Fated Marks

The Next Day-

I walked into work determined to talk to Tony, to try and figure out what was going on between us before deciding anything else. Of course we had meetings all day so that was going to be a bit tricky.

“Morning.” I said.

“Morning.” Tony and Bruce greeted.

“Coffees.” I said dropping them off at their desks.

“You look nice.” Tony said eying me up and down. I was wearing a fitted black scoop neck top with a tan and black midi pencil skirt with a slit and tan high heels I was going to regret wearing later.

“Thanks but so should you. You have meetings all day.” I said.

“I have time.” Tony said.

“You have Twenty minutes and I’ve seen how long it takes you to pick out a suit, go.” I said.

“They can wait.” Tony said.

“The meetings with Pepper and the CFO.” I said.

“I should probably go get ready.” Tony said picking up his coffee. “You’re going to be there right?”

“I did dress up for it.” I said.

“You’re the best.” He said kissing my cheek before running out.

“Did he just…?” Bruce asked.

“He’s probably buzzed.” I said.

“Actually he didn’t drink at all last night, or yesterday.” Bruce said.

“Really? Not even a glass of scotch?” I asked.

“Nope, did he tell you anything when you both went out?” He asked.

“No, we drank a bit and then we worked.” I said.

The day was long and the meetings were so boring. Tony felt the same and I had to kick his leg a few times to keep him awake.

Our last meeting ended around six and we still hadn’t gotten a chance to talk so I texted Nate that I was staying late. I was expecting him to say something but he wished me luck and asked me to call when I got home.

Bruce decided to call it an early night since he had his first meeting with Betty and their lawyers early in the morning so it was just Tony and me.

“How’d the talk go with Nate?” Tony asked.

“He didn’t want to hear it. He said if I could forgive his screw up he could forgive mine. All he cares about is that we’re getting married.” I said.

“Is that what you want?” Tony asked.

“It used to be now I don’t know.” I said. “What do you want?”

“What do you mean?” Tony asked.

“Tony you kissed me first? Was that just a heat of the moment thing or… something else?” I said.

“I care about you, a lot more than I probably should.” Tony said.

“So you want a relationship?” I asked confused.

“No, I’m in the middle of a divorce I’m not ready and I don’t think that’s for me.” he said.

“Then what the hell is this?” I asked.

“What was it to you?” Tony asked getting closer.

“Something that shouldn’t… have happened.” I said as he put his hands on my waist. “And doesn’t make sense,” I said as Tony brushed hair off my shoulder before kissing my neck. “Mh…” I moaned as he sucked on just the right spot. “What are you doing?”

“We had a long day and you’re tense. We could use some stress relief.” He said kissing and nipping my neck.

“We shouldn’t… uh.” I moaned. “I’m trying to have a serious… talk.”

“What’s there to talk about?” Tony said.

“I’m engaged… getting married to a… Nate.” I stuttered.

“You asked me what this was, well, we’re two people, friends, who understand each other.” Tony said nipping my neck as his hands slowly moved down my body. “Who give each other what they need, whether it’s someone to listen to… advice or some relief.”

“That’s all?” I asked.

“Don’t overthink it,” Tony said kissing behind my ear slowly moving a hand under my skirt. “Just go with what feels right.”

I shouldn’t… I really shou… “Ah.” I gasped as Tony nibbled on my earlobe. How could something so wrong feel so right?

I turned my head and put a hand behind Tony’s head to pull him into a kiss. He slipped a hand under my skirt, the other following as he moved up slowly. We slowly moved backwards until I bumped into a lab table.

Tony lifted one of my legs over his hip before he lifted me up onto the table. I wrapped my legs around him and held him close as I continued kissing him. I threaded my fingers through his hair as he moving his fingers up to my underwear. He started tugging before I heard a snap.

“I’ll buy you new ones, I’m good for it.” Tony said and I laughed. I lifted my hips up a bit and slipped off what was left of the garment before reaching down to Tony’s belt. I quickly undid his pants and pushed them down.

Tony put a hand on the back of my neck and pulled me into a kiss and stroked himself a few times before lining up. His head rubbed along my slit until he stopped to make sure I was okay with this. I wrapped my legs around him and pushed my heels against his ass. He held my hip and slammed in.

“Ah!” I gasped before he pulled out half way and thrusted upward going deeper. “Yes!”

“Mh, Fuck.” Tony groaned into my neck and he pounded into me fast and hard.

“Ah.” I moaned as he pounded into me.

“Cal.” He groaned nipping at my neck. He leaned a bit forward, wrapping his armed around me as he kept moving.

“Shit.” I cried out as I felt myself get close. I tightened my grasp on Tony’s hair as he tightened his hold on my hip and kissed on my neck.

“Yes fuck Cal, you’re so good baby. So tight on me, getting even tighter uh.” He said bucking his hips wildly.

“Tony fuck!” I moaned as I came and he kept pounding into me.

“Mh, Yes Uh!” He cried out as he spilled inside of me. A few sharp thrusts grinding against just the right spots and he was done. He pressed his head against my chest as we both panted. I held him as I ran my fingers through his hair making him moan.

“We should probably…” I said.

“In a minute.” He said catching his breath. Once we were good he pulled out and helped me down.

“This… It’s… Uh.” I groaned.

“Stop.” Tony said. “Breath in.”

“Tony I’m fine.” I said.

“Cal.” He said putting a hand on my shoulder. “Just take a minute and breathe.”

I stopped and closed my eyes before taking a deep breath.

“Do you regret this?” Tony asked.

“That’s not it. I don’t regret it which is probably worse.” I said picking at my fingers. “Maybe my mom is right. I do screw everything up.”

“Oh hell no.” Tony said. “Cal you do not screw everything up. You keep me and Bruce running. You vouched for a complete stranger who Bruce and I had already said no to and he ended up being our biggest success story, You single handedly looked at the books and talked the CFO of one of the biggest fortune five hundred companies to donate medical equipment to Syrian refugee camps because of a tax loophole no one had ever heard of. You keep this lab running, you are anything but a screw up.”

“Doesn’t change the fact that I cheated on my fiancé less than a month before our wedding.” I said. “I guess I don’t feel guilty about sleeping with you, I feel guilty for doing this to Nate.”

“Are you going to tell him?” Tony asked.

“I tried. He didn’t let me get a word out, just said that whatever it was it probably wasn’t as bad as when he screwed up so he forgave me.” I said.

“No matter what I’m with you, if it’s as friends or friends with benefits…” Tony started.

“I’m not going to use you for stress relief. You’re more than a sex toy even if you are really good at it.” I said.

“It’s not using if I want to too.” Tony said.

“Not helping.” I said.

“Don’t tell Nate.” Tony said.

“Tony I can’t lie to my fiancé, that’s not the way to start a marriage.” I said.

“Cal, all good relationships are built on lies. Nate still thinks that the sex you two have is great because you’ve been faking orgasms for months.” Tony said.

“You lied to your wife constantly and you’re getting divorced.” I said.

“Because we both gave up on our marriage but we had a good run.” Tony said.

“I don’t want a temporary husband. I want… I want a best friend who will do the most random things just to get me smile on a bad day. Who will go all the way to Jersey for cannoli’s when I’m PMSing. Who’ll cuddle with me on the couch because it’s nice to be held. Who will actually remember what my favorite flowers are and when he happens to go to Trader Joes and sees them and he just happens to buy them because he knows how much I like them.” I said.

“Does Nate do any of that?” Tony asked.

“No but Clint does.” I said. “If my best friend does all of that why the hell can’t my future husband?”

Tony just laughed.

“What’s so funny?” I asked.

“How sometimes we can’t see the prefect thing has been in front of us the entire time no matter how obvious it can be.” Tony said.

“What does that have to do with anything?” I asked.

“You’ll figure it out.” Tony said. “Come on, I’ll drive you home.”

Two Weeks Later-

Well I was no longer a teenager, I was twenty. I beat teenage pregnancy. Even the cake Josh made me with a chocolate baby that Will supervised said so. Nate was finishing up an assignment at the library while Nat, Thor, Steve and Bucky set up the roof. Nate wanted a party but I just wanted a simple dinner party with my friends.

I finished getting ready. I put my hair up in an intricate bun before finishing up my makeup. I put on some bronze drop earrings before slipping on a nude one sleeved mini dress with a beaded shoulder.

I slipped on my heels before heading to the living room.

“Mh, something smells amazing.” I said peeking into the kitchen.

“Oh no you don’t.” Josh said.

“What?” I said.

“You walk in here you’re going to want to help and it’s your birthday go grab a glass of wine and relax upstairs.” Josh said.

“What if I don’t want to help what if I want to sneak a taste of my cake?” I said.

“That’s an even bigger no.” Josh said.

“Cal you better not be trying to help cook your own birthday dinner.” Will said.

“Nope just trying to sneak a taste of my cake.” I said.

“Oh trust me it is amazing kind of like you in that dress damn.” Will said.

“Why thank you.” I said.

“Come on, we’re done setting up and as the birthday girl you have guests to greet and drinks to well drink.” Will said.

“Guess I better get up there then.” I said heading out to the stairs.

“Okay forget about the roof as you know it and say hello to… the rooftop lounge of your dreams.” Will said opening the roof access doors to reveal the twinkle and white lantern decorated rooftop with a long table decorated with wildflowers and candles.

“This is amazing.” I said.

“We knew you wanted something simple and intimate.” Steve said.

“Though I think that last part was with Nate.” Bucky said making everyone laugh.

“Well I love it.” I said.

“I brought the music!” Thor cheered coming in with a speaker and stereo. “Odin’s beard… Cal you look beautiful.”

“Odin’s beard? You switching to mythology?” I asked.

“I have recently taken an interest in my heritage.” Thor said staring at me in awe.

“Well you got all the good ones, Thor, Loki, Frigga, Odin,” I said.

“Hello?” Tony said walking in with Bruce.

“Hey guys.” I said.

“Hi.” Bruce said awkwardly.

“I’m glad you guys could make it and that you actually got out of the lab.” I said.

“It’s your birthday no working.” Tony said.

“He’s right.” Will said. “No working, now take your drink. Every time you three mention work you’re taking a shot.”

“Sure but where should we put our gif…” Tony started and I glared at him.

“Tony.” I said.

“It’s your birthday. I get all my friends gifts on their birthdays.” Tony said reaching into his jacket pocket and pulling out a tiffany blue box.

“Wow.” Will said.

“Can I be your friend?” Natasha asked.

“Tony.” I said.

“No take backs. It’s your birthday and twenty is a big deal.” He said.

“I’m almost afraid to open it.” I said.

“I’ll do it.” Will said reaching for the box but I pulled it away.

“No I’ll do it.” I said slowly undoing the ribbon and slowly opening the box. “Whoa!” Inside the box was a pair of diamond earrings each probably the size of my engagement ring with a tiny line of diamonds they were connected to.

Natasha’s eyes were wide open and Will actually screamed a bit while clutching his chest.

I heard Bucky whistle. “Damn.”

“Tony I can’t.” I said.

“Yes you can. I insist.” Tony said. “It’s not like I can wear them. Besides you can wear them at your wedding.”

“I… thank you.” I said hugging him.

“Happy Birthday Cal.” Tony said hugging me back.

“This is also for you.” Bruce said. “I promise it was not an outrageously expensive gift.”

“I appreciate that.” I said taking the frame and gently unwrapping it. “Oh no way. Is this…”

“It is, you always said you liked how your DNA looked so I saved the image and had it framed.” Bruce said.

“Thank you, this is totally going over my bed.” I said hugging him.

“Hey, sorry I’m late.” Nate said walking in.

“No you’re just in time.” I said.

“Hey babe.” Nate said coming over and giving me a kiss on the cheek. “Happy birthday. I brought you your favorite.”

“Roses.” I said trying to seem excited. Well he remembered my birthday and it’s the thought that counts. “Thanks babe.”

“I also got you a little something.” He said handing me a gift bag.

“Aw you didn’t have to.” I said opening it and reaching in to feel a bunch of cards. I reached into them and grabbed one. “Business cards.”

“Not just any cards.” Nate said flipping the card over. “Business cards with your married name on them.”

“Calliope C. Archibald.” I read. “Nate this is really sweet of you but I thought we talked about this.”

“We did but you can always change your mind.” Nate said.

“Thanks but I’m pretty set on keeping Gerard as my name.” I said putting the gift bag down and going to put the flowers in a vase on the table.

“Okay everything’s up here but the cake which we’ll grab later.” Josh said coming up placing the last dish.

“Hi sorry I’m late.” Clint said running in.

“Just in time we were about to sit down for dinner.” Josh said.

“Happy Birthday.” Clint said hugging me and kissing the side of my head. “You look beautiful.”

“Aw thank you.” I said blushing slightly.

“These are for you.” Clint said handing me a bouquet of peonies.

“My favorite!” I cheered forgetting that Nate was behind me. “These aren’t in season for another month.”

“Owner of the house I’m working on has a greenhouse. Her bush started blooming early and I asked for a few.” Clint said.

“I love them.” I said.

“Hey man.” Nate said coming over to my side and putting an arm around my waist.

“Hey.” Clint said pulling out a small box from his jean pocket. “Oh before I forget, I got you a little something. It’s not much, homemade actually.”

“I love homemade gifts.” I said taking it and opening the box. Inside was a gold chain with an arrow pendant. “You did not make this.”

“I did. I mean not the chain but the pendant is made from metal scraps. I reshaped then and tada.” He said.

“Clint that’s amazing.” I said. “And eco friendly thank you.” I said hugging him.

“Glad you liked it.” he said hugging me.

“You mind helping me?” I asked.

“Sure.” Clint said taking the necklace and helping me put it on.

“Guys food’s getting cold.” Will said.

“Yeah.” I said giving Clint one last smile before going to sit down.

When we finally finished eating and cut the teen pregnancy cake we all sat around laughing and drinking. Nate was a bit withdrawn but he was probably tired so I didn’t think anything of it.

Third Person’s POV-

The team and Will were sitting at the counter having breakfast.

“You guys… remember what today is?” Steve asked.

“Hayley’s name day.” Thor said.

“Finally twenty.” Tony said.

“She beat teen pregnancy.” Will said and everyone looked at him confused. “It’s a joke… play on words…”

“She never wanted to celebrate it.” Natasha said. “Had to make excuses to treat her to things the weeks leading up to it.

“I found out because the batmobile got delivered that morning.” Will said.

“That’s the day Adler found her.” Clint said and everyone stopped smiling.

“We should do something.” Bruce said.

“Bit hard to throw a party when the birthday girl’s in a coma.” Tony said.

“But we’re not.” Will said. “We can hang out in her room. Eat.”

“Watch star wars. She could never stay awake until the end.” Steve said.

“We can decorate the room too.” Natasha said.

“Jarvis order all of Hayley’s favorites,” Tony said. “If this is the last birthday we get to celebrate with her we should do it right.”

“We still have time.” Clint said.

“We know the base is somewhere in Eastern Europe its only a matter of time before we find it and once we do that’s it.” Tony said.

“Until then she still has a chance.” Steve said.

“We should start getting ready to head out.” Bruce said putting his hand in his pocket trying to keep the other guy calm.

A Week Later-

“Okay so you have a ten o’clock meeting with your lawyer followed by a lunch meeting with those start up guys, the three stooges.” I said.

“Those guys are hilarious.” Tony said.

“And they actually let you call them that to their faces.” I said smiling.

“You’re in a good mood.” Bruce said.

“Of course I am, Tomorrow’s foodie day.” I said.

“You mean your monthly date with Clint?” Tony asked.

“Food adventures and errands which is dropping off and picking up Lucky at the vet’s for his teeth cleaning and going to my final dress fitting.” I said.

“Clint’s going with you to your dress fitting?” Bruce asked.

“He’s my best friend, I could use a guy’s opinion and we run errands. This counts as an errand.” I said.

“And Nate’s okay with this?” Tony asked.

“Tony I’m a grown woman, I don’t have to let him know where I’m going to be at all hours of the day, what I’m doing or who I’m with.” I said.

“I was just asking.” Tony said putting his hands up in a gesture of no harm

“Also we share a calendar so he knows I have a fitting tomorrow.” I said. “The rest is just details.”

“Sure, is that the necklace Clint gave you?” Tony asked. I put a hand on the pendant.

“It matches my outfit.” I said letting go of it. So maybe I did love the necklace a lot. It happened to match everything I wore and it was special because it was a very thought out gift given to me by one of my most favorite people in the entire world.

The next morning I woke up to the smell of Steve’s cinnamon French toast. I got out of bed and headed straight for the kitchen.

“Bucky whatever you did to make Steve want to make cinnamon French Toast do it more often.” I said sitting down at the table.

“Mh I know.” Bucky said taking a bite.

“Someone had a good night.” Clint said walking in.

“You know I cook all the time right, not just when we… fondue.” Steve said.

“Yeah but you tend to go all out when you’re very happy.” I said.

“Mh, speaking of, I have a few ideas for lunch.” Clint said. “Since we’re going to be on the east side we can go try a ramen burger and then go that dessert bar place with the cookies and cornflake ice cream.”

“Milk bar.” I said.

“That’s the one.” Clint said.

“Perfect.” I said. “It’s a nice day we can even take Lucky for a walk in the park after his appointment.”

“Wow.” Bucky said. “You two are practically an old married couple.”

“Well we do have kids together.” I said.

“A bus load.” Clint said.

“We can start our own soccer team.” I said.

“The Hawkeyes.” Clint said.

“With purple uniforms.” I said.

“You two think about that way too much.” Steve said.

“It’s not like we have them named.” I said.

We finished up eating and since Steve had cooked Clint and I cleaned up. When we were done I went to go get dressed. It was a nice day so I picked out a grey sleeveless top with some blue skinny jeans and black heeled sandals.

I grabbed my purse and locked up. Clint had lucky on his leash and was ready to go. We got in the car and settle Lucky securely in the back. Our first stop was to the vets to drop off Lucky.  After that we headed of to the appointment. Normally Nat or Will would come with me but they all had things to do.

“It’s probably hard to walk in something like that.” Clint said looking at a huge ball gown that was on display.

“Heavy too.” I said. “Which is why girls are stronger than guys, we put up with more and we look good doing it.”

“Can’t argue with you there.” Clint said smiling.

“Miss Gerard, it’s good to see you. Can I get you anything? Water? Coffee? Champagne?” The receptionist said.

“No thank you.” I said.

“Callie.” Vera said walking over to us.

“Hi Vera.” I greeted.

“Are you excited to try on your dress?” She asked.

“I am.” I said.

“Have you lost weight?” Vera asked.

“Everyone’s been asking me that.” I said.

“You have lost a bit of weight.” Clint said looking concerned.

“Must be all the running.” I said.

“Well, if you’ll follow me, I’ll take you to the fitting room.” Vera said. “Are you…”

“Yeah, he’s my second opinion today.” I said.

“Well, follow me.” Vera said leading us inside. Clint said in the bench outside of the fitting room while the seamstress helped me get into my dress. It was still a bit loose but held on.

“We’re going to have to have it taken in a bit. You’ve lost weight since the last time.” She said.

“I’ve been eating same as I always do. I’ve been running a lot but I eat more too.” I said.

“It’s probably stress. You just need to relax.” She answered.

“Easier said than done.” I said as she zipped me up. She moved to open up the curtains and Clint looked up from his phone. His eyes widened and I think there were actual tears in his eyes.

“Cal you… you look beautiful.” Clint said wiping his hand down his face.

“Not too poofy?” I asked.

“No it’s… it’s perfect.” He said giving me a small smile.

“I swear if…” I started.

“That’s the dress? Why is it so loose?” Mother said appearing out of nowhere.

“Mother?! What are you doing here?” I asked.

“Making sure everything is going off without a hitch for our big day.” She said with a huge smile.

“You brought the handyman?” She asked me.

“Contractor.” Clint corrected but she ignored him.

“My best friend Clint, he came with me today because Will and Natasha couldn’t.” I said.

“That’s what I’m here for. Have you been slacking off. The wedding is in two weeks and that dress is nowhere near the perfection you’re being paid for.” Mother said.

“Mother. I lost weight and the dress needs to be taken in a bit. That’s all.” I said giving her a glare.

“I just need to adjust it.” The seamstress reassured her.

“I’d hope so.” She said.

“I’ll just move to the light so you can do what you need.” I said giving her an apologetic smile. She quickly applied the pins and helped me out of the dress so I can get dressed.

Once I was out I could see Mother eying Clint who was clenching his hands into fists.

“Well that’s it.” I said. “Thanks for coming…”

“And where do you think you’re going?” Mother said.

“I have plans, errands to run.” I said.

“Your future mother in law is expecting us for lunch.” She said.

“Well I wasn’t told and I have a prior engagement.” I said.

“Calliope the Archibald’s and their extended family are going to be your family soon. You should be spending more time with them instead of gallivanting with the help.” Mother said.

I took Clint’s hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze.  

“Mother I was taught to never show up uninvited. It’s very unpleasant to have unwantedcompany in one’s home.” I said. “And for the record my friends are my family too. You’d do well to remember that.”

With that I pulled Clint away with me and walked out leaving my mother fuming.

“Are you sure she wasn’t the one that adopted you instead of Marcel? Because you are completely different.” Clint said.

“You always know just the right thing to say.” I said smiling at him.

“Come on. Let’s go get us a ramen burger.” Clint said.

“Yum.” I said walking with him.

Third Person’s POV-

Natasha quietly snuck into the hospital without anyone noticing like she always did. She hated being in the hospital more than anyone. Not just because of her upbringing but also because of why she had to come. As much as she hated coming here, she knew it would be soon when she would have stop and that was worse than anything the red room ever did to her.

She walked into the room and closed the door behind her before walking closer to Hayley’s bed.

“Hi.” She said. “I’m a little early this week but something came up at work.”

Hayley was still. The only movement was her chest rising and falling as she breathed.

“I have to go… I have a lead I’m going to check out. It might turn into something or it might not but it’s better to be safe than sorry. I’m going alone but don’t worry I’ll check in regularly with Jarvis.” Natasha said. “I’m not… good at this… saying goodbye. You tried to tell me and I never let you.”

Natasha stopped to wipe a stray tear from her face.

“I know it’s a long shot but finding you always was.” Natasha said. “If you can hear me, wake up. We need you… I need you.”

Calliope’s POV-

“So the board meeting is in six hours, your reports are done.” I said.

“The quarter is over in five, four, three, two, one!” Bruce started. When he got to one ACDC started playing and Tony popped a bottle of champagne.

“As of this moment we have officially completed the most productive and profitable quarter in this division’s history. We also happen to be the most productive in all of Stark industries.” Tony said handing us each champagne flutes.

“And just because of that I’m okay with drinking before five.” I said taking my flute.

“Agreed.” Bruce said. “To the special projects division of R and D.”

“To the first of many highly profitable quarters.” I said.

“To Cal for getting us to this point.” Tony said.

“Hey it was a team effort, and you guys kept me going through all the drama that was my engagement.” I said.

“Are you ready for the big day?” Bruce said.

“Pretty much. Just need Clint to get back to me with his RSVP for the final head count and to enjoy this calm and relaxing bridal shower weekend. I finally talked Will down into just a simple brunch.” I said before the elevator dinged.

“About that…” Tony started

“Who’s ready for the best bachelorette weekend in history!?” Will cheered.

“Will?” I asked confused.

“Surprise!” Tony said.

“What’s going on?” I asked.

“You’ve been working to hard and we decided that you need a break.” Will said.

“You really have.” Bruce said.

“So I’m flying you and all of your friends to an all expense paid weekend in Vegas. Will has my card and already planned everything.” Tony said.

“Tony you didn’t.” I said.

“I did, and you’re going. Jet’s waiting.” I said.

“Jet?” Will asked.

“Your jet?” I asked.

“Of course you really thought I was going to make you fly commercial. I’m insulted.” Tony said teasing me.

“We have a board meeting.” I said.

“I have a board meeting you have one weekend to say goodbye to single life.” Tony said.

“I can’t just leave.” I said.

“Bloody hell Cal just say thank you.”Rebekah said.

“Bekah!” I said running to hug my sister. “What are you doing here?”

“Your boss sent a jet for me. Decided to come a bit early and spend some time with my favorite sister.” Rebekah said.

“You did that for me?” I asked Tony.

“I helped.” Will said.

“Course I did. You’re my best friend, you deserve that and more.” Tony said.

“Aww, thank you.” I said hugging him. He hugged me back before letting go.

“Go straight to the airport, buy whatever you need in Vegas on me and have fun.” Tony said.

“But…” I started.

“You heard the man.” Will said.

“Vegas awaits.” Rebekah said pulling me with them.

“See you Monday.” I said.

Third Person’s POV-

It was the middle of the night and like most nights his dream ended the same. A girl with bright green eye smiling at him before he shoots her. A tear slips down her face and then her lets her fall.

He used to wake up screaming but after months of waking up Steve and feeling guilty he learned to control it. He woke up with a quiet gasp that didn’t make Steve stir at all.

Bucky looked over at him.

‘He must’ve come in at some point.’ He thought.

Bucky got up and got dressed before going out for a walk. He walked for a while before ending up at the last place he expected.

He debated going in for a minute before deciding to stop being a coward and face things head on.

He took the back stairs and avoided being seen by anyone before sneaking into the room.

It had been months since he was last here and everything looked almost the same. There were more flowers than last time and photos placed around. The blanket on the bed was patterned and looked a lot warmer than the normal hospital blankets. There were also photos put around the room. Some she was with Will. There was a group photo and then more of her with her soulmates on dates and outings.

“Hey.” Bucky said shifting from one foot to the other. “I don’t know what everyone else talks about when they’re here. Steve says he tells you about his day.”

Bucky stayed quiet.

“I guess I should start by apologizing for not visiting. Didn’t think you’d want me to. Steve said I should when I was ready. Natasha called me a dumbass for thinking that. She might be right. Will said that you would always do whatever it takes to keep the people you cared about safe. I used to be like that, at least that’s what Steve says. I remember everything from before but it’s like watching a movie about someone else. That guy… he deserved you. I don’t, Steve doesn’t either and I’m sorry you paid the price for that.” Bucky said.

“I can’t change what I did, what I’ve done but I can try to make amends. I started working with the team a few months ago. I’m trying to help where I can. Stop Hydra from hurting anyone else.” He said. “I don’t know if that will ever help me make things right but it’s better than doing nothing.”

“If there’s any chance of you waking up soon you should. There’s a lot of people waiting for you.”

Calliope’s POV-

“I can’t believe your boss is paying for everything.” Natasha said as the elevator went up to the penthouse villa of Caesar’s Palace.

“I do, you remember the earrings he got her for her birthday?” Will said.

“Earrings?” Rebekah asked.

“Tony has no concept of money and tends to splurge on small things.” I said.

“There was nothing small about those earrings.” Will said.

“How big were they?” Rebekah asked.

“Four carats.” Natasha answered.

“From Tiffany’s.” Will finished.

“Are you kidding?” Rebekah said.

“He said to wear them on the big day.” I said.

“I wish my boss was half as cool as Tony.” Will said.

“Don’t we all.” Natasha said giving me a pointed look.

“So what’s on the agenda for tonight?” I asked.

“Well first we’re going to dinner at a steak house and then we’ll see where the night takes us.” Will said. “Tomorrow we can go see the sights maybe take a dip in the pool.”

“Do some shopping…” Natasha said.

“You do need clothes.” Rebekah said.

“Oh I have the perfect dress you can borrow for tonight.” Natasha said.

Third Person’s POV-

Will walked in like he usually did and greeted everyone before walking into Hayley’s room.

“Hey sis, you look… well you’ve looked better. At least there isn’t any drool.” Will said. “Everyone had to go to… Sudan. I think it was Sudan. Nat’s lead turned into some crazy mad scientist that perfected some laser thing.”

“She’s okay, I promise. Besides you know her, she can take care of her self.” Will said. “But that’s not why I’m here. Um… Tess had a false alarm and we thought she was going into labor but turns out it was gas. She and Liam moved back up here a few months ago. Said they wanted to be close to everything. It was probably pregnancy brain making the choice but Liam’s just going along with anything since she’s the one with the precious cargo.”

“Okay real talk … Uh they’re getting really close and I don’t think it’s going to be much longer until it’s done. Hales I’m scared. I know it’s time and I’m ready to do what you wanted but after I do that’s it. I’m on my own and even after my dad kicked me out I wasn’t as scared as I am now. You’ve literally faced of assassins and mob bosses without flinching, You were on the run by the time you were thirteen and as scared as you were you kept going.  I don’t know what I’m going to do. I read your will. Thanks for the cash and car but I’d rather have you back. I’m probably not the first or the last person to say that. Doesn’t make it any less true. Your going away party is going to be epic. Tony will make sure of that.” Will said. “I should get going, I’ll be back in a few days.”

Will stood up and walked out of the room. He saw someone watching him from across the nurse’s station. Will looked at her with her blonde hair and impeccably tailored pantsuit.

“I was taught it was rude to stare.” She said in a snide voice.

“I-I’m sorry ma’am you just seem really familiar from somewhere.” Will said.

“Well it is a small world.” She said putting on her shades. “You should take better care of yourself William. You look ragged”

With that she walked past him.

“How did you…” Will said.

She smirked and kept walking.

Calliope’s POV-

Friday night was fun but Saturday… man Saturday.

We woke up hung over after getting treated to shots at Dicks where let’s say the staff were dicks. I got a lap dance by someone who’s lucky his job occupation is to purposely be a really bad stripper because he did not look good in a G-string.

Really wished I didn’t have to wear Nat’s dress, well kind of at least it wasn’t my dress.

I woke up on the couch to a knock at the door. I groaned and stood up pulling the bottom of my dress down so that my butt was covered.

I walked over to the door and opened it.

“Hi, you must be Miss Gerard.” A woman in a pencil skirt and a red blazer with the hotel nametag on it greeted.

“I am?” I asked.

“Your stylist just had this delivered.” She said.

“Stylist? I think you have the wrong room.” I said.

“No they were very specific, and said you were staying in the villa,” She said handing me a bunch of shopping bags. “There’s a card too.”

I took the card before thanking her and closing the door.

I opened the envelope and pulled out the card.

Saw that you hadn’t done any shopping and thought you might need some clothes by now. Have fun- Tony

“You went shopping without me?” Will said.

“No Tony apparently hired a stylist.” I said pulling my phone out and dialing him.

“Hey how’s Vegas?” Tony asked.

“Sunny why did I just get a bunch of shopping bags delivered?” I asked.

“You got them already, everything fit?” Tony asked.

“I haven’t even looked at it. You didn’t have to…” I started.

“Yes I did because I know you and I know you wouldn’t let me any other way.” Tony said.

“Well thank you,” I said.

“Glad you liked it. Have fun and stop calling me to say thanks. The next phone call I get from you better be you asking me to bail you out of jail.” Tony said.

“I won’t make any promises.” I said “Bye.”

“Bye.” He said hanging up on me.

“You know if I didn’t know any better I’d say your boss is in love with you.” Will said.

We stayed quiet before Will started laughing.

“Oh good one.” I said sighing in relief.

“You should go change for breakfast. We’re going sightseeing afterwards.” Will said.

“Awesome.” I said. I looked through the bags and found some olive green shorts with a white crop top and a statement necklace. I fished out some cute gold accented sandals and was ready to go.

Third Person’s POV-

The Avengers had just landed from their mission in Sudan, which was a complete success. They had eliminated a Hydra outpost, captured a Hydra scientist that had given them the name of the last Hydra scientist to work with the scepter and destroyed all of the laser weapons that were going to be distributed to the rest of Hydra. All in all it was a good day.

“I could go for some pizza.” Steve said.

“Some garlic knots.” Natasha said.

“That would go well with some ale.” Thor added. The quinjet ramp was lowered and they were greeted by Maria Hill.

“Mission was a success.” Tony said.

“Good to know boss, I’ve got another one for you.” Maria said.

“Already?” Bruce asked.

“It’s the big one.” Maria said.

“How big?” Steve asked.

“The last one.” Maria said and everyone stayed quiet.

“Where?” Tony asked.

“Sokovia, Fury’s lead dropped the location a few hours ago. Tracked Von Strucker to eastern Europe a few weeks ago and with the Intel you got in Sudan we confirmed Doctor List is there too.” Maria said.

“The scepter?” Thor asked.

“The base is heavily fortified, hidden in the forests outside the Sokovian capital, there are bunkers and watchtowers along the perimeter along with a force field around the actual castle. If they were going to hide the scepter anywhere this would be it.” Maria said.

“It’s the big one.” Clint said.

“Yeah,” Maria said knowing what it meant to them.

“We should um…” Steve started  “take a few days to rest and plan a strategy.”

“Yeah.” Tony said.

“I’m going to let Will know.” Natasha said.

“He’s downstairs with Barnes.” Maria said.

“I should tell Bucky.” Steve said.

“Yeah, tell him we’re finishing what he started.” Tony said spitefully.

“Tony.” Bruce said.

“I’ll be in the lab.” Tony said walking away.

Calliope’s POV-

After a day of sightseeing and day drinking, the three of them picked out a white sequined mini dress from the clothes Tony had sent over.

When I came out of the bathroom Will was holding a sash that said bride and a plastic tiara with a veil attached.

They quickly put it on me before dragging me downstairs and into a limo I didn’t even know they asked for. I got dragged into seeing some show call Thunder from Down Under, which I later realized, was a strip show when I got a lap dance. At least it was better than the lap dance I got the night before.

After the show we grabbed dinner and headed to the club where apparently we got into the VIP. Thanks Tony.

“I’m glad those two are distracted.” Rebekah said.

“Yeah, I wonder how long it’ll take Will to remember he’s married?” I said.

“Speaking of marriage…” Rebekah said. “I wanted to talk to you sooner but considering this is the first time we’ve been alone all weekend now’s a good a time as any.”

“Did John finally propose?” I asked.

“No he’s still in Afghanistan.” Rebekah said. “I… I talked to Kol. I know you slept with Tony.”

“That fucking Idiot. I told him to keep his mouth shut.” I said.

“He had some concerns and if I’m being honest so do I.” Rebekah said.

“It was one night and once in the lab after we got back. Other than some cuddling on the lab futon while we waited for programs to run nothing’s happened.” I said.

“But the fact that you slept with another man other than your fiancé, your boss no less?” Rebekah said.

“We were caught in the moment.” I said.

“I think it’s more than that.” Rebekah said. “You’re the most logical and controlled person I know. You wouldn’t have done it if there wasn’t more than just a moment.”

“It was one night.” I said.

“Cal you may say it was just one night but the way he looked at you yesterday before you left and how he’s doing all of this to make this a weekend you’ll never forget, it was more than just a moment.” Rebekah said.

“It’s over.” I said.

“I don’t think you should get married.” Rebekah said.

“What?” I said.

“Cal, I think you’re making a huge mistake, if you’re having doubts you shouldn’t go through with it.” Rebekah said.

“Beks I’m getting married in less than a week, you think now is a good time to bring this up?” I asked.

“Would you prefer the day of your wedding or months down the line when you’re miserable?” Rebekah said.

“You’re my sister, you’re supposed to be supportive.” I said.

“Of course I support you, I’m on your side no matter what you choose to do but this is a mistake. Come on Cal I know you, tell me this all feels right to you?” Rebekah said.

“It feels like the next step.” I said.

“Maybe but is Nate the one you should be taking that next step with?” Rebekah said.

“He… could be?” I said with a shrug.

“Cal, if you’re having doubts…” She started.

“I wouldn’t be having any doubts if everyone would just back off!” I yelled.

“We’re just looking out for you.” Rebekah said.

“You know what, I need some air.” I said getting up and going outside.

I stood outside just trying to calm down when I felt this feeling of dread and fear. I got chills down my spine.

I shouldn’t be here but I couldn’t be home either. I needed time to think.

I grabbed my phone and dialed the number.

“Hey, it’s me, I need a favor. Can you pick me up in a few hours?” I said as I waved down a taxi. “Airport please.”

Third Person’s POV-

A man with dark jeans and a hooded leather jacket smiled as he passed by the nurse’s station. As far as they knew he was just here visiting. Wouldn’t be the first time.

He knew that in about two minutes the nurses would get up to make their rounds and that would be his window to go in. He sat down making small talk with one of the orderlies until it was time.

He said his goodbyes and headed into the room.

She was in the exact same state as the last time he visited. Hadrian couldn’t help but smile. She really did pull one over on him. As much as he hated her guts, he had to respect her for that. He didn’t see it coming.

But he managed to get himself out of trouble. He always did.

“Hey brat, still being lazy huh?” Hadrian said moving a strand of hair off her face his hand slowly moved down to her cheek and then her neck. “You have no idea how easy it would be for me to just snap your neck like a twig.”

He grasped her neck lightly and smirked but then let go.

“But I’m not, it’d be too easy. Besides letting your soulmates suffer as they watch you waste away, no torture I could ever come up with would ever hurt as much. It’ll only be a few more days though and then they’re pulling the plug on you. There’s going to be erratic beeping followed by one long one and you’ll be gone for good. About damn time. My only regret, I don’t get to be the one that does it.” Hadrian chuckled.

“I would love to see the look on those pathetic idiots faces when they call it. Have a nice life Calliope, what’s left of it. I’ll be sure to tell Rebekah, John and little Adam you said bye when I find them.” He said before walking out.

Tony walked down the hallway of the hospital. He probably should have waited until maybe after he cleaned up from the mission but he didn’t want to wait. It couldn’t wait.

He walked down the hallway when he said a man in dark clothes walking in the opposite direction past him.

Tony didn’t give him a second look, too distracted by his thoughts. When he finally walked in he saw the same thing he saw every damn time he walked in there.

“Hey you.” Tony said sitting down. “So as it turns out patchy the pirate actually came through. We have the location of the last base, which is where the scepter is. It’s… the big one.”

Tony stayed quiet for a few minutes.

“I didn’t think this would ever happen.” Tony said. “I always thought it would be the other way around given my track record.”

“I have to let you go Hales.” Tony said tearing up. “You’re not going to wake up, I need to accept that.

“I love you baby.” Tony said bending over to kiss he forehead. “Don’t know what I’m going to do without you.”

Calliope’s POV-

I walked off the plane and went straight outside. Once I saw the car I went straight over and got in.

“Hey, Thank for doing this.” I said.

‘Anytime.” Clint said. “Though I do have to ask, “Why did you fly into Jersey? And are we going somewhere?”

‘I was at a club and I got an insane craving for Jersey Boy fries and a shake.” I said.

“I’m pretty sure they have fries and shakes in Vegas.” Clint said.

“But Vegas doesn’t have my best friend.” I said.

“Let’s go get some fries and then we can talk about what’s really bothering you.” Clint said.

“That obvious?” I asked.

“You ditched your bachelorette party and flew to Jersey for fries.” Clint said.

“They’re really good fries.” I said.

Clint sighed before driving out of the airport. We got there just as they were opening up. We got out orders to go and drove to a small hidden beach with a lighthouse.

“So.” Clint started.

“Bekah says I have doubts.” I said.

“Do you?” Clint asked.

“Why does everyone keep asking me that?!” I said annoyed.

“Because you don’t look happy.” Clint said. “What’s really bothering you?”

I didn’t say anything just looked out to the ocean.

“Cal, you’ve been off for weeks.” Clint said.

“I fucked up.” I said.

“Cal whatever it is it can’t be that…” Clitn started.

“I slept with Tony.” I blurted out.

“What?!” Clint said shocked.

“In Chicago we went out for drinks and I got the idea for the neural interface. We got caught in the moment. He kissed me, I kissed him and… yeah.” I said.

“You slept with your boss.” Clint said still in shock.

“Yeah we covered that.” I said.

“Are you… do you love him?” He asked.

“Tony?” I asked and he nodded. “He’s a good friend and I care about him, love him even but not romantically. I keep asking myself why I did it but there’s literally no way to explain it other than it felt right”

Clint stayed quiet.

“I tried telling Nate but he never lets me, Just said whatever it is he forgives me for it, and I should feel guilty about it but I don’t and it makes me feel even worse.” I said.

“Cal do you want to marry Nate?” Clint asked.

“I don’t know, I don’t know anything anymore.” I said. “I’m a freaking mess.”

“You have doubts.” Clint said.

“I don’t have doubts it’s just me.” I said.

“You know you’re probably the most stubborn person I know.” I said.

“I’ve been told.” I said drinking my milk shake.

“Yeah, that’s probably one of the things I love about you.” Clint said with a  smirk.

“Don’t know why you do. I’m horrible.” I said.

“You’re not horrible Cal. Your mom is horrible you, you’re just confused.” Clint said. “You remember how we met?”

“How could I forget, First day in New York.” I said. “Rebekah completely forgot to pick me up from the airport. Kol was already gone so I tried to make it on my own and got lost. Showed up around dinner time but She was out with… I forget what his name was.”

“That was the worst day of my life. At least at that point it was.” Clint said. “That was the day I figured out Bobbi was cheating on me. I found a text from Hunter that morning. I went into work and I lost a contract. One of the sites had to be shut down, got in a fight with an inspector. All around shit day. Everything around me was falling apart. I told myself I just need one good thing. Just one. It didn’t have to be big just one complete stranger to look at me and smile. And it would all be okay. Not one person throughout the entire day. I gave up and then I got home. I went to open my door and there you were in the hallway sitting on one of your suitcases while eating a meat lover’s pizza. He looked up at me and smiled at me and before offering me a slice. I was hooked.”

“You never told me that.” I said.

“It was a rough day.” He said. “And the best day ever because I met the girl I’m in love with.”

“Love you too.” I said.

“No Cal, I’m in love with you.” Clint said.

I didn’t think anything about it at first and then it hit me.

“Wait what?!” I said.

“I’m in love with you.” Clint said.

“You’re lying.” I said.

“I’m not.” He said giving me a sad smile. “I love you Cal more than anything. And I want you to be happy even if it’s not with me but if you decide to marry Nate I can’t be there.”

“Clint…” I started tearing up.

“Cal I want you to be happy but every time I see you and Nate together I feel like someone punched me in the gut. I love you but I see you walk down that aisle and go through with it, that’ll tear me apart. I can’t do it.” Clint said making me cry.

“Why are you doing this?” I cried.

“Because even if it doesn’t change anything I needed you to know. I love you.” Clint said. “I’ll always be with you, just not this.”

I didn’t say anything just hugged Clint tight. He didn’t hesitate to hug me and hold me as if someone was going to tear me away at any minute.

“I love you.” I said.

“I know.” Clint said.

Third Person’s POV-

The meeting was over and everyone was clear on what they were going to do. Now they just had to get ready for what came afterwards.

“So I read through Hayley’s will.” Will started.

“I thought the will was only for after…” Steve started.

“Normally yes but there are exceptions for extenuating circumstances.” Will said. “Funeral arrangements we get to see now. What happens to any assets she had comes after the funeral.”

“So burial or cremation?” Tony asked taking a drink of his scotch.

“Well after her organs are harvested for donation. Which considering all the damage and everything she went through is still a maybe, Hayley requested she be cremated but there be no church services or candle light vigils.” Will said.

“So we just burn her and move on?” Clint said.

“No she wants a party.” Will said.

“A party?” Bruce said.

“Yeah, I was kinda shocked too. Hayley said she didn’t want anyone crying or being sad. She wanted to celebrate the good times. That while there weren’t many the time she spent with all of us were the best of her life.” Will cried.

“A party I can handle.” Tony said.

“Do we do it before or after it’s called?” Natasha asked.

“Doesn’t say.” Will said composing himself. “Just said at my discretion and at a time that was more convenient for everyone. She didn’t want anyone not celebrating their birthday or Christmas because of her funeral… party.”

“Before then.” Steve said. “To help us say goodbye.”

“I’m going to need to be drunk when I do it.” Will said.

“Aye.” Thor said.

“I’m going out.” Clint said standing up.

“We’re leaving before sunrise.” Steve said.

“I’ll be here.” He said walking out.

An hour later he was sitting in Hayley’s room just watching her. He reached for her hand and held it.

“This is it.” Clint said. “I… I thought we had more time. I was almost done with the house too. Got those granite counter tops on the kitchen, sanded the floors and polished them. I even evicted the family in the attic. They put up a fight but I won.”

“I always imagined that if it was time for us to go, we’d be old. I’m talking grey hair and wrinkles. I used to think the ending to the Notebook was corny but then I met you and if it was you with me then it would be the only way I’d want to go.” Clint said.

“This is my last mission Hales. I don’t have anything left to fight for. This is the job you gave us and that’s why I’m doing it but after this I’m done. You said that the time you got with all of us was the best time of your life well the same goes for me. You changed everything for me. I always thought I’d die on the job but I’m not. I was going to retire and propose. We’d have a big wedding or elope. I wouldn’t care as long as it was with you. We’d have a really long honeymoon and travel to see the sights not just because we were looking for an assassin or for work. But we don’t get that ending. I’ve lost a lot of people in my life but I never got to say goodbye to any of them. I have to say goodbye to you Hales because I can’t be here when they call it. I feel like I get punched in the gut when I see you here but seeing them take you away, that’ll kill me.”

“I have to be back in a few hours big mission. Pretty sure you’d be nagging me to get some sleep but I think you’d understand if I don’t for this one. Until then, how about one last movie night?” Clint said taking out his laptop and setting up Star Wars.