Chapter 133
Third Person’s POV-
The quinjet landed and everyone quickly got out of their seats.
“Everyone clear on what they need to do?” Steve asked.
“Nat and I will take out the exterior bunker on the south end.” Clint said.
“Stark and I will go in from above.” Thor said.
“I’ll hang back until you officially call a code green.” Bruce said.
“Which we probably will.” Tony said.
“But not yet, they still don’t know we’re coming. Maybe we can take it out before calling it.” Steve said.
“I should probably give you this just in case.” Bruce said reaching into his pocket and pulling out Hayley’s necklace. He ran his thumb over the pendant before handing it over to Natasha.
“I’ll keep it safe.” She reassured him.
“Gear up we’re heading out in two minutes.” Steve said.
Calliope’s POV-
I sat at the table listening to Mother and Anne talk about the rehearsal dinner and all I could think was...
“Calliope?!” Mother snapped.
“Yes?” I answered shaking off my thoughts.
“Are you even listening?” She asked.
“You alright?” Nate asked.
“Yes sorry, I just have a lot on my mind.” I said. “You were saying?”
“Do you have our list of guests for the rehearsal dinner?” Anne asked.
“It’s the same with the exception of Clint. He can’t make it.” I said.
“Really?” Nate said sounding relieved and even smiling a bit.
“Yeah, he also can’t make the wedding so that’s one more seat open at the single’s table.” I said.
“I’m sure we can find someone to fill it. I may actually have a date.” Mother smirked.
“Actually that’s been taken care of my brother is bringing his girlfriend.” I said.
“Oh that’s a shame.” Mother said frowning as my phone started ringing.
“If that’s everything I actually do have to get going.” I said silencing my phone.
“Where you off too?” Nate asked.
“Work, I also have a few things to go over before my conference with the MIT review board.” I said.
“I’ll walk you out.” Nate said.
“Sure, thank you for everything.” I said.
“Of course dear.” Anne said with a tense smile.
We walked out and I hailed a cab.
“You sure you’re okay?” Nate asked. “You look tired.”
“Haven’t been sleeping too great.” I said. The person who normally cuddles with me to help me sleep is in love with me and I don’t think he’d be okay with it anymore. Fuck I missed Clint.
“Cal maybe you should take a break from work, just focus on the wedding and looking for a place?” Nate suggested.
“No, I have everything handled. I just need more coffee and to push through.” I said opening the cab door.
“I’m sorry about Clint.” Nate said trying to sound sympathetic but obviously sounding very relieved.
“Yeah.” I said getting in. “I’ll talk to you later.”
With that I drove away.
Third Person’s POV-
The Avengers stormed the base. Thor stayed behind to help the others take out the ground forces while Tony started to work his way from the inside. He flew towards the castle and just as he was closing in he crashing into something.
“Shit!” He cursed out.
“Language!” Steve chastised “JARVIS, what's the view from upstairs?”
“The central building is protected by some kind of energy shield. Strucker's technology is well beyond any other Hydra base we've taken.” Jarvis informed them.
“Loki's scepter must be here. Strucker couldn't mount this defense without it. At long last.” Thor said.
Natasha meanwhile was taking out some soldiers “At long last is lasting a little long, boys.” She answered.
“Yeah. I think we lost the element of surprise.” Clint said.
“A while ago.” Bucky said shooting at the soldiers.
“Wait a second. No one else is going to deal with the fact that Cap just said "language?"” Tony snarked.
“I know.” Steve said speeding towards the castle on his bike. Before throwing it at a truck full of soldiers. “It just slipped out.”
“Sir, the city is taking fire.” Jarvis informed Tony.
“Well, we know Strucker's not going to worry about civilian casualties. Send in the Iron Legion.” He ordered.
Clint was on the far side of the castle trying to take out a bunker. He through an arrow and then got cover as he waited for the blast but it never came. He tried again thinking it might have been a dud when someone sped by and knocked him out.
“You didn't see that coming?” The man with silver hair taunted before speeding off. Clint grabbed another arrow ready to shoot him when he was shot.
“AH!” Clint groaned.
“Clint!” Natasha yelled rushing over. The man sped off and knocked down Steve and Bucky as he passed by.
“Uh.” Bucky groaned as he fell.
“We have an enhanced in the field.” Steve said.
“Clint's hit!” She said quickly trying to bandage the wound to stop the bleeding while the bunker was still trying to shot at them. “Somebody want to deal with that bunker?”
At that moment the Hulk ran in and took it down.
“Thank you.” Natasha said.
“Stark, we really need to get inside.” Steve said fighting off some soldiers.
“I'm closing in. JARVIS, am I...closing in? Do you see a power source for that shield?” Tony said.
“There's a pathway below the north tower.” Jarvis informed him
“Great, I wanna poke it with something.” Tony said before throwing something at it making it explode, bringing down the Shield. “Drawbridge is down, people.”
“The enhanced?” Thor asked Steve.
“He's a blur. All the new player's we've faced, I've never seen this. In fact, I still haven't.” Steve answered.
“Clint's hit pretty bad, guys. We're gonna need evac.” Natasha told them.
“I can cover you.” Bucky said heading in Natasha’s direction.
“I can get Barton to the jet. The sooner we're gone the better. You and Stark secure the scepter.” Thor said.
“Copy that.” Steve confirmed.
“Looks like they're lining up.” Thor said watching the approaching soldiers and tanks.
“Well, they're excited.” Steve said Thor pounded the Shield with his hammer and the force knocked everyone down.
“Find the scepter.” Thor said before flying off.
“And for gosh sake, watch your language!” Tony teased.
“That's not going away anytime soon.” Steve sighed.
Tony stormed into the base firing at every soldier he saw. “Guys, stop, we gotta talk about this.” He said before shooting the rest of them down. “Good talk.”
“No it wasn't.” One of the soldiers groaned.
Tony walked further into the base and ran into Doctor List. Tony quickly knocked him out before stepping out of the suit. “Sentry mode.” Tony commanded.
“He walked over to a computer before getting to work. “Okay, JARVIS. You know I want it all. Make sure you copy Hill at HQ.” He said.
“We’re locked down out here.” Natasha informed Steve.
“Then get to Banner, time for a lullaby.” Steve said.
“I know you're hiding more than files.” Tony said looking around the room. “Hey, J, give me an IR scan of the room, real quick.”
“The wall to your left...I'm reading steel reinforcement and an air current.” Jarvis answered.
Tony walked to the wall.“Please be a secret door, please be a secret door, please be a secret door...” He said to himself before pushing the wall and opening it up. “Yay!”
Outside Natasha finally finds the Hulk.“Hey, big guy. The sun's getting real low.” She said in a soft voice. The hulk scowled at her. She slowly kneels in front of him and put out her hand. The Hulk gently put his hand on hers. She strokes his hand slowly from his wrist to his palm with her fingers before putting Hayley’s necklace on the palm of his hand. He stumbled away and changed back to Bruce.
Steve finally made it to the base.
“Baron Strucker.” Steve said. “Hydra's number one thug.”
“Technically, I'm a thug for SHIELD.” Strucker corrected.
“Well then technically you're unemployed. Where's Loki's scepter?” Steve asked.
“Don't worry, I know when I'm beat. You'll mention how I cooperated, I hope.” Strucker said.
“I'll put it right under illegal human experimentation.” Steve said not noticing a woman sneaking up behind him. “How many are there?”
Suddenly she knocked him down before quickly leaving. “We have a second enhanced. Female. Do not engage.” He said keeping his eyes on Strucker.
“You'll have to be faster than...” Strucker started before Steve used his Shield to knock him out. “Guys, I got Strucker.”
“Yeah, I got...something bigger.” Tony said looking up at the giant Chitauri leviathan from New York with weapons scattered everywhere before finally finding the scepter. “Thor, I got eyes on the prize.”
He was too distracted to notice someone sneaking up on him. Suddenly the Chitauri comes to life, then Stark sees the rest of the Avengers team are all dead, he goes over to Steve's body to check his pulse when Steve suddenly grabs him.
“You could… have saved us. You could… have save her.” Steve choked out before dying.
“Why didn't you do more?” Steve’s voice echoed in his head. Tony noticed that this isn’t the secret room and snaps out of it. He calls the suit gauntlet to him before grabbing the scepter.
Calliope’s POV-
I got home and as I walked up the stairs I could hear the laughter coming from my apartment.
“And then she just looks up at him and says officer this isn’t what it looks like.” Kol said.
“Are you telling them about Mardi Gras?” I asked.
“Did you seriously think a mall cop was a real cop?” Bucky asked.
“I was drunk, high and he looked very convincing.” I said.
“He was wearing cowboy boots.” Rebekah said.
“He might have been from Texas.” I said.
“That story never gets old.” Clint said.
“Everything okay at work?” Steve asked.
“Yeah, just finished up early and Bruce took me to take an early day.” I said not mentioning how I may have knocked out on my desk.
“How’s the momster?” Kol asked.
“Same as always. Though she finally found a new victim.” I said.
“I’d hate to be that guy.” Kol said.
“So we were thinking of going out for dinner.” Rebekah said. “I feel like all you can eat sushi.”
“Oh that does sound good.” Kol said.
“Thank but I’m kinda beat. I was just going to call it an early night.” I said.
“Aww come on Hales.” Kol said as my ears started ringing slightly.
“Sorry guys just really tired. Tomorrow though I could go for Steak and after drinks. It’s trivia night?” I said.
“We’re holding you to that.” Rebekah said. “You three coming?”
“Are you…” Steve started.
“Come on, the more the merrier. We’ll even text Will.” She said.
“Actually, I think I’ll stay.” Clint said. “I have an early day tomorrow too.”
“You sure?” Kol asked.
“Yeah. Have fun.” Clint said before they all headed out. Once they were gone we sat in silence for a minute before my phone went off. “Tony?”
“No actually it’s my alarm.” I said shutting it off and taking out my medicine bottles. I quickly got up to grab a glass of water before coming back and sitting down.
“You’re back on them?” Clint asked concerned.
“Yeah, I’ve been stressing and having a hard time focusing and I can’t sleep, so Kevin suggested I go back on them.” I said drinking the pills.
“You’re seeing Kevin again?” Clint said surprised.
“Thought it might help me figure thing out.” I said. “It worked the first time figured there’s no way it could make things any worse.”
“Cal, I know that I probably messing things up between us when I said…” Clint started.
“You didn’t mess anything up. No matter what we’re always good. I mean that.” I said.
“Then why are you avoiding me?” Clint said.
“I’m not… I just I don’t want to make things harder for you.” I said.
“It’s harder not to have you in my life at all.” He said.
“I don’t want to lose you.” I said “And I feel like I’m starting to.”
“Hey, I’m always with you. I’m not going anywhere.” He said pulling me into a hug.
“I’m getting married in three days and everything’s changing.” I said.
“You’re still you everything else are just things. If you don’t like them you don’t have to keep them.” He said running his fingers through my hair as I slowly drifted off to sleep.
Third Person’s POV-
Everyone was on the quinjet making sure Clint was stable and comfortable while taking in the fact that it was over. Hydra was out for good.
“Hey.” Natasha came over to sit by Bruce and check up on him. “The lullaby worked better than ever.”
“Just wasn't expecting the Code Green.” Bruce said.
“If you hadn't been there, there would've been double the casualties. My best friend would've been a treasured memory.” Natasha said.
“You know, sometimes exactly what I want to hear isn't exactly what I want to hear.” Bruce said.
“How long before you trust me?” Natasha said.
“I do just… the other guy’s not in a good place right now.” Bruce said.
“Thor, report on the Hulk?” Natasha asked.
“The gates of Hell are filled with the screams of his victims.” Thor said making Natasha glare at him and Bruce groan. “Uh, but, not the screams of the dead, of course. No no, uh...wounded screams, mainly whimpering, a great deal of complaining and tales of sprained deltoids and, and uh... and gout.”
“Hey Banner, Dr. Cho's on her way in from Seoul, is it okay if she sets up in your lab?” Tony called out.
“Uh, yeah, she knows her way around.” Bruce said.
“Thanks.” Tony said. “Tell her to prep everything, Barton's gonna need the full treatment.”
“Very good sir.” Jarvis said.
“JARVIS, take the wheel.” Tony said heading to the back with everyone else.
“Yes, sir. Approach vector is locked.” Jarvis answered.
“It feels good, yeah?” Tony said looking at the scepter. “I mean, you've been after this thing since SHIELD collapsed. Not that I haven't enjoyed our little raiding parties, but...”
“No, but this...this brings it to a close.” Thor said nodding thinking of Hayley.
“As soon as we find out what else this has been used for. I don't just mean weapons. Since when is Strucker capable of human enhancement?” Steve said.
“Banner and I'll give it the once before it goes back to Asgard. Is that cool with you?” Tony said and Thor nodded. “I mean, just a few days until the… farewell party. You're staying right?”
“Yes, yes, of course.” Thor said with a small smile. “We couldn’t have done this without her. She deserves to be honored.”
“Yeah. Cap?” Tony asked.
“For Hayley.” Steve said.
When they finally landed they all went their separate ways. Natasha went with Clint to the lab to keep him company while he was being looked after.
“How's he doing?” Bruce asked Tony.
“Oh, unfortunately, he's still Barton.” Tony said.
“That's terrible.” Bruce said.
“He's fine. He's thirsty. Alright. Look alive, JARVIS. It's playtime. We've only got a couple days with this joystick so let's make the most of it. Update me on the structural and compositional analysis.” Tony said.
“The scepter is alien. There are elements I can't quantify.” Jarvis said.
“So there's elements you can.” Tony said.
“The jewel appears to be a protective housing for something inside. Something powerful.” Jarvis said.
“Like a reactor?” Tony asked.
“Like a computer. I believe I'm ciphering code.” Jarvis said before Tony headed to the lab.
“You sure he's going to be okay? Pretending to need this guy really brings the team together.” Natasha asked Dr Cho as she worked on Clint.
“There's no possibility of deterioration. The nano-molecular functionality is instantaneous. His cells don't know they're bonding with simulacrum.” She explained.
“She's creating tissue.” Bruce said gleefully admiring her work.
“If you brought him to my lab, the regeneration Cradle could do this in twenty minutes.” She said.
“Oh, he's flatlining. Call it. Time?” Tony teased.
“No, no, no. I'm going to live forever. I'm gonna be made of plastic.” Clint said taking the drink Tony offered him.
“You'll be made of you, Mr. Barton. Your own girlfriend won't be able to tell the difference.” Doctor Cho said making everyone in the room frown. “If you need proof I think it was your lab intern who I first used this on.”
“Yeah, no scar.” Tony said.
“This is the next thing, Tony. Your clunky metal suits are going to be left in the dust.” She bragged.
“Well, that is exactly the plan. And Helen, I expect to see you at the party on Saturday.” Tony said.
“Unlike you, I don't have a lot of time for parties.” She said before hesitating. “Will Thor be there?”
Later-
“What's the rumpus?” Bruce asked.
“Well, the scepter. You see, we were wondering how Strucker got so inventive. So, I've been analyzing the gem inside you may recognize.” Tony said bringing up a 3D image of Jarvis's consciousness.
“Jarvis.” Bruce said.
“Doctor.” Jarvis greeted.
“Started out, JARVIS was just a natural language UI. Now he runs the Iron Legion. He runs more of the business than anyone besides Pepper.” Tony said.
“Oh.” Bruce said.
“Top of the line.” Tony said.
“Yes.” Bruce said still not getting where this was going.
“I suspect not for long.” Jarvis answered.
“Meet the competition.” Tony said bringing up another image.
“It's beautiful.” Bruce said.
“If you had to guess, what's it look like it's doing?” Tony asked.
“Like it's thinking. I mean this could be a...it's not a human mind, it...” Bruce said.
“Um-um.” Tony hummed as he nodded.
“I mean, look at this! They're like neurons firing.” Bruce said amazed.
“Down in Strucker's lab I saw some fairly advanced robotics work. They deep-sixed the data, but...I gotta guess he was knocking on a very particular door.” Tony said.
“Artificial intelligence.” Bruce said.
“This could be it, Bruce. This could be the key to creating Ultron.” Tony said.
“I thought Ultron was a fantasy.” Bruce said.
“Yesterday it was. If we can harness this power, apply it to my Iron Legion protocol.” Tony said.
“That's a mad-sized if.” Bruce said skeptically.
“Our job is "if." What if you were sipping margaritas on a sun-drenched beach turning brown instead of green? Not looking over your shoulder for VERONICA.” Tony said,
“Don't hate, I helped design VERONICA.” Bruce said defensively.
“As a worst-case measure, right? How about a best-case? What if the world was safe? What if next time aliens roll up to the club, and they will, they couldn't get past the bouncer?” Tony said.
“The only people threatening the planet would be people?” Bruce said.
“I want to apply this to the Ultron program. But JARVIS can't download a data schematic this dense. We can only do it while we have the scepter here, that's three days, give me three days.” Tony said.
“So you're going for artificial intelligence and you don't want to tell the team.” Bruce said.
“Right. That's right, you know why, because we don't have time for a city hall debate. I don't want to hear the "man was not meant to meddle" medley. I see a suit of armor around the world.” Tony said.
“Sounds like a cold world, Tony.” Bruce answered.
“I've seen colder. This one, this very vulnerable blue one? It needs Ultron. Peace in our time. Imagine that.” Tony said.
“You’re not just doing this to avoid dealing with…” Bruce started.
“I visited, I said goodbye and I’m dealing.” Tony said. “Come on, Bruce what do you think Hayley would say?”
Bruce stayed quiet while sighing. “Get started I need to… make my last visit.” Bruce said.
Third Person’s POV-
“So I have everything set up for the next week. Jarvis will set reminders and I already picked out your suits and labeled them for every meeting.” I said.
“Cal.” Tony said.
“I set up the call filters so any calls your wife make to you go straight to your lawyer because I know you and if anything slips out she will use it against you.” I said. “Bruce you have your meeting with NYU about guest lecturing on Wednesday. If you don’t want to teach the entire semester than just say no with the usual excuse…”
“Cal!” Tony snapped.
“What!?” I shouted back.
“Breathe.” Tony said.
“I’m fine just need…” I started.
“Breathe.” He said putting his hands on my shoulders to get me to stop. I sighed but did as he said.
“Good.” He said. “Now we’re going to blow off the rest of the day because it’s your last day before your vacation. I was thinking spa day, have a masseur come in and work off some of those knots.”
“Can’t. I’m going to be gone for two weeks and I can’t fall behind on my work so I’m working until it’s time to go get ready for the rehearsal dinner.” I said.
“Cal we’ve seen your work, you’re way ahead.” Bruce said.
“But.” I started.
“No.” Tony and Bruce said at the same time.
“I know what you need.” Tony said going to his bar and pouring us each a glass of scotch.
“It’s not even noon yet.” I said.
“Do you want a nooner instead?” Tony asked.
“Haha.” I said. I taking the drink and hoping Bruce didn’t notice. “Funny.”
“So how you feeling? Nervous?” Bruce said.
“Nervous? Why would I be nervous?” I said taking a sip.
“Well you seem a bit jumpy.” Bruce said.
“Well I’m getting married tomorrow to my boyfriend… and no one thinks this wedding is a good idea except for Will but he’s blissfully unaware of everything that’s going on. Man ignorance really is bliss.” I said.
“Cal, I’m not saying this as your boss but as your friend, are you absolutely sure you want to do this?” Tony asked.
“I…” I started.
“Because if you’re not we can all get on a jet and hide somewhere until this all blows over. I will be your getaway driver Cal.” Tony said.
“I’m sure this is what I’m supposed to do. Its probably pre-wedding jitters that’s all. I have some slightly cold feet but nothing to worry about. I’m sure that tomorrow morning they’ll be toasty warm.” I said finishing my scotch. “So spa day?”
“I’ll give them a call.” Tony said.
Third Person’s POV-
Bruce walked down the hospital hallways towards Hayley’s room. The closer he got he was surprised to hear voices in her room. He knocked on the door before coming in.
“Hi.” Bruce said surprised to see Will and Thor.
“Hey, looks like we all had the same idea.” Will said.
“Looks like.” Bruce said.
“Well I actually have to get going, have an exam to cram for.” Will said. “See you guys tomorrow.”
“Good Luck.” Bruce said.
“You came to say your goodbyes as well?” Thor asked.
“Yeah, we have a lot of work to do on the scepter and I wanted to come here before I lost track of time.” Bruce said.
“I don’t know how long it will be before my father allows me to return again. He always said it was an ill-fated love.” Thor said quietly.
“We didn’t get a lot of time with her and it wasn’t always easy but it was worth it.” Bruce said.
Thor nodded before running his fingers through Hayley’s hair and started to braid a lock of it. When he was done he reached for the scissors someone had left on the nightstand.
“What are you doing?” Bruce said alerted.
“It’s an Asgardian custom to keep a lock of a loved one’s hair after they died so to keep a part of them with your until you meet again.” Thor said gesturing to one of his braids with a dark lock of hair in it. Thor gently cut off the small braid before putting it away in his belt. Thor took Hayley’s hand and kissed it before standing up to kiss her forehead. He whispered something in her ear before getting up. “I shall see you at the tower.”
“Yeah.” Bruce said. When Thor was gone he went to take his place next to Hayley.
“Hey.” He said. “I uh… I never really got good at this did I? I never told you this but there was a time back when the other guy first showed up I, I didn’t want to go on anymore. But he wouldn’t let that happen. After that I just drifted through the motions buried myself in work and hoped to make it another day without a code green. Then I met you. You never gave up on me, on us. Made me live again. I never thanked you for that. You taught me that you can’t let the fear take over your life and hold you back, and I’ll try to remember that but it might be a bit hard without you here. I wish I could do more for you, that there was some way to bring you back. I love you Hayley. You saved my life in more ways than one and I’ll always be grateful for that.”
“Thor took some of your hair and guess it’s not really different than me keeping your necklace. Will said that when you left it somewhere it’s because it meant you were coming back. Guess I never really gave up.” He said taking it out.
Calliope’s POV-
I got home from work and quickly jumped in the shower before getting dressed. Will had helped me pick out a white dress with blue embroidered flowers on it. I put on my arrow necklace and some nude heels to finish off the look.
Dad was going to be here shortly to pick me so he wouldn’t have to endure mother alone.
I was just touching up my makeup when there was a knock at the door.
“Come in.” I called out.
“Hey.” Clint said.
“Hey you.” I said closing my compact.
“Wow you look amazing.” Clint said.
“Thanks. Will wanted me in a pink flowery dress but he changed his mind when he saw this one.” I said.
“He picked a good one.” He said looking me up and down before his eyes landed on my necklace. Clint didn’t say anything just smiled. “Just wanted to check up on you.”
“I’m good, slightly better after Tony made us all take the day off and called in professional masseurs. I fell asleep on the table five minutes in.” I said.
“You do look better than you did this morning.” Clint said.
“Yeah, I’m a lot less jumpy that’s for sure.” I said.
“Knock knock.” Dad said walking in.
“Dad.” I cheered going to hug him.
“Hi honey.” He said hugging me back. “You look beautiful. Clint, how are you?”
“I’m good.” Clint said.
“Are you joining us later?” Marcel asked.
“No actually I’m sitting this out.” Clint said. “I was just coming to check on Cal before she left.”
“Oh.” Dad said giving me a concerned look.
“If you need anything, shoot me a text.” Clint said.
“Yeah, thanks.” I said hugging him. He hugged me back before letting me go and heading out. “Ready?” I asked dad.
“Sure, cars waiting downstairs.” Dad said. I locked up before heading downstairs. When Dad said car I was expecting a car not a limo.
“A limo?” I asked.
“Didn’t feel like dealing with parking. Besides it’s your wedding weekend.” Dad said.
“You spoil me.” I said.
“Only when you let me.” Dad said opening the car door and letting me in first.
Once we were inside the driver headed to the church.
“So Clint’s not coming to the rehearsal dinner?” dad asked.
“Or the wedding.” I said looking out the window.
“What? Why not?” dad said shocked. “Is it because of Nate?”
“No uh… Clint told me he was in love with me.” I said.
“Seriously? About time.” Dad said.
“Dad?!” I said.
“Cal the only person that never notice how he felt about you was you.” Dad said. “When did this happen?”
“Last weekend.” I said.
“When you disappeared from your bachelorette party and flew back to New York?” he asked.
“Yup, we went for milkshake and fries. Ate at a beach and he fessed up.” I said. “Said he loved me but watching me with Nate was like getting punched in the gut and if he had to watch me get married it would tear him up. So he’s not coming.”
“What did you say?” Dad asked.
“What was I supposed to say to that Dad?” I said. “He’s my best friend. I love him but I’m marrying Nate. It’s still a bit awkward but we’ll get through it.”
“Do you really just want things to go back to the way they were? I’ve seen the way you two are together. The way he looks at you or how you brighten up whenever he walks into the room. Cal the man offered to be your sperm donor to make you happy and all you could think about was how you couldn’t take his dream away from him.” Dad said. “I think you feel more for Clint than you realize.”
“He’s my best friend and I love him but I’m getting married tomorrow.” Cal said.
“Wedding’s can be called off.” dad said.
“This is what I’m supposed to do so it’s what I’m going to do. Time to take the next step.” I said.
“Cal just promise me if now and tomorrow you have any doubts, no matter how small or irrational they may be you’re not going to go through with it.” Dad said.
“Dad.” I started.
“I don’t care about the money, money comes and goes but your happiness doesn’t, so promise.” Dad said.
“Promise.” I said.
“Okay.” Dad said.
“Sir we have arrived.” The driver said.
“Thank you.” Dad said.
“Let’s get this over with, if we’re going to have to spend the entire night with Mother we need to make it through until the open bar.” I said.
“She’s not going to make it easy.” Dad said.
“She never does.” I said as Dad opened the car door.
We got out of the car and headed inside the church.
“About time you showed up.” Mother chastised.
“Not even a minute.” I muttered.
“Allison you’re looking as lovely as ever.” Dad said politely.
“Marcellus.” She spat out.
“Hey babe.” Nate said coming over and kissing my cheek. “Mister Gerard.”
“Marcel’s fine Nate.” Dad said. “Are these your parents?”
“Yes, This is my Dad, the Captain and Anne Archibald.” Nate introduced.
“It’s nice to meet you.” Dad said shaking both of their hands.
“The pleasure is all ours. Callie is an amazing young woman. We’re so happy to have her join our family.” Anne said.
“She is my pride and joy.” Marcel said.
“Of course she is. She’s her mother’s daughter after all” Mom said putting her arm around me and pulling me away from dad.
“How about we get started?” Natasha suggested after seeing my pleading look.
“Of course. We have a big day tomorrow and a dinner to get to.” Rebekah seconded.
“Right so the Groom will walked down first with his parents.” Will said. Nate and his parents did that. “Followed by the flower girl and ring bearer.”
“They’re not going to be here until tomorrow.” Nate said.
“Skipping that. Next goes the bridesmaids and man of honor.” Will said. “What order do you want us?”
“Uh… Height?” I suggested.
“Okay, Nat goes first, then Rebekah and last but not least me.” Will said jotting it all down. Natasha went first, then Rebekah and then Will.
“Then it’s us.” I said.
“Wouldn’t it be lovely if your mother walked you down the aisle instead of your father? So progressive and a strong feminist…” She started.
“Shall we dad?” I said ignoring her.
“Whatever you want honey, it’s your day.” He said offering me his arm. I took it and we headed down. “She’s trying to make herself look good isn’t she?”
“She’s trying very hard.” I whispered as we got to the alter.
“Then Marcel gives you away, the ceremony and you’re done.” Will said.
“Great rehearsal everyone.” I said.
“Everyone good?” Will said.
“Actually…” Mother started.
“Great let’s go to dinner.” Rebekah said.
“I am hungry.” I said.
“Should you really be eating? You do want your dress to fit you tomorrow don’t you.” Mother sniped.
“I could really use a drink too.” I said.
“Whatever the bride wants.” Will said as we all headed out.
The venue for the rehearsal dinner was a private room in one of the Plaza’s restaurants. They only closed it off for special events or for people with the right connections. I’m guessing Nate’s family was one of the other.
We all sat down at the long table with Nate and I siting next to each other at the center. This was the first time meeting Nate’s extended family and they were all eager to get to know me.
“So how did you two meet?” Nate’s cousin asked.
“School through Will.” I answered.
“Those two went on coffee dates everyday for months before Cal finally asked Nate out.” Will said.
“You asked Nate out?” Trip asked.
“Well that wasn’t technically our first date.” Nate said. “We went out a few weeks before.”
“To be clear it was a work thing and Nate did me a favor so I did him a favor by going as his date. We were still just friends at that point.” I said.
“What did you major in?” One of Nate’s uncle’s asked.
“I triple majored in Computer Science, Business Administration and Communications and I’m currently working on getting my Ph.D in computer Science from MIT.” I said.
“How old did you say you were?” Nate’s grandmother asked.
“Twenty ma’am.” I said.
“That’s very impressive dear.” Nate’s grandfather said.
“Thank you.” I said.
“You’ve been working a lot lately too.” Anne said. “Callie works directly with Tony Stark at Stark Industries.”
“Well I hope they don’t miss you after you start having kids.” Nate’s grandmother said.
“Oh Gran, that’s not going to be a problem.” Nate said. “We’re never kids.”
As soon as Nate said that I started coughing.
“Cal you good?” Rebekah asked.
“Yeah.” I said drinking some water. “I would say never.”
“No I don’t want kids. It’s not like you’re ever going to quit your job to raise them so why have them.” Nate said.
“I wouldn’t say have them right now but maybe one day…” I said.
“No, I don’t see myself having kids. Don’t really like them either. Maybe we can get a dog if we ever buy a house.” Nate said. “I thought you didn’t want kids, your prenup was pretty clear on that.”
“Prenup?” Mother said.
“My prenup was to protect any children we may have.” I said. “Emphasis on have.”
“What prenup are you referring too?” Mother asked.
“Why would I have to be the one to raise them. We’d both be parents.” I said.
“Sweetheart don;t be upset.” Anne said.
“Besides that’s what nannies are for.” Nate’s grandmother said and his side of the table started laughing while my side just stayed quiet.
Dinner was pretty tense after that. As soon as it was over we all went our separate ways.
“You okay?” Nate said on the ride back to the apartment. He was dropping me off before heading to his place for the night.
“I didn’t know you didn’t want to have kids.” I said.
“I thought it was pretty obvious. My plan was only for the two of us. No kids.” Nate said.
“Nate I want kids. I even froze my eggs so that if anything happens I can still have them.” I said.
“Wait when was this?” He said.
“It was two weeks after our first date. Cancer runs in my family and it turns out I have the gene so I froze my eggs.” I said.
“Why didn’t you say anything?” Nate said annoyed.
“We had just started dating. I didn’t know where we were going.” I said.
“I never though about having kids and I don’t see myself having kids.” Nate said.
“Maybe not now but later? You can change your mind.” I said.
“Kind of like you changed your mind about not taking my name?” Nate said.
“That’s different.” I said. “My name is the same as my dad’s. He chose me over everything and I will never take that for granted. I have a reputation, I’m published under that name. “
“Maybe I’ll change my mind but I can’t promise you anything.” Nate said as we pulled up to the building. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Yeah…” I said getting out.
I headed up to my apartment and got into my pjs before sitting on my bed, watching movies on my laptop. I was watching the episode of how I met your mother when Robin and Ted talk about their future before breaking up. I quickly closed my laptop and laid down. I started at the ceiling for a while just thinking about what a future with Nate would be like.
I grabbed my phone and texted Clint.
You awake?
He responded right away.
In bed watching TV.
I got up and grabbed my keys before walking over to his place and letting myself in. I locked up before heading to Clint’s room.
“Shouldn’t you be sleeping?” Clint said.
I lifted the covers and sat down next to him and stared at the TV.
“You remember when I said I didn’t have any doubts?” I said.
“Yeah?” He asked.
“I think I have doubts.” I said.
“What happened?” Clint asked.
“I found out why Nate never asked about that clause in the Prenup. Apparently he doesn’t want kids.” I said. Clint Paused the TV and sat up
“He actually said that?” Clint asked.
“Uhuh. I told him about how I froze my eggs too. He was not thrilled about that. Said he never pictured having kids, they weren’t a part of his plan. Stupid Plan.” I said.
“What are you going to do?” Clint asked.
“I don’t know. I always thought kids were a given when getting married. You know ring, wedding, house and kids.” I said. “I know I only decided to have kids a year ago but I can just picture a shorter version of you with my eyes or a little girl with your eyes I want that.”
“But Nate doesn’t.” Clint said.
“I know. He even threw in my face the fact that I won’t take his name after we’re married. Fuck!” I groaned.
“Does this change anything?” Clint asked.
“Yeah I want to punch Nate in his perfect freaking face. Has he always been this much of a jerk?” I said.
“You already know the answer to that.” He said shutting off the TV.
“It wasn’t supposed to be like this.” I cried.
“Hey. It’s okay.” Clint said hugging me. I hugged him back tight and buried my face in his chest.
“I paid ten grand for a wedding dress.” I cried.
“Ten grand?! But you’re only going to wear that thing…” He started before stopping. “Cal don’t get married. If you do you’re going to be miserable.”
“Then why do I fell like I have to do this?” I said.
Clint stayed quiet. “Take off the ring.”
“What?” I sniffled.
“Just trust me. Take off the ring.” Clint said
I sat up a bit and slipped off the ring. My finger felt so much lighter. “Was it always that big?” I asked.
“Yeah. Think Nate was compensating for something.” Clint said making me laugh. “How do you feel?”
“Confused. I didn’t think I wanted kids but I changed my mind. He could too right?” I asked.
“Maybe.” Clint said sighing.
“I’m getting married in under ten hours. I need to figure this out!” I exclaimed.
“Okay, I’m going to make a pot of coffee and then we’re going to make a pro and con list.” Clint said.
“Yes. Thank you.” I said.
Third Person’s POV-
After spending days in the lab working on Ultron, Bruce and Tony still had nothing.
“What did we miss?” Tony asked.
“I'll continue to run variations on the interface, but you should probably prepare for your guests. I'll notify you if there are any developments.” Jarvis said.
“Thanks, buddy.” Tony said.
“Enjoy yourself, sir.” Jarvis said.
“I’ll try.” Tony said leaving the lab to join the party.
He joined Thor and Maria who were listening to Rhodey tell a story that compared to what they normally did was not as impressive.
“That's the whole story?” Thor asked.
“Yeah, it's a War Machine story.” Rhodey said proudly.
“Well, it's very good then.” Thor said laughing. “It's impressive.”
“Quality save.” Rhodey said. “So, no Pepper? She's not coming?”
“No. She didn’t want to miss it but she had a meeting she couldn’t move.” Tony said.
Meanwhile Steve was catching up with Sam.
“Sounds like a hell of a fight, sorry I missed it.” Sam said.
“If I had known it was going to be a firefight I absolutely would have called you.” Steve said.
“No, I'm not actually sorry. I'm just trying to sound tough. I'm very happy just being me. Avenging is your world. Your world is crazy.” Sam said.
“Be it ever so humble.” Steve said.
“You find a place in Brooklyn yet?” Sam said.
“I don't think I can afford a place in Brooklyn.” Steve said. “Besides don’t think Buck’s ready for a move.”
“Well, home is home, you know?” Sam said.
“Might do us some good to get away from here.” Steve said watching Bucky hide at the corner of the bar avoiding people.
“Oh, no, no, no. See this, this was aged for a thousand years, in the barrels built from the wreck of Brunhilde's fleet, it's not meant for mortal men.” Thor said pouring steve a drink from his flask.
“Neither was Omaha Beach, blondie. Stop trying to scare us. Come on.” One of the veterans said.
“Alright.” Thor said pouring the man a drink only for him to be escorted away after he got too drunk
“Excelsior.” He said as he was carried out.
“Keep’em coming.” Will said as Natasha mixed some drinks.
“You know we’re going to have to talk about your drinking later.” Natasha said serving Will a fruity red drink.
“If I’m going through with it tomorrow then I need all the liquid courage I can get.” Will said. “Starting tomorrow I’m on my own again. I haven’t been on my own in five years.”
“You’re an idiot.” Natasha said.
“You’re mean.” Will said.
“You really think we’re going to abandon you after tomorrow?” Natasha said.
“Why wouldn’t you?” Will said. “Hayley’s gone
“She’s been in a coma for over a year and we never left you alone.” Natasha said making Will tear up. “That’s not going to change tomorrow. Stop being an idiot and drink some water.”
Meanwhile…
A tall woman with greying blonde hair she had up in a tight bun wearing a white wool coat with grey trim and a white Cartier handbag walked into the hospital not bothering to take off her sunglasses.
She walked through the hospital hallways passing busy nurses who didn’t bother to give her a second look. She made sure there were no nurses at their desks before walking into the hospital room.
She took off her sunglasses and looked at the girl lying helpless and immobile on the bed. She reached into her bag and pulled out a syringe with a yellow liquid. She walked over to the IV drip and injected the serum.
She quickly disposed of the syringe before walking over to pick up her things. He tucked the girl’s hair behind her ear before leaning down to whisper something in her ear.
“I didn’t raise a loser Calliope, get your ass up.” With that she straightened up and walked out of the room.
Calliope’s POV-
“Oh come on. We’ve spent the past three months fighting like cats and dogs how could the Pros equal the cons?!” I groaned.
“Because you’re a good person who sees the good in everyone.” Clint said.
“But this was supposed to solve things not make them worse.” I said.
“You’re not going to figure this out with cold hard facts. You need to dig deep.” He said.
“I’ve got nothing. I want kids. Nate doesn’t. I was ready to have a kid on my own. I was half expecting him to end things after he found out about our kids.” I said. “Why is this so hard!?”
“It’s not that hard you’re just too stubborn to face facts.” Clint said.
“What am I doing with my life?” I cried.
“Okay, I think it’s time to call it.” Clint said hugging me. “You’re running on nothing but coffee and will power. You need sleep.”
“I’m supposed to be getting married tomorrow.” I said.
“Today actually.” Clint said looking at the clock.
“AH!” I groaned.
“Come on.” Clint said leading me to his bedroom. “You need some sleep.”
“I have an alarm on my phone.” I said.
“Either way if Bucky and Steve don’t see you in bed they know where to look.” Clint said lifting the covers and moving in behind me. I turned and hugged him as I rested my head against his chest. He put his arm around me and held be close as we drifted off to sleep.
Third Person’s POV-
The party had died down so that only the team and a few of their closest friends were left. They were all lounging around the coffee table where Thor had set down Mjolnir when the conversation started.
“But, it's a trick!” Clint said.
“Oh, no. It's much more than that.” Thor said.
“Uh, "Whosoever be he worthy shall haveth the power!" Whatever man! It's a trick.” Clint said.
“Well please, be my guest.” Thor said.
“Come on.” Tony said.
“Really?” Clint asked.
“Yeah!” Thor said before Clint got up.
“Oh this is gonna be beautiful.” Rhodey said.
“Clint, you've had a tough week, we won't hold it against you if you can't get it up.” Tony joked.
“You know I've seen this before, right?” Clint said as he tried to lift the hammer but it wouldn’t budge. “I still don't know how you do it.”
“Smell the silent judgment?” Tony said.
“Please, Stark, by all means.” Clint goaded.
“Oh, here we go.” Natasha said.
“Okay.” Maria said.
“Uh-oh.” Rhodey said.
“Um-hmm.” Clint hummed in amusement.
“Never one to shrink from an honest challenge.” Tony said rolling his sleeves up.
“Get after it.” Clint said.
“Here we go.” Natasha said waiting for Tony to start.
“It's physics.” Tony explained.
“Physics!” bruce seconded.
“Right, so, if I lift it, I...I then rule Asgard?” Tony asked.
“Yes, of course.” Thor said humoring him.
“I will be re-instituting Prima Nocta.” He said trying to lift it but failing. “I'll be right back.” He did and tried again wearing an armor gauntlet. When thet wasn;t enough he had Rhodey help him.
“Are you even pulling?” Rhodey groaned.
“Are you on my team?” Tony retorted.
“Just represent! Pull!” Rhodey said.
“Alright, let's go!” Tony said and they both pulled but still nothing. Then Bruce gave it a shot and roared trying to get everyone to think he was changing into the Hulk but they all just stared at him.
“Huh?” bruce said going back to sitting down.
“Let's go, Steve, no pressure.” Tony said.
“Come on, Cap.” Rhodey cheered. Steve tried and moved it a bit making thor panic for a second before he stopped.
“Nothing.” Thor said relieved
“And?” Tony said gesturing towards Natasha.
“Widow?” Bruce asked.
“Oh, no no. That's not a question I need answered.” Natasha answered.
“All deference to the man who wouldn't be king, but it's rigged.” Tony said.
“You bet your ass.” Clint seconded.
“Steve, he said a bad language word.” Maria taunted.
“Did you tell everyone about that?” Steve asked Tony.
“The handle's imprinted, right? Like a security code. "Whosoever is carrying Thor's fingerprints" is, I think, the literal translation?” Tony said.
“Yes, well that's, uh, that's a very, very interesting theory. I have a simpler one.” Thor said picking up mjolnir with a dramatic flip. “You're all not worthy.”
Everyone disagreed with uproar before there was a loud ring making them all groan and stop.
“Worthy... No... How could you be worthy? You're all killers.” A robotic voice said. One of the iron legion drones walked towards them.
“Stark.” Steve said.
“JARVIS.” Tony called out.
“I'm sorry, I was asleep. Or...I was a-dream?” the robot said.
“Reboot, Legionnaire OS, we got a buggy suit.” Tony said tapping his phone.
“There was a terrible noise...and I was tangled in... in...strings. I had to kill the other guy. He was a good guy.” The robot said.
“You killed someone?” Steve asked concerned.
“Wouldn't have been my first call. But, down in the real world we're faced with ugly choices.” It answered.
“Who sent you?” Thor asked.
"I see a suit of armor around the world" It played a recording of Tony’s voice.
“Ultron!” Tony said in realization.
“In the flesh. Or, no, not yet. Not this...chrysalis. But I'm ready. I'm on a mission.” Ultron said.
“What mission?” Natasha asked.
“Peace in our time.” Ultron answered before attacking.
By the time they managed to take out all the drones Ultron had already gotten away with the scepter.
Calliope’s POV-
I woke up a few hours later still in Clint’s arms and I couldn’t remember why I needed to get up. Then my alarm rang with the wedding bells ringtone. Oh right…
“Mhm. Five more minutes.” Clint mumbled.
“Mhm yeah.” I said just watching him sleep and slowly start to snore. I couldn’t help but smile at him. Wish I could wake up like this everyday. I made sure Clint was knocked out before slipping out of bed and heading back to my apartment. I made sure Lucky didn’t make any noise as I grabbed my keys and snuck out.
“What are you doing?” Will said.
“Ah!” I jumped a bit. “You scared me.”
“Did you sleep at Clint’s place?” Will asked.
“I couldn’t sleep so I came over to watch a movie.” I said.
“That explains the bag under your eyes. Come on go get dressed we’re going to grab a quick bite on the way before heading over to the Church to get ready.” Will said.
“Right.” I said before heading into the apartment. Steve and Bucky were already up and looked at me confused. I headed straight to my room and put on my pre wedding dress. Will had already been in here and picked out everything else I might need so as soon as I slipped on the white skater dress with a bow at the waist we were off.
Natasha and Rebekah were going to meet us there to all get ready together. Hopefully the dresses had already been delivered so there’d be one less thing to worry about.
“Everything okay?” Will asked.
“Yeah just… lot on my mind.” I said we walked in.
“You’re late.” Mother said as soon as we walked in.
“Sorry traffic.” I said.
“Give me a minute alone with my daughter.” She snapped at Will. I nodded and Will left. She stepped closer before twisting and pulling my ear.
“Ow!” I cried out.
“What are you think, starting an argument with Nate at the rehearsal dinner, did you learn nothing?” She snapped.
“Let me go.” I said before she kicked my leg and let me fall to the ground.
“Do not screw this up Calliope, this is your one chance. Now stop pouting. I didn’t raise a loser Calliope, get off your ass and stop embarrassing me” She said before marching off.
“Ow.” I said standing up.
“Are you okay?” Serena said walking over.
“Yeah,” I said getting up. Her bark’s worse than her bite.” I said smiling.
“Is she always…” She asked.
“I’ve never been with her more than a day or two so probably, just never seen it up close.” I said.
“You excited?” She asked.
“More nervous than anything.” I said.
“You’re lucky, Nate’s an amazing guy. You lucked out.” Serena said.
“That what everyone keeps saying.” I said. “I should probably go get ready.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll keep her away.” Serena said.
“Thank you. You really are as good as Nate said you were.” I said before walking into the dressing room.
Third Person’s POV-
“He's all over the globe. Robotics labs, weapons facilities, jet propulsion labs, reports of a metal man, or men, coming in and emptying the place.” Maria said.
“Fatalities?” Steve asked.
“Only when engaged. Mostly guys left in a fugue state going on about old memories, worst fears, and something too fast to see.” She explained.
“Maximoffs. Well, that makes sense he'd go to them, they have someone in common.” Steve reasoned.
“Not anymore.” She said handing Steve a tablet showing Strucker’s dead body with the word peace written in blood.
Steve shakes his head before seeing Clint on the phone“Barton, we might have something.” He said. Clint quickly ended the call before catching up. “Who was that?”
“Old Contact, they didn’t have anything.” Clint said before heading to the lab. Steve shoved the tablet towards Tony.
“What's this?” Tony asked,
“A message. Ultron killed Strucker.” Steve told him.
“And he did a Banksy at the crime scene, just for us.” Tony said.
“This is a smokescreen. Why send a message when you've just given a speech?” Natasha said.
“Strucker knew something that Ultron wanted us to miss.” Steve said.
“Yeah, I bet he... “ Natasha said looking through the computer files. “Yep. Everything we had on Strucker has been erased.”
“Not everything.” Tony said before pulling out all the physical files they had.
“Known associates. Well, Strucker had a lot of friends.” Steve said reading through the file.
“Well, these people are all horrible.” Bruce said.
“Wait. I know that guy.” Tony said as Bruce handed him the file. “From back in the day. He operates off the African coast, black market arms. There are conventions, alright? You meet people, I didn't sell him anything. He was talking about finding something new, a game changer, it was all very "Ahab."”
“This.” Thor said noticing the mark on his neck.
“Uh, it's a tattoo. I don't think he had it...” Tony said.
“No, those are tattoos, this is a brand.” Thor explained.
“It means Thief only in a worse way.” Bucky said.
“What dialect?” Steve asked.
“Wakanda.” Bucky said.
“If this guy got out of Wakanda with some of their trade goods...” Tony said.
“I thought your father said he got the last of it?” Steve retorted.
“I don't follow. What comes out of Wakanda?” bruce asked and Tony and Steve looked at his Shield.
“The strongest metal on earth.” Tony said.
“Where is this guy now?” Steve asked before Natasha’s phone started ringing.
“Romanoff.” She answered. “You need me… Sure. I’ll let them know.”
With that Natasha hung up.
“Who was it?” Clint asked.
“Will, he’s uh about to head to the hospital. Wanted to know if anyone want to make a last visit before…” She said and everyone stayed quiet.
“If anyone needs to go say their goodbyes now’s the time.” Steve said.
“I said my goodbyes days ago.” Tony said.
“Same.” Clint said.
“I did as well.” Thor said touching the braid that had Hayley’s hair in it.
“Stark get the location, wheels up in ten.” Steve said.
Calliope’s POV-
I was in standing in my wedding dress staring at myself in the mirror. The dress was perfect with the full skirt and beading. The textured layers of the organza skirt gave it movement.
I thought I’d feel different in it but I don’t.
“Aren’t you a sight?” Mother said with a smirk. “The perfect bride. At least you would be if you stopped frowning”
“Knock knock.” Dad said walking in.
“Marcel can’t you see that your daughter is getting ready.” Mother chastised.
“I’m glad you’re here dad.” I said. “What do you think?”
“Wow.” Dad said tearing up. “My little girl’s all grown up.”
“Dad don’t cry.” I said tearing up. “You’re going to make me cry.”
“Sorry, I just remember the first time I met you. You were so small and adorable in pig tails. It seems like that was just yesterday and now I’m giving you away at your wedding.” Dad said.
“Guys can we have a minute?” I asked.
“Course.” Will said.
“Ehem.” Rebekah said giving mother a pointed look.
“Don’t take too long we’re on a schedule.” Mother said leaving.
“Guessing she hasn’t been making things easy.” Dad said.
“When has she ever?” I said.
“Is that why you’re so sad?” He asked.
“It’s going to sound ridiculous but I thought I’d feel different. That once I was at this point it would all just click.” I said.
“Well maybe this will help.” He said handing me a small box.
“Dad you didn’t have to.” I said.
“I didn’t spend money on it. Every bride needs their something old. And it’s also blue.” Dad said. I slowly opened the jewelry box and saw a very familiar silver necklace. It had a silver chain with a bird, leaf, diamond and turquoise pendants.
“My adoption necklace. I thought I lost it.” I said.
“More like misplaced. It was behind your nights stand.” Dad said helping me put it on. “Perfect fit.”
“I remember the day you gave it to me, it was the day the adoption was finalized.” I said.
“I remember I took you for ice cream and you saw it in the window of an antique shop. You almost made me return it.” Dad said. “They say birds symbolize freedom.”
“I wasn’t under mother’s thumb anymore and for the first time in my life I was free to just be me. I wasn’t afraid I wouldn’t be loved if I was.” I said and that was when it all clicked.
“I should probably go greet come guests.” Dad said.
“Yeah, can you just tell everyone to wait outside for a minute?” I asked.
“Sure.” Dad said smiling. “I love you kiddo.”
“Love you too.” I said. Once he was outside I started looking through my pictures on instagram. Of Clint and everyone else. And then I saw one of my with Nate. I looked tense and uncomfortable. I had a polite smile on my face and it was forced. I swiped to another photo to one of Clint and I just goofing off during one of our food adventures. I couldn’t stop smiling and his eyes were bright and happy.
“Oh shit.” I said quickly dialing Clint.
“Hello.” He greeted sleepily.
“I’m in love with you.” I said.
“Cal?” Clint said confused.
“I’m a stubborn moron and I should have seen it sooner but I’m in love with you. I’m going to make things right so please wait for me for just a little longer. I’m coming home.” I said hanging up.
“Hey Cal just wanted to bring you your flowers. Don’t know why Nate insists they’re your favorite.” Josh said coming in with a bouquet of white roses.
“Just leave those there. I’m not getting married today.” I said.
“What?” Josh said surprised.
“You heard right.” I said walking out of the bridal suite and into the hallway.
“Cal?” Will said surprised.
“Can you get Nate over here?” I asked.
“Calliope what are you doing? You know it’s bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding?” Mother said pretending to be pleasant.
“Oh can it mom. I sighed a prenup, you’re not getting a dime and I’m not getting married.” I said.
“What?” Everyone including Nate said.
“Nate, you’re a great guy and on paper you’re perfect but you’re not perfect for me.” I said.
“I ‘ve been having an affair with Serena for the past two months.” Nate blurted out.
“Wow.” Will said.
“Did not see that coming.” Natasha said.
“Same.” Rebekah said.
“I’m sorry it’s just we reconnected and we were fighting and…” nate started.
“I slept with Tony.” I said trying to ease his guilt.
“What!?” Nate said.
“Let’s face it, we were doomed from the start. We fight like cats and dogs over any little thing and I don’t want to live like that.” I said taking off my engagement ring. “I really hope you two are happy together.”
With that I walked away.
“Calliope, Calliope!” Mother chased after me. “What is wrong with you?”
“Nothing, I’m just tired of trying to do what’s expected of me instead of what makes me happy.” I said.
“You can’t do better than Nate Archibald.” She said.
“Yeah I can, it has nothing to do with money. Money doesn’t buy happiness mother, I thought you’d figure it out by now.” I said.
“So what you’re just going to walk away from it all. You may hate the way I am but wake up sweetheart everything you have is because of me. If it weren’t for me getting your father’s attention he never would have even given you a second look let alone adopted you.” She spat.
“Maybe, but at the end of the day he chose me over you and his money. He isn’t my father because some piece of paper says so or because of my DNA. He’s my dad because he chose to be there for every good day and bad day. He didn’t sell me away for a divorce settlement.” I said.
“You are throwing everything away.” Mother yelled.
“No, I’m not throwing anything away. I’m getting something way better.” I said.
“About Damn Time.” Josh said before everything faded and suddenly I appeared on the roof of Stark Tower. I wasn’t wearing my wedding dress any more and my hair was down. I was in jeans with dark sued booties and a wool blue grey peplum top. I still had my necklace on.
“What the hell?” I said looking around.
“You have got to be the most stubborn person I’ve ever met.” Josh said.
“Josh? What’s going on?” I asked confused. “How did we get here?”
“Oh right forgot to give you your memories back.” He said walking up to me before putting two fingers on my forehead. At that moment it all cam rushing back.
““You have seven marks right?”
“Yeah…” I said confused about where they were going with this.
“The six of us bare the same mark.” Thor said removing his arm bracers to show a mark on his arm. It was identical to the pendant on my necklace. Steve lifted his right arm and the same mark was on his bicep. Tony lifted the sleeve of his shirt up and it was on his left arm. Natasha stood up showed me the mark on her hip. Then Clint pulled his shirt up and showed the mark that was on his ribs. I looked to Bruce and he kind of blushed.
I saw all of them. The first time I met them, the first time we fought and made up, How each of them just fit in seamlessly in my life and completed me in a way I didn’t think was possible. I saw how much the loved me, felt the way they made me feel and then if all came crashing down.
“What did I do?” I teared up.
“Hayley?” Josh said.
“I’m so sorry Josh.” I said.
“Hayley.” Josh said.
“It’s all my fault, you were… you were supposed to have a life with Will and…” I started.
“You weren’t the one who ran me off the road that night. You couldn’t have known he would come after me.” Josh said helping me up.
“He wanted to hurt me through Will and… I should have done more.” I said.
“It’s okay Hayley. Everything happens for a reason. If I didn’t die who would be here to show you the way back?” Josh said.
“Ehem, I think you’re forgetting about me.” Someone said.
“Claire?” I said.
“Hello Molly, or do you prefer Cal?” She said.
“Hayley.” I said. “What is this place? Am I dead?”
“No, pretty close though. Going head to head with a brain washed super soldier was not your best idea.” Josh said.
“I had to try to save him, Josh.” I said.
“You did save him.” Claire said.
I’m so sorry Doll…
“What was that?” I asked.
Those echoes are the voices of people who’ve been visiting you.” Josh said.
“So I’m not dead?” I asked.
“No this is limbo, the thin veil between life and death.” Claire explained. “You’re body’s in a coma.”
“Has been for roughly fifteen to sixteen months.” Josh said.
“What?!” I exclaimed.
“Hey you thought you were just going to walk away from a gunshot, being thrown off a cliff and drowning?” Josh said.
“Well no but, how did I survive that?” I said.
“That’s actually a complicated story. Short version it wasn’t your time but you weren’t ready to go back yet.” Claire said.
“Why the hell not?” I said.
“You know I’ve gotten to know you a lot better since you’ve been here. And your struggle here was the same as it was back on Earth. You told Demitri that Calliope is who your mom needed you to be, Grace is what you needed at the time and Hayley was who you wished you could be. You’re always trying to do what’s expected of you even if it goes against what you truly think is right. You’re so hard on yourself and you blame yourself for things that aren’t your fault. You think that your name is what defines you but look at your life here. Maybe you weren’t an accessory to drug trafficking but you forced yourself to want to get married to Nate who was the complete opposite of real Nate because you thought that was expected of you. You needed to learn that you are in control of your life. Calliope, Grace and Hayley are identities you made for different reasons but at their core you’re still the same person who would do whatever it takes to protect the people she loves, who would welcome a complete stranger into her life because she knows what it’s like to be alone in an unfair world, And who would fight until her last breath for those same people.”
“So you’re the reason I had really bad sex with fake Nate?” I said.
“Out of all of that, that’s what you want to focus on? I’m pouring my heart of here.” Josh said.
“No I’m a little curious about that too.” Claire said.
“Okay fine I thought that might give you a hint in the right direction so we could move things along. I always told you it wasn’t about Nate but…” Josh started.
“What he represented.” I said piecing it together.
“Seriously Cal, you are the most stubborn person I know, you made this guardian thing a lot harder than it had to be.” Josh said.
“Guardian?” I asked confused.
“New Job. See I made a lot of mistake on earth but I showed enough redeemable qualities that they thought I could do some good here. Guiding lost souls their way.” Josh said. “Finally got you to snap out of it.”
“What am I supposed to do now?” I asked.
“You wake up.” Claire said.
“They need you Hales.” Josh said.
“Last time I tried to help I ended up in a coma.” I said.
“But you learned from it.” Josh said. “I can’t force you to do anything but before you decide anything how about you listen to them.”
Josh stayed quiet and I could hear them.
“That’s all of them… even Bucky and… Hadrian?!” I said.
“You believe me when I say they need you now more than ever?” Josh asked.
I didn’t raise a loser Calliope, get your ass up.
“That’s not possible.” I said.
“Thing’s are getting bad up there Hales. Listen for Will.” Josh said.
I stayed quiet. “The foot model? Really?”
“It’s been a rough year.” Josh said.
“Okay, how do I wake myself up?” I asked.
“Well that’s the tricky part.” Josh said walking over to the ledge and looking down. “You have to jump.”
“What you mean like… jump jump?” I said.
“The shock should wake you up.” Claire said.
“And if it doesn’t?” I asked.
“Well, it’s always trivia night at MacLaren’s here.” Josh said.
“Right.” I said taking a deep breath. “Okay, I took a bullet and got thrown off a cliff so this can’t be any worse than that.” I said climbing up the ledge.
“Hayley, do me a favor?” Josh said.
“You don’t have to ask, you know I’ll look after him anyway.” I said.
“Tell him I love him and that I want him to be happy again.” Josh said.
“I’ll let him know.” I said. “Thank you… for looking out for me, even if I don’t understand your methods.”
“I’ll work on it.” Josh said.
“Here goes nothing.” I said taking a deep breath before stepping off the ledge. I was falling and falling until suddenly I was jumping and sitting up on a hospital bed. I looked around and saw photos and flowers. My bedding was different from those given in hospitals but I was still hooked up to the same IV and heart monitors.
I’m alive. I’m awake.
“Thanks Josh.” I whispered.