Fated Marks

A Few Nights Later…

It had been four days since I had gotten the file on the bloody shipping container. Four days where I couldn’t stop thinking about it. It was all I saw when I closed my eyes. It was what kept me up at night.

Nothing about it made sense. It was sloppy, and if there was one thing Dragon Lady wasn’t it was sloppy.

Then there was the added mystery of who the victims were. I couldn’t identify them. Every database I checked came up with nothing. Fingerprints didn’t match anyone, DNA also no match, Dental records? Still nothing.

Maybe the reason she left the bodies there were because there was no way to trace who they were. At least not a way I had thought of yet.

Which was why I was still up at two in the morning working in my living room with a projection of the shipping container, blood and guts included recreating the crime scene.

“Okay what is marker number five for?” I asked Friday.

“According to the forensics report there were specks of dirt found in that spot.” Friday said.

“Any special soil composition that might clue in where they moved the bodies from?” I asked.

“No boss the sample was too contaminated by the blood.” She said.

“It was a long shot anyway.” I said.

“Hales?” Clint said. I turned around and saw him standing behind me. His hair sticking up on one side and matted down on the other, looking a bit more away as he looked around the room.

“Oh hey.” I said signaling Friday to shut it all down. “Sorry I just wanted to check something.”

“I can see that…” Clint said concerned.

“Just can’t stop thinking about it.” I said.

“Yeah, that’s not something you can just forget about.” Clint said looking down at my tablet where a photo of the crime scene was still on the screen. I quickly closed the tablet. He sighed and pulled me to sit on his lap. I put my arms around him and leaned against him. “Hales I know finding Dragon Lady is important and I’m with you but you’re not sleeping. Your appetites off… for good reason but…”

“I know. Brought it up with Kevin yesterday. Thinks I should take a few days off the case. Come back and look at it with a fresh set of eyes.” I said.

“Not a bad idea.” Clint said. “And maybe… no more recreating gory crime scenes in the middle of our living room in the middle of the night? Not really what you want to see when you come down the stairs in the dark.”

“Sorry.” I said. “I’ll try to leave work at work.”

“You don’t have to do that just maybe… keep it to daylight hours?” He said.

“Okay.” I said kissing him.

“Let’s go to bed. And you’re sleeping in tomorrow no buts.” He said as we stood up.

“That sounds nice.” I said taking his hands and following him up to bed.

The Following Morning…

Sleeping in turned into me taking a personal day which Clint was more than happy to take with me. I was really ahead at work so I didn’t really have much to do. There were a few emails here and there. Friday had the banshee protocol set in case anyone tried to tag along on missions they weren’t assigned to but so far it was smooth sailing.

“We’ve got zucchinis!” I called out to Clint.

“Score.” Clint said. “These will go good in a stir fry.”

“Or I could make zucchini bread?” I suggested.

“That cinnamon one with the chocolate chips?” He asked.

“Uhuh.” I confirmed.

“That’d be good.” He said just as my phone started ringing. “Work?”

“No it’s dad.” I said as I answered. “Hey dad.”

“Hey sweetheart, how’s the new job going?” He asked.

“Oh just the usual. A lot of paperwork and people whining.” I said.

“Well I talked to your sister.” Marcel said. “Your mother kidnapped your nephew?”

“You’ve missed a few things. Speaking of where have you been the past couple of weeks?” I asked.

“I’ve been traveling. Looking into what your mom’s been doing.” Marcel said.

“Guessing you hit a dead end?” I asked.

“A few and then I hit a few potential leads.” He said.

“This have anything to do with Ad astra per aspera?” I asked.

“How did you…” he started.

“The guy who took Adam had a tramp stamp with those words on him. I’ve been digging and it looks like he’s a part of something bigger. I also found a shipping container full of bodies with that tattoo on them.” I said.

“Where did you find that container?”  He asked.

“Hong Kong.” I said.

“There might be more where that came from.” Marcel said.

“That’s the only one I’ve found so far.” I said.

“Look into discrepancies in ports along the east African Coast and the Mediterranean.” He said.

“That’s oddly specific.” I said.

“I’m on to something Cal.” Marcel said. “I’ve been following up leads and I think this is bigger than we thought.”

“Isn’t it always?” I retorted. “Just be careful dad. Something about this all just feels off.”

“I will. I’ll talk to you soon okay?” He said.

“Okay. Bye.” I said before the call cut off.

“Everything okay?” Clint asked.

“Yeah dad just seemed to be in a rush.” I said. “Said I should look into a few things but I’ll do that another day. How about I pack us a picnic and we go somewhere?”

“That lake close to where we went hiking last time?” He suggested.

“That’s a good spot.” I said. “Just give me an hour to see what I can whip up.”

“I’ll finish up here.” Clint said kissing me before he went to finish weeding and watering the tomatoes. I improvised a bit in the kitchen. I made sandwiches out of some leftover chicken salad, cut up some fruit and cheese along with some other snacks.

I changed into a crochet lace cover up and shorts and put on my swim suit under. It was still pretty hot and sunny outside and if we were going to a lake we might end up swimming.

“Okay tomatoes are good for now.” Clint said as he walked in stopping when he saw me. “Are we going swimming?”

“It’s a nice day out, might be the last chance we get in a while.” I said. “Picnic’s packed up whenever you’re ready.”

“Let me change.” Clint said quickly going to change into some swim trunks and tee shirt with the sleeves cut off. We decided to take his truck since my car wasn’t really good for driving off the road.

It was the middle of the week so we had the lake completely to ourselves. Once we settled on a spot by a tree that gave us plenty of shade I put the blanket down and we got to eating.

“Hales I don’t know how but you can take the most random ingredients and leftovers and you always turn them into something that tastes even better than before.” Clint said taking a bite of his sandwich.

“It’s just a sandwich.” I said wiping some crumbs that were on his cheek with my thumb.

“Best leftover chicken salad…” Clint started.

“And fried chicken… needed to stretch it out a bit.” I said.

“Best sandwich ever.” He said finishing his sandwich.

I cleaned up a bit and laid back with Clint as we looked up at the sky. We would’ve been cloud watching but it was a clear sky so we just relaxed and enjoyed being with each other. It was the perfect date. Nothing elaborate just the two of us enjoying being together.

“Come on.” Clint said getting up. “I really want to try that swing.”

“Alright.” I said getting up and slipping off my cover up and shirts leaving me in a red halter bikini. Clint grabbed onto the rope and swung himself into the lake. “That’s easily a perfect ten.”

“Aren’t you going to jump in?” He asked.

“You might want to get out of the way first.” I said and he swam a bit out before I grabbed onto the rope and swung out before letting go and falling into the water. I sunk before I swam up and combed my hair out of my face.

“Now that was a ten.” Clint said as he swam closer.

“Think so?” I said putting my arms around him.

“Know so.” He said holding me close. And in that moment… Clint was totally kicking himself for not bringing the ring.

“Thanks for this, This was just what I needed.” I said.

“Anytime.” Clint said kissing me. “We need to do this more often.”

“Yeah, I miss our outings.” I said. “Work and Dragon Lady really messed with out plans.”

“They didn’t mess with them we’re just hitting pause for a bit.” He said.

“Still.” I said. “Once we’re back in retirement let’s go on a road trip. Visit all those places that come up on the food network. Try those food challenges.”

“Kitchen sink ice cream challenge?” He said.

“I could totally beat that.” I said.

“I know you could.” Clint chuckled. “We’ll get there again.”

“Lock her up, throw away the key and forget she exists.” I said.

“Won’t be easy.” He said.

“Is it ever?” I retorted. “We got this.”

“Yeah we do.” He said “but right now… I want to go on that swing again.”

“You’re on.” I said swimming after him. We got home later than we thought and stuck to leftover pizza for dinner while they watched a movie. Overall the perfect end to a great day.

The Following Morning…

It was a Wednesday which meant it was ‘not a date’ date day. Unfortunately I had to get through my weekly staff meeting beforehand.

“So I’ve been working with accounting and according to their new projections if we keep up what we’ve been doing, we’ll be cutting it close but we should just about make it to next year.” I said.

“And in the meantime we just have to deal with all of our agents complaining.” Hill said.

“You can’t make everyone happy.” I said.

“They should be grateful they still have jobs.” Fury said. “A few contacts of mine in Eastern Europe came through. Spotted Rumlow asking around. Apparently he’s been taking jobs.”

“He’s a hired hitman? Well he does have the skillset. Though I thought he was inside the Triskelion when one of the carriers crashed into it. That must’ve done some damage.” I said.

“It did.” Hill said showing me a photo of his new mask and outfit that was fitted with augmented braces and a mask. “He goes by Crossbones now.”

“Course he does. Is he wearing stolen tech?” I asked.

“Stolen tech he stole from the black market.” Fury said. “We’re trying to track him down but he’s a slippery bastard.”

“With more lives than a cat.” I said. “Stay on him and if you need additional resources or muscle let me know. I’ll move some stuff around. Is there anything else?”

“That’s it for now.” Hill said.

“Alright then.” I said grabbing my things and heading to my office. I was in there getting started when Bucky walked in.

“Morning.” He said with a small smile as he put down a cup of coffee on my desk.

“Morning and Thank you” I said picking up the coffee.

“Busy morning?” Bucky asked.

“Just the usual weekly staff meeting.” I said checking my email to see if there was anything that needed my immediate attention but there was nothing. “And… I’ve got nothing else.”

“It’s not even ten yet.” Bucky said.

“Yeah… Are you doing anything?” I asked.

“I was going to work out.” He said before quickly adding. “But I can do that later.”

“There’s a really good farmer’s market in the city, Big variety of fruit. They might still have plums?” I said.

“Yeah?” Bucky asked liking the idea.

“I was thinking we go, drop off the car at Will’s place, I can stock his fridge while we’re at it and then see where we end up?” I said. “Make a day out of it?”

Bucky was quiet and just stared at me deep in though but he had a really intense gaze so I though he didn’t like the idea.

“Or we can just so what we usually do. No pressure.” I said.

“Would this be… Are you asking me out on a date?” Bucky asked.

“Uh… Maybe?” I said.

“I was going to ask you out again.” He said blushing slightly.

“Guess I beat you to it.” I said smiling. “Is that a yes?”

“Yes.” Bucky said before looking down at his outfit. “Should I change?”

“No you look great.” I said I looked down at my outfit. I was wearing a white top with flutter sleeves and a light grey striped pencil skirt with a bow at the waist and pointed toe nude heels. “Unless you don’t feel comfortable. I should actually change my shoes I think I have a pair in my car.”

“Should I grab a jacket?” He asked.

“We might be out late.” I said as my phone dinged. “Need to answer that email quickly.”

“I’ll go grab my jacket. Meet you in the garage?” Bucky asked.

“Okay.” I said smiling quickly going to answer that email. I was less formal than I normally am, but I hate repetitive bureaucratic bullshit. Especially when I sent them the file days ago because I was way ahead on my workload and they were too busy trying to catch up and couldn’t be bothered to look for it. No wonder this place was almost bankrupt.

Once I was done I headed to the common room to fill up my thermos when Steve walked in.

“Hayley, I was just about to go to your office.” He said.

“I’m on my way out.” I said.

“But it’s not even ten yet?” Steve said frowning.

“What do you need Steve?” I said wanting to end this ASAP, Bucky was probably waiting for me already.

“I filled out a request for a field op.” He said. “I don’t know if you got the chance to read through it yet. I think it could really…”

“I read it. Request denied.” I said closing up my thermos.

“But… Did you even read it?” Steve said frustrated.

“Steve I can read and memorize a five hundred page book word for word in under two minutes. I read your request just like I read all the other requests that have been submitted. The answer is still no.” I said.

“You can’t just ignore obvious problems we can do something about. It’s our job to help.” Steve said.

“I forwarded that intel to the proper authorities because it’s way below our pay grade and at the moment we don’t have the resources to spare.” I said.

“I don’t think it’s fair that you’re taking out your personal feeling against me at work.” Steve said.

“I’m going to pretend I didn’t just hear that because I’m a professional and I’m also your boss. And may I remind you, your actions and mismanagement of this organization are what landed you in this predicament. You’re on thin ice already. That ice breaks and you’re done. There is no life line. We can’t afford one.” I said. “Do you understand Captain?”

“Yes ma’am.” Steve said

“Good.” I said grabbing my coffee and my phone as I walked out. “Friday forward all calls to my office to my phone and filter them so it’s only in case of an emergency.”

“Yes boss. Shall I activate the Banshee protocol?” She asked.

“Yes please. And alert me if it is activated.” I said as I got to the garage where Bucky was waiting. “Ready?”

“Yeah… I uh. I didn’t tell Steve.” Bucky said looking nervous, probably not knowing how I’d react at the mention of Steve’s name.

“Oh don’t worry. Tony invented Friday for situations like this.” I said as we got into the car. We buckled up and I started the engine. “Ready?”

Bucky just nodded.

“Hold on.” I said. “Friday can you tell Steve Bucky and I are going into the city and won’t be back until later?”

“Yes boss.” Friday said and I slammed my foot on the gas pedal. Pretty sure that was over kill but I wouldn’t put it past Steve to run after us. Bucky was having a good day, I wasn’t going to let Steve bring him down.

Bucky didn’t look at all terrified, in fact he was smiling. I think I heard a chuckle at one point.

I did slow down once we were far enough away.

“Okay we made it out, Now want to pick out something to listen to? We’re going to be in the car for a while.”

“I’ve been listening to the playlists. I’m going decade by decade and I just started the sixties.” Bucky said.

“How are you liking it so far?” I said.

“I like it. The beat is faster but still familiar. Songs are a lot more about the lyrics than the actual music. Rock reminds me a lot of swing music.” He said. “Not all of it is for dancing.”

“Times change. So did dancing. Finding a song to just listen in the background to reflect your mood helps get you through the day.” I said. “Also if you want to be left alone. Play some heavy metal really loud. Nothing scares off people faster than that.”

“Is heavy metal the music that sounds like a machine and not instruments?” Bucky asked.

“No that’s electronic music, that’s dance music. Heavy metal is… I think you should hear it.” I said turning down the volume of the cars speaker system and picking a song.

“AHHHHHH!” A scream played through the speaker and Bucky jumped before he winces.

“It’s two minutes of that and some yelling.” I said.

“That’s… loud.” Bucky said.

“I used to blast that when I was cramming for an exam.” I said. “Good way to stay awake.”

“I think Hydra used that for torture.” Bucky said.

I was quiet for a minute.

“Hadrian did too.” I said. “So I started listening to it so when he used it to keep me awake it wouldn’t bother me as much.”

We spent the rest of the car ride taking turns picking songs. Bucky alternated between old swing music to a few songs from the sixties. He liked a few of the Beatles songs so I’d switch it up and show him modern covers of those songs. Some he liked and others he thought the original was better.

There wasn’t a lot of traffic so we managed to get to the market before noon. It was definitely bigger and more stocked than the market closer to the compound but it was also more crowded.

Bucky didn’t say anything but I could tell he was a lot more anxious. He was constantly on alert and watching the move every person in close proximity to us made. He was constantly checking all the exits and the spaces between vendor stalls.

“Hey Bucky do you think I should get some apples or berries? I have a recipe for a tart I want to try out…” I said looking up at him but he was glaring at something or someone in the stall across from us. “Bucky?”

“Hm?” He said snapping out of it.

“Fruit tarts? Berries or apples?” I said.

“UH Steve likes apples.” Bucky said.

“Do you want apples?” I said.

“Uhuh.” He said still distracted and a bit overwhelmed.

“Bucky.” I said gently touching his hand to get his attention. “Do you need a break?”

He didn’t say anything just looked down. I threaded my fingers with his and gently squeezed his hand.

“I’ll take two bunches of apples and one of berries.” I said quickly paying and taking the fruit. Bucky didn’t let go of my hand. His fingers were twitching and his thumb moving back and forth against my thumb. “Come on, how about a pressed juice?”

Bucky gave me a strained smile but nodded.

The stand was surprisingly empty when we got there. I got us both some carrot orange juice and then found us a bench to sit on.

“It’s busier than I thought it’d be.” I said. “Sorry.”

“No, I uh… just haven’t gotten used to crowds yet.” He said sipping his juice.

“Well we pretty much grabbed everything we wanted. Even plums.” I said.

“They’re really sweet.” Bucky said.

“Maybe I could use them for a tart?” I asked.

“That could be good.” He said before his stomach started growling and he blushed.

“I think your stomach agrees.” I said. “It’s almost lunch time. I think I know a spot you’re going to like. We can stop by Will’s apartment and leave this stuff then head over there.”

“Okay.” Bucky said standing up.

“Do you want to walk or use the subway?” I asked.

“Is the subway faster?” He asked.

“Yeah, we could be at the apartment in ten minutes.” I said. “But I don’t mind walking. The weather is nice.”

“Subway.” Bucky said offering me his hand to help me stand up and took the bags with everything we had bought.

I held his hand as we walked side by side on the streets. Then when we got to more crowded areas like the subway entrance I stepped in front of him while my hand was behind me holding his as I shielded Bucky from the crowd. It probably looked weird, my five feet and a couple of inches shielding a six foot tall super soldier with a metal arm that had torn cars to shreds but I didn’t care. Bucky was facing his fears and came all this way with me. I was going to do whatever I could to make him even the slightest bit more comfortable.

Once we got on the train we decided to stay standing just grabbing onto a pole. It wasn’t too packed but once we got to the first stop people piled in and it was a tight squeeze. It didn’t help that people were rude and just pushed me aside so when the train started moving I fell against Bucky.

“Wah!” I shrieked as I put my hands on Bucky’s chest to steady myself without thinking of it.

Bucky put metal arm around me holding me up against him.

We stayed like that for a minute and I slowly put my arms around him hugging him. I felt Bucky’s breathing hitch a bit. I thought he didn’t like it and that I had over stepped but when I tried to step away he pulled me back against him. Cue to me blushing.

It was nice and he was really warm. Probably a super soldier thing. I was tempted to just stay there and miss our stop but we were hungry.

“This is our stop.” I told Bucky taking his metal hand and leading him out. Once we were in the street. I didn’t let go of his hand. He didn’t say anything or tried to let go. I did catch him looking at our hands a few times as I filled him in on some of the stores and restaurants on the street in case he had a craving for anything specific.

When we got to the apartment I put away the things I had bought for Will. As well as some of the perishables we had bought.

“I think that’s everything.” I said.

Bucky was just staring at me deep in thought.

“Bucky?” I said noticing he was still in a bit of a daze.

“You were holding my hand.” He said.

“Uh yeah. We’ve held hands before.” I said.

“You were holding my hand.” He said again and I still didn’t get what was wrong. “The metal one.”

“I was.” I confirmed still not getting it. I knew that was a bit of a sore subject and it never really came up. I just held his hand because… I wanted to hold his hand. I didn’t care which one. Then it hit me. I was leading him maybe I pulled it to hard and his shoulder hurt. “Wait did I hurt you? I didn’t think I pulled your arm but maybe…”

“No I’m… no.” Bucky said. “It didn’t…bother you?”

“Why would it bother me?” I asked.

“It’s not like the other one. It’s cold, hard… it’s the one they…” He said before looking down.

So that was the problem.

“Bucky the arm doesn’t bother me, it’s never bothered me… except you know for that one time with the…” I said gesturing to my neck and he paled. “Too soon sorry. Let me start over.”

“That’s the hand that almost killed you. I almost snapped your neck.” Bucky said as he started hyperventilating.

“Okay I think we need to sit down for a minute.” I said slowly walking closer to him. “I’m going to put my hand on your back okay?”

Bucky didn’t say anything but he didn’t flinch when I did. Slowly I led him to sit down on the couch while I sat on the coffee table.

“I shouldn’t have brought up how we met for the first time.” I said. “I tend to be very sarcastic sometimes. But I meant what I said your hand doesn’t bother me.”

“It’s not my hand. It’s the one they put on me so that I would use to do whatever they wanted.” Bucky said.

“That wasn’t you. They brain washed you.” I said.

“It was still me. My hand.” He said.

I took his metal hand and linked my fingers with his before lifting the hand up.

“Do you want to hurt me?” I asked him.

“What?” Bucky said.

“If you wanted to right now. You could crush my hand without breaking a sweat and there wouldn’t be a single thing I could do about it.” I said. “Do you want to do that?”

“No!” Bucky said trying to pull his hand away but I put mine other hand over his and stopped him.

“You control this hand. It’s not the one you were born with and it wasn’t your choice to have them put it on you but you’re the one that controls it and they were the ones that controlled you. It was never your choice. You weren’t in control but you are now.” I said. “I did a lot of things growing up I did it out of fear, out of trying to survive or to protect people I care about. I can’t change what I did but I can try to be better. They made that arm so they could use it as a weapon now it’s your choice. Is it a weapon, Is it a tool or is it just a hand?”

With that I let him go.

“And I held it because I wanted to hold your hand. I didn’t see a difference between one or the other.” I said. “So Lunch?”

“Yeah.” Bucky said giving me this look I couldn’t really figure out what it was. It was soft and his eyes twinkled a bit. I stood up and Bucky did the same. Slowly he reached for my hand with his flesh one. I looked up at him giving him a small smile which he returned. He lowered his head and our noses touched. Bucky stopped and looked into my eyes to see if this was okay, which it most certainly was, before pressing his lips against mine. It was gentle. As if he just feeling it out at first I smiled and kissed him back. He became more confident and sure of what he was doing.

And wow…

For someone that hadn’t had any practice in over seventy years he was a really good kisser. He put his other arm around me pulling me closer as I moved a hand up to his shoulder while my other hand went around his waist.

Eventually we broke the kiss before I was getting a bit lightheaded from lack of air.

“Uh…” Bucky started. “Lunch?”

“Yeah.” I said giving him one last peck on the lips before letting go of him grabbing my bag and keys before we were out the door.

Meanwhile- Third Person’s POV

Steve was wandering through the compound. Since he wasn’t allowed on any missions he had a lot of time to think. Mainly about how his recovering prisoner of war soulmate had left the compound without him. How Hayley had taken him without even giving him a heads up…

He was frustrated. He had already gone through half a dozen sandbags in the gym, written the damage report for the damaged equipment and done all his paperwork.

The team were going through their morning workouts. Natasha was sparring with Wanda. Rhodey and Sam were toying with their suits and Vison was reading or observing everyone.

He was feeling restless so he started wandering through the compound until he ended up in Communications looking over all the current Ops. There weren’t many and he was about to leave when heard something.

“Hey have we got anything going on in Malta?” One of the agents asked another.

“Uh nothing at the moment.” The other answered.

“You’re kidding right? I put in a request to send a team to intercept a cargo shipment.” The other said.

“Yeah it probably got denied. The new boss isn’t approving anything lately.” The other said.

“Seriously? Shit. I just heard from my guy that the cargo is actually people. They’re human traffickers.” They said.

“Excuse me.” Steve said.

“Captain Rogers.” They both said on alert.

“Sorry I couldn’t help but overhear what you were saying. What exactly is the situation with the human traffickers.” He said. The agents exchanged looked before filling him in.

Now most people with even slightest hint of common sense knew that they should have left it alone but Steve wasn’t most people. So when he had all the intel, or at least all the intel he thought he needed he went to go find Natasha who was in the shooting range with Clint.

“Hey you busy?” Steve said before Natasha fired off another three rounds finishing the clip.

“Not anymore.” She said. “What’s up?”

“I think we have a mission.” He said.

“Did Hayley finally unground you?” Natasha said.

“She’s not here. She’s in the city with Bucky.” Clint said letting off another arrow that hit the target dead center even without him not looking. “She sent a text and she’s bringing pizza.”

“If she didn’t approve it you can’t go.” Natasha said. “You remember what happened last time.”

“Yeah.” Steve winced but we don’t have time for any of that and she’s not answering her phone. “Fury and Hill are in DC in meetings too.”

“What’s the mission?” Natasha asked.

“Human trafficking ring in Malta.” Steve said handing her a file. “There’s an exchange that’s taking place tonight in their port. A shipping container full of people they’re going to move.”

“That’s a lot of security just to move one container. Enhanced?” Natasha asked.

“Possibly.” Steve said. “No way to be sure except to go.”

“Well you can’t take a jet.” Clint said. “The new security system.”

“Is it possible to hack?” Steve said.

“You want to go against Hayley’s orders on a mission that hasn’t been sanctioned?” Natasha said.

“There are people’s lives at stake.” Steve said as Clint read over Natasha’s shoulder.

“They’re kids.” Clint said low enough for only Natasha to hear but with super soldier hearing Steve also heard.

“Does she know about this?” Natasha asked.

“She wasn’t picking up and there isn’t time.” Steve said.

“Hayley’s better at programming than I am. The coding and encryption on the new security system are more than I can crack. Let me look through Friday’s protocols to see if there’s a way to bypass them.” Natasha said.

“I’ll go tell the team.” Steve said.

“Not the whole team.” Clint said. “These are your run of the mill guys. You need to prioritize stealth. You don’t want any civilians hurt in the crossfire.”

“A few agents. Sam’s been meaning to try out that redwing prototype Tony made.” Steve said. “We could use your help.”

“I’m in.” Clint said.

A Few Minutes Later…

“I don’t know how Hayley can focus on all of these screens at once.” Clint said as Natasha was going through her drawers to get the key to the server room.

“Get injected with an experimental serum that will slowly turn your brain to mush and you’ll find out.” She deadpanned as she found the keycard. “got it.”

“You think this is a good idea?” Clint said.

“You agreed to come with us. Are you having doubts?” Natasha said. “Afraid you got rusty?”

“Not that just seems weird that something like this was never on Hales’ radar.” Clint said.

“She’s been a bit busy keeping this place afloat.” Natasha said.

“Yeah. And recreating crime scenes in our living room.” Clint said and Natasha just gave him a confused look. “Tell you later.”

They made their way to the server room and Natasha got into Friday’s protocols.

“Oh that’s not good.” Natasha said.

“You can’t get into the system?” Steve said.

“No, you’d need a super computer and a couple of hours or another Hayley and ten minutes to do that.” Natasha said.

“So we’re stranded.” Clint said.

“Not necessarily.” Natasha said. “Apparently the Banshee protocol is integrated into the auto-pilot.”

“Auto pilot flies the plane but it also starts the plane.” Clint said.

“We’d have to take out the autopilot, hotwire the quinjet and fly it manually there and back.” Natasha said.

“How long would that take?” Steve said.

“Taking out the autopilot and leaving the jet in working condition… half an hour.” Natasha said exchanging looks with Clint and he nodded.

“I can hotwire the jet in less than two minutes easy.” Clint said.

“Get it done and suit up.” Steve said.

Back in the City…

“Okay we’ve got, falafel, we’ve got crepes, tacos, oh remind me to get some beignets to take home.” I said.

“Food trucks.” Bucky said.

“Yeah, they’ve got something for everyone and a great view.” I said looking out into the Hudson and enjoying the view. “What are you in the mood for?”

“Everything sounds good.” Bucky said.

“So little bit of everything?” I offered and Bucky smiled.

We started at the Taco truck. I was in the mood for some fish tacos and Bucky went with two asada tacos. I added a bit of guacamole while bucky debated what sauce to add.

“What the difference between the red and green sauce?” He asked.

“The green one has tomatillos in it and the red I’m guessing tomatoes with the chili.” I said. Bucky opted for the red one and added a generous amount. “Careful it’s really spicy.”

“A little heat never hurt anyone.” Bucky said with a smirk before he took a bite.

Not even ten second later he started coughing. He was tearing up and his face was red.

“Water.” He gasped out as he panted.

“No here.” I said grabbing a lime and putting some salt on it. “Bite this it’ll help.”

Bucky took it and bit into it.

“Uh.” He said still teared up. “I might get the green sauce next time.”

“Or the guacamole.” I said.

Next stop was the falafel truck. I opted for a small order of falafel while bucky got a kebob.

“No falafel is complete without the yogurt sauce.” I said.

“Think the taco truck will let me put their guacamole on this?” Bucky said before he bit into another piece.

“With some nachos?” I suggested and Bucky nodded.

We split an order of loaded barbacoa nachos. I gave Bucky all of the jalapeños. He ate one and put the rest aside.

I got some beignets for the road and we split a crepe with Nutella and strawberries. We took a walk by the river as the sun started setting. The perfect ending to a perfect date. We were enjoying the sunset when my phone rang.

“hello?” I answered.

“Hey were you in the apartment?” Will asked.

“Yeah, it was a slow day so Bucky and I spent the day in the city. I stocked your fridge.” I said.

“I saw that and you brought me hummus.” He said. “You guys still here?”

“Yeah went to the food trucks.” I said.

“OH come back we can grab drinks at the bar. It’s trivia night and my guys going to be here.” Wil said.

“He is?” I said faking excitement.

“Yes. Oh come on Hayley we barely spend anytime together now that you live in the country…” Will started.

“A farm upstate.” I corrected.

“And work as a full time nanny.” Will said.

“Avengers CEO.” I said. “But I get your point. I’ll see if Bucky is up for it.”

“I’ll grab us a booth.” Will said hanging up.

“So that was Will.” I said. “How do you feel about going to a bar? We totally don’t have to go if you don’t want to.”

“It’s okay.” Bucky said. “A beer sounds good.”

“You sure? We can go whenever you want.” I said.

“Will’s boyfriend going to be there?” Bucky said knowing how much that guy bugged me.

“Yeah.” I said. “We might get lucky, and it’s trivia night.”

“Can’t miss that.” Bucky said. “Let’s go.”

SO we did. The bar was busy like it always was. People in their teams and Will at ouy usual booth.

“Hayley!” Will cheered picking me up in a hug. “Oh I missed you.”

“Missed you too.” I said hugging him back.

“Bucky, good to see you.” Will said shaking his hand.

“Hi.” Bucky said.

“I ordered a pitcher of beer for the table.” Will said. “The usual.”

“None for me. I’m driving.” I said.

“Course.” Will said. “Bucky?”

“I’ll have one.” He said.

“So where is your guy?” I said.

“Uh, he got held up at work.” Will said. “Apparently they’re about to release a new line of outerwear gear. Thinks we should go camping Labor day weekend.”

“You go camping?” I said.

“I know.” Will said. “But I wanted to cross that off my bucket list.”

“Your bucket list or the other bucket list?” I asked.

“Both.” Will said.

“Well that’s going to be fun.” I said. “You know if he doesn’t murder you and dump your body in a lake.”

“Like that would ever happen.” Will said.

“Said every murder victim ever. Hey maybe you end up getting your own Netflix crime documentary?” I said.

“The perils of online dating.” Will said.

“I thought you said you met him at a coffee shop?” I said.

“Hales, I never get my own coffee. I always send the intern to get it.” Will said.

“Aw I remember those days. Going to buy Tony’s underwear, picking up his dry cleaning, putting out his fires both literally and metaphorically. Feels like a lifetime ago.” I said.

“Your anniversary’s coming up isn’t it?” Will said.

“Mine and Tony’s.” I said.

“Have you figured out what you’re going to get him?” Will said. “Wait what do you even give the guy who owns everything?”

“I have to get creative but I’m pretty sure I nailed this year.” I said before the trivial game started.

It was actually really good Bucky came with us. He added a couple of items on his pop culture catch up list and Will was really helpful catching him up on momentous rock history.

We were just about to start the lightning round when my phone started ringing. It was from the office and if Friday was forwarding it to me I knew it was important.

“Ah shoot. You guys are going to have to do this without me. It’s work.” I said.

“Hales it’s the lightning round. I want free wings.” Will said.

“I’ll handle it.” I said going to the back. “Hello?”

“Hayley Adams I’m presuming?” Someone said.

“Yes, who am I…” I started.

“What the fuck were you thinking? You and your team just ruined a two year op…” he started

“Whoa slow down. Who the are you and what are you talking about?” I said.

“You are the Hayley Adams that is responsible for the Avengers correct?” They said.

“Yes, who are you?” I said.

“I’m Luca Bauer from Interpol. I’m stationed in Malta were your team just took over our Op.” He said angrily.

“Are you absolutely sure it was my team?” I said just making sure this wasn’t a mistake.

“Only one man wears stars and stripes to a stealth op and uses a disk painted like a target with a star in the center. I can send you a picture if you need it.” Luca said.

“Fucking Steve.” I said. “I’m going to have to call you back.”

With that I hung up the phone and went back to the table.

“Hey Bucky how mad would you be at me if I murdered Steve?” I said and Bucky just stared at me with an arched eyebrow.

“What did he do?” Bucky asked.

“Not entirely sure yet, but I just got an angry call from an Interpol agent so nothing good. I have to go deal with that.” I said.

“Need me to come with?” Will said.

“I think I’ve got it, I’ll let you know if I’ll need you at the compound tomorrow.” I said. “Sorry to cut trivia night short.”

“Downside of being the boss.” Will said.

Hours Later…

To say they had fucked up would be an understatement. It was a clusterfuck. My phone would not stop ringing. I had Luca from Interpol, the state department, the CIA, MI6, the Maltese government and the foundation and they were all pissed.

I hadn’t called them and I threatened to fire anyone in comms if they told the jet I knew what happened or that I was waiting for them.

I was in the hanger when the jet landed.

“Okay it was an honest mistake. No harm done and it’s still early Hayley is probably still in the city.” Steve said.

“Or she could be standing at the door looking really angry.” Sam said and everyone turned to me as I glared at Steve.

“Of course sir. The situation will be rectified. Consequences? You bet there’ll me consequences.” I said before hanging.

“Hayley.” Steve said. “We were just…”

“Coming back from Malta? I’ve heard.” I said before facing the agents and of course Sharon was there. “You six, I don’t remember seeing you on the roster for any missions. In fact there isn’t a roster for this mission.”

“Hayley they were just…” Steve started.

“Shut up.” I told Steve.

“You’re all suspended.” I said.

“You can’t…” Sharon started.

“One more word and it’ll be without pay. You six know the protocol. You went on an unsanctioned mission. You’re lucky you’re not fired or in jail. Out.” I said. They all quickly got out of the jet.

Then I turned to Sam.

“Wingman. Hope you had fun because I’m clipping your wings. You’re grounded. Out.” I said. “Oh and you’re going to be the one that calls and tells Tony you lost his unfinished prototype. Half a million at the bottom of the Mediterranean.”

“Sorry.” Sam said as he walked out and I turned my attention to Natasha, Clint and Steve.

“You three my office now.” I said walking out of the jet just as my phone started ringing again. I picked it up trying to pacify a very angry Maltese man.

“I’m just going to ask, What the fuck were you three thinking?!” I said.

“Intel came in and there wasn’t any time.” Steve said.

“Wasn’t any time? Did you even try to call me?” I asked.

“How was I supposed to get ahold of you? You were out on your date.” Steve spat out and Natasha and Clint exchanged looks knowing exactly what had happened.

“What about Hill and Fury? Or even asking Friday because she could have told you that I did get that intel report as well as the request to send in a team but that I turned it down because after checking the databases of every major intelligence organization I saw that Interpol was working on this for two years and that they had almost a dozen of their agents deeply undercover working on dismantling the organization from within. And they were close too but you just had to go didn’t you. Idiot.” I said.

“Hayley we saw the intel, we were led to believe that enhanced people..” Natasha started.

“Natasha I expect this type of stupid pig headed recklessness from him but you? You’re his second in command it’s your job to call him out on his bullshit. I expected more from you. You’re the best spy in the world act like it.”

“It was my idea.” Steve started.

“Shut up. I’ll get to you in a minute.” I said. “You helped him. You went into Friday’s protocols. You broke into my office and stole my key card. You disabled the autopilot and uninstalled it and then you went and broke the arm of an Interpol agent and sent another one into the hospital because you tased him and it triggered a cardiac episode. You’re not grounded only because you are now in charge of training all the baby agents in everything including flight training.”

Natasha paled at that and Clint chuckled.

“Why the fuck are you laughing?” I said. “You’re helping her and you’re doing the paperwork, Mister I can hotwire a quinjet in under two minutes easy? Really Clint?”

“I…” he started.

“Out!” I said pointing to the door. He and Natasha walked out.

“Uh about that pizza?” Clint started before Natasha smacked his arm. “Ow!”

“Now it’s your turn.” I told Steve. “Do you have any idea the fucking mess you made? I have Interpol, the state department, the Maltese government and MI6 on the fucking line out for blood because you jumped the gun again. How many times did I tell you to stay put? How Many!?”

“I thought we could help.” He said.

“You thought you could help? You not only ruined the op in Malta, you compromised at least a dozen under cover agents. Undid almost two years of work to take down a human trafficking ring that operated across half the Mediterranean and caused an international incident that put us back in the spotlight just as we were starting to undo the PR damage from Sokovia and Johannesburg.” I said.

“I’m sorry I didn’t think…” Steve started.

“That much was obvious. You’re a leader and great tactician on the battlefield. But you’re not a spy. You lack the finesse and the tact. Honestly you’re just fucking up all around and you’re a liability we can’t afford anymore. The board wants you out and I have to agree with them” I said.

“What?!” Steve said. “Hayley you can’t do that.”

“Yes I can and I am. I’ve been patient with you. I’ve explained time and time again why things are being done the way they are and you just don’t listen. I can’t do my job and clean up your messes. I shouldn’t have to. Effective immediately you’re on leave.” I said. “You’ll be required to leave the premises in the morning. Money won’t be an issue for you, you’ll receive your salary like usual.”

“What am I supposed to do?” Steve said. “I live here.”

“I don’t know Steve. Go to Hawaii, climb Mount Everest, go commune with nature, hell go visit Peggy maybe she can talk some sense into your stubborn geriatric ass.” I said. “You just can’t be here.”

“For how long?” He asked.

“As long as it takes for all of this to blow over so two or three weeks plus however long it takes me to get over this and convince the board to take you back and when you get back you’ll need to be cleared by a psychologist. We can’t afford another incident like this.” I said as all the lines of my phone started blinking signaling that there was someone on hold. “You’re dismissed.”

“I’m sorry Hayley.” Steve said.

“Go pack Steve.” I said picking up the phone. “I’m sorry about the wait. The team just arrived…”

Hours Later…

It was one or two in the morning and I was still answering calls and arranging a team to be sent out to go chase leads to help Interpol take out that human trafficking ring. Then the Maltese government threatened to sue so I had to call the foundation to figure out reparations and then I had more calls.

“The foundation exists for this very purpose…” I said just as Clint peaked in holding a plate of pizza and a coffee.

“Of course. I’ll check on that.” I said hanging up. “Uh…”

“They’re still going at it?” Clint asked.

“What do you think?” I retorted.

“It’s kind of late.” He said slowly putting a plate of pizza and coffee on my desk. “Didn’t know if you had dinner also thought you might need some coffee.”

“Thanks.” I said.

“Hales it’s getting kind of late. I thought maybe you might want to go home…” Clint started as my phone started ringing again.

“Adams.” I answered. “No we are not releasing a statement. We wants this under wraps at all cost. Then close off the sight, the Maltese don’t want the world to know they export women and children. They come off looking just as bad as us. Get it done.”

“You were saying?” I asked.

“You need sleep.” Clint said. “Come on.”

“You go ahead.” I said. “I need to finish up a few things here and I need to move stuff around budget wise to cover the cost of the agents I’m sending over to replace the agents that were compromised. Also have to make sure the press doesn’t get ahold of this and the Maltese are threatening to sue so there’s that.”

“I can wait.” Clint said.

“You should go. No point in both of us being sleep deprived.” I said. “I’ll wrap this up. Shouldn’t be more than an hour.”

“Okay.” Clint said hugging me. “I’m sorry.”

“Stop reminding me.” I said. “I’m still mad at you.”

“I know.” He said. “I’ll wait for you at home. Don’t take too long.”

“No promises.” I said as the phone started ringing again and I groaned. “Adams.”