulled a battered paperback out of his jacket. "I'm a bit of a reader. Perhaps I've read it."
She told him the name, but he hadn't heard of it. "I'll get a copy of the new edition for you," she offered. "Even sign it, if you want."
It wasn't so much the offer but the way she said it that made his day a little brighter. Talking to her felt as natural as breathing.
"I'm Bucky," he said, offering his right hand to her.
"Leia, like Princess Leia, but my agent and publisher want me to write as Adriana Weller. Having a pseudonym is supposed to discourage stalkers ... you're not a stalker, are you, Bucky?"
"No, but I am infamous." He shifted a little, surprised at the question and that he had answered it without being offended.
"Because of whom you are." She sipped her drink, then leaned towards him and lowered her voice. "I recognized you from the Flag Smashers coverage. You are much nicer looking in person. They always seemed to catch you in a serious moment."
"I have a lot of those," he smirked. "You're very straightforward."
"I didn't offend you, did I? You can't beat around the bush when you teach high school."
"No, not at all." He flashed his smile at her. "I appreciate it."
He felt his phone vibrate and excused himself to look at it. It was Sam wanting to know if he was up to a call. Bucky responded that he was busy at the moment. Leia just smiled and sipped her drink again, while watching the others who came in. She pulled her own phone out and again noted something in an app. When she slipped it back into her purse, she noticed Bucky watching her and smiled shyly.
"I, uh, observe things and write them down before I forget, on the off chance I get inspiration for a character or a moment in a book. I wrote a little note about meeting a polite New Yorker who offered me a seat at his table. No name or description, as I respect your privacy."
"Thank you, but I am from Brooklyn, just sayin'." He said it with a smile that made his eyes crinkle.
"Noted." She looked him in the eye, resting her chin on her hand. "You're easy to talk to. I've been here about 10 days and so far, other than my agent and editor, I've been yelled at by taxi drivers several times for crossing on the light, cat called by creeps who receive an earful from me for their rudeness, or I've been barely tolerated because I'm not quite up to speed yet in this environment."
"It can be like that." Her words spoke a truth that resonated with him, and he made a decision at that moment. "Would you go out for dinner with me? Nothing fancy, just a Brooklyn boy showing a new friend the neighbourhood. You do live near here, right?"
It was her turn to give him a warm smile.
"Dinner? Only if we split the bill. That way there's no obligation on either of us. I have dating horror stories from after my divorce and it's kind of how I roll these days."
"Well, I'm still very much a 40s man, but if you allow me to bring you flowers, we can split the bill. I wouldn't want to end up in your notes as not being flexible."
"That's a fair compromise," she said. "I live a couple of blocks away. Pick me up at 6:30?"
The time was set, she texted him her contact information and they enjoyed each other's company until they finished their drinks. Later, when Bucky walked over to Leia's place from his, which was a few blocks away from the coffee shop in the other direction, he didn't notice the cold, or the cloudy skies. It felt like the old days, before the war, as he sauntered towards the high rise she lived in, looking forward to the date. He carried sunflowers, wrapped for protection from the cold, hoping she would like them. She did, saying they reminded her of the Van Gogh sunflower paintings, which she loved. Her place was nice, bigger than his, felt warm and comfortable, with a view that showed the lights of other highrises. Considering she had only been there a short time; he was surprised she had personalized it so quickly.
"It's mostly just cushions and a few blankets," she said, as she placed the sunflowers in a vase. "Every time I go out, I try to find something to add, although I did bring some things I couldn't give up. The publisher hired some people to deliver them and set them up."
"I like it," he said, looking over her book collection. "You have some good titles here."
"That reminds me," she murmured, producing a hard cover book Reflections on a Small Town. "There's a saying to write what you know, so I wrote a bunch of stories about growing up in a small town; the good, the bad, and the ridiculous. I personalized the message."
He opened the book up to the title page and smiled slightly at the inscription.
To Bucky Barnes, the big-city boy who showed kindness to a small-town girl.
Leia Dunn, aka Adriana Weller
"Hopefully, you'll never have to sell it to pay for life saving surgery. I haven't signed any of the publicity copies with my real name so this copy will be a collectible someday. You know, since I will probably achieve Margaret Atwood status."
Her grin was infectious, and he grinned back.
"Thank you, I'll make sure to take good care of it and not damage the book jacket," he replied. "If you don't mind, I'll leave it here until I bring you back. Are you ready to go?"
He helped her on with her red coat; after admiring the patterned black, gold, and silver tunic she had paired with black jeans to wear. For the walk to the restaurant, she slipped gloves on, then placed her hand inside the crook of Bucky's elbow once they were out on the sidewalk. As they walked it felt even more familiar to him, just like how it felt to go on a date before the war. He pointed out various buildings along the way, managing to come up with an anecdote for each, most of them involving him and Steve. Stopping briefly at a light, he started across while the wait sign was on, joining others who took the opportunity to cross during the gap in traffic. Placing his hand over hers that still grasped his elbow, he stepped off the curb, assuring her it would be safe.
At the restaurant, Bucky opened the door for Leia, allowing her to enter first, then helped her into her chair. After placing their drink and food orders they sat quietly for a moment then she leaned forward.
"I tried on about six different outfits before you arrived," she said. "I don't think I've been this nervous about a date, other than the first one after I split up with my husband."
"I think you look great," he replied. "For a moment I wondered if you were trying to match my arm."
She tilted her head slightly, unsure of what his comment meant. Taking his gloves off he showed her his left hand.
"Wow, it's beautiful." She reached for it, then looked at him for permission, so he took her hand in it. "This is incredible technology. Fully functional, obviously."
"Yeah, I can feel heat, cold, pressure and touch."
Their drinks came and Bucky found himself enthralled at Leia's anecdotes. She shared some stories about teaching, of her thoughts about moving to the city, including her eagerness to explore everything it had to offer. Her expressive manner made it easy for him to open up to her about his own experiences in Wakanda, especially the culture shock of a traumatized city boy thrust into a rural community minus a limb.
They talked, laughed, and commiserated for hours, until their server came with the bill and apologetically asked them to leave, as they had been there for four hours, and they were closing soon. As agreed, they split the bill and the tip, then Bucky helped Leia on with her coat, and they stepped out into the first snowfall of the coming winter. The soft blanket of white had already covered every surface brightening up the dark as the snow reflected the streetlights' glow. With the sounds of the city muffled by the flakes still lazily drifting down they walked back to Leia's place, silently enjoying the presence of the person they were with. Accompanying her up to her floor, Bucky stuck his hands in his pockets, as they stood outside her apartment door, nervously wondering if he should kiss her or not. He really wanted to, but he also didn't want to come across too strongly.
"I had a really good time," she murmured. "You're a very interesting man and I'm glad you offered me a seat at your table."
"Me too." He rubbed the back of his neck as he towered over her. "Would you go out with me again?"
"I would love to." She unlocked the door and stood in the doorway, sensing his hesitation. "I wish you would kiss me."
Removing the glove on his right hand, Bucky gently slid his fingers into her hair, so he was cradling the back of her head, then lowered his lips to hers. The moment they touched, they both knew it would be a great kiss. Leia molded her body to his, wrapping one arm around his waist and the other over his shoulder. As the kiss deepened and their tongues gently tangled together, he was aware of one thing, her. How she tasted, the smell of her hair and a touch of perfume that was subtle yet captivating; and when she whimpered slightly as he increased his hold on her, he didn't want to go.
"Holy cow," she whispered, as they broke apart a little. "It wasn't just me, was it?"
His breath stuttered a little as it came out. "No, I felt it, too." Grazing her jawline with his fingertips he studied her face, then groaned a little. "I shouldn't say this because we just met, but I don't want to leave."
"I don't want you to leave either." Gently, she caressed his cheek. "But ... I have a breakfast meeting at 7 am with the publisher and I'll have to be up at 6 for it, and I've only known you for a few hours."
"It's too soon, isn't it?"
She nodded, then her eyes lit up. "I'm invited to a party on Friday night, kind of a book launch and introduction to bookstore retailers. I can bring a plus one." Her fingers were toying with the buttons on his leather jacket. "It's a suit and tie thing but it's an open bar and ... and I'm not doing anything on Saturday, if you still don't want to leave."
It was an impulsive offer and he felt just as impulsive when he decided to accept it.
"What time should I pick you up?"
"They're sending a car for me at 7:30 so be here before then."
"Alright, I'll see you Friday."
They kissed again, a quick but sweet kiss, then Bucky headed to the elevator. Just as he pushed the down button, he heard his name, and Leia hurried down the hallway with the book she gave him. It had been overlooked in the special moment they shared.
"You forgot this," she said, sounding a little breathless.
This time, the kiss was intense, as they both crushed their lips together, desperately caught in a sweet tussle of taste and sensation. Her hands slipped under his leather jacket, pressing against his back, while he had one hand entwined in her hair, and the other wrapped around her waist. The elevator doors opened to several people witnessing the kiss. One of them shrugged and pressed the close door button. Neither Bucky nor Leia noticed. When they finally broke for air, she gazed up at him, while he smiled softly at her.
"Holy cow," he whispered. "This is Wednesday night, right?" She nodded slowly. "I've heard that patience builds character. I'll be full of it by Friday."
Her giggle filled Bucky with a warmth he hadn't felt since he was a young man. Reaching for the down button, he pressed it again, as Leia waited with him. When the elevator car reached her floor, he backed into it and pressed the main floor button, watching her intently until the doors closed. It was still snowing out, so he stuffed the book inside his jacket, and walked home, thinking of her the entire way.
Summary: A year later two momentous occasions are pending. First, the three partners of Shield Renovations await the dropping of all charges against them. Secondly, there is a wedding soon to happen.
Warnings: Fluffy fluff with a final touch of anxiety from Bucky.
Author notes: I hope you liked this mostly sweet story of a shy man falling for the right woman. Although there was some darkness, it also showed Bucky’s qualities that made him the better man.
<<Part 9
Part 10
One year later
The three partners sat in Bucky's office late on a Friday afternoon, waiting nervously. The courier was supposed to bring the confirmation directly to them but according to Hope Van Dyne, he had left the District Attorney's office well over an hour ago.
"Maybe he got into an accident," said Sam, cracking his knuckles and getting glares from his two friends at the sounds. "Well, why else would he be late? Don't those guys go all out on their bikes? It's gotta be that or someone trying to stop us getting cleared completely. Pierce could still have people on his payroll."
"You watched that movie again, didn't you?" asked Steve, rolling his eyes. "That Premium Rush one? There are no corrupt cops wanting to screw us over, okay? Both Natasha and Maria said that as far as the NYPD is concerned, we're reformed. They're all rooting for us, plus ever since we did Tom Benson's renovation, he's managed to refer a dozen other clients to us. Our reputation is sterling."
"It will be fine," said Bucky, searching his pockets in vain. He looked at Steve. "Give me some gum, will you?"
He reached into the chest pocket of his Shield Renovations and Construction polo shirt, pulling out a package of gum and handing a strip to Bucky. Another hand appeared in front of him, and he placed one in Sam's hand before taking one himself. Although all three of them gave up smoking, they still needed a substitute vice when they were stressed, and gum was the vice of choice. They sat quietly, chewing away, then the door opened, and Hope came in with a large envelope.
"It's here," she said.
Bucky put his hand out, taking it from her, then she left. At the time he hired her it was because Mrs. Parker said she was swamped but in reality, Hope Van Dyne was her hand-picked choice to replace her. Knowing that the operation was close to being wrapped up, Mrs. Parker had stumbled across the capable administrative assistant on her daily commute, befriending her and offering her consolation over the antics of the younger woman's employer. Even though May Parker contemplated retiring from the FBI to continue working with the company, another undercover assignment was offered to her and she felt compelled to accept it. The last they heard she was working at a private golf club and resort in Florida, keeping an eye on a retired high-level politician who seemed to have a lot of foreign dignitaries visiting him at all hours of the day and night.
"Are you going to open it, or what?" asked Sam, interrupting Bucky's thoughts.
With an irritated glance at his friend, Bucky opened the envelope and pulled out three sheets of paper, handing one each to Sam and Steve. They all read the words on the papers then at each other, slowly smiling.
"We're good," said Sam. "Fury has come through. We're completely legit!"
"We can travel," said Bucky. "I was worried that it wouldn't come through before the wedding and we couldn't go on our honeymoon."
"I can propose now," said Steve, then he blushed.
"Wait, what? You're proposing to Natasha? Does she know? Maria never said anything about a proposal."
"Of course, she doesn't know," answered Steve, pushing Sam in the arm. "Dumbass. It's a proposal. It's supposed to be a surprise."
Sam rubbed his arm, then grinned, offering his hand to Steve. "Congratulations, man. She had you wrapped around her finger from the very start."
"She did not. What about you and Maria? You wanted her to move in within a month."
"Did not. Her lease was ending, and I was being nice."
Bucky watched and listened to their bickering, then crumpled up a post-it note and threw it at Steve. His two friends stopped talking, switching their attention to him.
"Now that we have our confirmation that the charges are all dropped and expunged, I'm going home," he said, standing up. "I'm going to hug my daughter, read her a story and tuck her in, then take my almost wife to bed."
"You can't," said Steve. He ran his hand through his hair. "You're coming out with us for your stag. It's all arranged. Andrea knows that you'll probably crash with me tonight."
"Guys ... I didn't want one."
"I know, but the troops did and a good general always supports his troops. Just so you know, we're meeting at a sports bar that has twenty different burgers, a hundred different beers, and games galore. No strippers, no hookers, nothing that you or we would ever be ashamed of." He gestured at Bucky's company shirt. "I have something for you to change into."
He left, coming back with one of Bucky's favourite shirts. With a sigh, Bucky changed, while Steve and Sam changed theirs. They locked up, since Hope had already left, and headed to where they could hail a taxi. After a short ride they arrived at their destination and made sure that Bucky walked in ahead of them. It was full of every guy who worked for them, including Thor, and Peter Quill. A beer was put into Bucky's hands, then Steve stood on a chair, holding his beer up.
"In a week, Bucky gets married to Andrea, a woman that stole his heart from the first moment he saw her. Sam and I met her two weeks before, quite by accident as she was taking her baby girl, Lily, out for a walk. We were having a smoke break, and this breath of fresh air approached us, then stopped, smiled, and asked where the nearest park was. Sam, being the smooth operator he was, asked about Lily, then gave Andrea advice about child raising, based on his experiences as uncle to his sister's two boys. She thanked him and walked away, leaving us feeling a little colder and in the dark without her presence. Two weeks after that, Bucky joined us, and it was like a light went on in his head and his heart. Those of you who witnessed this special time knew that he was a changed man. In his opinion, he's become a better man since then. To our better man, Bucky Barnes."
They all repeated it and drank to him. He smiled shyly and looked at all of them.
"After my surgery, we decided to change the name of Barnes Contracting to something new. It was Andrea who suggested Shield Renovations and Construction. She said the shield would represent protection, something that she felt with us. She told me of how you all waited at the hospital during my surgery and told stories about us, about how we gave you all a second chance to be better men. Obviously, you all wanted it, because you bought into our limited scope of operations and when we went legitimate you stayed with us. We wouldn't be where we are today without you all. Thank you for believing in us and in yourselves. We're only as good as the people who work for us, and right now, I think we have the best of men as our employees."
He drank more of his beer, then received many handshakes and shoulder squeezes from everyone as they began to party. For several hours Bucky nursed his beers, drinking only three in total. After making sure Steve and Sam got home okay, he took a taxi to the brownstone and paid the driver, looking up at the building in the dark. He sat on the top step and opened his phone, flipping through the gallery of photos he took of the renovation, finished seven months before. In many ways it was a record of the second part of his and Andrea's relationship. The job became a labour of love as he steered the renovation alongside her, making sure she was involved in all the aspects of doing it right, the first time.
Everything new had to be done to last a lifetime, and everything old that he kept from the original had to be restored to the highest quality. When the project was finished, and they took the walkthrough together before moving her furniture back, she turned to him.
"You are moving in with me, right?" she asked. "This is all so beautiful, that you must have done some of it for yourself."
"It was all for you, but I am moving in with you," he replied. "My apartment was what I thought Dot wanted, and I stayed there because it cost a lot. It was more of a home with you and Lily there but this is the home I want to live the rest of my life in."
He placed his hand casually in his pocket, feeling the edge of the ring box, then drew it out, when her back was turned as she opened the butler's pantry door and went inside. When she came out, he was down on one knee, with the box opened towards her, and she gasped in surprise.
"Will you marry me? Will you stand with this former criminal and keep me on the good path that I've tried to stay on since I met you? Will you let me be Lily's father in name and not just practice?"
"Yes, yes, and yes," she replied without hesitation. "I'll marry you. The path is wide enough that you'll never fall off, not with me at your side. As for Lily, Brock has given up his rights to her. He never wanted her, except for the money she would bring him."
As he slid the vintage engagement ring onto her ring finger, he gazed at her face, then stood up. When she looked up at him, he saw only love, something he never saw with Dot. That was the night they made love for the first time, a perfect melding of hearts, souls, and flesh that made his dick thicken as he thought of it. Even though they picked up their relationship from where they left off, he didn't push Andrea into anything she wasn't ready for. Some of their make out sessions became steamy but, in his heart, Bucky knew they would be together in every way when the time was right. Waiting just made their first time incredibly special.
The selfie of them in the kitchen with her showing off her engagement ring was the last of the renovation pictures. Sighing as he closed the gallery Bucky thought of when he sold his apartment condo, paid his mother back for the renovations and invested the rest, including starting up a college fund for Lily. In the seven months they had shared the brownstone he lived as he always wanted, without worry and fear of the law coming after him, with someone he loved more than anything.
Standing up, he entered the code on the door panel, closing and locking the door behind him. Slipping his shoes off, he hung up his jacket in the closet and made his way up to the second floor. Checking in on Lily first, he grinned at how she was sprawled out in her "big girl" bed. At 19 months she was walking and talking, and still just as friendly to almost everyone she met. The guys at the warehouse loved seeing her whenever Andrea stopped by. It was hilarious watching a bunch of grown men trying to entertain her by making goofy faces and sounds to get her attention. She had her favourites; Clint, the father of three who was now their foreman, and Scott, who was in a serious relationship with Hope. He knew magic and could make Lily laugh and clap her hands at his simple tricks. Surprisingly, at least to Bucky, she liked Luis, who was teaching her Spanish, even bringing some Spanish language children's books to the warehouse to read to her whenever she climbed up on his lap. Of course, she had soft spots for her godfathers Sammy and Steeby. Every time they were over at the house, she went from one to the other, scamming them out of candy or money. His mother's love for the little girl was as strong as if she had been related by blood. Nana always got hugs and kisses, giving them back in turn. If only Andrea's parents saw her more, it would be perfect. Although they had finally met there was still an element of disapproval from her mother, over their daughter being a single mother, living with a man who was not the father of her child, even though the biological father was an absolute bastard. On the other hand, her father had tried since that meeting to stay in touch with Andrea, often coming over and doting on Lily.
Moving towards his daughter, Bucky gently tugged the blanket over her, then put a stuffed animal under her arm. Kneeling down, he kissed her on the head and whispered his usual saying to her.
"Sleep tight, little star. In the morning, I'll catch you in my hand and make a wish to love you forever and always."
Getting up from his knees, he stood at the doorway again, basking in the love he felt for this toddler. From there he quietly entered the bedroom and stepped into the ensuite bathroom to remove his clothes and brush his teeth. He always kept a pair of sweatpants on a hook and put them on, then slipped under the bed covers, spooning behind Andrea. She made the sweetest sound when he draped his arm over her waist.
"I thought you were staying at Steve's?"
"I only had a few beers, so I came home. Besides, he snores when he's had too much."
She rolled over, kissed him sweetly on the mouth, then snuggled into his chest.
"I'm glad you're home. It was hard to get to sleep without you. Did you have a good time?"
"Yeah, it was good to see everyone outside of work. Thor and Peter Quill were there as well." He kissed the top of her head. "In a week we'll be married."
He could feel her smile forming on his chest, then she looked up at him again.
"Are we going to announce the baby?"
"I think we should wait. You're only six weeks along. Although they'll probably figure it out when you don't drink any alcohol."
"Probably," she yawned. "Natasha thinks Steve might be proposing to her. She said he's been acting quite mysterious lately. Did he say anything to you?"
He couldn't help but smile. If he lied, Andrea would know it. If he didn't lie and she told Natasha, Steve wouldn't be happy with him.
"It was brought up, but he won't say when it's going to happen. You're not going to tell her, are you?"
She didn't answer but by her regular breathing he could tell she was asleep. He didn't even get a chance to tell her about the charges being dropped. That could wait until the morning. He kissed her head again and closed his eyes, feeling like he was the luckiest man in the world.
💍 💐
One week later
Having his head down between his knees wasn't helping Bucky breathe, even as his mother rubbed his back soothingly. Sam and Steve stood there, wringing their hands, hoping that their friend wasn't about to pass out just 10 minutes before his wedding. Winnifred looked up at the two of them.
"Get him some water," she said. "Send Dr. Banner in."
"Yeah, good idea," said Steve, relieved at the suggestion. "Sam, you get the doctor, and I'll get the doctor." Sam looked at him, then slapped him lightly upside the back of his head. "What the hell?"
"We can't both get the doctor," replied the other man.
"Boys, focus," said Winnifred. "Sam, you get the water. Steve, you get the doctor. Go."
She shook her head. For 34-year-old men, they still had their dumbass moments where they acted 14.
"I don't know why I'm like this," gasped Bucky. "I want to get married. I love Andrea and want to be with her. I feel almost like I did whenever I saw blood. Ma, why is this happening now?"
How he got that torrent of words out when he could barely breathe made no sense to Winnifred, but she wasn't about to call her son out on it. He always had been a sensitive soul, and she was sure this had something to do with it. Bruce Banner arrived first, accompanied by Steve.
"What's the problem?" he asked.
"He feels like he's going to faint," said Winnifred. "Said it's like whenever he saw blood before."
"Bucky, do you feel like you're going to vomit?" asked Banner.
"Yes ... no, I don't know. I just don't feel right, like I'm going to pass out at any moment."
"Hey, look at me." Bucky raised his head. "Tell me three things that you see."
"Um, the chair ... the mirror ... um, um, the carpet."
"Good," smiled Bruce. "Now, three sounds. What can you hear, right now?"
Bucky breathed in heavily. "My breath. The sound of music outside." He focused more on Dr. Banner. "A siren, far away."
"Excellent. Just breathe, steady in for five then out for five. Now I want you to move three body parts. Can you do that?"
"Yeah."
He sat up and moved his head from side to side. Then he clenched and unclenched his fists. Finally, he stuck his feet out in front of him, then brought them back to their original position. Sam appeared with the water.
"I had to wait for the bartender to show up ... oh, you look better."
He gave the water to Bucky, who nodded his head and sipped it, then took a longer drink. He kept breathing in and out, following Dr. Banner's example. The older man patted him on the shoulder.
"Feel better, now?"
"Yeah, I do. Thanks."
"No problem. It was just a little bit of anxiety you were feeling. If it happens again try the 3-3-3. Three things you can see, three things you can hear and move three body parts. It redirects your brain to stop the anxiety. Works every time." The doctor stood up. "Just give him a couple of minutes. Winnie, are you walking him down the aisle?"
"I am now," she said.
"Just support him. He'll be fine once he gets to the front. I have to say this is a nice place for a wedding. Very picturesque."
He left and Winnifred kept rubbing Bucky's back. Finally, he nodded and stood up.
"Okay, let's get married."
The wedding planner arrived to tell them it was time. Together, they walked to where the outdoor ceremony was set up in the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Sam and Steve walked towards the officiant first, positioning themselves at the front, then Bucky walked out with his mother, stopping at the first row of chairs to kiss her on the cheek, before he joined his friends. Then Natasha and Maria appeared, with Lily in front of them, her tiny hands holding a basket of flower petals. As When You Wish Upon a Star played, the little girl, wearing a lacy pink dress, scattered her petals, stopping to put some in people's hands along the way. Bucky felt his heart in his throat, as his lips trembled, seeing his daughter taking her roll so seriously. Then she saw him.
"Dada," she cried, dropping the basket, and running to him, making everyone swoon at the sight, as he picked her up and kissed her.
"You stay with me, and we'll watch Mama together, okay?"
She nodded then pointed to where Andrea waited while the music to A Groovy Kind of Love started. He laughed at first, then began to cry at how beautiful she looked. She stood alone at the other end, then she looked to one side and was joined by her father. Kissing her on the cheek, he walked her down the aisle, a big grin on his face. There were more kisses when she arrived to where Bucky stood, from her dad to her and Lily, then a handshake to the groom.
For such a memorable moment in his life, Bucky could never remember much of the ceremony itself. He remembered how Andrea looked while they gazed at each other as if they were the sun, moon, and stars personified. He remembered saying "I do" and putting the wedding band on her finger but everything else was a blur until they kissed. Lily had already wiggled out of his arms to go to his mother, making everyone laugh. When he was told he could kiss the bride he placed his hands on Andrea's cheeks, then kissed her softly and sweetly, wanting it to last forever.
More flower petals were tossed at them as they walked down the aisle and led everyone to the pool beside the Palm House, set up for cocktails. They left briefly for photographs amongst the flowers blooming nearby. When the late afternoon turned into the evening, and the light became more golden as sunset approached, the Palm House was opened for the reception. The glass walled structure, filled with more colourful flowers, and festooned in fairy lights, seemed magical in appearance. Lily was entranced by it and clapped her hands in pure joy.
The first dance for the couple was to You Make Me Feel Brand New, the third song they ever danced to when Andrea had to nudge Bucky into finally kissing her. Everyone who had been there from the start of Bucky and Andrea's relationship, watched with soft smiles on their faces at the tenderness between the couple. That song was the one most suited for the wedding dance, although the other two songs made it to the set list. It wasn't all 70s and 80s music, as they made sure there was something for everyone, including some sultry Spanish style songs that brought out Steve and Natasha, in a repeat of the first time they danced.
If anyone noticed that Andrea wasn't drinking, they didn't say anything, although Winnifred and several others suspected that Lily would have a sibling early in the new year. The toddler held out for a long time, dancing with her parents and with anyone she asked. No one turned her down. When she finally conked out, a bed of sorts was made for her using a cushioned bench and Steve's borrowed jacket as a blanket. She slept there, oblivious to everything around her, until her parents made their goodbyes, and Winnifred lifted the little girl up in her arms, carrying her out to the limousine that took them home to her apartment.
The party went on for some time. Steve, after a quite energetic dance with Natasha, suggested they go out to the pool to cool off. They sat on a bench on the far side of the pool, overlooking the dark water, which reflected the lights coming from the Palm House.
"What a great wedding," she smiled, resting her head on his shoulder. "This was such a beautiful place to have it."
"It was," he agreed, looking up at the night sky. "We could have a great wedding here."
"You have to ask me first," chuckled Natasha.
He looked at her. "I'm asking."
It took her a moment to respond then she lifted her head up to look at him, aware that she could hear her heart beating loudly in her ears.
"What are you asking?"
"If you'll marry me. I think we could have something amazing together."
It was what he said to her the night of their first date.
"Yeah?" She swallowed. "Maybe, but there are complications."
He tilted his head slightly, smiling at that answer. "You already married?" She shook her head. "Engaged?"
"I could be, to the right guy."
"Natasha, I'm the right guy for you. I knew it from the first moment I saw you standing inside our office. I wanted you then and I want you for the rest of our lives." Gently, he traced her jaw with his fingertips. "Say yes to being amazing together. Say yes to the guy who loves you for the incredible woman you are."
"Steve?"
"Yeah?"
"Yes. Now shut up and kiss me."
Pulling her onto his lap, he kissed her fiercely, holding her as if he never wanted to let her go. Reaching into his pocket, he brought out the ring box and opened it. Natasha almost stopped breathing at the size of the diamond. She knew business was good, but this....
"It's not hot, is it?"
"Baby, I'm a legitimate businessman now. This didn't fall off a truck. Legally bought and paid for."
She admired it on her hand, then they stayed out there for some time, kissing and enjoying each other's company. When Sam appeared across the pool to say they had to close things up, he grinned at them, knowing that he would be repeating his own version of a proposal soon.
🌃 🌌
In the hotel room, Bucky, and Andrea, were catching their breath, laying on top of the rumpled duvet with their legs intertwined and her head on his chest. Their wedding clothes, strewn everywhere, weren't a priority, until his phone signalled a text message. Climbing off the bed, Bucky picked up his jacket, searching for the phone but it wasn't in any of the pockets. My pants, the phone must be in my pants. Where are they?
Andrea watched with amusement as he looked for his pants, then she got up and lifted her dress up from the floor, pulling his pants out from underneath it and reaching inside one the pockets to retrieve his phone, placing it in his hand. He grinned, kissed her, then opened the message, which he showed to Andrea.
Steve: She said yes.
"What should I say?" he asked.
"Congratulations, now go celebrate," suggested Andrea. "Then come back to bed and put it on silent."
He sent the message, put the phone on silent and tossed it onto a chair. Climbing back on the bed, he hovered over his wife, then stopped. His wife ... this woman was his wife and in the new year, she would be the mother of his child. How did he get so lucky?
"You okay?" she asked. "You were somewhere else for a moment."
"I was right here, thinking of how lucky I am that I have you in my life. You changed me, changed everything for the better when you walked past Barnes Contracting."
She shook her head, caressing her face.
"All I did was take Lily for a walk. Grandma said it was important to know the neighbourhood and your neighbours." She shrugged. "I just figured it would be good to know who had businesses in the neighbourhood as well. She was a teacher and knew lots of people."
"What was your grandma's name?"
"Lily Dugan," she answered. "She was a widow. My grandpa, her husband, died when I was little. She always said there was no better man than him. That's how I feel about you."
Bucky felt a lump in his throat. Dugan was the name of his dad's friend, who worked with him at Barnes Contracting. He remembered him, a big burly man with a large moustache and genial attitude who always made him laugh, even after the incident. Then suddenly, he wasn't around anymore, and his parents were sad for some time. Was it a coincidence or fate that brought Andrea past the very building her grandfather had worked at? It didn't matter, not in the long run. Placing one hand on Andrea's, he moved it so he could kiss her palm, then laid with his head on her chest as she ran her hand through his hair. He was right where he wanted to be; in the arms of the woman he loved, the woman he would always say made him a better man.
Summary: Bucky makes it right with his former girlfriend. Second part of two part story.
Length: 3.8 K
Warnings: Angst, acknowledgement of emotional distancing.
<<Part 1
🔹 🔹 🔹
It had been several weeks since Bucky bought his suit at the store where I worked. He picked up the trousers that had been hemmed, waiting until I went on my lunch break to take them, so that we didn’t meet. Even though it was what I wanted, a part of me was hurt that he didn’t even try to see me. The suit looked good when I saw the TV coverage of the White House visit showing the Avengers receiving their commendation for a difficult mission that was successfully completed without the loss of life. Fashion blogs singled him out for the black monochromatic look he wore, saying it was obvious he had a professional stylist help him look so handsome and debonair. It was flattering and devastating to me at the same time. I knew I was good at my job, but I also knew that by remaining coldly professional with him I likely destroyed any chance of ever reconciling with him. C’est la vie.
We did notice an uptick in sales after the fashion blogs took note, as someone connected to the Avengers PR team mentioned our store, and the excellent customer service Bucky encountered in his search for a suit. The store manager was pleased, commending me for taking advantage of the lucky opportunity to sell a suit to an Avenger as well-known as Bucky Barnes. If he only knew the truth, that I only did it so I could see my former boyfriend once more. Then I noticed a couple of the other Avengers showing up, some of them like Joaquin Torres and Peter Parker browsing in the men’s wear selection, shyly waving at me when I became aware of their presence. Others, like Yelena Belova and Kate Bishop trying things on in the women’s wear or makeup departments. If I had been a suspicious person, I would have thought they were spying on me. But I wasn’t and they weren’t, at least not in the way I was expecting.
It wasn’t until I became aware of the celebrity gossip shows promoting the appearance of Bucky at several premieres and fashion events with some starlet on his arm that I understood why they had been at the store. As long as I was unaware of what was going on everything was alright. But as soon as Bucky moved on, I wasn’t alright; I wasn’t happy at all. When Sam showed up just before my lunch hour one day (with suspiciously accurate timing) I knew he was there for me.
“I’m fine,” I said to him, when he presented himself near the staff room door to intercept me.
“You’re not,” he said bluntly. “You’re allowed to leave the store for an hour, right? Come with me and we’ll talk. I’ll buy you lunch.”
Five minutes later we were in a small café, our hands around a couple of cups of coffee and an order placed for a Cobb salad for me, and burger with fries for him.
“Ever since he showed up at the White House wearing the suit you chose for him, the PR team has been pushing him to be more visible,” he said. “Apparently, he’s got the hottest look going for men right now and they want to take advantage of him being the first one to show up in public like that. He’s not dating any of them. In fact, he doesn’t even like doing it.”
“Could have fooled me,” I said. “Not that it matters since we broke up months ago. He’s free to see anyone he wants.”
“He doesn’t want anyone else,” declared Sam. “He only stayed away because that’s what you wanted; what you indicated the last time he saw you.”
“I know that,” I answered. “I created a monster. Now I have to live with my creation.”
He breathed out my name, but I just glared at him. Even though seeing Bucky out with those other women hurt, I knew objectively that he had no obligations to me, just as I had none to him. We were both free agents, free to do what we wanted or see whoever we chose to see. The fact I hadn’t even gone out on a single date since we broke up was beside the point. I could go with whoever I wanted, once I was ready. Sam gamely tried to make me feel better and even tried again to convince me to speak with Bucky, but I was pretty adamant. We were done. Taking some cash out of my purse for my part of the bill I left it on the table.
“Hey, no, this is my treat,” said Sam, putting it back in my hand. “Please, just think about things, will you?”
“You know, Sam, I would,” I said. “It’s just that when we were together, he never wanted to go out in public with me. Said he didn’t like the attention. I only wanted to go out maybe once a week to dinner or a movie and he wouldn’t do that for me. Yet, he manages to go out for the PR people several times a week with different beautiful women, meeting celebrities, rubbing shoulders with the famous people, people who don’t even matter to him. What does that say to me, the woman he supposedly loved. He needs to get his priorities straight, don’t you think?”
Sam’s face fell as he didn’t have a comeback for that because it was true. When I stepped outside it was raining which was just great, as it totally added to the crying I was trying not to do. By the time I got back to the store I had to excuse myself to the ladies' room and fix my makeup before I was presentable again. I threw myself into my job and tried to put any thought of James Buchanan Barnes out of my head.
That lasted another week until I was on the late shift, helping to close down the store at 9 pm. As a manager, it was my responsibility to go through the various departments, confirming that every till was closed off, the empty cash drawer left open to indicate the employer had bagged the money, minus the float, and taken both upstairs, where another manager confirmed they turned both amounts in. Security had already shooed the customers out, although there was always one or two who showed up with a minute or two left until the store closed, insistent they could get what they wanted quickly and at no inconvenience to the staff. Fortunately, the security staff were under strict orders to refuse entry to anyone arriving up to 5 minutes before closing, citing store security policy. A few years before someone had showed up, then hid in a storeroom and waited until they were certain they were alone, in an attempt to rob the safe. They weren’t alone, as the security system picked them up as soon as they exited the storeroom. By the time they made it up to the office the police were waiting with drawn guns.
It was 9:30 by the time I finished my duties and grabbed my purse and jacket, ready to take the train to my apartment, almost an hour’s ride away. I was tired, both emotionally and physically. After saying goodnight to the security guard on duty while he let me out, I headed towards the subway station when I heard my name being called. Turning around I saw Bucky, leaning against a car that was parked on the street. With a sigh, I approached him.
“What do you want?” I asked, knowing I was sounding abrupt, but I was too tired to care.
“Just to talk,” he said. “Get in, I’ll drive you home.” I looked around, trying to think of something, anything to say to him, as to why that wouldn’t be a good idea. “Please.”
He held the door open for me, waiting to make sure I was buckled in before he closed the door then he got behind the wheel and started up the car. Smoothly, he pulled into traffic and headed towards Queens. The sound system was on, connected to one of his jazz playlists. Turning it down so that it didn’t overwhelm us he drove quietly for a few moments.
“How are you?” he asked, finally.
“Fine.”
“Sweetheart, I know that fine means a lot of things, but it usually isn’t something good. Please, talk to me.”
“Alright, if you want to know the truth. I’m not fine. I work, I go home, force myself to eat something, then I watch TV until I fall asleep in front of it. Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and drag myself to bed and other times I don’t, waking up in my clothes the next morning. Then I shower, force myself to eat breakfast and go to work. That’s my life. Satisfied?”
He breathed heavily, almost angrily, although his face seemed more upset than angry.
“Sam told me he talked to you.”
“And? What more do you want me to add, Bucky?”
“It wasn’t my idea to go out to these events,” he said. “It’s an obligation I would rather not have.”
“Right, yet you still do it. I only asked for us to go out on occasion like a real couple and you didn’t feel any obligation to do it for me, but you’ll do it for PR people. Did you not want people to know we were a couple?”
“Did you?” he countered. “I noticed that you didn’t say anything to the people you work with that we were a couple once upon a time. Were you ashamed of me?”
“No, I wasn’t,” I snapped. “I didn’t say anything to them because they’re a bunch of gossips who would have bugged me constantly for any juicy tidbits about the Avengers.” I looked out the window, shaking my head, while I trembled inside. “I didn’t need that in my life.”
Bucky looked away for a moment before looking at me. “What did you need? Because I feel there were a whole lot of things that I obviously didn’t know you wanted or needed. What did I miss?”
I knew if I started listing things that I would start crying so I said the only thing I could think of. “Everything.”
He looked stunned before he pulled over to an open spot, parking the car. Then he turned to me.
“Darlin’, look at me.” His voice was so silky and soft. When I turned towards him, I could feel the tears streaming down my cheeks, unchecked. “I’m so sorry that I hurt you. I honestly thought I was holding you back.”
“You see, this is why … I couldn’t do it anymore,” I cried. “You were so unavailable to me, even when we were in the same room. You didn’t tell me things; didn’t say anything about your thoughts or fears. I thought I wasn’t that important to you. I thought that what we had was physical more than anything. So, I withdrew as well, trying to protect myself from how much it hurt.” I looked at him, feeling the pain on his face in my gut. “Aren’t we a pair?”
“Is there any chance to make it right? I don’t want anyone else; I never did.”
“I don’t know,” I admitted. “I want to believe that I matter to you, I really do.”
I undid my seatbelt and opened the door, unable to take any more of it. Before I had even gone ten feet, Bucky was in front of me, blocking me from going any further. Every move I made to get past him; he countered it. It was too much, and I broke down completely, wailing like a baby. He enclosed me in his arms at that moment and held me, stroking my hair and rubbing my back, just letting me cry it out until I was spent. When I stopped crying, I didn’t know what time it was, or where we were. All I was aware of was the warmth of his body and the sound of his heart pounding as I laid my head against his chest. Then Bucky murmured something, and I wasn’t sure I heard him right, so I looked up at him.
“What did you say?”
“I said, let’s go home,” he repeated, looking into my eyes.
“Which home?”
My place was still quite a drive away in Queens. When we broke up, he had been living in a small flat in Brooklyn. It wasn’t the nicest place, but it was what his Army pension and a government stipend could afford. With a smile he kissed me.
“I have something to show you,” he said quietly, gazing at me with those blue eyes. I started to ask for details, but he placed his fingertips on my lips. “Let me show you, then you can ask me anything.”
Just the way he was looking at me, so softly and sweetly, I knew it was something important. We got back in the car and were soon on our way to Brooklyn. On a street in Prospect Heights, Bucky slowed up, then parked in front of a brownstone that had scaffolding set up in front of it. He turned the car off and pointed to it.
“With what I make with the Avengers and my lawsuit settlement finally coming through I decided to invest in a home. It needed some work as it was used as a rooming house for a long time. New plumbing, flooring, HVAC, windows, and then when it’s finished, painting and furnishings. Would you like to see it?”
I could see that it meant a lot to him, so I nodded, and he came around to open the car door for me, offering his hand to help me out, still very much a 1940s gentleman. He followed me up the steps then entered a number in the keypad which unlocked the door. Turning on the entryway light he stepped back to allow me to enter first. The floors were covered in a layer of protective paper. The walls had been refinished but still needed a final coat of plaster, then paint, and the windows needed trimming, but the lighting fixtures were up and as he turned them on, I could see that it would be a lovely home. He showed me the kitchen and unlocked the door to a terrace that led down to a small patio area with a shade tree. Returning back to the house we went upstairs to the second floor which had two bedrooms, one of them a large master with an ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. The stairs led to a third floor with two more bedrooms. All of them had hardwood floors and had been painted in a soft grey colour. As we headed back down to the living room area, he told me more.
“The basement has an office and a workout room. I’ll need somewhere to stay fit.”
I looked at the back of his head, as he descended ahead of me on the stairs, puzzled by the last comment because I knew that Stark Tower had the best in terms of fitness facilities.
“What’s going on?” I asked. “Why are you showing me this now?”
He stepped out into the living room area, took a breath, then placed his hand on mine, playing with my fingers.
“When I agreed to be part of the Avengers, I never envisioned being in a relationship with anyone,” he began. “I thought it would be enough to pay back society for what I did as the Winter Soldier, maybe date a bit, and then someday, buy a bar somewhere on a tropical island and finish out my days there. Then I met you, and it threw me for a loop. I didn’t handle it well, convincing myself that you would realize I wasn’t a good bet. So, I held myself apart from you. I guess I was deliberately sabotaging our relationship, trying to see how far I could push you away before you left. Well, I found out and I hurt you in the process. I hurt us both because I rationalized that it was all for the better. Then I saw you again, at the store.”
“Sam told me you were there deliberately, to see me. You bought those boots on an impulse so you would have an excuse to come back.”
He didn’t deny it. “All those times you offered to help me buy a nice suit and I turned you down because I thought you were just being polite. Then I needed help for real and you were so detached and professional, that I figured it really was over between us. When the PR people said they wanted me to be out and about, showing how I had evolved from this jeans and T-shirt guy to someone who could represent the organization I said yes, thinking I should be a better team player. The others kept telling me you were hurting after the first PR pictures and videos came out. They could see it every time one of them came into the store then you admitted how much you were struggling to Sam. It just all came to a head how unfair I had been to you.”
“Tell me,” I demanded. “Tell me how you’ve been unfair. I want to know if you realize what you really did.”
He had the decency to look embarrassed. “I know that I wasn’t good at telling you how much you meant to me. When we were on missions, I know I should have called you or texted you more, just to say I was thinking of you and couldn’t wait for when I got back. It wasn’t fair asking you to look after me when I was hurt. I tried to rationalize it by convincing myself that because I would be healed the next day that it wouldn’t bother you, but it did, didn’t it?” I sobbed out loud then, and his face broke. “I guess the worst thing is that I was being selfish when I didn’t want to go out. Part of me tried to say it was time devoted to you, but the truth was that I was afraid to be out with you; not just because I was afraid of people judging me, wondering why I should have someone like you in my life when I’ve taken so many lives. There was hate mail, threatening to hurt my loved ones.” I stopped crying, as this was the first that I had heard of it. “So, I rationalized staying home so I could protect you, not thinking that it made you feel trapped.” He touched my face with a worried expression on his. “How am I doing?”
“What does this have to do with buying a house?” I asked. He took another deep breath.
“I’m retiring from active duty,” he said. “They’re recruiting a bunch of new people, some of them kids but with powers that make me look like a stick in the mud. In many ways I am a stick in the mud. I like my 40s music, I don’t get reality TV, and I haven’t had a break since 1943. I think I’ve earned the right to have a private life. I’ll still help train these new kids, and if there’s a big mission, I’ll consider going on it, but I want a home, and a family, with a wife and kids, and a dog, and a cat … all of it.”
“What else will you do?”
“Get my GED, go to college,” he replied. “Maybe be a house husband, cook the meals, clean the house, and look after my kids while my wife continues on her career, if that’s what she wants to do. I’m in a new century and there are parts of it I want to embrace as long as I have the right person with me.” He was touching my face again, with his fingertips just brushing against my jaw. “I asked you earlier what I could do to make it right. I already knew the answer. I make you the focus of my life. It’s all about you and should have been from the start. Let me make you happy, let me show you every day how much you matter.”
I wanted to believe him and by the look on his face he wanted me to believe him as well. He bought a house, a big one, to fill with love and laughter, children and pets, and he bought it for me. Not only that, but he was also willing to retire, and start doing something else with his life; embracing the life he wanted in the 1940s but wasn’t allowed to have until now, if only I was willing to embrace it with him.
“You know, I was thinking of getting out of retail,” I said. “The hours aren’t great for relationships, from Thanksgiving on through the New Year the crowds are ridiculous, and customer service isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be. I’m at a point in my life where I’m ready to try something different.”
“Like what?” he asked, a soft smile on his face.
“Like marriage and a family, and a husband who adores me.”
“I can provide that,” he murmured, his arms moving around my waist. “If you’re sure that’s what you want, then I’m more than willing to help you get it.”
“Is that a proposal?” It became very still at that moment.
“No, but I can do that, too,” he said, not missing a beat. “That’s a promise.”
Our lips met then, and he poured every bit of his love for me into that kiss. We stood in that unfinished living room, the smell of plaster still in the air from the first coat put on the walls. There were no window coverings so anyone passing by would have seen Bucky Barnes and some woman kissing like there was nothing else in the world pressing upon them. When I got into his car after work, I was certain that this was it, the end was coming, and whatever was keeping us apart was too big to overcome. Instead, I found someone who wanted what I wanted, and was willing to change his life to make me happy. If he was willing to do that, then so was I. I never wanted him to quit the Avengers for me, but it was always going to be an option now, a choice that we could make together, when the time was right. The timing was perfect.
Summary: Bucky escorts Leia to a “meet the author” function hosted by her publisher. An encounter with an overly-friendly fan leads to the revelation that Leia is facing some challenges.
Warnings: Minors DNI - contains sexual content (not explicit) which may be unsuitable for those under the age of 18, stalker behaviour, Leia concerned for Bucky’s well being.
<<Part 1
Friday couldn't come soon enough for Bucky. He talked to Sam on Thursday about meeting Leia and being completely bowled over by her. At first, his friend teased him but when Bucky didn't respond to the bait, Sam's tone changed.
"You're really serious about her?" he asked, curious at how Bucky's voice changed when he spoke about her. "That's fast."
"I am," admitted the super soldier. "It's like I've known her for a long time but there's so many layers to her that I want to spend the rest of my life getting to know her better. The best part is that I have no doubts about us; she makes me feel good in every way."
"Damn, that's something." Sam's voice was warm and supportive. "I should make a trip to New York soon to meet her. If she's all that, then it's a good thing for you."
"It is a good thing for me, and I'll spend all my time with her being the best man I can be."
On Friday evening, Bucky walked to Leia's through the light snowfall. He carried his dress shoes in a gym bag, not wanting to get them wet. He also carried a change of clothes, after confirming with her that this time he was staying. He wore his only suit, a black one, with a white shirt and black tie, sending her a selfie before he left, to make sure it was okay for the occasion. She sent back a short video of her blowing him a kiss, that made him feel giddy with anticipation. The look on her face when she opened her apartment door was proof that she was impressed.
"Wow, you look great," she smiled. "You could have been a model."
His cheeks warmed up in embarrassment at her compliment as he took his walking shoes off, then he took a good look at her, wearing a red knit dress that hugged her body, with sleek black boots, her hair pulled back into a low bun and gold hoops in her ears.
"You look stunning. Red is your colour."
"Thank you." She noticed his bag. "You can put your bag in the bedroom, if you want, and change into your dress shoes."
Following her to the bedroom, Bucky placed his bag on a chair and took his dress shoes out. She waited as he put them on, trying not to seem like she was hovering. Standing up when the lacing was done, he approached where she leaned against her dresser, idly taking one of her hands in his.
"I should be nervous," he said quietly, kissing her hand. "I'm not very good at social situations but with you I feel calm."
She glanced down for a moment, then swallowed. "For what it's worth, I feel the same about you." The buzzer from the lobby sounded and she looked at him apologetically. "That will be the driver. We should get down there."
He helped her on with the red coat, then waited as she locked up. When they entered the lobby the driver nodded at her, then noticed Bucky, his eyes widening slightly in recognition. The ride into Manhattan took a little longer due to the snow on the streets but they didn't mind, as they held hands in the back seat. Several times during the drive, the driver glanced back at Bucky in the rear-view mirror, confirming that he recognized the super soldier. At the location where the event was being held, he gave Leia a card with his phone number, explaining he would need about 10 minutes lead time to pick her up.
"Make sure you're not alone while you're waiting," he said, then gestured to Bucky. "I'm sure this guy will keep you safe."
Before either of them could comment he left them at the entrance. After checking Leia's coat in, they were directed to the event, a transformed workspace in a former industrial building. Holding Bucky's hand, she looked for her agent, finding her inside the large area which was decorated with a winter theme.
"Adriana, you're here," said the older woman, air kissing Leia on both cheeks. "Who is your handsome date?"
"Roberta, this is Bucky Barnes."
Her agent hesitated for a moment, then offered her hand. Bucky's presence obviously surprised her, but she quickly introduced him to her husband, then sought out the host of the event, introducing the pair. He was gracious to both, then advised Leia that she would be introduced along with several other authors mid way through the evening, followed by her participation in a book signing. In the meantime, she should mingle.
"Let's get a drink," she suggested to Bucky.
As they made their way to the bar, she noticed the way people looked at Bucky with trepidation and whispered to each other. By the time she placed her request for some white wine, she was troubled by the reaction to him. With their glasses in hand, they retreated to a spot where they felt comfortable. Soon, Leia felt Bucky's fingers touching her own.
"I'm alright," he said, feeling a little bothered at the scrutiny that was being directed at her because of his presence. "I'm not bothered by the whispers. I've heard it enough times."
"Well, it bothers me," she declared. "They don't even know you."
"True, but my past makes it difficult for them to approach me. Most people don't see past what I was."
Another guest arrived, being well known enough to cause some excitement and divert attention away from Bucky and Leia. After she was introduced to a few people, the new arrival looked around, making eye contact with Bucky, and smiling. Immediately, she came over, raising her hand in greeting.
"I didn't expect to see you here," said Pepper Stark, smiling kindly at him.
"I'm here with Leia," he replied, then looked at his date with a slight frown. "Am I to introduce you by your pseudonym or your real name?"
"If it's a friend you trust, my real name, otherwise my pen name, or both," smiled Leia.
"Pepper Stark, meet Leia Dunn, otherwise known as Adriana Weller," said Bucky.
"Yes, the author of Reflections on a Small Town," exclaimed Pepper. "I enjoyed that very much. I'm glad your agent submitted the manuscript to us. We're already getting some interest for the movie rights."
"You own the publishing company?" asked Leia.
"Stark Industries is the parent company, but I am involved in editorial decisions so basically, yes." She noticed someone she knew and nodded towards him as he also saw her. "You'll have to excuse me while I pay my respects to this man. I have to play nice with him." She stepped a few feet away then looked back. "We'll talk more. I'm glad to see you here, Bucky."
"How do you know her?" asked Leia, looking up at her date.
"Well, she was part of the force fighting Thanos during the Battle of Earth," said Bucky. "She also helped provide evidence of my treatment under HYDRA, sending the decrypted files that proved it was torture to my lawyer. She's been supportive ever since."
"That was nice of her." Leia squeezed his hand. "I'm glad she came to say hi."
After Pepper's acknowledgment of Bucky, they noticed more people smiling at them, and several others stopped to make small talk. It was obvious that if the CEO of Stark Industries was okay with his presence, they could be as well. Shortly after the host appeared on the dais and welcomed everyone to the formal part of the event. He introduced the six authors in attendance, sharing a brief summary of their writing careers after inviting them up to the stage. Then he called Pepper up to say a few words.
Bucky watched from the back of the room, his glass in hand, when his attention was taken by another man at the back of the room, watching the proceedings. There was something off about him, in a non-specific way; there wasn't one particular thing that bothered him about the man. He attributed the feeling to his years as the Asset, noticing the small details as part of a bigger picture. While the man took pictures with his cell phone of the authors as they talked about their current books, Bucky watched him closely, as it seemed that the man took more photos of Leia than anyone else. Then Bucky's attention was drawn back to the podium where the host announced that the authors would be signing copies of their books for the attendees, at tables set up around the venue. Closing his remarks, the host thanked everyone for attending on such a wintry night, exhorting them to get home safely.
Leia looked for him from the stage, giving him a little shrug that he interpreted as her regret for keeping him there a bit longer. He shrugged back, with what he hoped was a supportive smile as she followed one of the publisher's assistants to a table at the edge of the large space. Joined by Pepper, they both watched as Leia began signing her books, engaging with the people that lined up at her table.
"She's lovely," said Pepper. "You must have just met because she only moved here about 10 days ago."
"Wednesday," he replied. "She lives several blocks from me, and we both ended up in the same coffee shop at the same time. We just clicked. This is our second date."
"What are you up to these days?"
"I finally got my settlement for back pay and the PoW treatment," he replied. "Trying to decide whether to put some of it towards buying a house or investing it. I might go to school and take some courses. Have to do something now that it looks like the Avengers aren't starting up anytime soon."
He didn't tell her about the numerous offers to become a hit man, offers that made him wonder if the world would ever see him as someone other than the Winter Soldier. It wasn't a career he was interested in returning to.
"Yeah." She shook her head, that single word said in a way that was not just sad but disappointed. "I had to sell the tower. It was always Tony's project and the constant upkeep just on the security systems alone without him in charge was more than what I was capable of. Don't even talk to me about the taxes."
"I'm sorry. That must have been difficult."
"It was." She looked up at him. "Maybe once the election is over you and Sam can head up a revamped version of the Avengers with the new administration. You showed them that they're still needed."
He shrugged, knowing Sam had been lobbying extensively for that, but had basically been ignored in official circles. Then he frowned. The man who had been taking pictures was in Leia's lineup, seeming a little too intense for his liking. Pepper looked at where Bucky's attention was focused.
"Problem?"
"He was back here taking pictures of all the authors, but mostly Leia." He shook his head. "The way he was focused on her set off some warning bells in my head."
Pepper took her phone out, took a picture of the man, and sent it in a text message to someone. Within moments she got an answer.
"He's not an invited guest," she said. "Bucky, go stand behind Leia, while I get security over to deal with him. I'll explain later."
With a nod, he headed over to the table, standing behind Leia. She looked back and smiled at him, receiving one in return. As she spoke to each person, and made out the dedication to them, even posing for selfies with some of them, he tried to keep his face neutral, so that the man, who was now next in line, didn't get spooked. Bucky was aware of several security people approaching from the perimeter of the room, but they still had to wade their way through the people that were standing around.
"Hi, who should I make this out to?" asked Leia of the man, unaware of the drama that was unfolding.
"Edward," he said, leaning in close. "Would you please sign it with your real name?"
She frowned. "Excuse me?"
"Please sign it as Leia Dunn, if you wouldn't mind."
Bucky placed his hand on the book, closing it, then giving his most intense look at the man. "The author's name is Adriana Weller."
"Oh, I know," smiled the man, his eyes seeming too bright and too assured. "But it's not her real name. Leia, don't you remember me?"
Her face dropped and she stood up, placing Bucky between her and Edward. The man sighed and reached into his jacket inside pocket, triggering Bucky into grasping his hand.
"I'm just getting my phone out," said Edward peevishly. "I only want to prove that Leia and I are old friends. Surely, she can sign a book in her own name for a friend."
Happy Hogan was the first security agent to get to the table and he looked to Bucky, who shook his head minutely. Let this play out. The two men watched Edward closely as he unlocked his phone revealing a wallpaper screen of him posing with Leia. He opened his photo gallery to show the photo in its entirety. With his left hand, Bucky took it and showed it to her.
"That's in my hometown," she said, in a low voice. "I self published the book originally and would sell it at farmer's markets and such. He must have bought a copy there. I don't remember him."
Bucky handed it back. So far, the man hadn't done anything illegal, other than crash a private party. As he contemplated what to say to the man, the host arrived with Pepper and two other security guards.
"Sir, this is a private party, and you were not invited. I insist that you leave."
"I just want her to sign it in her real name," frowned Edward. "What's wrong with signing a book for a fan from home?"
"Because I have a private life." Leia was beside Bucky now, the fear mixed with anger clear in her voice. "Do you know what kind of letters I've received from so-called fans? How do I know you're not a stalker?"
Edward looked shocked. "No! I wouldn't do that. I love your writing. You shouldn't have to hide behind a false name. Are they forcing you to do this? Is this because of your father?"
Leia stumbled backwards as if she had been hit. What did this man know?
"Alright, I've heard enough," said Bucky. He removed the glove from his left hand, placing it in Edward's view. "You've been asked nicely to leave, now I'm telling you. Ms. Weller writes under that name for a good reason. You crashed this event and it's within the publisher's rights to throw you out and charge you with trespassing. Leave now or I'll make you leave."
The other man kept his dignity, although he was unhappy at being singled out. With a slight grimace, he put his phone back into his jacket and left with the two security guards, looking back at her only once. Bucky touched Leia's cheek, gazing intently at her.
"Are you alright? Do you want to call it a night?"
"I'm fine, just a little shaken," she replied, then looked at the lineup of people still waiting. "I'll sign for them then we can go, okay?"
While Pepper and the others left, he pushed her chair in when she sat back down in it, then stayed behind her until she finished signing for the last person. It was obvious there was something else going on, something she hadn't revealed to him, but he wasn't about to call her out on it. Her fear of Edward was real, and he didn't want to add to that.
"Call the driver," suggested Bucky, as Leia stood up. "We'll say our goodbyes, get your coat and go home, okay?"
She nodded, taking out the card that was given to her. While she was making the call, Pepper and Happy came back over, standing just out of earshot from Leia.
"I'm taking her home," said Bucky. "She's shaken up a little."
"It's probably for the better," said Pepper, then she glanced at Happy. "She obviously hasn't told you everything, but we did have someone watching her, making sure no one bothered her. He recognized you and checked with me about whether to intervene. I vouched for you, Bucky; both of us did."
"Seriously? You had me under surveillance, as well. Did she know about any of it?"
Happy shook his head. "We didn't want to interfere in her private life but some of the letters were disturbing and we wanted her to be safe. Look, you're a good operative, probably the best. We want you to be her personal bodyguard."
A short bitter laugh was Bucky's reply. "I'm in a relationship with her; at least the beginning of one. You expect me just to turn it off and make her my job?" Aware that Leia finished her phone call, he turned away from Happy and Pepper. "Is he on his way?"
"Yeah." She looked at Pepper. "I have to go. It was nice to meet you."
"The pleasure was mine," smiled the older woman. "We'll talk soon." She looked at Bucky. "Think about it."
No response came from him as he placed his hand on Leia's lower back and guided her to the coat check. Helping her on with the red coat, he made sure she was all buttoned up before they went to the doors and waited the few minutes for their driver. When the car pulled up the driver got out and opened the back door for them. Bucky let Leia in first, then walked around to the back of the vehicle and gestured to the man, speaking to him in a low voice.
"Are you the man who's been watching over her?"
He didn't answer at first then nodded. "One of them. I recognized you at the coffee shop and thought you had been hired but realized quickly that it was something else. When I checked, Mr. Hogan vouched for you as trustworthy." Bucky's demeanour alerted him. "Did something happen?"
Bucky nodded. "A fan who knew where she was from, demanded she sign his book with her real name. It upset her. They want me to be her personal bodyguard, but we're involved."
"It happens," he shrugged. "Quite frankly, I think having you on the team would be a benefit. Your skills are miles above the three of us on this assignment and we're all former agency people." He stuck his hand out. "I'm Greg Burnham. Think about it, Sergeant Barnes."
Bucky shook his hand, then got into the back seat while Burnham took the wheel. Smiling warmly at Leia, Bucky took his right glove off and put his hand over hers, squeezing it.
"We'll talk when we get back to your place, okay?"
She nodded her head slightly and interlaced her fingers in his, seeking comfort from him. Burnham said nothing on the drive, but his frequent glances at Bucky during the drive made him consider the assignment. When Burnham opened Bucky's door, he palmed one of his cards into his gloved hand, then went to open Leia's door. Despite not being part of her official detail, Bucky couldn't help but scan the surroundings, using his superior vision and auditory senses to make note of anyone in the area. With a nod to Burnham, he took Leia's hand and went into the high rise while the other man maintained a presence on the street. Once past the security doors, they waited quietly for the elevator, then got on, alone in the car.
"I'm sorry," she said, looking up at the floor indicator.
"For what?" he asked, turning to her.
"For not saying anything about the letters. Everything else is the truth about writing and coming here. It just sped up the timeline of when I came to New York. Some of the letters were mailed from where I used to live, making the authorities concerned that he was a local. Moving here was supposed to help keep him from following me." Her lips began to tremble. "Shit, I hate feeling this way."
Pulling her into his arms, Bucky held her, kissing her head and just keeping her close. When the doors opened on her floor, he stepped out first, taking in the scene, then offered her his hand. Once inside the apartment, he helped her off with her coat, hanging it up in the closet. Then he took her by the hand to the couch, sitting down with her. The emotions she held in for much of the evening erupted at that point and he pulled her onto his lap, holding her while she cried. Eventually, her sobs lessened, and she stayed curled up in Bucky's arms, feeling wrung out. He tilted her head up towards him, kissing her on the forehead, then used his thumb to clean the tears from her face.
"Better?" he asked. She nodded. "You were quite afraid of the man at the book signing, weren't you? Especially when he mentioned your father."
"Yeah," she stammered a little. "The first letters I got were addressed to my former address in my real name. It was after I self-published and sent it to the publisher but before they accepted it. The letters were disturbing but not really scary or violent. When the publisher accepted it and announced the acquisition, the letters began to get darker in tone as he detailed his plans for me. The bit about my father isn't well known. Let's just say he wasn't a good man." She seemed reluctant to expand on that. "When I finally told the authorities about the letters, they thought it best that I move here sooner rather than later, and the publisher agreed. We decided I should have a pen name and changed the title. They think I don't know about the surveillance team, but I figured they wouldn't let me go out on my own without someone watching over me. I tried to roll with it, not let it rule my life, but I guess what happened tonight was a reminder that I'm still vulnerable. I'm glad you were there. With you, I feel safe."
"They asked me to be your personal bodyguard, with you at all times," he said, wanting to be honest with her. "It wasn't what I was expecting when we left here tonight." An audible breath escaped from his lips as he gave her the next bit. "It's not recommended for us to be involved if I agree."
Her disappointment was evident by how she slumped into him. She sniffed, then nodded her head.
"I understand," she conceded. "If being involved interferes with keeping me safe, then it's better that we're not attached to each other."
She already trusted his word about what was best for the situation. He wanted to kiss her so much just for that. But it wasn't that easy. Even though he knew he should handle this by the book, what he said next surprised even himself.
"I don't necessarily agree with that. It's not recommended but relationships do happen between a bodyguard and the person they protect. We're already involved. Even though it's still brand new for both of us, it's not something I want to give up. If I agree to this, you have to promise me that you'll do what I say without hesitation. No matter what, even if it puts me in danger, you must do as I ask. Do you understand?" She nodded. "Promise?"
"I promise to do whatever you tell me, even if it puts you in danger."
"Okay. I'll agree to be your personal bodyguard, which means I'm moving in," said Bucky. "I can sleep on the couch if you're not comfortable ...."
Her mouth was on his, kissing him fiercely. He responded just as strongly, trapping her body with his arms as if he were absorbing her body into his own. When the kiss ended, they were both breathing heavily, their eyes intent on each other's lips. Raising her hand to his cheek, Leia brushed her lips against his, then took in a short, sharp breath as he easily rose with her in his arms. Undoing his tie and shirt along the way, she pressed her hand onto his chest, then placed open mouthed kisses along his neck and collar bone. By the time they got to the bedroom, every thought of taking their time and gently exploring each other was lost to the powerful urge to possess each other physically. Discarded clothing littered the floor, then Bucky went to his bag, searching for one of the condoms he had packed; the only interruption to their primal urges. When he finally thrust into Leia, they both released a groan of pleasure, before resuming the pursuit of their desires.
Since the Flag Smashers were dealt with, Bucky had several intimate encounters with different women. None were viewed as anything more than a casual encounter. They were like the proverbial ships in the night, meeting briefly, joining their bodies for a physical release, then a brief goodbye, never to see each other again. It suited him as he fell back into his old ways of self-isolation, unwilling to open himself up emotionally. But meeting Leia had sparked something in him, something deep and intense. Ever since that moment when he saw her to her door after their first date, he didn't want to be anywhere else but with her. That feeling intensified exponentially as their physical union approached the moment of ecstasy, something they both craved.
"Look at me," he commanded, wanting to see the moment she came reflected in her eyes. "Baby, look at me when you come."
"Bucky. Oh, God!"
Even in the dark, her enlarged pupils seemed luminous to him, deep pools filled with the essence of everything he wanted. Her bliss encompassed her entire body, bringing him to the edge of ecstasy, then pushing him into an abyss of total rapture as he surrendered to his release. It was unlike anything he had ever experienced before with anyone. Mindful enough to deal with the condom quickly, he returned from the bathroom with a glass of water, offering it to Leia and supporting her as she drank greedily to slake the thirst she felt after their exertions. Back under the sheets with her, their bodies entwined in a tight embrace, he could feel the slow recovery of her pounding heart through her chest as it pressed against his side. Her hand kneaded into his chest and abdomen, like a cat staking its claim on its property. As brief as their acquaintance was, he knew without a doubt that he was hers, as much as she was his.
It still wasn't the best idea for them to be romantically involved while he was responsible for her safety, but he was where he belonged, and where he wanted to be. That was the moment he truly accepted what was asked of him, to protect Leia Dunn with everything he was capable of, while giving her all of himself emotionally.
I write mainly MCU Bucky Barnes because of his great character arc and Sebastian Stan’s representation of that character. Other MCU characters may appear in my works, occasionally in equal roles. If you are looking for very dark or evil Bucky themes you won’t find them in my works. There will be some Bucky AU fics.
OFCs in my stories are often named with physical descriptions. It doesn’t mean I try to exclude anyone. It just means I’m old school and learned to write in 1st person or 3rd person POV with named and described characters. I do not use Y/N.
Most stories are rated PG 13. If you are a minor, please DO NOT INTERACT with stories marked as 18+. There is a reason they are marked. Please respect that. If you follow me and do not have an age indicated in your bio, you will be blocked.
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Wattpad is my main platform, followed by AO3 and some things on FanFiction.net; username for all of them is sjsmith56. All MCU characters are the property of Marvel / Disney, as are portions of the movie plots reused in my stories. I claim ownership of all original characters and plot lines. Please do not copy and paste or translate my works for posting in other platforms.
One Shots
Short Fiction / Multi-part Fiction
Novels / Collections
‘Tis the Season compilation of winter/ Christmas themed Bucky Barnes fics
Summary: After confirming Audrey’s parentage Bucky ends up at her place, finally having an intimate moment with her. Pulled away by another demand on his time, another surprise is revealed.
Length: 4.4 K
Characters: Nick Fury, Bucky, Clint, Audrey, Steve.
Warning: Minors DNI. Contains mild sexual content which may be unsuitable for readers under the age of 18. Cursing.
Author notes: I hope the twists and turns haven’t made things too complex. Things are going to get a lot darker in the next part.
<<Part 4
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing.
When Bucky showed up at Nick Fury's apartment early the next morning the man was not happy. After complaining that he only slept a couple of hours his next concern was that Bucky had been followed.
"Probably," was the younger man's answer which pissed Fury off even more. "But I have something to ask you and it couldn't wait. It's also not a conversation to have in public or around Audrey."
"Fuck," muttered the older man, then stepped aside. "Come in." He headed to the kitchen. "Coffee?"
"Please," replied Bucky. He sat at the counter. "This place is secure, right? You scan it for bugs on a regular basis?"
The top cop turned his head and glared at the mob boss as he poured the coffee, spilling some on the counter.
"Motherfucker," he swore, grabbing the dish cloth and wiping it up. Placing the mug in front of Bucky he fixed his gaze on him. "Yeah, it's swept on a regular basis. Why?"
"Is Audrey the niece of Alexander Pierce?"
Fury was mid-sip and began to cough. He turned away, muttering, then looked back at Bucky.
"Why are you asking me?"
"Because one of Fisk's men told me that Pierce's sister married a cop and had to go into witness protection. Audrey is supposed to be their only child. Is it true?"
The older man was quiet for some time then nodded. "Yeah, it's true. She doesn't know. Anna Pierce was supposed to marry Wilson Fisk to cement the relationship between him and Pierce just after he became King. She didn't want anything to do with it and came to us for help. She fell in love with the officer assigned to protect her and they got married then went straight into witness protection. It took some time for Pierce to find them, and he put out a hit on the officer, but his sister was killed as collateral damage." That sounds familiar. "We let it slip that Audrey was killed as well. She was 2 years old and was adopted by another cop and his wife. I became her godfather then. If Fisk knows about her, then so does Pierce, right?"
"Apparently Terrence Lawton found out her true identity," explained Bucky. "He was going to blackmail Audrey, but you scared him right into Pierce's offices. He told him who Audrey is, expecting a big finders fee." The cop frowned, not liking that. "Lawton's likely dead, by the way; his body somewhere in the East River." Bucky sipped his coffee and watched Fury carefully. "All this time you were worried about her being with me and she's in more danger with Pierce and Fisk knowing who she is."
"You're sure of your source?" asked Fury, frowning.
"Let's just say that he claimed to be a low-level member of Fisk's gang. Yet he knows this? I don't trust him but for him to even know that Pierce's sister married a cop shows that he knows something. He offered to be an informant for me, but I think he said that in desperation."
Fury scoffed at that. "More likely he'll go running to Fisk to say you bought his story. What are you doing about it?" Bucky gave him an incredulous look. "I'm not asking as a cop. I'm asking as Audrey's godfather."
The younger man played it cool for several minutes, sipping his coffee then ran his hand through his hair. If anyone found out he was telling Fury anything it could mean being targeted by everyone, possibly even some of his own men.
"Let it play out. This guy claims that Fisk is supposed to take me, Stark and Zemo out, in order to prove his worth as successor to Pierce. He becomes King, with Rumlow as his successor, but no more King's Men, meaning all the power is concentrated in his hands."
"Jesus Christ," muttered Fury. "Fisk is a psychopath. They want that? No one replaces you and the other King's Men other than Rumlow?"
"No one. Full out war; let it all burn. He plans to go after any unaffiliated gangs, as well as any law enforcement that he can, putting you in the crosshairs as well. If he blames you for Audrey's mother's death, that's a likely scenario."
Fury was stunned into silence for some time. With the man's brow furrowed as he paced back and forth in the kitchen, Bucky could see he was thinking of all the possibilities that could arise from Fisk taking over as King. It would be carnage, not just for the gangs and law enforcement but for the average person as Fisk wouldn't hesitate to flex his muscles everywhere. He stopped suddenly and looked guardedly at the younger man.
"I wonder if Audrey is the trophy," said Fury. "Make no mistake, Fisk seeks power and if he takes all of you out, then he'll get it. But if he's doing it with Pierce's blessing then he needs something that belongs to the current King to parade around as his reward. Since Pierce's daughter married Rumlow that leaves Audrey. She's young, beautiful, smart, and he would take great pleasure in breaking her privately and publicly. Not to mention having her bear his child to be his successor instead of Rumlow. Once he's King, Fisk could easily take out Pierce and Rumlow."
Both men breathed out audibly at that thought. It was definitely a bonding moment of sorts; just not one that Bucky wanted to repeat. He finished his coffee and stood up.
"There's just one thing about that," said Bucky, to Fury's inquisitive look. "The timeline. I'm pretty sure Fisk has been setting this up for some time, starting with the attempted hit on me, well over a year ago. If Audrey was dangled as a reward, they had to know about her for just as long. This guy of Fisk's said a honey trap was set up and someone talked. You probably have a leak at your end; someone let them know who she is."
"You might be right," agreed Fury. "The list of people who know her real identity is very short. You have a guy who checks on people for you?" Bucky nodded. "Let me provide you some names and have him check on them. If I try to do it, then they can be tipped off."
This was getting more complicated by the moment. But if Fury already had candidates in mind who knew about Audrey, they needed to uncover them now. Steve already knew Bucky was talking to Fury, he would follow up on the names.
"Okay. I'm gathering some more information first before I decide on my next move. I still think I can protect Audrey better than you as it's pretty certain that both Fisk and Pierce have people on the inside. The guy who told me infiltrated a lower-level position in that warehouse that went up in flames. We're going to be checking everyone's background on my end to find any others and deal with them." He breathed out audibly. "I'm telling you that as Audrey's boyfriend and not one of the King's Men."
Fury smirked grimly but said nothing until he got to the door to let Bucky out.
"Is it true that you were to be Pierce's successor?" Bucky nodded. "Why aren't you?"
The younger man looked away then decided to come clean. Something told him he could trust this man who meant so much to Audrey.
"Did you ever meet my dad?" Fury nodded this time. "You know that despite his standing, he was a man of his word, and he did draw a line in the sand over the extent of his activities. If he told you something in confidence it was the absolute truth. He told me on his deathbed never to trust Pierce. Said there was always a price to pay if I accepted a gift from him, any gift. In Pierce's view giving me his daughter was a carrot to convince me to become his successor. He said I could do any number of disgusting things to her if she was my wife, and she would let me because she liked the perks that came with her position. To her, it was an acceptable price to pay. He said that about his own daughter." He frowned and shook his head in disgust. "Being King would come with similar expectations and I'm not that guy. I have a soul, and I want to keep it, as fucked up as it is. Audrey makes me feel human and I like that, a lot. I could walk away from all of it tomorrow and spend a lifetime in witness protection with her, with no regrets." He looked Fury in the eyes. "Does that answer your question?"
The older man breathed out, placing his hand on Bucky's shoulder, squeezing it.
"Yeah. Watch your back, Barnes. Trust your instincts. You would have made a good cop."
Bucky gave out a short humourless laugh, then left the man standing in the doorway of his apartment while he took the stairs. Instead of going out the main door of the building he took a back exit so he could observe the neighbourhood from a different angle. Satisfied that no one was watching for him, he texted Steve, who was waiting in the car and drove quickly around to the door where Bucky was.
"That took a while," said his lieutenant. "So? What's the story?"
"She's Pierce's niece but she doesn't know it. Her mother was promised to Fisk but wanted nothing to do with him, asked the police for protection and fell in love with the officer assigned to protect her. They married and went into witness protection. Pierce put a hit on the cop, but it went wrong and both were killed. Sound familiar?" Steve frowned at the cynicism in Bucky's voice. "Witness protection said Audrey was also killed and Fury covered up her true identity. She was adopted by another couple with him as her godfather. He thinks that Fisk wants her as his reward. I'm thinking Fisk is the one who found out her real identity with that honey trap and started this whole shitstorm." He looked ahead. "Pull up so I can call Zemo."
Pulling out his burner phone, he called, let it ring three times then waited before dialling again. When it rang twice before it was answered he and Steve looked guardedly at each other. Zemo never let it ring more than once on the callback.
"Barnes," said the lightly accented voice of the other King's Men. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your call?"
They looked at each other again. Zemo always addressed him as James and was never one for false pleasantries. He always dove right into the business at hand. Steve opened his phone and texted something but didn't send it.
He's not alone.
Bucky nodded, realizing that someone else was probably listening in. "I assume you heard about the fire at my warehouse last night. I was wondering if you had any idea who was behind it?"
"No, no idea at all. Perhaps a disgruntled employee?"
Bucky lied in his response. "I don't think so. You know that my guys are quite satisfied with their work. It was my legal business, and those guys are paid well."
"Perhaps one of them had an obligation to pay off a debt. You can never be too careful these days, Barnes. Is there anything else?"
"No," replied Bucky, about to hang up. "Wait, did you ever find that missing ring? I think you should keep better tabs on it."
There was silence for some time. "Yes, I did, and I have it with me right now. Thank you for asking about it. Perhaps you should come over later and look at it to give me your opinion on whether to keep it or throw it out. Goodbye."
Bucky hung up. Zemo was cool headed under pressure; there was no doubt about that.
"Rollins was there," he said to Steve. "That sounded like an invitation to an execution." He ran his hands through his hair. "This is coming to a head quickly, isn't it?"
"Yeah." Steve looked out the other window, then back at Bucky. "You know that I have your back, right? Me and Sam. We're with you all the way on this."
"Even if I want out?" It went very quiet inside the car. Bucky kept looking forward for several moments before facing his friend. "I have to consider the end game, Steve. If I'm going up against Pierce and Fisk, most people are going to think I want to be King. You know that I don't want that."
"I know, but to leave it all behind? Are you sure?"
"Honestly, yes. I would leave it all for her. Don't know if that's possible but I'm tired of it all. You must think I'm weak to be saying this."
"No, not at all." Steve stroked his bearded chin. "I think you've been reconsidering your line of work for a long time. Out on your own terms is better than dead. What about Sam and me? Would you be disappointed if we stayed in; that is, if we succeed in taking out Pierce and Fisk? That is the plan, isn't it? If they're coming for you, then you have to take them out first. If you want out, they have to be gone. I can't see Stark or Zemo forcing you to stay as long as you keep your mouth shut."
Bucky grinned grimly. Trust Steve to lay it all on the line. It's one of the reasons they worked so well together and trusted each other. There were no secrets between the two men; nothing was off-limits.
"I think you would be a good successor to me; so would Sam. Really, you two are the reasons I'm still in it. I trust you both with my life and I hope you would both trust me with the same."
Steve grasped Bucky's shoulder, squeezing it. "Til the end of the line. Always." He sighed and looked forward again. "Since you can't see Zemo right now, where do you want to go?"
"Drop me off at Audrey's," said Bucky. His phone buzzed and he looked at a text message from Fury. "I need you to check on some names for me. Fury said a few knew who Audrey is but were sworn to secrecy. We think one of them told Fisk."
The other man's eyebrows arched in surprise at this assignment. They were helping a cop now?
"So, I'm looking for confirmation of the honey trap?" Bucky nodded. "Anything else?"
"Evidence of anyone with debts owed to the wrong people, being threatened, or blackmailed. We need to find out how Audrey's identity was leaked and it's gotta be done quickly. Money is no object."
"Okay, I'll get on it after I drop you off. What about Stark? We're holding off on Walker for now?"
"I'll call Stark right now. Keep Walker on ice until we find out what his game is. Thor and Loki will be ready to go if we say the word."
After speaking with Stark and telling him everything except what had been learned about Audrey, Bucky was driven to her place. Before he got out of the car, he looked back at Steve again.
"Keep the information about her on the down low. Tell those who were there with Walker not to share it."
Inside the brownstone he slowed up before the second-floor apartment shared by Clint Barton and Phil Coulson, the door opening before he got to it. Standing in the doorway, Barton stared at him, as if he was expected.
"I'm going to try to convince her to come to my place," said Bucky. "She's at risk and I don't think she's safe here. No offence to your abilities."
"None taken," said Barton. He looked at Coulson who stood behind him in the hallway, nodded and the other man receded back into the apartment. "We haven't been entirely truthful with you." Stepping closer, he looked Bucky in the eye. "We work for Fury. He just called me and told me about your visit. Audrey's always been our assignment, mine, and Phil's. If her identity is known, then she's in danger. If you can convince her to go with you, then we go, too."
"Fuck," muttered Bucky. "You're cops."
"We were, until we both fucked up our lives. Keeping watch on her was a chance for redemption. We alerted Fury to Lawton setting his sights on her but arresting him obviously wasn't enough if he went running to Pierce after he made bail."
"Do I even want to know how my guy didn't find out the truth about you?"
Barton smirked. "Your guy wouldn't have been able to break our back story. We've both been undercover for years, following Audrey without her noticing us until she came here. Someday, I'll tell you about it over a drink but for now, will you accept my word that we're not here to bust you or your guys? Audrey's safety is our only assignment."
"I guess I don't have much choice, do I?" He was exasperated. Wait until Steve found out. "Fine. I swear if you breathe a word of my business to anyone in law enforcement, I'll find you and send you to the bottom of the East River."
A slight grin appeared on Barton's face. "Fair enough but you'll have to find us first, and we're both good at covering our tracks."
"Then how did you get into trouble?"
"We trusted the wrong person once. We'd be doing 10 to Life if Fury hadn't stepped in on our behalf. That won't happen again."
He extended his hand to Bucky, who reluctantly shook it, sealing their agreement. How Barton knew that he would honour a handshake deal was a question to be answered another day. Right now, he had to go upstairs and convince Audrey to move in with him. That wasn't going to be easy. Heading up to her floor, he knocked gently on her door. She opened it, wearing jeans and a T-shirt, but looking like a million dollars to Bucky. Before he tried to convince her to go with him, there was something else he wanted first.
"Long night for you," she said, stepping aside so he could come in. "Tell me you had a chance to rest."
"No rest for the wicked," he answered, watching as she closed and locked the door. They faced each other in the entryway. "I wanted to be here, instead."
"Have you eaten?" He shook his head. "Come on, I'll make you something."
As she moved to go past him, he took her hand and pulled her back, caging her against the wall. His eyes raked over her body, before settling on her face. His need for her was clear, smouldering under his heated gaze.
"Food can wait. I want you."
He brushed his fingers along her jaw, then cradled her head, capturing her lips with his. Hungry for her, he pressed against her, grinding his hips, as his other hand sought out the soft mound of her breast. Any doubts that Audrey didn't want him just as much were gone by the way her own hands sought out contact with him. Tugging his shirt up, she ran her hands from his chest around to his back, grasping and kneading his firm physique. Briefly, Bucky stopped then lifted her up so she could wrap her legs around him, carrying her to the bedroom. Placing one knee on the bed, he lowered her, then pulled his shirt off. Gently, he touched the hem of her T-shirt and smiled when she raised herself to take it off, revealing a lacy black bra.
"Is this ...?"
"Yeah, it is," she murmured. "Do you like it?"
He ran his index finger under the upper edge of the trim then cupped her breast again as his breathing changed, becoming more intense.
"I like it very much."
The heated kiss they shared now consumed them both. The bra came off, dropped to the floor, as Bucky lowered his full weight onto Audrey. Burning with the desire that had been building for weeks, they writhed against each other, pausing only to remove their remaining clothes and find a condom. With the coupling of their bodies, accompanied by sighs of their mutual pleasure, Bucky slowed down the frenzied pace, intent on savouring the experience. With wet open-mouthed kisses along Audrey's shoulder and neck, he thrust in at a slower pace, building to the moment they both craved. Feeling her caresses along his back, from the shoulders all the way down to the curves of his ass, he gazed intently into her eyes.
"You're so beautiful," he whispered. "Look at you; so perfect."
Lost in the moment, she answered by raising herself to him, searching for that elusive moment when the coil within her was released. Recognizing her need to come, Bucky increased his pace dramatically, bringing her to the brink. As her cries became louder and more intense, he found his own moment imminent and withheld his climax wanting to see her satisfied first. When she surrendered to her body, releasing several cries of ecstasy, he gave into his own needs, unleashing himself from all of his constraints. In the blur of his passion, he was aware of only one thing, the feeling of communion with this woman he worshipped. Burying his face into her neck he slowly regained his breath, while taking in the scent and taste of her skin, committing everything about this moment to the place where he kept his most precious memories and feelings.
"Don't pull out yet," murmured Audrey. "Stay like this."
Raising his head so he could gaze upon her, Bucky smiled at the flushed appearance of her skin, and the tousled hair that he smoothed back with one hand. A small kiss led to a deeper languid one, that they both drew out as they savoured the sensual touch of their lips and tongues. With a whispered apology, it became necessary for Bucky to remove the condom, and he returned quickly from disposing of it, covering them both with the bed sheet, noticing the duvet had somehow been relegated to the floor. With the late-morning sun peeking through the slats of the blinds in Audrey's bedroom, they gazed at each other, gently touching and kissing, until he heard the sound of a text message on his phone. At first, he ignored it then it sounded again, and Audrey smiled.
"Take it," she said. "I'm sure you have much to do after last night's events. I'll go freshen up a little."
She left for the bathroom, and he stepped out to where he left his phone, seeing Steve had contacted him. Calling him back he leaned against the kitchen counter while he waited for his friend to answer. It only took one ring.
"Joaquin is coming to get you," said Steve, urgently. "We have a situation at the Red Hook warehouse."
"What now?"
"I'd rather not say over the phone. Just get here as soon as possible."
He hung up abruptly, leaving Bucky to look at his phone with frustration. All sorts of complications were popping up. If Steve didn't feel comfortable saying anything over the phone it could mean someone was listening, probably someone who was trying to start a war. Returning to the bedroom he started dressing, then heard Audrey come out of the bathroom.
"You have to go," she stated, the disappointment clear in her voice.
"Yeah, something's going on, but Steve wouldn't say." He turned to her as he pulled up his pants. She was in a silk robe that hugged her in all the right places. It took a lot of willpower not to slip it off her shoulders and resume what they started earlier. "I really wanted to stay here today. There was something important I needed to talk to you about." He approached her, placing his hands on her waist. "You're definitely at risk. I want you to move in with me as I have better security measures in place than what you have here."
"You already have Clint and Phil watching out for me," she answered calmly.
"Yeah, but it won't be enough."
She studied his face, noticing the worry line between his eyebrows, and the look of a man who hadn't slept for over a day. Whatever was going on with Bucky's business had him concerned about her safety. As independent as Audrey was, she also knew when it was time to take precautions.
"I have a meeting with a new client later this afternoon," she said. "After I'm done, I'll get them to bring me to your place."
"Thank you." Cupping her face, he kissed her tenderly on the lips. "I'll feel better about your security once you're there."
"I know you've been trying to convince me for some time but both you and Uncle Nick have been jumpy the past week. That fire last night has something to do with what's going on, doesn't it?" He smiled grimly at her, and she caressed his face. "I get it. It's better that I don't know. Be careful, okay?"
"I always am."
He put his shirt on, buttoning it up then tucking it inside his pants. Slipping his wallet and cell phone into his pockets, he gazed at her longingly, then kissed her, resting his forehead against hers for several moments.
"Trust no one except for my men, Clint, Phil, and your godfather. When I get back, I'll tell you everything. I promise."
She nodded, then walked with him to the door. Bucky went down the stairs, putting his jacket on as he did, then looked back from the bottom of the landing, taking one last look at her, before he knocked on Clint's door and told him the plan. As he stepped outside, he noticed that the earlier sun was obscured by clouds that seemed to be building into a storm. It was a fitting metaphor for what he felt was coming. A car pulled up with Joaquin at the wheel and he slipped into the passenger seat. The younger man nodded grimly at him, then pressed on the pedal. It was going to be a long day and night.
Summary: A late medieval / early Renaissance AU told in six parts. Lord Barnes comes to formally claim the hand of the woman he has been betrothed to since her birth. Other suitors object to his claim setting off a series of events.
Characters: Named OFC (beautiful, tall and red-haired), Ser Anthony Stark, Lady Stark, Lord James Buchanan Barnes, The Duke of Long Isle Prince Steven Rogers, Ser Samuel Wilson, Lord Alexander Pierce, Ser Brock Rumlow, John Walker, Father Bruce, Garrison Commander Barton, Riley, Lady Natasha, Ser Scott Lang.
Warnings: Minors DNI - contains sexual content not suitable for readers under the age of 18, OFC is a virgin, age gap (OFC is 21, Lord Barnes is 32), arranged marriage (but she is given a choice to go through with it), threat of forced marriage, violence, misogyny, kidnapping, attack against a church full of parishioners.
Author notes: This is an alternate universe set during the late 15th century. America is a separate kingdom located closer to Europe than it is now. There will be reference to Arthurian legend with changes to it.
Part 1 - Negotiations
Part 2 - Secret Wedding
Part 3 - The Abduction
Part 4 - Captive
Part 5 - Escape
Part 6 - Justice
Short Fiction Masterlist
As with all of my works, the characters originally created by Marvel are the intellectual property of Marvel / Disney. This original work of fiction is derived from those characters who are shown in a different manner than their original portrayals. The plot and original characters are the creation and property of the author, who claims all rights of ownership. Please do not copy, paste, or translate for posting on any other platform. This work will be cross posted on the author’s Wattpad and AO3 account.
