Fated Marks

After helping everyone move in my job became a bit more complicated. I was now the middleman between the avengers and the PR team and on occasion the legal team. I had to nag Tony more often to go to meetings and to go to any team trainings. I was also in charge of making sure everyone had everything they needed. I went from being just Tony’s personal assistant to everyone’s.

I couldn’t complain, they were all great. I had gotten dragged to a few team dinners and they were hilarious.

My day had a pretty regular routine now. I woke up got dressed and went to class. Met up with Nate and we’d go study at a coffee shop or the library together. After classes were over I’d go to work. On my way I’d stop for coffee and donuts. I’d stop by the lab and leave Bruce and Tony their favorites before working my way up to each floor. The rest of the team were normally in the gym so I’d leave their coffee and donuts on their kitchen counters along with their mail and newspaper or magazines. When I got to Clint’s floor I’d leave his coffee and donut on the counter and I’d take Lucky on his mid day walk. I’d come back give him some water and then head down to the lab and review what was on the schedule. It was normally just a meeting or two I’d tag along and take notes. Then I’d head up to the lab, help with whatever project Tony was working on and then order lunch. I’d be in the common room working on schoolwork until something came up. Clint or Thor would come and hang out and occasionally Steve and Natasha when they weren’t busy. At the end of the day I’d go downstairs to legal and meet up with Will who Tony had gotten a job as a part time paralegal. We’d go home and repeat all over again the next day.

About a week or so after the team moved in I was in the living room working on some homework while Clint was teaching Steve and Thor how to play Mario Cart when my personal phone started ringing.

“Hello.” I answered not bothering to check the caller ID.

“Hey Hayley, it’s Nate.” He greeted. “Are you busy?”

“No I’m actually on… my break.” I said. It wasn’t technically lying.

“So I know you’ve been pretty busy with midterms just ending and finals coming up but you do have to take a break to eat at some point and I was wondering if you’d want to take a break with me?” Nate said making me smile.

“Is this your way of asking me out on a date?” I asked and at the mention of that The game paused and I heard the elevator ding.

“Would it be okay if it was?” He said.

“I wouldn’t mind if it was.” I said.

“There’s this Italian place in the village I’ve been meaning to check out are you free tonight or…” Nate started.

“Tonight’s perfect. I get off work around six.” I said.

“I’ll pick you up at your place around seven thirty?” He said.

“That’s perfect.” I said.

“See you then.” He said before hanging up.

“I know that look, someone has a date.” Tony said in a sing song voice.

“I may have been asked out and I may have said yes.” I said. I felt a sudden wave of sadness hit me from all my marks.

“That Nate guy?” Clint asked.

“Yeah.” I said. “Were going to some Italian place in the village.”

“Oooh, what are you wearing?” Pepper asked.

“Don’t know, probably this.” I said. I was wearing a burgundy chunky knit sweater and a pair of grey jeans with a pair of flats.

“You’re going to a romantic Italian restaurant, I don’t think that’s the right outfit sweetie.” Pepper said.

“Wait romantic?” I said.

“It’s a date, it’s Italian, it’s kind of implied.” Tony said.

“Crap, I can’t wear this, I literally rolled out of bed and put on the first thing I could grab.” I said making everyone chuckle.

“Let’s have a girls day, You me Natasha, we can go shopping and get manicures, make a day out of it.” Pepper said.

“that’s be great but I have work.” I said.

“take the day off, it’s a slow day anyway.” Tony said.

“You told Jarvis to cancel everything didn’t you?” I said.

“No everyone just happened to cancel.” Tony said. “You’re young go have fun. It’s on me.”

“I’ll call Natasha.” Pepper said.

“Are you sure?” I said.

“Yes go.” Tony said.

“But…” I started.

“Hayley, you’ve been working nonstop for the past two weeks. Go have fun.” Steve said.

“I guess you’re right.” I said. “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Bye.” They called out after me.

“Natasha said she’ll meet us at the garage.” Pepper said.

“Thank you for doing this, I know you’re really busy.” I said.

“You have nothing to thank me for, besides I kind of also need to buy a dress for a date. It’s been six months since I met Daniel and he wants to go out and celebrate.” Pepper said with a huge smile.

“Congratulations.” I said returning her smile.

“And since Tony’s paying let’s hit Barney’s.” Pepper said.

“I can’t afford that and it’s way to much…”

“Sweetie take some advice from someone who was once in your shoes, when Tony says it’s on me don’t argue just take it. There’s no strings it’s just the way he is.” Pepper reassured me.

“Can I also get shoes?” I asked.

“I think he can swing it.” She said.

“Are you ready to go?” Natasha asked.

“Yes” Pepper said. We got into a very expensive looking Bentley and got dropped off at Barneys. Apparently they were expecting us.

“Miss Potts, it’s great to see you again.” The woman said.

“Carol, you look amazing, how’s the baby?” Pepper asked.

“Beautiful baby girl.” She said proudly

“Congratulations.” Pepper said.

“But that’s not why you’re here what can I do for you ladies?” Carol asked.

My friend and I are looking for date dresses.” Pepper said.

“What type of date are we talking about?” Carol asked.

“For me it’s the six month anniversary that we met.” Pepper said.

“It’s kind of the first date date, we’ve gotten coffee together but it was just as friends at least I think it was just as friends.” I said.

“Oh I know just the thing for you.” Carol said disappearing for a bit and coming back with a bunch of dresses. “Here are some of our recent arrivals. Come on let’s take a look.” She said ushering me into a fitting room.

The first dress I tried on had a red and black print with leather straps on the shoulders and a sash. It was an A line and a bit poofy.

“That’s cute.” Pepper said. “But not really for a dinner date.”

“More like a tea party.” Natasha said.

The next dress was teal with a silhouette neckline. I liked it but I wasn’t too sure.

“That is your color.” Pepper said.

“It brings out your eyes.” Natasha said with a smile as she snapped a picture and showing me.

“It’s my favorite so far.” I said.

The next dress was a mauve color with a lace overlay and silhouette neckline. All of my soulmarks except the ones on my arms were covered.

“Okay this one’s my new favorite.” I said. “But is it too much?”

“Whoa.” Pepper said. “It fits you like a glove.

“Nate’s going to drool all over you when he sees you.” Natasha said snapping another picture. “Some black heels will make it look even better.”

“Let’s just hope I don’t fall.” I said. “I’m a bit out of practice.”

“Try the other ones on, see if any of them beat this one.” Pepper said.

Third Person’s POV-

Hayley walked back into the dressing room. Pepper turned to Natasha who was texting someone.

“I’m guessing there’s something Tony forgot to mention.” Pepper said.

Natasha just looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

“Her soulmarks.” Pepper said.

“We haven’t told her.” Natasha said.

“You mean she doesn’t know? How?” Pepper asked.

“We haven’t told her and all things considered she’s better off not knowing.” Natasha said.

“Nat, you can’t honestly tell me you’re okay with watching her go out on a date with someone else. You can feel the pull.” Pepper said.

“It doesn’t matter, She’s safe and happy that’s all that matters.” Natasha said smiling as she saw Hayley walk out in yet another dress.

Hayley’s POV-

“This is the last one.” I said. This last one was a lot different than the other ones it was short and all black. It had studs at the hem of the dress and a slit.

“Wow.” They said at the same one.

“I know right. It’s a little black dress with an edge.” I said.

“That’s the one.” Natasha said.

“Yes.” Pepper said.

“Are you sure?” I asked.

“You haven’t stopped smiling since you walked out. That’s the one.” Pepper said. I turned to look at Natasha to see if she thought the same but she was staring at me in awe.

“Well Nat’s speechless so I think this is the one.” I said smiling. I saw another flash of a photo being taken.

“Better start looking at shoes.” She said.

The rest of the shopping trip was a blast. We got a pair of Louboutins that Natasha grabbed for me and wouldn’t let me put back.

After we were done shopping we quickly got to the salon and I had my hair done and a mani pedi. Natasha did my make up. She left it pretty simple but with red lips and a subtle eyeshadow.

“Wow, you are good.” I said.

“Didn’t really have to do much.” She said with a smile. “Final test smile.” Natasha took a picture. “Perfect.”

“This coat is perfect for later.” Pepper said handing me a black coat I had in the back of my closet.

“I can’t thank you two enough. I would not have been able to pick out an outfit this great without you two. Thank you.” I said hugging Pepper and the hugging Natasha. She hesitated for a bit before returning the hug.

“We should go. We’re going to want details tomorrow.” Pepper said.

“You’ll get them.” I said. “Night.”

“Night.” They said walking out.

I waited a couple of minutes before there was a knock at the door. I took a deep breath and opened the door.

Nate was wearing a grey suit with a white shirt and black tie.

“Wow, you look amazing.” He said with a huge smile.

“You clean up nicely yourself.” I said.

“You ready to go?” he asked.

“Sure just let me grab my coat and clutch and I’m good to go.” I said doing so and locking up.

We took a taxi to the village and got to the restaurant. Nate had made reservations so we were seated as soon as we got in. Tony and Pepper were right it was a very romantic place, but for some reason I felt guilty just being there. I shook of the feeling and smiled. Nate was a great guy and he deserved a chance.

Third Person’s POV-

“Tony!” Pepper said marching in.

“Pep, what’s going on?” Tony answered.

“Is there something you forgot to tell me?” Pepper said with her arms crossed.

“Uh no, I’m fairly sure I’ve told you everything.” Tony said.

“So hayley isn’t your soulmate and you haven’t been keeping this a secret from her?” Pepper said.

“Oh that, If it were up to me I’d be all for it but we all made an agreement that it had to be unanimous. Were currently tied.” Tony said.

“No we’re not, We need to tell her.” Natasha said.

“What?” Steve and Bruce said.

“What changed your mind?” Clint said.

“I spent the day with her and I felt… at peace.” Natasha said knowing Clint would understand.

“So four to two, that’s progress.” Tony said.

“You guys can’t make decisions for Hayley like this.” Pepper said.

“Thank you.” Will said.

“You knew too?” Pepper said.

“Found out the day they all moved in.” Will said. “Guys if Hayley finds out you kept it from her for this long she will not take it well. Honesty if the one thing she values more than anything. It’s the same reason I’m not allowed to throw surprise parties, if you lose her trust you’re never getting it back.”

“It’s her life too, she should get a say. And if you lose her it’ll be the dumbest thing you do.” Pepper told Tony before walking away.

“Not to mention if she finds out I helped keep this from her she will never speak to me again. I love my sister don’t fuck this up.” Will said following after Pepper.

“Anyone else change their mind?” Tony said. Everyone just stayed quiet. “Didn’t think so.”

They were quiet for a minute before they all felt it, the sadness and guilt coming from their soulmark.

“Think she can feel us?” Clint asked.

“Probably, there were a few times I saw her touch the soulmark on her arm, mine to be exact and it was when I started doubting keeping the secret.” Natasha said.

“So she does get feelings from us.” Tony said. “That makes it easier.” He snarked.

“Tony…” Steve said.

“He’s right, Steve we’ve spent the past two weeks getting to know her, you can’t say you haven’t felt the pull.” Clint said.

“Aye, I’ve felt her joy, her insecurity and her sadness. But more often than not those feelings fade away when one of us is near her.” Thor said.

“She’s on a date with someone else.” Steve said. “Shouldn’t we let her have a chance to see how that goes? We all have a past, previous relationships, she’s a kid if we tell her that’s also taking another choice away from her.”

“It’s not like we’d force her to be with us.” Tony said.

“She might not see it that way.” Steve said.

“So we wait.” Bruce said. “See how things go with this Nate guy.”

“But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t check up on Hayley like say do a background check on this Nate guy.” Tony said.

“Way ahead of you.” Natasha said bringing up what her search on her phone before having Jarvis bring it up on the Screen.

“Nate Archibald, Senior at Columbia, Political Science major, Recruited to Play on the lacrosse team even got a scholarship. Grandson of Oh!” Tony said.

“What?” Steve said.

“Hayley’s Nate is the grandson of William Vanderbilt.” Tony said.

“Is that supposed to sound familiar?” Steve asked.

“The Vanderbilt’s are up there with the Kennedy’s in Politics. They’re old money, don’t have as much as yours truly but yeah.” Tony said.

“You think Hayley knows?” Clint asked.

“Doubt it.” Natasha said. “She doesn’t seem the type to care about someone’s money, Pepper and I practically had to force her to get the dress she chose after she saw the price.”

“Lady Hayley is dating a prince?” Thor asked.

“Not a prince exactly more like a really rich guy who’s family helps run the country.” Clint simplified.

“Oh.” Thor said looking troubled.

“Where do we go from here?” Tony asked.

“Same as before we wait it out, no one says anything.” Bruce says.

A few weeks later- Hayley’s POV

The date with Nate went great. He was a very chill guy. We agreed to take things slow and see where they go. I still hadn’t told him I had seven soulmarks and I didn’t plan on telling him anytime soon. People had different ideas on having multiple marks. I doubted I’d ever meet any of them but the fact that I could feel something from them on occasion was reassuring.

Work had been pretty awesome. It had been kind of slow so I mostly hung out with whoever was around. It had gotten to this point that there was a pattern. On Monday’s I’d spend it with Tony helping him get ready for his temporary move to the West coast. He said that I’d still work with the rest of the avengers but that we’d mostly just Skype or email. He was very reassuring that it would almost be like he was right there and I didn’t need him to say it to know he was right. I felt a bit sad but I he knew how to cheer me up.

Tuesday’s I’d spend with Natasha, it was either watching TV, spa days or she’d teach me self defense. She said it was the basics but it didn’t feel like the basics. We’d also go shopping, she had really good taste.

Wednesday’s was lab day. I would be down in the lab with Bruce. I’d work on homework or look over a project the research team at Stark Industries was stuck on that Tony forwarded to me. Bruce would work on his research but whenever he’d get stuck he’d explain it to me and just throw out ideas. I would tell him my opinion and ramble about something which would give him another idea and we’d go back to work.

Thursday or Thorsday like I called it I’d spend with Thor. It was mostly sitting on his back while he did push ups. We’d watch TV, go out into the city and see the sights and I’d teach him some earth customs. I couldn’t have him smashing mugs every time he asked for another cup of coffee. I admit I did take him to a bar once and that started a trend of smashing beer mugs. Carl almost banned us from MacLaren’s.

Friday I’d spend with Steve. That was spent mostly catching him up on everything he’d missed. History was a really good topic. We’d spend hours debating past events. Then we’d switch to pop culture. We got through the original Star Wars trilogy before he insisted on watching the prequels so he could understand everything better. I warned him they weren’t as great but we still watched them. He was not a fan of Jar Jar Binks.

I started Working Saturdays because Will worked Saturdays and I was lonely. Tess and Liam moved to New Jersey so we didn’t see them as often. That day I spent with Clint. He was very outdoorsy. We went hiking or to the beach Or we’d go try crazy food trends around the city. If someone said they had the best something we went to try it. There were a lot of hits and misses.

All in all everything was great I had friends, good grades, a boyfriend and life was great. Yet I couldn’t help but feel like something was wrong. That things weren’t the way they were supposed to be.