PARADOX

A couple days went by and I was the one who helped Bucky regain his memories. He didn't acknowledge Steve enough to trust him and everyone else was... not trusted too. So, I had to be the one who enlightened with him and educated him about each Avenger. He learned about their abilities and their techniques. I studied a few things too. Learned new combat skills and new ways to use my weapons.

My time with Tony was limited. He spent his time mostly at the Avengers Tower than at the new base. I trained here with people who has similar abilities, which made sense. But I missed having Tony around. Plus, I missed creating things that would make Tony fly out of the roof. But today, I got to spend time with him.

Tony came over to see how we were doing. Everyone was improving. Since the twins were younger than us, we had to keep our eyes on them the most. Clint mostly watched over them like a father, which made it very heartwarming. Bucky was retaining bits of his past. Steve was helping me and Natasha would help Clint. Unfortunately, Thor and Bruce still weren't here.

That night, Tony decided to throw a party. Which he is famous for, anyone would do anything to get into his parties. But if you know him well enough, you wouldn't want to see the great Tony Stark drunk. He's a handful and I will have to be the one who had to deal with that package.

I had no experience about partying. My whole life was dedicated to work. What do you even do at parties? Bucky refused to come, no matter how much I tried to convince him. He was left in his room, but he did agree that I'd check on him once in awhile. I wore something comfy and casual. Put my hair up and only wore a bit of makeup. When I came down from my room, the living room was dimmed and a load of alcohol was on the table. As I walked down the stairs, Tony marched into the open in his Iron Man suit.

"Tony, please tell me you aren't already drunk. We haven't even started yet!"

Tony stepped out of his suit and walked closer to me. He held out his hand and I accepted it willingly. Tony twirled me and guided me to an open space. Soft music played in the background and everyone came in one by one. Me and Tony stopped dancing and went over to talk to the other members. I teased Natasha about having a small crush on Bruce. I assured her that he'll come back. I did miss him too. Clint told me about the time where they all tried to lift Mjolnir. When everyone gathered at the bar, I went to check on Bucky. I strolled through the dusky hallways until I reached his room. My hand turned the doorknob and gazed upon the bed that was near the door. He wasn't relaxing there, so I searched the rest of the room. The room was clear and my forehead started to form beads of sweat. Where could he have gone? I was panicking and found a note by one of the pillows. I picked up the note and opened it up to find Bucky's handwriting.

'(Y/N), Thank you for bringing me along to find Steve. But my memories are just all jumbled up and I have to leave before I hurt you all. Don't tell anyone else that I left. I'm sure no one will notice. I'll be roaming around Vienna. Thank you for believing in me. But I'll have to find my memories on my own. Bye for now.

-Bucky'

I stuffed the note into my pocket and headed back to where everyone was. When I arrived, everyone was wasted except Cap. I told him that I was calling it a night. I trudged to my room and a few minutes later Cap barged in asking where Bucky was.

"He told me not to tell you," I mumbled as the truth was creeping up my throat. Steve then sat beside me and attempted to persuade me that he cares for Bucky also. I know how much Steve has worked to find his best friend and how much he would give to have him back. But I didn't make any promises. "He's on his way to Vienna. But I'm going with you."

"How do you know I'll go after him?" Cap sneered.

"I know."

Our trip to Vienna wasn't until later that week. We both had to give in our savings to pay for our tickets. I didn't want Tony noticing. But today, the Avengers had a reception with Thaddeus Ross, a secretary of state. He explained to us that the Avengers were getting more heedless. That we should strive for the government or that we choose to retire. Tony clearly wanted to save lives and not give up his suits, which I understood. But I agreed with Steve that, what if there was something more important that what we're assigned? Steve, Falcon, Wanda, Pietro, and I were the only ones who didn't sign the contract.

"I guess this is goodbye then," I spoke to Tony as I clasped his hands in mine. His brown majestic eyes were always so fine that it made my heart drop that I won't be able to see them again soon. I'll be busy rummaging for my friend and I won't be in the US. My lips brushed his cheek and left. "I love you, Tony Stark."