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dbnightingale24 · 2 years

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Paws of Attraction

Steve Rogers One Shot

This is probably the fluffiest thing I’ve ever written lol. This is for one of the absolute people I know, @fuckingbye. I hope this sappy little love story put a smile on your face and holds you over until the next time I can give you a hug that’s entirely too tight ❤️.

I made this moodboard and that’s why it sucks so much lol.

Word Count: 36,934

Warnings: FLUFF, anxiety, swearing, drinking, flirting, small arguments, smut, longing, MINORS DNI...I actually think that’s it?

Song(s) That Inspired This Playlist: Oh look, I made another playlist.

Summary: You’re just trying to get through the last bit of your day, which will be easy because your last customer is your favorite customer. However, when his actual owner drops you off, it throws you for a loop that you would’ve never expected.

I do not consent to have any of my works/ stories posted elsewhere.

Steve sits in his apartment at the compound and looks out the window. It’s been almost a week since he was forced to take a break from work, and he was really starting to lose his mind with all the free time. He knew the break was well earned and needed, but that doesn’t mean he wants it.

“Hey Cap, when’s the last time you took some time off?” Tony Stark called out to him after the team meeting came to an end.

“Not sure, Stark. Wherever there’s action, that’s where you’ll find me.”

“What about that Golden Retriever of yours? Clyde?”

“What about him?”

“You’ve had him for like, over a year. I never see him. Do you even spend time with him?”

“I spend a lot of time with him, Stark,” Steve snapped.

“Listen, we’ve all noticed how irritable you are and you barely rest. You can’t keep living from mission to mission, Cap. You’re off for the next three weeks.”

“I don’t want a break, Tony-”

“Not optional, Steve. You need rest,” Tony stated firmly.

“Tony-”

“Three weeks, Cap,” Tony called over his shoulder as he walked away. “Keep it up and I’ll make it a whole month. Maybe take your dog for a walk? Better yet, why not try going on a date? Can’t remember the last time I saw you with a special someone,” he shrugged, not even bothering looking back.

Since that that talk, Steve has been holed up in his apartment with Clyde. He takes him for walks, and they play during the early mornings in the park. They mainly lounge around in the compound, mostly because Steve doesn’t know what the hell to do. Since he and Sharon broke up a few years ago, Steve’s been using all of his free time to train and prep for battle. When he isn’t doing that, he plays with Clyde for a few hours before making them both dinner and watching classic movies with him on the sofa.

He always arranges for someone to take Clyde to get groomed, in fear of being hounded by fans and paparazzi. He dreads seeing some stupid headline that would read something along the lines of ‘America’s Dog’ or something painfully moronic of that nature. He likes the parts of his life that aren’t in the Avengers to remain private.

It’s part of what caused his breakup with Sharon.

“Sharon, I told you!” Steve snapped, throwing his suit jacket down onto their bed. “I don’t want our relationship to be some big spectacle! It’s the two of us! Not you, me, and everyone else who wants to know what kind of furniture we like!”

“It’s good for your image! People can see you as someone besides Captain America!”

“I don’t care how people see me! I care how you see me and that’s it!”

“Steve-”

“No Sharon. Stop setting up these pictures or I’m done.”

“Are you giving me an ultimatum?”

“You tell me.”

He ended up breaking up with her a week later.

Steve scowls at the memory before looking over at Clyde, who’s looking directly at him from the comfort of his dog bed.

‘He probably thinks I got fired’ Steve thinks.

There’s a soft knock on his door and he rolls his eyes, already knowing who it is. “What Nat?” he mutters unenthusiastically.

“When are you going to stop being mad at all of us?” she sighs, leaning against the door frame.

“When this stupid house arrest is over.”

“Stop being so fucking dramatic, Steve! It’s not house arrest! You’re free to go wherever you want-”

“Except to work.”

“You can’t keep throwing yourself into work, Steve. Whatever you’re not dealing with-”

“I’m not hiding from anything, Nat,” he quips, getting irritated that everyone keeps thinking he’s running from the demons of his past or some other bullshit. “Work is all I know how to do. It’s why they made me Captain America, Nat. To fight for this country. Now, I fight for it with all I have, and I’m being put in time out for it? It’s never enough. So yeah, I’m still a little pissed off.”

“Steve, you can’t keep going on like this. You’re not yourself, you’re irritable. You’re barely sleeping, and you’re moody. You need a break. No one is mad at you for constantly risking your life for this country. But it’s starting to really take a toll, and that’s completely understandable,” she sighs. “You’re good for more than just fighting and you’re good at more than just fighting. I know that after everything with Sharon, you just threw yourself all in and it was hard. Which is why we were all so happy when you got that cute puppy,” She smiles to herself, gently knocking against the door now. “Lately, you’ve just started repeating the routine you were doing before and you need to pump the breaks. Serum or not, you’re still a human being, and you need a break.” The door finally swings open as Steve walks away and sits back onto the couch.

“Thanks for the talk,” he mumbles, returning his gaze to the window.

“Buck and I are going out to lunch, do you wanna come with?”

“I’m good, thanks.”

“Did you know your door is a good listener?” She says with a small smile, trying to break up the melancholy to no avail. “It’s only another two weeks, Steve,” Natasha reminds him, sadness in her tone. “At least try and find something to do? Get a hobby? Maybe, instead of one of the interns taking Clyde to get groomed today, you should,” she suggests with a shrug before walking out.

Steve lets out an exasperated groan as he checks the time.

4:30.

“Hey buddy, you ready to get groomed?” Steve asks as Clyde jumps up and starts barking. “I thought so. Lets go,” he laughs, getting up and grabbing a leash before picking up a baseball cap and sunglasses.

Trying something new was worth it, he told himself, especially if it meant they’d all finally leave him alone. Besides, what life changing event could happen at a grooming salon?

Y/N’s P.O.V

“Is it me or does every dog have an attitude problem today?” you mutter as you wrap your wrist in gauze.

“Jesus, that Yorkie did that?!” Jazz, one of your coworkers asks. “How does it feel?”

“Well, it doesn’t fucking tickle, that’s for sure,” you grumble, finishing off the last of the masking tape. The bracelet you never asked for is complete.

“Well, your last appointment is coming in soon and I’m sure he’ll make you feel better,” Isabella, your boss and best friend quips.

“Clyde!” you beam, always ready and excited to see the playful pup.

“Don’t you always end up annoyed with him because he likes to sit during his grooms?” Jazz laughs.

“Yeah, but we always work through it and become besties again,” you huff matter-of-factly before sticking your tongue out at her.

“Who do you think will be dropping him off today? It’s never the same person,” Isabella questions, trying to get the Shih Tzu she’s grooming to be still while she trims up its face.

“I don’t know and I don’t care. I just wanna see him. He’s my favorite pupper to groom and today’s been shit. I need his kisses and hugs!”

“Well, whoever his parent is must clearly love the work you do, because you’re always generously tipped.”

“Yeah, that always stresses me out a little bit because I really don’t wanna fuck his groom up. He could tip me $40 and that would be fine.”

“How much does he tip you?” Jazz inquires with a smile.

“Way more than $40,” you scoff incredulously as the bell by the front door rings. “He’s here!” you squeal, before making your way out front and pushing the door open. “Clyde!” you beam, not even paying attention to the man who brought him in as you wrap the equally excited pup in a hug. “Are you ready for a bath and trim up?” you question excitedly and Clyde just barks in response before licking your face. “Good boy,” you laugh before standing up. “Hey, I’m...” you trail off as you finally make eye contact with the man who brought in your favorite pup. “Oh, Captain Ro...Captain America? Mr. Steve. No, that’s not right. Um-”

“You can call me Steve,” he chuckles softly, his face slightly red as he looks over you. His gaze on you is more intense than you expected.

“Are you Clyde’s dad?”

“That I am, and by his response, I’m gonna guess that you’re his groomer,” he smiles down at the energetic canine, who’s just sitting and looking up at the both of you, tail wagging hard.

“I am, and thank you so much for the generous tips, honestly. It’s so much more-”

“Please, thank you. He always looks amazing and he’s so happy when he comes back. Thank you so much.”

“It’s my pleasure, Captain...Steve,” you finish awkwardly, mentally kicking yourself for not being able to play it cool. “Also, um, thanks for saving New York...like, all the time.”

“You’re very welcome,” he laughs heartily. You silently swear that you can listen to it all day.

“Um, do you want the same style as usual, or-”

“The same style as always, just make him not so straggly,” he smiles, looking down at his best boy.

“Okay perfect, um, he’s my last one for the day, so he should be done in about 2 and a half hours? Maybe 3, sometimes he gets a little fussy for the dryer, and he likes to sit...a lot,” you laugh softly. “What number should I call?”

“I won’t be far, I’ll probably just walk around the city for a bit.”

“Ah, gonna be on paw patrol, I see,” you say before instantly covering your mouth. Your ability to make awful jokes when extremely nervous really shows itself at the wrong time. “That was such a terrible joke and I’m sorry,” you apologize, your hand still covering your mouth, as Steve let out another hearty laugh. “I’m the queen of awful jokes and I just...Clyde will be ready for you in a bit,” you smile awkwardly holding out your hand for him to pass you the leash.

“Take your time, I’ll happily wait out here for the last hour,” he smiles, still laughing a little as he hands you the leash.

You give him one last awkward nod and smile before you and Clyde quickly make your way into the back.

“That sounded like it was cringe from what I could hear,” Isabella laughs, putting a bow on her Shih Tzu’s ear.

“His dad is Captain America. Steve Rogers is Clyde’s dad,” you mutter as you continued to walk back to the bathing area.

“Come again?!”

“I made a paw patrol joke to Captain America! Someone please throw me in the trash where I belong.”

“You did what?!” Jazz laughs in disbelief.

“And you!” you quip, looking at Clyde. “You could’ve told me!”

“He’s a dog, babe. He can only do so much,” Isabella laughed.

“Well, he didn’t even try,” you snap back, causing both Jazz and Isabella to burst out laughing.

From that moment on, your nerves are on fire. Your anxiety spiked, wanting to take extra care because now that you know Captain fucking America is his dad, you want to make sure you don’t fuck anything up. Of course, Clyde senses your anxiety and gives you little kisses every now and again to try and calm you.

‘He must have great practice at reading emotional stress since Captain America is his dad,’ you think to yourself as you give him a soft pat on the head.

“Y/N, stop over thinking it. You’ve groomed him over 20 times now. You know what you’re doing.”

“Iz, I just-”

“You’ve been grooming dogs for 8 years now. It’s part of the reason I was so happy to bring you into this salon. You know what you’re doing and you’re damn good at it. Just take a deep breath,” she smiles reassuringly.

Her words calm you a little, but not enough to get you to stop second guessing yourself all together.

“Jazz, what are you still doing here? Your shift ended an hour ago,” Isabella asks, finally noticing her sweeping up the salon.

“I wanna see Captain America,” she states as if it’s the most obvious thing in the world, and you can’t stop yourself from laughing.

“Girl, take your ass home. You have to open tomorrow and I don’t need you being late, again,” Isabella teases as Jazz playfully scowls.

“I never get to do anything fun,” she pouts as she places the broom and dust pan against the wall. “At least tell him I said hi,” she pleads as she makes her way out

“Will do,” Isabella laughs, as you shake your head. “Babe, you trim up much more of his belly, it’s not gonna look good,” she warns you.

“Does he look good? Does he look okay?”

“He looks amazing,” she laughs, getting up and giving you a big hug. “He looks amazing just he always does.”

“Yeah? He’s done?”

“He’s done,” she confirms happily. “It has been a while since you two have taken a picture though.”

“He’s too big for me to hold up now,” you groan as Clyde barks. “Well, you are!” you bark back to the excited puppy.

“I think you can hold him up for 15 seconds,” Isabella laughs.

“Fine,” you huff, “but if you haven’t gotten a good picture in 15 seconds, that’s not on me,” you warn as she shakes her head. “Alright bud, you ready? Just like we used to do, but faster this time,” you tell him, and Clyde just licks your hand in response.

“Alright, 3,2,1 LIFT!” Isabelle smiles as you lift him off the table.

Clyde instantly rests his paws on either side of you and licks your face, causing you to laugh just as Isabella takes the photo with her Polaroid camera.

“You two are so cute,” she beams as she places the photo face down.

“Yeah, yeah,” you smirk as you set Clyde down. “I think your Daddy’s here, wanna check and see?” you ask him.

Clyde runs around in little circles in response.

“I thought so,” you laugh.

No sooner than you put his leash on, you hear the bell of the front door, causing Clyde to start barking like crazy.

“I hear ya bud,” Steve calls with a gentle laugh.

Clyde is practically pulling you out the door and you’re doing all you can to keep your balance.

“Relax buddy, relax,” Steve laughs as Clyde jumps up on him. “You look amazing! Were you a good boy?”

“He was the same as always,” you laugh, handing him back the leash before ringing him up. “Um, I know you’re busy keeping us all safe from God knows what, but he did have a few knots. Nothing too terrible, but definitely something you wanna keep an eye on. Maybe ask someone to brush him for you? I don’t know, it can just become really uncomfortable and painful for him. Especially if it gets bad.”

“No, it’s my fault. I’ve been in a funk these last few weeks and haven’t been keeping up with it like I should be. I know he had a problem with that a few months back. I do listen to the feedback that’s brought to me, I promise,” he chuckles with a warm smile.

“And you’ve been doing good! I’m just giving you a little heads up,” you smile reassuringly.

“What’s the damage?”

“It’s on the house,” Isabella chimes in, coming out of the back with a stack of photos.

“You didn’t,” you mutter.

“Oh, but I did,” she smiles.

“No, please don’t...I’m more than happy to pay whatever it is-” Steve starts, giving you both a quizzical look because of the exchange that was just made.

“Don’t worry, I’ll get you next time,” she teases, “but this is my way of saying thank you. I know you probably hear stuff like this all the time, but you personally saved my niece from the Chitauri a few years back. She’s graduating from college next month and that wouldn’t be possible without doing what you did. This is just my small way of saying thanks,” she smiles kindly.

“I’m happy that I was able to help. What’s she majoring in?”

“Criminal science of all things,” she scowls and you force yourself to stifle a laugh. “Anyway, I brought these out because I thought you’d like to see Clyde’s transformation over time!”

“Please don’t do this,” you groan as Steve laughs.

“You’ll also see a bit of Y/N’s transformation, too,” she says playfully.

“I’m going to stab you,” you warn.

“You just threatened harm against me in front of Captain America. If I go missing, he’ll know who to question,” she says matter-of-factly and you just stick your tongue out at her in response.

“I would love to see the pictures,” he laughs, keeping his eyes on you and you can’t help but turn away as you feel heat rushing to your cheeks. “He was so small!” Steve gushes as he looks at the first picture.

“Small and scared,” you smile as you look at the picture with him.

“I’d just adopted him not too long before he came here. I felt terrible not coming with him for the first time, but if one of those lunatics with a camera would’ve figured out that it was me, they would’ve been all over him. I couldn’t do that to him,” he huffs and you can hear the frustration in his voice. “He looks comfortable with you though,” he says assuredly with a smile.

“Oh, we took our time that day,” you smile back, remembering the day. “I waited until he was comfortable and trusted me. He and I have been on a journey,” you laugh.

“I’m happy you’re his groomer. I can tell he really loves and trusts you, and that’s a big deal to me.” He flashes you a quick smile before returning his attention to the pictures. “Is this from today?”

“About 10 minutes ago,” Isabella laughs.

“I’m surprised you were able to pick him up,” Steve scoffs in shock. “You’re so small and he’s so-”

“I held him for all of 15 seconds, please don’t be impressed,” you laugh. “Besides, I lift heavy dogs all day. It comes with the job.”

“Be that as it may....”

“It’s almost like I’m good at my job. Almost,” you tease and Steve smiles at you.

“Well, I’m sure you’re both ready to go home. Do either of you need a ride or-”

“We live in the same complex, so we’re alright,” Isabella smiles, getting the pictures together.

“Oh...oh okay then-”

“No...no,” you feel the need to clarify. “She lives with her boyfriend and I’m the floor above.”

“Oh,” Steve smiles softly.

“Do you need a ride home?” you ask absent minded.

“No, we’re okay. We’re only a few blocks away, but thank you,” he smiles before handing you a tip.

“Cap...Steve, you really don’t-”

“I got a free groom today, I can afford it,” he laughs. “I’m glad I met you, Y/N. I’ll be sure to see you again,” he smiles with a small nod before making his way out. “It was nice meeting you too!” he calls to Isabella.

“Same to you...sir!” she calls back and you can’t stop yourself from laughing at her.

“My oh my!” she smirks at you as soon as the door closes.

“Do not start,” you warn, a smile tugging at your lips.

“Cap seemed to be very-”

“He seemed to be very happy with how Clyde’s groom came out.”

“Oh yeah, totally. That’s why he seemed so relieved when you pointed out that you and I aren’t dating. Which, by the way, I’m a little insulted by how quickly you cleared that up,” she teases as you two make final touches around the shop, making sure everything is where it should be, before locking up the salon for the night.

“Yeah, I don’t know what the hell that was about either?” you laugh in total disbelief. “I don’t know why I even thought he needed to know that.”

“Because you think he’s dreamy,” Isabella teases in a sing-song tone, as you playfully push her. “Just think you of it: you as Captain America’s girlfriend,” she winks before coking an eyebrow.

“Stop it!” you laugh as you two start your short trek home. “Also, I know I don’t have to tell you this, but still-”

“I know, don’t tell anyone. Why do you think I sent Jazz home early? She means well, but she would’ve been all over him in an instant. Asking for pictures and everything,” she scoffs.

“Thank you for that, by the way,” you sigh as you look up at your complex building. “It’s been a long day and the weather is nice. You wanna sit on the roof and have a few beers?”

“Hell yeah! It’s been a while,” she laughs before practically dragging you inside with her.

The elevator ride to the 12th floor is quick, and just as quickly as she was running in to tell her boyfriend (Isaiah) hi and that she’d be on the roof with some beers. She returns just as quick as the elevator, beers in hand.

“Don’t fall off please,” he calls right as she’s about to close the door.

“We make no promises!” she answers with a small laugh as the door closes.

You make a quick stop on your floor to drop off your things in your apartment, before you and Isabella get back on the elevator, taking it up as far as it’ll go. You two get out and take the steps the rest of the way, finally getting to the rooftop.

“What do you think it’s like in there?” she asks as you both sit in your chairs and open a beer, both looking over at the Avengers tower.

“I can’t even begin to imagine, honestly,” you chuckle. “They deal with aliens, fight crime, deal with political leaders. I’ve read about the parties and I don’t even wanna think about how much money Stark spends on them.”

“And yet, somehow, Steve Rogers seems to be taken with you,” she nudges.

“You’re really funny today.”

“Oh come on, Y/N! The little smile and nod before he left? The way he couldn’t stop smiling at you?!”

“Iz, it’s not a big deal,” you shrug, returning your gaze to the Avengers tower. “Guys like him don’t date women like me. We’re from two different worlds. He dates political women...and models,” you laugh.

“You could be a model!”

“Half a beer is your new limit, clearly.”

“Y/N! At least acknowledge that you had his attention for at least a minute,” she begs, giving you big, sympathetic eyes.

“Fine,” you groan, a small smirk playing on your lips. “I had his attention for just a moment.”

“Thank you!” she nods, before returning her gaze to the Avengers tower and finishing off her beer before grabbing another.

You shake your head at the thought but can’t stop smiling to yourself. Even if it was just for a fleeting moment, it was nice to have the attention of a quiet and kind man.

4 Days Later...

Steve can’t get the thought of you out of his head. Your big, hopeful eyes, and genuine smile; the way you were mortified at the horrible joke you made, how genuinely excited you were to see Clyde before you even realized whom his dad was, and your genuine kindness. He closes his eyes and still visualize your hair pulled up into a high ponytail, and a little scarf wrapped around your edges, plain faced and high spirited.

Steve needs to see you again.

The only issue is that he can’t figure out how. He can’t just walk in and ask you out on a date. He’s far too shy and reserved for that; he always has been. That was the nice part about asking Sharon out. They already worked together, so asking her out happened naturally. They spent so much time together that one time they went to lunch together and Steve decided that it was a date. Steve asked her if that was okay and she had no objections.

You’re different.

Steve doesn’t know you from a can of paint. How the hell is he supposed to get your attention? There was no issue with Clyde’s groom, so it’s not like he can go back and ask you to grind his nails shorter or something. No other Avenger has a dog, so it’s not like he can bring another one by and ask you to groom it. He doesn’t know where you live, so he can’t send you flowers. Of course, he can send them to the salon, but he already knows everyone will bombard you with questions and he’ll feel terrible if he embarrasses you.

But what can he do?

“Rogers!” Fury roars, coming into the compound full of vigor. “I have told you more than once to keep your dog-”

“Clyde,” Steve instantly corrects, not liking the disdain in Fury’s voice towards his pet.

“Clyde, off the training field!” he snaps as he turns his attention to a very muddy and happy Clyde. “Don’t let this happen again, Cap,” Fury warns before storming out.

“Bud, I told you about that! No digging in the training fields!” he scolds Clyde halfheartedly.

He can’t help but feel bad because the compound really is no place for a pet, but Steve couldn’t stop himself. As soon as he saw Clyde in the adoption shelter he was ready to bring him home before he could register what he was doing.

All Clyde did was bark and lick his face.

“C’mon bud, lets get you cleaned up,” Steve smiles sheepishly before an idea pops into his head.

“Happy Tails grooming, how may we service you and your pet today?” Isabella answers lazily.

“Hey, it’s uh, it’s Steve. I was there the other day-”

“Oh, I remember,” she smiles as she looks over in your direction. “How are you?”

“I’m fine, a little busy today,” he says hurriedly.

“I’m sure you are,” she laughs softly. “How can I help you today?”

“Well, it seems that Clyde went digging in the training fields again, and I’d bring him to the salon myself, but the powers at be are already pretty angry. Him tracking mud through the compound would only make it worse,” he chuckles awkwardly. “Would you mind sending someone? I can send a car so they don’t have to pay for the commute.”

“Sure, I can have Y/N ready for you in about 20 minutes, she’s finishing up a dog right now,” Isabella laughs as she watches you sing, ‘This Must Be The Place’ to your current four legged client as it plays softly over the salon playlist.

“Thanks, I promise I’ll try not to keep her too long.”

“Take all the time you need,” Isabella hums with a small smile on her face before hanging up. “Hey babe, got a job for you. A house call,” she says to you with a mischievous grin.

Y/N’s P.O.V

You can’t help but feel small as the Lexus pulls up to the Avengers compound. To go to the tower would’ve been one thing, but the compound? You can barely wrap your head around the concept.

“We’re here, Miss,” the driver smiles back at you.

All you can think to do is smile before opening the door and awkwardly stumbling out of the car.

“Shit! I left most of my cash at the salon!” you remember almost instantly, digging around in your smock pockets. “Umm, here’s a $5? I’m so sorry-”

“It’s fine, ma’am,” the man laughs softly. “There’s no need to tip.”

“Please? I feel so bad and-”

“You think I don’t pay my employees well enough?” a familiar voice you’ve only ever heard on TV asks you.

“M-Mr. Stark, no it’s just that...he did me a service, a-and it’s only right for me to-”

“I’m just foolin’ with ya,” he laughs, extending his hand to shake yours. “Happy isn’t gonna take your money, so just put it back in your pocket.”

“O-okay,” you smile nervously, quickly pushing the $5 bill as far down as it would go into it. You give Happy one last smile and wave before turning and walking with Tony Stark. You feel dizzy, like you’re in another world.

“So, a dog groomer, huh? How does one find themselves doing that?” he questions gently as you two make your way inside.

“I just really love dogs and taking care of them, plus they’re better than people, so...”

“That’s very true,” he laughs, stopping at the elevator. “Steve is on the 4th floor.”

“Thank you,” you smile nervously before stepping into the elevator with all of your equipment.

Tony laughs, shaking his head before waving as the doors close.

What on earth could be so funny at a time like this?

“4th floor,” the elevator announces as it comes to a stop and the doors open.

You timidly start your way off, slowly making way down the hall, unsure of where you’re supposed to be going exactly. You were tempted to knock on one of the doors in front of you and ask for help until you heard your favorite bark.

“Clyde!” you squeal, as the muddy pup runs towards you, jumping on you instantly. “What did you do?!” you question with a laugh.

“He decided to piss off Nick Fury,” Steve laughs, walking up behind his overly excited child.

“Oh, I wouldn’t wanna be the one responsible for that,” you laugh, still looking over Clyde and seeing just how muddy he is.

“Yeah, it’s never fun to be on the other side of that. I’m sorry I asked you to come all the way out here, but I didn’t want him tracking mud all over the compound, and I don’t have pet shampoo here-”

“Hey, it’s no big deal. I’m always happy to help, especially when it comes to my favorite boy,” you say as your smile passes from Clyde to Steve, who’s looking at you with something in his eyes that you can’t quite place.

“Well, let me lead the way,” he smiles, awkwardly rubbing the back of his neck.

There’s no way he’s nervous, right? Nervous because of you?

Doubtful.

“So, this is where I shower, but if you need a bigger area-”

“No, this is perfect,” you almost whisper as you marvel at the size of it. ‘This makes my entire bathroom look like the corner of a closet’ you think to yourself as you start unpacking your things. “Is the shower head-”

“Removable? Yeah, just click this button here and it pops right out,” Steve smiles as he shows you how to use it.

You quickly shake your head at all the thoughts you shouldn’t have about Steve doing anything in the shower, and just smile and nod along with what he’s saying, half paying attention.

You’re definitely gonna need a refresher course.

“Well, I guess I’ll leave you two to it,” he smiles sheepishly.

“Um, maybe you staying will help?” you respond a little too quickly, not ready for Mr. Blonde Ambition to leave your presence just yet. “He isn’t used to being groomed at home, so it might help to have you here and keep him calm,” you lie, impressing yourself.

You’re well aware, that if anything, Clyde is going to be even more excited, but you’re ready to deal with whatever comes your way.

Just as long as you can talk a little while longer with the beautiful man.

“Are you sure? I don’t wanna get him riled up.”

“No, it’ll be fine,” you promise with an affirming nod.

From that moment on, you and Steve are almost lost in conversation about everything and nothing. Clyde, on the other hand, was over this unscheduled groom.

“Sweet boy, you know the drill,” you sigh, trying to keep him still as you set up the dryer.

Clyde’s having none of it; not caring at all that he’s dripping wet and could potentially injure himself on bathroom tile. Clyde doesn’t care and keeps pulling away from you.

“Clyde, you’re not being a very good boy right now,” Steve chides, crossing his arms as he gives the frustrated puppy a stern look.

‘Keep talking like that and I’ll do anything I can to find out what you sound like when you’re calling me your good girl’ you mentally whine like a cat in heat.

“Steve, would you mind grabbing me a towel and we’ll just take a little break,” you sigh, trying to push those thoughts out of your mind.

“You sure?”

“Yeah, he’s just fussy because he’s not used to having a bath here. He just needs to calm down. I’ll towel him off and let him take a breather for 5 minutes,” you smile sympathetically at Clyde, who is finally starting to settle down because you’ve taken a seat beside him.

Steve quickly jogs out before quickly returning with two towels in hand. “Sorry he’s giving you such a hard time today.”

“Compared to the other pets I’ve dealt with today, he’s being a saint,” you scoff as you start to hand dry Clyde.

“I’m afraid to ask,” Steve laughs, taking a seat beside you in the shower.

“Well, by 9:30am, I’d been kicked in the mouth, bitten twice, and scratched up,” you smirk, showing him your wrist.

“Geez!”

“Yeah, it’s all sunshine and rainbows.”

“But you still wanna do it?”

“I love it,” you smile. “No, it’s not always a good day, but I get to help and take care of dogs. Some dogs are terrible, some just need a little time and patience, and others are just happy to have someone paying attention to them. I mean, aliens and bad guys try to kill you for a living,” you giggle softly as Steve scoffs, “but you still love what you do. It’s not ideal, but then again, most things in life aren’t,” you finish, looking into his eyes.

For just a moment, you two are lost in the silence of each other’s gaze. His eyes are so soft and show so much happiness. He looks so at peace. You just wanna lean in and-

You both jump when Clyde starts barking. “You ready to try again, bud?” you laugh, quickly turning your head away as you feel your body start heating up.

What is the matter with you? He’s Steve Rogers. Captain America. Get your shit together.

“Alright babe, I know you hate this part, but we’re more than halfway done. Just gonna dry you off and then brush you out, okay?” you tell Clyde as you turn on the dryer.

As usual, he starts barking and trying to run away from it, which you’re prepared for, instantly gripping the lead a little tighter. What you aren’t prepared for is Steve settling himself by Clyde and taking a hold of him.

“Come on, Clyde. You love Y/N. Don’t give her a hard time because you can’t seem to follow the rules,” he smirks down at the irritated pup. Clyde licks his face and slowly starts to calm down. “There’s my good boy. Let her finish.”

“Oh Steve, you don’t have to-”

“I feel really bad about this,” he laughs, still somewhat cradling Clyde, “is he always like this?”

“For the most part,” you chuckle. “Like I said, he’s just a bit more frustrated because he doesn’t associate bath time with home.”

“I’ll start bathing him so he gets more comfortable,” Steve promises softly as Clyde rolls over in his arms, showing his belly.

“Well, if you do that, I won’t be able to see him as often.”

“Maybe I’ll start asking for you to do more house calls.”

“Maybe you should,” you smirk before returning your attention back to Clyde, who was almost dry.

What is this man doing to you? You need to get out of there fast. Steve Rogers was not the first client to hit on you, but he’s first one who actually is succeeding.

“I feel like I should be tipping you more,” Steve laughs as you turn off the dryer. “I never thought it was an easy job, all of this and you got kicked in the mouth today?” he scoffs.

“Just a regular Thursday,” you laugh as you brush Clyde out. “You don’t need to tip me any more than you already do, honestly.”

“I feel like I should do more.”

“You truly don’t need to.”

“Well...can I take you out to lunch today? It’s 2pm,” he questions hopefully.

“I just spent my lunch break and then some coming out here,” you laugh softly.

“Now I feel awful,” he chuckles nervously. “Have you at least eaten today?”

“No, but it’s okay, because I usually don’t eat on my lunch break,” you quickly explain, not wanting to make him feel any worse. “So no, I can’t do lunch today but...I’m off on the weekends, so we can do something after I get off work tomorrow, if you want,” you automatically offer without even thinking.

“Dinner is my favorite meal of the day anyway,” he laughs sheepishly.

“Where do you like to go?”

“Well, I’ve been honored at some restaurants downtown that are pretty-”

“No, where do you like to go where you’re comfortable? I wanna have dinner with Steve, not Captain America,” you correct softly as you pack up your things.

“In that case...I don’t really know. I don’t like going out much, because I can’t do much in peace,” he sighs.

“That’s a good point...how about you come to my place, or I can come back here, and I can make us dinner?”

“You’ve groomed my dog twice in one week and now you’re offering to cook for me? I can’t-”

“I love to cook, it’s no big deal,” you laugh. “Besides, it’ll be my way of complimenting you for that generous tip you gave me a few days ago.”

“You have to let me do something for you.”

“How about you buy the ingredients needed?”

“What do you need me to get?”

“Uh, if you give me your number, I can text it to you,” you offer nervously as you pass him your phone.

He happily and quickly takes it, puts his number in, and hands it back to you. “See you here tomorrow at...?”

“Is 6 okay?”

“6 is perfect.”

“I’ll text you everything that I’ll need for dinner when I get home tonight,” you smile at him as you close up grooming travel kit. “As for you, lets try to not get Daddy into anymore trouble, huh?” you smile at Clyde as you give him a hug. “Be a good boy,” you laugh as he licks you and barks. “Steve,” you smile, standing up, “I guess I’ll see you tomorrow.” You have a hard time believing the words that are coming out of your mouth.

“Looking forward to it,” he smiles at you. You know that you need to get out of there, like now.

You give one last awkward nod before quickly making your way out of his apartment and back to the elevator.

You don’t feel like you can breathe again until you’re back in the backseat of the Lexus that brought you into this universe.

“Everything go well, Miss?” Happy asks as he drives away from the compound.

“Perfect,” you laugh in disbelief.

The minute you’re back at the salon, everyone is hounding you with questions:

‘What’s the compound look like?!’

‘Who did you meet?!’

‘Did you hear anything about that attack downtown?!’

‘Was Thor there?!’

‘Did you get to see Thor leave back to his home?!’

‘How’s Clyde?’

‘Was Steve happy to see you?!’

‘Are you and Captain America dating?!’

‘Did you meet Black Widow?!’

“Let the woman breathe, holy shit,” Isabella sighs, ushering you back to your station. “I’m sure being at the Avenger compound was daunting enough. She doesn’t need you all bombarding her with questions!”

“It’s fine,” you laugh, trying to shrug it off. “Just none of you, please don’t let anyone know that Captain America gets his dog groomed here,” you beg, cringing at the sound of you calling him that.

It just doesn’t feel right.

“As for every other question; I didn’t see anyone besides Steve, the compound looks like an expensive loft with a giant training area and a few closed off work spaces from what I could see, Clyde is fine, just rowdy, and I’m not dating Steve Rogers” you laugh, content with most of what you said.

No one needs to know that you met Tony Stark.

“Then why-” Jazz starts

“Clyde dug in the training field and made a mess all over the compound. No more and no less,” you shrug as you unpack your things.

The sighs of annoyance do nothing but make you chuckle.

“You’re gonna tell me everything later though, right?” Isabella whispers to you as helps you set your table.

“You bet your ass,” you mutter.

The rest of the day goes off without a hitch. You do your best to fight off the smile that keeps trying to find its way on to your face.

“Okay, you’ve gotta tell me, cause I haven’t seen you smile like this since Bryan Chase asked you out for the 9th grade dance. What happened up at the compound today? You don’t know how much I need all the details,” she laughs as she locks up the salon.

“I think...I think I have a pizza date with Steve Rogers tomorrow,” you laugh, still trying to come to terms with the situation yourself.

“WHAT?!”

“Hush!” you quiet her with a laugh as you try to contain yourself. “I guess I’m gonna make him a pizza tomorrow and hangout?”

“Oh, he likes you so much! You have to tell me how the pizza date-”

“Stop,” you laugh, “I still can’t believe it’s happening. I probably shouldn’t even call it a date. It’s just a hangout.”

“Babe, it’s a date. It is very much a date,” she scoffs.

“If it’s a date, shouldn’t he be cooking?”

“You’re the idiot who offered!”

“He doesn’t like going out and I don’t blame him. He likes his privacy and I like that. I like that he doesn’t want to be seen as Captain America 24/7. That would make all of this even more nerve wracking. To be quite honest, I probably wouldn’t like him all that much if he was like that,” you sigh as you two reach your building.

“Just take a deep breath. He’s very much into you and you’re into him. Take it slow and don’t put pressure on yourself. You said so yourself, he just wants to be Steve, not Captain America. When you feel yourself getting too worked up, just keep that in mind. You and him both like simplicity, and that’s a good place to start.”

“What would I do without you?”

“Probably freak out a lot,” she laughs as you two get on the elevator. “Also, you’re both getting to know each other. Just because he saves people and has super powers doesn’t mean he’s hot shit.”

“God, but he is hot. When scolded Clyde today, I almost had an orgasm right there,” you groan as Isabella bursts out laughing.

“Walk before you run,” she breathes out as you two reach her floor. “Or run, but be a little marathoner if you do though. Just have fun. It’s gonna be great, I’m sure of it,” she smiles as she steps off the elevator. “And even if it all goes to shit, at least you can say you went on a date with the Captain,” she shrugs as the elevator doors close.

Her words roll around in your head as you wait to get to your floor. You truly don’t want to over think it, but he’s Steve Rogers. The man out of time. A war hero, turned war criminal, turned war hero again. He’s everything, all at once.

And he’s interested in you.

You shake your head and chuckle as you enter your apartment, trying to wrap your mind around everything that happened today. You pull out your phone, ready to text Steve, but feeling completely confused when you can’t find his number. You’re about to give up when you find the one name out of place in your contacts and start laughing.

Y/N: You’re a hard man to find.

Clyde’s Dad: How long did it take you? Lol

Y/N: Somewhere around 6 minutes haha

Clyde’s Dad: I’m impressed.

Y/N: Oh hush lol. Do you like pizza?

Clyde’s Dad: I was born and raised in Brooklyn. Of course I like pizza.

Y/N: Well I don’t know! You had a lot of restrictions as a kid, so maybe you don’t! lol

Clyde’s Dad: The one advantage you have over me is you learned about me in history class.

Y/N: LOL! Only a little bit! Besides, I heard a lot about Captain America. Didn’t learn much about Steve. So, we’re both in the dark about one another.

Clyde’s Dad: Good point :)

Y/N: So, pizza it is. Buffalo chicken pizza okay?

Clyde’s Dad: It’s fine. What brand do you like?

Y/N: Brand? Steve..no. We’re making pizza...from scratch. We’re cooking.

Clyde’s Dad: I didn’t think we were actually making food! I’m not the best cook.

Y/N: I’ll show you :)

Clyde’s Dad: So, you groom dogs, you cook, you do house calls...is there anything you can’t do?

Y/N: Remember to pay my credit card on time according to this notification I just received on my phone lol.

Clyde’s Dad: Is it too early for me to tell you that I like you?

Y/N: No...cause I like you too

Clyde’s Dad: Okay, I’m supposed to go grocery shopping tomorrow. If you don’t tell me what I’m supposed to get now, I don’t think we’ll ever get to it lol.

You can’t stop smiling as you send him the ingredients for what’s needed to make the pizza. You feel like a middle schooler with a giant crush all over again. You don’t mind that.

Clyde’s Dad: Are you still gonna like me if I burn dinner?

Y/N: I won’t let you burn dinner, but I’ll still like you either way.

Clyde’s Dad: I’m really looking forward to tomorrow.

Y/N: Me too :)

Clyde’s Dad: Can I call you?

Y/N: I’d like that a lot.

Almost instantly your phone starts ringing.

“You work quick,” you laugh as you toss your smock onto your bed.

“I just wanted to hear your voice.”

“It can’t be all that great.”

“It’s better than you think,” he scoffs softly. “This isn’t usually how I approach these things...asking someone out. It’s been so damn long-”

“If it makes you feel any better, I’ve got sea legs too,” you laugh softly. “I don’t know what came over me today but...I’m happy it did. I know we just met a few days ago but...”

“Yeah, I feel the same. You really are something else.”

“How so?”

“I don’t know,” he laughs “I really don’t. Everything is just so simple with you. So easy. You don’t fawn over me, you’re kind and gentle, you’re funny, beautiful...God, you’re so damn beautiful, and you’re interested in me. Not Captain America, not in being photographed for some press event, not-”

“You’re giving me too much credit,” you interrupt, feeling overwhelmed at his words.

“I don’t see how I am.”

“I just don’t want you making up this idea of me before you get to know me. I’m not always the most agreeable person.”

“Neither am I,” he laughs.

“Then cooking together may go really good. Or really bad,” you laugh to yourself.

“Tell me to not come and see you tonight.”

“Don’t come and see me tonight,” you smile as you plop down on your bed, in complete and utter disbelief at what’s taking place.

“Why not?”

“So you’ll have something to look forward to tomorrow.”

“Well, when you put it that way...”

“Goodnight Steve.”

“Goodnight Y/N,” he finishes, and you can hear his smile, before he ends the call.

You let out a scream in excitement as you kick your feet up, feeling elated that just maybe you found a good one. When you take your shower, you quickly clean yourself, trying to rush the next day to get there as soon as possible. Your dinner is light and your head is full, as you try to calm your nerves over what’s about to take place.

You dream of all the possible outcomes of your first real date in years.

‘Your first real date in almost 3 years and it’s with a fucking Avenger,’ you repeatedly tell yourself as you groom your first dog the next day.

You’re barely making conversation with anyone as you zoom through your grooms. You can’t even remember the last time you got through a work day so fast.

“You have no one else coming in today,” Isabella laughs as your last dog leaves for the day. “I guess you’re good to go.”

“You don’t need me to clean up anything?”

“Go and enjoy your weekend,” she encourages as you hang your smock up on the hook by your station.

“Then...I guess I’m off,” you smile at her as you try and hide the hesitation that you’re sure is shining through your body language. “Everyone, have a great weekend!” you call as you pull your hoodie on.

“Everything is gonna be fine,” Isabella coos as she wraps you in a hug. “Deep breaths.”

“Deep breaths have been the only thing that’s getting me through the day,” you laugh before making your way out.

“Tell me how it goes when you get home tonight!”

“Will do,” you silently giggle before heading out.

The minute you step foot in your apartment, you rush to get into the shower, while also trying to come up with an outfit mentally. You don’t want to make it seem like you’re trying too hard, but you also don’t want to look like you don’t care at all.

You’ve literally only spoken to the man a handful of times, and you only met him a few short days ago. Why are you making such a fuss about it?

You finally decide on a ‘The Clash’ t-shirt, your worn blue jeans, a pair of black low top converse, and decide to leave your hair down, brushing it out. You take a deep breath and look yourself over in the mirror, as you smooth your hands over your shirt.

You’re just going to hangout and eat some food with a guy. No big deal.

At least, that’s what you keep telling yourself as you follow your GPS directions to the compound. You try to let the music distract you, but the closer you get, the more butterflies are in your stomach. When you reach the compound, you realize you have no idea where to park. You turn off your GPS, anxiously dialing his number.

“Hey, you here?” he answers almost instantly and you can’t help but notice the tone in his voice, like he’s so excited to see you.

“Yeah and I have no idea where to park,” you chuckle nervously as you see him walking outside to meet you.

“Honestly, you can leave it there if you want. That’s where Tony always leaves his car.”

“He owns the building, Steve. He can leave it on the roof if he wants.”

“Just leave it there,” he laughs as he approaches your car and hangs up his phone. “If anyone gives you a hard time, I’ll move it myself.”

“Steve...are you sure?”

“I promise,” he smiles reassuringly.

With a smile like that, you didn’t care if you could leave your car there or not. Your butterflies have flown away and now all you want to do is unravel the mystery that is Steve Rogers.

“I didn’t know that’s where we leave our cars now,” Tony quips as he and Pepper make their way to his car, which happens to be right in front of yours.

“Leave her alone Tony,” Steve snaps rolling his eyes, probably able to sense just how awkward you feel.

“I can move it, I just don’t know-”

“Pay no mind to Tony,” Pepper urges with a small smile to you, “he just likes to hear himself talk.”

“Ya know, this is my compound.”

“It’s the Avengers compound.”

“Yeah, that I funded and designed.”

“C’mon, you can cry to me about it at dinner,” she scoffs as Tony rolls his eyes in a mocking way. “You two have fun!” she calls over her shoulder.

“That was surprisingly...normal?” you laugh as you and Steve make your way inside the compound.

“I think we’d all go insane if Tony didn’t have Pepper,” he smirks. “Do you want me to show you around or...?”

“While I do, I’m pretty hungry,” you laugh sheepishly, “maybe after?”

“I’d really like that,” he smiles at you as he leads you both to the elevator, his gaze not leaving you.

“Now,” you clear your throat as you look away, not being able to handle the intensity of his eyes. “You say that you’re not a good cook-”

“Anything besides bacon and eggs is lost on me,” he chuckles.

“Oh, this is gonna be a lot of fun,” you tease as you both step inside the elevator.

“I’ll do my best to keep up.”

“What else can’t you do?”

“Why are you so excited to learn about what I can’t do?”

“You’re joking right? The playing field is not even right now,” you tell him matter-of-factly as he bursts out laughing. “I’ve gotta get what I can.”

“What about you, then?” he questions with a cocked eyebrow as the elevator lands on his floor.

“What about me?”

“What aren’t you good at?”

“Honestly, take your pick.”

“Oh no, I refuse to believe that. I’ve seen you be good at too many things.”

“You’ve seen me do one thing!”

“You’re about to cook!”

“You don’t even know if you’re gonna like it! I could set the compound on fire!”

“As if I’d let it get that far. I am Captain America.”

“Oh shut up!” you laugh as he opens the door to his apartment. “Where’s my best boy?” you ask when you’re met with silence.

“Buck and Nat like to take him on walks at night, he’ll be back in an hour or so. He’ll be extremely excited to see you.”

“You think so?”

“I’m pretty sure he loves you more than he loves me.”

“The lies!”

“I’m just saying! He was super excited when he saw you yesterday!”

“That’s because he only sees me once a month,” you remind him.

“Well, be that as it may-”

“Trust and believe me when I say that there’s no one Clyde loves more than you,” you smile up at him as you lean against the kitchen island.

“Hopefully, we’ll be able to put that theory to the test if you keep coming around more often.”

“Play your cards right and we’ll see, Rogers,” you tease with a smirk before standing upright. “Now, where are our groceries? And I’m gonna need to sync my phone to your speakers.”

“All the groceries are put away and why do you need to sync your phone to my speakers?”

“For music, duh. You can’t cook without music! It’s illegal.”

“Uh huh, not sure about that one, Doll.”

“Well, it should be,” you shrug as you start digging out the seasonings, dough, tomatoes, and everything else you asked him to buy.

Soon enough, music is playing, you’re starting on the sauce, and Steve pours you a glass of wine before getting himself a beer. The whole thing feels so normal and comfortable. Almost like it’s something the both of you do every day. The conversation is effortless as you dance around the kitchen, putting together a meal you’ve made a million times.

“You still haven’t told me,” Steve says as he finishes his second beer, grabbing a third.

“Hmm?” you question as you spread the sauce on the dough.

“What are you bad at?”

“Oh, that,” you laugh as you start searching for the cheese. “I’m awful at Math. Truly. Isabella let me cheat off her tests in High School and I’m fairly sure that’s the only reason I passed,” you giggle at the thought.

“That doesn’t give me a leg up at all,” he scoffs as ‘This Must Be The Place’ starts playing.

“Finally!” you squeal, moving your hips to the beat.

“Finally?”

“This is one of my favorite songs! I mean, ‘Landslide’ by Fleetwood Mac ranks higher for me, but that song makes me cry and I can’t dance to it,” you shrug as you continue to dance to the upbeat tune.

“So, you’re good at dancing, too?” he laughs as he watches you make your way around the kitchen.

“Oh, you’re not gonna tell me you’re a bad dancer, Rogers.”

“I don’t have much time for it,” he shrugs, a smile tugging on his lips as he continues watching you move.

“Well lucky for you, you have time now and you’re spending time with someone who loves to dance. Get over here.”

“Please don’t make me do this,” he groans as you shake your head.

“Cooking and dancing, we’re tackling it all tonight. Let’s go Rogers,” you muse playfully.

Steve scowls but nonetheless makes his way over to you, placing his beer on the counter top before holding his hands out.

“Dancing isn’t a death sentence ya know,” you tell him as you move his hips to the beat.

“It is when can’t do it and you’re trying to impress someone.”

“You’re trying something new, who says I’m not impressed?”

“I think you’re just trying to massage my bruised ego.”

“Anyone will to try anything new is someone who has my attention,” you smile as you start to dance along with him.

“Special delivery for...oh,” Bucky stops short when he spots you and Steve dancing in the kitchen as Clyde comes bouncing towards you.

“Clyde!” you squeal as you squat down and hug him while he continues barking in pure excitement.

“What’s going on here?” Natasha asks as both her and Bucky make their way inside, Bucky moving a little faster as he’s trying to get a glimpse of the food that’s being made.

“Um, I’m teaching Steve how to cook...well, trying to,” you laugh nervously as you extend your hand towards Natasha. “I’m Y/N,”

“It’s nice to meet you,” she smiles, shaking your hand as she looks you over. God, you hope you pass whatever silent test she’s putting you through.

“You’re making pizza? Steve, you’re making pizza and you didn’t tell me? Not only am I missing out on a chance to give you shit, but you’re also eating one of my favorite meals without me!” Bucky scoffs, feigning hurt, and you can’t help but stifle a laugh.

“That’s exactly why I didn’t tell you,” Steve mutters before grabbing his beer, while using his free hand to pet Clyde, who is extremely happy to see his two favorite people together.

“Buffalo chicken pizza, huh?” Natasha asks as she looks over at the marinated cooked chicken in a glass bowl.

“Yeah, Steve told me to decide on dinner, so I figured I’d play it safe and make the one thing I know I won’t screw up,” you laugh awkwardly, washing your hands before drying them, and bringing the chicken over to the pie you made Steve knead for you. He really didn’t do a bad job.

“It also looked like you were trying to teach him how to dance,” Natasha smirks as Steve turns his attention to the oven.

“He’s a quick learner,” you encourage, trying to save the sweet man’s ego.

“Steve? Dance? I gotta see this,” Bucky laughs as you take the shredded mozzarella cheese out of the fridge.

“Don’t you two have a movie to watch or something,” Steve snaps as you turn away to keep from laughing at the two best buds. They slightly remind you of you and Isabella.

“I can make time for this,” Bucky smiles coyly, grabbing Steve’s beer from him and taking a sip.

“We do have a movie to watch,” Natasha laughs as she grabs Steve’s beer from Bucky and hands it back to him. “Save us a slice though, please?” she asks you, raising an eyebrow.

“I promise,” you nod towards her.

“We’ll let you two kids get back to it,” Bucky calls over his shoulder as Natasha practically drags him away. “Clyde was perfect!”

“When isn’t he?” Steve questions as you laugh, knowing that Steve knows better.

“Fair point! Goodnight kids! Don’t do anything we wouldn’t do...or would do for that matter!”

“Buck!” Natasha chastises before the door closes.

“I’m so sorry about that,” Steve sighs as you double over in laughter.

“Why are you sorry? That was nice! He’s your best friend and it was nice to see you two go back and forth. I like getting to know you...seeing this side of you.”

“I have to admit that this is going so much better than I thought it would.”

“Why did you think it would be bad?” you scoff as you start adding the shredded bits of the buffalo chicken to the pizza.

“Women never want me, they want Captain America. They want the suit. I don’t want to have to pretend when I come home, or after hours. I just wanna be myself and that’s surprisingly easy with you. Not sure just how or why yet,” he laughs in disbelief “but it’s been really nice,” he smiles.

“Same goes for you,” you smile at him before dousing the pizza with cheese.

“Why do I feel like this night is about to be extremely unhealthy?”

“Because not all of us have to save the world on a daily basis,” you tease before adding the rest of the garnishes on, then opening the door to the oven and putting the pie in. “And now,” you smile, “we find something to occupy our time.”

Filling your time with simple pleasures is one of your favorite things to do, so Steve has no issue with letting you take over. It starts with more dancing, Steve laughing at how much you don’t care, and you dancing around with a glass full of wine. However, it soon turns into debate about which era has better music, which Steve only wins because he dances with you to ‘Our Love Is Different’ by Billie Holiday.

“You don’t win,” you mutter as he holds you close and you two dance, “but I do like this song.”

“I’ll take what I can get, Doll.”

“Ya know, I don’t even think you really mind my music all that much. I think you just wanted to hold me.”

“There might be some truth to that,” he agrees and you can hear the smile in his voice right before the timer goes off. “Is it wrong that I’m annoyed dinner’s ready?”

“Not at all,” you chuckle softly as you break away.

You both make your plates in a comfortable silence, Clyde following you both around the kitchen, quietly begging for scraps. When you get to the sofa, before he can even say anything, you pass him the remote.

“I wanna watch something that makes you smile.”

All he did was turn his head to hide his smile as he switched over to a streaming service. You can’t stop yourself from giggling when you see a bunch of classic Disney cartoon options pop up.

“They’re comforting,” he explains with a small laugh of his own before deciding on Dumbo.

“Dumbo?!”

“It was one of the last movies I saw before joining the army,” he smiles softly before taking a bite of pizza. “This is really good!”

“Why are you so surprised?” you laugh, grabbing your glass of wine as the movie starts playing.

“I’m not surprised that you’re a good cook, I’m just surprised by how good it tastes.”

“How is that any different?” you tease, cocking an eyebrow.

“You know what I mean,” he scoffs, rolling his eyes before taking another bite.

“You said this movie’s a comfort for you before. Why’s that?”

“Well,” Steve sighs, leaning back into the sofa, “I felt like I was Dumbo then. I still feel like I’m Dumbo now,” he laughs humorlessly. “Back then, I had all of these issues, I only had my mother, one friend, and I was bullied all the time. Yeah, I stood up for myself, but I still felt out of place and that’s because I truly didn’t belong anywhere. Then, I guess you could say, the army ‘taught me how to fly’ and I got to get away from all of it. Fast forward a bit, I ended up in the ice, I get taken out and have no clue about anything, and once again was out of place. Going back didn’t feel right any more, but sometimes staying doesn’t feel like it was the right option, either.”

“Well, if it helps at all, I’m happy you’re still here in the current time...even though I didn’t know you had the option to leave?” you question as he chuckles.

“There were these Infinity stones...it’s a whole thing, we can talk about it another time,” he smiles as he turns his attention to you.

“Well, I’m still happy you stayed. You’re meant to be here, even if it doesn’t always feel like it,” you offer with a sad smile before taking a sip of your wine. “I obviously haven’t gone through all of the same things that you have, but I know what it’s like to feel out of place. Like you don’t belong anywhere.”

“Yeah?”

“School, family, people who were supposed to be friends, ex-lovers, past jobs...it’s been a roller coaster to say the least,” you smile with a soft chuckle “but it’s slowly starting to get better.”

“Does this count as something that’s helping it take a step in that direction?”

“So far so good,” you smile at him.

Once again, the conversation flows effortlessly and you both forget about almost everything outside of it. You don’t notice when Clyde falls asleep in-between the both of you on the couch, you don’t notice when the movie comes to an end, and you don’t notice how late it’s getting. You’re both so wrapped up in conversation and each other. It’s so easy and natural.

It’s nice.

“So wait,” Steve laughs, grabbing another beer as you finish off a second bottle of wine. “What’s your Disney comfort movie?”

“No!” you groan as he starts to laugh. “You have to promise not to judge me!”

“If I didn’t judge you for that story you told me about when you were in High School, I’m not gonna judge you for anything,” he says with a small laugh as you stick your tongue out.

“Alright, my comfort movie is ‘Tangled’.”

“Never seen it.”

“What?!” you exclaim, accidentally waking Clyde as Steve bursts out laughing. “It’s such a good movie!”

“Tell me about it! Tell me why it makes you happy,” he encourages, loving seeing you riled up about it.

“My parents are still married, but my dad is kind of non-existent. It’s me, my mother, my brother, my sister, and my dad shows up when it works for him. That being said, my mother was extremely protective over me. She was controlling. Didn’t want me to cook or clean on my own, scared me into not driving too far, didn’t like me going places without her knowing, even if it was to the fucking store,” you scowl before taking a deep breath. “Anyway, it’s not like she kidnapped me or anything, but she made it so I had a sheltered life, but still expected me to take care of every thing. When I finally started to become my own person and make something of myself, she didn’t get it and there were arguments. Sure, when my dad was around, he’d sometimes take my side, but he wasn’t around enough to really do much. Watching ‘Tangled’...here’s a woman who’s in my position, and ultimately finds her way out. She’s happy and she finds someone who’s good for her. Loves her for who she is and not for what she can offer, which I believe we all really want at the end of the day,” you say more to yourself than him. “To find someone who sees us for who we are, as we are, and accepted anyway. Good and bad. When the world shuns you, or just doesn’t understand, you still want that one person who does. Flynn Ryder loves Rapunzel as she is, baggage and all, and she does the same for him. It’s a true fairy tale romance,” you smile.

“Wanna watch it after Dumbo goes off?”

“You’re not sick of me yet?”

“Not even close,” he smirks as he turns his attention towards the screen. “Oh, its already gone off,” he laughs softly.

That’s when you notice how dark it is outside.

“Shit,” you mutter as you fish your phone out of your pocket.

11:30

“Shit! Isabella’s gonna kill me!” you groan as you see the handful of missed text messages and phone calls from her.

You quickly dial the number and her phone barely rings before she answers it.

“Are you insane?!”

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry! We just started talking and lost track of time! I just realized the time,” you quickly explain, doing your best to calm her down.

“I called you and text you-”

“My phone is on silent cause I didn’t want to get a million texts from my mother. I’m sorry!”

“I should start making you work Saturdays again for this,” she mutters.

“That’s not even remotely funny.”

“It’s what you deserve, honestly. Anyway, I take it you’re still with Mr. Red, White, and Blue?”

“Yes, I’m still at Steve’s,” you chuckle as Steve shakes his head as he sips his beer.

“Planning on sitting on his face tonight or is that second date kind of thing?” she teases as Steve chokes on his beer.

“Iz!” you exclaim, mortification written all of your face as Clyde barks.

“What? It’s not like he can hear me!” she laughs.

“Yes he can!” you snap as Steve starts cracking up too.

“Oh yeah, the enhanced hearing thing. I totally paid a ton of attention in History class,” she giggles before taking a sip of what you’re assuming to be whiskey. “Well, now that you have the class’ attention-”

“I’m going now,” you quickly respond as you cover your face with your free hand.

“Remember to be safe!” she sings with a laugh.

You quickly hangup before peeking over at Steve who has a shit eating grin on his face. “Please ignore her, I tend to most of the time.”

“It’s perfectly fine,” he laughed, shaking his head.

“I am sorry though, I didn’t mean to keep you up so late, and I woke up poor Clyde,” you chuckle, petting the sweet boy, who in return just rests his head on your lap.

“I’m not. I’m having a really great time with you.”

“Yeah?”

“Mhm, seeing as you’ve gone through two bottles of wine by yourself, I’m trusting that you’re not driving home.”

“I’m gonna order a car service,” you laugh softly.

“Or you could just stay here. You can take the bed and I’ll-”

“I couldn’t do that to you.”

“There’s a spare bedroom. I’ll take that one and-”

“I should be the one to take the spare, I’m the guest.”

“My bed is comfier.”

“That’s just another reason for me to take the guest room.”

“I’ll feel better if you take my room. Giving you the better room is the least I can do after you made an amazing dinner, and groomed my dog twice in a week,” he nods, cocking his eyebrow as you laugh.

“If you insist,” you shrug with a small smile.

“I do.”

“Well, since I’m clearly not going anywhere tonight, are you up for another movie?”

“Let me make us some popcorn first.”

“I’ll clean up,” you smile, eager to get everything over and done with so you can spend more time with the man that’s somehow found a way to steal your heart.

As you two happily clean and make snacks in silence, Clyde decides he is done for the night, hopping off the sofa and slowly making his way to Steve’s room.

“I’ll make it up to him tomorrow,” he laughs as the microwave lets him know the popcorn is ready.

“I’ll cuddle him before I leave. I feel bad keeping his Dad away from him all night.”

“He’ll be okay, this is the first time its ever happened and he loves you, so I’m pretty sure it’ll all be okay,” he promises as he helps you put away the last of the dishes.

“I think it’s safe to say that this qualifies as a successful first date,” you quip, handing him the last pot.

“I think you’re right,” he agrees, putting the pot away before slowly making his way over to you, caging you in against the kitchen isle. “Thank you.”

“Mhm,” you murmur, unable to think properly with him so close to you. He smells so good, and his lips look kissable. You’re sure he can hear and feel your pulse racing through you a mile a minute.

“A first kiss is the best way to show that it’s been good first date, right?”

“Please,” you all but whisper as you wrap your arms around him.

Steve is gentle but the kiss is urgent. His lips are so soft and his beard lightly brushing against your skin in the most pleasurable way. You take the lead and slide your tongue across his bottom lip, asking for permission for more, which he grants almost instantly as his arms wrap around your waist, pulling you close to him.

You can’t remember the last time a kiss felt so all-consuming and soul stealing. In fact, you’re sure it’s never happened.

You run your hands through his hair, trying to explore as much of him as you can without going too far. You want to bottle up this moment and stay lost in it forever. Stay lost in Steve. As his hands start to roam up your back, you softly nip at his lip, and your brain lets you know that you’re going to need to stop soon if you want the night to stay PG.

It’s almost as if Steve can read your mind, because a few moments later, he’s reluctantly pulling away.

“Your lips taste like caramel,” he breathes softly, leaning his forehead against yours.

“It’s my chapstick,” you laugh breathlessly, also trying to come down from your high.

“I think we should get to that movie.”

“I think you’re right,” you smile up at him.

He kisses your forehead before letting go of you, grabbing a beer and the bowl of popcorn, and leads you back over to the sofa. The moment you two sit down, you cuddle up next to him; only slightly embarrassed to show him how much you enjoy his embrace. Steve chuckles softly, but he is happy to hold you nonetheless, pulling you close as he presses play on ‘Tangled’.

You never make it to his bedroom, because somewhere between Rapunzel finally getting to see the lanterns, and Flynn riding Maximus to Rapunzel’s tower, you fall asleep. You don’t mean to, but being in Steve’s arms is the comfiest and happiest you’ve ever been. His arms hold you like they’ve been waiting for you, and your body embraces him like he’s home.

You’ve always believed that love at first sight is total bullshit, made up for yuppies. You can’t help but feel differently now that you’ve found Steve.

You’re awoken the next morning by the soft commentary of baseball stats, and you can’t stop the smile that comes to your face.

“Please don’t tell me you stayed out here all night,” you yawn, readjusting yourself, but never breaking free of Steve’s hold.

“I was afraid to wake you up and you look so peaceful and happy when you sleep,” he explains, kissing the side of your temple.

“That’s the first time I’ve heard that,” you laugh, “where’s Clyde?”

“He’s laying down in the kitchen.”

“Has he been fed or taken for a walk?”

“It’s only 7am, babe. Everything’s fine,” he reassures with another kiss to your temple.

“Can I come with you to take him for a walk?”

“I was already planning on asking you if you wanna come with me,” he says as he pulls you a little closer. “We’ll go in 10 minutes, okay?”

“Mhm,” you nod, letting your gaze fall on the black and white baseball game being played on ESPN Classic.

You really did mean to go home after you and Steve walked Clyde, but then he talked you into staying for breakfast. Once again, you two were so caught up in talking during breakfast that neither of you noticed that it was Clyde’s playtime until he comes up to you with a ball in his mouth. So, you tell yourself that you’ll leave after playtime, but as you three head back to Steve’s apartment after an hour of playing, Bucky and Natasha invite you and Steve over to hangout since training is over. You’re hesitant at first, but slowly warm up to the idea, because both Bucky and Natasha are huge parts of Steve’s life. Well, that and you’re happy to do anything that keeps you around Steve longer.

The whole thing goes better than you expect.

“I still can’t believe you taught Steve how to make pizza,” Bucky laughs as he tosses Steve a water.

“She attempted to teach me how to make pizza,” Steve corrects as he catches the water and opens it. “I wasn’t paying much attention,” he winks at you.

You feel your whole body heat up at the comment and you turn away from him to hide your smile.

“So, how did you two meet?” Natasha asks, taking a seat next to you and handing you a glass of wine.

“I groom Clyde at Happy Tails,” you respond awkwardly, suddenly feeling very small.

A dog groomer among Superheros? You can’t help but feel a little out of place.

“I used to walk by that place all the time after The Snap!” Nat exclaims. “It was one of the few things that put a smile on my face. How long have you been a groomer?”

“In total? 8 years. At Happy Tails? 4 years, my best friend owns it. She took me on a few weeks after The Snap. She’d lost her boyfriend and just wanted to do anything to get back to normal. I was one of the very few people she’s close to that was still around, so she took me on and I worked every day. Then, when you lovely people,” you nod towards Natasha, Bucky, and Steve “reversed The Snap, she changed my schedule so that I’m off during the weekends...she also gave me a month vacation,” you laugh sheepishly before taking a sip of wine.

“I bet you didn’t give your best friend a hard time,” Natasha mutters, scowling at Steve.

“Eh, I was a little difficult at first, mainly because I was worried about her. I came around to it after a week or so. Took myself on a small vacation and slept for days.”

“See Steve? At some point, you should relax,” Bucky teases.

“I feel like I have!” he defends quickly.

“And that’s all thanks to you,” Natasha nods towards you.

As the day goes on, more of the Avengers start to filter in, and you can’t help but think that’s due to Natasha and Bucky letting everyone who walks by know that Steve and “his friend” are hanging out with them. When it starts to feel overwhelming, Steve makes his way over to you, with Clyde following behind. Subtle enough to make it seem like Steve just wants to be near you, but the look he gives you when he sits besides you is a reassuring one. You can’t help snuggle into him a little.

“So, how long have you two known each other?” Tony asks after finishing what you believe to be his third glass of bourbon.

“Uh...we met on Monday,” Steve laughs sheepishly. You can’t help but shake your head, because all of it seems crazy.

“Honestly? You two seem like you’ve known each other for years.’

“Yes,” Thor echos, bringing Steve another drink of whatever he wasn’t letting anyone besides Steve and Bucky drink. “You two seem as if your love has transcended through the eons,” he smiles at you both. “I have never seen him so happy. I am happy to meet you, Y/N,” he smiles at you as he clinks glasses with you. “This reminds me, I must call Jane. Excuse me,” he nods towards you before walking off.

You find yourself relaxing against Steve as he kisses your forehead, and for a moment you almost forget you’re in a room full of superheros. Everyone is so happy and laid back, the world isn’t on fire, and they all seem content. It doesn’t help much that Steve is on a vacation, so you don’t know how to react in those situations. Hell, you don’t know how to react to any situations involving the Avengers.

You don’t know how you’ll react.

However, you don’t think on it for too long because you can’t. Not when Steve has his arm around you, without a care, and you’re both so damn happy.

‘Tomorrow can worry about itself’ you say silently to yourself as you continue your conversation with both Wanda and Natasha about superior ice cream flavors.

“That went well,” Steve smiles as you both stumble out of Bucky and Natasha’s apartment, Clyde lazily keeping up with the both of you.

“Why, Captain Rogers, are you drunk?” you tease as you make your way inside of his apartment.

“Just a little bit,” he smirks.

“I thought you couldn’t...?”

“Nothing on earth can, but the mead from Asgard...that’s different,” he laughs. “Looks like you’re gonna be staying over again.”

“Nope, nu uh. I have to go home tonight,” you laugh, avoiding his heated gaze.

“The cost of a service back to the city is too much and it’s late. Waking up Happy seems very unfair,” Steve sighs, fake sympathy in his tone.

“Ya know, I’m starting to think you’re getting me drunk just so I’ll stay here.”

“I hadn’t thought of that, but seeing as how much you love wine and how quickly you go through it....” he smirks, wrapping his arms around you as he leans you both against the living room wall. “Stay with me tonight. I like this place a lot more with you in it.”

“Steve-”

“I know you have a life to get back to. In a week’s time, I will too,” he sighs. “I just wanna live in this a little bit more with you.”

“What happens, Steve? What happens when everything goes back to normal?”

“I’ll still want you...still want us. This isn’t something I’m doing because I’m bored, Y/N. I really like you. Much more than I anticipated, especially this fast, but I don’t want it to end. I know I don’t have the most ideal job, and asking you to stay home and not worry isn’t fair, but it’s the best I can do for now.”

“I really like you too, Steve. It honestly scares me, because I wasn’t expecting it, but I honestly...I don’t want this to be over as soon as it started.”

“Stay tonight. We don’t have to do anything, I just love being close to you. In the morning, we’ll talk about it before you leave. Is that fair?”

“Yeah,” you nod softly.

Steve lips are on yours instantly, and once again, you’re wrapped up in him. He hoists you up and you instinctively wrap your legs around him as he grips your ass. Your brain is telling you to slow down but your body eggs you on to keep going.

“Steve,” you moan breathlessly as he trails kisses down your neck, your hands running through his hair.

You’re not sure if you’re saying his name as a warning or a plea to keep going.

“I’m sorry,” he breathes out, resting his head against your chest. “You just...I can’t get enough of you,” he laughs breathlessly.

“Trust me, I understand completely.”

“Should we call it a night?”

“Can we watch a movie in bed?”

“We can do anything you want,” he smiles up at you.

He kisses you again before slowly setting you down, but both of you hold on to each other for a second longer, wanting to live in the embrace of one another.

It’s not like you’re against sex on the first or second date, but Steve isn’t just some guy. He’s taken up so much space in your heart and mind in so little time, and you’re scared. You’re not ready to give yourself to him in such a personal way when there’s so much at stake. It’s not that you doubt his feelings for you, but at the end of the day, he’s Captain America.

You swore off dating men in dangerous lines of work for a reason.

However, when you’re with him, you can’t focus on that. Your mind won’t let you. You just want him. All that he is and all that includes. You tell yourself that you’ll figure it out as you two go along, but that ends up scaring you even more. You’re so willing to go along with everything if it means being with him.

When did you become that person?

You borrow some of Steve’s clothes so you can wash your own, before getting into the shower and washing off the last two days. It’s not like they haven’t been the best two days you’ve ever had, but the reality of Steve’s words hit you hard and you just need a moment to decide if being with an Avenger really is something you can handle.

You get dressed in his boxers and S.H.I.E.L.D t-shirt before looking yourself over in the mirror.

“You can keep a level head about this, Y/N. Steve is not be all, end all of everything in your life,” you tell yourself as you take a deep breath.

You repeat that mantra as you make your way back into his bedroom, but seeing him shirtless under the covers quickly has you thinking differently.

“I can take the spare-”

“We’ve both been drinking and I wouldn’t do anything while you’re in your current condition...unless you really want me to.”

“Who says I don’t want you to tonight?”

“Y/N,” he warns; his eyes trailing over your body.

“I’ll be a good girl,” you promise with a sly smile as you get in next to him, feeling complete again.

“What do you wanna watch?”

“How do you feel about serial killer documentaries?”

“No.”

“It was worth a shot,” you laugh as he shakes his head. “Uhh, you wanna watch a black and white movie?”

“You like classic movies?”

“I’m obsessed with them, babe. We can watch ‘The Maltese Falcon’ or ‘Mr. Smith Goes To Washington’. Ooh! You know what we can watch? A ‘Gentleman’s Agreement’!” you smile as you kick your feet in excitement.

“You’re full of surprises,” he laughs as he grabs the remote and starts searching for ‘A Gentleman’s Agreement’.

“I uh...didn’t get a chance to see it when it came out,” he muses before kissing your forehead.

“Yeah, you were taking a snow nap,” you yawn as he lets out a loud chuckle.

“Shut up.”

“I saw my shot and I took it,” you smirk as you get comfortable in his hold.

You make it 30 minutes into the movie before you’re sound asleep. It’s not so much that you’re sleepy, as much as it is that you’re comfortable and feel safe. Nothing has ever felt so good.

When you wake up, the sun is shinning and Clyde is looking at you, wagging his tail.

“I think someone is ready for a walk,” you mumble lazily, a smile coming to your face as you pet the happy pup.

“Yeah, I think I’m a little late this morning,” Steve responds groggily. “In my defense, it’s been a while since I’ve had that much to drink.”

“Light weight,” you tease as you tap the bed, signaling for Clyde to jump on, which he happily does. “I think he’s happy to wait just a bit longer.”

“Good,” is all Steve says before kissing the top of your head. “Cause I need at least 10 more minutes.”

All three of you lay in bed in silence, but all of you happy and content. You don’t want the moment to end, let alone the day because you know what’s coming, but you refuse to let yourself live in a world of willful and blissful ignorance. If you’re gonna be with Steve, you’ve gotta talk to him and be upfront with him.

So, when you all get out bed 10 minutes later, you put on one of his gray army hoodies as he put on a pair of sweats and a worn army t-shirt. He grabbed Clyde’s leash and you all make your way outside.

“So, do you want me to start or do you want to?” Steve asks after the three of you have been walking in silence for 5 minutes.

“I guess...this is all happening fast. Extremely fast. I don’t want to stop seeing you, and being with the real you is probably the best thing I’ve ever done, but at the end of the day...”

“I’m an Avenger,” he sighs, running a frustrated hand through his hair. “If it makes you feel any better, I didn’t expect any of this either. I just thought I’d drop Clyde off and that would be that, but then I saw you...”

“I still don’t understand why you like me so much,” you laugh, turning away and looking around the training field.

“How could I not like you?” he scoffs. “You’re just...you’re everything I’ve been looking for and so much more. You’re so much more than I ever expected,” he finishes softly. “I know asking you to stay and figure this out with me is a lot, but I don’t want this to be over as soon as it started either,” he says, coming to a standstill.

You take a deep breath before looking at him. “I’m willing to try, Steve. I can’t promise that I won’t freak out or be irrational, because there’s always a chance that you won’t come back to me. I’m not worried about you cheating or anything like that. For some reason, completely unknown to me, I trust you. There’s just something...I just want you to come back to me, Steve. Accepting your job and all that comes with it...I’m gonna do my best,” you promise him sincerely.

“That’s all I’m asking,” he smiles at you.

The rest of the day goes by in almost a blur. Steve hands are on you whenever he has the opportunity, and you’re more than happy to allow it. You two make it a point to do very little. You just want to be with alone with each other for as much as possible. When Tony and Pepper invite you both out for lunch with them, Steve politely declines telling them that you’re almost done making lunch for them, which isn’t a lie.

When Nat and Bucky invite you both over to watch TV and play games, Steve again politely declines, letting them know that you’re in the middle of watching ‘A Gentleman’s Agreement’, since you fell asleep watching it last night.

Yes, you two are content with spending the last day of your little weekend getaway alone together. Talking, laughing, cuddling, and making out.

“Steve, I have to go,” you moan breathlessly with a small laugh as he trails kisses from your neck to clothed chest; you straddling him as you grip his shoulders tight.

“5 more minutes,” he pleads as his hands travel up your sides.

“We both know that’s not a good idea,” you moan, grinding your hips against his before you can stop yourself.

“Fuck, are we sure?”

“Steve,” you laugh, forcing yourself to stop and look down at him.

“I know, I’m sorry. Are you sure you can’t call out?”

“I can, I just shouldn’t. Bills need to get paid and clients will be pissed. Trust me, I’m not excited about setting my alarm for 5:40am,” you grumble, leaning your forehead against his. “I’m mainly not excited about being away from you. I really don’t want to remember what it’s like to sleep alone.”

“I can come over tonight.”

“I don’t want you getting sick of me so quickly.”

“Does it look like that’ll be happening any time soon?”

“Come and see me on Tuesday and we’ll do dinner,” you smile at him.

“I’m cooking this time.”

“What? Popcorn?”

“Ha ha, you’re so funny,” he fake laughs “I’ll think of something.”

“I’m excited to find out,” you smile before giving him a quick kiss on the lips and getting up.

“Text me when you get home.”

“I promise. Where are my clothes? I should change-”

“Your clothes are in my bedroom, and I’ll happily get them for you, but I want you to keep on what you have.”

“Steve, they’re-”

“I like seeing you in my clothes,” he smirks with a wink before getting up and following you to his bedroom.

“You’re nothing but trouble,” you giggle as you grab your clothes off of his bed.

“I’m the best kind of trouble,” he taunts, wrapping his arms around your waist from behind. “Are you sure you can’t stay just a little bit longer?”

“I gotta go, baby,” you tell him mournfully.

You really don’t wanna leave his side.

“Tuesday better hurry the hell up and get here,” he grunts as you giggle.

“Walk me to my car?”

“I was already planning on it.”

You give Clyde a big hug and a few pats on his head before heading out, Steve holding your hand tight. He presses soft kisses to your forehead as you both ride the elevator down, and you’re so tempted to pull out your phone and tell Isabella that you won’t be coming in. But you know better.

You can’t wrap your whole life around Steve Rogers. No matter how much you like him.

“You promise to let me know when you’re home safe?” he asks as you two stop at your car.

“Mhm, the moment I walk through the door.”

“You promise I can come and see you on Tuesday?”

“I’ll be offended if you don’t.”

“I’m holding you to that,” Steve smiles before leaning in for a kiss.

You wrap your arms around him, letting yourself get lost in Steve Rogers once again, before you hear the cheers and applause.

“That’s it! Kiss her like you mean it, Cap!” Tony calls from the doorway, and you can’t help but laugh as you two breakaway from one another.

“Fuck yeah!” Clint follows up.

“Language!” Steve calls back, causing you to laugh even harder. “I’m so sorry about this,” he sighs, his embarrassment very apparent.

“I’d be insulted if I didn’t get the royal send off,” you laugh softly in his ear. “I really don’t wanna leave you,” you whisper.

“You’re really good at making ‘goodbyes’ hard,” he scoffs.

“Just wait until you leave me for a mission.”

“Y/N,” he whines and you can’t help but laugh. “You need to get out of here before I get you to stay.”

“A very large part of me wants you to make me.”

“Nothing but trouble,” he smirks down at you.

“Tuesday,” you giggle. “I wanna see you and I’m looking forward to a great dinner.”

“I...” Steve bites his tongue and you can tell that he’s not saying what he really wants to say. “I can’t wait to see you again.”

You cock an eyebrow but don’t press the matter. “Counting down, baby,” you smile before giving him a quick kiss and getting into your car.

Fuck, you love him.

You love him so much and it terrifies you, but you’ll be dammed if you admit it before he does.

Your drive home is quick and fast, as you do your best to silence your mind. You don’t want to focus on Steve, but you can’t stop yourself. You don’t want to stop yourself.

“It took you long enough,” Steve chuckles as he answers your call.

“It’s not my fault that the closer you get to the city, the less people know how to drive...and walk” you retort as you kick your shoes off. “I wanted to call you on the way home.”

“Then why didn’t you?”

“I wanted to give you space.”

“Out of all of the things that you can ever give me, space isn’t something you need to worry about.”

“You say that now-”

“Y/N, I like you. I like you a lot. I’m not going to tell you things because I think you want to hear them. I tell you because I want you to know just how serious I am and I want us to be on the same page. I’m not gonna get tired of you.”

You’re thoughtful before you speak. “I like you a lot too, Steve,” you smile, sitting on your sofa.

“What are you thinking about right now?”

“How badly I want you to come over,” you laugh and he laughs with you. “I know we need our space and to have our own lives, but you’re not always going to be on vacation. You’re gonna go on missions, go to Washington, do appearances...I literally just spent my weekend with you though,” you groan, slouching down into the cushions.

“All you have to do is ask,” he practically hums.

“No,” you sigh, “this is fine. I have to get used to not being able to see you whenever I want.”

“You’re so cute when you’re at war with yourself,” he laughs.

“I guess I’ll be cute forever, cause baby, when I tell you it never ends...” you sigh as he lets out a full bodied laugh.

You two talk until you force yourself into bed. You’re both reluctant to hangup and you swear you’re in High School all over again, in love for the very first time.

“I just met you on Monday,” you yawn, wrapping the covers around you tight. “What the hell is happening to me?” you yawn again, fighting off sleep the best you can.

“Believe me, I feel the same,” Steve laughs softly. “Get some sleep, baby. I’ll talk to you in the morning.”

“I keep thinking this is a dream,” you respond lazily.

“I promise it isn’t.”

“Goodnight babe.”

“Goodnight Doll.”

The next day you can’t stop smiling. Even after getting stuck with the world’s worst Pomeranian.

“Okay, you’ve got to tell me what happened this weekend!” Isabella laughs as you two leave for lunch.

“I just...I’m fairly positive I’m in love,” you shrug, shaking your head in disbelief.

“You?!”

“I know! I don’t know what happened! We just clicked and we talked for hours...he’s so funny! He’s funny, thoughtful, considerate, caring, insanely sweet, he loves Clyde so damn much, and I swear his kisses send me to heaven each time,” you groan as you two reach your favorite Chinese takeout spot.

“How’s the...”

“We haven’t had sex yet,” you laugh, before placing your order.

Isabella places her order before turning to you wide eyed. “I’m sorry, you spent all weekend with that fine ass man and didn’t-”

“This is different,” you sigh as you two step to the side and wait for your orders. “I’ve never fallen this fast and this hard. I can’t just jump into this mindlessly because my vagina gets extremely excited every time he’s around,” you scoff. “Besides, lets not all forget that he’s an Avenger. The Avenger.”

“I know, but babe, I’ve known you forever. I’ve never seen you this happy or excited. I can tell that you’ve been thinking about him all day, cause that smile hasn’t let your face all day,” she laughs as you turn your head away, trying to hide smile. “I know it isn’t ideal, but love isn’t always ideal. Trust me, I would know,” she chuckles and you know she’s referring to her and Isaiah’s whimsical romance. “Have you told him?”

“What? That I love him? Fuck no!” you laugh as your orders are called out. “I’m not saying it before he does. That’s one thing I’m not budging on.”

“That’s the only thing?”

“Well...yeah. We made it official before I left, so...I guess I have a boyfriend?” you laugh.

“Ahhh!!! I’m so happy for you!” she exclaims as you two walk out and take a seat at the table outside.

“We’ll see,” you smile, opening your container of steamed dumplings. “Hey, do you and Isaiah wanna come over tomorrow? Steve’s coming over and making dinner.”

“Are you serious?”

“Yeah, I mean, I spent Saturday meeting everyone who matters to him, so I think he should meet one of the most important people in my life,” you smile at her as your phone rings. “Hold on to whatever you have,” you smile before answering. “Hello?”

“How much longer will you be at work?” Steve all but whines as you laugh.

“I work from open to close, babe.”

“Every day?”

“What can I say? I’m dedicated,” you laugh.

“Are you sure you’ll be up for dinner tomorrow?”

“Yeah! It’ll just be late. I’ll leave the key on top of the door frame for you. I’m usually home by 7-7:30 any way, as long as my last dog isn’t a big dog.”

“Clyde is always your last dog,” Steve groans and you can tell he feels bad.

“That’s because I love Clyde, so I don’t mind.”

“I miss you.”

“I miss you too, baby,” you sigh as Isabella just grins at you from the other side of the table. “Hey, speaking of tomorrow, are you okay with Isabella and her boyfriend having dinner with us?”

“I’d love it, I wanna get to know the people in your life,” he says as your heart soars, elated by his response.

“You’re amazing,” you smile. “I have to start getting back though. I’ll call you when I get home, okay baby?”

“I’ll be waiting. I lo...I’ll talk to you later,” he quickly corrects.

“I’ll talk to you late,” you hum before hanging up. “He almost said it!” you practically scream as Isabella bursts out laughing.

“Oh, I can’t wait for tomorrow,” she grins.

“Just tell Isaiah not to fangirl,” you mumble and Isabella giggles.

“I’ll tell him to be on his best behavior.”

The rest of the day drags on and you know it’s only because you’re anxious to see Steve tomorrow. You feel your phone buzz every once in a while and you know it’s him. Missing you just as much as you miss him. By the time it’s time to close shop, you’re rushing around to clean and get everything in place.

“Jesus, you really are all in with this man, aren’t you?” Isabella laughs as she closes up the shop.

“It’s that obvious, huh?” you scoff as you wait for her to lock the door.

“I’m not gonna lie, I was waiting for you to call out.”

“I almost did, but I don’t wanna be all about Steve. I don’t care how much I love him. I still want us to have our own lives...our own interests.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this cautious or in love. I can’t put into words how happy I am for you,” she beams as you two start on the short trek home.

“It’s terrifying. Loving him is so terrifying and I can’t stop it...I also don’t want to.”

“Just take it one day at a time. You’re both figuring it out and that’s all you can really do.”

“I guess...God, I can’t wait to see him tomorrow,” you whine as Isabella laughs.

“Who knew your soulmate would, technically, be over 100 years old? We just needed to be patient,” she smiles as you burst out laughing.

“I hate you.”

“You hate me so much that you can’t wait to see me tomorrow,” she knowingly smirks as you two make your way inside and get on the elevator. “What time should we be over tomorrow? Should we bring anything?”

“Nah, I’m fine in all departments, just bring yourselves. I guess just come over when you’re comfy? Shower and all that stuff, get changed, and head up. I don’t want anyone making a fuss; we’ve had dinner at my place a million times.”

“Yeah, but now you have a boyfriend,” she sings as the elevator arrives at her floor.

“I do, don’t I?”

“You lucky bitch,” she laughs, stepping out as the doors close.

The minute you’re in your apartment, you call Steve.

“You’ve worked all day. Truly, from start to finish,” he huffs as soon as he answers the phone.

“You fight intergalactic monsters, I don’t wanna hear it,” you laugh softly as you throw your keys down and take your hair tie out. “Did you have a good day? From the looks of the texts you sent me, Clyde had the best day.”

“I think someone is still riding the high of this past weekend,” he chuckles and you know he’s looking at Clyde. “My day was good though. They let me work a little bit today, because we have a mission coming up.”

“Oh,” is all you said as you plopped down on the sofa.

“Baby...we still have time. I’m still on vacation.”

“That’s gonna come to an end soon.”

“Y/N-”

“I don’t wanna think about it, Steve. I just...I didn’t you’d be thrown right back into it so soon and I don’t know why. I thought I’d have at least...it doesn’t matter. I’m with you...I’m your girlfriend.”

“You don’t have to sound so depressed about it.”

“I’m the one who has to deal with you possibly not coming back home.”

“I will always come back to you, Y/N.”

“Don’t do that. Don’t make promises that you aren’t sure you can keep.”

“You are my endgame. You are my home. I will always come back to you. I haven’t had someone to fight for in a long time, but now that I have you...I’m not going anywhere,” he promises softly.

“Steve,” you sigh, running a frustrated hand through your hair “can’t you just do desk work?”

“I belong on the field, babe.”

“Fine. Whatever. I don’t wanna talk about it anymore,” you snipe.

“The conversation doesn’t end because you don’t wanna talk about it anymore, Doll.”

“I warned you that I’m not the most agreeable person.”

“And I told you the same. We’re not done talking about this-”

“Steve-”

“No, tell what you’re thinking.”

“I’m pretty sure it’s fucking obvious what I’m thinking!” you snap. “You’re not a cop or a fucking firefighter, Steve! You’re an Avenger! You’ll have missions that will require you to leave this planet! I don’t want that! I want you here, next to me every day and night! I want to be able to talk to you whenever I want, not having to wait weeks or months to tell you about the most mundane things or hear about your day!”

“You said-”

“I know what I said, Steve,” you scowl, getting more fed up with yourself than him.

“Do you want to just stop this-”

“No, because I’m too wrapped up in you now. Too wrapped up in us. I just need time. It’s a lot that you’re asking me to take on.”

“I don’t want to hurt you or stress you.”

“At this point, I think being without you would do more harm than good.”

“Y/N, I lo-”

“Don’t say it now, please,” you beg softly.

“Then when?”

“When you’re back from this mission.”

“I don’t leave for another two weeks, well, I’m not supposed to leave for another two weeks.”

“Steve,” you groan.

“I want to be up front with you. You told me that’s what you want and I’m trying-”

“I know,” you sigh. “I know.”

Steve is thoughtful before he speaks again. “How was work?”

“It’s Monday, so by default, it sucked,” you laugh softly as you change into his shirt.

“On a scale of 1 to 10?”

“A demon Pomeranian bit me 3 times before 10am.”

“Can’t you turn away bad dogs?”

“I can, but I never do. If I don’t groom it, someone else will and I feel bad for them.”

“You’re insane.”

“You don’t seem to mind,” you chuckle as you settle into bed and turn on the TV. “What are you having for dinner?”

“The pasta Bucky and I practiced making,” he laughs and you can tell he’s less than impressed with it.

“I’m sure whatever you make tomorrow is gonna be great.”

“Just know that I’m keeping it simple.”

“You know how much I love simplicity, baby.”

“And that’s why I lo...like you. What are you doing for dinner?”

“Nothing. I made the mistake of eating lunch and I’m good.”

“Babe, you need to eat.”

“I’m not hungry.”

“I know, but you can’t live off one meal a day. Well,” he starts before you have a chance to interrupt “you shouldn’t.”

“Anything I make I won’t finish.”

“I know you have some microwavable dinner in your freezer,” he scowls.

“I don’t want to-”

“I know you don’t, but can you just do it for me?”

“Fine,” you mutter, getting out of bed and begrudgingly making your way to the kitchen.

“Is our first argument really going to be out me going on a mission then begging you to eat dinner?” he questions in disbelief.

“Yup.”

“Baby, stop it. I’m just looking out for you.”

“I know you are and I know I’m being a bitch. I just really don’t want you to go on this mission.”

“You know I have to.”

“Steve...”

“What can I do to make this better? In this moment, what will make you happy?”

“You being here,” you mutter before you can stop yourself. “No, you can’t come here-”

“What’s your address?”

“No, I need to-”

“Why wait until tomorrow? I can be there in no time at all.”

“Because, when you’re on a mission, I won’t be able to see you whenever I want.”

“But you can now, so we should see each other as much as we can.”

“No, I’ll wait until tomorrow,” you sigh as you take out a small container of Stouffer’s lasagna. “I can’t just make my whole life about my boyfriend.”

“Us wanting to be together is normal. We are a couple and couples want to spend time together.”

“We’re not a regular couple.”

“That’s what makes this so much fun,” he teases as your microwave alerts you; letting you know that you’re food is ready. “Just take a few bites of it, please?”

“4 bites are all you’re gonna get out of me. Rogers.”

“4 bites are better than nothing. I know you’re leaving the key out for me, but is there any specific time you want me there?”

“Whenever you think is best.”

“I can leave right now if you give me your address.”

“Steve,” you laugh. “I don’t know, whatever works for you.”

“What are you so afraid of?”

“You know what I’m afraid of. You might not come home to me one day.”

“You know what I mean. This past weekend you were fine with us spending every second together and now-”

“Because this past weekend was a bubble. I didn’t expect reality to hit so fast and so hard. I have to get used to it. I have to get used to you being in another country sometimes. Hell, another fucking planet,” you mutter, taking your food out of the microwave.

“Okay, but it’s because of that, that we should see each other as much as possible. There are gonna be times when I’m away for weeks at a time and can’t get in touch with you. When I’m home, I want to be with you as much as possible.”

“Steve, I’m trying. I just thought we’d have a little more time to live in our own little world.”

“We still do.”

“I feel like this is easier for you because you don’t have to worry about me -”

“That’s what you don’t get,” he chuckles humorlessly. “I’m always going to be worried about you. I’m always going to want to save you, always going to want to make sure there’s no imminent threat to or against you...Y/N, I’m always going to worry and I don’t you fully understand that. I don’t think you fully understand what being with me means. Before it was just the world, now, you are my world. Whenever I’m out there fighting, I’ll be fighting for you. To keep you safe. This isn’t easy for me at all,” he sighs heavily.

In this moment, it hits you.

Steve is always ready to fight crime and save the world. He’s always ready to go on a mission that he may not come back from. Now that you’re in his life, the game has changed completely, and he’s truly at your mercy. He’ll do any and every thing to keep you safe from everything that could hurt you.

Without giving it a second thought, you give him your address. “I’ll see you when you get here, 13th floor, apartment 1346.”

“I can’t wait to hold you,” is all he says before hanging up.

If you didn’t feel terrible about being a bitch earlier, you sure as shit do now. How could you not think of that? How could you be so blind to the fact that Steve now has added pressure?

You sigh in frustration as you poke at your dinner. You contemplate eating the whole thing just to make him happy, but settle on eating half of it.

You’re in the middle of playing ‘Crash Bandicoot N-Sane Trilogy’ when you hear a soft knock on your door. You almost forget to pause you’re in such a rush to answer it.

“I’m sorry,” is all you say when you open the door, before wrapping your arms around him.

“No, I’m sorry. I know this isn’t easy and I know what I’m asking isn’t fair,” he responds softly into your hair before kissing it.

“Can you stay tonight?”

“I can do whatever you want me to, Doll.”

You stay in his embrace a little bit longer before quickly ushering him inside, not wanting him to be seen or bothered by any of your neighbors.

“So, this is your place huh?” he smiles, looking around. “It suites you.”

“I don’t know if that’s good or bad,” you laugh, closing the door and going into your kitchen, wrapping up what was left of your lasagna.

“You ate half?”

“I felt bad,” you sigh, putting it in the fridge.

“I don’t want to go, but I want to keep you safe.”

“I don’t want to talk about it, Steve.”

“I know you don’t but we need to.”

“Why?”

“Because if we’re going to be together, I need you to accept that this comes with it. Me being an Avenger.”

“Just because I don’t like it doesn’t mean I’m not accepting it,” you bite.

Steve sighs and places his hands on his hips. “How long are you going to be upset about this?”

“I’m going to be upset every time you leave and I think that’s pretty fair.”

“Yeah, I guess so,” he shrugs, accepting the fact he’s not gonna get the outcome he wants as he sits on your sofa. “Are you too mad at me to let me hold you?”

“No,” you mumble as you sit on his lap and curl up against him. “I missed you.”

“I missed you too, baby,” he coos as he rubs your back. “What are you playing?”

“Crash Bandicoot.”

“I’m afraid I don’t know that one,” he laughs.

“It’s currently pissing me off. I keep dying at the same part and I can’t seem to unlock the part of my brain that remembers how I beat this as a child.”

“Can I watch you play?”

“You mean, can you watch me lose my shit? Sure,” you scoffs as he chuckles.

Steve can’t help but laugh every time you get frustrated after getting killed by a barrel full of waste, but he genuinely feels bad when you’re so close to finally winning, but fall into a pool of acid.

“I hate this stupid game,” you mutter as you toss the controller onto your coffee table.

“Then why do you keep playing it?”

“Because I love it,” you groan, leaning into him as he lets out a hearty laugh.

“Oh hush, where’s my best boy?”

“He’s with Buck and Nat, I actually wanted to ask you about that by the way.”

“Hmm?” you question, straddling him.

“When I leave, would you mind looking after him? I’ll feel a lot better if I know he’s with you. You can even stay at my place if you want.”

“I’ll be more than happy to watch him. In all honesty, it’ll probably help me just as much as it’ll help you,” you smirk, wrapping your arms around him.

“You are so beautiful,” he says so softly it’s practically a whisper.

“You think so?”

“Mhm, and I really love that you’re gonna sleep in my shirt,” he husks as he grips your thighs.

“Steve,” you moan softly.

“I love the way my name sounds coming from your lips.”

“I love the way you make me feel.”

“Yeah? Then show me,” he husks.

Without any hesitation, you kiss him deeply, pulling him as close to you as possible. Your tongues dance together as Steve’s hands slowly travel under your shirt.

“Steve...wait,” you breathe out, breaking away from him.

“I’m sorry, I-”

“No...I want to. God, you have no idea how badly I want to, I just...”

“Are you a virgin?”

“Ha, not in the slightest,” you laugh awkwardly. “This is...you’re different. The way I feel about you, the way we feel about each other...it’s so much so fast, and I’m just a little nervous to be that intimate with you so soon.”

“We can take this at whatever pace you want, Sweetheart. I’m just happy to be with you.”

“I feel bad because I keep giving you boners and then stopping,” you huff as Steve bursts out laughing.

“I’m a patient man, don’t worry baby,” he smiles before pulling you close kissing you deeply.

“Isaiah’s working overnight and I’m...oh,” Isabella stops short as she freezes in your doorway. “I’m so sorry, I can-”

“No, you’re fine,” you chuckle as Steve laughs softly.

Isabella looks over you two and raises an eyebrow. “You sure?”

“Yes,” you laugh, getting off of Steve who quickly readjusts his pants. “You wanna hangout?”

“Well...yeah. I brought booze and chips,” she sighs, holding up a bottle of whiskey and a bag of your favorite chips. “I can go away though-”

“Please, it’s really okay,” Steve promises sincerely as you go into the kitchen and grab glasses.

“You were playing Crash?!” she exclaims, making her way inside after she closes the door behind her.

“Horribly,” you mutter, making your way back into your living area and setting the glasses down.

“Can I try?”

“Please do, cause I’m ready to throw the damn thing out the window.”

“I think that has more to do with you being burned out than playing the game,” she corrects as she hits the ‘X’ button on the controller and starts the game.

“Don’t start,” you huff, sitting on the other side of her, arms crossed.

“You have a man now, go on vacation.”

“My man is going on a mission, so I’ll just be lonely.”

“Booo!”

“Please don’t encourage her,” he groans, “she needs no help with being mad at me.”

“Can’t you do desk work or something?”

“See?!” you exclaim as Steve shakes his head.

“I’m in for a long night,” he sighs.

As the night goes on, you’re surprised by just how relaxed Steve and Isabella are around each other, and it makes you smile. You don’t care much for anyone’s approval, but Isabella knows you better than anyone else. If she didn’t like him, you’d probably have to give things a second thought.

“Alright lovebirds, I gotta go, I decided to have hops and dreams, and as a result; I know have a store to run tomorrow,” Isabella whines as she puts down the controller. “Besides, I’ve been here for 2 hours. I’m sure you two would love to get back to not having sex.”

“You’re so funny,” you smile sarcastically, flipping her off as Steve laughs softly and shakes his head. “Besides, I’m opening the store with you, so I should go-”

“Take the day. Hell, take the week.”

“Iz, I can’t just-”

“I’m the owner of the store and I’m telling you to take time off. Spend as much time as you can together before he leaves,” she smiles softly.

“That’s so funny, cause I said the same thing,” Steve says matter-of-factly, a shit eating grin tugging at his lips.

“Hush you,” you tease, sticking your tongue out at him. “Iz, my dogs-”

“Can go to Jazz, Lisa, myself, and whoever else wants to make extra money. If the owners get pissy, they can just reschedule,” she shrugs.

“Are you sure?”

“It’s fine, babygirl. Take the much deserved break and when Mr. Stars and Stripes go on his mission, I’ll let you bury yourself in work, okay?”

“I love you.”

“I love you too, crazy,” she laughs before dipping down and kissing the top of your head. “Rogers, I’m expecting a gourmet meal tomorrow.”

“Just what I needed, pressure,” he scoffs.

“Aren’t I a dream?” she smiles coyly. “Bye kids,” she sings as she makes her way out of your apartment.

“Well, what do you feel like doing?” Steve asks, a smile plastered to his face, as he pulls you back in his lap.

“Wanna watch a movie with me in bed?”

“One of my favorite things to do.”

Steve helps you clean up around the apartment, before you lead him to your bedroom and you both hop into bed. You get 20 minutes into the ‘The Maltese Falcon’ before you’re fast asleep, happy to be back in Steve’s arms and so close to him.

When you wake up, you hear Steve on the phone in the hallway and he sounds irritated.

“Yeah well, it’s gonna have to wait until I get back....Nick, you all forced me on this vacation and now you’re forcing me out of it...what’s changed?! You said...the end of this week? That’s too soon! Yeah well, I’m not gonna be back until tomorrow, so I guess we’ll figure it out then,” he husks angrily before hanging up and making his way back into your bedroom. He lets out a heavy sigh when he sees you sitting up. “How much of that did you hear?

“Enough,” you respond so softly you’re not entirely sure he hears you.

“I’m sorry-”

“Please don’t,” you sniffle out, fighting back tears. ‘Stop it, there’s no need for tears,’ you tell yourself mentally.

“Please don’t cry.”

“You have to go and train, don’t you?”

“I’m not going back until tomorrow.”

You pull your legs up to your chest and rest your head on your knees. “We can go back tonight after dinner.”

“Y/N no-”

“Don’t make this any harder than it already is, Steve. It’s not like either of us stomping our feet will make it any better. Let’s just...we’ll face it head on.”

“I’m so sorry,” he says sympathetically, his showing genuine sorrow as gets in next to you. He pulls you close and kisses the top of your head. “I’ll make this up to you.”

“How?” you scoff in sheer annoyance. “How can you make this up to me? You’re an Avenger and I have to share you with the world. I just have to accept that,” you sigh, breaking out of his hold and getting up. “I have to take a shower,” is all you say as you leave the room.

It’s not like you don’t hear how much of a bitch you’re being, and you know he feels terrible, but everything is just happening so fast. You went from thinking you’d have a week of having him to yourself and two weeks of being able to see him while he trains, to thinking that you’ll have him to yourself for a week, to now having to having to make the most out of what little time you can spend together before he leaves for God knows how long at the end of the week.

You can’t help but be a little hurt and upset.

You turn your shower on as hot as you can stand it and let yourself get lost in the heat. You don’t want to be angry with Steve, you don’t want to be a bitch, and don’t want to spend the week arguing. You just wanna be with the man who stole your heart and soul.

“Do you want me to go?” Steve asks from the doorway.

“No,” you sigh, running your hand through your hair. “I want you to come in.”

You hear the door open and close and he leans against it. “Y/N, I’m yours. Yeah, I’m an Avenger, but I’m also Steve. Your Steve. I told you, while I’m out there doing whatever I have to do, I have you in mind and you only. I’m coming home to you.”

“Do you know how long you’ll be gone for?” you ask as you pour soap into your towel before starting to wash yourself.

“Tony thinks it’ll be about a month. Depending on how bad things are, it may be longer, but that’s why they want me back now. The sooner we leave the better.”

“Of course it’s a fucking month,” you mutter, scrubbing your skin a little rough than you mean to. “I’m sorry, Steve. For being a bitch...just walking out like that. It’s not healthy and it’s been a while since I’ve done this. I’m going to do my best to make the best out of the time we have before I have to just...wait for you,” you shrug, your heart feeling heavy at the weight of your words, as you wash the soap off your body.

“If it makes you feel any better, I’m going to miserable the entire time.”

“That doesn’t make me feel better, baby,” you scoff, scrubbing your feet, trying to keep your balance. “I just want you to focus and come home to me.”

“It’s gonna be okay, just trust me,” Steve promises as you turn off the water.

“Can you pass me my towel?” you ask, holding out your hand from behind the shower curtain.

“Do you believe me?” he asks as hands you a towel.

“I want to,” you confess as you wrap the towel around you “but you can’t guarantee me that you’ll be safe. That you’ll be okay,” you finish as you pull back your shower curtain. “But I’m in this. I’m all in with you and I’ll figure out a way to deal with this without being such an asshole all the time.”

“In your defense, it is a lot to ask of you in such a short time, and I know you’re trying your best,” he smiles softly as he makes his way over to you, wrapping his arms around you. “We don’t have to go back tonight.”

“I don’t want Nick Fury hating me on top of every thing else,” you chuckle softly. “We’ll do dinner and I’ll pack some clothes after, then...”

“Then comes the beginning of the hard part.”

You stay in his embrace for a little longer before deciding it’s time to start the day. You quickly make your way into your bedroom as Steve sits in the living room and waits for you. You throw on some underwear and a pair of shorts and your ‘Hello Kitty’ vans shirt, before putting your hair up in a ponytail.

“What are you making for dinner, babe?” you call from your bedroom, searching for your corgi socks.

“Chicken parm and spaghetti. Bucky and I made it at least 10 times last night,” he laughs.

“Look at you, trying to be Gordon Ramsey! I’m so touched,” you tease, finally finding your socks and putting them on before walking out. “You’re gonna need to go grocery shopping though, because I don’t have any breading...or chicken.”

“I guess that would be a key part in the whole chicken part of the chicken parm,” he nods. “Do you wanna go with me?”

“Out in public?”

“That’s where grocery stores tend to be, Doll,” Steve chuckles. “I understand if you don’t want to I just thought I’d ask. It’s a lot and things will change for you...a lot.”

“You like me enough to be seen with me in public?”

“Do you like me enough to be seen with me in public?” he questions with a nervous laugh.

“Lets do this,” you smile softly.

You both put on caps and sunglasses before you toed your shoes on and made your way out. Between the extreme anxiety you feel and commentary going on inside your head, you’re not sure if people actually recognize him as you two take the short walk to the grocery store.

Then you get inside.

“Is that Captain America?”

“Can’t be, he doesn’t have a girlfriend...does he?”

“Do you think he’d date someone like her?”

“You mean someone no one knows or someone with tattoos?”

“No way...can’t be him, not with her.”

“I hear them too, babe. Just take a deep breath,” he encourages as you squeeze his hand tight.

“Apparently I’m not worthy of being seen with you,” you gripe as two look over the chicken selection.

“Stop it, that’s bullshit and you know it.”

“I feel sick.”

“The first time is the hardest part, babe. We’re practically done. Just relax, honey,” he tries to calm you, but you can tell that he’s even losing his resolve as more people start to murmur.

“You can’t lose your cool, babe.”

“I don’t like how they’re talking about you.”

“Me neither, but you’re Captain America.”

“I’m your boyfriend before I’m anything else.”

“Aw, you think I’m that special?” you tease, looking up at him with a huge smile on your face.

“Stop asking questions you already know the answer to,” he smirks down at you.

Without thinking, you get on your tip toes and give him a quick kiss on the lips.

“Well, if there was any confusion it’s cleared up now,” he chuckles as you giggle to yourself.

“Lets finish up and go home, okay?”

“Sounds good to me.”

The both of you stop being so picky and pick up the few items you need and make your way over to self checkout. You hear people taking pictures and groan as you bury your face into Steve’s muscle and he laughs.

“At least you never have to doubt just how serious I am about us.”

“It’s not that. My mother is gonna see these and kill me,” you huff and Steve lets out a full body laugh.

The walk home is quick and Steve makes sure to shield you from prying eyes. In some ways, you think that maybe it is too early to go public, but you’re happy to have it out of the way before he leaves. When he comes back from his mission, you just want to be with him completely. Having to deal with all of the emotions you know you’ll feel when he comes back and going out in public together for the first time would have been overwhelming. Getting everything that’s messy and complicated out of the way now, will make everything that happens after he comes home much easier.

However, you’re still not ready for him to tell you that he loves you, even though you’re desperate to hear it.

“I don’t think that was too terrible,” Steve shrugs as you both make your way inside you’re apartment.

“Except for the part where you were ready to yell at the whole store,” you scoff, kicking off your shoes before taking off your hat and sunglasses.

“You’re my girl and I don’t want anyone talking bad about you,” he says as if it’s the most simple thing in the world.

“C’mon babe, even you have to admit that you didn’t see yourself falling for someone like me,” you laugh, leaning against your sofa.

“Whether I did or didn’t, you are who I’ve fallen for, and I want everyone treating you with kindness and respect,” he smirks, making his way over to you and wrapping his arms around you. “And can I just say how happy I am that I’ve fallen for you?”

“Yeah?”

“You’re the one I’ve been waiting for forever,” he confesses softly before kissing you deeply.

You swear you can live in his kisses forever.

“Now, Mr. Rogers, you have a dinner you need to get started on,” you breathe with a small laugh as you two breakaway from one another.

“It can wait a little bit longer,” he husks before crashing his lips into yours again.

You don’t make any attempt to stop him this time, tired of fighting something you both want. Instead, you wrap your arms around his neck and pull him closer to you, your right leg wrapping around his waist as both of his arms wrap around you. You start running your hands through his hair, pulling him impossibly close as he squeezes your hips tight. You let out a silent moan as he trails kisses from your lip to your neck.

“Steve...please,” you beg softly, once again, not entirely sure what you’re begging him for. His only response is to nibble on your neck as his fingers start fumble with the button on your shorts. “Need...I need it. Just need you,” you whimper pathetically.

You both groan in frustration when his phone starts going off, knowing it’s a call he can’t ignore.

“Fuck,” you mutter as you slowly let go of him.

“I don’t have to take it,” he breathes against your neck.

“Baby, we both know you do.”

“Okay, let me amend that, I don’t want to answer it.”

“You have a job to do, baby,” you laugh softly, unwrapping your leg from around his waist. “Besides, knowing all the things I have planned for you, it’s probably best that we don’t start that now.”

“You can’t say things like that and expect me to want to take work calls,” he whines as you laugh.

“Get to saving the planet,” you nudge softly.

“Fine,” he sighs reluctantly before breaking away and pulling his phone out of his pocket, as he makes his way into the kitchen. “What?” he huffs angrily; answering the call he never wanted.

You chuckle softly as you get up and turn on your TV, before turning on your PS4, readying yourself for another frustrating round of Crash Bandicoot.

When you hear Steve get into another heated disagreement with whoever is on the other end of his phone, you decide that it’s best for you to keep your distance. You know why he’s pissed because you’re pissed about the same thing, but your resolution to the situation won’t help anything.

“I don’t give a damn, Buck. I was given until the end of the week and now they’re trying to force me back now...no, they can wait for me to come back. We’re coming back...yes, we’re coming back tonight...she’s my girl and she has a say in this...well, you have a Nat, of course you don’t understand...I don’t care if any of you do or don’t understand it...I love her, Buck. The least I can do is not rip myself away from her right as I’m asking her to trust me...yeah, we went to the grocery store together....it’s the goddamn grocery store, people would’ve taken pictures with or without me being there with her...well, you all can deal with it without me being there. I’ll be there soon enough and everyone can bitch me out then,” Steve huffs angrily before hanging up.

Your heart swells as you try to ignore the fact that he just told his best friend that he loves you.

He loves you.

“Okay, I think I can make this without your help, but...just in case I do,” Steve starts as he makes his way into the living room. “wait until you smell something burning before you come running in. It’ll help soften the blow to my ego,” he smiles softly.

“Steve, am I getting you into trouble?”

“You heard that?”

“Only bits and pieces...it sounds like I got you into trouble.”

“You didn’t get me in trouble, babe,” he sighs, sitting down next to you, wrapping his arm around you and pulling you close.

“Are we moving too fast?”

“Doesn’t feel like it to me. I wish I could stay, God, you don’t know just how badly I want to stay. I finally feel like I belong somewhere and that didn’t happen until I met you.”

“You’re sure? You’re you want this? Want me?”

“Hey, come here,” he states softly, reaching over and grabbing your thigh so he can pull you onto his lap so that you’re straddling him. “Of course I’m sure. Yeah, it’s been a week, but why does that matter? I’m pretty sure we feel the same way about each other, so everyone else can deal with it. Yeah, it’s gonna take some getting used to and some adjusting, but I’m happy. I’m so damn happy with you. I want this. I want us. I want you,” he promises before taking your hand in his and kissing your palm.

“I’m really happy you adopted Clyde,” is all you can think to say, feeling overwhelmed by his words, as he starts laughing.

“Me too.”

“A month without you?”

“I promise, the minute I’m back home, you and Clyde will have all of my attention.”

“I’m gonna hold you to that,” you chuckle softly.

“So...what else did you hear?” Steve questions, placing another soft kiss into your palm.

“Not much,” you lie, turning away slightly as you try and stop a smile from spreading across your face.

“Mhm, sure didn’t,” he laughs before pulling you close and kissing you deeply.

You two make-out for a while before you feel his hands travel back down to your shorts, and you force the both of you to stop. You’re more than sure that dinner won’t happen if you get him on your bed. So, he reluctantly forces himself away from you and force your attention on Crash Bandicoot.

You’re sure you’ve never played the game so well.

When Isabella and Isaiah show up, you do your best to mask every negative emotion you’re feeling, knowing Isabella will go toe to toe with Nick Fury herself if it means you’ll be happy. While Steve finishes up dinner and Isaiah sets up the table, you practically force Isabella to help you beat another level on Crash.

“So, uh, you see the news lately?” she asks as she tries to avoid rocks being thrown at her by a muscled up fox.

“Yup,” you laugh softly, knowing exactly where the conversation is heading.

“Seems that Captain America has a new girlfriend.”

“I heard about that.”

“So, you two are officially official?”

“Yes we are,” you smile softly, mainly to yourself.

“Have you told him-”

“He can hear us,” you quickly interrupt.

“In my defense, I do my best to mind my own business!” Steve calls from the kitchen and both and Isabella start cracking up.

“Text me later?” she asks, finally beating the level.

“You better your ass,” you promise.

“Not fair!” Steve calls from the kitchen and you just shake your head.

Dinner is ready in almost no time at all and you’re happily surprised at how well it turns out. Isaiah is a little quiet at first, not wanting to say the wrong thing, but after a few beers, he becomes the most relaxed person in the room. You try your best to not drag anything out, but everyone is having such a good time and you’re just so damn happy. Yes, you have your own complicated ass family, but Isabella has always been the main one to look out for you. Isaiah, well, he loves you just because Isabella loves you. Seeing the three of them get along so well really means the world to you, because it helps you feel even more at ease. It’s another sign that things are going in the right direction.

Things are as they’re meant to be.

“Well, I hate to cut the party so short, but I have work in the morning and the fact that my sweet love has downed 6 beers, after working an overnight, lets me know that he’s beat,” Isabella laughs.

“I’m fine for another few hours,” Isaiah defends with a slight slur and all of you chuckle.

“No, it’s time to call it a night,” Isabella chuckles as she starts to get up “but I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Uh no,” you respond awkwardly, fumbling with your fingers a little. “I’m gonna spend the week at the compound...then I’ll kinda just be staying there to watch Clyde...for a month.”

“What?”

“His mission got moved, so he’s gonna be leaving sooner than we thought, so we’re gonna spend the rest of the week together...well, the most best that we can, then I’ll be staying at the compound and watching Clyde until he comes back. I’ll still be coming to work and everything...I just won’t be here.”

“Do you want the month off?”

“Hell no,” you scoff “I need something to keep me busy.”

“Y/N-”

“I’m gonna be fine,” you promise. “It’s just an adjustment,” you tell her while you smile at Steve.

“Well...okay then. If you need me-”

“I know, babe. Please believe you’ll be hearing from me a lot,” you humorlessly chuckle as you get up and hug her. “I love you.”

“I love you too, babe” she responds mournfully.

After Isabella and Isaiah head out, you start to pack a few things while Steve puts away leftovers. The silence in uncomfortable, but it is heavy, both of you aware of what’s coming in the next few days, not sure what to really expect. You’ve never been this in love and the reality of losing Steve just as quickly as you got him becomes more and more clear by the minute.

“Will I be able to talk to you?” you ask as you and Steve make your way to the compound.

“No, but depending on how serious it is, I might be able to get messages to you.”

“Might?”

“It’s for your safety, babe.”

“I know, I know,” you sigh, looking out the window.

“Talk to me. What’s going on in that gorgeous head of yours.”

“You already know.”

“Y/N, you can’t just shut down because you’re uncomfortable or unhappy.”

“I just don’t see the point of having the same conversation. You know how I feel-”

“But I’m not a mind reader, babe.”

“You’re gonna be gone for a month. Maybe less, maybe more. I’m just supposed to trust and believe that you’re gonna be okay. Yes, we’ve talked about this a million times, but we keep having less and less time together, and I just...it’s a lot, okay? It’s a lot and I don’t like it,” you huff.

“I don’t like it either, babe. I truly don’t, but I’m coming back home to you-”

“You don’t know that,” you almost sob as he pulls up to the compound, pulling into the parking deck.

“If you keep believing the worst, how are we ever gonna get past this?”

“I’m new to this, Steve. I’ve never...I swore off dating guys that have dangerous professions, then you came along and...I’m trying because I want to be with you. You’re all I think about all the time, but it’s a lot at once. We were supposed to have more time and we don’t.

“Doll, I promise we’ll have more time when I get back, and I will come back.”

“You don’t-”

“I’m not letting anything on this planet, or any other planet, take me away from you. You’re the woman I’ve been waiting for and I’m not about to lose you as soon as I found you. I don’t care what I have to face,” he promises sincerely, wiping away your lone tear.

How are you supposed to argue with him after that?

So, you put on a brave face as you two head inside, doing your best ignore all of the anxiety and fear you feel.

As you and Steve make your way to his apartment, you’re greeted by some of the Avengers, but you can sense the dread and irritation they feel towards Steve.

It makes your blood boil.

“I gotta go and deal with some things,” Steve sighs as he puts away the last of your clothes in one of his drawers “but we’ll watch a movie or something when I get back, okay?” he offers weakly.

You just nod softly as you settle onto his bed. Steve lets out a heavy sigh before kissing your forehead and making his way out.

You’re alone in your misery for all of 5 minutes before there’s a soft knock on Steve’s apartment door. You slowly make your way over and open it, only to be met with Clyde almost knocking you over.

“Hey bud,” you laugh, getting on your knees and hugging the overly excited pup.

“I figured he might do you some good...plus, I’m fairly sure he missed you and Steve a lot,” Natasha laughs softly.

“Yeah, I think we could both use the company right now,” you laugh softly.

“Hey...I just want you to know, no one’s mad at you. I think we’re all just shocked and the timing is horrible. Steve plays everything close to the chest, but since he met you...none of us have ever seen him this enamored with anyone. We all pushed for him to take a break and now we’re all forcing him to come back...it’s not his fault, Y/N,” she sighs.

“I know it isn’t and I’m slowly understanding what I’m signing up for...I’m not going anywhere though. I know we’ll work it out and I know there will be more times like this...it’s just happening all at once. We both thought we had more time and now...it’ll be okay. I know it’s gonna be okay, I just have to adjust. With time and patience I will,” you smile up at her.

“Do you love him?” she asks before she has time to stop herself.

“I-”

“I’m pretty positive I know the answer, but it’s none of my business either way. I’m sorry,” she chuckles softly. “I’ve gotta get to this meeting. I promise we’ll try not to keep him too long.”

“I appreciate that,” you smile towards her before she nods and turns to walk away.

You close the door as Clyde runs to the sofa and settles himself on it, trying to think of things to keep you occupied. You start with a shower, needing the water to wash away the stress and frustration of your day. After that, there’s not much to do. You pull on one of Steve’s t-shirts and settle into the center of the bed, trying to find something to watch, but nothing holds your attention. Soon, Clyde joins you on the bed and curls up by your feet, and you can’t help but smile at the small action.

You groan in frustration when you hear your phone go off for what feels like the millionth time. You ignore the texts from your family and go right to Isabella’s text.

My Last Brain Cell: okay, so do you love him?

Y/N: So much and it’s terrifying me.

My Last Brain Cell: Does he love you?

Y/N: That’s what he told Bucky.

My Last Brain Cell: Look at you! On a first name basis with the Avengers!

Y/N: Stop it lol

My Last Brain Cell: Listen, I saw the way he looked at you tonight, babe. He’s all in.

Y/N: I know and that’s not the problem.

My Last Brain Cell: I know.

Y/N: What if he doesn’t come home, Iz? What if he gets hurt really bad?

My Last Brain Cell: You should tell him how you feel.

Y/N: No, I want him to have something to look forward coming home to.

My Last Brain Cell: He already does, babe. You.

You let her words roll around in your head as you settle into the center of Steve’s bed, trying to force yourself to calm down. You finally settle on the silent version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde before you slowly succumb to sleep.

“I wanted to be back before you were asleep,” Steve sighs as he gets in next to you.

“I’m awake,” you mumble, eyes still closed as you roll over and cuddle up next time to him.

“Sleep,” he laughs softly, stroking your hair as he kisses the top of your head.

“No, our days are limited. Tell me everything,” you yawn, forcing your eyes open.

“So stubborn. I love that,” he scoffs, but you can hear the smile in his tone. “What do you wanna hear about first?”

“The mission, I guess.”

“There’s been some...well, a lot of trouble on a planet called Xandar that’s now seemed to make its way to Sakaar. We’ve been asked to try and calm down the situation peacefully.”

“Which I’m assuming you all believe it won’t be peaceful because they’re sending all of you.”

“Yup,” he sighs as he shifts his weight a little.

“What aren’t you telling me, Steve?”

“I don’t want you to get up and leave.”

“Steve.”

“Nick...he told us how long he thinks it’s gonna be.”

“Fuck, just tell me.”

“A month and half to two months.”

You feel your eyes watering but you refuse to cry. You refuse to storm out. You just lay there and take a deep breath as you clench your eyes shut.

“Please say something,” he begs desperately.

“Why so long?”

“If there’s clean up, and there will be, we have to stay behind and help. Which, truly is the right thing to do. All we do is make a mess anyway.”

“Well, if they could fight for themselves, they wouldn’t need you all,” you scowl.

“Y/N.”

“It’s not like I’m wrong, Steve. I understand that places get destroyed and people get hurt, but I’ve also lived long enough to remember the world without the Avenges vs the world with it. We’d be fucked without you all, because it’s not like the defenses without you guys is enough. But sure. Lets all bitch because a few buildings need to be rebuilt.”

“Baby-”

“I’m just being bitter,” you sigh, fighting the urge to leave his arms.

“If you want out-”

“I’m clearly not going anywhere, so don’t even. If I were going to leave, it would’ve been before now.”

“Have I told you how much I like you?”

“A time or two,” you giggle softly. “What time do you have to be up?”

“5:30.”

“Of course you do.”

“I promise I’ll make this up to you, baby. I’m sorry,” he promises sincerely, pressing a soft kiss into your hair.

“You have nothing to be sorry for. Truly. These are the lives we lead and we just...we’ll make it work. You need to get some rest.”

“And what if I don’t wanna rest just yet?”

“Steve,” you giggle, feeling the exact same way “you need to be at your best and that means resting.”

“Why do I feel like this means it’s gonna be a torturous week for the both of us?”

“I mean, if you get them to send you back to me earlier, you may just get a going away gift,” you smirk before yawning.

“See, you say you want me to rest up, but then you say things like that.”

“Goodnight, babe,”

“Goodnight, darlin’.”

In the days that follow, you do your best to be supportive and pleasant. You don’t make a stink when Natasha and Bucky come over to talk about strategies, you bite your tongue when Nick and Tony pull him away from you in the middle of the night, and you don’t start an argument when his days start at 5:30am and end at 11pm.

However, by day 4, you finally snap.

“Why are you sleeping on the sofa?” Steve asks as he makes his way out of the bathroom, towel around his waist.

“You can’t wake me up by getting out of bed if I’m not in bed,” you shrug, flipping through channels, keeping your attention on the screen in front of you.

“Y/N-”

“Actually, maybe I should sleep in the guest room. That way, when Bucky and Nat come over and keep you up till 2am, I don’t disturb you all with my snoring.”

“Stop it.”

“Stop what, Steve? You asked me a question and I simply gave you an answer. Stop what?”

“Being a brat,” he warns, crossing his arms over his chest as you let out a humorless laugh.

“Oh? I’m being a brat? Okay. Good to know.”

“You know-”

“Cause you know what’s fucking funny? I’m not the one leaving in two days for a fucking month, maybe two. I’m not the one who is constantly running back and forth between training, meetings, and strategy plans. In fact, between the two of us, I think it’s you who’s being the brat.”

“I’m being the brat?!”

“Everything you’ve asked me to deal with, I’ve dealt with! I’ve tried to handle this entire situation with grace and patience! Is it too much for me to ask that we’re at least able to have dinner together?! I feel like I should be allowed to ask for dinners with my boyfriend without them being interrupted for something that should’ve been discussed when the Avengers kept you all fucking day!”

“Baby, I’m trying to-”

“I’m trying too, Steve! I have a right to be mad!” you yell, getting up and storming into the bedroom.

“You think this makes me happy?! Not spending time with you? Not ending my days with you in my arms?! I just want to come home to you!”

“That’s what I want too! If there’s anyone that wants that, it’s me!” you yell, finally feeling everything that you’ve been trying to bury. “I’ve suppressed everything that I’ve-”

“When I’ve asked you not to! When I’ve begged-”

“Why should I keep having the same fucking argument with you?! Why should I-”

“Because it’s how you feel!” he husks, pinning you against one of the walls in his bedroom. “Because I’ve been begging you to tell me everything you’ve been feeling!”

“Haven’t I?”

“Doll, there’s nothing that I want more than you to argue with me and tell me that you want me to stay,” he husks as he slowly starts to unbutton and unzip your shorts.

“Don’t,” you whimper effortlessly, trying to hold on to your resolve.

“Don’t what, baby?”

“Don’t put me together just to pull me apart.”

“Oh, Darlin’, I’ve been dying to pull you apart,” he groans moans as he pushes your shorts down. “I think that’ll be just what you need to make you fall in line,” he moans as dig your nails into his shoulders. “Just what you need.”

“Show me then, show me just how much you want me to be your good little girl,” you beg, starting to run your hands through his hair.

“Baby-”

“Steve, we gotta get to this meeting!” Bucky calls as he pounds on Steve’s front door.

“If you tell me not to go, I won’t,” Steve sighs against your lips.

“I want you to be as prepared as you can be,” you mumble, leaning your forehead against is shoulder. “At some point, we’ll have time for each other.”

“I want that time to be now.”

“But it isn’t,” you sigh.

“What if it was? What if I just walked away from all of this and focused on you?”

“Steve, I-”

“Bud, we gotta go!” Bucky calls again from the doorway.

“I’ll be waiting,” you sigh. “I’ll be waiting and I’ll be happy to be with you in whatever way I can be,” you smile the best you can.

“You know that I want to be with you, right?”

“I do,” you promise sincerely.

“Just..don’t change your mind before I get back,” he begs sincerely.

“I’m in this for the long haul, baby,” you smile at him before kissing his lips. “You just have to make sure you make it back to me.”

“I will. Y/N, on everything I hold dear, I swear I’ll be the man you need and want me to be.”

For the next two days, Steve does his best to be an Avenger and a boyfriend. He makes sure to make time for you and the things that make you smile, while doing his best to make time for work out regiments and battle preparations. You’ve given up on giving yourself to him completely, because something always comes along to ruin it, but you’re secretly happy about that.

You want him to come back to you before you’ve given everything away. It’s not like you don’t believe him, but you still want something to hold on to until he returns to you.

Even if it is the most old fashioned thing in the world.

“We need to stop,” you breathe as Steve kisses down to your clothed chest, trying to collect yourself.

“But we don’t want to stop.”

“You’re supposed to be up in 3 hours. You need your rest.”

“I don’t want to leave here without you knowing-”

“Trust me, baby, I know,” you smile at him.

“Please don’t change your mind while I’m gone.”

“You don’t change your mind while you’re gone.”

“I could never.”

“When you get back...”

“When I get back,” Steve laughs softly “be prepared for some changes.”

“Such as...?”

“I’ve cleared out a space in my closet for you, as well as a few drawers.”

“Steve-”

“I want you here as much as possible. I want you to move in.”

“You’re only saying that because you don’t know any better,” you laugh, as he lays down.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” he chuckles as you rest your head on his chest.

“You haven’t really spent any time with me. You’ve been busy. What if we spend time together when you get back and you think I’m the worst roommate?”

“I won’t think you’re the worst roommate. Besides, even if you were, I’d be able to deal with it. It would be your one flaw.”

“Ha! My one flaw.”

“Well, you are stubborn as all hell and a bit of a cover hog.”

“That’s because, whenever you roll over, you take the cover with you!”

“I do not.”

“You do too! And since we’re on the topic, you’re a bit of a pillow hog too.”

“Am not!”

“Whenever I come back from the bathroom in the middle of the night, you’ve sprawled yourself out and you’re partially on my pillow.”

“Technically, it’s my pillow.”

“Clyde is a much better sleeping buddy.”

“We’ll see how you feel about that after a week,” he laughs softly.

“Steve?”

“Yeah babe?”

“Promise me you’ll come back.”

“Y/N, I promise I’ll come back to you and we can do this right.”

“Steve, I lo-”

“Tell me when I get back,” he tells you softly before pressing a soft kiss into your hair.

You try to stay awake, wanting to get in as much time as you can with Steve before he leaves, but he’s just so damn warm and inviting.

“It’s time for me to go,” he says softly, gently shaking you awake.

“Not yet,” you reply lazily, gripping his wrist as your eyes open slowly. He’s dressed in his Captain America suit and you can feel your heart starting to break. “Just a few more minutes.”

“I’ve delayed it as much as I can,” he tells you regretfully.

“Please,” you start to sob.

“Baby, please don’t cry.”

“I’m not not,” you sniffle, quickly drying your eyes. “It’s gonna go by quick, right? I’ll blink and you’ll be right back here with me. Like no time has passed at all.”

“Exactly,” Steve smiles mournfully, and you can see that he’s doing his best to hold back his own tears.

You pull him close and kiss him deeply, wanting to sear the moment into your heart and mind until you have him close again. “Because you promise you’re coming back, right?” you ask breathlessly once you two break apart.

“I swear it, Doll,” he promises.

You hear whimpering at the end of the bed and you know you’re not the only one with a broken heart.

“I know bud, but it’s only for a little. I’ll be back before you know it,” he sighs at Clyde, petting him and giving a small kiss on the head. “Take care of Y/N while I’m gone, okay?”

Clyde just whimpers in response before licking his palm.

“I’ve gotta go, but I promise...I swear, I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.”

Steve gives you one more kiss before rushing out, and just like that, you’re alone.

The first few days, you lie and tell yourself that it’s fine. You can handle Steve being gone, because it’s not a big deal. He’s just your boyfriend. You’ve got Clyde to keep you company and you’re staying at his place. That’s more than enough for you.

However, once you hit week two, you start to fall apart.

“Y/N, maybe you should take a break,” Isabella sighs as you try to keep yourself together.

“No, I’m fine. I’m just tired and, as you can see, little miss Frisky is being fussy,” you huff as you try to trim up her face.

“This isn’t you, Y/N. You haven’t heard anything from him?”

“Nope, and that’s fine. I’m fine.”

“No you aren’t and I get it. If you want to take a few days-”

“That’ll make it worse. Work is the only thing that keeps my mind busy.”

“What about Clyde?”

“We’re both depressed. We cry together and- WILL YOU STOP MOVING?!” you snap at Frisky.

“Okay, Jazz take over for Y/N. We’re going on break, now.”

“I can finish the dog, Iz.”

“This isn’t up for discussion,” she snaps.

You scowl but step out of the way as Jazz walks over and take Frisky, placing her at her own station as you grab your purse.

“What’s going on with you?” she questions the moment you two are outside.

“Nothing, I’m fine.”

“Don’t lie to me. What’s the matter?”

“You know what’s wrong.”

“Babe, you can’t stress yourself-”

“He’s on another fucking planet, Iz! You don’t think I want to just take a deep breath and calm down? I miss him so much and I just want to hear his voice. I’d honestly just settle for a text, but he can’t and I get that.”

“Why are you so sure things aren’t okay?”

“Because he’d be back by now,” you sigh, trying to fight off the tears that so desperately want to be shed.

“Babygirl, maybe it would be best-”

“I promise that it wouldn’t be best. Me alone with my thoughts right now...not a good idea.”

“Then you’ve gotta relax, Y/N.”

“I will, I promise...today is just a bad day,” you promise, wiping your eyes.

So, you try even hard to mask just how much you’re hurting. How much you’re upset and hurting. All it does is cause you to cry more on the weekends. You’re hopeful that all of the suffering is over at the end of the month, but to your dismay, he still isn’t home.

Which means, there was a battle and now it’s time for clean up.

Most nights you cry, holding Clyde close until fall asleep. Other nights, you stay up and watch movies the both of you love.

Dumbo has become a movie you know line for line.

You’re about to watch it, for what feels like the millionth time in a row, when you hear a soft knock on Steve’s door. “Hey,” Pepper smiles at you through the small crack you’ve made “I was wondering if you’d like to eat dinner with me.”

“Oh, thank you, but I’m not even dressed-”

“That’s okay! I don’t have any set dinner plans, I just thought I’d ask. I know that I’m a nervous about Tony, so I figured you might need the company as much as I do,” she laughs softly.

“Give me a few minutes to change in to something presentable and I’ll meet you up there,” you smile awkwardly.

You dig through the drawers you’ve made yours, feeling like wearing sweats isn’t appropriate for dinner with Pepper Potts-Stark, even though she just told you differently. You settle on shorts and your gray Mickey and Minnie t-shirt, before feeding Clyde the rice and chicken meal you’ve started making for him, and heading out.

When you reach the top floor, you take a deep breath, feeling more anxious than you were prepared to. The only time you’ve spent time with anyone outside of Steve is when Bucky and Nat had people over, and even that was overwhelming.

Just you and Pepper eating dinner together? That’s something you never thought would happen.

But then again, the same can be said you dating Steve.

“Welcome,”she smiles, handing you a glass of wine, stepping aside as you make our way inside. “Sorry, the place is a bit of a mess-”

“It looks amazing,” you gawk in wonder, looking at the high chandelier and the cleanest windows you’ve ever seen.

“You’re far too kind,” she laughs as she moves a few papers out of the way. “Whenever Tony is on a mission, I double down on work and forget to clean up after myself.”

“Yeah, I’ve taken on twice as many dogs since Steve’s been gone,” you chuckle.

“That’s right, you’re a dog groomer! I don’t know how that slipped my mind,” she laughs, stashing away a few blueprints.

“You have a lot going on.”

“It’s honestly been the same amount of work since I started working for Tony, I’m just a mess until he’s home and safe. Usually, Morgan is running around and being a great distraction, but she’s at a sleepover, so,” Pepper shrugs sheepishly.

“Yeah, I can completely understand that. Clyde and I just mope around all day. We both miss Steve just as much. Maybe him a little more than me, but that’s only because Clyde’s known him longer.”

“No, I’ve seen the way you and Steve look at each other. I’m sure you and Clyde miss him the same amount,” she smiles at you reassuringly. “What do you feel like having for dinner?”

“I have no idea,” you laugh “what do you have?”

“Not much.”

“You can do a lot with not much,” you encourage before making your to the kitchen.

The conversation starts to flow freely as you search around for things to cook. You decide on cheeseburgers and fries, feeling a little more at ease over not having to stress about some big to-do meal. Pepper tells you about how she never thought her life would be what it is now, and you can’t help but chuckle in agreement.

You never saw yourself being with someone like Steve. Let alone, Steve himself.

“I think this is the best cheeseburger I’ve ever had,” Pepper giggles drunkenly as you both sit on the floor, eating and sharing a bottle of wine.

“I went from not knowing how to cook a single thing to making sure I’d be able to make whatever I want. A very handy skill.”

“I’m sure Steve loves it.”

“The one time I made dinner for him and we were able to eat it together, he told me how much he loves it,” you chuckle softly.

“It’s not easy. The sitting and the waiting. The sacrificing of time so that they can have their meetings and save the world. We’re in love with superheros,” she scoffs.

“Yeah, I tried to stop it,” you sigh, taking a sip from the bottle. “At least slow it down.”

“How can you? They know what it’s like to love and lose everything, so they become all consuming. They know how precious every moment is, so they make sure to make every moment count.”

“Steve definitely does.”

“He’s going to be okay. They all are. If they can survive Thanos, twice, they can survive anything.”

“How do you know?”

“I don’t, I just have to believe it, or else I’ll...”

“Or else you’ll what?”

“I’ll fall apart,” she smiles weakly. “I’ve had my fair share of scares with Tony, but I keep believing that he’ll be okay in the end, and in the end, he always is.”

“I’m still working on that part,” you chuckle humorlessly, wiping away a few tears.

“You’ll get there,” Pepper smiles reassuringly.

From that night, you do your best to not let yourself get lost in the “what if’s” and focus more on the “he’s fine”. Even when it gets to be a month and half and he still isn’t back, you tell yourself that everything is gonna be fine.

My Last Brain Cell: Take the next two weeks off.

Y/N: What? No, I’m fine.

My Last Brain Cell: You’ve been working like a mad woman for almost 2 months. Take the two weeks. You need the break.

Y/N: Iz, I’m fine.

My Last Brain Cell: This isn’t a suggestion, babe. You’re taking the two weeks.

Y/N: Fine.

You scowl as you throw your phone down, returning your attention back to the screen in front of you as you cuddle up next to Clyde in bed. At some point, you find yourself falling asleep to the sound of announcers declaring Joe Louis the winner of some boxing match. You close your eyes and miss him more than you’re comfortable with: you’re hoping that you’re one day closer to being with Steve.

You’re not sure how long you’ve been asleep when Clyde starts barking. He’s quick to get out of bed when you hear the door unlock.

“Hey buddy, I’m home!” Steve happily tells him in a hushed tone.

You can’t stop your feet as they hit the ground running. You’re on him in an instant, jumping up and wrapping your legs around him.

“I know, baby. I know,” he coos as he holds you tight, stroking your hair as you sob into his shoulder. “I’m home baby.”

“I was so scared!”

“I’m so sorry, but I’m home now. I’m home and I will be for a while. I promise.”

“I love you, Steve. I love you so much.”

“I can’t tell you how much I’ve been dying to hear you say that,” he chuckles softly, “I love you too.”

“Wait, let me look at you. Are you okay?” you sniffle, slowly unwrapping your legs from around him and stepping back a little.

“I’m fine-”

“Oh my God! Steve!”

“It looks worse than it is, trust me. I looked worse a few days ago.”

“Steve,” you gasp, your hands going over the cuts and bruises on his arm. You don’t even wanna think about what his chest must look like.

“Baby, I’m okay. I promise. Please don’t cry,” he smiles softly.

All you can think to do is wrap him in a hug. “I love you.”

“I love you. So much, you have no idea,” he sighs, finally dropping his bag and kissing your hair.

“What can I do? What do you need? Are you hungry?”

“You don’t need to do anything,” he chuckles. “I am going to take a shower. I’ve missed showering in my own home so much.”

“Do you want me to make you something to drink or-”

“Baby, you don’t need to do anything, truly. You can join me if you want,” he calls over his shoulder as he makes his way to the bathroom.

You’re about to follow him when there’s a soft knock on the door.

“Oh, hey Bucky,” you smile as you try to ease your anxiety. “What’s up?”

“Hey, I promise I won’t keep you long, it’s just that the first night home after a mission is always the hardest for me and-”

“Seriously Buck?” a now shirtless Steve questions as he steps out of the bathroom.

“You have company now!”

“You’re practically married to Nat at this point.”

“Be that as it may, Nat is not Clyde. She’s not gonna watch scary movies with me till sunrise. Clyde will.”

“Have you ever considered getting your own pet?”

“It’s being discussed. However, until we come to a decision...?”

“One night, Buck. I mean it. I want him back in the morning.”

“How about the afternoon?”

“Buck.”

“Fine. You’ll have your precious child back by 11:30,” Bucky smiles before calling for Clyde.

“Buck-”

“You two kids have fun!” Bucky calls before running off with Clyde.

“Asshole,” Steve mutters with a slight laugh as you close the door.

“Are you sure-”

“Come here,” Steve calls softly. You can do nothing but obey.

“Steve, do you need to be looked at?” you question, softly running your fingers over the cuts and bruises that litter his body.

“I’m okay, I promise. I just wanna be with you,” he softly promises, “I just want you. I just need you.”

“You can have whatever you want from me,” you promise as you look up to meet his gaze.

Steve’s kiss is deep and intense, his hold on you tightening as he leads you both into the bathroom.

“You’ve been sleeping in my clothes the entire time I’ve been gone?” he smirks as you two break apart, starting to undo his pants.

“Maybe,” you giggle, pulling his shirt over your head. “It’s the only way I could keep you close.”

“You are so beautiful,” he marvels softly as his hands trace over your bare chest.

In that moment, you realize just how bare you are. You realize that Steve has never seen you naked and you instantly turn away. “I didn’t know when you’d be home, so I-”

“Stop it. You are gorgeous and I...how did I get so lucky? How are you mine?”

“Steve-”

“I’ve told you that I love you, but now I wanna show you just how much,” he states before crashing his lips into yours.

Steve’s arms snake around your waist as he leads you into the shower. He turns on the water and you both gasp as he turns on the shower-head. Its assaulting cold water pelts you both as you work to get his pants undone, forcing them down the best you can as the water quickly heats up.

“I thought about having you like this so much,” he groans, stepping out of his pants before kissing down your body.

“Steve...Steve please,” you beg mindlessly as you start clawing at the wall.

“You’re so fucking perfect,” he mutters before licking your clit softly as he hooks your left leg over his shoulder. “So perfect and all mine,” he moans before thrusting two fingers inside you.

“Fuck!” you gasp as your back arches.

“I missed you so much, baby,” he coos as he looks up at the wordless mess you’ve become for him. “I want you to know just how much I’ve missed you.”

“Steve!” you cry out as he licks and sucks on your clit, “If you keep using your tongue like...fuck! I’m so close!” you whimper, your toes curling.

Steve pays you the kindness of adding a third finger as you cry out in pleasure. You try to pace yourself but it’s no use since Steve only seems to pick up the pace. The sound of water falling around the both of you does nothing to mask the lewd sounds he’s making between your legs, or the pornographic moans escaping your lips that only encourage him.

“Fu...fuck! Right there! That’s it!” you practically scream as you come apart for him, grinding your pussy against his face, his beard a welcome comfort as you try to live in the moment for as long as possible.

You do your best to calm down as you try to regulate your breathing, but Steve doesn’t stop his bombardment. You feel as if you’re being made whole while your body falls apart.

“Baby...oh fuck me, please!” you moan as he continues to clean up the mess between your legs.

“I swear I’m gonna eat this fucking pussy all week,” he grunts, finally looking up at the pathetic mess you’ve become for him. “You taste this good and made me wait?”

“I’m sorry,” you pant, gripping his shoulders as you try and steady yourself.

“Oh, you will be,” he smirks before kissing his way up your body.

“Got off to the thought of you having me like this so many times,” you whimper, loving the way his tongue envelops your right nipple as his hand massages the left. “Never knew being loved could feel so fucking good!”

“I’m gonna show you just how good it feels time and time again,” he husks before kissing the rest of the way up your body. “Because you’re mine, right?” he questions as he pins you against the shower wall, gripping both your thighs and forcing your legs around his waist. You can’t help but get more excited as he becomes dominant.

“Yes,” you moan, grinding your clit against his pelvis as you desperately try to relieve some of the friction between your legs. “I’m all yours!”

“So good for me,” he husks as he thrusts himself inside of you. “So fucking good and beautiful!”

“Fuck!” you cry out in pleasure, your nails digging to his back. “Fu...fuck Steve!”

“I missed you so fucking much,” he whispers hotly against your chest. “I hate being away from you!”

“I...I missed you too, baby! Fuck, that’s it!” you mewl as he starts hitting the spot deep within you that has the knot in your core tightening.

“You look so beautiful all fucked out on my cock,” he taunts as your toes curl. “So much better than I ever imagined.”

“Jesus, Steve!”

“I’m gonna make love to you in every inch of this apartment, until you’re spent!” he promises as his thrusts start coming harder and faster.

“You feel so fucking good! Please don’t stop!” you pathetically beg, your release coming on.

“Cum for me, baby! I wanna see you fall apart for me!”

“Shit!” you cry out, cumming hard as you grip him tight.

“Such a good girl for me,” he praises, turning off the water.

You give yourself a moment to recover from your high before you dip down and kiss him deeply, slowly starting to grind your hips against him. Steve moans in satisfaction, his hold on you tightening as he starts to walk towards the bedroom.

“I love you so much,” you moan against his lips as you two break apart. “So happy to have you back and all mine.” ”I love you, baby. I have since the moment I laid eyes on you. I’m never gonna stop,” he promises softly as he sits on the edge of the bed, looking up at you with love and adoration in his. “You’re fucking perfect.”

“Just wanna make you feel good, baby,” you moan, gently pushing him back. “Will you let me do that?”

“I let you do anything you want, babygirl,” he groans as you start to ride him.

You place your hands on either side of his chest, picking up your pace a little as his hands explore your body. You let out a silent sob as Steve’s hands grip your ass tightly before slapping it, lulling your head back as you get lost in the euphoric pleasure he’s only ever made you feel.

“You look so fucking good when you ride me,” he husks, and you can tell by the strain in his voice that he’s fighting off his own release.

“Give it to me, baby. Cum deep in this pussy,” you beg, looking down at him as your hair falls in front of your face. “I need you to fill me up.”

“Fuck,” he hisses, cupping your face. “Don’t wanna disappoint you-”

“You could never, baby. The way you stretch and fill me? You could never...baby, I’m so close,” you whimper as you grip the sheets tight.

“Are you gonna cum for Daddy?”

“Fuck, yes! I’ll do whatever you want me to, Daddy! Please, please!” you beg as you clench around him. “Please fill me up!”

“Fuck!” he shouts, shooting his load into you, his grip on your right hip pleasurably painful.

“Shit!” you yell, trying to ride out both of your orgasms as you brace yourself against him. “Fuck!”

You both take a moment to come down from your highs, trying to regulate your breathing as you lean your forehead against his. Your right hand cups the side of his face before kissing him deeply.

“You’re so fucking good to me,” he chuckles softly as you pull away. “How did I get so lucky?”

“How did I get so lucky,” you giggle softly before groaning in dissatisfaction as you slowly climb off of him. “How are you all mine?” you smile, laying next to him and pulling him close.

“I love you, Y/N.”

“I love you too, Steve.”

“Should’ve started dropping Clyde off at his groomer’s sooner.”

“You better keep up on dropping him off,” you giggle. “His paws of attraction-”

“Paws of attraction?”

“Ya know, he only loves me because his owner loves me. By default, paws of attraction; he has no choice but to love me.”

“You’re kinda crazy, you know that?” he questions as you laugh.

“And I’ll never change.”

“I don’t want you to,” he smiles as he pulls you close and kisses your forehead. “I want you to stay just as you are, forever. I love you.”

“I love you, forever and ever,” you promise as you snuggle up close to him. “I’m so happy we found each other.”

“Me too, now, just don’t ever leave.”

“I promise, I’ll stay right here,” you giggle, kissing his chest.

Feeling more comfortable in his arms and safer than you’ve ever felt anywhere else, you settle in and let yourself drift off. As you start to fade out of consciousness, you know that Steve is your beginning and end. The love you’ve been searching for, for forever, is finally yours to stay. You fall asleep knowing that you’ll never need or want for anything again. As long as you have Steve, you have everything you’ll ever need. That’s everything.

Steve is more than enough forever.

taglist: @fuckingbye, @maroonsunrise83, @whxre4cevans, @sweetflowerdreams

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