Fated Marks

Calliope’s POV-

The normal five-hour and a half hour flight from New York to Vegas only took four hours with Tony’s private jet. The New Repulse engines he had recently modified and patented hadn’t hit the market yet but that didn’t mean he didn’t have them on his jets. It was quiet on board and for some reason he had sent the luxury jet to pick me up. I’m guessing whatever was so urgent he needed me to fly across the country ASAP must be important.

My guess was confirmed when Happy was waiting on the airfield ready to go.

“I’m guessing it’s bad?” I asked.

“Oh just the usual stuff.” Happy said.

“Strippers? Escorts? Clingy one night stands?” I asked.

“To start. Come on we have to go pick up the boss.” Happy said.

“Which Hotel is he staying at?” I asked.

“Las Vegas PD Drunk Tank.” Happy said.

“You’re kidding.” I said.

“Nope, he told me to tell you to get on damage control. Make sure no one ever finds out about this especially Pepper.” Happy said. “Why are your eyes so red?”

Because I spent most of the flight crying over the fact my best friend is giving up his dream but still wants to give me a chance at something I decided only a week ago I wanted.

“Long night.” I said putting on my sunglasses and taking out my phone. I got into Jarvis and backtracked Tony’s entire night before getting on the phone with the management of Caesar’s Palace. We walked into the Police Station where I started filling out paperwork while Tony’s lawyer worked to make sure there were no charges being pressed and that this entire mess wouldn’t end up on any records.

“Yes He understands. Mister Stark appreciates everything you’ve done and will be sure to consider you as a possible future expo venue.” I said before hanging up.

“That’s a great idea Cal, work during the day and party all night long.” Tony said. I turned around and glared at him. “Why are your eyes so red? Were you crying over me?”

I didn’t say anything just glared.

“Can we go now?” Bruce said.

“You too?” I asked. “Is that a black eye?”

“Usual crazy night in Vegas for our long over due company retreat. Is Rhodey in the car?” Tony asked.

“Why would Rhodey be in the car?” I asked.

“Uh Happy?” Tony asked.

“I may have lost Rhodey while I was making sure you two didn’t get recorded doing anything.” Happy said.

“You lost your best friend?” I asked.

“I didn’t lose him, he got misplaced.” Tony said. I took a deep breath and counted back from ten.

“Call Rhodey, find out where he is and we’ll pick him up. I’m going to call ahead and make sure your jet is ready to head back as soon as we get there.” I said.

“Weekend’s not over we can take a late brunch…” Tony started.

“No!” I said sternly. “We are picking up Rhodey and leaving before you do something to get yourself arrested again. You’re lucky the press didn’t find out about this.”

“Brunch comes with bottomless mimosas.” Tony bribed.

“No brunch!” I exclaimed. “Butts, Car, now.”

“You do remember I’m the one that signs your paychecks right?” Tony said and I glared at him. “Getting in the car.”

“Good call boss.” I said before my phone started ringing. I picked it up and saw it was Clint again.

Ignore

I dialed the hotel and asked them to give Rhodey a wake up call. Unfortunately the US Air Force Colonel woke up handcuffed to the room balcony railing with no memory of how he got there or where the key was. Luckily one of the hotel maintenance guys moonlit as a magician and had a spare key with him. I got the three of them on the jet, provided full proof alibis for the three of them to tell their wives or in Rhodey’s case his Commanding officer, and made sure no one ever found out what happened.

I was sitting down in my seat looking through some of the donors that hadn’t come off as creeps immediately on my tablet when Tony put a glass of what I’m guessing was orange juice and vodka in front of me before sitting down across from me. I gently pushed it away.

“Oh come on sunshine it’s a screwdriver, you know I’m good at mixing drinks.” Tony said.

“Can’t drink.” I said.

“We’re in the air no one cares you’re not twenty one.” He said as my phone started ringing. I already knew who it was so it went straight to voicemail.

“I can’t drink because of the fertility treatments.” I said.

“Shit, forgot.” He said taking it away.

“Don’t you think you’ve had enough drinks for one weekend?” I asked as my phone started ringing and sent it to voicemail without even looking.

“Something going on?” Tony asked.

“Nope.” I said.

“You’re phone hasn’t stopped going off and you keep sending it to voicemail.” He said as it rang again. “And it’s Clint.”

“I don’t want to talk about it.” I said.

“Do you want to yell about it because you’ve been doing that a lot today?” Tony said.

“Tony, you know you deserved it, leave the kid alone.” Rhodey called out.

“I’ll get you something else to drink.” Tony said getting up.

I was sitting down when he sat back down again. I looked out of the corner of my eye and saw that it wasn’t Tony but Bruce.

“Is your eye bothering you?” I asked.

“No, just wanted to say thanks for bailing me out.” Bruce said.

“Just doing my job.” I said.

“What are you working on?” Bruce asked.

“Side project.” I answered. “Personal side project.”

“You sure you’re okay?” Bruce asked.

“I’m fine.” I said.

“Please fasten your seat belts we are starting our descent and will be landing in Chicago shortly.” The captain said.

“Chicago? I think he made a mistake.” Rhodey said.

“He didn’t. You’re dropping me off.” I said.

“In Chicago?” Bruce asked.

“I’m not ready to go home yet.” I said.

“What’s going on?” Tony asked.

“My decision to freeze my eggs got a bit more complicated than I thought it would and some things were said and the person I normally talk about these things with is kind part of the reason things got complicated so I’m go work through this before heading back on a red eye.” I said as the plane landed. I checked my phone and saw that my ride was already waiting for me. “See you tomorrow at work.” I said getting off.

“Do you want us to wait?” Tony asked.

“I’m good.” I said before walking off the plane towards the sports car waiting at the entrance to the hanger.

“Do you need a ride?” Tony called out. He may not be perfect but when Tony cares he cares a lot.

“Got it covered.” I said as Kol got out of the car. He didn’t say anything just tossed his keys at me.

“You’re driving.” He said.

“Elijah let you borrow his car?” I said looking at the Black Bentley Continental.

http://radkamaric.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/2014-Bentley-Continental-GT-Speed.jpg

“He didn’t which is why you’re driving It.” he said hugging me. “I’ve missed you by the way.”

“Missed you too.” I said before breaking the hug.

“Your boss let you borrow his jet?” Kol asked.

“More like were on our way back from a company retreat and he’s dropping off on the way back.” I said waving to Tony before getting in the car.

“So you just popping through for a visit or did something happen?” Kol said as he closed the door.

“What? Can’t someone just miss their brothers and dad and decided to pop in for a visit?” I asked starting the car before speeding out of the hanger.

“Yes but most of the time you call Marcel first.” Kol said.

“It was a last minute thing.” I answered.

“Right.” Kol said.

It had been a while since I had been home but once I got on the road it was like I had never left. I knew all the shortcuts to avoid traffic. I knew where the highway patrol hid to wait for people speeding, which I may or may not have doing. Finally we reached the black iron gates of the estate and I couldn’t help but smile.

As soon as the gates opened I went straight down he road and drove into the garage to park the car where Elijah always put his car.

“Kol I’m fairly sure you have your own car.” Elijah said standing at the doorway.

“I do but yours has nicer seats.” Kol said with a smirk. “And I wasn’t driving.”

“That’s half right.” I said.

“Callie.” Elijah said smiling and coming over to hug me. “It’s been too long.”

“Yeah, it has.” I said returning the hug.

“To what do we owe the visit to?” Elijah asked.

“No reason just missed you guys.” I said.

“We missed you too.” Elijah said giving Kol a look.

“Dad and Nik home?” I asked.

“I thought I heard you in here.” Nik said coming out of his studio.

“Hey stranger.” I said hugging him.

“It’s been a while love, I don’t remember the last time you came down for a visit.” Nik said.

“The same can be said about you three.” I said.

“We live busy lives.” Elijah said.

“How long are you in town for?” Nik asked.

“Just a few hours, Any chance Dad’s home?” I asked.

“He had to take a business call in the office but he should be back for dinner.” Elijah said.

“And since you came over without calling him first it’s safe to assume you weren’t even planning on stopping by to begin with.” Nik said.

“I may be trying to not get back early.” I said.

“Trouble with the boyfriend already?” Kol asked.

“Boyfriend?” Nik and Elijah said at the same time.

“No Nate and I are fine. We do all the couple crap when we see each other, make out, dates, over the clothes stuff. We’re good.” I said.

“Then who are you avoiding?” Elijah asked.

“Who’s avoiding who?” dad said as he walked in. “Cal?”  

“Surprise!” I said going to hug him.

“I didn’t know you were coming.” Dad said rocking me back and forth as he hugged me tight.

“Neither did she.” Kol said and I shot him a glare.

“I was coming back from a company retreat and asked Tony to drop me off so I can visit. I have to be back by tomorrow morning but you guys get me for the rest of the night.” I said.

“So what are you running away from? Is it Nate? Did he do something? Did he hurt you?” Dad said.

“No no we’re good. He’s at a family thing up state.” I said. “He’s like the perfect boyfriend. Total gentleman.”

“He better be.” Dad said.

We made small talk and when it was finally time for dinner we all headed to the dining room and took our usual seats. I didn’t realized how much I missed having dinner with all my siblings. I missed the bantering and snark Nik and Kol tossed around. I liked how Elijah added his input every now and then with his deadpan delivery. Even dad jumped in a few times.

When we were done Nik, Elijah and Kol offered to clean up and Dad and I went to the study to talk.

“You’ve been quiet.” Dad said.

“Just enjoying the banter.” I said. “Only person missing was Bekah.”

“Well you’ll have all summer to catch up with her.” Dad said.

“More like a month. I want to work during the summer.” I said.

“Cal.” Dad said.

“My hours are going to be pretty flexible and I’ll actually be traveling. I’m actually spending a month in London.” I said.

“I thought we talked about you taking it easy.” He said.

“I am.” I said.

“Yet you’re working on weekends?” Dad asked.

“That was only a few hours and it was just making phone calls.” I said.

“Did you use this company retreat to avoid something or someone?” Dad asked.

“Maybe.” I said.

“Cal.” Dad said. “Sweetheart what’s going on?”

“Dad it’s kind of crazy.” I said.

“Try me.” Dad said.

“So I’m freezing my eggs because I decided that I want to have kids in the future and I want to keep my options open.” I said.

“That’s great.” Dad said. “How does that work?”

“I take some hormone shots every day for a few weeks then I do an outpatient procedure for the extraction and they freeze them.” I said.

“When’s your procedure?” Dad asked.

“Next Friday. I already have it all covered. I’m taking my finals early and Clint’s going to drive me there and back. Steve and Bucky moved in so I won’t be alone, it’s covered.” I said.

“I can move some stuff around…” He started.

“Dad it’s taken care of. Thank you.” I said.

“I have a feeling there’s more to this.” He said.

“You know me to well. Since I’m a little on the young side and don’t plan on having kids for a long time they recommended I get a donor and freeze embryos instead because they last longer.” I said.

“Donor as in sperm donor?” Dad asked.

“Yeah, there’s a catalogue and everything.” I said. “There must’ve been at least two hundred pages and not one of them was good. So Clint who went with me to the appointment and is also freezing his sperm offered to be my donor. He told me that yesterday morning and this morning over brunch we kind of had a big fight. I got a call from work and I left.”

“And why you’re here right now.” Dad said.

“I just, I can’t face him right now because I don’t know what to say.” I said.

“Do you want Clint to be your donor?” Dad asked.

“That’s an insane idea.” I said.

“So that’s a no.” He said.

“That’s a I have no idea what I want.” I said. “We had a joint appointment because Clint’s my rock. He wants kids and he wants to keep that possibility open but he’s offering because he doesn’t think he’s ever going to get that so he’s settling for this. He says he’s okay with me having our kids and having some other random guy I may end up with be their dad as long as I get to be their mom but it’s not right dad.”

“I don’t think Clint’s settling.” Dad said.

“Clint’s dream is to have a family and if I agree to do this I’d be letting him give up on that and I love him too much to let that happen.” I said.

“You love him?” Dad asked.

“You know what I mean.” I said.

“Actually I do I just don’t think you know what you mean.” Dad said.

“We’re just friends.” I said.

“Then why is this affecting you so much?” Dad said.

“Because this entire situation is a mess.” I said.

“It’s only a mess because you’re making it more complicated than it really is.” Dad said.

“So you want Clint to be the father of your unborn grandchildren?” I asked.

“I want you to be happy, which is what you want for Clint and what I’m pretty sure he wants for you too. He loves you Cal.” Dad said.

“I know and I love him too which is why this is so hard.” I said. “And how are you so okay with this. Most dads would be freaking out at the fact their teenage daughter was best friends with a forty year old guy and was considering having kids with them.”

“Most dads don’t have daughters like you Cal. You’re young but your more mature than most people I work with daily and you’ve been like this since I met you. Your mindset is way ahead most people your age so it makes sense that you’d get along with people older than you.” He said. “Just talk to Clint. Explain to him what’s really bothering you about this and I’m fairly sure he’ll clear up a few things for you too.”

“I don’t want to lose him dad.” I said.

“You’re not going to lose him, he loves you Cal.” Dad said.

I stayed the night and left early the next morning. Turns out Elijah had a meeting and Nik was going to go look at a gallery that wanted to do a show. They dropped me off at home at the exact time Bucky and Steve were heading back from their morning run.

“Hey guys.” I said awkwardly. They probably thought I was insane. I mean I can imagine how weird our fight must’ve looked.

“Hey doll.” Bucky greeted.

“We missed you yesterday.” Steve added.

“Sorry about…everything after brunch was served. Work called, Tony needed help with something that came up last minute.” I said.

“Were you working all night?” Steve asked.

“Not exactly.” I said as we walked upstairs. I made it a point to be as quiet as I could when walking down the hallway.

“He left early.” Bucky said with a smirk. “Said something came up at work.”

“Oh,” I said slightly relieved and slightly guilty.

“I know its probably none of our business but… are you sure you two are really just friends?” Steve asked.

“We’re as platonic as it gets.” I said.

“Doll there’s platonic and then there’s you and Clint.” Bucky said.

“What Buck is getting at is the way you two were fighting yesterday well you two fight like an old married couple.” Steve said.

“We’ve been together for years and we don’t argue like that.” Bucky said.

“It’s just a complicated subject. We’ll be fine.” I said.

“Is that why you’re avoiding each other?” Steve asked.

“We’re not avoiding each other were busy. We’ll talk tonight.” I said going to my room to get some clothes and shower.

I got to school and went about my usual routine. Nate greeted me with an ecstatic hug and kiss.

“Hello to you too.” I said smiling.

“Lacrosse season is finally over.” Nate said.

“I thought you liked lacrosse?” I asked.

“I do but not as much as I like spending time with you. We’ve been dating for two weeks and we’ve only been on one date.” He said.

“We go on dates all the time.” I said.

“Our coffee dates don’t count.” Nate said.

“Then why are they called coffee dates?” I retorted and he stayed quiet.

“They count as half a date because its what we would usually do anyway but we’re in school.” Nate said.

“So technically we’re ahead on the dates.” I said.

“Do anything fun this weekend?” Nate asked.

“Uh, company retreat and stopped by to visit my family in Chicago.” I answered.

“That sounds fun. How about this weekend we go do something?” Nate asked.

“It’s finals weekend.” I reminded him.

“Crap right when’s your last one?” He asked.

“Wednesday but I have three back to back Monday and Wednesday and two essays due Tuesday.” I said remembering the deals I worked out.

“Damn I’m here until Friday morning. Want to do something after?” Nate asked.

“Can’t I promised my dad I’d visit that weekend and since I’m staying here the summer for work I feel bad canceling.” I said.

“We have all summer, we’ll figure it out.” He said pulling me into a side hug.

“Course.” I said.

Class went by smoothly and I did my usual coffee run before getting to work.

“Morning.” I said handing out coffee orders. I place Tony’s in front of him on his worktable and I made sure the ‘I’m sorry’ with a smiley face was facing towards him. I looked at the time and grabbed my bag. “Be back.”

I locked myself in the lab bathroom and got everything ready. I waited for the alarm to go off with the syringe in my hand.

“I can do this, I can do this. It’s just a tiny long sharp pointing thing that’s going inside of me.” I said trying to psych myself up. “I’m a strong independent woman this needle is not going to beat me.” I said before the alarm went off.

“Fuck!” I shouted. It was not or never. Except my hands were shaking and I couldn’t do it. I walked out of the bathroom. “I need one of you to stab me with this needle and drug me.”

Bruce spat out his latte and started coughing.

“What?” Tony said.

“You’re both world renown scientists with a ton of clinical lab experience so I know you both know how to do this. I don’t care which who but I need one of you to give me my shot and it has to be now or this won’t work and I’m gonna have to start all over so please.” I said.

Tony walked over and took the syringe out of my hand.

“Turn and lift up your skirt.” Tony said I did as he said and groaned when I felt the pinch. “You’re good.”

“Thank you.” I said.

“What’s going on here?” Pepper said staring at us. I looked at us and realized how bad this probably looked.

“I needed to give myself a hormone shot but I’m afraid of needles and I was on a time limit so Tony was doing it for me. Thanks again boss.” I said walking away.

“Hormone shot?” Pepper asked confused.

“Follicle growth stimulant.” Tony said.

“You’re trying to get pregnant?” Pepper asked me with a sad look.

“Freezing my eggs.” I said. “Or technically embryos. I’m gonna go get those signatures from medical you needed.”

“Yeah.” Tony said.

“I’ll go with you, I need to go over some things with Helen.” Bruce said. “We could actually use your input.”

“Sure.” I said grabbing my tablet on the way out.  Once we were in the elevator I turned to Bruce. “You don’t really need go talk to Helen do you?”

“No I just did not want to get in the middle of the conversation that’s about to happen.” Bruce said.

“What conversation?” I asked.

“Pepper suspects something.” Bruce said.

“Crap, And then she walked in on… shit.” I said.

“It’s not your fault, this is all Tony.” Bruce said. “Besides She’s seen you two work together long enough to know there’s nothing going on there. How was Chicago?”

“It was nice. It’s been a while since I’ve been home. All of my brothers and my dad were there. We had dinner at home. It was nice.” I said.

“You figure out whatever was bothering you?” Bruce asked.

“Kind of.” I said. “I’ll let you know how that turns out. Actually how long do you think that’s going to be?”

“Uh Tony’s going to try to down play it and Pepper will get fed up or she’ll get called in for a work thing.” Bruce said.

“So Another ten minutes.” I asked.

“Sounds about right.” Bruce said.

Later that Day-

Whatever was said between Tony and Pepper he decided to call it a day at five. Bruce decided to head home early for once too so that left me at home stress baking.

I made everything from cupcakes to brownies and cookies. I finished up with Clint’s favorite double chocolate cake.

“Wow.” Steve said as he walked in.

“I think I love this place even more.” Bucky said.

“Hey guys, Help yourself to some well anything you want.” I said.

“Are those brownies?” Bucky said his eyes lighting up.

“Oh yeah, there’s also chocolate chip cookies and muffins.” I said as I was finishing frosting the cake.

“Well I need to go have a talk with my best friend.” I said picking up the six pack of beer I had also bought on the way home.

“He’s not home yet.” Steve said.

“Exactly.” I said picking up the kid. “I’ll clean up everything when I’m back.”

“What mess the kitchen is spotless?” Bucky said chewing on a cookie. “I think you’re actually neater than Steve.”

I used my spare key and let myself into the apartment. Lucky immediately ran over and started whining for attention.

“Hey buddy.” I said putting the cake on the coffee table and the beer down next to it. “Who’s a good boy?”

“Woof!” He barked.

I sat down and rubbed Lucky’s stomach for a while. It was a minute later that I heard Clint’s familiar footsteps in the hallway.

Here goes nothing.

Clint unlocked the door and walked in before freezing when he saw me sitting on his couch.

“Hey.” I said.

“Hey.” He said not moving. “I called.”

“I know, I wasn’t to talk but we need to.” I said reaching for a beer and offering it to him.

Clint walked forward and took the beer before sitting on the other end of the couch. “Is that double chocolate fudge cake?”

“I got out early and did some baking.” I said.

“I can see that, and smell it. “ He said smiling tensely.

“I didn’t burn anything so that’s a win.” I said.

“Can I just…” He started before sighing and putting his beer down.

“I ran away so I should start.” I said. “I love you. You’re my best friend, my rock and I can’t let you give up your dream.”

“Cal I’m not giving up.” Clint started.

“Yes you are.” I said.

“Cal, I’m not giving up and I’m not settling. You’re not a consolation prize or a last resort. I want to do this for you.” Clint said.

“What about what you want?” I said.

“This is what I want. I want you to be happy, whether its you getting your dream of being the next Bill Gates, Steve Jobs or Tony Stark or to have a family with someone that loves you and your kids. I want that for you.” Clint said holding my hand.

“What about your dream? The wife and kids in that house upstate?” I asked.

“Cal, the house and everything else is what I imagined but that’s not my dream. My dream was to have a family and I already do. I have Will, Josh, and you. I wanted to have kids with someone who would love my kids as much if not more than I would and I know you’d do that and more. I want to do this Cal, if you need me to sign a contract so you’ll know I won’t change my mind later on I will.” He said.

“I don’t deserve you.” I said crying.

“Hey.” He said pulling me into a hug. “You’re the best person I know, you deserve the world. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

“So are you.” I said hugging him. “I’m never going to find anyone as good as you.”

“I’m not that great. I’m a workaholic, can’t ever make a relationship work, I snore.” He said.

“Softly.” I corrected with a slight chuckle.  

“You don’t need someone like me, you need someone that’ll love you and won’t ever stop trying to be worthy of you.” He said holding me close.

“That’s setting the bar really up there.” I said.

“Well you’re endgame goals Cal, whoever you end up with is going to hit the jackpot.” He said.

“You’re goals too. And we still have our deal.” I reminded him.

“You won’t make it to forty single.” Clint said.

“You never know.” I said resting my head on Clint’s chest. “Hey Clint?”

“Hm?” He hummed as he played with my hair.

“Will you make a baby with me?” I asked and I felt him chuckle.

“Yeah Cal I will.” He said kissing my forehead and resting his cheek on the top of my head.

“Also when you’re ready, We can do this all over again and I’ll give you my eggs.” I said.

“Does that include the fighting and running away because if it does then I’m not sure?” He said and I slapped his arm.

“How about we just blame that on the hormone’s side effects?” I asked.

“Works for me.” He said. “So that cake…”

“All yours, from scratch.” I said.

“You’re really not going to make it to forty single.” Clint said.

“You’re not going to make it to forty five single.” I said.

Friday- Egg Retrieval day

We got to the hospital early Friday morning. There was the usual wait time and paperwork. Clint was going to wait until I was in the OR to go downstairs and leave his sample so in the meantime he was just being attentive and trying to get me to relax.

Once we were finally in the room and I was in the gown with the hairnet and everything on a nurse came in to put in an IV. I squeezed Clint’s hand tight but he didn’t complain, just held my hand and told me it was all going to be okay.

Doctor Lahiri came in a little while later.

“Good morning.” She said smiling. “Today’s the big day.” She cheered.

“Yup, gonna freeze the future bun I’m gonna put in my oven.” I said.

“So we’re almost ready to go but there are a few things I need to go over with you before the anesthesiologist gets to you. First off we need to go over the risks again.” She said.

“Potential hemorrhaging, scarring, loss of fertility from the procedure, coma, stroke, heart attack from the anesthesia and death from either or.” I said.

“Wow, you did your research.” Doctor Lahiri said and now Clint was the one squeezing my hand.

“Need you to sign here.” She said handing me a tablet. I quickly signed and she swiped to another file. “You decide on a donor?”

“Yup, this guy.” I said nodding to Clint.

“Really? That’s so sweet.” She gushed. “Nice choice your kids are gonna be cute. Need you to sign consent that you agree to using Clint’s sperm.”

I signed again and Clint signed his consent as well.

“Lastly, medical directives. In the chance anything were to go wrong, who’s your immediate emergency response?” She asked.

“Clint Barton.” I answered.

“If you were to never wake up and remain in a vegetative state what would you like to be done?” She asked and Clint squeezed my hand again.

“I’d like my attorney, Elijah Mikaelson to be contacted. He has a signed and notarized medical directive as well as instructions for any arrangements that need to be made afterwards.” I said.

“If you were to pass away before you were to implant your embryos whose custody should they be turned to?” She asked.

“Clint Barton.” I said.

“Sign on the line.” She said turning the tablet. “That’s everything. They’ll be by to take you in in a bit. Clint whenever you’re ready they’re waiting for you downstairs.”

“Thank you.” We said.

“I’ll see you in there.” Doctor Lahiri said before walking out.

I turned to Clint and saw the frown lines and the concerned look he was giving me.

“Hey, I’m gonna be fine.” I said.

“I didn’t know there were so many risks.” He said.

“Every medical procedure has risks.” I told him. “There’s a small chance of it happening but if it does, I love you, thank you for being the best friend anyone could ever ask for, and please give our kids normal names. No Calliope or Chauncey.”

That made him laugh.

“Any names stick out to you?” He asked.

“Anything you pick is good.” I said. He smiled at me before leaning over to kiss my forehead while he hugged me. Clint didn’t let go until they came to take me in.

“I’ll be here when you wake up.” Clint asked.

“Watch the kinkiest porn they’ve got, you have to get as much as you can out.” I said making the nurses laugh.

“I’ll get them all out Cal.” He said blushing slightly. “I’ll see you in a bit.”

“Have fun.” I said making them laugh again.

They wheeled me down the hall and through some doors before pulling up to the OR. I moved onto the operating table and laid back while the anesthesiologist started drugging me and put a breathing mask on me.

“Count backwards from a hundred.” The anesthesiologist said.

“One hundred, ninety nine… ninety e….ight….. nine….hm.” I mumbled as my eyelids grew heavy and everything went dark.

"Are you ready?" Someone asked before my eyes snapped open.

"I think so." I said and Thor raised his hand making a hammer fly into his hand.

 "Are we?" I asked.

"You do seem to enjoy flying." Thor said with a grin.

"It's a good thing I'm not afraid of heights." I said taking Thor's hand and following him to the roof.

"Hold on tight." Thor said putting an arm around me before spinning the hammer and we flew off.

We were up high in the sky and it was freezing but I couldn't complain about how amazing the wind rushing through my hair felt. We flew away from London and out to the countryside. I lost track of time and before I knew it we were landing.

It was snowing and we were in a forest clearing.

"I'm guessing we're not in London anymore." I said.

"I have done a bit of exploring while you were studying the previous week and discovered that." Thor said pointing at the sky.

"Wow." I said taking in the sight of the northern lights. I didn't even know you could see them from Scotland.

"We have something similar in Asgard, with more colors and a lot more rare. Legends say that the lights were reflections from the shields and armor of the Valkyrie, the fiercest and strongest warriors to have ever lived." Thor said.

"Like Sif?" I asked making Thor chuckle.

"Not like that, though Sif would appreciate the compliment." Thor said. "They were an order of all female warriors that would protect Asgard long ago. They died out but it is believed that they still watch over Asgard's warriors and help the fallen find their way to Valhalla."

"Sounds nice." I said.

"It is also believed to be an omen of good news." Thor said making me smile.

"Ah, there it is." I said realizing where he was going with this. "This is your way of telling me everything's going to be okay."

"I never said that." Thor said "But it will be."

"Thanks." I said hugging him.

"No need. I love you." Thor said.

"Love you too." I said kissing him.

 And then everything changed and suddenly scalding water was pouring over me. My clothes were soaked and stuck to me.

"You're what keeps us together." Natasha said.

"Not true, I wasn't around when Loki invaded Earth and despite your differences you all banded together to save the world. You'll all be together long after I'm gone." I said.

"Hey, you're not going anywhere." Natasha said holding my hand.

"It may not be up to me." I said with a sad smile. "No matter what… I need you to know that meeting you and everyone else has been the best…"

"No." Natasha said giving me a deadly glare. "You don't get to do that."

"Nat you need to listen…" I started.

"No, you are not giving up." Natasha said.

"That's not what…" I said but she interrupted me again.

"Do you have any idea what losing you would do to us? Stark will drink himself to death. Clint will become a hermit, Bruce will hulk out, Steve will tear the world apart looking for Hadrian…" Natasha said starting to ramble. I've never seen her ramble.

"Nat!" I yelled trying to get her to stop talking. "I'm trying to say, ya lyublyu tebya."

"What?" She said surprised.

"It was supposed to be this long and heartfelt speech about how awesome you are and what you mean to me but you kept interrupting me and the only Russian Kol taught me was I love you and pass the fucking vodka you commie bastard." I said and Natasha just stared at me. "Did I say it right?... I just wanted you to know… been planning this for a while… the timings probably not the best… you know just forget I said anything I'll redo this later the right way." I said starting to get up but Natasha grabbed my hand and pulled me into a kiss.

Everything changed again there were fireworks going off outside the window. I was lying on a bed with someone hovering over me. When I finally looked up I saw it was Bruce.

"That was…" Bruce said lifting himself off of me slightly before leaning down for another kiss. It wasn't until we heard all the commotion outside and saw the fireworks that we realized it was midnight.

"Happy New Years." I said not being able to contain my laughter.

"Happy New Years." He said with a smile.

"You're the first guy I ever gave a New Years kiss to." I said making him chuckle.

"I love you Hayley and you were wrong before when you said that being forced to run changed you for the worst. It made you stronger and kinder. If it had changed you like you said you wouldn't have saved Cal, Hanson's family, or me." Bruce said. "Because you do save me everyday just by reminding me of all the good things I tend to over look."

"I love you." I said. "And the big guy too."

Before I was sitting on the floor in front of a fireplace.

"I asked Aggie if there was any way for me to salvage what was left of our first getaway together considering we were sleeping in two separate beds and were in a room that was colder than a freezer. She then told me that was the point and that the best way to stay warm on a cold night was to share body heat." Steve said blushing and I started laughing. I knew I liked her for a reason. "I didn't want to pressure you into anything…"

"Steve I like to cuddle, I sleep better that way. I didn't want to make you uncomfortable." I said.

"I'm not uncomfortable…" He said.

"Steve the one and only time we slept together I practically had to drag into the bed with me and even then you didn't get under the covers." I said. "And I understand that things were different in the forties and the fact that you're so courteous and a complete gentleman which is unheard of these days is one of the things I love about you but I have no idea what I'm supposed to do."

"Doll I've only ever been in one relationship before and I knew Bucky since we were kids. I don't even remember when it all started we figured it out together. I have no idea what I'm doing. Just when I think I have this century figured out and think I know where we're going I realize I don't." Steve said.

"So we're both lost." I said.

"Yeah." Steve said sadly.

"Well, at least we're lost together." I said giving him a smile. "And I think that's better."

"It is?" Steve asked.

"Yeah, it means we get to figure it out together." I said

"I love you." He said.

Everything changed yet again and the lighting was dimmed but the view outside the window was amazing. It was almost as if I was in the Eiffel tower.

I have to ask why is it not a date?" Tony asked.

"Tony you didn't even know who I was back then." I said.

"And?" He retorted.

"You were only interested in me because I figured out the trick to your program." I said.

"So I was interested in you because you were smart." Tony said.

"Tony we can't even have a normal job interview, ours ended at a strip club." I said.

"Hales nothing about any of us is normal. Besides why would you want normal you're extraordinary. You can stop the Hulk from going on a rampage and turn him back to Bruce. You can make Romanoff smile, like a real smile. You can hack into any database on the planet faster than any person or even Jarvis. So it's kind of fitting that our first date not be normal." Tony said. "And if that isn't enough to convince you just think about it like this the whole point of a date is to get to know a person to see if their someone you'd want to see more. On that date slash interview I gave you one hundred percent genuine Tony Stark. The snark, eccentricity etc… most of the time it takes me months before I even start to open up but not with you… you cracked me wide open. So tell me if that wasn't a date?"

Damn he was good.

"It was date like." I said.

"Why can't you give me one!?" Tony groaned.

"Someone has to keep your ego in check." I said before getting up and walking over to him. "Happy anniversary Tony." I said before kissing him.

"I win." He said before kissing me again.

"And what's the prize supposed to be?" I asked.

"That I get to give you a gift and you take it without complaining." He said handing me a jewelry box.

"Tony…" I started.

"Ah, no complaints open it." He said.

"Please tell me you didn't buy me something freakishly expensive." I said.

"Hales, It's my money and I want to spend it on you so take it." Tony said.

"Uh I feel like I'm mooching off of you." I complained.

"Calliope Chauncey Adams you are not mooching." Tony said surprising me with the use of my old name.

"I thought we agreed not to bring CC up ever." I said giving him a look.

"Had to get you to listen somehow." He said looking at the box that was now in my hand.

I opened it and saw that it was a bracelet. A gold cuff. I picked it up and took a closer look at it. everyone's call sign symbols were engraved onto it and inside was a bird like the one from my necklace.

"What do you think?" Tony asked.

"I like it." I admitted.

"It also has the same tech as my watch so it'll read your vitals." He said slipping it on.

"You have good taste. Thank you." I said.

"Glad you liked it." He said.

After we finished up we went back to the hotel. As soon as we were inside Tony slipped off his jacket and tie. I went to go take in the view from the balcony, which was even better at night.

"We still haven't toasted." Tony said coming over with two glasses and a bottle of champagne.

"You pulled out all the stops didn't you." I said noticing how his phone was playing soft music.

"Of course I did. It's a huge milestone for me. We made it a year and I didn't screw it up." Tony said.

"Sweetie let's face it if anyone's going to screw up what we have here it'd be me." I said.

"You're a great boyfriend. I still can't get over how it's been a year already."

"Best year ever though." Tony said.

"There were a few bumps." I reminded him.

"But we got through them. No actor's pretending to be terrorist, killer science experiment gone, crazy ex girlfriends, Psycho older brothers or assassin in laws managed to keep us apart." Tony said.

"How the hell am I still alive after all that?" I said laughing.

"You're stronger than you think Hales." He said kissing my cheek before handing me a glass and raising his own. "Here's to us, come what may as long as we have each other I know we'll be okay. I love you baby, thank you for making me the happiest man in the world."

"Thanks for being an eccentric tenacious knuckle head that doesn't give up and does things on a whim. I love you Tony." I said.

Then I was in a house. The floorboard creaked as I walked around.

"What do you think?" I asked and Clint just looked lost for words.

"It's uh it could use some work." He said. "It's big though."

"Yeah, and the kitchen could use an upgrade, floral tile counters, yikes." I said. "I think I saw one of those restaurants but for your kitchen on pinterest, Breakfast knooks. It would go really good in there."

"So why did we drive for hours to come here?" Clint asked confused.

"Because it's yours." I said throwing him the keys. He caught the keys before looking at me confused.

"What?" he said not sure he had heard right.

"Merry Christmas." I said with a smile. "This house and the land it's on are yours."

"You bought me a house?" Clint asked.

"Technically it's a farm but it hasn't been used for that in years but yeah." I said.

"You bought me a house?" he said again.

"I know it's not the Taj Mahal and it could use some work, but it's has a lot of potential and some good bones." I said knocking on the wall only for the dry wall to break. "Okay it needs a lot of work."

"Wow just uh, why?" Clint asked.

"Months ago when we were in London I made you a promise that when this was all over we would sit down and talk about our future and what happens next. The whole thing with Hadrian still isn't handled but we're working on it and I'm sure he'll get what's coming to him but that doesn't mean we have to put our life on hold. I meant it before when I said that I wanted a future with you, the bickering, the chores, kids and dogs running around, coming home to each other everything else. I used to dream about a life like that and you and everyone else made that my reality but you made me believe that was actually possible for me. I love you Clint." I said. "I…"

I started before he cut me off by kissing me.

It all changed again and I wasn’t in the house anymore I was on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

He stood there watching each of my movements with sharp steel blue eyes. He looked ready to attack at a moments notice. His metal arm shined as the sunlight bounced off of it, the red star standing out against the silver metal plates. He wasn't wearing a mask so I could see how emotionless he was.

"Hi." I said but he didn't say anything or reacted. "You don't know who I am but I know who you are and I don't mean what they made you be. You've been through a lot, more than anyone should ever have to go through. I'm really sorry that this happened to you and I'm also sorry you got dragged into my mess but I promise you it's going to be over really soon. There's someone out there who's loved you for a really long time and he's going to get you back. Take care of him for me, someone has to keep that punk out of trouble."

I took a step forward and put a hand on his cheek. He flinched but didn't move back.

"I'm glad I got to meet you, Bucky." I said before he quickly grabbed me by my neck with his flesh hand and lifted me up. I put my hands on his arm trying to get him to loosen his grip but he just kept walking to the ledge.

"I-It's okay." I said as he took out his gun out. I quickly jabbed the syringe into his arm.

"Ah!" he cried out angrily before a loud gunshot rang out. I felt a sharp pain in my stomach. I pressed on it and sure enough I was bleeding. He tightened his grip on my neck before he let go and I fell into the ice-cold water.

“Ah.” I gasped as I opened my eyes. The first thing I noticed was the hospital bed railing.

“Cal, you’re okay.” Clint reassured brushing some hair out of my face before reaching over to the table and offering me some water.

“Is it over?” I asked.

“Yeah, you’ve been out for about an hour.” Clint said.

“I had a really weird dream, you were in it, Natasha, Bruce, Tony, Thor, Steve… Bucky.” I said shivering slightly.

“Probably the anesthesia.” Clint said.

“Yeah. How’d things go with you? Watch any good porn?” I said as I smirked. Clint chuckled and shook his head.

“Hey, just wanted to check in. How are you feeling Callie?” Doctor Lahiri said.

“A little floaty.” I said.

“That’s probably you working off the last bit of anesthesia.” She said.

“Everything okay?” Clint asked holding my hand.

“Everything went really well. We managed to get eighteen eggs.” She said.

“Eighteen?” Clint and I said surprised.

“You’re really fertile Callie. We still need to see how many are going to develop after they’re fertilized but it’s looking really good.” She said.

“That’s awesome.” I said smiling.

“So, I printed out instructions for when you get out. You’re going to have to take it easy today and tomorrow the worst of it should have passed. Expect some cramping and bloating. Light spotting is also really common but if it’s more than that you need to come in right away.” She said. “Any questions?”

“I’m good.” I said.

“Okay you can start getting dressed someone will be by with your discharge papers.” She said.

“Thank you.” I said before she left.

I quickly got dressed and got my discharge forms before going home. Clint decided to take the whole weekend off and Tony was making me do the same. Of course Clint was waiting on me hand and foot and insisted and not move at all.

“I got you your tea, food’s on its way. You need to stay warm to help with the cramping.” He said draping a blanket over me.

“Clint I’m fine. Sit down already.” I said grabbing his hand and pulling him down.

“You sure cause I can heat up some soup.” He said.

“Just sit down and cuddle so I can stay warm.” I said.

“Okay.” He said putting an arm around me. “Is Nate gonna stop by?”

“Considering he doesn’t know about any of this and he thinks I’m in Chicago no.” I said.

“You didn’t tell him?” Clint said surprised.

“Why would I tell him? We’ve only been a couple officially for two weeks. I don’t think were at that point where we can start talking about how many kids we want in the future.” I said.

“So you’re not going to tell him?” Clint said.

“I don’t think it would matter to him besides I like Nate, I really do but he’s my first boyfriend and it’s rare that anyone actually ends up with their first boyfriend. I’m gonna see where this goes but it’s not like I’m ever gonna marry him” I said.

Six and a Half Months Later- New Years Eve

Nate had picked me up and we headed to a rooftop club near Times Square his friend Chuck had opened up. We were gonna celebrate our first new years together. We’d been together seven months and things were perfect. I traveled over the summer and Nate would fly out from wherever he was to visit. We had even gone all the way and had sex for the first time that summer in Paris. That was… well it was okay.

“You think a rooftop bar would have an elevator that went all the way to the roof.” I said as I walked up the stairs in gold strappy heels to complement the maroon bodycon dress I was wearing.

“It’s a trial run.” Nate said smiling. “I can carry you the rest of the way, I know your heels must be bothering you.”

“I love you. But if Will’s coming I’m gonna have to take you up on that later.” I said kissing him.

“Just one more set of stairs.” Nate said.

“It’s a good thing I do a lot of cardio.” I said walking up with him. When we got to the top we walked through the doorway but the roof was empty. Instead there were lights in crystal glasses spread out along the floor of the entire roof and some greenery spread out along the edges there were tables and a bar set up but no one else was there. Suddenly acoustic guitar started playing.  

“Nate what’s going on?” I asked.

“I didn’t lie about Chuck owning this place or about it not being open yet but what I didn’t say was that I actually reserved this place for the night. Cal the past six and a half months have been amazing and I’ve never been so happy. I love you. A lot is changing with you graduating two weeks ago and me finishing law school in June and those are all good changes but I was wondering if you’d want to make one more change. As we start the next chapter of our lives I want to ask you if you’d do it as my wife.” He said reaching into his pocket and getting down on one knee and opening the ring box. “Callie Gerard will you marry me?”

“Yes!” I said tearing up as I Nate smiled and slid the ring on my finger before kissing me and lifting me up in a huge hug.

People started coming out of hiding behind the stage curtains and cheered as they congratulated us.

I couldn’t stop smiling but that didn’t stop that voice in the back of my head from repeating the same thing over and over again the entire night.

This is wrong, This isn’t supposed to happen, Don’t do this, WAKE UP!!!!