Lead The Way
Bucky’s POV
Bucky wrapped his metal fingers around Iris’ throat but didn’t tighten them.
“Now look who’s on top.” Bucky said triumphantly.
He relished in his power and their closeness. This girl was doing something to his emotions which he didn’t think was possible and this position made it worse, or better, he couldn’t tell. Bucky knew he wasn’t abusive but there was something so sexual and empowering about being in full control.
Iris didn’t seem to feel the same way. The sensory plates in his fingers could feel her heart beating out of control and it didn’t take any technology to sense the fear in her eyes. Something clouded them over and Bucky could only guess what it was. She was desperately clawing at his metal appendage. Shit, what have I done.
Bucky quickly released his grip and bent down to her level. Iris had rolled onto her side was coughing heavily as though she had actually been choking. Something was wrong.
“Iris!” Bucky yelled frantically trying to snap her out of her haze. “Iris, are you okay?” He continued as she looked up to him from her position on the grassy floor. Don’t ask stupid questions Buck. Does it look like she’s okay?
As quickly as it had appeared the forest began to sink back into the walls and floor. The tree Iris had been leaning against began to fade and Bucky noticed her head slipping to the floor. Before they collided Bucky reached forward to cradle her against his chest.
“I’m so sorry, Iris.” Bucky didn’t know what else to say as her breathing returned to normal.
“Don’t be, asshole.” It was no more than a murmur but her voice caused Bucky’s heart to skip. She pushed her lips into her signature smirk but it was quite obviously forced.
Bucky returned her smile hesitantly as she sat up out of his arms. Bucky got up first, extending his arm to help Iris up. She rolled her eyes at first but then took it.
They walked in silence to the end of the room which was only distinguishable from the other walls because of the open door.
Fury stood on the other side, looking at the pair as they closed the glass door behind them.
“What the hell was that Iris?” Fury seemed agitated.
“Back off, Fury.” Bucky said without thinking. Iris looked up from her position next to him. She had recovered completely and was now in a slightly defensive stance.
“You fight fine until the second it gets rough.” Fury continued, ignoring Bucky.
“Well I’m sorry if I’m no match for a fucking super soldier.” Iris grumbled, crossing her arms. Bucky couldn’t keep the smile off his face. It was rare that someone stood up to Fury, especially when they had just met him.
“Excuse me?” Fury seemed frustrated. “I’m your boss now so you better show me some respect.”
Bucky’s breath hitched. Boss? She’s an Avenger already? A few people had come in to apply for the position but almost none of them had made it through the interview. The rest were put through grueling tests, all of which failed. Fury must really see something in her.
Iris was about to open her mouth to say something else but she quickly closed it.
“That’s what I thought.” Fury began walking towards the elevators. “James, get Iris a room, she will be staying.” Fury entered the elevator which always seemed to be there exactly when he needed it. The doors closed behind him. Bucky and Iris were now alone.
“So, you want to talk about what happened in there?” Bucky asked, regretting the words as soon as they came out of his mouth. He already pressured her into opening up about her past and gave her nothing in return.
“Just some shitty flashbacks.” Iris responded much to Bucky’s surprise. She was scraping her toe against the ground. “They always get worse during withdrawal.”
“I’m sorry, I didn’t know.”
“Whatever, it wasn’t your fault.” Iris looked up to Bucky and gave him a real smile which Bucky gratefully returned.
“Now let’s go talk to Stark about that room.” Bucky continued. As a joke he offered his arm to Iris, expecting her to scoff or roll her eyes. Much to his surprise she hooked her arm around his with a wide grin spreading across her face.
“Lead the way Barnes.” Bucky chuckled as they walked towards the elevator taking Iris up to her new life.
Damn, I might just be in love.