#stephy writes

The party was at full swing at the hockey house. Everything should be perfect. Garrett hadn’t yet changed the music playlist, Tucker prepared the perfect snacks, everyone was having fun. Well, judging from Garrett’s slightly off attitude, not everyone.

A girl was chatting up Garrett on the couch, who in return merely smiled with a nod before his gaze would surreptitiously wander to the staircase again. It made them suspicious. Garrett’s body was relaxed, with his arm slung over the couch, but he wasn’t actively doing anything.

Logan played into Dean’s commentary. “I couldn’t agree more, Di Laurentis. The adversary leans forward, hoping he’ll take the bait, but Graham remains civil and uncaring, evading yet another aggressive maneuver in the evening. What do we think of this play?” He turned his head towards him, awaiting his review.

“Very bold, very bold.”

Garrett slowly stood up from the couch, sending her a tight-lipped smile. And another girl was turned down for the evening.

Both let out groans of disappointment. Dean continued, “And now he’s extracting himself from the situation, doing something totally unheard of. Logan, I can’t believe what we’re seeing.”

Tucker shook his head behind them. A delicious smell of Quesadillas emanated from the oven he just opened. “You guys are idiots.”

Mischief was dancing in Dean’s eyes. “Lo and behold, a team colleague sees method to the madness. Maybe we can get an interview from the very much esteemed Forward after the break. John Tucker, talk us through the process.” Logan didn’t waste a second when he copied Dean’s stance, holding the bottle around Tucker’s chin.

Tucker eyed the two of them, taking his time in barely tilting his head to speak into the makeshift microphones. “Maybe tonight’s not about a game.”

At the hint that there was more to it, Logan lowered the drink. Stepping forward, he asked with a lowered voice, “Wait, do you actually know something?”

Dean crossed the kitchen island and slung his arm over Tucker’s shoulder. “Buddy, have we told you yet how much we love and appreciate you?”

Tucker pursed his lips in thought. “Hmmm, not today.” Ignoring their antics, he decided to get back to the food when he sidestepped Dean’s embrace and put the dish on a cooling rack.

“And you look so handsome,” Logan added, vaguely waving his drink at him. “There’s a certain glow about you.”

“Totally.” Dean nodded.

Tucker offered a sage nod. “I’m aware.” He paused, “But it’s nice to be appreciated.”

Hearing Garrett’s voice yanked them out of their attempt to extract information out of their roommate when he entered the kitchen area. “What’s happening over here?”

Logan leaned his hip against the counter. “We could ask you the same thing.”

“What?” Garrett’s focus was more on fetching two water bottles from the fridge than to notice their detective investigations into his behavior. “What are you talking about?”

“Dude, what’s up with your game tonight?” Dean exclaimed, yet he couldn’t help chuckling at witnessing it.

“My game?”

Logan gestured to the living room in disbelief. “You would’ve brought someone upstairs, like three times already.”

Garrett grimaced at the image that evoked. “I’m not a sex fiend. Unlike…” He left the sentiment in the air while eyeing Dean, knowing his friend had way more sex in a single day, also because Dean was always doing it out in the open for the rest of the house to know.

Dean clutched his chest, offering a radiant smile.“Aww, and I wear this badge with pride.” He heaved a pitiful sigh.“It’s not easy being me.”

Garrett curiously leaned over Tucker’s shoulder.“Is it-”

“Done? Yes.” Tucker confirmed, putting a small batch on a plate.

“Thanks, man. Later, dudes!” Armed with the snack, he moved away from the group without looking back, taking two steps at a time up the staircase.

“What the fuck?” Dean waved his hands in the air, confused by his attitude like they were invisible already, still not understanding what was going on.

“(Y/N)’s upstairs,” Tucker explained, without any further ado. Sounds of understanding echoed around him. “She showed up during prep.”

As soon as Garrett opened his bedroom door, he eyed you through the small opening. He offered a small smile as a greeting, not wanting to spook you. “I’ve come bearing reinforcements.”

You were laying over the covers of his bed, only feeling slightly bad at Garrett’s night turning out differently than he expected. “I’m sorry for taking you away from your sexual exploits. I could’ve just as easily hidden in the room of one of the boys.”

“Don’t even finish that thought. There’s a sleepover tradition for a reason. You need me? I drop everything, sexual exploits included.”

First, he offered you the promised food before joining you on the bed. A soft smile tugged at Garrett’s lips when he fluffed the bunch of pillows behind him, remembering the time when you made fun of them for being super fluffy. With his body relaxing, all the air finally exhaled from his lungs.

“You poor thing.” You sent him a playful smirk once you imagined Garrett having to endure a night without sex. Absentmindedly, you laid your head on his shoulder and took a bite from the cheesy-chicken goodness called Tucker’s cooking to ease and maybe fill your stomach after the absolute ordeal of your day.

Garrett rolled his eyes while chuckling. “I think I’ll survive.”

The warm cheese melting in your mouth was a welcome distraction. With your mouth half-full, you hummed with absolute joy and couldn’t control yourself from taking another bite. “Oh my God, this is so good.”

There was a soft expression taking over his face when you held your food inches from his lips, wanting to share it with him. No longer surprised by your strange antics, he merely lifted his chin without averting his unblinking stare. “Really good,” he grunted in agreement, while nodding.

“Why do you always spoil me with Tucker’s home-cooked meals?” You almost didn’t expect him to answer when you continued digging into the little snack.

“Because you deserve it.” Garrett had uttered it with such a quiet voice that you wondered if you heard him right and not your mind playing tricks on you.

The mere affirmation made your stomach feel really fluttery with a nervous energy. Sometimes when Garrett said stuff like that, it felt unbearable to look at him. Not knowing whether you wanted to know the truth, if he said it just because he was such a great friend … or something else. Just like now, you did the next best thing and rested your head on his chest.

“Oh, you are such a sweetheart.”

“Don’t tell anyone,” Garrett grumbled.

His heart was thumping erratically before it became normal again after a few seconds. There was something truly soothing about him stroking your hair before his fingers rubbed up and down your back. Garrett softly whispered against your forehead. “Do you wanna talk about it?”

“And if I don’t?”

“Then we talk about anything else. Or nothing at all. I could tell you about Logan putting his foot in his mouth around some psychology major. Or Dean being absolutely adorable training the Hurricanes. And Tuck-”

You interrupted him, “-is perfect.”

All too aware of your partiality for his friend, Garrett sighed, “Tuck’s perfect. I know.”

Once you felt safely in this bubble, with Garrett talking about the most mundane stuff about your common friends, you felt your body relax against his chest.

Even if you were still nervous how he would react. Well, better to just rip it off like a band-aid.

“He said, he was tired of me being a frigid bitch.”

Garrett’s body language told you more than words ever could. His hand hovered over your shoulder, frozen. Garrett sat up at the revelation. You didn’t need to be close to his chest to hear the growl emanating deeply from his chest when he opened his mouth. “What?” Inhaling deeply for a few moments, his voice sounded a bit more normal but it was still strained. “What was his name again? Dick?”

You didn’t know why you bothered anymore, but you still corrected him, without enthusiasm. “Nick.”

Garrett muttered under his breath. “Same thing.” He returned to his previous position when he leaned back again, willing to hear you out.

“I’m just tired of explaining myself to a guy. When I literally have other things on my mind than to constantly be glued at a guy’s side. I’m swamped with projects, studying for midterms while trying to balance it all by hanging out with friends.” You shook your head. “Maybe I was an idiot for thinking I could have a relationship as a cherry on top.”

You felt him lean closer when he replied with a hoarse voice, “It’s not idiotic.” To prove how serious he was, you felt his fingers carefully touch your knuckles. Craving that small bit of solace, you revealed your open palm until you let Garrett’s fingers lace through yours.

Like two puzzle pieces fitting together.

The food long forgotten, you disentangled from him and laid next to him. “Is it fucked up that my mind is more devastated by his last words than the end of a relationship? We weren’t even together that long.” At the inkling of the first teardrops sneaking in like the traitors they were, you grimaced, feeling taken aback. With your knuckles drying your cheeks, you felt so strange that incredulous chuckles left you. “I don’t even know why I’m crying.”

You felt Garrett’s unyielding stare on the side of your face. “Listen to me, he did that to hurt you. Dick’s not worth your tears.”

“Nick.”

God, why did you keep doing this? This is really the hill you want to die on?

He shrugged. “Still a dick. Fuck him for wanting even more of your attention. Especially if he can see how stressed you are. That’s no relationship. That’s just a damn push-and-pull. He can’t just dictate that you spend less time with your friends.” Garrett raked his fingers through his already tousled hair, appearing nervous all of a sudden. “You guys did break up, right? Your text only said code sleepover.”

“Don’t worry. When someone thinks they can change my mind into having sex and just turns into a misogynistic pig, I don’t go for a break.”

“Good to know. I can have a few choice words with the preppy asshole if we cross paths.”

You snickered. Leave it to Garrett to being unwavering in calling your ex a preppy asshole, even while you were still dating. You snuggled up to the warmth of his side. “No, better not. I don’t want him to think I’m consumed by him. But if you do see him, wouldn’t you mind sending him one of your trademark Garrett Graham death stares?”

Garrett nodded once, not needing any more incentive. “Got ya. I’m gonna treat him like my fiercest hockey nemesis.”

The rest of the boys were not so secretly watching Garrett and you from the kitchen window while you were snuggling up under a blanket by the fire pit outside. The party was coming to an end and there were a few stragglers eating leftover food in the living room area. It was left unsaid how you were wearing a familiar green hoodie which was usually seen on their captain’s torso.

“What’s the latest update?” Dean asked.

With a sympathetic tone, Tucker admitted, “Break-up.” Remembering the almost blank expression on your face when you revealed the tidbit upon your arrival.

Dean groaned. “Fucking jerk. He’s a business major, right?” He crossed his arms. “Think we’re allowed to give him a noogie?”

“Maybe ask Garrett what he wants to do,” Logan replied, trying to be sensible. You were one of them and they hated that you had to go through this. If one of them got hurt, they all got hurt. Even if they wanted to kick Garrett’s butt for not getting off his damn butt.

“Sounds like a plan.” Dean agreed.

Garrett had his arm slung over your shoulder, with your face nestled into his neck, keeping you close. While his hand stroked down your arm, his lips briefly met your forehead in a blink and you miss it moment.

Before they could react on any level - Dean was on the brink of holding his breath to release a dramatic gasp - Garrett turned his head before his eyes zeroed in on them. Like he was conjured by the uttering of his name.

In an almost knee-jerk reaction, Dean and Logan ducked their hands until they were literally on their knees hiding under the window sill. Unlike Tucker, who was too focused on putting away some stuff from the counter when he saw Garrett flipping them the bird, frozen in place.

A wide-eyed Dean nervously switched his gaze between Logan and Tucker. “Do you think he saw us?”

Tucker waved a hand at Garrett, almost compelled, like he couldn’t control the movement. “I think he did.”

“Everything alright?” you asked, sensing Garrett’s focus shifting. You lifted your head from his chest and noticed him ruffling his fingers through his hair.

He cleared his throat, putting on a small smile. “All good. For what it’s worth, your ex is an asshole. Never did deserve you.”

“You know what I just realized? I just don’t know how to be other than this person. And how I’d need to sacrifice one thing to achieve everything else.”

“You don’t need to sacrifice anything. You love to study. You know when to de-stress with friends and where your limits are. I don’t really know why you want a boyfriend, but that’s just me.”

“Of course you do,” you retorted dryly. It was known all across campus how Garrett was not the type to even date. Sometimes you envied his constitution for just going for it, needing only that physical release. As much as you were an analytical person, it still made you anxious that you were still a smidge of a romantic and that the mere intimacy in a purely sexual relationship would trick your brain into believing you were harboring feelings. Damn oxytocin.

Garrett smiled charmingly, bringing you back. “As I was saying … Because you never really needed those guys. And they know it. You’re way too independent for them and they hate that.”

You exhaled heavily, kinda hating him for being right. Barely turning your head to see his reaction, in case he didn’t want to believe you. “Maybe it’s time I stop dating. You know, go for the Garrett way - just have tons of sex and only think of myself. No conditions.”

He tilted his head, deep in thought. That was before he turned back to his confident self. “I’m not sure if you’re trying to insult me. Because objectively it sounds awesome.” His gaze turned pensive. “But only if this is truly what you want.”

You sat up, already missing Garrett’s warmth when you let go of him. “What I want is some good sex.” Your hand caressed your neck, imagining someone touching you who knew what they were doing. “Unfortunately, there are only boys here who have no idea what they’re doing. Sometimes I just want that fulfilling climax.” You threw your head back, moaning quietly. It’s been too long since you had a good orgasm unless it was done by your own fingers. Great, now you were getting horny.

That embarrassed feeling only lasted for a few moments when warmth grew in your cheeks. “And usually every single one gets all pissy when I dare to say I’m not in the mood. What I want is to think of my needs first.”

Hopefully, you didn’t share too much. Typically, Garrett didn’t mind when you talked openly about your sexual needs. Sometimes it just felt really freeing to talk to another sex-positive guy. You wouldn’t have thought after getting to know Sabrina as your roommate that you’d be here now. Having someone like her in your corner certainly did wonders to just outright voicing your wants and frustrations without shame.

Garrett cleared his throat. And coughed for good measure. He did seem a bit awkward the more you talked. He swallowed after taking a sip from his drink. “Maybe you just haven’t found the right one. No hard feelings, but you get a lot of duds.”

Truer words have never been spoken. The mere thought made you stare into the distance. “I am a dud magnet.”

Garrett rubbed the back of his neck, eyeing you warily. “Then,” he paused before muttering the rest in one breath, “let me help you get laid.”

“What?”

“That’s not-” He closed his eyes with a grimace. Giving off the impression that he just blurted out the first thing on his mind before his mouth could stop him. Garrett chuckled. “Let me be your wingman. The moment you want to have sex again, let me know and I’ll double-check all the potential guys you’re into. No more duds for you.”

“Maybe my mind is either in a break-up funk or this one beer is getting to my head. For some reason I think that idea doesn’t sound bad. Or maybe it’s because all after-midnight ideas sound fascinating.”

“See?” Garrett raised his eyebrows, having another sip.

“And how would you ascertain which ones are studs and which ones the duds?” You pointed your finger guns at him, mumbling ‘pew pew’ under your breath.

He groaned from deep within his chest. He closed his eyes, throwing his head back. “Oh my God. I’m going to mentally write down ‘must tolerate (Y/N)’s corny jokes’. It’s called instinct. With most guys you can just tell if they’re good in bed or have the patience to take care of the clit.”

“Oh wow, someone’s very sure of themselves.”

Confidence was emanating from him in waves when he smirked. “Hell yeah, I guess I’m just good at stuff.”

“Prove it.”

His frown was the first hint to the uneasy feeling taking shape. “… Okay.”

“Take Dean for example.”

Garrett made a mournful sound. “I don’t want to think about my friends having sex.”

“So, if you’re not divulging your clit instinct, I’m gonna assume that skill is very selective. Therefore, I can’t fully trust your expertise,” you retorted, mockingly tilting your head in speculation.

Garrett narrowed his eyes. “That’s evil.”

“I guess that’s why we’re such good friends.”

With an exhaling breath, Garrett succumbed to his fate. “Fine, my instinct tells me Dean … loves the clit. Absolutely perverted, nay, unhinged for it.”

You giggled, liking where this was going and leaned the side of your face against your hand. “Tucker?”

Garrett huffed a breath, needing a moment. “Might not know as much but is definitely willing to learn.” He beat you to it when he continued with a pensive air, “Logan … somehow has the hair for it.”

You nodded. “He does.”

“Could be into it. Or at least might be into how much the girl’s into it.” Garrett inhaled deeply. “And yours truly-” He tipped his head back, like he was a drama major about to deliver a monologue.

“Here we go,” you muttered under your breath.

“Absolutely adores the clit. Best friends with the clit. Would marry her if he could.” Garrett nodded playfully, clutching his chest. If you would describe the sound he just made, the words ‘sighing blissfully’ would come to mind. “We’re in a very committed relationship.”

“And she’s very lucky to have you,” you said, shaking your head with a smile before leaning your head against his chest.

The first sensation you felt was warmth. All-encompassing heat at your back as you were lying in bed. Early morning light calmly dancing through the room to rouse its inhabitants to start a new day. In between the precipice of awake and slumber, your body still felt sluggish and wanted to stay where it was. Snuggled into Garrett’s broad frame.

As the thought of Garrett hit you, you couldn’t help wondering if the vague memory tickling your brain was a true recollection of last night or just a very imaginative dream. The hazy memory of Garrett saying “Not a word” and hearing the boys collectively retort “Didn’t say a thing!” when you were half asleep. After you couldn’t remember walking back upstairs and judging by the non-hallucinated words, it made you wonder what happened after you closed your eyes by the fire.

The sheets rustled behind you as you felt Garrett’s arm stir around your stomach.

“G’ morning,” you mumbled all gravelly. You kept your eyes still closed to remain in that relaxed headspace.

“Morning.”

Using his half asleep mentality to your advantage, you spoke up. “Did you carry me all the way upstairs?”

His warm breath ghosted over the back of your neck. “You can’t prove that, counselor.”

You lightly jabbed him into the abdomen. “Don’t call me that.” And instantly hated him (and specifically his muscles) that he barely even reacted, and thus making him the perfect specimen. “Analyst, not counselor. You’re such a smartass in the morning.”

A dramatic gasp left his mouth. “You’re so violent.” The uncontrollable chuckles proved the opposite before he rubbed the sleep from his eyes. “I’ll take that as a compliment. I’m sorry. And here I was always priding myself on sharing the bed with a budding lawyer.”

You snorted. “Then you can share the bed with Dean.”

Garrett grunted, needing a few seconds to recover. “The cuddling could get very crowded in there. Unlike here.” For good measure, his hand tightened around your stomach.

You chuckled, shaking your head, remembering Dean’s tendency for female company. “What a charmer.”

“You want to stay for some coffee?”

“I need to borrow some books from the library at the other end of the campus,” you grumbled.

Garrett sought your warmth again when he mumbled into your shoulder. “I can drive you.”

“Don’t you have training?”

Chuckling, he wriggled your body after hearing your list of reluctant excuses. “Will you stop finding reasons not to hang out and take it easy? Maybe say ‘Oh Garrett, I can’t stand to be apart from you’ to make up for my hurt feelings?”

Snorting with laughter, you refused to cave to the typical Garrett flattery. He already had enough of that. “I’m not a Victorian woman or a member of your fan club.”

With a wry sense of humor, he tsk-ed. “Not with that attitude.” Garrett was already looking at you when you shifted your body until you were facing him. His voice lowered into a whisper, like he was sharing a secret with you. “How are you feeling this morning?” For good measure he stroked a few hairs out of your face.

“Better.” You shrugged. “It’s a new day. I think our clit conversation last night lifted me right up.”

His eyes lit up at the memory. “Good. Any time you need a pick-me-up, just let me know and I’ll pull out the female genitalia talk.”

You nodded jokingly. “Cool, dude.” Garrett reciprocated instantly when he saw you lifting your palm and high-fived you.

“Cool. Let’s get you that coffee.”

At a certain point there were only a handful of people in your life you felt comfortable around to appreciate the silence with. Garrett was one of those people. The two of you were sitting at a table while just enjoying the calm of the morning. Tucker was quietly helping himself to some coffee in the corner. Almost like your thought process summoned a karmic balance, Garrett’s remaining roommates came barging in.

“Would you look at that?” Dean squinted his eyes, like he was staring into the sun, before facing Logan next to him. “Are my eyes deceiving me? Did Garrett finally bring you out to society or was he afraid we’d steal you away from him?”

“Almost didn’t recognize you without G’s hoodie,” he mumbled under his breath, but low enough for you to understand.

Garrett kept his hands around the mug and put on a crooked grin. “Funny.” But not before glaring at him.

“Don’t worry, Dean. You’re still my second,” you paused and mentally debated your ranking, even if it was just for fun, “or third best friend.”

Touching his chest, Dean took a seat by the kitchen counter. “Aww, I made the list.”

“We’re picking up (Y/N) along the way before we get to practice.” Garrett phrased it in a mere statement. He patiently stared at his friends until they’d submit, like he was daring them to.

After hearing echoes of “Cool” and “Sounds fun”, you frowned at Garrett’s attitude. “Did I miss something?” You turned your head, confusedly eyeing his friends to guess the truth from their body language.

“Nope.” This answer was more definitive.

Okay, now you were officially suspicious.

“It’s not my birthday, right?”

“It’s not you.” Logan assured you.

Dean smirked. “G just gets testy when he doesn’t get laid.”

Tucker didn’t play their game when he covered his face, shaking his head, sending you a sympathetic smile.

“Okay, be weird then. I’m calling shotgun. I’ll be picking the music if no one stops me.” You brought your mug to the sink, only hearing rustles and harsh whispers behind you when you grabbed your bag from the living room.

“-can’t believe-” Garrett hissed, followed by Logan’s words.

“Dude, you’re the one being weird.”

When you turned around, you saw Dean open the door with an exuberant energy before you could analyze their conversation. He waved with his arm and leaned against the door structure, with his broad frame hiding whatever Garrett and Logan were doing in the background.

Dean smirked. “Puberty hits some people differently, you know what I mean?”

You merely rolled your eyes at their antics and whatever they were keeping from you. Quick steps rushed behind you as soon as you moved outside. You barely had time to react when an arm slung around your shoulder. With nimble fingers Garrett took your bag to carry it for you.

You narrowed your eyes while glancing at the side of his face. “I’m not even gonna ask.”

The relief was visible on his expression when Garrett sighed. “Good.” To complete the actions of a kind guy he opened the car door for you at the front.

It took you less than a few seconds to appreciate Garrett’s offer to get a ride. This way you could lean back, let the music of the radio station wash over you while Dean leaned forward until his head was inches from your headrest, letting his fingers drum against the sides of your seat.

Dean was being his jovial and carefree self and talking about your upcoming internships for the political science class you were taking.

Logan mirrored Dean next to him when he leaned forward until his gaze caught the side of Garrett’s face. “Don’t you ever wonder sometimes what would have happened if those two had met the first time?”

Dean sighed dreamily. “Talk about a dream team.”

Garrett smiled. “More like dangerous.”

You turned your head, patting Dean’s cheek, mere inches from your face. If possible, his smile grew even more. “Don’t worry, I’d never want to fight Beau on taking his spot.”

With a faraway look, Dean voiced, “That’d be kinda hot. Two of my friends fighting for my affection.”

You chuckled. “I can’t believe these guys are letting you leave the house. You’re a literal menace to society.”

Dean gasped. “How dare you? I’m a delightful member of society.”

“She’s right.” Tucker spoke up. Nodding along with Logan. “Absolutely unhinged.”

“Illustrious,” Dean corrected.

Garrett added, “Infamous.”

“Don’t listen to them.” Dean leaned his chin on your shoulder. “We both know you secretly love me.”

“I’m still waiting for the day when you finally elope with me.” You sighed dramatically. “But, alas, I couldn’t stand to look at you. You’re just too pretty for me.” You sighed, imitating a fainting woman, with the back of your hand shielding your forehead.

Garrett rolled his eyes, chuckling. “There’s no elopement happening.”

Dean drew in a breath. “So, we are star-crossed lovers. I can’t believe you’re keeping us apart already.” Seeing Garrett’s glance in the rear-view mirror, he sat back with a small smirk.

“I doubt it would have mattered anyway. Since I met the two of you in the same week.”

Garrett chuckled into his closed hand. “I still can’t believe you didn’t even know the guy before you decided to heckle him.”

It felt so surreal that you still remembered your first encounter with him during orientation week. Even after all this time. It was still clear as day, being in that crowd of freshmen, with Garrett standing a few rows behind you.

“Hey, positive heckling. I could tell he was nervous.”

“What did you call out during his comedy act again? That he looked handsome?”

You sighed in mock defeat, even if the memory always lit you up from the inside and your very rare impulse for heckling. Or to inspire someone you’ve never met. “‘You’re fucking awesome, man!’ I still can’t believe I did that.”

“I just loved that you did. Just had a feeling that I really needed to get to know this girl.” His hand dropped on your thigh in comfort.

Him putting it into perspective like that was a reassuring sensation that if you hadn’t done that, you wouldn’t have met Garrett and found a friend for life. Or who knew? Maybe you’d have met him over time through Dean.

“Did you really needed to spill your drink on me to catch my attention though?”

“Wait, that’s what happened? Someone left an impression, huh?” By instinct, Logan reached forward to clasp Garrett’s seat.

“I was – Just shut up, man.” His laughter sounded flustered when he was reminded of the little mishap upon meeting.

“He was very adorable,” you assured him and the boys when you stroked his shoulder.

Garrett mockingly hummed along. “Oh, would you look at that? Guess we’re here already.”

The car slowed down until you stopped near the steps of the library building. His brows rose. “No more mortifying stories to tell in front of my friends.”

You loosened the seat belt. “There are always more where they came from. Don’t worry, boys.”

“Can’t wait,” Tucker replied, all easy-going.

Garrett sighed, glaring at his so-called friends sitting in the backseat. He was too focused on them and working on maintaining his remaining dignity when Dean jumped out to open your door before he can.

Dean bowed. “My lady.”

Logan snickered at seeing Garrett narrow his eyes while mouthing “What the fuck?” and throwing his hands in the air.

Taking his offered hand, you stepped outside while looking back over your shoulder at Garrett. “You do have gentleman friends, Garrett.”

He feigned a smirk. “Clearly.”

“And before I forget…” You leaned against the lowered car window, letting an old-timey voice break forth. “Oh Garrett, how I can’t stand to be apart from you.”

Garrett chuckled. Rolling his eyes, he called after you as you walked away. “Don’t play with my feelings like that.”

Still, he tried to ignore it when he heard Logan mutter under his breath, “Not my girlfriend, my ass.”

You heard a heavy thunk against reverberating metal. To stop anything even worse from happening you rounded the corner to watch Damon crawl over to Elena who was crumpled on the floor.

“What’s going on here?” You said, walking around the corner.

At last you could put a face to the male voice confronting Damon. Judging by the facial similarities to Jo, you suspected this to be the new bane of Damon’s existence called Kai. You furrowed your brows at seeing him wear a gray Mystic Falls shirt.

He turned his body until his eyes zeroed in on you. With a tilt of his head, he asked, “Oh, what do we have here?”

Glowering at the deflection, you twisted your fingers at your side.

Ignoring the bloody mayhem he left behind, Kai pointed behind him as he sauntered closer. “Oh, them? Don’t mind them. We’re just having a bit of fun.” He smirked.

“What I’m curious about is your-” His voice deepened until it fell silent. Kai stopped in his tracks. “Woah-” His fingers reached for his nose until droplets of blood touched his fingertips.

Shivers went down your spine at the intense stare shooting in your direction.

His voice turned raspy. “Would you look at that?” With a smirk, he lifted his arm. “Motus.”

A grunt left your lips at feeling yourself being dragged forward by the feet. You swung your arms around until a golden energy wave ruptured through the air. With the back of his head, he elevated against the ceiling before he fell down.

Kai’s groan turned into delighted chuckles. Your fingers tensed at having to go another round. Gray eyes lazily met your figure with a humming sound.

“Stay down.” Your arm rose to send another aneurysm his way, letting a golden shimmer linger around your hand in warning.

If it was possible his eyes glinted even more with mischief. Kai shook his head. “But this is so much more fun.”

An arrow shot through his shoulder, making him fall to his knees before Alaric ran over to inject him with something.

“I couldn’t agree more.”

Those were the last words he heard before his mind drifted off.

You absolutely hated how you were the go-to girl for everything. Including fulfilling the duties of a babysitter.

“Trust me, this guy is harmless like this.” Damon laid his hands on your arms. “By now, he’s probably as dangerous as a baby. A siphoner baby, but still. So, no touchy.” Wagging a finger in reprimand, he pouted his lips at the sacrifice you were offering for not touching a siphoning serial killer.

You were still not convinced when you rolled your eyes. “Oh no, what will I do with myself? Sounds like a fun time: watch the catatonic witch? Check.”

“Try not to kill him? I know it’s hard.”

You smiled serenely at the thought. “Don’t tempt me.”

“Besides, the last time you two crazy kids met, he was already half obsessed with you.”

With a dry voice, you retorted, “Thanks. That does make me feel better.”

“It won’t take long. If it bothers you that much, just-” Damon wiggled his fingers to imitate your powers. “hit him with your sleepy powers.”

You laughed mockingly before you instantly sobered. “If you take one second longer, I’m going to make him obsessed with you instead. And I won’t even have to touch him.”

Realizing you meant business, he suppressed an unsettled shiver. “Jesus, fine. I won’t take long.”

You threw your head back, exhaling heavily. You eyed Tyler’s knocked-out body lying on the ground next to Kai’s bedside. “Well, that worked out perfectly.”

With a sigh, you dialed Damon’s number, muttering under your breath, “What a shit show.”

“I’m already on my way back. Loosen those empath fingers already. Don’t tell me you already tried to kill him.”

“Not exactly. But Tyler tried … something.”

Silence lingered on the other end. “What happened?”

“Tried to put him off his Pentobarbital. The Gemini dad’s in town. Tyler wanted to grab him as a plan B, in case he’d say no to the blonde twins. I thought I’d let you deal with this unconscious problem. The less murderous version at least.”

Even after reiterating everything that happened, it still felt strange that this was your life now.

Damon exhaled a tired groan. “What is it with Romeo thinking he can just take the psycho freak magic siphon and just waltz out of there? Wait. Huh…”

You closed your eyes, rubbing your forehead. “Oh no, I don’t like when you get ideas.”

“Y/N, pull a Romeo. Wake him up. Keep him alive until I get there.”

Still not convinced, warily eyeing the IV drip and the sleeping siphoner. “You know, there’s still time to not do this.”

“This is the only way. I know what I’m doing.”

You sarcastically grumbled under your breath, “Boy, do you ever.”

Hanging up the phone, you succumbed to your fate when you leaned over to unplug the sedative. “I’m going to regret this.”

You intensely stared at Kai’s sleeping form from the chair you were sitting on. Feeling impatience swelling inside you, your fingers lifted in the air, clenching them into a twisting motion. Your features grimaced in concentration until only warmth lingered. Satisfaction bloomed when Kai’s chest hummed with golden energy.

Eyelids twitching, Kai groaned with a gasp, touching his chest.

“About time, sleeping beauty.”

Kai groggily opened his eyes before he searched for the source of the voice. “Is this real?”

You bit your lip, flicking your finger at him until the headache hit him full force.

The groan leaving Kai’s lips was deliciously gratifying to your ears. “God!” It was short-lived though when he chuckled, sending you a slow, speculative gaze. “You really are an empath.” He stroked his chest where the golden energy had hit. His eyes lit up with a vigorous curiosity. “Which kind?”

Kai shook his head when you remained silent instead. “Keep your secrets. I’ll find out soon enough.”

“Not if you’re dead.”

He pouted. “Ouch, so hostile already. And we don’t even know each other.” With a smirk stretching on his lips, he nestled himself deeper into the pillow and bestowed you with a smoldering gaze.

“I’m Kai. What’s your name, sunshine?” At the prolonged silence his gaze darkened when he narrowed his eyes. “You know, I could just make you tell me.” He twisted his fingers, pointing towards you.

Eyeing his hand, you stood up from your seat. You crossed your arms. “Nope, no more Traveler magic for you.”

Kai’s eyes caught Tyler lying on the floor next to him. “You shouldn’t have. Should I feel touched that you were the one watching over me?”

“It’s usually Damon or Alaric staring daggers at you.”

“I hope not. I mean, Damon’s such an incessant talker. How can you stand the guy?”

Ever the dramatic one, Damon barged in. “I was just about to ask the same question.” He turned towards you, arching an eyebrow. “How can you stand the guy?”

Kai groaned. “Great.” He smirked mirthlessly. “I was just enjoying myself but then I heard this droning voice in my ear.”

Damon widened his eyes. “News flash: it’s not me, it’s you.”

“Oh my God, there’s two.” You placed your fingers against your temple, feeling a headache coming on.

“What do you want? I’ve got places to see, a sister to merge.”

“That’s going to have to wait for a bit.”

Kai sat up in bed. Mockingly, he laughed once. “You really think I’m gonna trust you?”

“No. And we’re not gonna trust you. I just happen to need a magic siphon and you’re the only game in town.”

With a spring in his step, he jumped over Tyler until Kai was inches from Damon. “Hi. Let’s discuss my fee.”

You felt Damon’s sidelong glance on the side of your face. “Don’t look at me like that. I wouldn’t do this if it wasn’t life and death. Literally.”

You shook your head. “Everything’s life and death in this town.” With a sigh, you continued, “I’m going to hold down the fort until Tyler wakes up. At least, until he can venture on being Liv’s knight in shining armor.”

“You’re a good egg, Y/N.” Damon patted the side of your head.

You grimaced, not knowing what to make of the amicable touch. “Whatever.”

Feeling Kai’s inquisitive gaze upon you, you watched him in return. He was basically vibrating with delight, like he was close to jumping in the air.

“You still haven’t asked me what I want in return.” Kai tilted his head.

“We don’t have time for negotiations.” Damon grumbled next to you. “You are in no position to-”

“As I keep hearing … time is a luxury you don’t have. I’m offering you my services—the kind of which is quite rare if I recall correctly—you think I’m providing those out of the goodness of my heart?” He chuckled darkly, tapping lightly against his chest where his heart laid. Supposedly.

“We both know people like us aren’t capable of that,” he added.

Damon clenched his jaw, stepping towards him with a threatening air. “Little weasel-”

Kai tapped his ear. “Uh uh uh, less insults, more groveling.”

“What do you want?” He hissed.

Kai stroked his jaw in thought. “I’m feeling quite peckish.”

Sensing the siphoning hunger inside Kai thrum with energy, you inwardly sighed at his antics.

“What?”

“He wants a taste,” you elaborated.

Kai smirked. “That’s not how I would’ve phrased it, but if you’re offering.” He wiggled his eyebrows indecently. “I’ll be honest, I’ve been curious. Never had an empath before. And I’m not hungry for Vampire. Sorry, not sorry.”

Damon groaned, at last understanding Kai’s insane tangents. “Gotta be kidding me.”

“Time’s a wastin’. Looks like you got a choice to make.”

“A siphon leech who just lost all his Traveler magic—sounds like someone with a ton of self control to stop,” Damon interjected.

Kai’s eyes settled on you. “Don’t worry, I would know when to stop and trust me, I know all about self control.”

With a disgusted face, he rolled his eyes. “Ugh, someone kill me.” Damon started to face you, turning serious. “You know, I wouldn’t ask this of you if this wasn’t serious.”

You gave him a blank stare. “Oh, I’m sure I’ll find a way for you to make it up to me.” You narrowed your eyes, imagining the siphoning. “Or not.” Turning back towards Kai, you gingerly offered your arm.

Kai shook his arms like he was psyching himself up. “Oh my, is that what nervous feels like? I must be pretty hungry, huh?” He let his hand linger in the air for a second before brusquely keeping your wrist in a tight grip.

A gasp left your lips. Not feeling used to the intimate touch after years of people avoiding it in fear of activating your empathy and have you read their innermost secrets. Instantly, the tingling sensation of your essence leaving your body remained.

He hissed through gritted teeth, watching in fascination at the glowing surface area on your skin. “Oh, that’s the stuff. Would you look at that? Who knew I needed empath power all my life?”

His face lit up even more at the struggle you were facing. “I bet you’re thinking-” His face leaned towards you until it was inches from yours, not moving his hypnotizing gaze away from yours. You could feel his warm breath on your cheeks. Kai pouted. “If only he had some Traveler power left.” His grip tightened and if possible he siphoned even harder.

You clenched your hands into fists, grunting at the aching sensation.

His voice twisted into something spiteful. “Maybe you guys shouldn’t have drained me like you did.” Kai observed your reaction with intent eyes, silently reading your expression.

“Easy on the control, Parker,” you could hear Damon say faintly behind you.

With a thunderous glare, you grunted, “Let go, Kai.”

“Come on, make me,” he said, baiting you to rise to the challenge.

Not wasting another second, you placed your hand around his throat. Not enough to choke him in return, merely as a threat that you weren’t afraid to use force if necessary.

Kai, the pervert, closed his eyes and threw his head back to further reveal his neck. “Oh, that’s nice. Give me more of that.”

You pressed harder with more glowing energy.

“Okay, that’s enough with the foreplay. Cut it out!” Damon kept the two of you apart, lightly shoving Kai away. He gazed into your eyes, holding onto your shoulders. “Are we good?”

You intensely stared at Kai, not daring to avoid his eye. “No, we’re not. Not even close.” There must be something wrong with your magic. It swirled in your blood, humming with your heartbeat, like it needed more. To be close again, to feel more of that siphoning spark.

Kai stretched his arms over his head with new vigor. “Did it feel as good for you as it did for me?” With arching eyebrows, he mockingly frowned. “No? Just me? Oh well…”

Damon exhaled heavily, clapping his hands. “Chop chop. Do I look like I want to be bored by your endless yapping?”

Kai started to follow. His gray eyes were glinting. He never seemed to have heard of keeping his distance when he moved around you, walking backwards.

“Until our next encounter, Y/N.” Kai smirked. “Told you I’d find out,” he exhaled with a tranquil air, throwing his head back. “Uh, I feel so refreshed.”

Damon pushed him towards the door for good measure, trying to hurry him up.

There was still no haste in his step. “Thanks for that, my sweet little witch.”

“I’m going to tell you the following: do you really want to test me before my first cup of coffee?”

“Wait, this is serious-”

Without bothering to glance down, you hung up. Closing your eyes, you sighed in relief when the light at the bottom of the coffee machine blinked once.

~Damon POV~

He let out a grunt at hearing the sound of you ending the phone call. Just another thing that wouldn’t go according to plan. Damon clenched his fist.

“So, what did she say?”

He turned around and narrowed his eyes at the personified plague that was starting to ruin his day. With a sarcastic tone he replied, “I don’t know. Did that sound like a successful conversation to you?”

Kai sauntered closer. “Counter question: You want to get that message to Bonnie, right? So, I’m game if you are. But you have to make a bit of an effort here.” He waved his hands at Damon’s idleness, pouting dramatically. “I mean, come on. It’s like you don’t even want dear Bon back.”

Damon frowned. “If you need Y/N so badly for this ritual why don’t you call her?” To illustrate the tempting offer, he waved his phone.

“Out of the two of us who would she rather talk to?”

Skepticism lingered on his features. “I’m not buying it. Do you want to siphon her or something?”

“Maybe I just really want to prove to her how sorry I am for what transpired.”

Damon paused. “You mean when you depleted her like a juice box just for the kicks of it?”

Widening his eyes, Kai pointed at him. “Exactly! I mean, I kinda feel bad about it. Speaking of, I could use the extra juice. Empath energy must be really rejuvenating.”

He groaned at his witch friend being described like that. “Yes, you’re so repentant, gross. Correct me if I’m wrong. There are less than a handful of witches in town or close by who could do this spell.” Tilting his head, he continued his train of thought. “And they all want to kill you or at the very least would love an invitation to your funeral. There comes a time when you have to realize … maybe you are the problem.”

Kai clutched his chest, sucking in a breath. “You know, if I didn’t know any better I’d say you were trying to hurt my feelings. Oh, and, would you look at that…”

Damon rolled his eyes when he pointed at himself as he was forced to hear him drone on and on.

“Mega powerful Gemini coven leader.”

Damon faked a smile when Kai pointed at him in return. “Boring little vampire. Do as I say. Call Y/N again. Try to think of Bonnie if that helps.”

“Antichrist,” he grumbled before shaking his head. Reluctantly, he redialed. “Hey, it’s me again.”

You sighed heavily into your phone, not knowing what to make of Damon’s stubbornness. “Wow, you must be really desperate.”

He snorted. “You have no idea.”

“Careful, Damon. Are you sure you want to reveal all your cards already?”

His voice took on a pleading quality. “Listen, we need you. I wouldn’t call if this wasn’t important-”

You furrowed your brows at the slip. “Who’s we?”

“Uh, figure of speech?”

You didn’t trust the heavy silence before that answer. “Damon.”

“A chatty little siphoner?” Your gaze wandered into the distance, remaining silent. “You didn’t hang up yet.”

With your lips pursing, you replied slowly and monotonously, “I’m trying to decide if I would be able to give someone an aneurysm over the phone.”

“It’s Bonnie,” Damon offered, knowing that was answer enough. “Maybe you can pop the blood vessels of the devil incarnate when you get here?”

With his arms crossed, Damon waited patiently—more or less—for your verdict. His fingers tapped on the coffee table between you as he absentmindedly drank from his tumbler.

Your brows were furrowed in thought while you were perusing the spell from the grimoire. It took a few more seconds before you lifted your head again to face the two men in question. “Which one of you said I needed to be here for this? Because I don’t.”

Kai—the ever so innocent—chose to study the ceiling, with his hands behind his back. Instead of offering an immediate explanation, he pretended to exude a surprised face when he turned to you, to find you already examining his features. “I’ll have you know this is a very sophisticated spell.”

You barely managed to let out the scoff before it could leave your mouth. “One you don’t need a second witch for since … what were your words? You’re mega powerful?”

The corners of his mouth twitched. “Stop it, I’m not used to you regaling me with compliments. What can I say? I could use the extra empath juice.”

Breathing deeply at being labeled an empath juice box, you turned your body until you faced him head-on. Imagining all the things you could do to him without seriously killing him. Damn him for becoming coven leader. Who could blame you though if your fingertips were already tingling with something akin to lightning, needing some sort of release?

Judging by the pleased expression on Kai’s face, he could feel it too. Maybe even relished in it.

Feeling the energy shift to something more volatile, Damon spoke up, “Remember, please don’t kill him. I know the urge is strong.”

You rubbed your finger together once the energy of the celestial event hit you. These were less than ideal conditions for this to work, you realized with a sigh. Glancing back at the siphoner, you almost stepped back once you noticed he was already looking at you, eyeing those micro-expressions and physical behavior of yours.

Sensing the air of the crescent moon, you turned back to Damon. “I’m going to raid your whiskey collection for this.”

Your shoulders tensed when you heard footsteps following behind you. You thought it was strange that Damon barely sighed at your declaration, but you were proven wrong. It felt even more bizarre being silently watched by Kai while you indulged in some intoxication to put you in the right headspace.

At last you chose to face the music by turning around while arching your eyebrows with an expectant gaze.

It surprised you how his expression seemed almost stunned. It took him a few seconds before he could voice what was on his mind. “These people have no idea how your powers work.”

You crossed your arms, there must be something seriously wrong in the universe if Kai Parker wanted to fight in your corner. “And you do?”

He scoffed in derision. Despite a successful merge it was slightly reassuring to know that some things wouldn’t ever change a power hungry witch. “More than your so-called friends. You think-” He pointed to the living room where Damon was still waiting for you to get ready, “they can keep you safe when it comes down to it?”

“Why do you care?”

Kai swallowed before his familiar smirk made an appearance, but this one seemed more strained than usual. “…What?”

“The last time we met you couldn’t wait to drain me.”

He blinked. With an awkward chuckle, he sputtered, “I’d never drain you.”

“And now I’m supposed to believe you’re this innocent guy who never did anything wrong—slate wiped clean? Guess we’re cool, hm?” Your body sidestepped the corner of the kitchen island until you stood in front of Kai. The magic in your blood was singing to draw even closer to the siphoner. First the siphoning and now this? There was something seriously off about your magic. It was a bit unsettling that it craved these masochistic tendencies. “I mean, what do you want from me?”

Okay, the intimate proximity was a bad idea. Kai’s energy was thrumming, daring you to come closer. “I just … I never met someone like you.”

“This isn’t one of those moments where you claim that we’re so similar. All you see is the power. My existence is all about balance while you only thrive in chaos.”

Kai’s face relaxed in recognition, like he was almost pleased that you could read him like that. His voice turned soft. “So, you do know me.”

“Do you even know how many elemental empaths are out there? Just connect to earth and you’re ready to go. Celestials? As far as I know we might as well all be dead. So, if you want to kill me, you’d better have a damn good reason.”

Kai frowned. “Why would I want to kill you?”

“You tried several times,” you uttered through a clenched jaw.

“If I wanted you dead, you’d be dead,” he hissed lowly. His gaze sobered quickly, blinking slowly once he read the expression on your face. “Wait, that’s not what I meant.”

You exhaled. “Let’s get this over with.” The satisfaction filling you up felt like vindication in nature when you shoved your drink against his chest before you walked back to where the ritual was supposed to take place.

Damon leaned with his hip against the couch, arching a dismissive brow. “You lovebirds dealt with your issues?”

You opened your mouth to interject when Kai spoke up. “No issues.”

Your narrowed eyes didn’t seem to bother him when he lifted his hand with the palm pointed downwards. “I don’t know about you, but I’m a big advocate for holding hands.”

You merely rolled your eyes at his shenanigans.

Bob exhaled wearily. He hated letting Yelena down, but he figured after all they endured together, Bob was owed some leeway. Besides, on the one hand, he didn’t want to mess things up with Entropy, if it didn’t work out in the long run. And on the other hand, if he didn’t ask you out, then you wouldn’t have the option to laugh in his face while wholeheartedly uttering ‘no’.

“Sorry to disappoint that we won’t offer any entertainment for you.”

“Don’t despair, mon frère.” With an unperturbed air, she tapped his shoulder. “I’m still your wingwoman.” With a spring in her step, Yelena jumped up from her seat.

Bob coughed. Now he was getting nervous. A Yelena who had her mind set on something was a truly dangerous combination. “Yel-Yelena, w-what are you doing?”

She smirked. Innocence enveloped her like a halo when she cocked her hip and smacked her lips. “Nothing.”

Yelena’s hidden strategy played like a loop in Bob’s mind the whole morning. He was reading a book on the couch while idly eating a wrap. So sunken in his own head, he barely detected his surroundings until he heard a slurping sound diagonally across from him.

With a wince, Bob turned his head. “Oh hi, how long have you been sitting there?”

There you were sitting in the armchair, slowly eating yogurt with granola and fruit. Even while eating, your gaze hadn’t turned away, as if you had been unabashedly staring at him this whole time, just waiting for him to notice.

You smiled. “A while. How mesmerizing is that book?”

Bob chuckled. “It’s good.” He closed it again, placing it on the cushion to give you his attention instead. “You could’ve said something. I could’ve made you that French Toast you like.”

“And take away my amusement for the day?”

Bob leaned back and looked at you with a fascinated gaze. He muttered under his breath, “Amusement, huh?”

“Sue me.” You shrugged. “I just like looking at you when your attention is really zeroed in.”

It was moments like these when you just knew how to get under his skin. Or his cheeks flush. Not with embarrassment, but with a nervous sentiment that left his stomach in knots around you. Bob looked at you before turning his gaze to his lap with a chuckle, not knowing what else to say. “Okay.”

He looked up again when you were quiet for several seconds. “And now you’re just looking at me?”

“Isn’t it fun?”

“Very.”

“You should try it sometime, Bob.”

“Stare at you?” He cleared his throat. Not knowing if it’d sound creepy if he admitted he loved watching you on a daily occurrence. Knowing that you would stare at him in return prompted his eyes to wander anywhere else, feeling flustered at the mere idea already.

Absentmindedly, his thumbs stroked the wrap in his hand before he lifted it to his mouth, but then he hesitated. “You’re not going to keep staring at me while I’m eating, right?”

Frowning, you spoke dryly. “That’d be weird, Bob. Just watching you eat.” You shook your head. “I still have to focus on finishing my own breakfast, you know?”

“Right.” Bob chuckled before finally succumbing to his appetite.

Almost like a phantasm reminding him of his previous contemplation, Yelena accompanied Ava while speaking in hushed voices.

Their exchange kept going until Ava spoke monotonously. “Oh no, whatever am I gonna do?” Her arms pointed downwards in a tense way.

Bob tilted his head, narrowing his eyes in concentration.

With greeted teeth, Yelena mumbled, “I thought you used to be a SHIELD operative?”

“Everything okay?” You inquired.

Revealing a wide smile, Ava called out, “Yeah, I’m fine.” Her next words were grumbled, almost reluctant. “Uh, because I don’t care about this? And maybe I’m not that into manipulating my friend.”

If Ava flashing a smile was an unexpected and unsettling thought already, their hushed voices reaching his sensitive ears, clear as day, was the proverbial nail in the coffin that something was afoot. The question was if Yelena’s game plan was more of a mischievous or sinister nature.

“It’s not manipulation when you know it’s a good thing we’re doing.” Yelena tried to convince her.

“I’ve had a crazy thought.” It was a good thing that you pulled Bob back before his mind could get lost in shadowing their spy friends and their secret plan.

He cleared his throat and stared back at you with renewed curiosity and a soft smile on his lips. “Hit me with that crazy thought.”

“So, it’s been a long time since I’ve actually been outside.”

He nodded. “About a few weeks.”

Wait, was it weird that he knew this?

Bob tilted his head, listening in on that change in the air. A buzzing sensation lingered. After glancing out of the corner of his eye, his suspicions were indeed confirmed. Yelena was leaning against the kitchen island while staring intensely at Bob and you. With her partner in crime seemingly gone.

“Right. I don’t know. I was just wondering if you’d be up for some Pizza.”

Bob stared intently at a spot over your shoulder. Uncertainty rose in you when the golden shimmer of Sentry flickered in its initial stages. You tried to ignore the strange presence, getting the sensation that focusing on Bob’s godly side slowly taking over was more important.

Still, you kept on, hoping he would revert back over time. “Could be fun. To just hit up the pizza place for a change without just going for our usual takeout.”

“Sounds fun.” He spoke mechanically.

The tingling phenomenon overtaking your body was starting to get to you. Turning your upper body, you looked over your shoulder. You frowned darkly. There was nothing visible to the light and yet you could see the hum in the atmosphere.

“What are you doing?” You uttered slowly.

The golden shimmer was fully shining through in his eyes. The cadence in his voice changed when Sentry whispered deeply from his throat. “Ava.”

At the mention of her name, she turned visible again. Ava cleared her throat while she kept him in her peripheral sight. “Uh, you good, Sentry?”

Yelena’s back stood ramrod straight, not daring to inch away from her position. “Sentry?” she echoed cautiously.

Your body language didn’t change. You knew Bob had himself and the sun god under control. However, your eyes still wouldn’t stray from his.

Sentry’s intense stare remained steadfast on yours. With each breath his chest was moving slowly. Despite the intensity he broadly displayed, his arm was stretched out on the backrest of the couch.

The longer he just stared, heat was building up in your body in response. With each lingering second that Sentry wouldn’t talk, your pulse rose. You narrowed your eyes at his antics.

“I’m good.”

While Bob was constantly moving and had his nervous mannerisms, it was slightly unsettling that in his Sentry form he was a tad more rigid. His facial tics were somewhat a small comfort. To know that underneath he was still your Bob.

Ava’s exhaling breaths were the first sign of the deflating tension in the room. “That’s-that’s grand.” Her gaze wandered to you when his stare wouldn’t ease up and he just remained silent. You could tell that Sentry not uttering a single word was starting to get to her. “I just wanted to talk to this one.” She tapped your shoulder, trying to make him feel more at ease. Or at least enough so she could feel more at ease herself.

“Don’t stop on my account then.” He casually waved a hand, without moving his arm away.

“Alright.” Ava sat down on the armrest of the couch, with her hip barely on the edge and trying to ignore the golden-eyed guy just watching them. “So, I have a request to make. I heard you guys are stopping by the pizza joint?”

Before you could say anything in return, Sentry sardonically widened his eyes before interjecting, “Who spilled the beans?”

Ava turned her head to see Sentry’s head nestle against the back of the couch while displaying a wide and unbothered smile. His facial muscles twitched with the effort. His grin was saying one thing while his eyes shifting into something blank were telling a different story. “I’m kidding, Ava. Bygones.” He shrugged, like he had already forgiven her for eavesdropping on you in the first place. Despite his claim it was still challenging to get a read on his body language when he was in his divine state.

Trying to get back on track, you probed, “What did you want to ask?”

Ava turned back to you. “I was wondering if you could make another pit stop. Maybe get some snacks for me?” With that said, she placed a piece of paper into the inside of your palm.

Unfolding the note, your face lit up at the unexpected items she chose. “Oh, I can’t remember since-”

“I didn’t have those since I was a kid,” she admitted with a whisper.

There was no other choice to make when you nodded without further incentive. It made sense to you why Ava would feel vulnerable with that tidbit of information about her. “Say no more.” With a small smile, you folded it back to its original state.

Your gaze wandered over to Sentry. “You want to add something to the list?” you said, waving the folded paper in the air.

“Uh, I don’t-I don’t know really.” He shrugged, blinking. At once the blue in his eyes was back, with a small smile tugging at his lips.

“Guess we’re going all spur of the moment,” you added.

“Sounds cool,” Bob replied.

Deciding that writing into the group chat was the quickest way to go, you tried to find out everyone’s dinner plans.

Entropy: Does anyone else want to join Bob and me for some pizza slices?

Walker: 👀 Uh, I was actually up for some K-BBQ.

Entropy: Look at you…

Entropy: Oh man, I’m missing some Korean tonight?

Walker: I mean, I think that’s tonight? It’s tonight, right, guys?

Yelena: Oh yeah, totally.

Bucky: I don’t care as long as there’s food.

Walker: 👀

Entropy: What?

Ava: Don’t mind the walking flag.

Alexei: I’m with Mr. Winter Soldier!

Entropy: Well, save us some.

Ava: 😋 Don’t worry, we’ll pick something good for you.

Walker: What do I gotta do to make you this nice to me?

Ava: I don’t know. Gain the ability to shapeshift into Y/N?

Walker: 😏 Very cute.

Entropy: And I’ll find out what you’re trying to hide from me 🧐

Yelena: Don’t know what you’re talking about 😇

Entropy: Bob, do you know something?

Walker: You actually think Bob knows something?

Bob: Uh, I don’t know anything. I swear, I’m innocent in this.

Entropy: 🤔 Hmmm… See you later then guys.

“So, you want to disclose the big mystery?”

You didn’t bother wasting any time the moment you sat down at the table of the quaint pizza joint. Figuring that once Bob was absorbed in his first bite, he would let his guard down, so you could get some answers.

He was in the middle of chewing when he stared at you with wide eyes. He swallowed. “I don’t-I swear I’m not a part of whatever they got planned.”

You narrowed your eyes at the absolute vagueness of his words. “So, you do know something, Bob.”

He leaned back with an exhaling breath before he avoided your stare. “You-you know, s-super hearing is actually not something I can turn off. And I can’t really command them not to do something once they have their minds set.”

You hummed, still not feeling any wiser than you were before.

“I don’t wanna lie to you, Y/N,” Bob whispered, timidly studying you from under his eyelashes.

And just like that Bob and his soft eyes were getting to you, pleading with you not to resent him for wanting to be honest with you while remaining the epitome of loyalty to his friends. You sighed, feeling yourself swoon at the mere puppy dog eyes he displayed.

“Just tell me one thing.” Seeing Bob nod slowly, you continued, “Don’t tell me I’m part of the next PR event.”

He released the breath he was holding when a relieved smile lit up his face. “I swear. Or at least I don’t know anything about that.” Bob scrutinized the expression on your face. “You must be pretty traumatized from the last time, huh?”

A hesitant smile lingered. “Why?”

“You know, with the schmoozing at the last fundraiser?” When your facial reaction remained the same, he added, “The suit and tie event. You were wearing this golden dress with the slit at the side and-” Bob cleared his throat when he caught your stare, like you could picture the exact dress he described.

With blushing cheeks, he shrugged. “Anyway, I only remembered like a few congressmen standing around you, trying to strike up a conversation when-”

At the mere memory, your body felt so light. Like you could just float if you’d let yourself.

“I split time.” You spoke fondly as you rested your cheek against your palm, leaning forward. You could still remember the overwhelming sensation of the moment in question. It had left a bitter taste in your mouth. Knowing how much you needed just a moment to breathe. The pulsating sound of your power still rang through your mind, like a monochromatic shockwave breaking through the sound barrier and pulling you outside of time. Leaving the faces and bodies of the bystanders all blurry. Like smudged paintings with no distinct characteristics to tell and the ink smeared downwards.

“You were the first and the only person who could see what I was doing. And then you were just standing right next to me while everyone remained frozen in time. And what did you-what was it you said again?” Your eyes studied his face, like it was carrying the answer you were seeking.

“Don’t you just hate it-” Bob started.

Alongside him, you completed his words. “-when people parade you around like a circus animal?”

Bob remained in awe, like it was yesterday. “I’ve never seen anything like it. It was just really cool to witness.”

“You’re such a charmer.”

With blushing cheeks, he chuckled. It was the only sound you could focus on around you.

This day was working against her.

Yelena was just minding her own business and already Walker decided to eat up her favorite cereal and someone in the tower—she was not pointing fingers, but her father did have a guilty expression on his face when she asked—forgot to include it on the shopping list way in advance. So this one thing managed to put her in a sour mood, the worst omen which could have happened to indicate this was just the beginning for her day.

She could hear urgent steps getting closer. One glance upwards, Yelena felt her mood begin to lift again when she recognized him.

“Bob, you’re a sight for sore eyes.” Yelena exhaled, not realizing his stormy gaze when he gripped his phone tightly in his hand with each advancing step.

That was before Bob finally got close to her and only held the device right in front of her face as the only morning greeting. “Tell me you didn’t send it in.”

Yelena blinked at the unexpected confrontation, mumbling quietly, “Do I need coffee for this?”

She studied the New York Post article he had on his phone. The headline Blossoming romance in the Tower—Is Sentropy the new It couple? was striking enough and only enhanced by the bold letters. Her eyes widened instantly, added with the evidence of Bob and Entropy’s post-pizza date.

Yelena carefully observed the printed pictures of the two of you carrying paper bags, looking all domestic. Both appeared truly relaxed, with you leaning against Bob’s shoulder and Bob caught in the middle of laughter. Yelena had to commend the photographer for choosing the perfect moment to snap the best picture. Even she would have thought those two were dating.

“Damn, you guys look cute.” She spoke under her breath. Yelena bit her lip when her eyes nervously met his. She quickly skimmed the article and couldn’t help reading the part out which caught her eye, “an anonymous source close to the couple confirmed that they’ve been savoring their dates in the Tower and those two were taking it slow and enjoying each other’s company”.

Her eyes widened once the magnitude hit her and why Bob was so unsettled by this. Their lives might be staged for all the public to see, but this was something different.

Judging by the content of the article, there was still the foundation of truth layered underneath. If one ignored the part of the two of you going out on actual dates. Yelena wouldn’t hear the end of it by Bob if this truly, and finally, happened. But still, this story could have been about anyone on this team. Not to mention, it wasn’t such a surprise that Bob and you were spending time together.

Suspicion instantly grew in her at reading about these fictionalized events coming from an anonymous source.

“It’s flattering that you thought of me, but I wouldn’t wash our laundry in public just so you could make your move. A bit overkill, even for me.” Feeling concerned, she mentioned the one thing which was on his mind. “Did she see it yet?”

Bob shook his head and scrutinized how his fingers fiddled with his phone. “I don’t know.” With a guilty expression, he answered, “I-I’m sorry.”

She waved a hand. “It’s okay.”

He sighed, smiling abashedly. “I’m hoping I can break the news to her gently.”

“Good luck with that.”

Your head looked up when you heard the faint knocks at the door. With an exhaling breath, you rested against the headboard of the bed. At the flick of your fingers, the curtains opened with the telekinetic force, dispelling the darkness in the room with the morning light. “Come in.”

Bob’s awkward smile greeted you when he opened the door. “Morning. I wanted to-”

His eyes caught your phone lying next to you on the duvet while you were sitting cross-legged under the covers. Once he identified the unmistakable font of the newspaper article, he released the heaviest sigh you ever heard. His entire body just came undone. “You already saw it.”

You put a smile on your face while your hand covered the lower half of your face, even if you didn’t see the humor of the situation yet. “Very entertaining read for the morning. Fascinating how the media knew something about our lives before I even did. Guess they’re the experts, so they can’t be wrong. Truly informative.”

With a dejected sigh, Bob sat down on the duvet. “I-I’m sorry.”

“What’s one more story? Good news, you look cute though.” You waved your phone cheekily, even if you didn’t inherently feel that emotion. You figured that faking it until you made it was a safe strategy. Who knew that you could feel tired despite just waking up?

Bob snorted, but still kept eyeing you. Like he was waiting for the other shoe to drop. “Now that’s a relief.” He gradually shifted closer until he was close enough for you to feel his radiating warmth.

Accepting his silent invitation, you snuggled into his side. If anything, you were getting the sensation that you could finally breathe again when you let go of the tension.

“If you want, I could let loose. Make people forget they ever saw us on the front page or read that so-called article.” His deep voice was bordering on raspy, hinting at the other part of Bob.

You turned your head until it was leaning against his sturdy shoulder. Getting the confirmation when you saw his eyes flicker with a gilded promise. “On a global scale?”

As tempting as the offer was, the mere mental reach of his should make you uneasy … and how he didn’t waste any time, knowing this was troubling you. Somehow it didn’t. Not in this instance.

“As fun as that would be, better not. Rain check maybe on the mind wipe?”

Sentry made a humming sound that made your nerve endings tingle with the intimacy of feeling his skin on yours. “Bummer. Next time then.”

Hearing the familiar fizz in the air — it felt like touching a tube television — you shifted your head from his shoulder to see Ava phasing through the wall.

“Sorry to barge in like this. I’m visible this time around.” She lifted her arms in surrender. It didn’t take her long to make the golden-eyed discovery. “Damn it. Just my luck, right?” Resigned to her fate, Ava placed her hands on her hips, twisting her lips into a sardonic smirk at herself.

“Something we can help you with?”

You rolled your eyes at Sentry’s idea of fun. Standing up, you waved a hand in his direction. “Don’t mind him. He’s just fucking with you.”

He offered a small smirk at Ava. “She said I couldn’t do a mind wipe.”

With a mocking glare, you interrupted. “Shouldn’t. Don’t put words in my mouth and then try to prove me wrong.” You spoke with a lower pitch to imitate the being in question. “You said I couldn’t do it.’”

Sentry’s eyes were twinkling with molten delight. His focus was on you when he sent a smirk your way. “Misunderstanding then.”

You narrowed your eyes before turning back to Ava. “What’s up?”

Her gaze was switching between Sentry and you. However, she shook her head to get back to the reason of her visit. “I came to apologize.”

Coming from Ava, this was the most unfamiliar concept. Remaining quiet, your eyebrows rose.

“I know. I will deny it if the others find out though.”

“Keep going.”

“I’m sorry. If it wasn’t for me, you guys would’ve been here already and the press wouldn’t have been after you.”

Being confronted by Ava’s guilty conscience, you sighed. “I’m not mad. It wouldn’t have mattered anyway. They would have found something else to plaster on their news report in the long run. Even if Yelena and you tried to meddle before.”

Sentry crossed his arms, huffing to himself.

“What do you-?” All the fight left Ava’s defensive body. “Is it a consolation to know that I was against it? I only planned for you two to spend time together, go all domestic and shit while you were out shopping for snacks.”

Your lips curled. With a dry voice, you added, “There’s a hidden romantic in you.”

The briefings with Valentina were turning into some sort of aggravating ritual. Who’d have thought that something like the sound of her heels could unlock auditory memories?

She didn’t bother with a proper greeting when she soundlessly clapped her hands at Bob and you. It felt slightly more threatening when her fingertips pointed in your direction with the motion, yet her eyes lit up like a shark. “My congrats to the happy couple.”

Not having the strength to deal with this today, you wearily leaned back in your chair. “How would they get such an idea?”

“Well, a picture is worth a thousand words.” She tilted her head conspiratorially.

Rolling her eyes, Yelena groaned. “Cut the crap.”

“We know it was you, Valentina,” Bucky added with the tired voice of someone who felt like his age.

A scandalized hand hovered over Valentina’s chest when she mouthed with innocent eyes. “Moi?” She cocked her hip. “What have I ever done to you that you would think the worst of me?”

Ava pretended to retch, not willing to play this game.

“You were the source, weren’t you?” Bucky stayed persistent.

Valentina’s eyes lit up, with a smirk implying her mischief. “I feel so touched that you thought of me. Maybe I did, maybe I didn’t.” She shrugged. “It did say ‘anonymous’, right?” She eyed her watch, seemingly bored by this conversation already. “I hear there’s a sensational news show covering this tonight, so there must be something true behind it.”

Walker frowned, wrinkling his nose at the description. “Are you talking about the Bugle show?”

“I knew you had some taste in regards to your education.”

Staring blankly ahead at the mention of the Daily Bugle educating people, he leaned towards Ava sitting next to him without uncrossing his arms. “I do feel sick now,” he muttered under his breath.

Ava’s stare remained unwavering towards their boss when she replied wryly, “Suck it up.”

“Trusted press sources told me this had been fed. This is just circumstantial. Says something when the Bulletin won’t even touch this.” Bucky shook his head at Valentina. “This screams you.”

She tilted her head, smiling condescendingly. “Those were some big boy words. So proud.”

With a groan, Yelena threw her head back in frustration. “Just stop. What is really the endgame here?”

“I’m so glad you asked.”

“Oh my God.” You absolutely hated that you had to be present for this monologue.

“Welcome to the first phase of Earth’s protection.”

Alexei’s body language perked up. “Did you prepare presentation?”

“No, now shush,” she hissed. “Let me paint you a picture.”

The severity in Valentina’s eyes unnerved you, exposing how utterly serious she took this when she spread her palms. “Just imagine, Sentry on this team? The best promo for city-wide or even global deterrence. Now to have a god and a mutant on a cosmic level as a power couple? That’s some scary shit. We’re talking intergalactic ramifications. Not to mention if those two ever broke up?”

Valentina pressed her palms together in a prayer. “I can see the sales figures already.” She shuddered with delight.

The marketing strategy should have shocked you, and yet it didn’t, coming from someone like her. “You’re painting a make-believe scenario. We’re not a brand you can just use like chess figures.”

She pointed her finger as a threat. “You’re not a brand yet. Sentropy does have a nice ring to it.” She twirled her finger in the air. “This world needs heroes.”

“Which we already are.” Yelena interrupted.

“By being a united front.” This time, her glare focused on Bucky. “I heard there was a falling out with your best bud. What? You couldn’t kiss and make up yet?”

Bucky rumbled low in his throat. “Don’t mention Sam. These are people you’re dealing with.”

She sighed. “You guys still think you’re the ones in control, huh?” She chuckled at the absurdity. “Don’t you realize how easy your lives would be if you stopped fighting me and just … do as I say?”

“What’s the next phase? Turning this team into a reality show?”

Without moving his chin from his sternum towards the blonde assassin, Walker mumbled, “Don’t put ideas in her head.”

Valentina stared into the distance. “We’ll put it on the list.”

“Damn it, Yelena,” Walker groaned.

Bucky grumbled, echoing the team’s reluctance to be used like this.

There was only one being missing who had been silent until now. It was Sentry who arrived with glowing eyes when he rose up from his seat. “What makes you think we’ll be a part of this? That we’re just letting you do this?”

“I told you once, Robert. You don’t scare me.” Valentina replied jadedly.

You didn’t bother to stand up. You merely emulated Sentry’s attitude when your eyeballs shimmered with golden heat when you spoke monotonously. “Here’s what is going to happen. We’ll release a press statement to the public. Tonight. Something along the lines of ‘Both people value their privacy. If any news changes regarding their relationship, the citizens of New York are the first to find out.'”

“It’s adorable how you keep throwing the word people around. You stopped being people a long time ago. You two are entities.”

“We belong to ourselves,” Sentry added.

A sharp laugh echoed from Valentina. “Oh, do you now?”

You remained resolute. “Press release, Miss de Fontaine. Before Jameson can even think about putting his two cents in with his so-called journalistic integrity.”

“This conversation isn’t over. You’ll change your mind soon enough, Miss Lehnsherr.” Valentina waved a finger between the both of you at the power display. “You two are so cute.”

Bending his head towards you, Sentry lamented with a detached voice. “Should’ve done the mind wipe when I had the chance.”

“Do you think it’s unfortunate,” Bob muttered quietly, “that you go out for the first time in weeks and you’re already being hounded by the tabloids and a fake story?”

Your head was leaning against his shoulder while the two of you were sitting in your usual spot in the hangar. “I remember this other guy in the picture too.”

Bob chuckled. “O-oh yeah? What’s he like? M-maybe you could introduce us?”

“You’d like him. Hates the crowds too. Keeps to himself.”

He smiled. “R-really? S-sounds like a great guy.”

“Oh, he has no idea.”

“Besides, they don’t know what to write about me. I mean, it’s different as the Sentry when they regale me with the greatest stories. But when I’m just me, I barely even get recognized on the street since I’m only the unassuming guy on the team.”

It was your turn to get into a contemplative mood. “These people don’t know who you are, not really. The only thing we can do is to take the good with the bad.” Almost on instinct, your hand wound around his until your fingers interlaced with his, seeking his comfort and warmth.

Bob exhaled shakily, stroking the back of your hand with his thumb.

“I mean, it’s not that hard to believe that the two of us could be in a secret relationship.”

Turning his gaze away, Bob tried to hide his blushing cheeks with a chuckle. “Uh, m-maybe?”

You tilted her your head in a challenge. “Are you saying I’m wrong?”

“I’m not saying that. We’re just … one of those people who-” Bob twisted his body, same with his answer. Seemingly at a loss for words on how to define your relationship.

“Who feel very secure in our friendship.”

“R-right, we’re the best in being friends.” He blinked. “I mean, nothing against Yelena.”

Matching his encouragement, you smiled lightheartedly. “But Yelena’s different.”

“She is. The best I could ask for. Like a big sis or the best pal.” Bob waved his other hand in the air in agreement. “But you’re different too. You’re, uh, a-” He cleared his throat, chuckling awkwardly. “Great pal too?”

“Oh wow, I’m just a great pal? Best bud until the end, right?”

He shook his head. “You know what I mean.” And to make matters worse, he chose to bestow you with his puppy-eyed look.

“No, I actually don’t. I’m not gonna make this easy for you this time around, Bob.” You spoke softly, nudging his shoulder.

“I don’t want to mess this up.” He muttered quietly, like he was sharing a secret.

“You won’t,” you whispered in return. “I won’t let you.”

“I’ve l-liked you for a while. I still do.”

“I like you too, Bob.”

He took deep breaths, gathering courage to keep going. “More than like you.”

“Right back at you, bud. Keep going.”

Bob grasped both of your hands.

“There’s something I gotta ask you. Has been on my mind for some time now. I just didn’t know how.” He huffed. “Especially now. With the whole world watching.”

“Ask me then.”

“I didn’t want things to go like this. This is so not how I imagined this. I wanted to take things slow.”

“How much slower could you have gone?” You giggled, but sobered, worrying about stopping his flow. “Sorry.”

The corners of his mouth hinted at a small smile. “Take my time. Without the pressure of everyone watching at least. Everyone in the Tower excluded.”

You nodded blankly at the thought. “Yelena would throw a party.”

“She’s more similar to her father than she wants to admit.” Bob shook his head. “Anyway, here’s the thing.” He stared deep into your eyes, gaining strength for the following words. “W-would you do me the honor o-of going on a date with me? In-in the Tower, I mean?”

“Took you long enough, you dork.”

Getting into a bantering mood, Bob’s eyes widened. “Hey, this is hard for me. I was actually r-really nervous. Still am.”

“I know.” You smiled softly.

Absentmindedly, he rubbed your hands. “You haven’t answered yet.”

“What do you think my answer is? I was this close to making the first step myself. Yes, of course. I’ll go out with you.”

The motion of Bob shaking his head pulled Yelena out of the depths of her mind. With his arms crossed and a watchful eye, he whispered, “No. They couldn’t examine her in her binary form. Not while her mutation is trying to protect her from any procedures. They suspect she might have some neurological … issues judging by the mission report.” His body tensed, convulsing with restless energy. “Maybe I should’ve-”

“It’s not your fault,” Yelena interjected before he could fully articulate that thought.

“We were so close to getting it right. I just think that if-”

“No what if. This was on all of us.” Stroking his shoulder, Yelena sighed. She remembered the times when Y/N would create cosmic dimensions for Bob’s god side to let loose. And consequently how close the two of you were to officially draw out the Sentry for missions without activating the Void. “We were the reason she was taken in the first place.”

The moment Yelena joined the others in the common room, the weariness on Walker’s face could’ve mirrored her own.

“How’s Bob?” Walker’s eyes softened. He couldn’t quell the sympathy in his voice.

“Feeling guilty … and sad.”

“Oh, sad Bob makes the lights dim.” Her father remarked before his eyes met hers. “Reminds me of you. Not the light-dimming part.”

She smiled with a wince. “Yeah, I got it the first time,” she said, sighing.

“How’s the better half?” Bucky copied Yelena’s sitting position on the steps.

She stared at him meaningfully. “Don’t let him hear you say that.”

Walker glanced back at them from the couch. “Doesn’t he like hear everything?” As soon as he voiced his assumption, he shrugged. “I think he’d agree though.”

Yelena inhaled deeply to gain strength before shaking her head. “No change yet.”

Alexei turned somber for a change. “Tragic. Little star is always very strong, very protective. Like mutant Red Guardian. She deserves better than this.”

Ava, who had been silent until now, shook her head mechanically. “Is no one going to talk about what we saw when we entered that facility?” The tense silence didn’t seem to bother her. “There were children.”

“We saved them, Ava,” Yelena whispered.

With a faraway glance, Ava grew quiet.

The familiar sound of heels coming closer felt like a bucket of ice-cold water dousing the team.

“Wonderful, you’re all here.” Valentina’s lighthearted voice caught everyone’s attention when she entered. Her eyes shone with delight before something akin to disappointment emerged, letting the hand which held a mission brief drop at her side. “Where’s our sun god?”

“Where do you think?” Yelena asked with a dry tone, blinking slowly.

Their boss pursed her lips deep in thought before her eyes lit up again. “Oh right, omega mutant. Forgot for a second. Good work on that.”

“Good work?” Ava hissed through gritted teeth.

After mockingly glancing at the ceiling, Valentina mused, “Huh, didn’t know I acquired an echo when I bought this place. That’s weird.”

“If that file of yours doesn’t include the Essex Corporation, then we don’t want to hear it,” Ava stated with deep contempt.

Valentina shook her head, smirking. “So, this is what I get for granting you the opportunity to save your teammate?”

“Oh yes, very generous of you,” Walker called out.

“We saved a whole building of mutant children—and teenagers might I add?” Yelena reminded her. “This must be the best PR stunt you could hope for. I’d say we deserve a break.”

“I had to pull some serious strings based on mere allegations. The Essex Corporation is known for doing research to better the lives of all the people on this planet.”

Bucky barely lifted his head. “Did you seriously memorize their PR statement?” He asked with a monotonous voice.

Ava joined in. “Research would indicate that people benefit from a procedure made possible by people who had the option to say no if they wanted to. Let’s call it what it is. Torture, mutant experimentation.”

Alexei’s usually jovial demeanor had turned somber at the memory of the mission. “None of them had shoes. No socks. Very cold building.”

Waving her arms at the ambush at play, Valentina seemed dumbfounded by this turn of events. “Why do you care so much about them? Do I need to remind you that they were still mutants? Remember, mutants.”

Ava stalked forward. “Children. Mutant children.” Before she could do any damage though, Walker held her back by the shoulders.

Valentina’s eyes narrowed. Tilting her head in an arrogant manner, she mouthed to herself, “Wow.”

The next words spoken were at a normal volume again. “I can see that all of you are a bit too close to this. How about we take a deep breath and choose our next words carefully? You know, between employer and employee?” She waved to herself, cocking her hip.

“Or we can just call Bob?” Yelena shrugged her shoulders, waving a hand. “See what he thinks?” She snapped her fingers as if she just had an unexpected thought. “How about we draw out the sun god? I bet that guy can be really reasonable.” She scrunched her nose while offering a cheeky smile.

Valentina glared, closing the mission brief with a sharp sound. “We want to behave like children? Fine. Take a self care weekend. And stop with the glum faces when you step outside, Jesus!”

“Hi, I heard my name?” Bob’s voice was a welcome distraction when he entered the room and slowly walked down the steps.

Valentina inhaled deeply. “Have a nice weekend, Robert.” She muttered through gritted teeth.

“Thanks?” He replied with a confused voice.

You didn’t expect your mind to feel so groggy when you woke up. You frowned when you twisted your head to study your surroundings. You nervously inspected the unfamiliar room you were in and gazed outside the window to feel in awe of the New York skyline. Feeling the tingling sensation from your mutant form, you tried to phase the binary physique down and clenched your eyes shut. A sigh of relief left you when your skin was no longer buzzing with energy. You yanked your wrists to reach for your face, and expecting resistance, surprise still filled you when your hands bumped against the metal railing of the hospital bed you were in.

Like a shock to the system, you felt stunned at the pain. “Ouch, what the hell?” With your vision getting blurry, you swore you saw restraints around your wrists. But when you blinked again everything was normal again. A groan left your lips, feeling the golden glow cover your pupils and the whites of your eyeballs, radiating heat. As much as you pressed the heel of your hands against your closed eyelids, nothing seemed to work.

Through the walls you could hear nervous voices, accompanied by beeping machines going on the fritz. Looking through the glass of the observation room, you noticed doctors and scientists walk by with rushed steps while sending you concerned expressions.

“Entropy? Miss Lehnsherr?” The voice of the doctor speaking through the intercom made you shift your head towards the glass panel. He continued, “Please calm down. We can help you. How about you unlock the door for us again?”

“I’m not-” you started, looking at your twisting fingers. “I’m-” What you hadn’t realized was that you had been doing it, like an internal protective reflex. You looked up again, opening your mouth to speak. In the blink of an eye, a man with brown tousled hair stood next to him in a blurry motion. Almost like he had always been a fixture if you hadn’t seen it happen in real time.

A stunned gasp left the doctor’s lips, taken aback by the sudden appearance. “Oh Jesus-”

The new guy had a twitching smile on his face when he nervously waved through the window at you. It seemed like a reflex before he could stop the hand movement. He gestured towards the door knob.

You frowned. The doctor got out of the way while you unlocked the door with a quiver of your fingers.

He stepped inside. “I came as soon as I felt it.” After seeing the expression on your face, he elaborated, “The energy in the walls felt kinda off.”

You smiled awkwardly at the familiarity in which he spoke with you. “Was there a disturbance in the force?”

He chuckled. “Something like that.” Sitting down next to you on the bedside, he inquired softly, “How are you feeling?”

Despite how familiar he acted in your company, you still felt hesitant and didn’t know how to act around him. “Weird.” You nervously licked your lips. “Okay, here’s the thing, I don’t know how to ask this…”

“Okay.”

You cleared your throat before you took a chance.“Where am I?”

His face froze and blinked. Rubbing the back of his neck, he chuckled nervously. “Uh, wh–what do you mean?”

There was a part of you that didn’t want to hurt his feelings. Judging by how elated he was to see you awake, the two of you seemed to know each other. You just didn’t want to take that away from him. “I don’t remember … what happened.” You spoke slowly.

With that confession you heard the utensils in the room clatter while reality shifted to make the tools twist upside down in a weightless manner, with cosmic energy enveloping them.

“Hey, it’s okay.” By the touch of his hand, you slowly transformed reality back to normal. “You’re safe here, I-I promise you.” He swallowed. “You okay? What’s … the last thing you remember?”

“Westchester?”

His eyes widened before he tilted his head. “Oh wow, that’s a long time.” He opened his mouth when another thought hit him. “Oh, I–I’m Bob.” He waved a hand to his chest, smiling slightly.

With blinking eyes, your breath turned normal again. The heat in your eyes receded and you mirrored his disarming smile. “Hi, Bob.”

Bob’s smile grew wider. “Hi, Y/N.”

“And this is…?”

“Oh, right.” He looked through the window which overlooked the city. “We’re in the Watchtower. We’re part of the New Avengers.”

Your mouth twisted in confusion at the sound of the team name. “Did you just say ‘New’?”

“I mean, we used to call ourselves the Thunderbolts before but then we got upgraded, I guess.”

“That name does sound familiar though.”

Bob’s face lit up. “Really?”

Your chest grew warm at the pure delight on his face. “For some reason, I remember this loud voice screaming it? But in a very joyful way? It’s very weird.”

“It’s coming back to you, don’t worry.”

A timid glance lingered on you. “If you think so. Sorry for freaking out like that.”

He chuckled with an airy quality. “It’s-it’s fine. You know, usually it’s the other way around. It’s you–you tend to be the one to calm me down.”

You tilted your head. There was something about Bob’s physiology that did feel one-of-a-kind. To be more specific, you detected a golden serum flowing through his veins. “I’m guessing there’s more to you than meets the eye, huh?”

He blinked slowly, brushing his hair away. “Oh, uh, I’m-I don’t know about that.” His inhaling breath lingered in his chest before he exhaled heavily again while speaking slowly. “I’m guessing I could say the same about you.”

You smiled unabashedly. “You’re a smooth talker, aren’t you, Bob?”

His cheeks reddened. There was a tremor in his voice when he chuckled. “Not really. Uh, okay. Listen.” Bob’s voice turned earnest. “Maybe you just need to get reacquainted in your room. See something familiar to jump-start your memory again.”

You nodded with a small smile. “Okay, Bob.”

Bob’s eyes wandered around the table at his friends, trying to find the right moment when to talk about this turn of events. It was certainly an anomaly that everyone was all quietly eating their lunch. After chaotic dinners and verbal banters taking place, Bob was certainly feeling nostalgic for their usual antics.

Alexei’s booming voice filling the Watchtower. Ava and Walker exchanging said banter. And Bucky and Yelena sighing out loud.

He leaned forward with twitching hands and saw Yelena turn her head at his tics. Trying to gather courage, Bob cleared his throat before taking a gulp of water to dampen his parched throat.

Expectant faces waited for him to voice what was on his mind. “Oh, uh, here’s the thing, Entropy lost parts of her memory. The last thing she remembers is,” he coughed, trying to get everything out in the open and as quickly as possible, “the Xavier School.”

A stunned Yelena blinked slowly. “Woah, talk about a heavy lunch.”

“Ignorance is bliss,” Ava replied.

Alexei’s shoulders dropped. “Poor thing.”

“Now Entropy has one more thing in common with you, Bucky.”

Bucky faked a smile at Walker. “That’s funny. I bet she loves the memory loss and experimentation part.”

Walker limply spread his arms. “Judging by what we saw when we entered the facility, is it such a surprise that Entropy’s mind disassociated from the events by concealing those traumatic memories?”

Ava slowly turned her head and frowned at the use of medical terms. “Since when did you get a PhD, Walker?”

“I did pick up some stuff in the Army, you know?”

Simultaneously, Ava and Yelena let out a deep groan. “Here we go.”

“I’m just saying, trauma hits people differently. Kid just needs to feel safe again.”

From deep within his chest, Alexei let out a holler and lifted his arms like a thought just hit him. “I have great idea!”

More startled by the vibration in the lamps than the sudden passionate sound, Yelena muttered under her breath, “Oh Jesus.”

“Let’s celebrate little star’s return. You know, big party. Have cheer that she’s still alive.”

Yelena pressed her lips together, feeling still uncertain.

“I-I don’t-I don’t know if Y/N is going to like the big party part. I mean, no matter what Entropy version exists, she hates making a fuss.”

Nodding in agreement, Bucky conceded, “She is still getting used to this new reality.”

Alexei’s jovial demeanor adjusted a bit before his voice attuned to a lower pitch. “Then medium party.”

Crossing his arms in thought, Walker tilted his head. Due to everyone still feeling hesitant between doing something nice for Entropy and not wanting to push her, he spoke up. “It is what we would normally do if she hadn’t lost part of her memory.”

Yelena turned her head until she was facing Bob. “How did she react when she saw you?”

“Anxious, but somehow the same. I-I think I was familiar to her at times.”

“Of course she recognized the golden boy.” Walker lifted his hands in surrender when several heads turned. “I’m kidding, guys. Let’s be real, it’s not that of a surprise that she took to you, Bob. So, how we do we do this? Just send Bob in to not overwhelm the little cosmos?”

Bob nodded. “I could do that. See if she’s up for it.”

The night sky felt truly magical, with semi-silence filling the atmosphere. There was something comforting about sitting in the hangar in the middle of the night. When a small breeze rustled through your hair, you wrapped the cardigan tighter around your body.

“Found your secret hiding spot.”

Bob was leaning against the doorway and rubbing his elbow through his sweater. “For a second I thought you wouldn’t come out of your room at all. Don’t want the others to think I’m rubbing off on you.”

“It can’t be that secret if you already found me. And I doubt that’s even possible if I barely know anything about you.” At the ensuing silence you cleared your throat. You had enough of an inkling that you didn’t want to hurt Bob. “I’m sorry. I tend to make jokes when I’m feeling awkward. Which you probably know.”

“It’s okay,” he said softly before he sat down next to you. “Must be pretty scary.”

“Kinda. At first.” You shrugged. “I think I’m getting there.” Exhaling through your mouth, you stared up at the sky. “It’s so quiet up here.”

“I know.” He smiled softly and brushed a hand through his hair. “It’s one of the things we both loved. Everything’s calm up here and nothing else exists.”

Silence had lingered for a few more seconds before you spoke up again. “I read the mission report.” There was a part of you that didn’t want to disrupt the comfortable air.

Bob’s shoulders deflated. His eyes turned mournful when he looked at you. “How are you feeling?”

With a rueful smile, you softly repeated the sentiment from before. “I’m getting there.”

“Did anything jump out?”

“The interior images of the facility seemed familiar. It was strange though.” You tried to put into words what you were experiencing, as if the former version of you was an isolated character instead of two halves of an incomplete person. “The labs still felt creepy in a way. Like I’m supposed to remember something which is ingrained in my bones.”

You eyed the side of his face with cautious eyes. “Can I ask you something?”

He rubbed his hands on his thighs. “S-sure, I-I mean, of course.”

“How did I get here?”

Bob chuckled. He gazed into the night sky before nervously eyeing you again. “Uh, y-you didn’t read your file?”

“I would if most of it wasn’t redacted.” Bob joined in on your laughter. “I barely know anything than the names of the others from this team. So, tell me, why would the government need a mutant on this Avengers team?”

Bob opened his mouth, appearing conflicted with this shift in conversation.

“Come on.” You playfully bumped against his shoulder to make him less tense around you. “I’ve got to start somewhere if that’s what you’re worried about.”

He offered a small smirk in return. “I could be an unreliable narrator.”

“Well, I trust you, Bob.”

He instantly shook his head at your confession. “I don’t know about that. I just-I’m a work in progress when it comes to a healthy body and mind, but don’t you think it’d be better if your mind remembered on its own?”

“Then give me the cliff notes version instead.”

It took Bob several seconds before he finally relented with a sigh. “It was about six months ago when you were brought in. As a fail-safe … for me.”

“Fail-safe? Because of the golden-” You gestured vaguely his body before continuing, “substance inside your body?”

The corners of his mouth were twitching into a soft smile. His body language felt even lighter in a way when he murmured, “You know, as the daughter of the master of magnetism, you really know how to keep surprising me.”

Even if you tended not to spread the word that you were related to one of most notorious mutants out there, it still filled you with pride at being considered an equal to the Lehnsherr name at least. You smiled. “Really rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it? And you need to stop distracting me.” You repeated the playful nudge against his shoulder, getting the sensation that this had been something you used to do. Like touching him was second nature to you. “Keep going.”

His blue eyes roamed over your face before he chuckled lightheartedly. “Long story short, even if you were assigned as a babysitter in a way, you tried to help me as best as you could. We sparred together, a lot of mental training to calm the anxiety. We were close to a breakthrough before … your mission.”

You took in all that new information which completed the picture you already had of this soft-spoken Bob. “Thank you for telling me.”

He nodded. “Anytime. You could talk to the rest of the team if you want. Maybe that could help.”

You figured it was only a matter of time until you would have to face them. Even if that suggestion made you anxious, you were still excited by the idea.

“Speaking of, the others want to throw you a party. It was Alexei’s idea. The others were mildly inconvenienced by it but I think they really wanted to spend time again.”

“We used to do that, didn’t we?”

His smile made his eyes light up. “You’ve been missed at several movie marathons. Just dinner and a movie probably.”

“I don’t need to dress up, do I?”

Bob chuckled, shaking his head. “No, just bring yourself. And some patience. Just so you know, we tend to stick among ourselves and the others forget what it’s like to have, uh, some manners?”

“I grew up with the Wolverine. I think I’m fine.”

Despite your affirming words, Bob still tried to make sure. “So, you’ll come?” From his cross-legged position he started to face towards you.

Chuckling, you felt affected by his open expression. “Yes, I’ll come, Bob.”

Huffing nervously, he replied, “That’s cool. I can pick you up?” he asked, more as a suggestion.

“Sure.”

“Cool,” he breathed and gingerly got into a standing position to walk back inside. “I forgot to mention just now,” Once you turned back around to look back at him, he continued, “We were friends. Before everything went sideways.” Bob rubbed the back of his neck. “Really good friends.”

You spoke softly. “We still are, Bob. I definitely feel like I know you. I do believe that you can’t really forget a feeling.”

“Little star! We threw you party!” Bob and you were confronted by Alexei’s exuberant voice when the two of you entered the common room.

For a few seconds you stopped in your tracks by the unexpected greeting. The decorations were hard to miss. A few paper streamers laid on the kitchen counter and a banner with the handwritten words ‘welcome home’ were hanging in the air, with balloons tied up at the ends.

“Yes, I can see that.”

“Believe it or not, but this is my dad being reined in,” Yelena whispered conspiratorially, but with a distinct volume for the others to hear.

You smiled. There was something familiar about them. It was like bopping your head to a song you didn’t know the lyrics of.

“It’s fine, really.”

Soon enough awkwardness set in, giving off the feeling that the others were waiting for something to happen and you were inch by inch failing their test.

Alexei’s eyes softened. He stepped forward with open arms. “Oh, come here, malen’kiy.” He spoke with a murmur. Oddly, his visible warmth felt truly comforting. “Little lion cub doesn’t know how to ask for hug from family.”

“Oh.” At first you felt uncertain by the hug before your body relaxed and you softly patted his broad shoulders. You spoke your thoughts out loud while muttering, “This is actually really nice.” When you alluded to the tight hug he was giving you, it still made you feel appreciative to have your sentiments confirmed that Alexei would give the best hugs.

Yelena grunted. “Ugh, fine,” she said as the only warning before you felt her front snuggle up to your back with a sigh. “Guys, just do it. Surrender to the group hug.”

The only verbal affirmation Bucky gave was a grumbling noise.

“Fine. You’re lucky I like you, kid,” Walker conceded when stepping forward.

“Jesus. He means we like you,” Ava murmured under her breath.

“Don’t turn a group hug into a competition,” he retorted.

It was a small relief that Bob didn’t grumble much at the idea of a group hug when he joined you from behind. In return you patted something that felt like his shoulder before you settled on his neck. He was surprisingly taller than you expected, you realized from the unexpected and cozy warmth. You could feel Bob exhaling at the top of your head.

“Oh, don’t I feel special?” You lingered a few seconds before you had pity with them. “Okay, and now I release you from this hell.”

Ava exhaled, while she and the others slowly let go. “Oh, thank God.”

“That was good group exercise.” Alexei was positively beaming.

“Hey, not to pat ourselves on the back, but I think we’re getting better at those,” Walker replied with pride in his voice.

Looking at him, you spoke up. “So, you’re like Captain America, huh?”

With a crooked smile on his face, his shoulders sagged with relief. “Thanks, kid,” he spoke softly. “U.S. Agent,” he introduced himself. At seeing the glances of the others, he added, “I mean, Walker. John Walker.”

“I went on social media, hoping it would spark something,” you elaborated.

“Would you look at that? Kid recognized me.”

Ava rolled her eyes. “She recognized your Captain America-ness!”

In return, his mouth twisted into a mocking grimace. “Nope, the only thing I heard you say was ‘Captain America’s ass’. Guess it’s the accent.”

She shook her head before speaking to you in a quieter tone. “Kudos, you recognized him without his taco shield.”

Trying to get back to the initial reason for the get-together, Yelena interjected, “Let’s just have dinner before it gets cold.”

With everyone taking their seats at the dinner table, Bob found his place at your side. You felt him glance barely at you before he placed a carton of sweet and sour chicken in front of you.

“Oh, thanks. That’s,” you said. After seeing the soft expression on his face, you left it unspoken that this was your favorite Chinese food and instead changed your mind to utter something else, “really sweet of you.”

You furrowed your brow at seeing Walker send Ava a significant look over his meal before your eyes caught his chosen dinner. “Didn’t think you’d eat what normal people eat.”

He opened his mouth to retort before he heard the others bursting with laughter. It didn’t take him long to chuckle with them, accepting that it was meant in jest. “Gotta hand it to you, kid. You really know how to swoop in for the kill, huh?”

“Don’t be fooled, that’s the healthiest meal he could’ve picked,” Bucky threw in.

“I do know what to put in my body instead of these animals.” Walker waved at the others at the table.

With her mouth half-full, Ava couldn’t resist. “Walker’s taking baby steps. We have to remind him that even though he’s a super soldier, he’s still a human being and can’t just torture his body with protein powder and veggies.” Her gaze caught his. “Eating Korean BBQ every once in a while isn’t a bad thing, you know?”

He tilted his head, teasing her right back. “You know, that’s the nicest thing you ever said to me.”

Ava rolled her eyes. “And that quota’s already filled.”

“Little star, how’s your brain?”

Feeling curious pairs of eyes settle on you, you cleared your throat before you found yourself staring at Bob at you side whose eyes had softened. “Bob has probably told you about the memory thing. I read the mission report. I scoured through the many PR events on social media.”

Other than several eye rolls or sighs, Alexei seemed to be the only one who didn’t mind the renown from the side effect of fame, with the way his chest swelled with pride. “Hoping it would jog my memory, you know?”

“Did something come back?” Bucky inquired.

“Once. But I thought at the time it was just a hallucination. Then I saw the images in the mission report. I was strapped down on a gurney.”

Yelena nodded, clenching her jaw. “It’s how we found you.”

“To be honest, I get more sensations like I’ve been somewhere before. Or feelings of familiarity.”

Ava chewed on something crunchy. “Like Bob?” There was a certain undertone in her voice that made you nervous.

“I mean, it’s not that surprising-” Bob started.

At the same time, you spoke up. “Bob does seem familiar-”

You chuckled with Bob, although coming from him it sounded more awkward. In the end, he cleared his throat before he observed the others quietly from under his eyelashes.

“That’s cool. You feeling comfortable?” Yelena appeared amused before she continued at seeing you nod. “Feeling safe with him?”

Now you felt uneasy by these sorts of questions turning into an interrogation. “Sure.” You spoke slowly. The energy among the team felt a bit strange, but somehow not in a bad way, more like in a mischievous manner.

Yelena’s eyes were sparkling with something unsaid. “Good.”

“Speaking of Bob, he did make me think of something. I was wondering if you could help me with the memory thing by talking about me? I know it sounds really weird, but would it be alright if you told me how it was like when we first met?”

“I don’t think it’s weird.” Yelena looked to the others for support.

“Agreed,” Ava added.

Alexei stretched out his arms and echoed with his loud voice. “I would love to talk about little star.”

Leaning forward, Walker patted his thighs. “Sure. Let’s have a trip down memory lane.”

“I’m in.” Bucky lifted his bottle of beer in the air as a cheers and turned to his teammates. “Who starts?”

“Not me. You guys met her first.” Ava pointed at Walker and Bucky. “Though you might want to whitewash the events, Walker.” She smirked.

He mockingly smirked at Ava. Walker turned his body until he was facing you and opened his mouth-

“Well, you were pretty scary,” Bucky began.

Walker huffed at the interruption before he a grimace darkened his face. “She wasn’t that terrifying.”

“Were we in the same room, John?” He studied you intensely. “So, here’s what happened…”

“Did they send you?” You inquired.

“If you mean the government, then yes,” Walker answered. He studied the bodies scattered around while lights flickered haphazardly in the lab. “You made kind of a mess, didn’t you?”

Bucky spoke up. “Listen here, we’re here to take you in. So, why don’t you just come with us before more people get hurt?”

Tilting your head, you observed his arm. “Is that vibranium?”

Slowly, his breathing turned heavy when the metal started to move without his control. “Walker, use the collar.”

Walker hesitated. “Bucky?”

“Walker, collar, now!”

The last warning you gave was when you muttered ominously, “I’m not switching one facility for another.”

“We could really use some backup right now! Ghost, get in here.”

Ava heard Walker’s choked voice through the comm channel. Uttering a small sigh, she phased through the facility, merely to watch Walker get thrown against the wall with your psionic powers. Too stunned, she whispered, “Jesus, guys.”

Hearing him mutter with irritation to the ground, “We could really use a Bob right now.”

Ava’s upper body was shaking with laughter and was soon joined by Yelena mirthful chuckles.

“Aww, Walker, that’s actually really nice of you,” Bob replied with a satisfied smile.

“Sure, Bob.” His soft smile turned into a smirk when he looked at Bucky. “Thanks for that, bud.”

With no care in the world, Bucky shrugged. “There’s no shame in admitting she kicked your ass.”

Walker stared imploringly at you. “Don’t listen to him. You kicked all of our asses.”

“Is this Flatter Y/N day? Because a girl could really get used to this.”

“You should. Truth be told, due to Val’s oh-so transparent agenda at the time we didn’t know you were like an omega level threat. So, that was fun.” Sarcastically, Walker did a thumbs up with both his hands. “Anything else you want to know?”

You pursed your lips while you tried to think of something good. “Why is your shield bent into a taco? Special choice of weapon?”

A grunt left his lips. Without missing a beat, he mumbled into his food. “Why don’t you ask your boyfriend?”

“What?”

“What?” Walker’s eyes widened in shock.

Bob rubbed the back of his neck and coughed loudly. “So, uh, when are we watching that movie?”

After Yelena punched into Walker’s side, he held his ribs, mouthing, “I didn’t mean to.”

The warm intimacy was slowly getting to you. Bob’s vulnerable and accommodating nature was a breath of fresh air and the reason why it was getting to hard to breathe while he was sitting next to you and shared the blanket with you to cover both of your laps. Needing a moment to gather your wits and cool down your skin. The moment when you tried to quietly untangle from the warmth, you felt his wide-eyed stare linger on you.

“E-everything okay?”

“Yeah, just having a drink,” you whispered. “You want some?”

“I-I’m good.”

After moving towards the open kitchen, you poured yourself some water before downing it in one go.

“Well, that was painful,” you heard Yelena’s dry voice utter close by.

Stuttering, you felt the water droplets on your lips when you pressed them together. “What do you mean?” You saw Yelena leaning against the counter while she was tapping her fingers against the surface.

You briefly saw Ava phasing through the couch and counter until she was standing right next to you.

“No phasing during movie night,” Bucky muttered absentmindedly.

“Okay, dad,” she called out without moving her gaze away from you. Pulling back her mask to reveal her face, Ava prepared another bowl of popcorn. “So, what are we talking about?”

Heat blossomed in your cheeks at the ambush coming from both sides. “Nothing. There’s no talk happening.”

Without waiting for further explanations from you, Ava silently turned her head towards Yelena and crossed her arms, witnessing Yelena’s mouth tug into a mischievous smile before she went on.

“What happened on the couch? Very awkward.”

You sighed before you surrendered to the inevitable with a whisper. “I feel like I did that before. It just … it scared the shit out of me.”

“The cuddling under the blanket?” Yelena’s eyes studied your face with meticulous detail. “Yes, you guys do that all the time.”

“It’s truly nauseating.” After seeing your reactions, Ava corrected herself with a shudder. “Fine. I hate how adorable you two are.”

Almost like a knee-jerk reaction, you looked in Bob’s direction. You felt a shiver travel down your spine from his gaze before his head jerked back.

“I’m just … What if I don’t get those memories back? That is a possibility.”

Yelena’s shoulders dropped. “You can’t think like that.”

“Stop putting pressure on yourself. We wouldn’t mind those remember when conversations.”

“She’s right,” Yelena confirmed.

“I guess what I’m trying to say is I’m just letting it come to me when it does. Even if that means ‘starting fresh’.”

Yelena smiled devilishly. “Wow, Bob wants to cuddle on the couch and you want to get to know the guy all over again,” she said while making air quotes. “And start fresh.”

You felt so close to exhaling in aggravation. “Yelena.”

The blonde Widow raised her arms in defeat. “Fine, whatever.” She leaned forward on her arms. “So, you think he’s cute, huh?”

“Oh my God,” you hissed.

Bob made a choking noise that evolved into a coughing fit. “I-I’m good, guys,” he assured them when several heads turned in the sitting area.

Walker’s eyes were glued back to the screen when he exclaimed, “What kind of whisper conspiracy is going on over there? I can feel Bob getting nervous and it’s distracting from the movie.”

“Calm your tits, Walker!” Ava mirrored Walker’s volume before her voice turned into a whisper again. “You do realize dear Bob can essentially hear the heartbeat of a hummingbird in Central Park, if you know what I’m saying…” She arched an eyebrow before her hand reached for the popcorn to get back to movie night.

Your body felt frozen in place once you managed to process this insight.

Yelena’s lips were twitching. “You can’t blame me. I’ll initiate any sorts of drama in this tower. What can I say? I like Bob. We like Bob.”

There was only thought rushing through your brain with how the night had evolved.

Two words to be exact.

Just hearing him talk so unceremoniously about your lives like that simmered something inside you. Like the two of you didn’t matter in the grand scheme of things. Like Luther and you were barely a blip on their radar.

Your face contorted with anger. To infuriate him just a tad, with the way he infuriated you with his callous words, your body barely leaned forward.

“We’re not things you can just dispose of once we served our purpose.”

Ben tilted his head. There was something fascinating about rendering someone like him speechless for a moment. You weren’t foolish enough to think you were getting to him. Your fingertips twirled behind your back to get a grasp on Ben’s emotions, only to sense something akin to a daze tingling under the surface. Not trusting your own empathetic powers what you detected was real.

Barely turning his head, Ben spoke to Fei with a certain voice. “I can handle this one.”

Fei smirked to herself before murmuring, “I’m sure you do,” and leaving Ben on his own.

He laced his fingers behind his back while playfully dancing on the back of his feet. Ben pursed his lips. “Something I can help you with?”

“How about being the responsible one by having a real conversation instead of using people for your benefit by literally abducting them, huh?”

Ben nodded repetitively, like he couldn’t care less about anyone’s feelings. “Right.” He narrowed his eyes in thought. “What’s the name of the big guy again?”

You conjured a patient smile. “Luther. You know, your brother from another timeline?”

Ben crossed his arms, revealing a crooked smile. “As everyone keeps telling me. I wouldn’t call it an abduction,” he exhaled tiredly, shrugging slightly.

“Are we allowed to leave?”

Ben pursed his lips. “I think he’s starting to like it here. And, you know, you seem seconds away from falling for our charms. We do have things to offer that your precious Umbrellas can only dream of.”

Mocking laughter erupted from your chest before Ben joined in. “Right. Wow, someone’s really sold on themselves.”

“I mean, calling it an abduction? Sounds kinda judgmental, don’t you think?”

You clenched your jaw. Remembering Luther’s emotions brought you back to the park, like they were your own. “I felt his desperation ahead of me,” you replied, deciding to remind him.

At the mention, Ben pointed at you, remembering. “So, you’re the emotional one, huh? What’s your number again?”

“I’m not just a number, Hargreeves.” You placed your hands on your hips. “Not surprised that you would deem something like empathy barely a power. I’d like to see you handle an anxiety attack when I’m done with you.”

Ben waved his arms at his sides. His aura was literally shimmering with excitement as he smirked widely. “Oh, don’t threaten me with a good time.”

You rolled your eyes. It seemed like this version of Ben felt drawn to any sort of mischief, the more the better. “And I thought Klaus was the crazy one,” you muttered under your breath. With a normal voice, you inquired, “Where’s Luther?”

“Probably in the kitchen still miserably failing at charming the pants off Sloane.”

A sigh left you when you mutely walked away towards the direction of Fei’s departure. Truth be told, only to get away from Ben faster.

You had already walked away with brisk steps when Ben’s arrogant sing-song voice made you regret all your life choices. “Other way.”

You instantly turned, while grumbling under your breath, “Fucking smart-ass.” You didn’t need to spare him a glance to feel Ben’s arrogant joy coming off of him in waves when he leaned back against the wall, crossing his arms in delight.

“You know where to find me if you want to work on those powers of yours, … Number Eight.” Ben chuckled with mirth.

Self-loathing rippled through you just a tad for not letting your power detect Luther’s aura through the mansion to avoid this embarrassing situation altogether. And you blamed yourself for underestimating him. For thinking Ben wouldn’t have interrogated Luther about you.

“So, this is what you guys are doing in your free time, huh?”

Ben’s eyes remained closed when he performed his tai chi movements in the dojo, not letting himself appear to be ruffled by your presence.

“This tells me everything I need to know about your squadron of Umbrellas. How does it feel wasting your day away, not improving?”

You remained unfazed by his choice of insults. In the end, you were used to Reginald’s mental abuse. Your eyes followed his movements, content with watching his little ritual while leaning with your shoulder against the pillar.

“Depends. What’s it feel like when you’re not being a mascot for a Hargreeves empire?”

Ben scoffed in derision. “You think you can distract me?”

Grateful for his answer, you smiled in pure delight before sitting cross-legged on the middle of the training mat. “Oh, I know I am. Besides, I wanted to take you up on that offer which was made by a helpful Ben.”

He scoffed, shaking his head. “Don’t ever call me that. You’re delusional for thinking I want to help you.”

You dramatically pressed your hand to your chest. “‘Oh, Y/N, I just can’t live with myself if something happened to you. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep you safe, even if that means helping you advance your powers.’”

Forced laughter erupted from Ben’s chest. “Har har, and I thought Sundance was the hilarious one.”

“Klaus.” You reminded him diligently.

Ben rolled his eyes. “Whatever, Empath.”

You were strangely getting used to this Ben and felt truly like you were having a grand ol' time with him. Even if that meant ruffling his feathers. “You want to know what I think?”

“No,” Ben muttered with a gruff voice.

You continued as if you hadn’t heard him, “Someone’s really pretending that they don’t care about anyone or anything. Or, second theory-”

“I’m on the edge of my seat,” Ben interrupted you wryly.

“Maybe you don’t mind a distraction to take your mind off things.”

This time around, Ben turned to face you before he knelt down. Leaning over you until you could feel his warm breath on your skin. “You think you’re so smart, don’t you?”

“I’m the emotional one, remember?” You whispered before you pursed your lips when a thought hit you. “Not to mention, I can feel your curiosity, with a smidge of you itching for a fight.”

Ben snorted. “You’re adorable for thinking you can take me in a fight-”

An angelic smile tugged at your mouth. Your fingers brushed against his bare chest which was revealed underneath the dark robe. Your fingertips tingled before you let your power come to the surface.

The golden shimmer enshrouded Ben’s chest, pulling him backwards. No matter how many times you had done it before, your hands cautiously studied his aura once you heard his heavy breathing.

You still whispered soothingly, “That’s the sensation you get for being close to fainting. That feeling of vertigo tormenting your body and like your head can’t get enough air.”

The caring side of you stroked Ben’s feverish forehead until the dizzying spell lessened and was finally relieved.

You swallowed once you met Ben’s darkened gaze. He stared at you with glittering eyes, like he was truly seeing you for the first time. Ben licked his lips. “I think … I might have some use for you after all.”

“You may not know this, but my power doesn’t work like a medium,” you said, nervously rubbing your thighs to stimulate your senses.

Ben sighed, massaging the bridge of his nose. The Sparrow had changed back into a shirt after the impromptu training session. He leaned forward and warned through clenched teeth. “Do you want to be of help, or not? Get this done, and you and your brother can go back to whatever shithole you stay at.”

“Not with this type of energy in the room.” You widened your eyes at Ben’s glowering ones to make your point. Before long you sat down on Marcus’ bed, with a bored Fei leaning against the door jamb.

Ben’s sister twiddled her manicured fingernails. “Is this a waste of time?”

He clenched his jaw, facing her. “No, it’s not. I know what she can do.”

“Aww, Benny-boo, you believe in me. That’s so cute. Who knew you had a heart?”

Fei smirked, tilting her head. “Not me.”

“You guys are hilarious. Are we done with the ‘band together against Ben today’? I’m doing whatever it takes to locate Marcus here and you two are not helping with the situation.”

You pressed your lips together at Ben’s all too serious demeanor. “Just trying to lighten the mood since your tense atmosphere isn’t helping with the task at hand.”

Ben shared a close-lipped smile, caging your body in on the bed. Despite his threatening air, you remained steadfast and didn’t move an inch.

“Do you mind just doing the thing before I lose my mind and let my tentacles do the talking?”

You narrowed your eyes. Ben needed to work on his lacking social skills, if his only resort were threats. “Say please?”

You could breathe easier again when Ben straightened his body and crossed his arms. “Keep dreaming.”

You exhaled heavily. Half the time he was fun to talk to and other times, he wore you out. “Just give me something of his that holds emotional value,” you mentioned, patiently waiting. The awkward silence confused you to no end. Ben and Fei exchanged glances among each other.

“Why is nothing happening?”

Ben turned to Fei. “Get Sloane.”

His sister tilted her head, challenging him. “Oh, I can just summon my crows.”

The muscles on Ben’s arms tensed before his jaw clenched with his next words. “Fei, take a walk.”

Her shoulder shook with mirth when Fei left with relaxed steps.

Ben’s sarcastic voice pulled you back to him. “I’m guessing giving you one of his leather jackets wouldn’t count, right?”

Your elbows supported you when you settled back. “Wouldn’t get the desired effect. So, let me guess, you guys are just numbers and soldiers?”

Ben shrugged, leaning his hip against the cabinet. “Gets the job done.”

“And you’re content with that?”

“It’s the only thing that matters.”

You didn’t believe him for a second. Or at least, you couldn’t imagine someone being satisfied with being so shallow. “Right. Because being associated to a number is all that matters.”

Ben smirked crookedly. “Oh, there’s nothing better.”

“Right, Number Two,” you added, trying to get to him.

“You trying to flirt with me, Eight?”

You rolled your eyes, retorting, “You wish.”

Ben chuckled, pondering to himself. “Who’d have thought? Maybe I prefer calling you Empath more than Eight. It’s pretty close though.”

You shook your head, feeling your cheeks blush at being more intertwined with that status of Empath than a generic number. “You’re weird.”

The mood of his aura changed to something unfamiliar. At least to someone like Ben. He cleared his throat. “So,…”

“So…?” You teasingly copied him, putting the side of your head against your shoulder, watching his reaction.

Ben crossed his arms. “What was he like?”

“Our Ben? Why do you want to know?” To you, it seemed strange for someone like him to inquire about his alternate version.

He eyed something outside the window. “Just curious, I guess,” Ben said, still not looking at you.

“Why don’t you ask Klaus or the others? I only met Ben after he was dead.”

“Wait, what?” That finally got a reaction out of Ben when he rapidly turned his head to stare at you with a peculiar gaze.

You sighed, remembering the circumstances of you meeting your siblings for the first time. “Reginald called me ‘the replacement’.”

Maybe this was ultimately his plan to ostracize you from the others by using that term. At least, you had Diego and Luther at your side. Klaus soon joined that tight-knit little circle once you confided in feeling that sensation of an unfamiliar aura wandering the halls of the manor.

Sometimes it still hurt how everything progressed. Your siblings emanating their grief onto you didn’t bother you. It was their apathy, that they didn’t care about you.

“I was taken in after Ben’s death. I could only feel his aura around after he was dead. I can sense who someone is in a way. Feel what kind of a person they are. Ben was always…” You pondered deeply how to describe someone like him. How to condense someone’s life and traits into the essence of someone.

“Kind, intelligent, mostly mischievous.” You smiled fondly, whispering quietly, “I could never replace him even if I tried.”

You didn’t know what it was about your gaze that made the Sparrow avoid it again. With the shaking of your head, you dispelled your thoughts. The new aura close by tickling your fingertips was a fitting distraction.

You glanced towards the open door. “Hey, Sloane.”

Seconds later, said woman poked her head into the room, smiling with a delighted air. “Neat party trick.”

An expectant Ben raised his eyebrows, interrupting any further carefree moments. “Sloane, Marcus’ favorite stuff he liked to touch?”

You felt inclined to add something else before more inquiries could arise. “In other words, yes. Or something that mattered to him.”

“There should be a book in his nightstand.”

That was the only mention Ben needed before he opened the drawer. Ben shook his head with a scoff, inspecting the worn edition. He showed his sisters the found evidence. “Are you kidding me? The Velveteen Rabbit?”

Sloane waved her open palms soothingly. “Remember we just want Marcus back.”

“What a nerd,” he grumbled, carelessly giving you the book.

“Says you? It’s a timeless classic,” you admonished Ben lightly before reaching for the hardcover edition.

Ben smirked. “I rest my case.” He furrowed his brows when a second thought hit him. “And what did you just say to me?”

You chose to ignore Ben’s little angry outburst when Sloane sat next to you on the bed. “Will it be enough for you to build a psychic connection?”

You closed your eyes, trying to hone in on the source. With your fingertips brushing along the spine of the book, your search for the truth was soon answered with the first memory remnants hitting you. Shivers coursed through your body at the sensation of Marcus’ memories filling your mind like they were your own.

There was an abundance of wishful thinking contained into the book, the craving of a different reality when Marcus’ birth mother granted him this first and last gift.

“It should suffice,” you said assuredly. With a calming sigh, you leaned your head back against the pillows. The book was held tightly in your grip.

“Yeah, sure. Have a nap, why don’t you? Something else you need? Maybe some soothing music, a face mask?”

Your eyes remained closed when you murmured, “Ben Hargreeves.” To get the message across, you made a quiet coyote signal. Hoping it would calm his frayed nerves.

A ripple of Ben’s undignified frustration wafted through the air. His only answer was a harrumphing noise.

You stirred your head, biting your lip in confusion. “I can feel a strong enough remnant, but I should be able to sense his location.”

“What are you saying?” Ben inquired tightly.

You chose your next words carefully. “I’m saying, … I can’t feel Marcus.”

“What does this mean?” Fei’s strained voice shared Ben’s sentiment. “Are you saying he’s dead? Abducted?”

At last, you opened your eyes. The perplexity of this unsolved mystery still plaguing your mind even after. It was more than nerve-wracking. “I’m saying that I should be able to find him, but I can’t. It’s like he just … vanished.”

The air crackled with hostility. Anxiously, you swallowed, staring straightforward. You jumped back when Ben’s wrath reached you.

Holding you down with his tentacles, with one of them slinging around your throat. Tightly but menacingly enough to spell out his primal urges. Ben’s body draped over yours. Fury blazed in his darkened eyes. “Now, Umbrella, I’m done with your little mind games.”

Sloane stood behind Ben’s shoulder, raising her voice. “Ben, let go.”

“Not until I find out what her family has done to him.”

With a hoarse voice, you implored darkly, “Listen to your sister before your Cthulu tentacles get the memo about me too.” As a warning, you gripped the surprisingly smooth appendage around your throat.

You cursed your curious mind for even harboring the thought of wanting to know how the tentacle’s skin would feel like.

Ben’s smile grew tighter, the more his eldritch monster’s hold intensified. “Try me, Eight.”

Summoning empathetic energy from within to converse it as a kinetic shield, you blasted him against the cabinet and leaving small splinters of wood on the carpet.

With a grunting noise, Ben’s tentacles drew back into his body. “Alright,” he murmured reluctantly. Ben dragged his body upwards until he was leaning against the furniture for support. He offered a blood-stained smile in reverence before he wiped off the crimson evidence from his lips. “Little minx.”

A dull thud resounded when you dropped the book on the duvet. You stood up and with a quiet voice you told Ben in no uncertain terms, “Don’t ever threaten me again.”

Remembering the company of Ben’s sisters and the result of your outburst, you awkwardly glanced at them before your feet led you towards the open door.

Wordlessly, Fei turned her body to make room. Her gaze roamed over your body with fondness after your display of power. As soon as you left the room, her dry voice remarked, “I’d consider this a success.”