#alisonwritesimagines

The mission turned a dark turn when more Hydra soldiers ambushed you unexpectedly.

"Gonna need some backup here," you say into the comms as the Hydra soldiers began to shoot at you. You hid behind a pillar as you reached into your pocket. You pulled out your dice container to see you only had one dice left.

Your dice were your best hidden weapon. Whatever number it laded on, the amount of force would be used against your opponents. While one was enough to blind people, six was usually what you wanted for this situation.

“Fuck,” you mumbled.

"I'm on my way," you heard Bucky say.

You looked back at the Hydra soldiers before tossing your last dice over to them.

“Please land on a six,” you mumbled. You watched as it landed on a five before it exploded, sending the soldiers to fly back. You smiled before turning to see a soldier in front of you.

“Oh shit,” you sighed. The soldiers quickly grabbed you by the throat before throwing you to the side. You kicked his legs, knocking him down as you quickly got up. You felt someone grab you, making you look to see more soldiers appear. They slammed you against the wall hard, making you groan in pain.

“Thought you could defeat us huh?” The soldier taunted. You saw from the corner of your eye as Bucky showed up.

Bucky watched as your body was thrown back against the wall. Hard. He could hear your groan as you tried to get up. Before he could go to you, he felt him take over.

You heard gunshots and yelling as you slowly woke up. You turned to your side to see Bucky fighting killing the people that attacked you.

"Bucky," you say weakly.

Your vision began to blur a little. But you managed to see Sam fly over to you. He picked you up gently but you let out a small whimper in pain.

The Winter Soldier's head snapped over to you as he watched Sam carry you. The Winter Soldier aimed his gun at him.

"It's okay. I'm just gonna bring her to the Quinjet," Sam tells Bucky quickly. Or at least who he thought was Bucky.

"не трогай ее (Don't touch her)," the Winter Soldier says to Sam.

Sam's eyes widen a little.

"Cap. We got a code snow," Sam tells into the comms. You heard the code as you struggled to stay awake.

Code Snow. Bucky turned back to the Winter Soldier.

"Where are you?" Steve asked as he finished fighting off two Hydra agents.

"Second floor in the computer room. Y/n's badly injured," Sam explained.

"I'm on my way. Try to get her to the Quinjet," Steve said.

"Soldat," you weakly say. The Winter Soldier snapped his head over to your face. "Let him... take me... to get help."

The Winter Soldier watched as your head tilted back, blacking out from the blood loss and your injuries.

"Bucky!" Steve called out as he reached you three in the room. The Winter Soldier looked over at Steve as Sam took the opportunity to fly you back to the Quinjet.

"She'll be okay. Just come with us and you can stay by her side," Steve tells him. The Winter Soldier tilted his head before walking out of the room, pushing Steve aside.

The two met up with the rest of the team as they were ready to go. They got what was needed and they needed to get back to get you healed.

Everyone kept their distance as The Winter Soldier stride over towards you. You were lying down as you were unconscious. They did the best they could to prevent more blood loss.

"Friday. Alert the doctors that we got one injured badly. ETA is an hour," Tony said.

"Doctors alerted."

Once the team got back, The Winter Soldier carried you over to the infirmary. He stood close by as the doctors fixed you up. You lied asleep on the bed while The Winter Soldier never left his spot near you.

Two days later, you woke up. You looked to see that you were in the infirmary in the Avengers Tower. You looked around to see Bucky sitting next to you, watching you intensely.

"Bucky? What time is it?" You groaned a little. The Winter Soldier didn't say anything to you.

"Bucky? Are you okay? I'm fine. The guy just got me off guard," you tell him.

The Winter Soldier continued to stay in silence. You stared at Bucky before noticing Steve by your door. You tried to motion for him to come in but he shook his head. You tilted your head confused before seeing a note he had written.

Code Snow.

Your eyes widen a little. You looked at The Winter Soldier as he stared at you.

"Soldat. I'm okay. I'm healing," you tell him.

"ты пострадал (You got hurt)."

"Soldat. Speak English, please. You know I don't know Russian," you sighed. You only knew three words. Soldier, yes, and no.

"You got hurt."

"I'm okay now. You dealt with the people who hurt me right?"

"да."

"Good. Can I have Bucky now?" You asked.

"нет."

"Why not?" You asked.

"Need to make sure you're okay," he tells you.

"I'm okay now," you assure to him. The Winter Solider shook his head. You let out a sigh, knowing he wouldn't give up anytime soon.

This wasn't the first time Bucky had reverted back to the Winter Soldier. At first he fought everyone. Until you showed up. Then he became more protective. Possessive even.

And during those time, you had to wait it out. And usually, that's when you both would fall asleep. Locked in your room with The Winter Soldier holding you close to him.

Steve and Bruce suggested it was Bucky's feelings towards you that prevented the Winter Soldier from harming you. But Bruce also suggested that the Winter Soldier saw you as his handler given how close he would allow you to get to him.

"Soldat. Let a doctor come in so they can check on me," you tell him. He nodded, allowing you to press the button by your bed. You watched as a doctor walk in and check on your vitals.

"Okay. You are good to go. I highly against going on another mission right now. Let your body rest. No training until I've given the all clear. I'll see you next week for a check up," the doctor told you.

"Thank you."

You changed into some of your leisure clothes before walking out of the recovery room with The Winter Soldier staying close to you. Waiting for someone that dared to touch you.

"Y/n, you okay?" Steve asked, keeping his distance.

"Yeah. I got it covered," you tell him.

"You sure?"

"When has he ever harmed me before?" You asked.

It was true. Throughout the time you met Bucky, he was always gentle with you. Then when you experienced The Winter Soldier first hand, he never touched you. He let you touch his cheek or hold his hand but he would never make the first move.

"We'll stand by if you need us," Steve tells you.

"Will do."

You walked to your room to shower before you ate. The Winter Soldier stayed outside your room as you grabbed your clothes from the closet.

"Soldat. You can come in," you tell him from your closet.

You walked out to see him standing in the middle of your room.

"I'm gonna shower. You can stay by the door in case I need help," you tell him. He gave you a nod before you walked into your bathroom to shower.

The warm shower felt good on your body. But you were more hungry than tired. After showering and changing into some new, fresh clothes you walked out to see The Winter Soldier still standing where you left him.

"Are you hungry? Did you eat?" You asked him.

"нет."

"Come on. Let's eat. You and I both need it," you tell him, gently taking his hand in yours.

You led him to the kitchen where Wanda and Steve were at. They looked over at you and The Winter Soldier as you began to take out some ingredients to make some food. The Winter Soldier stayed nearby you as you began to prep.

"How are you feeling?" Wanda asked.

"I'm fine. I've slept long enough and I am starving," you tell her.

"And Bucky?"

"He'll come back. He always does," you say. "You two want dinner too?"

"I'm good. I already ate," Wanda tells you.

"Same here," Steve said. You nodded in response.

Because you were unconscious for two days, you didn't feel tired. You sat on the rooftop, enjoying the fresh air. What you loved about the Avengers Tower was the view of New York City.

The Winter Soldier stayed nearby, not sitting but standing guard. You looked over at him before reaching your hand out to him.

"Soldat. Come sit with me," you tell him. The Winter Soldier walked over, holding your hand with his right one. He sat in front of you, letting you continue to hold his hand in yours.

"Soldat, can I have Bucky back please?" You asked.

"нет."

"Why not?"

"Because he didn't protect you."

"He protects me well enough. I was just caught by surprise by the ambush," you tell him.

"I have to protect you," The Winter Soldier tells you.

"I'm okay. If anything, I just need to train better," you assure him.

"You need to be protected," The Winter Soldier tells you.

"I can handle myself. As much as I appreciate your protectiveness, I want Bucky back."

"Why? Why have him back when he can't protect you?"

"He can. I want him back because I need him right now," you tell him.

"Need him for what?"

"To tell him that I'm okay. That it wasn't his fault," you explain.

The Winter Soldier stared at you before shaking his head.

"Soldat. I expect him back soon. But for now, just look at the city with me," you tell him as you looked back at the skyline.

"I would never let anyone or anything hurt you," The Winter Soldier tells you. You looked over at him and smiled softly.

"I know you wouldn't. And neither would Bucky," you remind him.

You couldn't sleep until the next night. When you woke up, you felt Bucky's arm wrapped around your waist. You turned around to see Bucky asleep next to you. You gently touch his cheek, making him wake up.

"Bucky?" You asked.

"It's me sweetheart," Bucky assures to you. You kissed him softly, grateful that he was back.

"Are you okay?" You asked him.

"I should be asking you that."

"I'm fine."

"Did he hurt you?"

"He has never hurt me before. There's no difference now," you tell him. Bucky nodded before pressing his forehead against yours. He snuck in another kiss on your lips.

"You need to be more careful," Bucky tells you.

"When I'm cleared, you can train me more," you smiled softly.

"I should let Steve know that I'm okay," Bucky said, getting up. You sat up from your bed.

"Wanna take me to breakfast afterwards?" You asked.

"How can I say no to you?" Bucky asked, walking back over to kiss you.

"I'm gonna get changed then."

"I won't be long. Come rescue me if I am taking too long," Bucky joked.

The kids knew they could tell you anything. They knew you would protect them no matter what. But what if this time, they couldn't tell you. Mostly because they knew you were going to kill them.

Well not physically. But they knew they were screwed the moment they broke one of your priceless artifacts when they threw a party at the mansion while you, Bruce, and Martha went on a trip to Paris. Alfred was out as well, getting a few days off per your request.

"We're so screwed," Tim sulked as he stared at the broken antique.

It was a vintage porcelain figurine of your favorite Disney character. Bruce had gotten it for you for one of your anniversaries. And now, it was worth nothing as the face was half gone.

After throwing one of the greatest parties they ever threw, Tim was the one to find the figurine broken after waking up.

"Can we find another one?" Duke asked.

"Possibly?! Oh my God we're gonna die!" Dick says, freaking out. He knew how much it meant to you. Especially since he was there when Bruce got it for you when he was younger.

"I'm not ready to die again!" Jason freaked out.

"What do we do then?" Damien asked. Even he was stunned for once. He knew that figurine was special to you.

"I'll call Barbra to scour the internet for a replacement. Damien and Tim, hide the evidence," Dick said, taking his phone out to call Barbra.

Everyone froze when Cassandra's phone began to ring. She took it out and let out a small scream.

"It's mom!"

"Answer it but be cool!" Jason said.

"Hello?" Cassandra asked, playing it cool as instructed.

"Hi Cassandra! We're coming home early. We should be back tomorrow,"

“Oh really? Why so soon?”

“The business deal went through quickly. No surprise there. So we're coming home now," you tell her.

"Oh okay. When will you guys be home?" Cassandra asked.

"Tomorrow. Alfred knows we're coming home early too but he's gonna enjoy his extra day off. But I wanted to give you a warning."

"Okay. We're excited to see you guys again. See you soon," Cassandra says.

"See you soon sweetie! Make sure the house is clean please," you tell her.

"Will do!"

Cassandra hung up the phone and looked at the others with wide eyes.

"Guys, we are so fucked," she says, referencing Smiling Friends.

"Fuck it! Hide it until we get the replacement!" Dick yelled. "And clean up the fucking mess!"

You watched on the security tablet as your kids began to scramble around in fear.

"Everything okay?" Bruce asked.

"Your children broke the figurine you got me for our third anniversary," you tell him.

"So when they break something they're my children. But when they're perfect angels, they're yours?" Bruce asked.

"Why do you even question it?" You asked looking at him.

"How grounded are they?" Bruce asked.

"Let's see if they're able to get that figurine before we get home. If not, then three months. For breaking the figurine and also throwing a party in the manor. They'll get a month if they can find the figurine."

"Martha, promise me to never grow up," Bruce sighed as he looked at his youngest daughter.

"Okay," Martha smile as she looked up at her dad.

"Okay! Barbra found another one and it's costly but we need to get it!" Dick yelled at everyone as they cleaned up from the party.

"How much?"

"Like three hundred grand!"

"Fuck it! Get it!" Jason yelled.

"She got it!"

The house was cleaned up by the time you and Bruce got home.

"Hi kids!" You greeted as you walked in.

"Hi mom!"

"Hey, mom! Hey, Bruce."

"Father. Ummi. Welcome back."

"So did you kids do anything fun while we were gone?" you asked.

"Not really."

"Nope."

"Just studying."

The string of lies from the kids made you slightly impressed.

"Okay. I'm gonna go unpack then and get washed up. Can one of you kids help give Martha a bath?" You asked.

"I can help you mom," Cassandra says, standing up.

"Oh, before I forget, you are all grounded for a month for throwing a party and breaking my figurine your father gave me as an anniversary present," you call out.

"HOW DID YOU KNOW?!"

"HOW DID SHE FIND OUT!?"

"MOM! PLEASE FORGIVE US!"

You let out a laugh as you held up the small tablet.

"I'm married to your father and Batman. You really didn't think I wouldn't put cameras around when we leave this house completely unsupervised?" You questioned.

"I knew it! And I told you so!" Jason called out.

"All of you are grounded for a month," you remind them as you began to walk upstairs.

"At least you guys cleaned the house well enough. She was aiming for three if you didn't find a replacement for the figurine and didn't clean the house before we got back," Bruce tells the kids before following his wife upstairs.

The kids let out a groan, already feeling guilty and disappointed that they got caught by you.

"We can never outsmart mom huh?" Tim asked.

It was nice whenever the crew visited a new town. Experiencing a new culture. Breathing in the new air. And meeting new people. But for you, it was being able to set foot in a new place that you had never been before.

You were the jack of all trades in the group. But you mostly the tailor and quartermaster of the crew. While you were a skilled fighter, you were really there to explore the world with your best friend, Luffy.

Ever since you two were kids, you both yearned to journey out to the sea. While Luffy's dream was to become king of the pirates, you wanted to see the world and see new places.

"I can get the necessities without help. Might be faster for me to get it myself anyway," you tell the crew as the ship docked at Loguetown.

"You'll be okay by yourself?" Sanji asked.

"Yeah. If anything, let's all meet here at the end of the day," you assured him.

"If you need help, just call my name and I will be there in an instant," Sanji smiled lovingly to you.

While you were used to Sanji's flirting, you couldn't help but view him as a friend and a friend only.

"I know you will," you smile.

You handed the money to everyone so they can go shopping and get their necessary supplies. Of course, giving a little extra to Nami so she can get you both clothes.

You headed to the market to get the supplies needed for the sailing ahead to the Grand Line. You grabbed some new needles, thread, and some fabric that was on sale before heading out of the store. You began to head to the pharmacy for first aid materials but stopped when you heard a familiar voice.

"I see that you're still beautiful as the last time I saw you."

You looked over to the side to see Buggy leaning against the wall next to you. Your eyes widen as you stared at the pirate captain as he stood up straight, coming closer to you.

"Buggy?" You asked, still in shock.

"Said I owe you a date remember?" Buggy asked, holding a flower up to you.

Instead of the smile that Buggy missed on your face, Buggy didn't expect the slap in the face from you. He looked back at you in shock.

"You clown ass! I help you get your body back and instead of helping us fight Arlong's fish crew, you ran off! What the hell!" You yelled at him.

"I'm sorry. I can explain," Buggy said.

"Okay. Explain," you said, crossing your arms at him.

"Okay. I can't really explain but hey! Why don't I take you on that date I promised you?" Buggy asked.

"I have to get back to my crew. Now if you don't mind," you said as you began to walk back. You felt one of Buggy's hands grab your wrist before bringing you back to him.

"Come on sweetheart. I miss your beautiful face."

You rolled your eyes at him. "Uh huh. Sure."

"I'm serious. Look, just a moment alone with you is all I'm asking," Buggy pleaded.

"I have to get back or else my friends will come and find me," you tell him.

"Five minutes. That's all I'm asking," Buggy begged.

You looked over at him with a glare.

"And why should I trust you?" You questioned,

"Fair point. But please. Five minutes," Buggy begged.

"Fine. Five minutes," you agreed.

"I got a carnival set up."

"I said I'd give you five minutes and you're already down to four minutes and forty five seconds."

"Okay! Okay! Look, I couldn't stop thinking about you. Was I an ass? Sure. But look, I would never hurt you," Buggy says.

"But you would hurt my friends. Especially Luffy. Look Buggy, whatever we have, it's not going to work out," you tell him.

"And if I don't hurt your friends? Then will you think about joining my crew and being with me?" Buggy asked.

"I'm in this adventure with my friends. I'm not going to change my mind because you asked me too."

Buggy frowned as he stared at you.

"How long are you in this town for?"

"I'm just getting last minute supplies for our ship."

"How about this? Let me spend time with you going shopping and if there's still time left, let me take you out for dinner," Buggy said.

"Do you even have the berry for it?" You asked.

"Of course I do! Come on sweets," Buggy begged.

"Fine," you say, rolling your eyes.

"Yes! I'll even hold the bags," Buggy said.

"That's the bare minimum," you tell him.

"Whatever. As long as I get to spend time with you, I'll take it," Buggy smiled.

True to his word, Buggy held the bags with your supplies. You quickly dropped them off to the ship before returning to Buggy.

"I need to meet with my friends soon so better make the dinner worth my while," you teased.

"Come on toots," Buggy smiled as he held his hand out for you. You rolled your eyes, taking the offer and holding his hand.

The restaurant Buggy took you too wasn't too full. Luckily, you two were able to get a table in the corner.

"So, beautiful. How's life in the sea?" Buggy asked.

"I'm enjoying it. Any tips so far?"

"As long as you're a good fighter, you don't have to worry," Buggy tells you.

"I'm a good fighter. Pretty handy with knives which I also need to get," you tell him. You usually kept your knives well close to you but you had lost a few in some fights before.

"Tell you what, as a 'sorry for leaving you after you helped me get my body back' gift, I will pay for the best knives money can offer," Buggy offered.

"Dinner and a gift? Oh my," you smiled.

"Forgive me yet?" Buggy asked.

"Maybe."

After dinner and Buggy spending his berry on a good set of knives for you, he walked you over to a carnival.

"Wow. Is this how you're making berry?" You teased.

"A little."

"Well okay. So why did you bring me here?" You asked.

"Thought you'd want to go on a ride. Play a couple games," Buggy offered.

"Okay!"

You got to play a couple carnival games before taking a ride on the carousel. The carousel stopped, showing Luffy in front of you.

"Luffy?"

"Y/n? You found the execution platform and didn't tell me?"

"It wasn't exactly planned."

“Besides, now that you’re here, I can continue the next step of our plan,” Buggy smiled.

“Our plan?” You asked confused.

“Oh honey bunny!” Buggy called out. You looked over to see Captain Avilda walk out.

“Honey bunny? You’re seeing her when you took me out?!” You asked angrily, fury in your eyes as you glared at Buggy.

“You know you’re my number one girl,” Buggy said quickly, looking at you with a smile.

You let out a scoff, shoving him away as you walked over to Luffy.

“We need to get out of here,” you tell him, getting your knives out for a fight.

“But I want to see where Gol D. Roger died,” Luffy whined.

“Luffy. Look up. There it is. Now we need to go!” You tell him, pointing at the execution platform.

You felt your body get pulled back before you felt cuffs on your wrists. Looking up with a glare, you stared at Buggy as he kissed your cheek.

"Don't give me that look baby. You know you're my number one girl," Buggy says.

"Fuck off," you tell him.

"Let me just kill your friend really quickly and I will make it up to you," Buggy tells you. You struggled to get out of the cuffs as you looked over at Luffy with worry.

Luckily for you both, your friends came just in time during the "trial". Sanji quickly got you out of the cuffs, allowing you to fight along side everyone else.

"Luffy!" You yelled the moment you saw him and Buggy on the execution platform. You watched as Luffy announced his name and declared his goal to everyone.

You continued to fight, still trying to keep an eye on Luffy. You watched as Luffy began to laugh, saying how he was dead, before lightning struck the platform. You saw Buggy's body disperse to avoid getting hurt and Luffy fall from the platform when the lightning destroyed the wooden structure. You caught Buggy's head as it landed on you.

“So… can I get a third chance?” Buggy asked with a smile. You let out a scoff before tossing his head away.

“I’ll make it up to you!” Buggy called out.

“Uh huh.”

You walked over to Luffy, giving your best friend a hug.

"We need to get back to the ship," you tell him.

"Hold it! You're all under arrest by the authority of the Marines," a man with white hair announced as he walked over.

"There's an exit that way. Get the hell out of here!" A guy with green hair tells you all.

"Thanks," Luffy smiled before leading you away.

"So you and the clown?" Zoro asked you.

"I think he's better off as just a head," you tell him before running off with Luffy and Sanji.

Buggy got his body back together before rushing off to find you. He spotted you on your ship as you got the sails ready to leave. You noticed Buggy in the distance. He blew you a kiss, making you roll your eyes before catching it. Buggy smiled as you pretended to put his kiss in your pocket before taking off once Nami and Usopp got on the ship.

It was a peaceful night for you and Bruce. Martha lied asleep on Bruce’s chest while you had your legs on his lap. You both were in your pajamas, feeling relaxed.

Bruce had been out on his Batman duties a little more than usual, causing you to drag him out of the batcave to enjoy some time together.

“Hello Ummi and Martha. Father,” Damian greeted, walking into the living room with his pillow and blanket.

“Hi Dami. Is something wrong with your room sweetie?” You asked as you noticed he set up his pillow and blanket.

“My room is fine,” Damian tells you, sitting on the other couch. You let out a shrug as you turned your attention back to the TV.

Duke joined as well, bringing in his pillow and blanket as well. Then, Cass and Stephanie walked into the living room with a mattress and pillows and blankets as well. You stared at the kids as they got comfortable. You watched as Tim, Jason, and Dick walk in with mattresses as well, setting it up.

“Okay. I'll bite. What’s going on?” You asked curiously.

“We’re having a sleepover Ummi,” Damien explained as if it was nothing.

“Oh. Where is Martha going to sleep? She still needs her crib,” you explain.

"We'll get it," Dick said as he and Duke got up to get it.

“Guess I should get a bed for us huh?” Bruce asked.

“Yes. I love you but you take up most of the couch,” you tell him.

Bruce let out a chuckle as he handed Martha over to you. He stood up, stretching a little.

"I'll be back," Bruce said before walking out.

"So, who's idea was it for this sleepover?" You asked.

"It was all of us."

"We realized that we haven't had much family time lately and wanted to make it up to you," Tim mentioned.

"I appreciate it," you smiled.

"We also ordered pizza and wings," Cassandra explained with a smile.

"Yum!"

"Here's Martha's crib," Dick said, bringing it over.

You got up from the couch before heading over to Martha's crib. You kissed her head softly before lying her down.

"Hope we didn't wake her," Duke said as he stared down at the youngest Wayne.

"She'll be fine," you assure him.

"Pizza's here," Stephanie said as she and Cassandra got up.

"Do you girls need money?" You asked.

"We got it mom," Cassandra said as they turned the corner.

"Hope you kids gave Alfred the heads up so he didn't cook," you warned.

"We did," Jason said. "Said he'll make some desserts for us."

"Sounds good."

"Jason. Tim. Move the couch for us," Bruce said as he walked over with the mattress.

You smiled at Bruce, admiring his muscles as he carried the mattress without any help. You often forget how strong he was sometimes.

"On it," Tim said, getting up. Jason let out a small groan as he stood up to move the couch with Tim.

"I'm going to grab the pillows and blankets," you tell Bruce as you walked out of the living room to get the pillows and blankets.

When you got back, you stood by the entrance, staring at your family. You smiled softly, admiring and taking in the view. The kids were spread out, eating pizza and wings as they talked to each other or played on Tim's Nintendo Switch. Bruce was engulfed in the fun as well with a now awake Martha on his lap. Martha reached for Damien, causing him to pick her up and put her on his lap as he, Stephanie, Cassandra, and Duke played Mario Kart.

"Everything okay, Ms. Y/n?" Alfred asked, snapping you away from your trance.

"I just wish it was like this every week," you tell him.

"We just need to enjoy the moments while we still can. Remind them what they're fighting for," Alfred tells you.

You let out a small hum as you looked back at your family.

"Are you joining our sleepover?" You asked Alfred, not looking at him.

"Yes I am," Alfred answered.

"Can't keep them waiting. They're gonna eat up all the pizza," you joked, smiling over at him.

"No we cannot. After you," Alfred said.

"Thank you Alfred," you say before walking over to yours and Bruce's bed. You set up the blankets and pillows before grabbing a slice of pizza. You handed a paper plate of pizza to Alfred who sat on the free couch.

"Mom, you wanna play Mario Kart with us after this round?" Cassandra asked.

"That sounds fun," you smiled over at her.

"I have to warn you Ummi, I will show no mercy," Damien warned.

"I will take on that challenge," you chuckled.

When the fun had died down, you and Bruce stared at the kids as they slept soundly on the mattresses.

"I'd do anything to continue having this," you tell Bruce.

Three of the batkids stared at their adoptive father as he had been stuck in front of the screen in the Batcave. None of the moved as they watched Bruce in some kind of trance.

“How long since he moved?” Dick asked Cassandra and Jason.

“A day,” Cassandra monotonous answered.

“I think he blinked a minute ago, does that count?” Jason asked.

“It’s official. Alfred called it. He said he’ll bake cookies if we can get Bruce to stop working,” Duke said as he walked into the batcave.

"Step aside," Jason said as he cracked his knuckles. "This will be over in no time."

As the kids began to try to get Bruce to move away, no effort was made to moving Bruce.

"I got an idea," Dick said as he took out his phone.

You felt your phone ring, making you put the groceries down onto the kitchen island so you could answer your phone. You had just gone to the store to grab some ingredients to make dinner for tomorrow's dinner.

“Hello?”

“Hey mom! Are you and Damien almost done with grocery shopping yet?”

“We just got home. Why?”

“We’re trying to pry Bruce off of the computer in the Batcave and Alfred said he’d make us cookies if we get him away from the screen.”

“I’m on my way,” you say with a chuckle at the end.

"Already began to bake the cookies. I know you'll be able to get him away," Alfred told you.

"Of course I can. That's my superpower in this family," you joked.

When you got to the Batcave, you saw your husband tiredly staring at the screen in front of him. The dark bags under his eyes from the lack of sleep made you upset but you knew there was one thing you could do that would always get his attention.

"Aw my poor husband," you say.

"You got this mom?" Jason asked you.

“Step aside kids and close your eyes,” you tell them as you walked over to your husband.

“What are you going to do mom?” Dick as as he covered his eyes. The rest of the kids quickly covered their eyes to avoid to see what you were going to do.

You climbed onto Bruce’s lap before lifting both your shirt and bra in front of him. Bruce quickly snapped out of his daze before looking up at you with a smile.

“Tempting me my love?”

“Maybe,” you smile as you pulled your shirt and bra down.

“Let me have my cookies and you can have me,” you whispered into his ears as you stood up.

“Okay kids. Enjoy Alfred’s cookies,” you say as you headed out.

The moment the kids uncovered their eyes, they watched in shock as Bruce already began to make his way towards you.

“Leave it to mom for getting Bruce to do anything other than his Batman duties,” Jason said.

"I wonder how she does it," Duke says out loud.

"Because dad's got it bad for mom," Dick tells him.

By the time Bruce got to you, you were eating your chocolate chip cookies that Alfred had made with Damien. You winked at your husband as you kissed Damien’s head.

“Alfred, why don’t you and the kids go out for a bit? It’s lovely outside,” you tell him.

“Of course,” Alfred said before walking over to get the rest of the kids. You began to head upstairs to your room, knowing that you had stirred something in Bruce.

“You coming Bruce?” You called out. You smirked as you heard Bruce’s fastened footsteps.

You let out a laugh as you felt him pick you up. You held onto him as he rushed over to the bedroom.

“I owe you some alone time don’t I?” Bruce asked you with a smile.

“Yes you do. Now, while everyone is out of the house, why don’t you make it up to me?” You asked him.

Buggy always thought life was unfair to him. Ever since he was a kid with you and Shanks. While he liked you, you liked Shanks.

Sure Shanks was better looking and a better pirate but Buggy knew you better and could make you laugh. You were able to confined in him no matter what it was. But he wished he was more for you.

So when the three of you went your separate ways, Buggy wasn’t surprised when you went with Shanks. That was until he was somehow captured and founded by you after escaping Arlong Park thanks to the Straw Hats.

“Well, well, well. If it isn’t my old friend Buggy,” you teased as you stared down at him.

“Hello beautiful,” Buggy smiled up at you. Because he was in love with you, he made sure he was never on your bad side.

“What should we do with him captain?” One of your girls asked as they looked at you.

“I got this,” you tell them as you dragged Buggy to your quarters. You sat him on a chair as you closed the door.

“I take it you and Shanks aren’t together anymore?” Buggy asked you, noticing the clean quarters and no sign of Shanks anywhere.

“We had a fun run. But sadly, I wasn’t good enough for him,” you explained with a small frown.

“His loss really."

“Aren’t you so sweet as always?” You asked as you pinched his cheek.

“So you gonna untie me?”

“I gotta ask, what happened with you?” You questioned him.

“Ugh, stupid kids. One of them was wearing a similar straw hat like our Shanks,” Buggy tells you.

“Ah. You met Luffy,” you giggled.

“Oh no. You know the little brat?” Buggy asked. You flicked his head causing him to let out a shout.

"Don't disrespect him like that."

“Okay. Okay. I’m sorry.”

“Where’s your crew?” You asked him.

“Don’t know. And I need help finding them again,” Buggy tells you.

“If I help you, what do I get out of it?” You asked.

“I won’t attack you and your crew,” Buggy offered.

“Buggy, you and I both know I can take you down no matter what.”

“Only cause I let you,” Buggy scoffed.

You untied him from the ropes before patting his cheek.

“Got to say, you’ve gotten cuter since the last time I saw you,” you tell him.

“Believe it or not, I’m single,” Buggy said. You smiled softly up at him before looking away.

"You know, it's funny. I sometimes think it should've been us instead of me and Shanks. You always knew how to make me feel loved," you tell him before leaving. Buggy's smile fell a little. Was this finally his chance?

He walked out to see your crew of women either cleaning, practicing their swordsmanship, or relaxing. He spotted you on the top as you pointed to a direction in the ocean as you talked to one of your women.

"Can we talk?" Buggy asked you the moment he got up to you.

"We can talk later tonight. Got a ship to run," you tell him.

"Okay."

For once, Buggy stayed out of trouble. But yet again, he did it for you. Once night fell and all your girls went to bed, Buggy met with you on the top of the ship where you sat and looked up at the stars.

"I remember always finding you up here when it was night and you would watch the stars," Buggy says as he sat next to you.

"Still my favorite thing to do. I'm surprised you remember," you tell him.

"Did you mean what you said?" Buggy asked.

"What?"

"That it should've been me instead of Shanks?" Buggy asked.

"It was just a thought."

"And if I told you that I've been in love with you since we were kids?" Buggy asked.

You looked at Buggy with a slightly surprised look.

"You have?"

"Yeah. But you were too busy making googly eyes at Shanks," Buggy said.

"And what if I told you I was willing to give you a chance?" You asked.

"You would give a clown like me a chance?" Buggy asked with a scoff.

"You're actually a nice guy who cares for others. Also, you're better than some of the men I've met after Shanks," you pointed out.

"I don't know about that. I gotta find my crew and then we gotta do our own sailing to find the One Piece before you," Buggy teased.

You smile softly before nudging him.

"I'm kidding. You wanna combine crews and we can find the One Piece together?" Buggy asked.

"I'm more here for the adventures but why the hell not," you joked. Buggy smiled before kissing the top of your head.

"So can I call you my girl now?" Buggy asked.

"I'll think about it," you joked. Buggy laughed a little before ruffling your hair.

"You're so mean," you chuckled.

"You know you love me," Buggy smiled. You smiled back up at him before leaning your head on his shoulder. You felt Buggy wrap his arm around your waist, kissing your temple. "Besides, I can treat you much better than Shanks."

Bucky could trust Steve ever since he began to remember him. That's why he went to him four months after leaving Hydra.

But during the time he's been with the Avengers, the hold that Hydra had on him continued to linger. Throughout the time he's been with the Avengers, trying to get better, there were a few slip ups when he would revert to The Winter Soldier persona.

That was until he met you.

Tony had brought you after meeting you when you saved his life with your special weapon that impressed him. Your dice that affects your opponents based on what the number it landed on. One could either blind people enough for you to take them down or six that can send people flying back and cause the room to burst into flames.

Not to mention you were an excellent fighter and held a bachelors and Masters in computer science and information science. Along with a minor in physics. So Tony brought you in.

That was three months ago. Three months since you've joined the Avengers. Three months since you've met Bucky and became close to him. Three months since Bucky did everything he can to make sure he didn't show up again.

~~~~~

It was your free week after a mission. A week to recover. And you wanted to get your favorite pasties as a reward for being able to get the mission done sooner than estimated.

"Are you sure you have to have these pastries?" Bucky asked you as you were getting ready to head out.

"Yes. I've been wanting them all week and I am going to get them. You can come with me if you'd like," you offered.

"We were comfortable on the couch," Bucky tells you with a small pout.

"It's just a fifteen minute walk. I will be back soon," you smiled at him.

You got into the elevator before pressing the button.

"What do you want by the way?" You asked him.

"Surprise me," Bucky tells you with a soft smile.

"Ooh! Okay," you say excitedly as the doors closed.

You had been gone for an hour. No texts from you, no calls. Nothing. Bucky grew worried. And then he appeared.

"Где она? (Where is she?)" Steve heard. Steve quickly turned around to see Bucky standing behind him. Sam looked up from his phone as he noticed the sudden change in Bucky.

"Friday, alert everyone and let them know we have a Code Snow," Tony says calmly to prevent The Winter Soldier from being provoked.

Everyone looked at The Winter Soldier as they got ready to fight him just in case. No one knew what triggered him.

"Bucky. You're okay. It's me," Steve says. The Winter Solider stared at him with a dark look.

"Hey guys! I'm back! Sorry it took so long. Line was super long and my phone died while I played Candy Crush," you say, walking out of the elevator with the to go bag from the bakery shop.

"Y/n! Stay back!" You heard. You looked over to see everyone in a defensive position.

"What's wrong?" You asked confused. You looked over at Bucky who stared intensely at you. As if he was on a mission to protect you.

"Bucky? Is everything okay?" You asked, taking a step closer to him.

"Y/n, I wouldn't do that," Steve advised, stopping you in your tracks.

"What? Why?" You asked confused, looking over at Steve.

"He's back to his Winter Soldier mindset," Steve said.

"His what?" You asked confused. Your eyebrows furrowed, not understanding what he just said.

"Did Bucky not tell you about when he was under control by Hydra?" Steve asked you.

"He was part of Hydra?" You asked confused and in shock.

"Did you not read the files I gave you?" Tony questioned. A mixture of upset, annoyed, and confusion mixed in his tone.

"I... may have just skimmed through them," you admitted, looking away so you didn't have to look at him in the eye.

"Just come here," Tony said before grabbing your wrist.

Before Tony could pull you back to everyone else, Bucky quickly grabbed Tony's arm. Bucky pulled you back to him before throwing Tony back. Luckily, Steve quickly caught Tony.

"Bucky! No!" You yell, grabbing his right arm. He looked back at you before cupping your face.

"Ты в порядке? (Are you okay?)" The Winter Soldier asked you. Your eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

"I don't speak Russian," you tell him.

"Are you okay?" The Winter Soldier asked you again in English.

"I'm fine. But you shouldn't have done that! Tony could've gotten seriously hurt!" You yelled at him.

"He grabbed your wrist," The Winter Soldier pointed out, remaining calm as if nothing had happened.

"But he didn't hurt me," you tell him. "Please. Don't fight them. Let us help you get back to normal."

You stared up at The Winter Soldier with a look. The Winter Soldier stared at you before giving you a nod. He stood behind you as you looked at everyone else.

"What do I do now?" You asked nervously.

"Huh. That's new," Sam said.

"Y/n, can you lead him to the lab? We need to see something," Bruce asked you.

"Okay. Um, Bucky?"

"I'm not him," The Winter Soldier tells you.

"Okay. Um what do I call you?" You asked.

"Солдат. (Soldier)"

"I'm sorry. What?" You asked.

"Soldat," The Winter Soldier corrected. But this time, he said it slower and in a way you could understand.

"Soldat. Follow me," you tell him as you followed Bruce to the lab.

You stayed next to Bucky as he sat down for Bruce to look over at him.

"Interesting," Bruce says.

"What?" You asked.

"He seems more calm when it comes to you. Before you got here, his levels were high. But now, he seems more stable around you," Bruce tells you.

"Oh. That's good?"

"I would like to try something out if that's okay?" Bruce says.

"Okay."

"Go to the training room," Bruce says.

"Do I need to change?" You asked.

"No. But just know, this is a test," Bruce tells you.

"Okay," you nervously say.

You and Bucky walked into the training room while Steve, Tony, Sam, and Bruce watched from the side.

"Y/n, remember. This is a test," Bruce tells you.

You looked at him in confusion before seeing one of Tony's training bots walk over with a knife.

"Target acquired," the robot said as it walked over to you with a knife.

It tried to attack you but you quickly dodged it. The Winter Soldier quickly grabbed the bot but it's head with his mental arm before crushing it with his hand. You looked at The Winter Soldier as he looked over at the four. He began to walk over to them, ready to attack them.

"Soldat! Stand down!" You yelled.

The Winter Soldier stopped as you rushed over to him. He looked down at you, making sure you were okay.

"I'm okay," you tell him.

"Okay. Y/n, stand here with us and Steve, you go in," Bruce tells you both.

You walked over to Bruce and Tony as you watched Steve and the Winter Soldier stand in the middle of the room. Another bot attacked Steve but The Winter Soldier didn't do anything, he stood near you, as if he was protecting you. Tony controlled the bot to come towards you but The Winter Soldier quickly stopped it. Crushing it as he did with the one before.

"Okay. It's clear to say that he's only going to protect Y/n."

"What do I do now? When will Bucky be back?" You questioned.

"Usually we keep him contained until Bucky reverts back. But if he's not letting anything or anyone hurt you, then there is a chance he could be okay to roam around as long as you're with him," Bruce says.

"Is that a good idea?" Sam asked.

"We can give it a shot. And if something goes wrong, we'll keep hm contained until he reverts back to Bucky," Steve said.

"I'm willing to try it," you tell the boys.

"Are you sure? You saw what he can do to my bots," Tony asked.

"I'll be okay. And if something goes wrong, I'll call you guys," you tell them.

"Keep this with you," Tony said, handing you a small remote with one button on it. "If he starts to hurt you, just click it and we'll rush to you."

"Okay. Thank you," you say. You looked back at the Winter Soldier who stayed nearby, staring at you.

"I am feeling hungry so come on. I'm gonna make some lunch," you tell The Winter Soldier. He nodded as he followed you out.

Throughout the day, The Winter Soldier stayed close to you. While everyone kept their distance (mostly in fear that The Winter Solider would attack them if they got too close to you), you seemed to be fine with The Winter Soldier lingering near you.

"I'm going to bed. Goodnight everyone," you say as you walked over to your room. You noticed The Winter Soldier stand by your door as you grabbed your pajamas.

"Oh right. Soldat, you can go to your room. I'm just gonna shower and sleep," you tell him.

"Я должен остаться здесь на случай, если у тебя возникнут проблемы. (I must stay here in case you are in trouble)," he tells you.

"English please. I don't speak Russian," you remind him.

"I must stay here in case you are in trouble," he tells you.

"Um okay. I'm just gonna shower and change really quickly," you tell him before walking into your bathroom. You closed the door and locked it before turning on the shower.

After the shower, you changed into your pajamas before blow drying your hair. You walked out of the shower to see The Winter Soldier sitting on your bed.

"Do you need to shower or change into your clothes as well?" You asked.

"I don't need to."

"If you're gonna stay here you're gonna shower. Come on," you tell him before walking out of your room. You led him to his room which was as bare as when you joined the Avengers. You took out his spare clothes before handing them to The Winter Soldier.

"Go shower. If you want, I'll stay out here until you finish," you tell the Winter Soldier. Bucky nodded before walking in the bathroom. You lied on his bed, feeling yourself grow comfortable.

The Winter Soldier walked out of the bathroom in his new clothes to see you asleep on his bed. He turned off the lights for you before sitting on a chair, watching you sleep.

You could feel him watching you, making you slightly wake up.

"You know, that's really creepy," you yawned. "Just come into the bed. You're gonna give me nightmares.

The Winter Soldier sat on the bed, staring at the door, waiting for anyone to come in. You pulled in down onto the bed, making him lie down. The Winter Soldier looked at you as you slept soundly, facing him. He moved his hand, placing it on top of yours.

~~~~~

Bucky had been avoiding you ever since you both woke up in his bed after he reverted back from the Winter Soldier. No matter how hard you tried to talk to him, he was good at hiding away.

"Did I do something wrong?" You asked Wanda and Natasha.

"What do you mean?" Natasha asked.

"Bucky has been ignoring me for the past couple of days. I've tried talking to him but he keeps avoiding me," you pouted.

"You didn't do anything wrong. I think Bucky's embarrassed. I'm surprised he didn't tell you about The Winter Soldier," Wanda said.

"Is it cause I'm new?" You asked.

"You can't be that clueless," Natasha tells you.

"Clearly I am because I don't know what you're talking about," you continued to pout.

"He didn't want you to know because he likes you."

"What? What do you mean?" You asked, sitting up.

"Come on. Ever since you've joined, Bucky has been by your side. If he's not with Steve or Sam, he's with you. And even on missions, he's by your side or close nearby," Natasha says.

"He could just be friendly. Last time I thought someone liked me, they were just being nice and I felt embarrassed and never showed my face to them again," you admitted.

"Bucky is different. He likes you and it's easy for us to see that but you," Wanda says.

"But do you like him?" Natasha asked.

"Yes. He's tall, handsome, he's nice to me and I will admit, it was kinda hot seeing him all protective," you admitted.

"Go talk to him. He should be done with training by now," Natasha tells you. You nodded before getting up to find Bucky.

You found him walking to his room which you quickly caught up to him.

"Bucky. Can we please talk," you asked.

"I have to shower," Bucky says, still trying to avoid you.

"Fine then. I'll make it quick. I like you. And I don't care if you're still struggling with dealing what Hydra put you through. I want to help you anyway that I can. Because that's how much I like you. I like you for who you are. And you're just gonna have to deal with that," you tell him.

Bucky stared at you, surprised at your confession, as you stared at him.

"And now I am going to go because building up that confidence was a lot of energy and if you don't like me back, then that's fine. I just wanted you to know that I like you," you tell him before quickly turning around to leave.

~~~~~

You sat alone up on the roof as you stared out at the city. This was a long way from home but at least the view was nice to look at. You heard someone clear their throat, turning your attention over to them. You found Bucky standing nearby with a pastry box that had a slice of your favorite flavored cake.

"What's that for?" You asked.

"It's an apology cake slice. I'm sorry I've been ignoring you the past couple of days," Bucky said, handing you the cake.

"Thank you for the cake. Please be honest, did I do something wrong?" You asked him, putting the cake next to you.

"You did nothing wrong. It's mostly me," Bucky says as he sat down with you. "To be honest, I really like you too. But I was afraid you would get hurt by The Winter Soldier. Then when I woke up and you were in bed with me, I was afraid he or I took advantage of you.

"Well just to be clear, you didn't. And if you want, we can start things off slowly. I really do like you Bucky," you offered.

"I'd like that. I really do like you too, Y/n and I don't want to ruin anything between us. Believe it or not, you're the only other person I'm comfortable here with," Bucky tells you. You smiled at him.

"I'm comfortable with you too," you tell him.

"Are you doing anything tomorrow?" Bucky asked.

"Not really. Why?" You asked.

"Well, I was thinking, would you want to go on a date? We can go to Coney Island and grab some dinner. Or we can just take a stroll around Central Park," Bucky suggested.

"I like any of those. I've never fully experienced Central Park and I haven't been to Coney Island yet so surprise me," you tell Bucky.

"Alright. Will do," Bucky smiled.

"Do you want to stay here with me and stare out the city? It's one hell of a view," you say.

"I'd like that," Bucky says.

Johnny knew he was going to face trouble the moment Reed hired you as his assistant.

You had just recently graduated college, getting your bachelors in physics and computer science. And somehow, you managed to get the best job that could help you in your career. Being the Richard Reed's assistant.

"Good morning! I brought bagels!" You announced as you put them on the counter.

"You are the best. You know that," Ben said as he walked over.

"Can you tell that to Reed so he can write me a great recommendation to NASA?" You jokingly asked Ben.

"I can but then who will bring us bagels every Friday?" Ben asked.

"That's true. Maybe I shouldn't leave," you say with a smile.

"Hello, beautiful," Johnny greeted as he walked into the kitchen.

"Hi, Johnny," you greeted.

"So, any plans tomorrow?" Johnny asked, leaning against the counter next to you.

"I am going out with some friends who are visiting me this weekend," you tell him, slightly excited.

It's been a while since you last saw your friends. But you had made time to spend a weekend with them and you were excited to catch up and have fun.

"And what are you do plan on doing? Drinking? Dancing? I can join you. For protection of course," Johnny said with a smile and a wink.

"We'll be fine, Johnny. Besides, I'm sure you have plans with some girl you met while you were doing hero work," you tell him as you walked over to Reed's lab.

Johnny let out a groan while Ben let out a laugh.

"You really need to give it up," Ben tells him.

"How can I? She's literally perfect," Johnny whined as he sat next to his friend.

"You do have a reputation with the ladies," Ben said.

"Have you seen me gone out with a girl for the last two weeks?" Johnny asked.

"That's true. But you know, you could prove it to her that you can change," Ben suggested.

"I've tried! Do you think Reed can convince her that I'm a changed man?" Johnny asked.

"Oh no. You know Reed likes her work. He's not going to lose her if you break her heart," Ben pointed out.

"You're right. I need to step up my game," Johnny said.

Reed loved how dedicated you were to science like him. And Sue loved how you remind him to take breaks and focus on other stuff every once in a while. While you didn't have powers, you were still helpful to the team when it came to their hero work.

"Reed, please do not touch any of my work. I will resume it on Monday and if you touch it, I will cry," you tell him.

"I won't," Reed chuckled.

"Sue, please make sure he doesn't touch my work," you say with a pout to her.

"I won't. You have fun with your friends this weekend," Sue said.

"Thank you! I will see you both on Monday but if there is anything you guys need, just give me a call," you tell them.

"We can manage a weekend without you. Just go have fun," Sue said.

What you loved about Sue was that she was like an older sister to you. And Reed was like an older brother who was also your mentor.

"Thank you! I'll see you all Monday!" You say as you put on your coat.

You grabbed your bag before heading out. Before the elevator doors closed, Johnny slipped in.

"Hi, Johnny," you greeted.

"Hi. Is it okay if I walk you home?" Johnny asked.

"I don't see the harm in that," you say.

Johnny smiled as you stared at the elevator doors.

"You know, there's a great new food place that's opening up in Brooklyn if you want to try it out sometime," Johnny said. You looked up at him with a small frown.

"Johnny-"

"I'm not asking you like a date. How about just two colleagues getting lunch?" Johnny asked.

"Okay. Fine," you said.

You always thought Johnny was handsome. But his reputation with the ladies kept you from perusing a relationship with him. You didn't want your heart broken by him then have to continue seeing him when you were at the Baxter Building.

"The offer does stand though about me joining you and your friends while you all have fun. Keep you protected," Johnny reminded.

"I think we'll be fine. And besides, I have your number. I know you'll be fast enough to save me," you tell him. Johnny smiled as the elevator doors opened.

The two of you walked to your apartment which was only a ten minute walk away. Normally you would speed walk over home but this time, you took your time.

"I'm surprised Reed hasn't asked you to move in with us," Johnny said.

"He's offered it. But I don't know yet to be honest," you shrugged.

"I get it. But the offer stands if you ever change your mind," Johnny said.

"Maybe."

"It's kinda late. Want to get some dinner?" Johnny asked.

"Why not? There's a take out place nearby that has really good food," you tell him, pointing over at the corner on the street.

"Sounds good."

You brought the food back to your apartment and put it on the table. Johnny couldn't help but admit to himself that he was nervous in seeing your apartment.

"Nice place," Johnny complimented.

Your apartment screamed you. Your interests were shown throughout the apartment. A periodic table poster displayed in your living room which was on brand for you. Some pictures of you with family and friends hung on the walls.

"Thanks."

"So you do have a life outside of science," Johnny joked.

"Hilarious," you sarcastically say to him.

"I'm just saying," Johnny said, raising his hands in defense.

You sat on the table with Johnny as you both ate dinner together.

"Wow. This is good," Johnny said.

"I told you! The place you talked about better be as good as my place," you joked.

"And if it isn't, we can always find another place to eat together," Johnny said.

"Okay," you nodded.

"So, other than science, what other things do you like to do?" Johnny asked.

"Mmm. I've taken up knitting. It's nice," you tell him.

"Would you knit me something?" Johnny asked.

"Like what?" You asked.

"How about a sweater? Can get you the anti-flammable material Reed designed for me," Johnny said.

"Okay. I'll knit you a sweater," you nodded. "It's gonna take a while though cause I only get free time during the weekends and that's if no one tries to take over the city or world."

"That's fine. Tell you what, you knit me a sweater and I will make sure you get good food from different food places," Johnny offered.

"That's a good bargain," you smiled. "You know, you surprise me Johnny."

"How so?"

"You've been different since I first met you. It's like... you're maturing in a way," you explain.

"Does it make you want to give me a chance?" Johnny asked.

"Maybe. I'll think about it," you smile. "But you are warming up to me."

"I'll take it," Johnny clapped.

"Don't get your hopes so high just yet," you tell him. "Why don't we start off as friends first?"

"Alright. Friends," Johnny said, offering a handshake. You looked at him before shaking his hand.

"You just upgraded from colleagues to friends. How do you feel?" You joked.

"Feels amazing," Johnny chuckled. "But you know this means I'm not giving up on you."