Fated Marks

After my minor anxiety attack everyone was walking on eggshells around me and someone was always hovering. I went through the day and finished my chores. I checked in with Rebekah who had no other updates and was in the middle of a business meeting.

“That bloody wanker.” Rebekah said.

“I hope you don’t mean that literally because that’d be gross.” I said as I was stirring the tomato sauce.

“That idiot has no idea how to negotiate with a woman.” Rebekah said as I saw a half naked man in the background walk to the kitchen.

“I guess that’s your gain.” I said.

“He’s better in the sack than he is in the conference room.” Rebekah said.

“I really didn’t need to know that.” I said turning the stove off and going to start on the dough.

“How are things on the home front?” Rebekah asked.

“They’re what you’d expect after the big reveal.” I said.

“So they’re hovering and have no idea what to say?” Rebekah said.

“Bingo was his name oh.” I said turning the screen so she could see Steve pretending to draw something while sitting on the living room but really just keeping an eye on me.

“It is a lot to process. How are you holding up?” She asked.

“I’m holding up that’s what matters. Kol tell you about the car?” I asked.

“What a waste of an Italian sports car.” She said. “I have a guest to attend to, you still getting in at the same time?”

“Yes. Heathrow Sunday Morning.” I said.

“See you there.” She said before hanging up.

I got back to working on the pizza dough. Steve put his things down and walked over to the kitchen. He stood there watching for a minute before clearing his throat.

“Need a lozenge?” I said.

“No I… uh need a hand?” Steve asked.

“Sure, you ever made pizza before?” I asked.

“No, but Bucky and I used to got to this place on our block and watch how they threw the dough up in the air.” Steve said with a fond smile.

“Good want to try it out?” I said throwing a bit of flour onto the counter to knead the dough a bit.

“I stretch it out a bit first right?” Steve asked.

“Yeah then once it’s big enough you throw it up.” I said taking mine. “Trick is to catch it with your knuckles instead of your finger tips or else everything would fall apart, Like that.” I said throwing the dough up and catching it like I said.

“Let’s see,” Steve said taking the dough and throwing it up in the air a bit to high so it hit the ceiling. “Oops.”

I couldn’t help but giggle at the look on his face. “Little less force, keep trying.” I said as I kept working.

By the time Steve had finally gotten it I had finished rolling out the rest of the dough.

“I got it!” He cheered.

“Nice.” I said. “What do you want on your pizza?”

“Just a regular tomato and cheese pie.” Steve said.

“No pepperoni?” I asked.

“Not a fan.” He said.

“Really?” I asked surprised. “You’re such a weirdo.”

“Uh I mean I’m just not…” Steve started.

“I’m joking.” I said.

“At least I don’t put fruit on my pizza.” Steve retorted.

“Don’t knock it until you try it.” I said defending my choice of toppings.

“I know things changed since my time but fruit does not go on a pizza.” Steve said.

“It gives it the perfect balance of flavors.” I said putting said pieces of pineapple on a pizza with some ham. I put in the pizza in the ovens along with everyone’s pizza before starting to clean up. Steve’s phone started ringing but he shut it off.

“Work?” I asked.

“It’s not important.” Steve said.

“You’re a really bad liar.” I said.

“I know. I’m not a spy, I’m a soldier.” Steve said.

“You are, you’re also a hero with responsibilities.” I said.

“I also have a responsibility to keep you safe.” Steve said.

“That’s where you’re wrong. I’m not your responsibility Steve. This is my mess to deal with and I am dealing with it.” I said.

“I’m supposed to protect you. I couldn’t protect Bucky and I lost him, I won’t lose you too.” Steve said.

“You’re not going to lose me but you’re not responsible for me either. This is my fight sweetie not yours. You have bigger and tougher things to fight, things that effect the world. Ignoring it won’t make it go away.” I said.

“Hayley…” Steve started to argue.

“The needs of the few don’t outweigh the needs of the world. I survived my brother for years and with worse odds, I’ll manage.” I said picking up his phone and putting it in his hands. “Call him and tell him you’ll be back on Monday.”

“If anything happens…” Steve started.

“I’ll call you everyday or at the very least send a proof of life text.” I said.

“I’m really tempted to just keep you here where I know you’re safe.” He said hugging me.

“You couldn’t keep an eight year old from sneaking out of here, I could break out in half the time.” I said hugging him.

“I know.” He said kissing the top of my head and holding onto me. We were interrupted by a ding of the oven timer.

“Pizza’s ready.” I cheered. I grabbed a pair of oven mitts before pulling the pizza’s out and putting in another batch.

“I don’t think we’re going to need more pizza.” Steve said.

“Yeah we are, one of these isn’t even an appetizer for Hulk.” I said.

“You’re going to…” Steve started.

“I did promise a him a pizza movie night.” I said as I started cleaning up.

“You did but…”

“And I’ve survived arguing with him, I got this.” I said.

“Sometimes I think Tony’s rubbed off on you a little too much.” Steve said.

“Is that a bad thing?” I asked.

“Depends on the situation.” Steve said.

“Not the way you made it sound.” I said picking up the pizzas and putting them in the carriers. “I’m gonna head downstairs, just take them out when the timer rings.”

“You sure you don’t want me down there with you?” Steve asked.

“Didn’t he throw you around like a rag doll last time?” I asked.

“Uh…” Steve was speechless.

“Thought so. See you later.” I said walking to the elevator. I made my way down to the lab where Tony and Bruce were each in their separate corners. I went over to Tony’s side first.

“Hey, time to call it a day.” I said.

“Just need to…” Tony started arguing.

“There’s a home made stuffed crust supreme about to come out of the oven with your name on it.” I said. “Literally put the bell peppers on it to spell out your name.”

“Pizza!” He cheered putting his tools down. “What’s all that?” He said looking at the pizza I had put on the spare lab table.

“I promised the big guy a pizza and movie night.” I said.

“Right, you sure that’s a good idea?” Tony said.

“Is he having a bad day?” I said looking over at Bruce who was looking no more pensive than he normally was.

“No just with everything going on, the other guy might be a bit more inclined to smashing.” Tony said.

“I can handle the other guy. Besides a promise is a promise.” I said.

“I’ll have Jarvis keep an eye on things if he starts to lose it we’re coming in.” Tony said.

“I figured.” I said. “Go, your pizza awaits.”

“Just one thing.” He said pulling me to him and planting one on me. I smiled and reciprocated the kiss before pulling away.

“Down boy.” I said.

“Mh, when do I get a date night?” Tony asked.

“Whenever you ask me out on a date.” I answered.

“So tomorrow?” He asked.

“Oh can’t, Going out with Will. He’s feeling abandoned, one step away from filing for custody.” I said. “Besides Your birthday was our date night sort of.”

“When I say date night I kind of think of one on one time. You know just the two of us.” Tony said realizing what I was getting at.

“I’ll admit the one on one time distribution has been lacking. Mostly because of my one week getaway with Clint followed by the untimely return of Jack the ripper but I promise whenever you show up in London I’m all yours.” I said. “With reasonable three day notice of course.”

“So I could pop over one day and take you to say Venice or Paris for a getaway?” He said.

“If I don’t have class or a test I need to study for then yes.” I said.

“Good.” Tony said kissing me one last time before letting me go. “I’ll be upstairs if you need anything.”

“Kay.” I said giving him a smile.

“Just you know no horror movies or anything with explosions…” Tony started.

“Tony, it’s not my first movie night go.” I said.

“Use protection!” He called out over his shoulder as he walked out.

“Tony!” I yelled only to be answered by the elevator doors closing. What am I going to do with that knucklehead? I sighed before walking over to Bruce’s side of the lab. The partition was closed probably so he wouldn’t head Tony hammering things together. I knocked on the glass to let him know I was coming in.

“Hey.” I greeted.

“Hey, time for dinner?” He asked.

“Yeah I brought down the pizzas.” I said.

“Pizzas?” Bruce said and I pointed at the table where it was all set up.

“Pizzas.” I said.

“That’s a lot for just the two of us.” Bruce said.

“Depends which two you’re talking about.” I said.

“Hayley…” Bruce said.

“I did promise him a pizza and movie night.” I said. “And it worked out really well last time right?”

“I know I just…” Bruce said.

“Panicking because of the last time he came out?” I said.

“He was ready to go on a rampage Hayley.” Bruce said. “I couldn’t stop him.”

“But he did and that’s all that matters. I know you’re worried and my recent track record may not be the biggest confidence builder but Hulk is by far one thing I do currently have a handle on.” I said. “I mean he was okay watching Marley and me with a fifteen year old me that’s saying something.”

“I know I was surprised too. He’s always more quiet and relaxed when you’re around.” Bruce said.

“Then maybe that’s a sign you can loosen the reigns a bit. Maybe that’ll make things easier between the two of you.” I suggested as my stomach started growling. “And can you maybe let him out now? I know I still owe you a date but the pizza’s getting cold and eventually Tony’s going to drive you crazy so you can come visit me in London.”  

“You’re not going to give up on this are you?” Bruce asked solemnly.

“Give up on trying to make you happy? Never.” I said putting my arms around his neck.

“I am happy.” He said.

“You say you are but your eyes are sad.” I said. “Though recently that’s probably on me.”

“You’ve gone through a lot and he’s still after you.” Bruce said.

“I’ve lived having to look over my shoulder constantly my hole life, this is nothing new to me.” I said. “It’s hard but it’s better than the alternative.”

“You’re the strongest person I know Hayley. I ran from Ross for years but to have to run and be on your own as a kid, not everyone can do that.” Bruce said.

“You’re strong too. You’re so afraid of losing control but you don’t let that stop you from doing what’s right and let the other guy come out when the world needs him. You’re a good man Bruce, with a good heart you just have to stop being so damn hard on yourself.” I said. He surprised me by pulling me into a kiss as he wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me closer to him.

“The other guy really wants to come out know.” Bruce said.

“A promise is a promise. You have any spare clothes for after?” I asked.

“Bathroom drawer.” Bruce said.

“Okay then, let the big guy out.” I said.

“Might want to take a few steps back.” He said.

“Right.” I said I gave him one quick peck on the lips before taking a few steps back. Bruce took off his glasses and labcoat before closing his eyes. I watched as his skin slowly started turning green and his muscles bulged out and he grew in size. Suddenly he opened his eyes and they were Hulk’s bright green.

“Hey big guy.” I greeted. He answered with a grim.

“Pizza?” He said looking behind me at the table I had set up.

“Yeah, didn’t know if you had a favorite so I made one of each.” I said. He promptly marched over to the table and started shoveling food into his mouth. “So I brought some movies not sure what you’re in the mood for, I got Inception?”

“Ar.” He groaned.

“Yeah that ending is confusing.” I said. “Bridesmaids that’s a comedy, will says it’s great.”

“No.” He said in between bites.

“I got Life of Pi, it’s really long it’s about some guy and a tiger getting shipwrecked together.” I said.

“Tiger eat puny man?” Hulk asked.

“Considering the movies over two hours long I don’t think so.” I said.

“No.” Hulk agreed.

“I also got Wreck it Ralph, it’s a cute movie.” I said.

“Cartoon?” Hulk asked.

“Yeah and he kind of reminds me of you.” I said. “Want to watch it?”

“Hm.” Hulk said giving me a nod. I walked over to the TV and started setting everything up.

Hulk moved to sit next to the futon since he knew if he sat on it the thing would break. Maybe it was time to invest in hulk proof furniture. I moved to sit next to him on the floor as the movie started playing. It was pretty quiet for most of the movie. He got a bit upset when Ralph betrayed Vanellopie but was okay after I gave him some chocolate and he saw that Ralph redeemed himself.

“Good movie right?” I asked.

“Doggie better.” Hulk said.

I couldn’t help but laugh at that. “They’re each at the top of their categories. How you feeling?” I asked.

“Hulk smash brother?” Hulk said.

“That’s still a big no though I do appreciate the offer big guy.” I said gently patting his arm.

“Birdie scared.” Hulk said.

“Yeah I am, I’d be crazy not to be.” I said. “But it’s going to be okay just have to take it one day at a time.”

“Hm.” He hummed.

“You didn’t buy that for a second did you?” I said.

“No.” Hulk said.

“Thought so. I’m not going to lie and say that I haven’t been tempted to run away. I mean that was the plan for my birthday but like I said I’m tired of running and I have people I care about here so this is the only option I have left.” I said.

“Hulk Smash?” Hulk offered.

“Big guy we talked about this you can’t smash your problems away.” I said making him grunt in frustration. “I know you probably don’t agree but this is the way it has to be, for now anyway.”

“Not good.” Hulk answered.

“It’s not but they could be worse. I think it’s time. It might be a while before we get to do this again. Try not to wreck the lab please, and be patient with Bruce he’s trying.” I said.

“Hm.” He said looking disappointed.

“I’m going to hug you now please don’t crush me.” I said slowly moving over so I was standing in front of where he was sitting. I leaned over and gently gave him an awkward hug. I felt him lift a hand up towards my back and I felt him gently put one finger to hug me back. “Okay big guy suns getting real low…” I started and he started groaning as he started shrinking back down to Bruce.

“Mh.” Bruce groaned. I grabbed a throw from the futon and draped it over him so he would be covered while I went to go grab his spare clothes from the bathroom. By the time I got back he was waking up and sitting up.

“Hey, here are your clothes.” I said handing them to him.

“Thanks, how was movie night.” He asked.

“Good we watched Wreck it Ralph.” I said turning around so he could get dressed.

“Really?” Bruce asked.

“He liked it, he kind of reminds me of Ralph.” I said.

“Is that why he’s so quiet?” Bruce asked.

“He is?” I asked.

“I don’t remember the last time he was so calm.” Bruce said.

“That’s good right?” I asked.

“Yeah it’s great.” Bruce said giving me a warm smile.

“How are you feeling?” I asked.

“I’m tired.” He said.

“Figured, you’ve been working nonstop the past couple of days.” I said. “Go upstairs and get some sleep.”

“I should.” He said rubbing his eyes.

“What do you mean should? Come on.” I said taking his hand. “Up Up Up.” I said helping him up. “You’re going upstairs to your cozy apartment and getting into your nice warm bed and sleeping a good eight hours before we go out for breakfast tomorrow morning. Sound good?”

“I don’t think I get a say in this do I?” He said.

“Nope but it’s not like I’m leading you over a cliff.” I said as we walked into the elevator.

“That’s something.” He said as the elevator doors closed.

“What’s on your mind?” I asked.

“Nothing just enjoying the quiet.” He said.

“Well go enjoy the quiet in bed.” I said as the elevator doors opened. I leaned over and gave him a quick peck on the lips before letting him get off the elevator.

I went back downstairs to clean up and pick up all the dishes before heading upstairs.

I was washing dishes when Clint walked in.

“Hey.” He greeted.

“Hi.” I said rinsing out a pizza pan.

“Need a hand?” He asked.

“Sure, you can dry.” I said. He picked up a dishrag before coming over and drying off the dishes I handed to him.

“We didn’t get a chance to finish our conversation from earlier.” Clint said.

“We didn’t? It was pretty clear. You don’t want me to go and I’m still going.” I said.

“Don’t do that.” Clint said.

“Do what?” I asked.

“Shut me out. We’re bonded Hales I can feel you shutting down on me. I know you’re scared and even though you know how bad of an idea you’re still going through with this. Why?” He asked.

“What happened with your brother?” I asked.

“What?” He said confused.

“After he left you for dead what happened to him?” I asked.

“I don’t know, never really thought about it.” Clint answered.

“That didn’t happen for me. He didn’t stop and he didn’t care who got hurt along the way. This is a real chance, a fighting chance to make sure he leaves me alone for good. I know the odds are pretty slim it’ll be as straight forward as I think it’ll be but it’s still better than waiting here for the dead bodies to start piling up at the door. I went through that once and I won’t go through that again.” I said.

“Hales we can help, let us help.” Clint said.

“I’m not going to risk losing any of you by getting you involved.” I said.

“Hales I’m an assassin, Nat’s a Russian superspy. Stark’s a genius. Banner turns into the damn hulk and Cap’s the greatest the soldier in history let him come.” Clint said.

“Don’t even kid about that. This is between the two of us and that’s how it’s staying.” I said. “No arguments. We all have to face our demons at some point.”

“Doesn’t mean you have to do this alone.” He said.

“You’re not getting involved but I promise if things get out of hand the first call I make will be to you.” I said.

“Why are you so damn stubborn?” Clint asked putting his arms around my waist.

“Because I know I’m right. It’ll work, tracking people down was kind of part of my job.” I said.

“I know I just worry.” He said pulling me closer.

“Stop worrying, we’re in the clear.” I said. “Come on let’s go to bed you look exhausted.”

“Didn’t really sleep much.” He said as he kissed my forehead.

“I could use some sleep too.” I said before I remembered something. “Where’s Nat, I haven’t seen her all day?”

“She got called into the office some crime family Fury needed her to look into.” Clint said stifling a yawn.

“Come on sleepyhead, let’s go to bed.” I said taking his hand and leading him out. I was about to press the button to go to my floor but quickly pressed to go up to his floor. My things were all packed up and also I needed to change the sheets again.

“What was that?” Clint asked.

“What was what?” I said playing coy.

“We’re going to my floor.” Clint said.

“Thought you’d be more relaxed there.” I said.

“I can sleep pretty much anywhere why don’t you want to go to your floor?” Clint asked.

“Everything’s kind of packed up and I haven’t had a chance to change the sheets.” I said avoiding looking at him.

“Stark got lucky on his birthday, good for him.” Clitn said.

“Wasn’t Tony.” I said as the elevator doors opened.

“Wait Nat? Really? That explains the grin she couldn’t keep off her face this morning.” He said with a chuckle.

“She was grinning?” I asked.

“Oh she was, I think there might have been an actual smile in there somewhere.” Clint said.

“Good to know.” I said as we walked up to his room. I slipped off my shoes and slipped off my bra before getting into bed. Clint quickly stripped down and got into bed. “Jarvis wake me up early tomorrow so I can have breakfast with Bruce.”

“Yes Miss Adams Shall I also make reservations at the usual brunch location?” Jarvis asked.

“No thank you that little French bistro a few blocks down should be fine.” I said.

“Yes miss.” Jarvis said.

“Go to sleep.” Clint mumbled as he pulled me to him.

“Night.” I said before drifting off to sleep.

The Next Day-

I was in a complete rush the entire day. I was trying to cram in as much time with everyone as I could. I had Breakfast with Bruce at this small Bistro a few blocks down which turned into a quick visit to the observatory. We made it back around noon. I then got to work making lunch along with freezing a few lasagnas and other dishes so Tony and Bruce wouldn’t starve or live off nothing but take out. I even made a few goodies for everyone to snack on.

By the time I was done I had to go get ready for my night out with Will. I showered and curled my hair. I went light on my makeup with some subtle eye shadows before finally slipping on my maroon body con dress with cutouts. I paired with some gold sandals and some bracelets.

I was putting on the finishing touches when I got a text from Will.

Hayley hurry up the clock is ticking.

I couldn’t help but laugh at Will’s message. I grabbed my clutch and my keys before heading upstairs. Everyone was sitting around the common room doing their own thing.

“Hey so I’m about to head out. I’m leaving the batmobile with Will so he won’t have to come down here tomorrow so can one of you pick me up later sometime between buzzed and blacked out?” I said looking up from my phone to see them all just staring at me. “Anyone listening?”

“Uh yeah I’ll uh just call.” Steve said.

“You’re picking me up in a car right? Chances are I’m going to be pretty messed up later.” I said.

“Where are you going again?” Tony asked.

“Well first I’m going to Will and Nate’s place. And then from there we’re probably going downstairs to the bar for a drink before hitting the clubs.” I said. “Speaking of I should get going, Will’s getting impatient. I’ll see you later.”

“Aren’t you going to grab a coat or something?” Clint said.

“It’s in the car Bye.” I said and with that I was off. I ended up getting trapped in a bit of traffic. I got delayed for a bit but made it there just in time for Will and Nate to bring out the good liquor.

“Sorry I got held up in traffic.” I said as I walked in.

“Holy shit Hayley you are smoking.” Will said.

“Why thank you, You three look pretty great yourselves. SO are we ready to get this party started?” I asked.

“Hell yeah.” Tess said coming out from the room.

“AHHH!!!!!!” I shouted.

“AHHH!!!!!!” She shouted as she moved to hug me.

“You came!” I cheered.

“Of course I came, I get to leave New Jersey! It’s my last hurrah before Liam and I start trying to have a baby…” She started.

“You’re having a baby?” I said.

“He finally wore me down.” Tess said. “This is my last night of freedom before I have to start planning for motherhood.”

“Then we can’t hold back, Will start pouring those shots.” I said.

“Way ahead of you sisters.” Will said handing everyone shots. “To new beginnings.”

“To new beginnings.” We all said as we clinked glasses and took our shots.

Happy New Years Everyone. I’m sorry I’ve been lacking on the updates the past couple of days I came down with a nasty Flu. It was not how I pictured ending the year but I think the worst has finally past. As this chapter said to New Beginnings, I hope the New Year brings us everything we’ve every dreamed of. I for one am Happy 2017 is over because it was one hell of a roller coaster. It built me up and knocked me down repeatedly but that just means I have a clean slate for 2018. This chapter also marks the transition of the story from Hayley being in New York to finally going on the offensive. Thank you for your continued support.