rusted iron

It can’t be that bad– seriously?

“I know.” He made the same mistake of underestimation with Tony before they first met. Steve examined Gabriela’s awareness with wandering eyes when it came to emotions silently, watching her check before revealing a vulnerable side in a way that often reminded him of Tony. A quality that was as enduring as it was painful. “If what’s real? Us? Me?” The self-doubt caught Steve by surprise that it took everything in him not to reach out and pull her in for a hug. He didn’t want to give physical contact where it might not be welcome. “Gabi,” That didn’t stop him from taking a few steps closer before reaching into the pocket of his khakis and feeling the cool metal chain press against his fingers as he pulled out his old war dog tags. It was meant to be a gift for the wedding reception, but he couldn’t see a better time than now. “Look at me. If you ever feel like you’re losing yourself or you just…need a a solid ground for this reality. Tony and I, Bruce, Nat, your teammates,” He held it out towards Gabi, the tags laying flat on his palm, “Here’s your reminder.”

I don’t think you want someone punching me, Gabi– I don’t think anyone brought their winter coats to this.

Then I guess you’re going to have to follow me around and make sure no one touches me.

Steve reached up and rubbed at his lower lip with his index finger thoughtfully, taking the time and patience to remain silent as a sign of attentive respect. He wasn’t about to ignore her pain even if she was intent on doing so herself. “I’ve seen this world on the cusp of ending before, Gabi, long before the battle of New York. I know they’re capable of cracking the planet in two, I’ve seen the footage.” He sighed with a slight shake of his head, “If our roles were reversed and it was you in Wanda’s place, Tony and I wouldn’t lay down and give in. That only comes from a father’s love.”

Do you need me to stand by you and glare anyone away? I find that it’s particularly effective in social events.

“I’m not just talking about the engagement.” Steve firmly pressed his lips together in a way that made him feel like a stern grandfather. Or a father, in Gabi’s case. “You barely said two words about the mission when we got back.”

I think you could be if it was the right color.

“One never hurts.” Steve plucked a champagne flute from a passing server’s tray and held it out to Gabi, “About that, I,” He didn’t know how to put the thought into words, “I wanted to know how you were doing with…all of it.”

America’s darling. On top of that, you have every avenger as a family member.

I don’t know whose flask this is, but it’s mine now.

If someone else bumps into me, I swear to God I’ll throw them over the balcony.

Do not let your father or Banner hear that– I will not hear the end of their complaints now that I have taken their title of Smartest Avenger.

You mean you don’t want to wear a frilly dress with pigtails in your hair?

Just how many times were you asked that at this party alone?

No, but you are going to be Captain America’s step-daughter. Nobody else can say that.

Well, no. He says a small get-together and I imagine close friends.

Can I get you something to drink?