#ceo!marvel

“That is so sweet.” Wanda grins, reaching to the bar to pick up her cocktail.

“Not as sweet as that dinner date Vis took you on. Sounds like things are getting serious.” 

“They are! Our apartment allows pets so we went to the shelter last week,” she pulls out her phone and shows me a photo of a caramel-coloured cross breed on a strays website, “He's called Cosmo and we're going to pick him up next week.”

“Oh my gosh, he's adorable! A shared pet, big step.”

“It is… but I can really see this going all the way and I think we should take the leap.”

“That's great! I'm happy for you, Wanda.” I hug her again.

“Thanks! What about you two, how are things?” Wanda asks. I look over to Bucky- he's laughing at someone’s jokes, his smile making me smile.

“Thing are good, really good. We've both been super stressed with this launch but it's been nice having each other to talk to about it.” And help with stress release. Of course, it's more than that. I'm happy. I'm really happy right now and Bucky is the reason why. He'll surprise me with a coffee in the office when I don't have the chance to leave my desk. We'll go on spontaneous dates from picnics in central park to rooftop dinners at Michelin star restaurants. I'll cook and we'll have a chill movie night together. Then there's the little things: the way he'll rub my feet when I have to take work home; the kisses he leaves when he thinks I'm sleeping; his smile that I always find myself reciprocating; the way he will always make sure I'm okay (he magically always knows when I'm not). Every day I fall more and more in love with him- it's crazy really.

After bumping into Clint and Natasha behind one of the electronic billboards and Thor and Jane in the ladies toilets, I decide it's safest to stay within the main crowd- I don't want to be cracking out the eye bleach tonight. Bucky keeps one hand on my knee nearly the entire time we spend sitting in the booth.

“And how is Joey? I feel like it's been ages since I got a cuddle from that little squish.” I ask Peggy and Steve. Joseph James Rogers was born exactly two months before the scheduled launch date for our new AI making this time extremely stressful for Steve. Stressful but also amazing.

“You two babysat for us just last week!” Peggy laughs, “He's fine with his Nana and Papa making friends with all of the dogs.” 

“We don't mind babysitting when the kid is just so darn cute.” Bucky's hand gets a little tighter on my knee; whenever the topic of kids comes up he gets quite broody. Don't get me wrong, it's really hot and I love the idea of having kids but not yet. Definitely not yet.

“No leaving the party early then.” Bucky jokes, clinking his glass with Steve's.

“We wouldn't dream of it.” Steve raises his glass in turn.

“Mum and Dad are staying up late tonight!” Peggy laughs. We all start making toasts to anything and everything, the alcohol helping with the joyous mood we're all in.

~~~~~

“Official public sales start tomorrow and I couldn't be prouder of all the work we've done in the past months.”

“Yes, thank you every single one of you here tonight, in every department. We couldn't have done this without you.” Bucky and Steve stand on a small raised stage making their joint thank you speech.

“A toast to Barnes and Rogers and our continued bright future in the market.” Bucky raises his glass of champagne followed by everyone else as a chorus of cheers.

“Also,” Steve gestures for us all to quieten down, “as a special treat for you all, we'd like to announce this year's company retreat- an all-paid-for spa weekend away. You all deserve a bit of relaxation.” I catch Bucky's eye and he shoots me a wink. I wonder if the spa will do couples packages. 

“Now enough of the serious talk, let's get this night started properly.” The lights turn purple and loud house music starts, all controlled by the DJ who comes amped up into his booth. Bucky steps down from the platform and comes over to me, kissing me gently on the cheek and squeezing me with a hug.

“Someone's happy.” I grin, reaching up on my toes to kiss him on the lips.

“Because I am happy. Come on, I want to show you something.” he takes my hand, and leads me out of the crowd.

We emerge from dark corridors out into a balcony. There's a cute little bench, a bucket of ice with champagne, fairy lights around the perimeter and beautiful plants everywhere. But the view… the view is the real star. Being in a bit of a club district, there's neon signs about every way you look. The skyscrapers in the near distance are all lit up like Christmas trees creating the classic New York view. The sky is an inky blue with the occasional plane passing over. It's truly stunning.

“Wow…” I wander up to the railing, marvelling at it all. 

“It's even more beautiful now you're up here.” Bucky says. I scoff, wrapping my arms around his neck.

“You're such a sap.” I giggle, kissing him freely without the eyes of every single one of my co-workers.

“But I'm your sap.” He kisses me back, hands holding me close by the waist.

“Is this the surprise then, cos it's really really pretty.” I look out to the city.

“Sort of. What can you see from here?” 

“Well, lots of buildings…” I look for something to stand out to me, “I can see the top of the zoo over there so that must make… that building your apartment.” I point to my answer.

“Mhm. How would you like it to be our apartment?” 

“What?!” I look at Bucky, is he kidding?

“Move in with me. We can move into mine or find a new place together. You're over a lot of the time, I'd love for it to be all the time. What do you say?” Wow. Okay. Wow. This is huge! I’m being too quiet, I need to say something.

“I love your apartment.”

“You- Is that a yes?”

“Yes!” Bucky laughs as he picks me up and spins me around. When he puts me down he kisses me passionately.

“I love you so much.”

“I love you so much more.”

Bucky pops the champagne and we sit up there on the terrace talking and occasionally making out (not that I’m one to kiss and tell). He gives me his jacket when the evening chill sets in like a true gentleman. I take this as the perfect opportunity to snuggle into his side, he needs to keep warm too after all.

“Thor tells me he’s been thinking about maybe buying a ring.”

“Wow! They’re so sweet together. She’ll say yes for sure.”

“They’re a cute couple. Not as cute as us, but cute.” I jab him in the ribs for the cheeky joke but can’t help laughing.

“It’s not a competition.”

“No… but if it is we would win.”

“Really? Not even the one couple who are married with a baby?”

“Well, yeah, if we’re counting married people then maybe they just beat us. Only just.”

“You’re such an ass!” I tease him, giving him a kiss so he knows I’m joking.

“An ass you just agreed to live with. No backing out now!”

“I wouldn’t dream of it.” And I really wouldn’t. Bucky is the most amazing part of my life and I couldn’t imagine it without him. Obviously it hasn’t been all that long, not for thinking about marriage and kids yet anyway, but I really think we could be endgame. And it’s all thanks to that darn retreat.

The Retreat Tags:

Ignoring my remark, Peter continues. "I googled him, by the way. He's old, dude!"

I let out a laugh. "You make it sound like the man is fifty or something", I remark, speeding away from the traffic light once it turns green. I am already a bit behind schedule because of some missing fabric and sketches at work. That set my planning back for almost an hour, so I couldn't go home to change into formal wear or something nice.

And in all honesty, I had the vaguest idea that my day wouldn't go as planned, so I put on a pair of black jeans with a blue blouse, and black turtleneck tucked in the jeans. And with the first jacket I saw, which is an oversized leather one, it's sure a look.

"Did you also hear what happened to his arm?"

"Peter, I know nothing about this man other than how he looks, so do tell." I pull up to the parking lot of the restaurant. I cut off the engine and look at the crowd inside, seeing if I can see my parents somewhere.

"So, it turns out he has a prosthetic arm made of metal. I've seen pictures, it looks really cool." I can practically hear through the phone that Peter's bouncing around.

With a sigh, I reach behind the driver's seat and grab the pair of emergency heels. I always have those in my car. "Yeah well... okay. Thanks for the information, I guess." I take my phone out of its holder, holding it to my ear as I step out of the car. "I've got to go. How about lunch tomorrow? With MJ, Ned, and Shuri. I heard she is in town." 

I walk up to the restaurant and set a time with Peter before ending the call. I immediately text the group of the plans as I enter the restaurant.

"I have a reservation at seven", I greed the host with a polite smile while glancing at my watch. 19:20. Not too shabby.

"Under what name, ma'am?" The host starts to flip through the black reservation book.

"(Y/L/N). My parents are already seated if I'm correct." 

The host nods and motions for me to follow them. They bring me to a table in the back. 

As I approach the table, I first get noticed by a familiar face. Brown hair, a slight beard, and deep-set eyes. Which light up as soon as they fall on me.

James Barnes stands up, making everyone at the table look at him in surprise before realising why he stood up.

"Hello, I am so sorry I am late. Work was hectic, and the traffic was none the better. (Y/n) (Y/L/N)." I hold out my hand for a handshake.

James shakes it politely, a soft smile on his lips. "Nice to meet you. James Barnes." He holds my hand longer than he's supposed to. As he realizes that he is still holding my hand, James quickly let go, letting his hand drop next to his body.

Ignoring the awkward handshake, I move towards his father. I shake his hand with a smile and say something along the way of it being nice to see him again.

"Couldn't you stop by your apartment to put on a more appropriate outfit?", remarks mom and I roll my eyes.

"Nice to see you too, mom. No, I couldn't. Pietro lost a pretty important shipment of fabrics, so that had to be found." I shrug off my jacket, placing it over the backrest of the last empty seat, in front of James and next to my father. Mr Barnes is next to James while mom sits at the head of the table with a judging look on her face.

"Do you work in the shipping industry?", asks Mr Barnes, his eyes focussed on me as he takes a sip of his drink.

I run a hand through my hair. "No, I am a fashion designer at my own brand, Aeon. We are currently mid-production for our new collection, the whole design and production team are under a whole lot of stress."

Dad perks up. "Yes! Her new collection will be shown in three months in Chicago." He smiles proudly as he pats my thigh under the table.

"What do you design?", asks James, interest shown in his eyes.

"I focus mainly on tailoring. Suits, dresses, formal wear. All that jazz. And you, what do you do for a living?" I reach for the drink that's already placed above my plate. I glance at my dad and give him a thankful smile, knowing he ordered it for me.

"Oh, I am into the real estate business. I own a couple of buildings on the Upper East and West Side and Hell's Kitchen, also a few estates in Brooklyn." James lists off his listing, but it doesn't sound braggy at all.

I let out a soft gasp at the mention of Brooklyn. "I love Brooklyn! Ever since I was little I would dream of living there."

James leans forwards with an excited smile on his face. "I am from Brooklyn. We lived there for how long?" He turns to his father.

"You’ve lived with us for twenty long years”, Mr Barnes teases, making my parents chuckle. “Our family has been living in Brooklyn for generations." His father turns to me. "You will fit well there."

"Where do you live now?", asks James before I can form an answer to his father's remark.

"Greenwich Village, just a few blocks away from Washington Square Park. My studio is just around the corner, so that's a pro."

"What are the cons." I see James thinking. He's using his realtor brain of his to imagine what is wrong.

I lean backwards, my lips forming into a mischievous smile. "Believe it or not, and it's going to blow your mind. It's not Brooklyn."

To my surprise, the dinner went smoothly and before I know, it's time to go. Our parents ushered us outside while they figure out how to paying will go.

"It was really nice meeting you, James." I turn to him with a bright smile, my hands in the pockets of my jacket. It has cooled down significantly since I entered the restaurant and I shiver.

"Do you wanna, like- I mean, if you're not busy... We could get lunch? Or even just coffee since you seem very busy at the moment?" James suddenly turns a slight shade of red. "I would like to get to know you better."

"Of course, I would love to. I have this Thursday time for lunch, I believe." I check my agenda with a frown. "Yup, for two hours I am completely yours."

I bite my lip at my comment. Great, how to make it weird 101.

"Wonderfull. I'll pick you up... where should I pick you up?" He scratches the back of his neck with a boyish smile on his face.

"Let me AirDrop my contact details and those of my studio. You do have an iPhone, don't you?" I narrow my eyes in fake suspicion.

James laughs. "Do you think I am a barbarian?" He takes out his phone as I AirDrop the contacts to his phone. He does the same for me for his personal information and that of his office.

"See you next Thursday, then. Around noon." He pulls me into a curt hug as our parents walk out of the restaurant. Blood rush to my cheeks as I watch James and his father leave, waving goodbye at me before getting into the car and driving off.

"What did I tell you?" Dad comes to stand next to me and nudges my side.

I bite my lip and roll my eyes. "Fine. He's a nice guy. Are you happy now?" I give him a kiss on his cheek, doing the same to my mom before walking towards my car.

"As long as you're happy, we will be too dove!", dad calls after me before I close my car door, a wide smile on his face.

I slip off my heels and throw them on the back seat, putting the car in reverse and speeding away. 

“I'm good, what happened?” 

“Well I heard there was a bit of a struggle so I came out here. You were nearly purple and this one had you by the neck. I jumped her from behind and the police will be here in five minutes.” Phil explains the situation like he's telling me about any old mundane day's activities. 

“But… how did you… what…?” I mumble parts of questions, my mind still a mess partly shrouded in fog.

“What I do for a living is classified Y/N. Let's just say what I do means that this was easy.” What?! My neighbour has been working for some undercover super secret agency and I didn't know. Well, of course I didn't know but I should have been able to guess right? I don't know. Thunderous steps coming up the stairs steal my attention away from my own muddled thoughts. 

“Y/N, oh my god!” Bucky nearly trips in the last step as he races towards me, pulling me up on his knees into a hug.

“Well you're not the police.” Phil remarks, going back to checking his phone.

“What happened here?” Bucky looks around the hallway at the broken plant pot and of course India on the floor.

“It's a long story.”

The cops arrive shortly after Bucky. The two uniformed officers give Phil a look of bemusement as he hands India over to them.

“You're gonna regret this, both of you! Barnes and Rogers is finished once HYDRA hears about this.” She seethes, spitting on the ground by Bucky's shoes as she's taken away in handcuffs. I hug into Bucky's side, not wanting to hear anymore, as he puts one arm around my shoulders.

“It's okay doll, she's gone.” He kisses the top of my head as he reassures me.

“Hopefully she shouldn't be bothering you guys again. I'd maybe get a restraining order in place though to be safe.” Phil advises, dusting his hands off on his jeans as he watches the officers leave down the stairs.

“Maybe we should get one for Caroline too to be safe.” Bucky adds.

“How did you know Caroline was involved?” I look up to him, brows quirked.

“She came to my apartment uninvited- wait, how did you know?”

“India mentioned it earlier. Before she tried to strangle me.” my hand goes to massage my throat subconsciously, the memory of my near-death experience seared deep into my brain. I don't want to go to court for this- I never want to see India or Caroline ever again if I can help it- but if that's the price of my safety I will do it. If it keeps us both safe I'll be there tomorrow ready to testify. 

“Right, are you two alright?” Phil turns to us.

“Yeah, thank you Phil… for everything.” I smile at him. Bucky shakes his hand and says his own thanks before kissing the top of my head and squeezing me closer.

“I think we need to talk, don't you?”

~~~~~

Bucky runs a hand over his face and through his hair, the seat creaking as he leans back and takes a breath.

“Why didn't you speak out, someone could have helped- I could have helped!” He reaches for my hand and I let him take it limply. 

“I was scared, Bucky! I didn't know what they were going to do if I told anyone. I didn't want them to hurt you.” I look into those gorgeous eyes of his, now brimming with tears from my confession. 

“They hurt you though… and that's enough to hurt me. I care about you Y/N…” he looks down to our joined hands and I feel a droplet fall on my palm. His words from earlier in the day come floating back around in my mind and I fight the lump in my throat to get my words out.

“I think I love you too.”

“What?” He looks up sharply. His eyes are wet but he isn't actually crying any longer- is that a good thing?

“You said it. Earlier. I didn't want to say it back because... I was mad and I thought you were just saying things and… yeah. But I do think it too. I… love you, Bucky.” I sigh with a shy smile. Oh God please say something soon.

“You… you do?” He breaks out into a grin.

“Yeah, I do!” I reciprocate his smile, a laugh escaping me. To my complete surprise, he leans forward very quickly and plants his lips onto mine, day old stubble tickling my nose. It's brief. He pulls away as fast as he came in, muttering sorry over and over again.

“That was way too forward I'm sorry.” He lets go of my hands and starts to fiddle with his watch. I must be mad. Our just suddenly full of confidence, I don't know. I get off my bar stool and stand between his legs, his hands automatically going to hold my waist. I can feel the warmth of them through my dress and it feels good, familiar. It just feels right. Hands cupping his face, I lean closer

“I like forward.” I say and I lean in for another kiss.

The stool quickly becomes uncomfortable so we move to my couch, stealing kisses and bumping into the side table as we stumble backwards to the cushion covered three seater. I reach behind me and blindly throw cushions onto the floor before falling back into the seat and pulling Bucky with me. Giggling, I get into a comfortable position while he sheds his jacket. He hovers over me, muscular arms either side of my head with just enough weight on me not to crush me, leaving kisses across my neck and collar bone. I pull his head up to kiss his lips, desperate to feel his touch. When I let go, he moves down again, further down my body. He caresses me with his hands as he goes down painfully slowly with his eyes trained on my reactions the entire time. I can feel the heat of his breath when he reaches the hem of my dress and stops. I give him a nod, not ready to plead just yet, and he goes ahead, hooking his fingers around my pants and pulling them down my legs. They get discarded somewhere on the floor, I don't really care where. With almost desperation now, Bucky hikes my dress up to my waist revealing my naked lower half. He wastes no time to place his lips onto my pussy sending electricity up my spine.

“Oh God!” I gasp loudly. Bucky hums a laugh of approval making me tingle all over. He licks a stripe, catching that sensitive bundle of nerves, and I have to grab onto the edges of the couch to stop myself from being too loud. This only spurs him on further and he licks and kisses my wet folds until I'm breaking a sweat and moaning obscenely. “Bucky, I think I'm nearly gonna-” my words get lost in my own arousal. As I feel like I'm about to explode from pleasure, he stops and comes back up my body, back to kissing my neck- that little bastard did it again!

“Not yet Y/N.” He grins triumphantly, lifting me up onto his lap. I take my turn to kiss the sensitive skin of his neck, making it absolutely certain that there will be marks in the morning, as he pulls the back zipper of my dress as far as it will go and unhooks my bra. I feel it go slack and fall down to my elbows, my breasts peaking out from the top of my dress. Need and desire burn within me too strong to stand this barrier so I stand up from the couch and let my clothes fall to the floor, kicking them to the side leaving me completely naked in front of Bucky. I'm about to jump back on him but he gets up too. He lifts me up and makes a line for the bedroom, one hand on each asscheek with my legs wrapped around his waist as I continue to kiss his lips and jaw. Well hello, I don't suppose that's your phone in your pocket Mr Barnes.

Once in my room, I know exactly what I want to do. Bucky puts me down on the bed but I immediately get up again and nudge him back to sit down.

“You ain't getting away that easy Barnes, now sit back and relax.” I silence him with a finger to his lips, trailing this finger down his chest to his belt buckle. It comes undone easy enough and I pull it from the loops, dropping it to the floor with showmanship. I then move to his zipper and button, undoing them quite slowly before palming him through his underwear. He breathes deeply, gasping when I pull out his hard cock and massage it up and down. At first, I place a gentle kiss to the tip, looking up briefly to see him lost in bliss. I then drag my tongue slowly up the shaft and to the tip before taking him into my mouth, only a couple of inches at first then bobbing my head back up. I repeat the motion, taking in more this time, then again, to the point that I feel my gag reflex kicking in. Eyes watering, I keep moving my mouth up and down increasing the pace. Bucky tangles his fingers into my hair, tightening his grip when he gets closer to letting go.

“Wait Y/N-” too late. He cums into my mouth and I swallow with ease. Bucky cries out, a shuddering mess on my bed. Payback is sweet (and a little bit salty).

Bucky recovering from his high laid on my bed, I nip to the bathroom to swill some mouthwash around my mouth and grab the fresh box of condoms from my cupboard. He's sat up when I come back, his eyes following me. I toss the box to the head of the bed and retake my seat on Bucky's lap. I kiss him slowly, reaching for the hem of his t shirt and breaking apart to lift it over his head- those pecs will be the death of me one day. He lifts me off of him smoothly and stands to pull his jeans down. Before he can take off his boxers, I stop his hands, pulling him onto the bed. On top again (I'm starting to like the view from this angle), I straddle him, moving my hips slightly against his erection as sucks right below my ear. His boxers take some tugging from here but eventually side down his legs, meeting their fate with the rest of his clothes. I grab the box and rip it open, condoms flying everywhere, grabbing one of the packets from the bed. Bucky watches me slide it down his length and holds my waist as I lower myself onto him. Biting my lip, I use Bucky's solid arms to lift myself up and back down again. I begin to bounce at a steady rhythm, enjoying every aspect of this position.

“Fuck…” Bucky groans, his hands holding my waist tighter. I start to go faster (with his help) and feel my toes curling as I get closer and closer to euphoria. “Fuck Y/N/N…” his exclamations spur me on, sending a tingle through my body. Faster still I go, really feeling the burn in my thighs (man, this is a real workout). The coil in my abdomen is wound so tightly it's becoming impossible to ignore.

“Oh fuck!” My orgasm crashes into me like a mighty wave. Bucky follows closely behind, his sporadic pace ending with a moan of my name.

Once cleaned up, we lie in each other’s arms in content silence, allowing sleep to come to us after such hard work. I snuggle into his side, using his shoulder as a pillow, thinking he must be asleep after being still for so long. He squeezes his hand on my arm and places a kiss on my head.

“I love you.”

“I said stop, Caroline. I’ve moved on and so should you.” I step back from her cloud of perfume to try and clear my head. She is one manipulative, sly, intoxicating, suffocating woman. Not a day goes by that it doesn’t baffle me I ever thought I loved her- enough to want to marry her!

“Moved on? Darling, could you really let me go so easily? Because I doubt it.”

“Well I have. So you need to get over this, us, and accept it because…”

“Because what, Juju?”

“Because I love her.” Wow, didn’t expect that to come out. I love her. I love Y/N. Caroline looks taken aback by my sudden confession, a sour glare in her unblinking eyes like I just said the worst thing she could ever hear. 

“You love her… Who is she?” her voice has gotten lower and I notice her fists are clenched so tightly they’re turning white. She seems almost dangerous in this state. I have, in the past, seen just how bad her temper can get and it is not something I wish to see again (not to say I don’t have a few anger issues myself sometimes). We went jewellery shopping and they didn’t have the necklace that she wanted. The screaming tantrum that both myself and the store clerk had to endure was ear piercing and so offensive to the point I tipped the poor man for his patience with her.

“It’s none of your business who she is. Goodbye Caroline.” I nod my head before backing out of the gardens and going back to the benefit- I think it’s time Y/N heard my confession too.

Everyone is considerably more drunk than when I headed outside; Steve is actually stumbling around the dancefloor and he is no lightweight. Wanda and Vis are getting along swimmingly which is good to see since I’ve been rooting for the pair since she pulled out his name for secret santa. Natasha is the only person sat on their own but I assume Clint will return soon. And Y/N is nowhere to be seen- she must have just gone to the bar or something. 

“What’s wrong Barnes, you look a little lost there.” Nat asks with a mysterious smile, like she knows a secret and wants you to ask about it.

“Have you seen Y/N?” I ask back, scanning the crowd by the bar and not seeing the eye-catching red of her dress.

“I have. Is there something going on there between the two of you? You were looking quite… close earlier.” She’s very wise with her words, is Natasha. But I do not have time for this right now.

“None of your business Romanoff! Where did she go?”

“Ugh, you’re no fun. She left in a hurry about two minutes ago, looked pretty upset too. I asked her what was wrong and she told me to bite her so someone clearly pissed her off. Wasn’t you, was it?” she laughs, her evening’s alcohol intake boosting her playful mood. She can keep wondering for now. I stride quickly to the front doors and out into the cool evening air, most of the press having cleared their cameras and left. There are a few smokers hanging around and a couple of other people dotted along the street waiting for taxis and limousines. None of them I recognise as Y/N. She must have caught a driver’s attention already. Damn! Giving up quickly in my search thanks in part to the chilly breeze, I wander back inside to the table to finish the drink I forgot about when I spotted Caroline lurking in the corner. “No luck?”

“No. I must have just missed her. Did she say where she was going when she left?”

“Well I thought she’d gone looking for you earlier but then she ran back through nearly in tears. I didn’t want to get yelled at so I let her go. You know I don’t like getting involved in arguments.” Nat tells me before sipping on a fresh martini. She came looking for me? Surely she didn’t see me with Caroline. Oh God, she must have! I need to call her, now!

Y/N’s POV

I attack the punching bag so ferociously I feel like I could break it from it’s chain. A sheen of sweat has broken out across my skin and my muscles ache from the repetitive exercise but I can’t stop- I need to get all of this anger out of me and this is the healthy way to do it right?

“Do want to take a break?” Nat huffs from holding the bag for me, concern bringing her brows together in a frown.

“Nah, I’m good.” I pant, bracing my legs for the next set. She steps back from the bag before I can start and sits on the bench with her water bottle, gulping nearly half of it down in one, “Fine, we’ll take a break.” I stay stood, grabbing my own bottle from the floor.

“You okay?” Nat leans back on the wall, regarding me.

“Yeah, I’m not tired yet.”

“That’s not what I meant and you know it.” Damn, I’m not as good of a liar as I thought.

“I’m done with men. That’s all.” I punch the bag weakly, causing it to swing in the air. Nat laughs and sits forwards with her elbows resting on her knees.

“Men too? Just a few weeks ago you were giving me your power speech on how you’re completely done with women and never want to see boobs again unless they’re your own or in porn.” 

“Okay, well clearly I was exaggerating about that part. I’m just done with dating and shall remain single forever.”

“Sure… who hurt you?”

“That guy that I decided to go for it with? I caught the douche getting with his ex.” I admit, leaving out all of the details.

“Really? What a dick. What did he say?”

“He doesn’t know I know. But he keeps calling and I never want to hear his stupid voice again.” That might be a little tricky with us literally working together but I can always get a new job. I saw Stark Industries was hiring.

“And you’re not even going to give him an explanation? Ruthless, I like it.” Nat stands back up, strapping her gloves on for her turn at punching. “What if he tries finding you in person to talk, what do you do then?”

“I… don’t know.” I’m going to have to face him. I’m going to have to face that cheater’s stupid fucking face and tell him it’s over. He may not even be sorry, he may fire me on the spot, he might try to lie his way out of it all. I just don’t know. I do know, however, that I’ll probably end up crying at work in front of everybody and everyone will find out we slept together and HR will get involved and it’ll turn into one big mess and I may never find work again and end up living with my parents-

“Y/N, breathe! You got stuck in your own head again.” Natasha runs up to me and grabs my hands, making over-exaggerated breathing motions until I stop hyperventilating. I have got to stop doing that.

“Sorry.”

“Don’t apologise. I think you have a lot of thinking to do. On your own.”

“Yeah, I think I do.”

My arm muscles are so sore and my legs feel fuzzy when I finally flop onto my bed, home from the gym. I can still feel the pain from my morning hangover ebbing slowly away too. But none of it compares to pain I felt last night seeing Bucky with Caroline again, back with the woman he claimed to despise more than anyone on the planet (even more than Stark). Back with the woman that cheated on him for God knows how long with an intern from his own office. He’d seemed so genuine with me but I guess it was all an act of happiness until he could get back with her. Just the mere thought of him faking every smile, every moment with me, sends a sickening, twisting feeling through my heart and puts a bitter taste in my mouth. This stings much more than when India left, strangely- she just packed her things and called it quits. Bucky cheated. I don’t even know if any of our so-called relationship was real. I do know that I wish he would stop calling though. Letting my phone ring through, I stare blankly at my own reflection in my vanity mirror as I often like to do when my life is falling apart before me. He’ll leave a voicemail, adding to the 12 already in my inbox and the 26 texts I haven’t read and yet… I can’t bring myself to do the smart thing and block him. I’m about to step into the shower (yes, I don’t dare put one foot in the gym showers, bleh) when I see a different name brighten my screen- Steve. It could be baby news! Peggy was due a scan at some point and as it turns out, she was a few weeks further along than she thought. I quickly swipe to answer.

“Steve! Any news on Baby Rogers?”

“It’s not Steve, Ava, it’s me…” A deeper, pained voice informs me- Bucky. That sly bastard!

“What do you want?” I ask with such venom, I hope it comes across that way on his end.

“I wanted to see if you’re okay! You’ve not been answering your phone all day and you ran off last night. Where did you go?” He sounds upset. I hope he is.

“I went home. I saw you Bucky so don’t bother trying to deny it.”

“I… I didn’t-”

The boutique is very high end and I feel rather out out of place. This is somewhere that minor celebrity brides and debutantes some to, not graphic designers from the marketing department of a tech company. I’ll not be able to afford anything here and still have money for rent this month- it was nice of Bucky to book it though. I think I’ll just find something online or maybe there’s a sale rack in here.

“Y/N Y/L/N?” a kind looking young woman stands at the desk by the entrance way. She’s smartly dressed with her hair in a low bun and perfect makeup. She’s the kind of person I aspire to be when I look in the mirror. 

“Yes, I’m not too early, am I?”

“Not at all, we actually like our clients to be early so we can better prepare. Can I get you a drink?” ‘Sarah’ according to her name badge offers with a smile. Champagne. She means champagne. Sure, why not?

“Yes please.” I relax a little and gladly let her lead me to some sofas. As I sit down there’s a woman on one of the pedestals in a crystal white gown that just graces the floor. Diamantes adorn her collar bones, shoulders and arms and a silk sash separates the bodice from the flowing skirt. She looks like a goddess of purity with a look of pure joy on her face. An older woman, presumably the mother, stands to her feet with teary eyes and takes her hands. I’ve never understood the whole big deal with wedding dresses and finding the perfect one; it’s just a dress after all. Why does it matter so much that people find the dress? If the person you’re marrying loves you so unconditionally, they won’t care what you’re wearing, all that will matter is that they are getting married to you. 

Another woman collects me from the couch and leads me to a changing room complete with three full length mirrors and a little white leather pouffe. There is a range of dresses hung up on the rail already that I guess Bucky must have picked out already for me to try on, or maybe the nice ladies here chose them for me and my little wallet of money. Do I even want to look at the price tags?

“So most of the dresses have simple zip up the side but if you need any help, I’ll be right outside.”

“Thank you.” I nervously smile at Not Sarah before she backs out of the room and leaves me to choose the first poor dress to be put on my body. They are all so beautiful and my non-model figure isn’t going to help show that. I lift the first dress off from the rail, the weight of the navy lace coming as a shock (I have to hold it up with both arms to look at it properly). As Not Sarah said, it’s a simple zip from the middle of the thigh to the ribcage so I need no help putting it on. Wow! It has quite a long train and a tight bodice that pushes my boobs up in a not unflattering way. I look hot! It is, however, not really appropriate for a benefit attended by partners and other professionals. On to the next dress!

Who knew, trying dresses could be so fun? Before I know it, I’ve tried on nearly the whole rack and they all look amazing- in fact, there is only one left. I don’t know how I’ll decide which one I want. Maybe it’ll have to be from the price tags. Carefully running my fingers over the beaded fabric, I lift the last dress from it’s hanger and undo the zipper. The organza skirt is decorated with beads and glitter down to the floor and separated from the matching low cut (but not too low, this is a classy event) top by a sparkling belt. The charmeuse underskirt adds weight and a nice flow to the A-line cut of the dress while not being so heavy as to pull on my back muscles and make me slouch. The ruby red colour is gorgeous to look at and definitely a perfect fit for a fancy benefit. I love it. And to top it all off, it’s an amazing fit for me. I think it’s the one.

“Is everything going okay, in here?” a woman asks politely from outside.

“Yes, thank you.” I shout back, a little preoccupied admiring myself on the mirror in this dress. I spin on the spot, the light catching and bouncing off of the shiny detailing making me feel like the fanciest glitter ball there ever was. Bubbling with glee, I hurry to my bag and fish out my phone to snap a photo for Wanda- she’ll love it. I add lots of red hearts to the message before hitting send and admiring the dress some more. It’s too beautiful and perfect and amazing to pass up, no matter the price (I’m sure I can live off bargain rice for a month). With the dress back on it’s hanger, I exit the dressing room with a beaming smile and head to the front desk to pay hand over a dizzying amount of money.

Sarah is back and greets me with a friendly smile. She takes the dress and hands it over to Not Sarah, whose name turns out to be Sara in a weird coincidence, who then takes it to the back room for safe keeping.

“We’ll deliver the dress to your address on Saturday morning, freshly dry cleaned so there’s no need to worry about that. Is there anything else we can help you with today?”

“No that’s everything, thank you. How much is that going to be then?” I ask a little hesitantly, pulling out my purse from my bag.

“Oh, that’s taken care of already. We’re under instruction to charge and all of your expenses to Mr Barnes’s account.” Wait what?! I can’t believe he would do something so sweet. Well, I can. This is Bucky.

“Um, okay then… Right… Thank you...” I step back from the desk- do I just leave then? I guess I do. Probably looking like an absolute fool, I back out of the boutique and onto the busy sidewalk, getting my phone out to send a text.

-You really didn’t have to pay for the dress you know. Thank you xx -Anything for my girl xx

The Retreat Tags:

“You can spare a few minutes to talk! Y/N, you have to let me explain.” He takes a step closer and I get up from my seat, ready to make him leave.

“I don’t have to do anything. If I was a rebound, you could’ve just told me, you didn’t need to be a dick about it.” “You’re not a rebound to me! She caught me by surprise at the benefit so I went to talk to her and ask her to leave and she kissed me.” He desperately tries to make his case and I’m inclined to believe him. God I want to believe him. But I saw that kiss and it wasn’t all innocent on his part.

“You kissed her back.”

“At first yes… because… she was familiar and for a minute it was like I’d forgotten everything that she’d done to me. And then I remembered and I stopped it and I went looking for you.” He is a man on the verge of a breakdown and I hate to be the one causing him such pain but I can’t just let something like this go so easily- this is serious. And what kind of self-respecting woman would I be if I didn’t?

“Is your confession of still having feelings for your ex-girlfriend supposed to somehow make me feel better?”

“I don’t! I don’t have feeling for Caroline at all! She is my past and I want you to be my present and future.” He what now? This is some serious psychological torture bullshit right here. “You what?” I take a step closer to him, within reaching distance but far away enough to make a quick exit.

“I think… I think I love you Y/N.” He did not just say that. I can’t deal with this right now, I have to get out of here and away from him. 

“I have to go.” I push past him and out of the door, ignoring Wanda and Maria’s questions as I get the hell out of the office. I just need some air and my closest option right now is the roof (or jumping out a window but that might hurt a bit).

The roof of the Barnes and Rogers building. It’s wonderful after dark when the city gets lit up. Right now it offers a beautiful daytime view of the skyline far from any of the goings on on the ground and the endless loud noise. I can see the streets of lined up cars, the drivers unaware of just how long they’ll be stuck in the jam. Over on the neighbouring building, there’s a group of pigeons waddling around and scavenging for food, maybe looking at me thinking I’m a peculiar looking bird. It’s an ideal hiding spot right now. Or so I think. As I’m busy admiring the architecture around me, I’m startled by the sudden opening of the door. It’s Nat.

“How the hell did you find me? How did you even know I was missing?” I ask her, very irritated at being disturbed. 

“We had a 1 o’clock meeting that you missed. I came looking and Wanda said you went up in the elevator. Not many places to go up from your floor.” Nat would make a really good detective if she ever switched field of interest.

“Oh. Well I’d rather be alone right now.” I tell her but instead of leaving, she joins me resting on the railings. “Alright then, join me.”

“Is this guy giving you shit?” she questions, point blank.

“Wh- No! He’s just… given me a lot to think about. I’m fine.” I can feel the tears tightening my throat and threatening to spill.

“Says the woman hiding on the roof from all of her problems. You’re not fine Y/N/N.”

“He said it didn’t mean anything and he felt nothing. But I saw him, he… they were a perfect match. Two good looking people who were in love.” And yet he said he loves me, or thinks he loves me, which is huge.

“Sounds to me like this is also a personal issue. Do you think you’re not good enough to date him? Cos, let me tell you, if he goes around kissing exes then you’re too good for him.”

“It’s Bucky!” Oh my God what?! Did I really just say that? What is wrong with me? Oh my fucking God! Maybe she didn’t hear me yell his name.

“What?!” I think she heard, dumbass.

“The guy… It’s Bucky- Mr Barnes- Our boss! That’s why it’s so messed up. That and a few other things.”

“Start from the very beginning.”

I tell Nat every single detail of my story from the first kiss to the benefit, from the sickening photos left at my doorstep to the red spray paint I cleaned from my door. Naturally I leave the more intimate elements of the whole ordeal for both mine and Bucky’s dignity; I have a feeling she can fill in the gaps for herself. I don’t cry, I don’t really show any signs of emotion as I speak. I just tell it like I’m disconnected from it all, like it is someone else’s story. 

“Woah… that’s quite the story.”

“Yeah…  that it is.” Man, I wish I had vodka right this second.

“And Wanda found out before me?” Nat turns to give me a hurt look. I exhale heavily from my nose and smile briefly.

“Hey, that’s just how things panned out. I didn’t want to tell anyone.”

“Still, it hurts a bit that I didn’t find out first... What are you going to do?”

“I was kind of hoping you’d tell me what to do. I… I don’t know. Stark was looking for a new marketing manager a few weeks back, I got headhunted actually, and I was thinking maybe I could see if the job was still available.” I admit, staring at the clouds moving overhead.

“Your plan is to run away. That’s… that’s not okay.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, you shouldn’t have to leave because of something Barnes did. That cheater, whether he meant it or not, does not deserve to get on with his life like normal while you completely screw yours up. Stark Industries, really?” Nat screws up her face in disgust.

“Seriously, that’s what bothers you?!” I throw my hands up in the air and step away from the rail, the wind whipping my hair into my face, “It’s a good job! And I’d get an office at Stark Tower working alongside Tony himself- say what you want about him, the man is a technological genius.”

“But you wouldn’t be really happy. The job would be a constant reminder of all of this and everything you gave up for him. And you wouldn’t be with the team anymore, you’d be with a bunch of strangers that you haven’t known for as long as you’ve known us. For as long as you’ve known me.” Nat turns to me with tears brimming her eyes, something that I’ve rarely ever seen in the 10 years I’ve known her. 

I was a lonely freshman in college, heading off to pledge a sorority when we bumped into each other. I asked for directions and she ended up talking me out of joining, saying sororities are an over-hyped part of the college experience and encourage negative female stereotypes. She seemed edgy and cool and we really hit it off so she invited me back to her place for beer and chinese takeout. She was a sophomore majoring in business and management. Over our years together we grew close and we made sure to keep in contact after graduation so when the time came that Bucky brought me his business plan and asked for recommendations for the team, I just had to put Nat forward for a position. We’ve been through so much together with the business and in our personal lives.

“I’m not leaving you behind, I’d never do that! I just… I can’t do this. I can’t come into work and pretend that I’m fine seeing him everyday when I’m really not! What about when he gets a new girlfriend, or if he gets back with Caroline, what then?” I begin to break down, allowing all of the cracks I’d been trying to hold together show. Nothing would hurt more than if Bucky was to start parading a new girl around the office with a smile just for her and an arm on her waist. 

“It might seem hopeless now but things will get less awkward with time, trust me.” Nat tries to reason.

“But it won’t! Nat I thought… I love him…” I choke back a sob with one hand pressed to my mouth, my body shaking in the cold wind. Natasha runs to me and wraps me in a hug immediately, whispering in my ear,

“I’m sorry, I didn’t realise… I was just being selfish. If you want to go, you can go, I’ll support you no matter what.”

“Thank you.” I whisper back, nuzzling into her shoulder like an upset child. I don’t want to have to leave this company and all of the amazing people that I work with, she’s right about that. But, I just can’t stay after this.

Never has a day at the office been so draining, emotionally much more than physically for sure. When I finally step into the lobby of my apartment building after a sweaty subway ride, I am so ready for a long bath and my bed. The walk up the stairs goes by in a blur until I reach my door and my eyes go wider than carnival ferris wheels- with roses in hand and a charming smile this is one person I did not expect to see outside my front door.

“I was wrong to leave. I thought it was best for us but I’ve been so miserable without you Y/N/N.” India smiles a hopeful smile as she speaks. Note the lack of an actual apology. Almost on the point of laughing from the ridiculousness that is this situation, I tip my head back and walk a few paces on the spot. Meanwhile India just stays put smiling by my front door preventing me from just heading inside and locking her out.

“Please leave. Just go and don’t come back.” I step aside to make a path to the stairwell. India moves towards it but it quickly becomes apparent that she’s actually aiming for me and I freeze on the spot.

“Tell me right now that you don’t want this.” she says breathily, her face ridiculously close to my own. Is that alcohol on her breath?

“I don’t want this India. Now go!” I look up into her eyes defiantly and keep steady, my resolve unwavering. Go me! She doesn’t move though, not to leave the building. Her face gets closer and her lips purse in order to kiss me but I react too quickly for her, turning my face down and to the right to look at her shoes. Her sneakers. Black converse with scuff marks on fabric and discoloured laces… and splashes of red paint on the toes.

It was her! India painted my door. India called my phone. India sent me the photos. India is my stalker! It was all her.

“You! You’re the one who’s been stalking me! Don’t try to deny it, the paint is on your shoe.” I push her gently away from me as I make my accusations. Her demeanour immediately switches to something far more sinister as she starts to laugh.

“You always did have an eye for the details didn’t you?” She asks rhetorically- now it’s her turn to walk around on the spot with one hand running over her face and through her hair. “Yes, it was me. Well, not all me. We hired a PI to take those photos and follow you around with that fool of a CEO you work for. I never would have pictured the two of you together until I had the photographic proof. The idea was to get you to dump him so we could carry on our jobs but you just wouldn’t do it so, we had to take drastic measures.”

“What are you talking about.” I whisper, frightened.

“I’m not a fucking therapist, am I? We work for HYDRA Technik. They found openings to gather intel on Barnes and Rogers so put us to work undercover, lucky you.” I can’t believe what I’m hearing- it’s insane!

“Wait… who’s we?” 

“Caroline! Thought you’d have got that one by now genius. They hired her when she first started dating Barnes, paid quite the hefty some for that gold digger but she’s been invaluable. Your face was a real picture at the gala by the way.”

“Wha- You were there?!” Caroline being a lying, backstabbing spy comes as no surprise to be honest but I think if my ex was at a party, I’d have seen her.

“That man didn’t back into by accident you know. We had to get you out of the way so Caroline could get Barnes distracted. It was supposed to end with the two of them getting back together but the real outcome was so much more enjoyable.” India grins like the cheshire cat. It was all a ploy and not Bucky’s fault at all. He really was telling the truth. This is the most messed up story I’ve ever heard and it just makes me feel violently ill- mine and India’s relationship was never even real! Much of the last year of my life wasn’t real. Is she even really a lesbian?

“Why would you-”

“To get back in position you dumb bitch! You were never meant to work it out but I guess that’s not going to happen now. Because of you, things are a little more complicated.” India snarls. I only just manage to duck in time as she makes a swing for my head.

Bucky’s POV

“What do you want Caroline?” I pace around the window of my apartment, whiskey in hand and a frown on my face. She saunters in, gently leaving her bag on my couch and taking a seat as though she still lives here. Her whole demeanour is completely wrong for this situation; she’s too calm, too relaxed, and there’s something else too as if she knows something that I don’t and it’s right there just under the surface. What does she know? There’s always something with Caroline, it's never just simple and straightforward. That’s partly why I was relieved when things ended- the mystery and the games draw you in but I’m too old for those games now. Y/N is exciting in a whole new way, a good way. And she doesn’t mess with my head.

“You and I both know the answer to that one Juju. This isn’t over, it never was. We’re so perfect for each other and we shouldn’t let all of that perfection go to waste now, should we?”

“Like I’ve told you before, you screwed it up. And I’m glad, thankful even! Because of you, I have Y/N and I could not be happier.”

“Y/N… So that’s who you’re new little fling is. It’s sweet of you to consider the aesthetically less fortunate.” Her voice is sweet but her words are twisted and borderline evil-villain-like. Wait,

“How did you know I’d moved on? No one did- have you been following me?” Her smile falls from her eyes leaving a creepy, empty expression behind, I think I’ve found what seemed wrong before.

“I… No.” She stands up having regained her smile although it is clearly fake. She knew about me and Y/N, who knows for how long, meaning she knew exactly what she was doing when she came to see me at the benefit and she knows what she’s doing now.

“Have you been following me Caroline?” I clench my fists and step over to where she is now pacing. She swallows hard, maybe from fear or the guilt, her tough shell showing cracks like a porcelain doll.

“I didn’t follow you.” I hear the tremble in her voice. Liar.

“If you didn’t, who did you pay?”

“Nobody, JuJu I swear I didn't-”

“I'll only ask one more time, Caroline. Who did you send to follow me and Y/N?” my contained rage causes me to shake, nails digging into the palms of my clenched fists. For a moment, she doesn't answer, remaining poised and staring me down. But those cracks just can't hold.

“He was just some PI, I don't know the details. India did all of the planning and stuff, I just did as I was told.” She tears up, turning away to dab at her eyes.

“Wait, India as in Y/N’s ex India?” 

“Yeah, she hired me to work with her.” Caroline fishes a packet of tissues from her purse and blows her nose loudly. India was working with Caroline, that fact makes no sense in its own.

“But why? Who were you working for? India was a therapist!” I look to her, completely confused, to see her touching up her smudged makeup around her eyes- it's all image with her! 

“I haven't a clue what she did, I just know HYDRA Technik were the ones paying for it all.”

HYDRA! Those backwards bastards are behind this?! I've heard of them using desperate and, more importantly, illegal measures to get ahead in the technology game. They've never come close to our own sales before, something to do with a bug they never fix in the voice and facial recognition software, but if they've been spying on the competition they might just have an edge with their upcoming releases. Hell, they may even take over the whole market! And what about Stark industries? Do HYDRA have people on the inside in Tony's offices too? Do I warn him? He may be my enemy but I wouldn't wish the theft of work on my worst enemy, especially not HYDRA with their ways of working. God damn my conscience, I'll call later.

“If you were working for HYDRA why did you come back, Caroline? Not get enough info to please your bosses?” I focus back on the problem at hand, that problem being Caroline. She's dry-eyed and back to picture perfect. That being said, her perfect image is significantly tarnished in my eyes now knowing what she's done.

“India told me to, it's her you should be asking all of these questions. In fact, she's probably at Y/N’s little apartment right now.” she admires her nails, waving her hand around when mentioning Y/N.

“She is? Why?”

“That was the whole idea… I get back with you and she gets back with Y/N. It really wasn't meant to go like this, who knows what they're going to say back at the office.”

“I hope I'm not too late…” I mutter to myself whilst grabbing my jacket and phone.

“You're going?!” 

“I have to do something!”

Y/N’s POV

India's fist collides with the plaster where my head was as I fall back into the pot plant by my door toppling it over, soil and leaves going everywhere. Rest in peace Planty, sorry for forgetting to water you so often. Heart thumping, I barely have time to get back up before India is doing it for me, yanking me by the lapels; man she is strong! With my toes barely touching the ground, she holds me up with an arm across my throat, my windpipe squeezed tight. 

“S-st-op… p-leas-se…” I sputtering, rapidly running out of oxygen.

“Sorry my darling but we can't have you talking now, can we?” Her smile is sickening, twisted- has she done this before? These hands that used to touch me so lovingly will now be the cause of my death. Poetic? I hate poetry. Using all of the remaining energy I have, I kick and punch and scratch and fight to stay alive. She must be immune to pain as she doesn't react to any injury I inflict. The edges of my vision go black and fuzzy, hot tears running down my face. Strangling takes a while doesn't it?

“Ahh!” I squeak in pain as India increases the pressure on my neck. The agony is never ending and I feel like my spine might just snap in two- I kind of wish it would so this ordeal would just be over. 

“Oh my God, Y/N/N!”

“Wow!” Wanda and I stand open mouthed at the two black limousines parked outside my apartment building. A blacked out window rolls down to reveal Bucky with a wide grin and perfectly groomed hair. Like a true gentleman, he gets out to hold the door open for me.

“Vision is in the one behind for you, Wanda.” He smiles as I take his hand and slide inside. Wanda gives me a wide-eyed look of excitement before heading for her own ride.

“Well this sure is fancy.” I laugh as Bucky gets in next to me and places a quick kiss on my cheek before motioning to the driver to go.

“You look… stunning, Y/N.”

“Well thank you,” I smile shyly at the floor, “You clean up pretty well too.” “Thanks, I showered and everything.”

“For me? How sweet.”

“So… how do you want to do the little red carpet? People know that you’re my plus one but they don’t know you’re my date.” Bucky asks, his thumb moving back and forth over my knuckle and an intent look in his eyes. I’d love nothing more than to walk out with Bucky’s hand on my waist and answer ‘yes’ to when the interviewers ask if we’re an item. But is it too soon? Should that matter?

“What if we leave them guessing?”

“How so, doll?” a mischievous twinkle shines in his eyes.

“We just act like ourselves and when they ask, say nothing. It can be our little secret from everybody.”

“I like the sound of that…” Bucky sidles up closer to me, leaning in for a kiss. 

“Sir, we’re just pulling up outside now.” startled, we break apart as the driver announces our arrival from behind the dividing screen. I guess it’s showtime.

“Over here, Y/N!”

“Y/N, look this way!” photographers shout from all directions as flashes of light dazzle my eyes. I find myself disorientated and struggling to find where to go but Bucky is right there on my arm, guiding me along the carpet and all the way into the venue. 

“Mr Barnes! Mr Barnes!”

“Mr Barnes, are you dating again?” Reporters try to stop us and ask questions but we don’t stay around long enough to listen.

“You okay?” Bucky cups my face in one hand the moment we’re out of sight from everyone. Breathing heavily from nearly running in heels, I lean up and kiss his grinning lips.

“I’m good.” 

“What d'ya say we go find some champagne and join this party?” 

“I like the sound of that.” I turn and look to the bustling grand hall that is the location for the benefit this evening- it's decked out in lavish purple drapes and arrangements of orchids with many round tables for guests. So this is what it's like being a millionaire.

Wanda and Vis walk over to our table a few minutes after we sit down, taking complimentary champagne from a passing waiter and marvelling at the huge setting for our dinner this evening. It's odd seeing people from the office all dressed up and getting quite tipsy- especially Clint and Natasha over on the other side of the table sharing one chair. Seems like some people really don't shy away from PDA. 

“I thought that sort of thing was for after dinner.” Bucky leans in to whisper in my ear, fake innocently. I bite my lower lip to stifle my laughter causing Bucky to tighten his grip on my knee ever so slightly, “You're driving me crazy with that, doll.”

“Mr Barnes… I thought that sort of thing was meant for after dinner.” I giggle back into his ear. He's insatiable sometimes. Not that I'm complaining.

“You really do look beautiful tonight. Not that you don't normally look beautiful- you look amazing all the time- I just meant-”

“You're too sweet sometimes, you know.”

“I mean it.” He catches my eyes and hold my gaze, a mysterious look sparkling behind them. Is it too soon for the L word yet? I don't want to sound desperate.

“Ahem, Y/N?”

“Yes… Wanda! Hey, yes… what's up?” being pulled back down to earth is not a good feeling.

“I just thought I should point out that if you two want to stay a secret, you should probably leave the giggling until you're not surrounded by everyone you know. People are staring.” Oh God, I forgot- people. So far things have been quite innocent but people talk and speculate and spread gossip. People can't be trusted. Now is not the time for all of my colleagues, Bucky's entire staff, to find out about our relationship which is still in its infancy; how do you explain things if they don't work out. I hate to be cynical but the thoughts are always there. 

“Shit, she's right doll. We… we shouldn't. But later?”

“Definitely later.”

Avoiding the stares of disapproving colleagues, Wanda and I split from our dates for the evening to go to the open bar (which is heaving with people, wonder why). Yes, there are waiters weaving their way around the hall to serve tipsy guests bucketfuls of more champagne but if you want something other than overpriced fizzy wine you must make the journey to the much too small bar. And I want my trusty old friend red tonight. 

“So, you guys looked like you were getting pretty serious over there.” Wanda casually brings up me and Bucky when we finally make it to the bar.

“Not just yet Wanda, it's still early days.” I brush her off while trying to ignore the crush of people pushing into my back.

“So you're telling me that if he said the big l-o-v-e right here and now, you'd run for the hills?” Umm… No! I'd probably jump his bones and show him just how much I love him too. But she doesn't need to know the details.

“I… wouldn't be against it…”

“Really!?”

“Here you go, ladies.” The bartender slides one glass of red and another of white wine over to us with a clearly fake smile- who cares, we have wine now! 

“That's amazing, Y/N/N! You two are clearly in love with each other, why not make the leap of faith?” It's like she can see my thoughts. Quietly thinking of a response that isn't just a polite smile, I turn slowly back to the tables with my glass in hand only for a man to come stumbling backwards into me. Cold red alcohol splashes back at me, running down my chest and soaking into the bodice of my dress. Fan-fucking-tastic! 

“It's not coming off! Can you hand me another tissue?” I dab at the damp material of my dress like a mad person- I'm not even sure why, it's hardly visible. Red on red, how convenient? My dress is sticking to me and it's irritating, that's all.

“Here you go.” Wanda hands me a fresh tissue with an empathetic look. Luckily the wine didn't splash on her dress, it would've been completely ruined, so at least we have that small silver lining I guess. 

“Is it noticeable?” I turn with a sigh, my hands raised in a low effort ‘ta-da’ motion.

“To be quite honest, I can't even see it Y/N/N. You're good.” She smiles, surveying my dress once again. We've been in this bathroom a long time so I imagine Bucky will be wondering where I've got to, and Vis with Wanda- no one takes so long to get drinks even with the enormous queue. 

Feeling very self conscious of my dress, I make my way back to the table with Wanda by my side and probably no one watching me despite what my mind keeps telling me. By the time I take my seat, my dress is bone dry. 

“You two were gone a long time. Everything okay?” Natasha asks, visibly more happy from her inebriated state.

“Yeah, everything's fine. Where's Barnes?” I ask, looking around at his absence.

“He said he saw someone he knew and went to talk to them.” she waves her hand, reaching for her vodka martini with the other.

“Who?”

“He didn't say. He's been gone a while though.” 

“I'll go find him.” I jump right back out of my seat with a slight smile- maybe we can finally get some privacy even if it's just for a little while. I've no clue where to start looking for Bucky but the galleries seem as good a place as any to start. Scanning the crowd as I go, I make my way to the outer edge of the hall where the entrances to the gallery rooms lie without a handsome CEO in sight (well that's not strictly true, I did spot Steve with Peggy over on the dancefloor but you know what I mean). Now as an artist at heart, I'd love to stop and admire all of the wonderful artwork on display but I'm on a literal manhunt right now so maybe another time. Bucky, where have you gone? The galleries are all empty. Perhaps he's on the other side of the hall, in the alcoves. I weave through the throng of guests yet again to the plush seating areas in the alcoves. They're a little more populated than the galleries with couples getting cozy on the couches. There is still no sign of Bucky though. Where could he have gone? I've been searching for so long, I'm feeling the effects of the champagne wearing off! In a last ditch attempt to find him, I push past people to get to the peace garden in the quad area behind the hall; some fresh air might be nice.

It's pleasantly quiet outside with the live music muffled by the walls and the faint city cacophony providing an oddly peaceful atmosphere. I can hear someone talking though. A woman. She's shrill and whiny like many of the stuck up invited guests this evening. She could be the somebody that Bucky knows. I think I hear a man as well but it's hard to tell if it's Bucky with his lower register. Following the voices, I get close enough that a conversation becomes clear,

“Why are you here? How did you even get in?”

“Now now, can't a girl have secrets? I'm here to see you.”

“See me? I thought I made it pretty clear I didn't want to so I would appreciate it if you didn't follow me.”

“You came to me Bucky, not the other way around. You lead a girl to think all sorts of naughty things.”

“I brought you out here to tell you to leave without making a scene.” Bucky growls, quite annoyed now. I have a feeling I know who the woman could be, but my heart wishes that I didn't. Quietly now, I tiptoe towards the edge of the bushes to get a look at what is happening. Bucky is stood with his fingers raked through his hair and a stressed look on his face and none other than Caroline sitting pretty on the stone bench.

“I miss you JuJu. I'm sorry for what I did but I've changed, my darling, I'm a better person now.”

“Are you actually joking? It's been a few weeks since you were fucking another man at our engagement party and now you want to get back together. You're insane.” Bucky moves to storm away but Caroline grabs his hand.

“I love you JuJu, I was an idiot to leave you,” they take steps closer to each other, eyes locked, “I want you…”

“Caroline-”

“Shh! You don't have to talk.” She silences him with a finger to his lips. Then she leans forward and I swear her eyes briefly flit to mine before she pulls Bucky into a kiss. A passionate kiss. Pull away for god's sake! Bucky! He kisses her back with as much need, a moan escaping his captured lips.