#mafia!bucky

[reigningqueenofwords]

Got It

Pairing: Eventual Bucky/Reader, Yelena/Kate Word count: 1,120 Summary: You're kidnapped and Bucky is livid. A/N: Sorry this is late this week. Days have been feeling all over lately lol

Part 5 of His Angel

Yelena and Kate exchanged numbers with you and Kat before saying goodbye that night. You loved making new friends and hoped the four of you got to hang out again soon. “You know, this might be the alcohol talking, but maybe your stalker isn’t so bad.” Kat giggled, completely unaware you were now under watch of a new stalker. One who was far more dangerous to you. The two of you were on the subway, so the feeling of being watched was normal for you there. It was something you got used to pretty quickly after moving to the city.

“I totally think that’s the alcohol talking.” You teased her back. 

“Either way, I wish I could send him a thank you card. Tonight was so much fun!” She felt refreshed and light, which would make going to work the next afternoon that much less stressful. “And it’s really good to see you not stress over money.” Kat loved you like a sister and hated when you seemed to be run down and worried.

That was nice, you had to admit. “True. Let’s just enjoy it until it lasts.” You had been putting money aside from your actual paycheck just in case. The money from what he’d given you to start with had been an excellent start. 

A few weeks later you came home to see a pretty red head about to knock on your door. “Can I help you?” Did B send a person this time?! His gifts had been getting more extravagant. He’d bought a new couch for your apartment, upgraded the television, sent both you and Kat massive flower arrangements because you’d both had a tough week at work, and you had no idea there was a necklace with your favorite gem on your bed waiting for you. 

She turned to smile at you. “Hi, I’m Natasha.” She held out her hand for you to shake. You shook it, wondering if maybe she had the wrong apartment? “We’re here for you.” 

You tensed up. “What?” She said ‘we’re’...meaning she wasn’t alone. You started to turn a moment before a strong arm wrapped around your waist and a rag was placed over your nose and mouth. As you fought, your eyes never left Natasha’s. Her facial expression was completely unreadable. Even as your purse dropped to the hall floor, it never changed.

Once you were limp, you were lifted. “That was way easier than expected.” Natasha mused, stepping over your purse. “Let’s go.” 

Bucky was asleep when his phone began to ring. “Who the fuck is calling me?” He grumbled, reaching over to look. Seeing your name, he furrowed his brows. Just as he was debating on whether or not to answer, the ringing stopped…then started right back up. That got his attention. Sitting up, he answered. “What’s wrong?” His voice was still rough with sleep. 

It wasn’t your voice that answered him. “I think something happened to Y/N.” Kat sniffed. “I-I came home after a date with my boyfriend and her bag was on the hallway floor. Everything is still inside.” Which told you, and him, it wasn’t some robbery gone wrong.

His heart was hammering in his chest. “Alright, I’ll be sending someone over.” He pushed his blanket back and got out of bed. “I’ll text you a picture of the guy I’m sending. Do not open the door for anyone else.” While he didn’t think whoever took you would be back for her, he didn’t want to risk it. 

“A-alright.” She agreed before the two of them hung up. 

As his feet carried him through the house, he sent over a picture of Steve. “Steve!” His voice boomed as the side of his fist banged on Steve’s door. Steve didn’t always stay at his house but Bucky was thankful this was a night he decided to. “Damn it, Steve!” 

“What the hell?!” Steve yawned once he opened his door. 

“Y/N has been kidnapped.” He was breathing heavily. Partially from anger, partially from worry. “Get dressed and head to her apartment. Kat is waiting for you. I’m going to get the others together and find her.” 

Steve nodded, instantly more awake. “I’ll text you once I’m here.” He promised before shutting the door to go get dressed. 

One by one, Bucky’s men arrived at his house: Sam was first, as he was out on a late night run, Wanda was next, then Scott, and finally Clint. Once they were all sitting around Bucky’s table, he explained what was happening. Sam knew about you, but the others didn’t. “My woman, Y/N, was kidnapped earlier this evening.” He watched as Wanda, Scott, and Clint looked surprised. “Steve is on the way to her apartment to install security and make sure nothing happens to her best friend.” He went on. “Scott, I need you to check the cameras around her building. Someone would have had to carry her out. I’ll text you her picture.” Picking up his phone, he sent his favorite picture of you. It didn’t even occur to him that there likely wasn’t anyone else carried out of the building.

“Got it.” Scott instantly agreed, pulling out his laptop to get started right away while Bucky kept talking. Unlocking his phone he pulled up your picture. His eyebrows shot up slightly as he saw how you were Bucky’s complete opposite. You were a sunrise, and Bucky was the night.

“Sam, Wanda, Clint…you’ll go find her once we figure out who took her, and where.” He had a hard look on his face. “You’ll bring her here.” While he would love for you to live there he knew you wouldn’t agree to that. So, he planned to buy your apartment building and make it the safest place in New York City. You’d never be at risk again. On top of that, it would be another legitimate business for him. This way he would have the apartment building and his club. He would burn the city down to find you. 

It was Wanda that spoke up as they waited for Scott to work. “So, uh…when did you start dating Barbie?” She asked. 

He shot her a look. “Her name is Y/N. And it’s been a couple months.” He sighed, running a hand over his face. “Sam, find out who owns her building. I’ll text you the address. Call me when you have anything. I’ll call you if we find out where to look.”

Sam nodded easily. “Sure thing.” He stood as Scott froze. “What’s wrong?” 

Scott turned the laptop with a freeze frame on it. “She’s being carried out by T’Challa. Romanoff is with her.” He knew what that meant. “Stark is behind this.” 

Tagging: @vicmc624 @greatenthusiasttidalwave

[reigningqueenofwords]

Tony Stark

Pairing: Eventual Bucky/Reader, Yelena/Kate Word count: 1,325 Summary: Bucky gets you, Kat, Yelena, and Kate tickets to a concert and the four of you wind up at his clib where Tony finds out about you, and plans to use you against Bucky.

Part 4 of His Angel

There was only half an hour left of your (very slow) shift when the bell above the door made a noise. “Delivery for…” The delivery man looked at the paper and raised an eyebrow. “An angel in pink? The hell?” He mumbled the last part.

Looking over you saw a stack of pizzas from DiNozzo’s. “Uh, that would be me.” You said awkwardly as you went to take them. They smelled amazing. 

“Tips been taken care of. Have a good day, ma’am.” He chuckled at the look on your face before heading out. 

“Hungry, sweetie?” Greg, your 45 year old coworker, asked playfully. 

You sighed. “I asked…my friend…to put in an order at DiNozzo’s for a cheese pizza for Tiffany’s birthday.” You explained. “I guess he felt one wasn’t enough.” Moving quickly, you set them on the table in the small break room. It turned out he got a cheese, a pepperoni, a supreme, and a half veggie half meat pizza. 

“You have a friend who just randomly drops nearly a hundred bucks on pizza? Plus delivery and tip?” Greg gave you a look. It was clear he wasn’t buying it.

“He’s a giver.” You shrugged. And, technically, it wasn’t a lie. “Feel free to take a bunch home for the kids.” You offered. “Give Miranda a break from cooking dinner.” Greg had two kids and one on the way. You could only imagine how tired she could get! Lizzie was 5, Johnny was 3, and she was due in two months. It sounded exhausting. 

He grinned at that. “Thanks. I’m sure they’ll go nuts and that she’ll appreciate it.” And you knew that he did, too. Taking care of them was his top priority.

You nudged him lightly. “You’re welcome.” 

4 pizzas? There were three of us here. I gave my coworker a bunch of it for his kids so his wife didn’t have to cook. You sent him as you sat in the break room after work, munching on a slice of supreme pizza. And there was no clue. 

Licking your lips, you watched as bubbles appeared quickly. Was he waiting by his phone? Do I seem like the type to do anything ‘small’? No. You asked for cheese pizza from DiNozzo’s, you got it. And then more. Also, I said ‘maybe I would’ or ‘maybe I wouldn’t’ give a hint. 

“Ass.” Grabbing another slice you thought how to reply. However, before you could, he was typing again. 

You seem to enjoy bubblegum pop. A very popular superstar will be in town this weekend. Do you want tickets for you and Kat? He offered.

You stared at the phone. Of course you knew who he was talking about! She was your absolute favorite. What’s the catch?!  

1. Make sure you dress up. Buy you BOTH new outfits. Get pampered. 2. I want you to take a selfie of you enjoying the concert and send it to me. Not just a copy of one you’ll post on Instagram. 3. I want you to tell me all about it the next day.

Would you accept? Bucky wanted you to feel spoiled, and this would certainly show you that. “Get four VIP tickets to that concert this weekend.” Bucky glanced at Steve as he came in. “Two go to Y/N and Kat, the other two Yelena and Kate. Tell them it’s payment for keeping an eye on them. But obviously don’t make it obvious.”

Steve raised an eyebrow. “What if she finds out who you are and goes to the cops?” He asked. “And what if the tickets are sold out?”

“First of all, I have the police chief in my pocket.” He shrugged as his phone went off. “Secondly, they wouldn’t really do anything for stalking anyway. They never do.” It didn’t seem to bother him one bit that he was going about wooing you in all the wrong ways. “Then make it happen.” 

“Yes, sir.” He replied, dropping the manilla envelope in his hand onto the desk. Without missing a beat he turned and walked right back out. There would be hell to pay if he didn’t get these damn tickets. And a pissed off Bucky was never fun. Even if they were best friends, Bucky would be hell to be around if you didn’t get those tickets.

Bucky ignored his best friend’s attitude and went back to focusing on your text. You are so demanding 🙄 He grinned. This is going to be a bitch to pay back if I somehow piss you off. 

These are all gifts. I will never ask for repayment. He promised, running his hand over his face. 

Yelena kept glancing at you during the concert. You were nothing like any woman Bucky had shown an interest in before. His usual type was dark, sensual, and dripping with sex appeal. You were bright, bubbly, and she had a feeling that you looking innocent hid your sexuality. 

“I love your outfit!” You grinned at her during one of the quieter songs. 

Kate beamed at you. “Doesn’t she look hot?” She looked at Yelena with heart eyes for a moment, then looked back at you. “It’s nice to see her in color for once. She’s usually in black or grey.” 

You giggled at that. “Nothing wrong with that. When you find the color you feel best in, that’s all you want to wear.” For you that was pastel colors. “I’m Y/N and this is my best friend Kat.” 

Of course they weren’t going to let on that they knew that already. “I’m Kate, this is my girlfriend Yelena.” Kate eagerly introduced them. “It’s nice to meet you.” 

“I’m going to run to the concession stand.” Yelena spoke up. “Does anyone want anything? I have my big brother’s credit card and permission to spend whatever I’d like.” She smirked. At first she didn’t want to agree to this damn concert. Kate, however, did. So here she was, at Bucky’s expense. 

“Water, please!” Kat smiled. “Thanks!” 

“Same. We’re saving the fun drinks for a post concert hang out.” You planned to hit a couple bars, get some food, and hang out. 

Kate’s face lit up at that. “Oh, how about the four of us hit up Winter’s?” She suggested. It was Bucky’s club, so she knew it was safe. “It’s right next to the best Chinese place. They always give extra spring rolls.” 

“She does not play about Chinese food.” Yelena smiled at Kate before slipping out to get those water. It was something she found adorable, if she were being honest.

During the concert you had sent some selfies to him and Bucky had wished he’d been at your side. You looked like you were having a really good night. Plus, Yelena was also sending pictures and updates now and then. When she was in line for water she sent that the four of you would be at Winter’s that evening. Which was a blessing and a curse. On one hand: you’d be in his establishment. On the other: Tony Stark and a few of his men would be there for a meeting. Which meant that he wouldn’t be able to keep an eye on you personally. 

He was mid-meeting when his phone lit up with a selfie from you of you, Kat, Yelena, and Kate, his club in the background. Hope you don’t mind me using that credit card for drinks for my new friends! 😂

Tony was close enough to spot it, and made note of how Bucky’s facial expression changed ever so slightly. He pretended to not have seen the contents of that text. “How about we break to stretch our legs, get a drink, and order some food?” He spoke up. “How can we hope to come to an agreement on an empty stomach?” In reality, he planned to make arrangements to have you kidnapped.

Bucky raised an eyebrow at him for a moment before agreeing. 

Tagging: @vicmc624 @greatenthusiasttidalwave

[world-of-aus]

Dangerous Devotion - Masterlist

Summary: James Barnes should've been the last man you ever became obsessed with. However, curiosity became fascination. Fascination became obsession. Obsession became devotion.

Warnings: 18+ | Mafia AU | Dark Romance | Mutual Obsession | Stalking Themes | Morally Gray Characters | Violence | Possessive Behavior |

Author's Note: What started as a single WHAT IF moment somehow evolved into an entire series, and honestly I have no regrets. Okay well some regrets..

Dangerous Devotion follows two people who probably should've stayed far away from each other but instead become completely fascinated by the very thing everyone else fears.

I. The Beginning (coming soon)

Imagine Mafia!Bucky... - The post that started it all

Dangerous Devotion - Dangerous Devotion snippet

[world-of-aus]

Dangerous Devotion

Pairing: Mafia!Bucky x Reader

Warnings: Mafia AU, obsessive behavior, stalking themes, possessiveness, two people who probably should not like each other as much as they do.

Author's Note: I haven't written for mafia!bucky in so long and im so scared to disappoint so i apologize for this shorter piece! This honestly started as a random “what if” idea and somehow will turn into two equally unhinged people playing the longest game of cat and mouse imaginable. Also all the love to @pinkiebieberpie for this wonderful mood board, had to use it for this first installment to the chaos that will ensueeee 🫶

You really thought by now he'd have stopped surrounding himself with people who didn't appreciate him. It was becoming a rather disappointing pattern.

Did she even know his name? Or did she only know the title whispered behind closed doors? Did she know he disliked people touching his tailored suits? That he'd always adjusted his left cufflink before the right? That he took his whiskey neat, but only after particularly tedious meetings?

No.

Of course she didn't.

Why would she?

Because if she had, she would've known better than to drape herself all over him like she belonged there.

You sighed, swirling the wine in your glass as your gaze remained fixed on the darkened balcony across the street.

Even from here, you could make out unfamiliar fingers lingering against the front of his suit.

The glow of your phone reflected across the rim of your glass.

He always did have a habit of making things harder than they needed to be.

And unfortunately for him, you had always been very good at correcting bad habits.

Unknown Number: I don’t like people touching things that are MINE. Remove her hands before I remove them myself.

James: Then come remove them yourself.

Unknown Number: You’ll find that I really hate repeating myself, James.

REMOVE. THEM. NOW.

I assure you your little friend won’t like what will follow because YOU failed to listen.

James: And you’ll find I’m getting quite bored of your little games.

Where’s your originality?

It’s disappointing, really.

Read.

He stared at his phone a moment longer, willing the tiny word beneath his message to dissolve into three familiar dots.

It never did.

He hated that he noticed, hated even more that he cared.

He had genuinely thought tonight might be the night you finally showed yourself, another piece of you, another glimpse behind the curtain.

Disappointing.

What was even more disappointing were the hands still tracing the front of his tailored suit, fingers skimming over his chest as soft promises for the rest of the evening drifted past his ears.

He heard every word.

He simply didn't care.

His attention remained fixed on the silent screen in his hand.

Where were you?

As the minutes ticked by, the screen remained dark, and somehow, that bothered him more than it should have.

With a quiet sigh, Bucky finally pulled away.

The woman beside him looked up, confusion crossing her features as he gently removed her hands from his suit.

“Sorry, sweetheart,” he murmured. “Not tonight. You've got to go.”

Her expression shifted immediately. “What?” she scoffed. “But you invited me here.”

Bucky glanced toward the phone now resting on the table, “and now I’m uninviting you.”

She stared at him, clearly offended, but Bucky had already turned away.

His mind was somewhere else.

It had been somewhere else all night.

It was late into the night when your response finally came through, the notification cutting through the silence of the room.

Unknown Number: You look better alone.

Attached was a photo; grainy, dark, taken from an angle that should've been impossible. Him, alone in his bed, the soft glow of his screen illuminating his features.

James: You should come join me.

Unknown Number: I like the view instead.

James: Coward.

The three dots appeared, disappeared, and appeared again.

Unknown Number: Be careful what you wish for James

[reigningqueenofwords]

Feisty

Pairing: Eventual Bucky/Reader Word count: 1,180 Summary: Bucky shows his teasing side while dealing with a rival.

Part 3 of His Angel

Bucky was lounging in bed when you replied, making him smirk. Why would I tell you and ruin all the fun? He sent back. He had been hoping you’d text him. 

Moments later he saw three dots pop up. You mean sending women random things is your idea of fun? 

Laughing, he shook his head. Feisty, I like that. He replied. And not women. Just you. I promise. The last thing that he wanted was you thinking that you were one of many. Hell, he hadn’t even gone home with anyone since he’d first seen you. Aside from work you were his priority. Hell, he couldn’t remember the last time a woman held his attention for more than an evening.

Why me? Bucky could picture your face, pinched with confusion. 

Why not you? He countered simply. 

The bubbles appeared and disappeared a few times. Either you were writing one hell of a reply or you weren’t sure what to say. It was adorable. Because I don’t know you, maybe?! You finally sent. 

He thought for a moment before deciding exactly what to write. But I know you, doll. Get some rest. I know you have to be up early.

You stared at his reply. Judging by his text he wouldn’t be replying anymore that night. “Ass.” You muttered. You were torn. It was a really nice phone, but could you really use it and not feel off about it? Chewing on your lip you gathered the items to go talk to Kat and Hux. “Guys, help.” You half whined. 

“What’s going on?” Kat instantly was focused on you. “Did he send you something questionable?!” 

“He sent me a credit card in my name, a note, and a new phone.” You handed her the note to read, and Hux read it over your shoulder. “I would feel weird using the phone, but it’s a really nice phone…” 

You watched as she read it over a few times. “Honestly, I’d use both the credit card and phone.” She handed you the note back. Hux made a noise of confusion. “If you don't, it might offend him. I’m not saying spend a ton, but buy little things here and there? Grab yourself a coffee before work, something to eat between jobs, things like that. This way he sees you’re using it, but you aren’t going overboard. If you don’t he might get pissed off.” She shrugged. “If you gave me a ‘gift’ like that and didn’t use it, wouldn’t you get upset?” Her eyes darted to Hux.

“Yeah, I probably would.” He admitted. “What if he comes after her for the money, though?” He countered.

Kat thought for a moment. “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.” She shrugged. “Just text me from your new phone so I have your number.” 

“I’ll text you both.” You promised. “And I’ll turn on location sharing.” 

“Good thinking.” Hux nodded. “Better safe than sorry.” He’d become your friend in the six months that he’d been dating Kat and wanted you safe. “And you have no idea who this might be?” He asked after a moment. 

You shook your head. “No clue what-so-ever. It’s just some random person that found my wallet. I keep referring to them as a ‘he’, but I’m not even sure about that. It’s not like women never do insane things like this.” Which didn’t help. At least if you knew if it was a man or a woman that would eliminate half the population. At the moment the only ones you could rule out were Kat, Hux, and your coworkers. Kat and Hux wouldn’t do it, and none of them could fund these types of packages. 

“Well I hope he gets bored and leaves you alone soon.” He said sincerely. 

“Thanks.” With a small wave you took your things back to your room. B told you to get some sleep, but how could you sleep when this was hanging over your head? Your body was exhausted, that was obvious. Your mind, however, was wired. 

After a few minutes you decided to just get ready for bed and transfer everything from your old phone to your new one. Now you also needed to memorise your new number. 

If you plan to feed me lunch again, can I at least place an order? Bucky read that as he sat in a meeting the following morning. Chuckling, he licked his lips and quickly replied. 

Tell me what you want, baby girl. Name it and it’s yours. He promised. 

“Mr. Barnes!” One of his associates sounded exasperated with him like he’d been trying to get his attention for some time. 

He slowly looked over at him. The look warned him to watch his tone. “What?” He snapped. 

“I asked what we planned to do about the Starks. They’re encroaching on your territory.” He explained. 

“Get me all the details.” Bucky ordered. “I want anything and everything.” Hearing his phone, his face softened as he read your text. Your name would be nice, but you’re too damn stubborn for that. Credit cards and gifts you can do, but not your name. He chuckled as more bubbles popped up.

Steve watched his best friend and boss, knowing what that look on his face meant. You owned Bucky and you didn’t even have a single clue. He just hoped that you didn’t break him. 

Can I get a pizza from DiNozzos? Cheese. It’s my boss's birthday and it’s her favorite :) 

Knowing that you could have asked for anything you wanted and you chose to ask for something for your boss warmed his heart. Deal. And maybe I’ll give a clue to who I am with that delivery. Maybe not. I guess you’ll have to wait and see. ;) 

You were on the bus to work and rolled your eyes at that. Tease. You sent with a sigh. 

You have no idea. There was no mistaking the implication. One day you’ll find out. 

Wouldn’t that ruin what you have going on here? The whole fairy Godmother thing? Getting up, you moved to quickly exit the bus as it came to a stop. 

You didn’t look at your phone again until you stepped into the store as you hated not paying attention to your surroundings. New York could be a very dangerous place. Well, I do have a magic wand but I haven’t used that for you just yet. Your cheeks felt like they were on fire at that. “Jesus Christ.” You breathed. 

“What’s that, hon?” Your boss asked as she passed. 

Quickly locking your phone, you put your things into your bag. “Nothing.” You muttered. “Happy birthday, by the way.” 

“Sure, sure.” She smirked, a knowing look in her eyes. “You got yourself a man and I think he just sent you something about last night.” She winked as you whipped around to look at her. “I bet he’s a hell of a lover to have you blushin’ like that!” 

How the hell did you tell her it wasn’t a boyfriend that had you blushing…but your gift giving stalker?!

Tagging: @vicmc624 @greatenthusiasttidalwave

[reigningqueenofwords]

So Many Questions

Pairing: Eventual Bucky/Reader Word count: 1,173 Summary: Bucky sends you food, visits your second job, and you and Hux talk about you having a stalker.

Part 2 of His Angel

That concert had been…an experience. Him, Sam, and Steve stuck out like sore thumbs. The venue was mostly teenage girls, their mothers, women in their twenties, and a few dads here and there. He’d caught a few glimpses of you here and there as you sang your heart out. You were a breath of fresh air wrapped in pink. It left him wondering what perfume you used. Was it candy? Was it baked goods? Was it something from nature? One day he would find out. And make sure you had every variation you could ever want.

The three of them left before the end of the concert, having other work to do. Bucky owned a club he needed to check in on, for one. He’d check in on you again soon. 

It had been a few weeks since that box arrived, and you had no idea that your mystery man had been watching you. Just like the day the box arrived, you had to work both shifts that day. So when you were about to leave your first job and head to your second, you were surprised to have a delivery. At your job. “Y/N? There’s a delivery guy here for you. Whatever he has smells amazing.” Your coworker told you as you grabbed your purse from the break room. 

“I’ll be right there. Thanks.” Did Kat order you lunch again? There had been a couple times over the past couple years where she had a really good tipper and surprised you with lunch. “Hi, you have a delivery for me?” 

The delivery man smiled at you. “Here you go.” He handed you the drink and bag of food, stopping you when he saw you reach for your purse. “No tip needed, it’s been taken care of. Enjoy.” Judging by his tone it had been a very good tip. No delivery person was that happy in New York. 

Sipping your drink, you headed out the front door. You’d eat on the way. Once you were at the bus stop you were able to pull out the half sub from the bag, and spotted fries, as well. The food did smell amazing. And when you unwrapped the sub you knew it had been pricy. It looked like it cost more than what you would be able to pay for a single food item. Your stomach grumbled as you took that first bite. If you hadn’t been given this you wouldn’t have eaten until you got home that night. 

Bucky was at your second job when you walked in. He watched as you smiled at another waitress, wiggling your fingers in a wave. He wasn’t in your section, having already been served, but this was a good way to be able to watch you. Moments later you disappeared into the back to change. He wondered if you liked your sub. Finding out your favorite foods wasn’t an easy task. You rarely posted food on social media, so he couldn’t go off that. It was slightly frustrating. He did enjoy seeing your life that way, however. You had a few friends it seemed, and your smile was bright in every picture you posted that you were in. From your Instagram he gathered that you had a very big personality.

Maybe 10 minutes later you were back out and getting to work. He could tell you were tired but you didn’t let that affect your work. At least he had stopped you from trying to work more. Getting another job would send you straight into burnout. 

When you got home that evening, you saw Kat and Hux cuddled up on the couch. “Your mystery man struck again.” She told you, eyes never leaving the television. “There’s pizza on the counter and a box on your bed.” 

Hux looked at you. “You aren’t creeped out?” He asked, furrowing his brows. “Because most women would hate things like this. It’s creepy.” 

You shrugged. “There’s nothing I can really do about it.” You pointed out. “What, should I go to the cops and tell them some guy is sending me food and gifts?” In what universe would that lead to anything happening? They’d likely laugh you right out of the station. And then they would likely randomly joke about the woman who had been worried about receiving money, food, and gifts. You did have to admit, that wallet was super cute.

He nodded with a look on his face that said he didn’t like it. “True. Well, let me know if you ever need help. I have some uncles that my mother pretends don’t exist who would be happy to help.” 

That made you pause, eyebrows shooting up. “Uh, thanks?” You chuckled. “I’ll keep that in mind.” You agreed. “And you guys are more than welcome to help me eat this pizza. I won’t eat the whole thing.” Having them benefit from this worked out. They were your friends and you wanted them to be treated nicely, too. 

“Thanks!” They both said at the same time as you opened the pizza box, making you laugh.

Pizza in hand you made your way to your bedroom. You were beyond curious to see what he had sent this time. That thought made you pause. You assumed it was a ‘he’ based on that handwriting, but you could be way off. What if it was a woman who simply had rough handwriting? There was no rule that women needed neat handwriting. There were so many questions just simply piling up and no way to get answers. 

Sitting on the side of your bed, you noted it was a smaller box. With no postage or even your address. Just your name. That told you that it was hand delivered. Why did that feel more off putting than having it mailed? “Let’s do this.” You muttered around a bite of pizza. Licking your lips you ripped open the box to find a credit card with your name on it, a note, and a new cellphone. 

Cut back the hours on one of your jobs and use this. It’s covered. Also, my number is already in the new phone. Anything you need…text me. 

-B 

Your eyes darted to the phone just in time to see it light up with a text message. It was a much nicer phone than you could have ever bought yourself, that was for damn sure. Lifting it from the box you unlocked it and read the text. 

Sleep well. 

The contact name was simply ‘B’. “Who are you?” Your voice was just above a whisper. While you could just call him, you had a feeling that he wouldn’t pick up. 

Your fingers hovered above the keyboard as you tried to figure out what the hell to write back. Finally, you quickly wrote out Uh, thanks? But who are you and why are you doing all this? Now you had to hope he would even answer you. Until you had proof otherwise, you would be referring to this person as ‘he’. 

Tagging: @vicmc624

[po1s0nv1nes]

Unexpected Gentleness

Taglist atm: @prizzylicious @weasleyswizarding-wheezes @monkeerangerfan

Warnings: Brief language, not much

Note: I decided to add more to chapter three because I felt it was too short, so I hope you enjoy the updated version.

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The kindest people are usually the most violent.

The light in the bedroom was dim, but the Brooklyn cityscape managed to keep it light enough that the shadows of past transgressions didn't dare show their rattling tails. The duvet had grown uncomfortable against Sophia's skin, and at some point while she was sleeping, the cotton had been kicked off of her until it lay mangled at her feet. It wasn't an unusual movement for her, but the movement that did have her nerves prickling with unease was the presence in the corner of the room.

Stirring lightly, Sophia carefully peeled her eyes open, exhaustion deciding to cling to her like a lifeline before death, and subtly glanced over at the leather armchair James had been sat in hours earlier. The figure that occupied the space was just as built as James, but slimmer towards the waistline of his slacks; his head was titled to the left a little, his temple resting on his left fist while his eyes stayed on the bed.

"Your breathing changed, I can tell you're awake, Sophia." A deep, almost disappointed grumbled sigh echoed between the walls of the room.

Okay… Definitely not creeping or stalker-ish at all!

Sophia cleared her throat, shifting carefully in bed as to not jostle her left side, and angled her head to where the armchair was positioned. The little bit of light from the city below was just enough to tell the man had piercing eyes, same as James', yet not as soul seeking—if that made sense to anyone.

She blinked slowly, willing her tiredness to fly away so she could have a coherent conversation with the sentient guardian in the corner, "Do I want to ask why you're sitting menacingly in the corner, or shall I assume James sent you here to watch me because some indiscussible mobster work arose?" The comeback was harmless, it carried more of a teasing lull than any accusation.

A low vibrating chuckle seeped from the mystery man's chest, his head straightening so he could level her with a look—though the reason was unknown to Sophia as to why he needed to glare at her.

"Best bet would be the second option." He stated, a lightness covering his tone, but there was still a wariness hanging to it, "James wanted someone watching you because he'd be out until late in the morning, and wanted to make sure someone would be there if you woke up hurting."

"Oh?" Her tone held questions, but she knew that this kind of business wasn't easily spoken of among civilians, or non-mafia oriented persons.

"He told me to tell you that if you wanted to order something to eat, then you could. Said, and I quote, 'Sophia can get whatever she wants or needs, nobody is to say otherwise.'"

"That's…" Sophia's voice trailed off, confusion crossing her face as her brows furrowed.

I'm literally just a random girl some mob boss found, and decided to take pity on. Why in the hell is he letting me have free reign? What the fuck is happening with my life right now!?

"You seem perplexed that James has decided to give you free will in his penthouse," The man commented, cocking his head to the right, and squinting his eyes as if trying to figure out why this concept was difficult to understand.

"Well, I mean, I'm just some girl he found in a club, I don't see why I'm so special." Sophia replied, then all thoughts of James being unreasonably kind got clouded over by the fact that she had no idea who was sitting across from her. "One thing, first, who are you, and why did James trust you so much to 'guard' me?"

The man's lips tipped up in a smirk, a soft, huffed out laugh escaping from his nose, "My name's Steve, sweetheart, and I'm one of the people James trusts the most with things in his personal life."

"So you're like his best friend?" She quipped back, her tone holding more questions.

Steve inclined his head a little, his shoulders raising in a shrug in the most nonchalant way, "You could say that,"

Great, another man who gives vague answers for a fucking living.

When silence had blanketed the room, Sophia shifted her legs so she was sitting with her legs tucked under her. It wasn't an uncomfortable silence, but more one that felt loaded, yet not dangerous—it was all so weirdly wired.

A ping from Sophia's phone on the nightstand was what broke the silence. Steve's eyes moved from analyzing her in the queen sized bed to where her phone lay on the dark wood of the nightstand.

"You should probably check that," Steve mumbled, leaning back in the armchair, and inclining his right ankle over his left knee, demonstrating a form of complete indifference.

Sophia blinked at him, and the way he sat told her he wasn't moving until James came back. Heaving a sigh, she reached over to the side table, and grabbed her phone. The screen blinded her for a moment before she adjusted the brightness, but what had her heart thumping harder against the walls of her ribcage was the text from boss himself.

James: I see you haven't ordered anything, so I took the liberty of doing it. Peter will bring it up to the main floor of the penthouse, please go down there and eat. I should be back sometime tomorrow morning, but if you feel like leaving, have Steve drop you off.

Her eyes scanned over the words again, and once more for the feeling that coursed through her veins.

He bought me food because I didn't eat.. Okay, genuinely what the hell?

Sophia: You didn't have to do that, James, but thank you. Also, maybe tell your underboss to not sit in the shadows, then randomly announce himself.

James: He's doing his job, I assume? He hasn't moved from the armchair, has he?

Sophia: No?

James: Good. Now, go downstairs and eat.

Sophia sat there, staring dumbfounded at her screen as her brain worked to make sense of this whole situation.

"Come on, Sophia, let's get some food into your system," Steve said, slowly standing from the armchair, and tucking his phone back into the pocket of his slacks.

Her eyes moved from her phone up to where Steve was standing, and if James wasn't the first mobster she had seen, Steve would of definitely taken the fucking cake. He stood about the same height as James did, but his form was slimmer towards the waist. The white button-up he wore seemed too small for his biceps and chest, like he purposefully chose that specific shirt due to ripping his others.

"Yo, earth to Sophia…" Steve's voice seemed to connect with her brain a moment later because the blush on her cheeks from checking him out was more than evident in the dark of the room.

"I wasn't…" Her voice died when her eyes moved to the cocky smirk tugging his lips up, and if her face wasn't already red, it would've been now.

"Sure, sure." He chuckled, tucking his hands into the pockets of his black slacks, his shirt flexing around his shoulders with movement, "Come on, Peter should be downstairs by now."

He stepped up to the side of the bed, his left hand retracting from his pocket to offer help up. Sophia placed her palm into his, and carefully pulled herself up, her phone gripped in her other hand; her side ached a little, but it wasn't as painful to move around like it had been when Dr. Banner was examining her, so that was good.

Once she was braced against Steve's hand, Sophia slowly followed beside him, her movements cautious so she didn't pull any stitches, or make her side ache. They made their way down the hallway of the upper level of the penthouse, and descended downstairs where Peter was waiting near the kitchen with a bag labeled "Dante's Italian Restaurant" across the front, and the smell of pasta seemed to grab a hold of her stomach because she was suddenly very hungry for anything.

As they ate—more Steve sitting next to her at the island, Peter standing near the sink, and Sophia twirling the chicken parmesan pasta onto a fork—she felt like she was home. There wasn't any hustle to finish her food, no worries about bills, or how much longer she had to work as a stripper. She wasn't a freeloader by any means, but it was nice to be able get take out, have a secure roof over your head, and not have any panic attacks at night because rent was due within a week.

But she couldn't stay here. She wouldn't. It wouldn't be right to live off of James' generous actions just because she couldn't pay her bills. This would be the last time she slept in that bed, the last time she saw James' face, because when she woke up in the morning, she needed to leave. Her side didn't hurt as bad anymore, and she had responsibilites she had to take care of.

But for now, she'd enjoy this pasta, and the company of the two men James trusted to be around her.

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Note: I'm pretty sure my inbox is open, so if anyone wants to request a one-shot, a different character's story, or anything along those line--or just send me a message, feel free to!

[po1s0nv1nes]

Second chapter of Her Darkened Fate!!

I just finished completing it, and it's currently 12:43 AM, so if it's a little wonky, ignore it😭

Anyways! @prizzylicious here's the next part!😁

The Light on the Horizon

Warnings: a slight explanation to the previously mentioned SA attempt, and a little language, but nothing overly violent

Note: Enjoy this chapter, and I will try and continue conjuring up plot points for following chapters

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Sophia blinked as she felt something shuffling around her, and when she looked around, all she could see was a dark oak covered bedroom.

"Good morning, ma'am," an unfamiliar, and slightly startling voice, had her eyes snapping to the person off to the side of the bed. A doctor by the looks of his stethoscope, and medical supplies on the night stand.

"Hi..." Sophia mumbled back, pushing herself up, but stopped short when the doctor ushered her to lay back down.

"I'm not sure if you know this, and I would absolutely hate to have you find out by sitting up, but you have a bruised rib, and some other nasty injuries. Mr. Barnes has ordered me to instruct you to stay in bed until you're healed."

Sophia's eyes narrowed, and she went to push herself up again, yet stopped short again when a piercing pain struck her left side.

"I don't think you should be moving, Sophia." A voice mumbled out from the corner, and when Sophia glanced over to the source, her eyes widened.

Sitting in a dark brown, leather armchair was one of the most well known men in all of New York City. James Buchanan Barnes.

Shit.

Dressed in a clean white shirt, with the top two buttons undone, his left leg propped up by his ankle on his right knee, and his entire posture both calming yet absolutely fucking terrifying. What the fuck happened that made her show up here in his bed!? She didn't think she owed him any money... or anything.

"I can see the confusion written all over your face, girl. You don't owe me anything, don't worry your pretty, little head," His voice was low, comforting. But Sophia still got tense at just hearing him speak. "Thank you for your assistance, Bruce."

Bruce stood up with a smile, and nodded towards him, "Have a good day, Mr. Barnes."

Watching the bedroom door close, James slowly stood up from the armchair that sat in front of the large windows that showed off Brooklyn. It was gorgeous, but Sophia was too preoccupied by the powerful man coming to sit on the bed next to her.

"How are you feeling, Sophia?" James asked gently, turning just a little to prop his left leg up on the bed, and to be facing her.

"I'm okay, besides my side... um, can I ask why I'm in your bed?... I didn't do anything wrong, did I?.." Sophia whispered, her eyes round with silent fear. She hadn't noticed he sat down on the bed, but it was oddly comforting? If that's what she'd call it.

James chuckled, running a hand through his hair. He realized he did so, and internally cursed himself for letting his body go through with one of his nervous ticks. Clearing his throat, he looked over at her with a soft smile, "No, you didn't do anything wrong. But I do want to ask, do you remember what happened at the Card-Stack?"

Sophia angled her eyes down as she thought back, searching for an answer to give him, but everything from last night was foggy, except for James carrying her in his arms. "I don't, I'm sorry, Mr. Barnes.."

James' heart ached when he saw her wince when she couldn't come up with an answer. God, she didn't have to be afraid of him.

"That's okay, no need to worry," he mumbled, reaching over to tilt her chin up with his left hand, "you're not gonna get hurt on my watch, okay? Are you hungry? I can have Miles fix you something, or I can get Sam to get you something if you want order out!"

Sophie felt heat creep up her neck, and she fought off a genuine smile. Why was he being nice? Wasn't she a burden? Didn't he have a wife or something to worry about? Another girl? Why was he looking at her like she hung the moon!?

"I... um.." she stuttered out, feeling incredibly out of place, and in the wrong, "I don't really understand why I'm here or how I got here, Mr. Barnes.."

"James, please." He interrupted, forcing his voice to soften towards the end.

"James.." Sophia whispered back, feeling her stomach tie itself into knots and pull. "How long am I staying here? I don't want to burden you or any other women you have... in here..."

One second James was watching her with a concerned look on his face, and the next he was laughing. Fucking laughing! What was his problem now!?

"The only women I have in my home are ones that I have grown up around or ones that I find myself concerned about." James exhaled heavily, wiping at his eyes from laughing so hard.

Sophia felt her lips part, and her head nodding slowly, a soft "oh" flowing from her mouth.

"You look confused, dove. What's the matter?" He asked, genuinely complexed on why she was confused at his kind gestures.

"I-..." Sophia started, but held off from answering, and turned to look down at the bed sheets. Was James only being nice because he was planning something for her? Was he actually being kind? "Why am I here?"

Her voice must've been stern or mean sounding when she asked because James blinked a couple of times before shaking his head, and letting out a soft breath, "I'm not keeping you here under any circumstance besides you being beaten last night in one of the back rooms at Stark's club. After I get you something to eat, and some clean clothes, if you'd like to leave, I won't stop you." He answered honestly, slightly sidestepping the question, but giving her some answers.

Sophia felt her blood run cold for a second, her brain racing a marathon to try and collect the memories from the night before. Her chest felt tight, but not like she'd have a panic attack, just a sudden ache that had her body jumping at the realization of what had happened.

She was working her shift for the night, wearing one of her favorite purple colored bodysuits, her hair done up in two pigtails—that's the hairstyle they liked, and the more money she could rack in, the better. It was about 11:30 after she had done her routine on stage, and one of the regulars had requested a dance from her, so she accepted; again, more money for her.

It wasn't that the dude was drunk or high, maybe a little drugged? Who was she to say what he did before he showed up. But by the time they had gotten to the back room, he was acting pretty violent. That was one of Stark's most enforced rules: you injure one of his girls, your banned, and your name's added to James' list.

They had set up this pact when Tony wanted to set up a club in James' home territory.

Sophia blinked, realizing she had been staring off into space while James waited for a response, "Mr. Barnes-... James, thank you, but that didn't answer my question completely." She whispered, glancing up at him, only seeing a gentle expression on the man's face.

"Well," James exhaled slowly, clasping his hands together in his lap, "after I saw what kind of condition you were in, I couldn't let some random doctors look you over, then release you without a proper examination. After all, you did have a pretty bad bruised rib, nearly broken from what Bruce could tell, and some cuts that needed stitches. I would rather have you be throwing things at me for bringing you here than be passed off as fine when you're in pain."

James' words comforted her, more than he could tell. She carefully lifted her right hand, and brushed it through her hair that she noticed was down—he must have taken them out after he put her in the bed.

"Thank you, James..." Sophia trailed off, her cheeks tinting a light pink at the protective gestures he had made. It was weird feeling cared for, and having someone who wanted her safe.

James smiled at her in the softest way she had ever seen. It was like he was smiling at a baby, good god, it had her heart tripping over itself.

"Anything for you, dove. Would you like anything to eat? Or do you want to rest?" James offered, spitting out his words because to be honest, Sophia was the prettiest, most breathtaking women he had ever set his eyes on. "Or you could explore the penthouse, if you'd like. That way you're not lost if you choose to stay while your recovering..."

It seemed like his voice died, his excitement crippling into a dust of disappointment. Sophia didn't understand it, but she didn't want him feeling like she was gonna up and leave.

She tilted her head to the right a little, her hazel eyes doing a once over of his attire. It look rumpled, wrinkles where you'd think the fabric would be ironed at, and his hair looked a mess. She didn't doubt hers did, either, but it was an anomaly to see such a put together man sporting slight disturbances to his attire.

"I think I might lay back down for a bit, sleep off some of the pain. Do I have to take any medications?" Sophia asked, her face twitching in a wince as she shifted to get a bit more comfortable.

"I don't believe Bruce assigned you anything, but I can definitely get you something if the pain is too much," James gave her a tiny smile, his eyes gentle.

His eyes were never gentle. What was wrong with him!?

"Thank you," She breathed out, her body carefully sliding back under the soft cotton duvets, "for everything. The guy was a regular, he had never been violent.."

The confusion was so evident in her tone that James' brows furrowed, and an unnatural spark of fire burst in his chest. This never happened. What did this girl have in her soul that seemed to connect so well with his?

"I don't like or condone women being beat, regardless of the reasoning. It's all stupid. Men are usually stupid." He huffed a breathy laugh from his lips, his body relaxing when Sophia seemed to relax as well.

James stood up from the bed slowly, his 6'2" self unfolding from the edge of the mattress with an ease that seemed both angelic and devilish. He glanced at the nightstand, his blue eyes full of questions, but now wasn't the time to ask them.

"I will let you rest, if you need me.." he trailed off, his brows furrowing once more before he pulled out a phone from his back pocket, his fingers typing across the screen, "you can text me or call, I input my number into your phone."

The screen flashed towards her, and Sophia could, almost immediately, tell that it was indeed her phone. How had he'd gotten it? It was in her bag, which was back in the private rooms backstage that Stark supplied his club girls. But the haziness of exhaustion fogged her mind slowly, and she couldn't care less about how he had gotten it.

"Okay.." she whispered, her nose nuzzling the other pillows that lined the headboard, and her eyes fluttering closed.

Before James could even register what he was doing, he placed both hands on the edge of the mattress, and placed a quick, barely there, kiss to the crown of her head. Once he stood up, a disgruntled growl at himself ripped from his chest.

Instead of thinking rationally, he lightly dropped Sophia's phone onto the nightstand, then stomped towards the bedroom door. It didn't slam, but it closed with a force that said everything.

This girl was fucking with his head, in someway only the universe knew how.

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I don't mind feedback, I hope you enjoyed!