“You’re staring,” he mutters without looking up, voice soft but smug, because of course he knows.

“Maybe I am,” you shoot back, still leaning against the doorframe. “You clean up nice, Barnes.”

He lifts his head then, tie half-done, a slow grin curving his mouth. “You make me sound like a piece of furniture.”

“You kinda are. Big, sturdy, occasionally creaky—”

“—and built to last,” he interrupts, crossing the room in two long strides before you can escape. His arms come around your waist, solid and familiar, the kind of hold that roots you in place. “Don’t go getting shy on me now, doll. You’re the one who picked this thing out.”

You smooth the front of his shirt with your palms, watching the pulse flutter at his throat. “You just looked too good not to. You’re gonna make everyone else look bad.”

He leans in, voice dropping. “Good. Let ‘em see.”

And you think that might be your favorite thing about him — the quiet confidence, the ease. He never makes you feel like you’re taking up too much space. If anything, he takes up space with you.

The drive to the venue is easy. You’ve got one hand on the wheel, the other laced with his over the console. Bucky hums along to the radio, thumb brushing lazy circles over your knuckles. You can feel him glancing at you every so often — the way you do when you love someone and just want to make sure they’re still real.

“Hey,” he says softly when the road narrows and the fields stretch out golden around you. “You nervous?”

You shrug. “A little. I used to hate weddings. Always went alone. Always felt like—”

“Like the only one without a dance partner?”

You look over, and he’s smiling that small, knowing smile that makes your stomach twist.

“Yeah,” you admit. “Like that.”

He squeezes your hand, metal cool against your skin. “Not anymore, sweetheart.”

The reception hall smells like champagne and peonies. You’re halfway through saying hi to the bride when Bucky’s hand finds the small of your back — protective, grounding. You used to dread moments like this, the small talk, the half-hearted “still single?” jokes. But with him there, it’s different.

He laughs with you, slides his hand into yours when you start fidgeting, offers his arm when you’re navigating through the crowd. He looks at you like you’re the one in the white dress, like every light in the room is conspiring to make you glow.

And people notice.

They notice the way he leans down when you whisper something, the way his eyes soften when you laugh. Even your friends — the ones who have seen you cry over bad dates and empty plus-ones — they look at you like they can’t quite believe it. Like they’ve never seen you so happy.

At one point, your old college friend pulls you aside near the bar. “Okay,” she hisses, grinning. “Where the hell did you find him?”

You laugh, cheeks warm. “Long story.”

She nods toward Bucky across the room, where he’s talking to the groom, that easy smile on his face. “He’s looking at you like you hung the moon.”

And for once, you don’t feel the need to deflect. You just smile and say, “Yeah. I know.”

Dinner’s loud and full of laughter, the kind that makes your cheeks ache. Bucky’s hand never leaves yours, his thumb tracing lazy patterns under the table. When the best man tells a joke that lands badly, he leans over to whisper something in your ear that makes you snort into your drink.

He beams at the sound — actually beams — and presses a kiss to your temple like he’s proud of himself.

By the time the first dance starts, you’ve lost count of how many times you’ve caught him looking at you. He tugs you toward the dance floor before you can make an excuse, his grin crooked and boyish.

“Bucky, I can’t dance in heels.”

“Then take ‘em off.”

He’s already kicked his shoes aside, offering his hand, and you let him pull you close until your chest meets his. The music is soft, something timeless, and his breath is warm against your hair.

“Better?” he murmurs.

“Better.”

You sway together, slow and steady, the world narrowing to just the two of you. His fingers trace up your spine, and every nerve in your body hums.

“You know,” he says after a moment, his voice low, “I used to hate this kinda thing too.”

“What, weddings?”

He nods. “Never knew what to do with myself. Always felt outta place. Now?” He leans back just enough to look at you, eyes searching. “Feels like I finally fit somewhere.”

You swallow, words catching in your throat. “With me?”

“With you.”

And just like that, all the years of sitting alone at reception tables, pretending not to care, fade into something small and far away. Because now there’s this — his arms around you, his voice soft in your ear, his heart beating steady under your palm.

You don’t even realize the song’s ended until people start clapping around you. Bucky only laughs, keeps you pressed close.

“One more,” he murmurs, already swaying again. “They can wait.”

Later, when the night slows and the stars come out, you find yourselves outside on the patio. The air smells like grass and champagne, the fairy lights above you flickering like tiny constellations.

Bucky’s jacket is draped over your shoulders, his tie hanging loose around his neck. He’s got that tired, content smile — the kind that comes after a long day of good things.

“You have fun?” he asks.

You nod, fiddling with the edge of his jacket sleeve. “More than I expected to.”

“Good. You deserve that.”

You glance up at him, heart swelling at how easy he says it. How much he means it.

“Thank you,” you murmur. “For coming. I know these things aren’t exactly your scene.”

He shrugs. “Didn’t matter what it was. I just wanted to be where you were.”

Your chest tightens, eyes stinging. God, you used to dread this kind of vulnerability — used to think showing how much you cared was dangerous. But with him? It feels safe.

He catches your chin with two fingers, tilts your face up until your eyes meet his. “You’re not alone anymore, doll. Not ever again.”

You lean in before you can stop yourself, kissing him soft and slow. He tastes like champagne and promise, like something you never thought you’d have.

When you finally pull back, he rests his forehead against yours, smiling that small, secret smile.

“Next wedding,” he whispers, “we’re crashing the dance floor first.”

You laugh. “Deal.”

He grins wider, thumb brushing along your jaw. “And maybe one day, I’ll be the idiot waiting for you at the end of the aisle.”

Your breath catches.

He chuckles softly, like he didn’t mean to say it out loud. “Too soon?”

“Not at all,” you whisper.

Because maybe for the first time, you can picture it — the two of you standing side by side, not as guests but as something more permanent, something certain.

In the beginning, you and Steve had agreed on eloping. Getting married in secret and, when people were free, holding a small wedding. Which, undoubtedly would become a grand affair once Tony caught wind of the word small. 

But, when the team learned you were both on your way to elope, they’d stopped you. A real wedding would go ahead and, since they were your family, you both agreed. 

But then Ultron happened. So, the wedding was postponed in order to deal with the aftermath. 

Then Hydra decided to resurface during a mission where Bucky and Sam had gone solo. It had resulted in Bucky and Sam being captured. Mostly, the team were worried they’d kill each other rather than Hydra. 

And they were right to. 

Once they were back and safe, Steve sat them both down with a couple’s therapist. 

Finally finding a date which worked out, the planning had begun again. 

Only, some kid calling himself Spider-Man singlehandedly stopped The Vulture from taking all of Tony’s old tech. 

It was one mission after another. Somewhere in the mix, you and Steve had a conversation over eloping again. 

“Can you be arsed moving from this bed right now?” You asked Steve as you both finally laid down. 

An emergency hostage mission had taken three days to complete. 

Steve sighed. “Not really.”

With a dramatic sigh, you rolled into his side. “Thank god. I love you and I do want to marry you but-”

“You’d rather sleep?”

“Does that make me a bad fiance?”

Steve shook his head. “Only if it makes me one, too.”

With a tired chuckle, you laid your head on his chest. Within seconds you were both fast asleep. The mission (and the shower you’d both shared barely twenty minutes earlier) had taken it out of you. 

So, standing in front of the body length oval mirror, you stared at yourself. 

Dressed in the wedding gown you’d found in a small boutique just down the block from Kate and Yelena’s apartment. You and the girls had been hunting for weeks, but none of the dresses seemed right until you tried on the one you were wearing. 

It was everything you’d ever dreamed of – when you allowed yourself to dream of your wedding day. 

Your flowers that you’d hold whilst walking down the aisle were resting on your desk. Bluebells, peonies, baby's breath; you’re pretty sure when Yelena walked into the florist, she simply asked for flowers that meant ‘everlasting love’. 

Your make-up was suited to you. A little more elevated than your everyday look. Along with your hair, which was decorated by a simple vail. 

But whilst your heart was overflowing with joy and excitement at the idea of finally marrying Steve, something heavy weighed in your gut. 

Then a knock rattled against your suite door. 

“Come in,” you called. 

The door opened a little and a voice spoke softly. “Y/n?”

“Steve?” You hurried over to the door. “What are you doing? You know it’s bad luck to see me before the wedding.”

Steve let out a small chuckle. “Considering all of what we’ve managed to survive through, I doubt that seeing you in your wedding dress is going to change that. We both know it’s not going to be on for very long anyway. Can I come in?”

You let out a sigh in order to hide your laughter. “You know, if the team knew you were as half as dirty as you are, they’d have a heart attack. Come on in.”

Stepping back from the door, you watched as Steve stepped inside. He wasn’t in his full tux yet. 

But, whilst your eyes were raking over your soon-to-be husband’s body, his own were doing the same. 

“My god,” he breathed. “You look beautiful.”

You hoped he’d never stop making you blush. “You can thank Natasha for that one. She’s had me glued to the make-up chair all morning.”

Steve stepped forward, pulling you in by your wait. “I think the only person I need to thank is you. I don’t know how I got so lucky.”

With a pleased hum, you lifted your arms around his neck before leaning up and kissing him. “We both got lucky. Now, why are you here?”

A slightly different expression came over Steve’s face. “Fury called.”

You lowered yourself back onto your feet. “Oh.”

Steve let you go gently, watching as you walked over to your desk. “I told him no-”

“But he’s still asking us to go,” you finished before you gave a sigh. “I’m starting to wonder if we should have just eloped.”

Steve nodded as he walked closer. “We still could.”

“When does the jet leave?” 

“Two hours.”

Right in time for the actual start of the ceremony. 

“We’d never get into the court in time.”

Slowly, Steve’s arms wrapped themselves around your waist. You jumped a little before relaxing into him with a smile. “Maybe we could just quit.”

You chuckled. “We still need jobs, Steve. And you’re Captain America. Captain America can’t take a day off.”

“Yeah, well,” Steve sighed. “Steve Rogers does. I’m sorry, honey.”

You shook your head. “Don’t be. It’s not your fault. And I know it’s not really Fury’s fault either but I’m deciding to blame him for now. Calling us in on our day off.”

“Calling us in on our wedding day.”

You chuckled and turned in his arms, pressing a kiss to his lips. His hands just held you a little tighter.

“Maybe when we get back we can finally get married.”

Steve kissed you back. “We could still elope.”

“The court house won’t have any free space, would they?”

“We don’t need a court house.”

You stared at Steve. “What?”

“Bucky’s been ordained.”

You reeled back. “What?!”

Steve nodded. “Back in the 40s. Surely it has to still stand?”

“What did he get ordained for?”

Steve smiled. “Our neighbours wanted to get married at the pier but nobody was available. Bucky stepped up.”

“Why didn’t you tell me this sooner?”

“He asked me not to,” Steve admitted. “He doesn’t do well with huge crowds.”

“Would he do it for us now?”

Steve nodded. “I asked him just before I came in here.”

You stepped back with a wide smile, hitting him on his chest. “Why didn’t you start with that?!”

He smiled. “I’m telling you now. Is that a yes?”

You scoffed, “Of course it’s a yes.”

Kissing him quickly, you turned him around and pushed him towards the door. But he turned back before you could open it. “Wait.”

“What?”

He kissed you like it was the last time he’d ever kiss you. And, technically, it was. The next time you’d kiss him, he’d finally be your husband. 

“Meet me on the stone steps outside,” Steve told you. 

The building that was being used both as your ceremony hall and venue had an old wooden door that led out to a set of small spiral stone steps. From there, it led out towards an orchard and rolling hills. 

“Okay. What about the others?”

“Natasha’s got Yelena on it.”

You smiled. “Okay. Good. Does this make us bad friends?”

Steve shrugged. “When we get back, we’ll hold something for all of them.”

You smiled, leaning over and kissing him quickly. “Okay. Go. Quickly. I love you.”

Steve smiled. “I love you, too.”

Three minutes later, Natasha poked her head into your suite. “Ready?”

You grabbed your bouquet. “Ready.”

Over the next few minutes, you told her everything you knew about Steve from your texts and phone calls. He’d been so sweet at first, asking advice on how to handle his duties as a best man. That didn’t stop him from also checking in with you about handling all your duties as maid-of-honor. The thought he wanted to help you if he could or at least hear you vent had really helped you over the past few months.

It wasn’t like Nat was a bridezilla or anything. Far from it, but you had found some of your duties bothersome. The florist had tried to price gouge them despite the simple designs and few pieces needed to set up the reception’s venue. Then, there’d been the logistics of getting all the girls of the wedding party and other friends of Nat’s together for her bachelorette party a week ago.

Steve had listened to it all, never trying to step in and fix it. You could tell the urge was there based on the way his voice changed over the phone. But he didn’t. He just let you vent and offered you what comfort he could through the phone.

You’d done the same when he called about figuring out what to do for Bucky’s bachelor party. Most of the ideas he could find online didn’t sound all that appealing to him or Bucky, but he’d wanted to give Bucky that right of passage before the wedding. It’d been you to suggest a weekend camping trip or something a bit sportier for Bucky and his Howler friends.

The sweet relief in Steve’s tone had sent the butterflies fluttering in your middle. Oh, you liked how much he could affect you, and you’d yet to meet him face-to-face.

Every time you tried to set that up, something would come up.

It never dawned on you that other powers worked against you and Steve meeting up before the wedding.

By the end of your tale, Nat sank back into her seat with a pleased expression of her own. Without a hint of reservation, she declared, “You’re falling in love with Steve, aren’t you?”

You shook your head.

The thought was impossible, but then again, was it really?

Sure, you hadn’t seen what he looked like, but then, looks had never truly impressed you. Well, that wasn’t the whole truth, either. You didn’t care for some of the more conventional looks that deemed someone attractive. No, you looked for things about a person that others might not necessarily notice at first.

With Steve, you didn’t have to know what he looked like to know that he was your type. He had a subtler sense of humor though he had some sassier moments with you at times. His voice never failed to soothe away the roughness of a day whenever you talked. The way he texted might be a bit on the old-fashioned side, but he never left you in doubt about the tone of his words. He always liked to be crystal clear, so no misunderstandings happened, possibly hurting your feelings or souring your mood.

At last, you admitted, “I don’t know. Maybe. He’s not like anyone I’ve dated before, and we’re not even dating. I mean, I don’t even know if he likes me as anything more than an acquaintance helping him out.”

“You know,” Nat paused long enough to ensure she had your attention, “I could always ask Bucky if Steve talks about you. Then, you’d know one way or another.”

“No, please don’t. I can wait until your wedding to learn one way or another. Just a few more days, right?”

Nat nodded, her smile softening with fondness. No doubt her mind drifted to thoughts of Bucky while she played with the engagement ring on her finger. It gleamed in the sunlight. It took her a moment to come back to you. “Sorry. Yeah, a few more days. Who knows? Maybe it won’t be long before we’re planning a wedding for you and Steve if you two hit it off.”

“Maybe we should just wait and see how our first face-to-face goes,” you said, laughing and holding up your hands. “No sense getting ahead of ourselves. Steve and I should probably try being friends first before we jump to the idea of dating, let alone marriage.”

“You change your mind before Saturday, let me know.”

*****

You didn’t change your mind.

Saturday rolled around, bright and clear. A beautiful day for the wedding of your best friend and her fiancé.

You, Nat, and the other ladies headed to the wedding’s venue early. The limo Nat rented nearly burst at the seams between dresses, ladies, makeup bags, and everything else you might need. Not that the tight squeeze bothered any of you as you talked and joked on your way.

The venue’s director had almost everything complete by your arrival, which made it easier for you all to dash into the bridal suite.

While the ladies quickly changed into their gowns, you took charge of working on their hair and makeup, starting with Nat.

You were making decent progress until a commotion from the main area grabbed your attention.

“Excuse me,” you said and hurried from the room.

You’d taken one step into the main area when something small but solid slammed into you. Your arms flailed to keep you upright, but it wasn’t in your cards to stay on your feet. A hard smack to your behind was your reward for your spectacular failure to save yourself.

“Ow.” You winced when you shifted to get up.

“Wow, we’re so sorry,” one of Bucky’s Howler friends said. His hand stretched out between you, his face pulling tight with concern and contrition. “We didn’t see you there.”

“Obviously.” You chuckled, hoping it would help lessen their guilt for knocking you over. “Nothing’s broken at least, so no harm done.”

Back on your feet, you spared the man who’d knocked you over with what appeared to be a small barrel of something. The man sported a thick mustache across his lip, which he gnawed at without seeming to realize it as he watched you and what you might do next.

“Dum Dum, you better not hurt my girl’s best friend. She will whoop you,” Bucky called, coming closer to the two of you as you continued to swipe at the invisible dust covering your bottom. His voice softened as he asked, “You okay, Sweets?”

You nodded. “Yeah, I’m fine.”

“Go help Steve finish unloading the truck, Dugan. I’m going to escort this beautiful lady back to the bridal suite.”

The mischievous gleam that entered Bucky’s gaze had you holding up your hands. You bit back your laughter at how fast his face shifted into a pout, knowing he’d been thwarted. “I’m fine to get back on my own. You know full well you’re not seeing the bride until the ceremony. So, get your butt in the groom’s suite and start getting ready. Got that, mister?”

“People should call you Sergeant Sweets,” he quipped though he did as you bid.

You simply shook your head at him.

It was only as you were turning to head back that you caught sight of the figure standing in the doorway leading to the parking lot. At first, you might’ve mistook the man standing there for a teenager, but you soon dismissed the notion. His bearing spoke of years beyond what his silhouette implied.

When he stepped further into the venue’s main area, your breath caught.

This man might be slight of stature, but he was no less handsome. His blonde hair had a bit of length that called you to comb your fingers through it, just to see if you could muss it. His cheeks held a bit of stubble while his hands had smudges of what might be pencil dust or charcoal. You couldn’t be sure.

It was his eyes that really caught your attention when he got close enough. Not only did the blueness of his eyes draw you in until you could make out the smallest flecks of green. His long eyelashes called to you, whispering promises of butterfly kisses. Oh, you always loved the thought of butterfly kisses coming from the one you loved and truly loved you in return.

Hoping your staring hadn’t put him off, you offered him a warm smile and a tiny wave.

He mimicked your motions though his cheeks tinted with a lovely shade of pink.

Before you could say anything, one of the bridesmaids came and pulled you urgently back to the bridal suite.

You could only hope that you would see the handsome guy again. Getting his name would be your main mission if you got a second chance.

*****

There was no way for you to know that the guy you’d seen grew preoccupied with thoughts of you while slowly getting ready in the groom’s suite.

He’d known you would be there. You were the maid of honor, but nothing could’ve prepared him for that first sight of you.

Your laugh had been the first thing he’d heard as he neared the venue’s front doors. It drew him in as much as it did during your rather frequent phone calls together. He wanted to hear it and often. It wasn’t unheard of for him to try and make you laugh, especially after you vented about your day to him. He needed to hear your laugh to make his days that much brighter.

Then, he’d heard your voice as you spoke with Dum Dum Dugan. To say he was floating would’ve been an understatement. Your voice had been a melody he used to fall asleep for weeks now. He never wanted to not go a day without hearing it. He should’ve felt more like a creep for loving your voice as much as he did.

Oh, man, he wished he’d been better prepared.

A small part of him thrilled at seeing how much Dugan towered over you. Not in a threatening way as Dugan wouldn’t ever, of course. You certainly didn’t seem afraid of Dum Dum though Bucky had quickly intervened to ensure you were okay.

No, it was the fact he could tell that you maybe stood within an inch of his height. You came up to about the same spot he did when standing near Dugan and even Bucky. He wouldn’t have to necessarily worry about you hating him for being too much shorter than you. A fact that had kept him out of the dating scene for a while.

What really sucker-punched him though was your smile.

Oh, to have you smile at him would be…

It would be a dream come true if he were being honest.

He’d fallen for you over the weeks of phone calls and texts. If he could have a slither’s hope of a chance with you, then he would be the world’s happiest guy.

He –

“What’s up with you, punk?” Bucky asked, fixing his tie in the large mirror taking up much of one wall. “You’ve been quiet since you walked in here.”

At first, Steve debated answering, but then decided to speak up. “Do you believe in love at first sight, Buck?”

Bucky’s hands stilled as he turned to face his best friend. A smirk flashed across his face as he asked, “Someone finally caught your attention, huh? Who’s the lucky lady?”

Unknown to Steve, Bucky could only hope Steve had taken one look at you and fallen for you. He’d been working so hard to make sure you two didn’t meet until today with some help from Nat. The two of you hadn’t had much luck in the love department. He’d wanted someone who could love Steve as much as he loved Nat while Nat wanted the same for you. After a little bit of discussion, it dawned on him and Nat that you two might be perfect for each other. Then, the matchmaking began, starting with asking you two to play best man and maid of honor. It ended with this ultimate moment of reveal.

Steve’s soft voice broke through Bucky’s thoughts as he said your name.

“I don’t even know if she’s interested in me, Buck. I’m not what most women want. Why would she be any different? As much as I might want her to be, it would be stupid to get my hopes up, right?”

“You think the woman you’ve been texting and talking to almost every night is going to care what you look like? Did she ever give you any indication that she’d care?”

Steve frowned at that, then shook his head. “No, but come on, Buck. This isn’t a fairy tale we’re living in. I’m not exactly meant to win the heart of a princess.”

“Listen to me, punk,” Bucky dropped his hands on top of Steve’s shoulders, “Sweets is the kind of woman to see into a guy’s heart and judge him based on his character, not for the way he looks. I can guarantee she’ll give you a chance if you have the courage to ask for it. Promise me you’ll take that chance with her.”

As much as Steve wanted to drop this discussion entirely, he opened the door. There would be no shutting it now that Bucky had stepped in and insisted on a promise from him.

At last, he nodded. “Fine. I’ll ask her. If she says no, then you’re going to buy me several rounds once you’re back from your honeymoon. Got it, jerk?”

“If she turns you down, I’ll buy you a whole bar.” Bucky grinned before going back to work on getting ready. His gaze met Steve’s over his shoulder in the mirror. “But I’m confident she’s going to say yes.”

*****

Before you knew it, the ceremony was set to begin.

You managed to stave off the disaster you’d been pulled to handle. Then, you got yourself ready for Nat’s big day, taking special care with your makeup and hair.

Within minutes, you would be walking behind the other bridesmaids with Steve at your side. A part of you really hoped that Steve was the guy you’d seen in the main area before you’d been pulled away. Your luck had never been all that great though.

More likely, he was a guest who’d shown up early or possibly a worker for the venue who’d wandered in. That last option didn’t sound quite so plausible, but you couldn’t be sure. You’d seen several of their employees flitting around both the interior and exterior the few times you’d joined Nat for her meetings with the director.

“Hey, girl, let’s get moving. I’ve got a groom waiting for me,” Nat said, giving you a push toward the door of the bridal suite.

The bridesmaids and flower girl had already left the room, taking up their places.

Nat smirked at you. “The way you’re looking, you’d think you were the nervous bride. Should I be worried about you?”

You quickly shook your head.

“Then, let’s do this. You don’t want to keep Steve waiting any longer than you have to. If you’re not careful, he’s liable to be snapped up by one of the guests, then where will you be?”

A reluctant smile flitted across your lips before you straightened your shoulders and took that first step towards the door.

The hallway wasn’t quite as crowded as you feared it might be. Several of the bridesmaids had already begun their journey down the carpeted path leading to the altar at the front of the venue. Only two stood and waited their turns with their respective groomsman.

A lone figure fidgeted near the split-off for the groom’s suite. The same figure you’d seen earlier.

Hope ignited within you at the sight of him.

His gaze bounced up as you neared him, his eyes widening a bit.

Oh, the blue really did have a bit more green in them than you initially thought they did. So beautiful with the way his suit really made those small flecks stand out.

The smile you gave Nat before leaving the bridal suite returned full force.

“Steve?” you asked softly, hoping not to spook him.

He nodded, saying your name like a question as well.

“It’s nice to finally put a face to your beautiful voice,” you said, your cheeks heating behind your makeup.

The pink you’d seen earlier returned while he ducked his head. You mourned the loss of his eyes though you did get another view of his long, feathered lashes. So, you couldn’t (and wouldn’t) complain.

He finally said, “I feel like I should be the one saying that.”

“You can if you’d like. I certainly won’t stop you.”

To your astonishment, the pink deepened though you caught sight of the upward curve of his mouth. He liked your gentle teasing, or at least, that’s what you hoped. Surely, fate wouldn’t be so cruel as to tease you with this man at your side, only to have him not like you as much as you’d come to like him.

He didn’t get the chance to say anything as you’d reached the end of the aisle. You both took your proper places at the altar with Nat close behind you.

Soon, she stepped up next to you, handing over her bouquet to take Bucky’s hands instead. She shot you a quick wink and a nod at Steve. If she could’ve gotten away with a thumbs up, she probably would’ve done it.

You could only shake your head at her. Amusement rolled through you even as you snuck a few discreet glances in Steve’s direction. Your gazes met as the officiant finally announced Bucky could kiss his bride, declaring them husband and wife.

Steve’s arm came out as Bucky led Nat back down the aisle towards the partitioned area that would also serve as their reception area.

You took it without hesitation, allowing him to take the lead.

While you couldn’t say you weren’t disappointed that you two weren’t assigned seats side by side, you were happy that he wasn’t situated too far from you.

In fact, Bucky and Nat made it a point to stay on the dance floor long after their first dance to give you both a chance to talk. Neither of them missed the way you and Steve looked at one another. They were beyond happy to see the successful results of their matchmaking attempts.

You even managed to get Steve out on the dance floor for a slow dance or two. His two left feet didn’t bother you, working with him to relax enough to enjoy swaying to the music.

Conversation slowly began to flow effortlessly between the two of you as the evening wore on.

The only darkness that loomed over the evening was Steve’s continued failure to ask you out for a real date.

You kept waiting and waiting for him to make a move. Hint after hint, you dropped in the hopes he’d take the initiative.

He never did.

When the reception came to an end, you gave up all hope. Steve simply wasn’t interested while you’d come to realize that you could find yourself really falling for him. If only he’d give you a chance, then you could possibly make him fall for you, too.

Dum Dum came up to Steve after Bucky and Nat drove off, ready to kickstart their wedding night. He offered Steve a ride home, which Steve accepted.

“I had a really nice time,” he said softly, almost shyly.

You couldn’t help the genuine smile that settled over your lips. “I did, too. Not sure I really want the night to end, but I guess it has to.”

“Let’s go, Rogers,” Dum Dum called out.

Steve glanced at the Howler and grimaced. “I guess I should go. Thank you for everything. I get why Bucky calls you Sweets. You’re the sweetest woman I’ve ever met.”

“It’s easy with a gentleman like you. If you ever want to talk or something, you can always call,” you said after gathering the last shreds of your courage. This was your last chance, and you wanted to put the ball on his side of the court one final time. “Good night, Steve.”

With a small wave, he turned and started walking towards where Dum Dum waited. He got two whole steps, then he changed course, coming to stand in front of you again.

You could see him swallow, his Adam’s apple bobbing before he blurted, “Go out with me. I mean, if you want. I, uh, I really like you, Sweets. Maybe if you like me, too, I could take you out sometime.”

Your cheeks hurt with how wide your smile became.

“Yeah, I’d like that,” you murmured, then leaned in to press a brief kiss to his cheek. When you pulled back, you added, “I really like you, too, Steve. Call me tomorrow?”

He nodded several times. His voice cracked, raising an octave. “I’ll call you tomorrow. Text me when you get home? I wanna make sure you get there safe.”

“I will. Go before Dum Dum tries to leave without you.”

Steve took off after Dum Dum, who’d threatened to leave him as you said he might.

It wasn’t until he reached the doorway that you called out, “Hey, Steve, do you believe someone could fall in love after a few calls and texts?”

He grinned. “Yeah, I do. I’m pretty sure I did.”

“I’m pretty sure I did, too,” you admitted with a dreamy smile.

 Everyone at STRATCOM took notice of how close the two of you were. Some wondered if the two of you would be reprimanded for fraternization. But surprisingly, that never happened. As far as the higher ups were concerned, the two of you were an amazing team who never failed to get the job done and get it done well. That was what was important.

So when the invite came in the mail for your brother's wedding, since you were single and did not wish to go alone, you decided to ask Leon to accompany you. When you asked him, to your surprise, you found yourself feeling nervous about asking him. It was one thing to ask him to go with you to a reception for work, but this time, it was personal,he would be meeting your family. To your surprise, he eagerly agreed to go.

But shortly after you RSVP’d, things were thrown for a loop. Your mother had texted that she and the others were very much looking forward to meeting your boyfriend. You were horribly confused until you double checked the invitation, which said that only significant others were allowed as plus ones. You informed Leon about it, who quickly agreed to play the part.

The idea didn't sit right with you at first. It was bad enough that you found yourself lying a lot to your family in order to keep them safe. Adding another lie on top of it could prove too much. But it was either that, lie and pretend to get pulled into work at the last minute or go alone. You had already missed several events due to work as it was. You didn't want to miss this one. So you agreed. 

The two of you sat down and hashed out a cover story. The two of you also negotiated how you would refer to each other and what was permitted as far as physical touch. To make up for it, you offered to pay for Leon’s train tickets and for the room itself.  

When you went to book the room, not only were the rates high there were only a few rooms left and none of the rooms were next to each other. But you saw that luckily, there were one or two that looked nice with two Queen beds. After checking with Leon to make sure he was okay sharing a room, you booked it and hoped for the best. 

Shortly after 2pm, the two of you arrived at the destination. Fortunately, the hotel was a few blocks away from the station, so it was just a short jaunt. The hotel itself was part of a larger resort, which included the wedding and reception venues.

Walking into the ornate marble lobby, you turned to Leon and said.“I’ll get us checked in.”

While you headed for the front desk,  Leon parked himself in a nearby comfortable leather chair and decided to check in with Hunnigan and make sure no new missions had come up. Thankfully none had so far and he hoped none would. Unknown to you, he had been looking forward to this weekend for a while, seeing it as a chance to get away from it all and have some fun with you.

About ten minutes later, Leon heard footsteps. He looked up and saw that you were walking up to him, looking a bit frustrated.

"What's up?" He asked, concerned.

"Um, apparently there was a mixup with the reservation."

"Did they lose it?"

"Not exactly. Apparently they overbooked and they had to switch some reservations around. But they upgraded us for free."

"That's a bad thing?" Leon asked, wondering what the big deal was.

"Depends on how you view getting upgraded from a room with two queen beds to a room with one king. And they don't have any additional rollaway beds either.

"Oh."

"Yeah and since the hotel is fully booked, and with this being a holiday weekend, we will have better luck finding the Holy Grail than we would finding a different room at the last minute.” You said, rubbing your eyes a bit, mentally kicking yourself for not double checking on the reservation earlier.

"It's okay. We'll make due. Besides, it's just one night." Leon said, both to assure you and assure himself. Though he was prepared to share the room with you, excited even, the idea of sharing the bed was exciting and daunting.

With nothing else for it, you two headed for the elevator and went up to the top floor. The room was just down the hall. Taking out a keycard, you unlocked the door and walked in.

Both you and Leon were stunned by what you saw. The two of you expected a plainly decorated room, but instead, the room was decorated in various shades of blues, with a four poster bed and a sitting area. There was a large tv across from the bed and just off the entryway was a large bathroom, with a vanity big enough for two and a large bathtub/shower.

Walking over to the bed, you saw that it was in fact a rather large king size. It would definitely fit the two of you with room to spare. 

“I can sleep in one of the chairs if you like.” Leon offered, sensing your nervousness. “Or on the floor.”

“No..it's okay. It's big enough. As long as you promise not to hog the covers.” You said, trying to cover your nerves. 

“I’ll try not to.” Leon smirked, raising his hands in mock protest.

You checked your watch and saw that the two of you had almost three hours before the wedding. Though it wouldn't take too long, the two of you would still have to walk to the venue and you wanted to get there early enough to introduce Leon to everyone before the wedding started.

“We should probably start getting ready.”

Since you planned to change in the bathroom, you let Leon get cleaned up first. Once he was done, you took a turn.While you got dressed in the bathroom, Leon unzipped his garment bag. Inside was a classic black tuxedo that he had altered a bit to hide a holster underneath if need be.  After he finished dressing, he styled his hair in the mirror, deciding to slick it back a bit.

Looking at himself in the mirror after he was done,Leon knew he looked put together, but he didn't feel put together. This was far from the first wedding he had ever been to, but to his surprise, he felt like a bundle of nerves. He felt as if he was about to walk down the aisle. 

Hearing the bathroom door open, Leon turned to see you walk out. His eyes popped, his jaw dropped and his heart stopped. You were dressed in an Egyptian blue one shoulder cocktail dress that showed off your figure nicely. You had paired it with gold t-strap heels and a few bits of gold jewelry. You were an absolute vision of loveliness.

“Do I look bad?” You asked, worried about his expression

“No, Far from it. It's just I never thought I'd see you in anything other than earth tones or black.”Leon said,scrambling to cover the fact that he felt like he had a million butterflies in his stomach now. While he had always thought of you as one of the most beautiful women he had ever met, seeing you like this was something else entirely.

" I might have gone a bit overboard. I don't get to dress up like this often.” You said, sheepishly as you held out your arms. “And I had to go with a dress that would hide my shoulder wound. Speaking of, would you finish zipping me up?”

You quickly turned around so Leon could assist you. As Leon walked over and zipped you up all the way, he imagined unzipping the dress all the way and helping you out of it.

Once he was done, you turned to examine him. You quickly began to feel more than a little warm.You had expected him to wear his usual blue suit that he reserved for work functions. While he looked good in a suit, he looked amazing in his tux. Hell, to you, he always looked good.

“Are you going to a wedding or an audition for James Bond?” You asked with a teasing smile as you straightened his bowtie just a bit.

Leon blushed a bit. “Is it too much?”

“No, it's perfect.” You said with a shy smile, thinking for a fleeting moment that it would look even more perfect on the floor.

Realizing that if you didn't do something quick, the two of you would be late, you said.“We should get going. I want you to meet everyone before the wedding. Remember what we agreed on?" 

"I can call you baby, babe, sweetheart or doll. Kisses on the cheek, forehead or hand. Hand holding is allowed, so are hugs.” Leon recited.

“ And I can call you babe, sexy or handsome. And the same rules apply to you for physical affection.”

“How long do we want to stay?” 

“Well, as far as I know, the newlyweds plan on leaving after the bouquet and garter toss. So we can always check out around then.”

“ Sounds good.”Let’s do this.” Leon said, ready to get things started.

You grabbed your gold clutch and the hotel keys and headed for the door with Leon close behind. 

“Oh we should get a few shots. Kinda promised Hunnigan.” You said, taking your phone out.You took a few selfies together first and then some individual shots.Some serious, some not so much.

 Once that matter was taken care of, the two of you left the room.Upon closing the door, Leon offered you his arm, which you eagerly took. If the two of you were going to sell this, you might as well start now.

“So, if I am Bond, does that make you Miss Moneypenny?” He joked in a mock British accent as the two of you walked off towards the elevator.

“You wish.”  You replied, with a playful smile on your face, glad for his company and his humor.

___________________________________

You and Leon chatted and joked along the way to the venue. You also briefed him on a few bits of family lore.Leon knew as much about your family as the others did. You were the only girl in the family and you were the youngest.Both of your parents came from well to do families and your own parents had made a fair amount of money themselves. So you grew up pretty comfortably. From what you had mentioned you got along with most of the family, though due to your work, they knew very little about your life.Though Leon seemed relaxed, inside he was anxious.Fake relationship or not, this was still your family and he wanted to make a good impression.

Just outside the chapel, you spotted your parents, along with some other relatives and guests. Upon seeing them you waved and mentally prepared yourself. 

"(Y/n!) There you are!" Your mother called out. 

You smiled at her and led Leon over. Leon hoped he looked good enough to impress your parents, both of whom were dressed to the nines. 

Upon reaching your parents, you greeted both of them warmly, glad to see that they were both looking well. They in turn hugged you tightly, thrilled to see you. 

Leon stood to the side and waited patiently. Though he was glad to see such warmth between you and your family, he couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness, knowing that what you had with your parents was something he didn't and would never have.

“We didn't know if you’d be able to make it” Your mom said as she let go of you, knowing that work often called you in.

“I wasn't too sure either. But I'm glad we did.” You said, feeling a tad guilty for all the events you had missed over the years. Remembering Leon, you gestured for him to come closer. As you took his hand in yours, lacing your fingers with his, the both of you felt your hearts leap up into your throats. 

“Mom, Dad, I’d like you to meet my boyfriend,Leon Kennedy.”

Several people near you, upon hearing Leon’s name turned and stared. Quickly people began whispering and wondering how it was that you knew the man who had rescued President Graham's daughter.

Leon quickly turned on the charm as he shook everyone's hands. He turned it on so much he even had your mom a bit flustered. After you introduced him to some more of your family, you led Leon inside the chapel. The both of you were taken aback by the amount of decorations. Along with very tall aisle pieces made of turquoise and white flowers and ribbons, there were streamers everywhere, decorative banners, a satin floor runner. At the altar, there was an archway with even more flowers.

"Is this a wedding or a coronation?" Leon joked as the two of you walked up the aisle towards the front where you would be sitting.

"I said the same thing when mom showed me the designs. My soon to be sister in law does interior decorating for some very A-list people. So needless to say, she has a reputation to maintain."

“Would you want something like this?” Leon asked.

“What do you mean?”

“Would you want a wedding like this?” Leon asked, curious in more ways than one.”

“It's quite nice I admit, but it seems like a lot of work.” You said. “Plus with my schedule, I'd have to pay someone to plan it for me. That or do a courthouse wedding.”

“What about eloping?” 

“I'd never hear the end of it.” You muttered, not wanting to think of your parents' reaction if you were to do that.

The two of you found the pews designated for your family. Sitting down, you and Leon chatted while you waited for the wedding to start. Some of your other family members and family friends came up to say hello. You introduced Leon to all of them, and no matter how many times he heard you refer to him as your boyfriend, it still made him feel wonderful and it made him wish it was for real.  

Though most who came up to say hello were polite, a few of your relatives were a tad snarky. You even overheard one say “So she decided to grace us with her presence.” You rolled your eyes hearing that. Some of your relatives didn't get that sometimes, work had to come first. You were used to it.While you said nothing, Leon turned and shot them a glare that quickly shut them up.

Finally it was time for the ceremony. Your brother and the rest of the groomsmen filed in first. All of them looked dapper in their black suits. Your brother looked like a bundle of nerves. He spotted you and Leon and gave you both a smile,glad to see that you had made it.

Soft organ music began to play, during which the flower girls came down the aisle. Shortly after, the bridesmaids, all of them members of your sister in laws sorority, began to file in. All of them wore strapless turquoise floor length dresses and had matching hairstyles. They all looked gorgeous and they knew it.

Seeing the bridesmaids dresses made you adjust the shoulder of your own dress. Leon quickly noticed this. He knew that wound was still a sore spot for you in more ways than one. He rubbed your back gently to reassure you, for which you gave him a gentle smile in thanks.

As the organ played the first few notes to the traditional "Here Comes the Bride." The entire crowd stood up  and looked to the end of the aisle. Your soon to be sister in law slowly walked down, escorted by her father. She looked like a fairy tale princess in her designer wedding gown. You glanced back over to your brother, who teared up seeing his soon to be bride walking towards him. 

As the crowd sat back down, in order to help sell things, Leon put an arm around your shoulder. Thinking you might as well go along with it, you leaned into him. It surprised you how good it felt to be in his arms. 

The ceremony was a beautiful one. Both the bride and your brother teared up as they said their vows. You had never seen your brother look so happy before, and as happy as you were for him, you felt the slightest tinge of sadness. 

Glancing a bit at the other guests, it amazed you how easy it was for them to enjoy the ceremony, how easy it was for them to enjoy the mundane.You felt an immense amount of envy. Due to several tours overseas, plus your work with STRATCOM, you had long since stopped viewing the world with the same rose colored glasses as your family and the others. As much as they claimed they understood what you had been through, you knew they didn't. There was so much you hadn't told them, and would probably never tell them. 

For one, you would probably never tell them the truth about your shoulder wound or the other wounds for that matter. You had told your family that they were the result of a car accident. You didn't dare tell them it was from fighting a mutated scientist, a scientist that you had served with on your first tour. A scientist that by the time you found him, resembled a Lovecraftian monster more than a human. It was hard to look at your scars in the mirror and not think back to it. 

 “You ok?”

That quickly got your attention. You looked at Leon and saw that he had a rather concerned expression on his face. As you came back to your senses, you noticed that your body had tensed up.

You looked at him and with a pained smile, nodded that you were. Leon sensed it was the opposite, and held you a bit tighter. He knew you well enough to know that look meant that your mind had gone to a dark place. Leon pulled you in closer, and kissed the top of your head, whispering “I've got you.”

Tears welled up in your eyes. Quickly you wiped them away and gave Leon a quick kiss on the cheek, thinking that it would help to show the others that nothing was wrong. Leon held tight to you for the rest of the ceremony, allowing you to center yourself and to enjoy things just a bit.

After the ceremony, the bridal party spent about an hour taking pictures, of which you got dragged into a few. Once those were done, everyone headed into the reception hall to wait for the couple. You and Leon stayed close together and chatted with some of the other guests. The longer things went on, the easier it was for you to play your part. Before long, you nearly forgot that you were playing a part.

A short time later, your brother and his new bride finally entered and the reception truly started. After toasts were made, dinner finally started.You and Leon were seated at a table with several other relatives and their partners. Just as before, Leon charmed all of them.

When it came time for the first dance, everyone got up to watch your brother and his new wife dance to Elvis Presley’s “Can't Help Falling in Love with You.” After the song was over, the DJ cued up another love song, where several couples started to take to the floor. Leon looked at you with that sweet smile of his and offered you his hand. 

Thinking you might as well, you took it and let him lead you onto the dancefloor. He twirled you around and pulled you in close. You smiled brightly as he took the lead, surprised to learn that he was quite a good dancer.

You thought that the two of you might dance to just a few songs and then go sit back down. To your surprise, Leon kept wanting to dance. Since he was up for it and you wanted to stay close to him, you went along with it and soon lost yourself in the music.You two danced to everything from “Safety Dance “ from “Men Without Hats.” to “Harder, Better, Faster” By Daft Punk. It was the most carefree you had felt in a long time.

Not all the songs were upbeat. There was a smattering of love songs as well, songs that allowed couples the chance to slow down a bit and others the chance to take a break. You thought that Leon might want a break during those songs, but to your surprise, he pulled you closer in during those songs, keeping his admittedly beautiful eyes on you the whole time. 

While you and Leon were busy dancing, almost all your family were keeping a close eye on you and Leon. What was most startling to them was the smile on your face, a smile they had never seen before. It was one full of life, of unbridled joy. You laughed freely and more often.  And it was caused by the man who you had brought with you.Before you knew it, the two of you had spent most of the reception on the dance floor.  

After awhile you needed a break and a drink and you said as much to Leon.While you left the dance floor to speak to a family friend. Leon headed to the bar, where he ordered a whiskey neat for himself and a gin and tonic for you.

While Leon waited for the bartender to make the drinks, he noticed your father coming up to get a few himself. Leon gave him a small smile and greeting.

 “I can tell you mean the world to her.You are the first person she has ever brought home to meet us.” Your father said.

“I feel honored, Sir.” Leon said with a wide smile, meaning it. 

“Has she told you much about us?”

“She has.”

“Did she tell you about my 45 x 45 warning?”

“You have a .45 and 45 acres of land in which you can bury a body.”  Leon replied, remembering it from earlier in the day from your lore dump.

Your father smiled at the fact that you had warned Leon about that already. It was a warning he had given several times before and so far had never had to carry it out.

It was then that the bartender handed Leon the drinks. Taking them in his hands, he saw that your father now had a few more in his. Your father turned to look at you, still chatting with others.

"She can't fool us. We know she does things that most couldn't or wouldn't do, no matter what she says.I know she can take care of herself, but we still worry about her.” Your father admitted, still watching you and the others.

“I’d think any parent would worry no matter what.” Leon said. It made him think back to his own family and the rough start he had. He still wondered if they would have been proud of who he grew up to be. 

“Just promise me one thing, Kennedy.Be good to my daughter. She’s been through enough as it is.”

“I fully intend to, Sir.” Leon said, meaning it. With a nod, Leon walked back over to you.Upon arriving, he quickly handed you your drink of which you took eagerly.

“Thank you.” You said, before quickly downing a good portion of it. You were so warm, you began fanning yourself. Soon you felt your energy plummeting. Soon the music that had been enjoyable before was becoming way too much. There were too many people, there was too much noise.

“I need some air.” You said, a bit of a pleading tone in your voice.

Leon nodded, took your hand and led you through the dance floor.  Nearby was a set of double doors that led to a long patio area. Looking around, you saw that no one was there, so you and Leon could have a moment to yourselves.

The two of you found some empty adirondack chairs nearby. After parking yourself in one, you leaned back and glanced up at the night sky. It was a gorgeous night, with a warm breeze, a full moon and the sky littered with stars.

You sighed, contentedly, glad to be off your feet, glad to be away from the crowds, glad for the view in the night sky and most of all, glad for the man next to you.

Leon breathed deeply and glanced skyward. Though he was having a lot of fun too, he was glad for the break as well. Especially since it meant he could be alone with you.

“Better?” He asked tenderly.

“Much better. I admit, I didn't expect to do this much dancing tonight.” You said, your tiredness coming through your voice, your head still spinning a bit.

“Me either.” Leon said, feeling a bit of soreness start to creep in as well.

"I saw you talking to my dad. He didn't give you any guff did he?"

"No. But he did tell me something interesting."

"What's that?"

"That I'm the first person you've ever brought home to meet them."

“That is true.” 

“Can I ask why you haven't brought home anyone?"

“Previous relationships didn't last long enough to get to that stage. That and I told myself years ago I wouldn't bring someone home unless I wanted to marry them.But things changed. "

“ What changed?” Leon asked.

" Most people don't want to marry a workaholic like me. Even fewer want to marry someone who works in our field. So, yeah, I've pretty much given up on finding someone. For now anyways. " You explained, feeling a bit sad as you recalled how so many relationships fell apart before they could really get off the ground. So many didn't get why you would want to throw yourself into such dangerous work. Work that you had to constantly keep a secret. It wore at you more than you could say and having little support did not help. The only real support you had were your co-workers, especially Leon. If you were honest, if it wasn't for him, you didn't know where you would be now.

Leon felt his heart sink. He had no idea that you had all but given up. Even though he had since pushed aside many things since Raccoon City, that didnt mean he had pushed everything aside. Especially since he had met you, someone who had given him reason to have hope still. He found himself wanting to spill everything he felt about you in the hopes that you wouldn't give up. He nearly did, but he stopped himself, not wanting to burden you further.

“Maybe you already have found someone and you don't know it yet.” He said, his words both having a bit of sadness and a bit of longing in them. To make his point more, he took your hand and squeezed it tightly.

“I hope you are right.” You said, meaning it.

The two of you remained outside for a bit, chatting quietly. You might have stayed a bit longer, until someone came outside and spotted the two of you. It was one of your cousins. 

“They are about to do the bouquet toss.”

You groaned a bit at that. Fighting over some fake flowers didn't really appeal to you. Especially since you knew that most of the bridesmaids had beaux that they were eager to get a proposal out of and they were bound to not want to play nice about it.

“Do I have to?” You asked aloud.

“I’ll do the garter toss if you do the bouquet toss.” Leon said, looking at you.

“Fair. Let's do this.” You sighed, getting up and following your cousin inside. With all the bridesmaids and other single women at the wedding, the group was rather large. You decided to hang a good distance back from the group, thinking there was no way that the bouquet would make that far.Leon watched from nearby, ready to jump in and pull you out if it became a big mess.

The DJ cued up Beyonce’s "Single Ladies". All the girls in front of you were eagerly awaiting their chance, all of them determined to get it. Your sister in law took her place, looked over her shoulder once and let the bouquet loose. It sailed high, clearing the group easily. 

As you looked up, your stomach dropped when you realized it was heading straight for you. Thinking you might as well take it, you raised a hand and grabbed it. The group turned around to look at you, flabbergasted that you had been the one to catch it. You knew you could just toss it to one of them. Glancing over at Leon, he gave you a very playful smile. Seeing that made you decide to keep it.

Next was the garter toss. Most of the guys in the group were not as enthusiastic as their counterparts. Leon positioned himself towards the front. The DJ played a bit of a raunchy tune while your brother kneeled down and went after the bride's garter.Once he had it, he held it up and launched it. As it neared the group, Leon reached up and grabbed it. No one sought to fight him over it.

Twirling it around his finger, he walked over to you, still holding the bouquet. Aware that most of the party was watching the two of you, Leon went in and pulled you in for a hug. He went to give you a kiss on the cheek, as did you, but as Leon moved, a drunken guest bumped into him, causing Leon to miss and to find your soft lips instead.

There might have been cheers from the others. There might have been applause from others around you, but neither you nor Leon heard them. For all that the two of you knew, Time itself had stopped in its tracks and all that existed was just you and him. It was only a few seconds to everyone else, but to you and Leon it might as well have been an eternity. It would have gone on for an eternity if someone hadn't bumped into the two of you. 

With the kiss broken, you swallowed hard, your heart still pounding. You looked to see who bumped into you, but all you saw were the other guests starting to get up and head towards the door, signaling that your brother and your new sister in law were heading out. You and Leon followed suit, not looking at each other, still somewhat in shock over what happened.

As the newlyweds headed towards the limo, many of the guests threw rice. You and Leon put on big smiles as you waved them off, both of you still feeling a bit warm from the kiss. Once they got in and drove off, the crowd remained a few more minutes before they started going back inside. 

Soon, only you and Leon remained on the steps, not sure what to do next.

“Wanna go get something to eat? Think I danced off dinner.” Leon suggested, having had his fill and eager to just be with you.

“Sure. Let’s go.” 

Not far from the hotel, the two of you found a pizza place still open. All the way there and while eating, Leon did most of the talking, cracking his usual jokes. It helped to soothe your nerves a bit. Though you chatted with him as if it was any other occasion, your thoughts were still on the kiss.

Though the kiss hadn't been planned, that didn't mean that it wasn't wanted. You had wondered before what it might be like to cross that line with Leon, but you hadn't brought it up before. Just because the two of you got along well as friends didn't mean you would as lovers. As time went on you waited for Leon to say something about the kiss, but he didn't. Perhaps it was for the best to just pretend that it was nothing more than an accidental kiss between friends.

The two of you left the pizza parlor just before closing and wandered back to the hotel, still talking and joking with each other. Though you kept it light, you felt your heart start to race a bit the closer you got to the room. Your hands shook a bit as you fumbled for the key card.

Upon walking into the room, you sat the bouquet down on a nearby table and went to take your shoes off.Leon then removed his suit jacket and started removing his tie.  You worked hard to keep your eyes off of him while you gathered up your things so you could change in the bathroom.

It was then that you remembered something. You recalled earlier in the day how you had needed Leon’s assistance in zipping up your dress. You reached behind you and realized you would need help again.Before you could say anything, Leon walked up behind you and said, “Allow me.”  Your breath hitched as you felt Leon’s fingertips brush along your back as he unzipped you a bit. 

“Thanks.” You managed to say in a slightly strangled tone. Not looking at him, you quickly hurried into the bathroom and closed the door. Breathing heavily, you leaned against it, your heart racing once again.

To make matters worse, you heard your phone notifications go off. Taking out your phone you opened one of your social media apps and saw that you had been tagged in a post. Clicking on it, you saw that you and several others had been tagged in a bunch of photos. Quickly you went through them. A few of them were shots of you and Leon dancing, harmless enough. You started to relax a bit until you got to the last one: a shot of you and Leon kissing.

You felt a swirl of emotions looking at the photo. With your eyes closed, with how closely and tenderly Leon held you, no one would have guessed that the two of you were just friends and that the kiss had been an accident. It made you somewhat regret having Leon as your date. It also made you wish that the kiss hadn't been an accident. Now as it was, the two of you were going to have to go back to work in a few days as if nothing had happened.

You sighed, frustrated at the whole matter. You didn't know what to do. The fact that you didn't know what to do made you feel worse. Here you were, a decorated veteran in a top position in STRATCOM and here you were feeling like a lovesick teenager.

You didn't know how to move forward, but what you did know is that you needed someone to talk to. Someone who would be sympathetic and yet tell you what you needed to hear.You grabbed your phone and called the one person you knew who could help you.

“Hunnigan here.” Came an answer after a few rings.

“Hey, do you have a minute?” You said, in a low voice.

“Yes, and why are you whispering?” Hunnigan asked, quickly concerned by your tone.

“How many bodies?” Hunnigan joked.

“I need some help”

“None, and not that kind of help.”

“Okay, what's going on?”

You quickly filled her in on the situation with the room and with you kissing Leon. Or at least as quickly as you could with your nerves continuing to fray. 

“So, now you are worried about having to share the bed after kissing him?” 

“Yes.”

“What are you worried about? That you might end up kissing him again?” 

You paused for a moment, unsure of what to say.

“Maybe…” You admitted, thinking back to how wonderful it was to kiss him.

“Has he said anything about it or tried to kiss you again?”

“No. We haven't talked about it. For all I know he wants to pretend like it didn't happen.”

“I can try and see about calling him in on a mission. But I can't promise results.”

You seriously considered her offer. It would certainly make it easier. But you knew there was a chance that she wouldn't be able to come up with someone. Worse, what if word got back to Leon that you had called something like this in. He didn't deserve that, especially since he hadn't done anything wrong.

“No..it's okay.” You said, accepting your fate.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. It's just one night.”

“Okay, but if he tries anything foolish, let me know. I have a few favors I can call in.

“Thanks. Bye.” 

As Hunnigan ended the call, a thoughtful look came over her face. She had heard earlier in the day rumors about a pool going around the office, a pool that involved you and Leon. Perhaps she should have said something, but thought it wasn't the right time. After all, you were already stressed out about it, why add to it?

You sighed deeply as you sat your phone back down on the sink. Looking in the mirror, you decided to go ahead and get ready for bed. After removing your makeup and fixing your hair, you reached behind you and finished unzipping your dress, all the while remembering the feeling of Leon’s touch as he had unzipped you enough to allow you to finish on your own. Was it too late to ask him to come in and finish things for you? 

After carefully folding up your dress, you put on your pajamas; a deep red cami and short set. The moment you put it on, you instantly regretted your choice. While comfortable it was a bit form hugging and you wished you had brought something less revealing. Especially since now, your scars were visible. But the only other options were your traveling clothes. 

Gathering up your phone and your reception clothes, you left the bathroom and shut the light off. Leon was sitting on the edge of the bed, clad in just a black pair of sleep pants. Seeing his sculpted form made you feel a tad hot inside and made you want to mount him there.

“I’ll take the left.” You said as you went to put your things away. As you got to the bed, you plugged in your phone and climbed in. Leon did the same and dimmed a few of the lights before he climbed in. Somehow he seemed both too close to you and not close enough.

He quickly noticed you and gave you a shy smile. “What side do you want?”

Leon grabbed the remote and turned the tv on. “How about a movie?” He asked, thinking it would be the best way to wind down. You quickly agreed. After a few minutes of searching, the two of you settled on something light “The Devil Wears Prada.”

As you got comfortable, thoughts about the photo were in the back of your mind. You knew you should say something to Leon, after all, word was bound to get out, but you were completely exhausted and all you wanted to do was just watch a good movie and not think of anything else. You could always address it tomorrow.

Though he enjoyed the film, Leon’s thoughts were of you and of the night's events. He hadn't said anything about it but he couldn't get the kiss from earlier out of his mind. While he had imagined what it might be like to kiss you before, he hadn't imagined it would happen like it did. Though it wasn't planned, he didn't regret it and he hoped you didn't either. And he certainly wouldn't say no to another kiss. Or more than a kiss. 

In less than an hour, the both of you were sound asleep, with you drifting off first. The day’s events, while for the most part enjoyable, caught up with you and left you drained in several ways. It was so good to put your feet up,close your eyes and dream about a friend in a way that surpassed friendship.

_______________________________________

A rather loud clap of thunder awoke you from a deep sleep. Through blurry eyes you turned your head and looked towards the window to see a large flash of lighting. Soon you became aware of the sounds of heavy rainfall. “Just a storm.” 

Blinking your eyes a bit, you saw that the lights and the tv were still on. Whats more, “The Devil Wears Prada” was long over and now, something a bit more adult was showing.

You felt warm. You felt something wrapped around you. You looked down and saw that you and Leon were in the middle of the bed, wrapped up in each other, with your leg wrapped around his waist and his face nuzzled in your chest. 

You froze, unsure of whether to move to shut the lights off and risk waking him up, or just lay there until he moved on his own. But that could be awhile, you had seen Leon nap enough to know that he didn't move much in his sleep.  Making it worse, or better was the fact that despite it, you felt rather comfortable. Hell, the two of you had kissed earlier, what was a bit of cuddling between the two of you. Friends cuddled..surely they did.

A second, even louder crack of thunder stirred Leon from his slumber and startled you. Leon brought up a hand, rubbed the sleep from his eyes and quickly realized that right in front of him was your chest. What's more, he felt you moving away from him. 

“Wait…” He said, glancing up at your startled face. His voice dropped to a very alluring tone.“You don't have to move if you don't want to.” Both his words and his tone sent shivers of delight through you. 

As you looked him up and down, you bit your lip, feeling a bit aroused. That feeling only grew when Leon made a gesture, beckoning to you to come closer. Before you knew it, you were in his arms again. Leon gently put your leg around his waist, pulled you a bit closer and brushed a few errant strands of hair away from your face.

“Much better.” He murmured as he stared deeply into your eyes, marveling at how they were even more beautiful up close and marveling at how wonderful it felt to be holding you like this after so long.

“And here I thought you would freak out..” You said, your voice low and tinged with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

“Freak out at waking up to you? Never.” He said, feeling the urge to pull you even closer, especially so you might feel what exactly you did to him. “You mind waking up to me?”

“No. Not at all.” You admitted, your nervousness ebbing away, replaced with a growing need to just mount him right there. 

With that, Leon pulled you even closer, so close you could feel his arousal against you. Now your faces were so close, they were practically touching.

Briefly you glanced down and asked in a teasing tone “What’s all that about?”

“What, this?” He said with a playful grin as he took your hand and placed it over his thick bulge, biting his lip as he felt you run your hand up and down his shaft. Even through the fabric, you could feel him pulsing with arousal. 

“That’s all you.”

“Is it now?”

“Oh yes.” He said, hoping you would slide your hand inside and stroke him properly.

“Do I make you hard often?” You asked, very curious as you moved your hand up to the waistband of his trousers. 

“Quiet often.” Leon said, his voice even lower as he felt your hand move. He hissed and shuddered as he felt your hand go inside and grab a hold of him. He closed his eyes for a moment and delighted in the exquisite sensation of you stroking his dick.

You licked your lips watching him delight in your touch. What’s more was he was longer and thicker than you had imagined him to be. You ached to just simply strip your clothes off and guide him inside you, let him feel how wet he had made you.

Leon pressed his forehead to yours as he moved his hand from your leg and guided it to your opening. He rubbed your center through the fabric, pleased at how wet you were. He then raised his hand and slid it down between your shorts and your panties. As he reached your lips and your clit, he slid his fingers between them, letting his thumb rub over your swollen bud.

Your breath quickly shortened as you felt his hands move over you. You swore the moment you felt him start to rub your clit, pushing gently on it and around it. It felt so good that you slowed down your movements with Leon’s cock. 

“Keep going.” He murmured, both an order and a plea. You swallowed hard and did your best to focus on rubbing his throbbing cock harder, while Leon did his best to make you moan and whimper with just his fingers.

The both of you were immensely hot. As best as he could, Leon kicked the covers off the two of you. His eyes ran over your night clothes, wondering how quickly he could get them off of you. He delighted in seeing your hard nipples through the fabric and eagerly wanted to take them in his mouth. 

Leon kissed you hard, his tongue quickly rolling over yours, making you moan into his mouth. His hand still between your legs, he bit and pulled on your lower lip. To his delight you quickly mirrored his actions, each of you moaning and whimpering as the other tried to come out on top. 

Leon then moved away from your mouth and down your neck, laying several passionate kisses along your tender skin. As he got to your shoulder, he saw portions of your scars, your scars that you tried so hard to hide. He eagerly laid more kisses along them before he moved down to your nipples. He wanted to run a hand up your night shirt, but it would mean that he would have to stop fingering you and the moans you were making made him never want to stop pleasuring you.

You shuddered with pleasure feeling his mouth all over you. It was making it harder to concentrate on making him come. You didn't know if you wanted him to come on you or inside you.

Leon had enough of his night clothes and yours. Though he didn't want to stop fingering you, his clothes needed to come off. He removed his hand from inside you and got off the bed. You watched in a lust filled daze as he walked over to his bag, where he quickly, from a side pocket, fished out a condom. He quickly shed his sleep pants, put the condom on,rejoined you on the bed and climbed in between your legs. 

With a devious smile on his face that matched yours, Leon brought his hands up to the waistband of your shorts. He very swiftly pulled them off and tossed them over his shoulder. Your legs still up and now resting on Leon’s shoulders, he went back and forth between them, laying numerous kisses along your skin. 

When he got to your hips, with your sleep shirt still on, he pushed up the hem of the fabric and laid even more kisses along your hips .Though Leon knew about your scars, you still felt the need to keep your top on. No one besides you had seen all of them. 

Leon then wrapped your legs around his hips and moved in closer. The deep, throaty moan you made when he slid himself all in way in you made him throb hard.Leon placed his hands on either side of you, slowly thrusting at first to let you get a good feel for him. He enjoyed the feeling of you running your hands over his arms and his chest. He was so touch starved he felt he might cum just from your hands alone.

 Eager for another kiss, he lowered his mouth to yours and kissed you passionately. He slid his forearms under you and started thrusting harder. You ran your fingers through his hair, down his neck and to his back. As you brought them back up, a very pleasurable thrust made you dig your nails into him. Leon gasped with pleasure feeling the brief, sharp pain.

“Do that again.” He murmured between more kisses. You quickly obliged him, enjoying just how loudly he moaned for you.

“Didnt know you liked that.” You said, surprised.

“Only when you do it.” Leon said. He hadnt imagined before that he would ever enjoy such a thing.

A devious smile crossed your lips. You brought your hands to Leon’s lower back and dug slightly in. Leon gasped and bit his lip as you did so. 

“Deeper.” You quickly obliged, dragging your nails down and towards the front. His shuddering made you even more wet. Curious, you brought your nails up to his arms and dragged them down. Leon nearly lost his composure as you did so. He then raised himself up, took your right hand and placed it on his chest. You quickly obliged him, leaving bright red scratches in your wake.

“Let me up and I’ll mark more of you.” You asked, eager to make him a total mess.

“Promise to ride me hard as you do so?”

You quickly nodded and let Leon flip the two of you over. So fluid were his movements you were briefly stunned. Looking down, seeing Leon below you, he grabbed a hold of the headboard behind him. 

You placed your hands on his chest, fingers slightly bent. You rolled your hips just a bit as you guided your nails down Leon’s chest and over his stomach. He quivered as they went further down, making him grip the headboard tightly. Quickly you started riding him, still running your nails along his skin, finding a good rhythm that immensely pleased the both of you. Strong waves of pleasure rocked through you the faster you moved, making you dig your nails even deeper into Leon’s toned flesh.

You placed your left hand on the headboard to help steady yourself. You then placed your right hand on his throat, digging just a bit into it before moving it down. You took a breath and quickly and deeply dragged your nails back down Leon’s chest, making him curse as you did so.

“Again.” He pleaded through gasping breaths. You scratched him again, this time deeper than before. Leon arched his back in pleasure, even more aroused than before.

“Keep going.”

You rolled your hips as hard and fast as you could, still obliging Leon’s pleas. You ran your nails over his chest and stomach as much as you could. You stopped only to leave kisses along the marks. Kisses than Leon found just as pleasurable as the scratches.

Now you were feeling immensely hot, so hot that if you didnt take your top off, you might faint. But then he would see the scars in all their glory. As if reading your thoughts, Leon let go of the headboard and started running his hands under your top. You moaned deeply as his hands found your breasts and began to massage them. 

“Take it off?”

“But..”

“They dont bother me.”

Thinking you might as well, you slowly slid it off and tossed it to the side, anxious to know Leon’s reaction. Leon grabbed a hold of you and brought you closer to him. His lips quickly found your nipples. He eagerly sucked on each one before he started moving his way up. He started laying even more kisses along your scars, holding on tightly as you whimpered at his movements.

“So beautiful.” He murmured between kisses as he worked his way up your neck and to your mouth. No longer worried, you kept rolling your hips, pushing you and him further and further to climaxing.

Leon flipped you onto your back again, and thrust into you even harder and faster than before. His lips didn't leave yours as you came first, nor did he let up even when he came, harder than he had in a long time. He didn't let up until he started to go soft while still inside you.

When he did stop, he propped himself up a bit. He gently stroked your face as you worked to catch your breath. Once he had gone soft, he finally pulled himself out of you and laid down next to you.

Both of you were covered in sweat, so much so you thought about going to take a quick shower. But you were so comfortable, you didn't wish to move. Neither did Leon. Though neither of you spoke for a moment or two, both of you were quite content.

“I needed that.” You admitted, still gasping a bit.

“Same.” Leon said, his focus on the ceiling. 

“It's been way too long.”

“How long?”

“Since before I got these.” You said, referring to your scars.

“Scars dont bother me. Never have.” Leon said as he turned to face you again. He quickly started leaving more kisses along them, making you giggle a bit and making you aroused all over again.

“Leon?”

“Yeah..” He asked, his face now buried in your neck.

“How many condoms did you bring with you?”

“Several..why..”

Leon raised himself up and saw the sinful look on your face. He eagerly got off the bed to grab the rest, hoping that each one would get to be used.

________________________________________

At about 8 am, your alarm on your phone went off. You groaned hearing it and blindly reached over to turn it off. In doing so you knocked your phone to the floor. You shrugged, thinking you would pick it up later. Right now, you were too busy enjoying being held by Leon. Surely a bit more sleep wouldn't hurt.

It was then that Leon’s own alarm went off. Leon groaned and laid still for a few seconds, willing the alarm to shut off so he didnt have to let go of you. When that wasnt going to happen, he sat up, turned and grabbed his phone, shutting off the alarm.

You sat up and rubbed your eyes. Though you had slept very well, you could easily go back to bed and stay in bed all day. Glancing at Leon, you sensed that he could easily do the same.

“How is it morning already?” You asked rhetorically.

“Good question.” Leon said,yawning.”

You thought back to the events of yesterday and last night. It had been a wonderful time overall, but now, it was over. Soon it would be back to everyday life. Soon you and Leon would be back to being just friends. 

Leon turned, grabbed you and pulled you back onto the bed, surprising you. 

“Leon, we can't stay in bed.” You said, suppressing a giggle.

“Who says?” He replied, pulling you close. He knew what you meant but he wanted a few more minutes alone with you like this before things had to go back to the way they were. Which at the moment was the last thing he wanted.

Both of you knew it needed to be discussed. Only question was, when? If you discussed it now and it didn't go well, it would mean an uncomfortable train ride back. If it waited, it would mean an uncomfortable train ride back. As much as you were scared to face it, it was better to get it over with now.

“Leon?”

“Hmm?”

“About last night?”

“Yes…” He asked, a bit nervous as to what you might say next.

“It was a lot of fun…” 

“And..”

“I’d like to keep it going.”

Leon couldnt believe what he was hearing. “You want it to not be a fake relationship?”

You nodded. Leon smiled and pulled you in for a kiss. Which led to another, then another. The next thing you knew, the two of you were intimate again and by the time you were done, you and Leon were left with just over an hour left to get ready and head downstairs.

About 9;15,after taking one last cursory look at the room, you and Leon grabbed your luggage and headed down to the lobby for a bit of breakfast. In the dining area, you saw several of your relatives and other guests from the wedding, many of whom gave only cursory nods due to being massively hung over from the night before. You and Leon could only chuckle lightly seeing them look so rough.

 A few hours later,stepping onto the train, you and Leon quickly found your seats. Stowing your luggage in the racks above, you and Leon sat down, with Leon sitting by the window. Knowing it would be a long ride again, you pulled out your ipad and set it up to watch some more shows.