Even If You Can't Hear My Voice, I'll Be Right Beside You

(I know right? I did take the punch idea from when Steve did it… so yeah)

Barnes cleared everything from his mind, so he could train without becoming distracted. He needed to get some training in, it always managed to help him relax after a mission. Especially if something didn’t go as to plan during the mission, like it had done yesterday when his task got away from him. Leaving the punching bag where it laid on the floor, someone else could fix that. He turned to another punching bag and begun training on that, soon enough beads of sweat forms on his forehead as he let his frustrations out with every punch. He continued on with his training for about two hours, although he could go for longer. But he decided to take a break as he was beginning to feel hungry, leaving the room he walked straight back to his room where a tray of food was waiting. He was only allowed to eat in his room, if he wasn’t out on a mission or training then he was stuck in the room. He wasn’t allowed to mix with other agents or anyone in Hydra, he wasn’t liked nor was he important to people. He was a machine and that is all he was.
So he ate the food in silence before he took a shower to wash away the sweat that he made working out, this was pretty much how every day went for him. He was used to it, but it wasn’t a life. The only time he went outside of the base was when he had a mission, an order to kill someone that Hydra didn’t like or thought would become a threat at some point in time. After he dried himself off, he climbed into his bed as there must be another mission coming up shortly. Normally he would be frozen again after a mission, unless Hydra had more people they wanted him to take care of.

---

“It was really nice, but Brooklyn is a lovely city. I’ve been there a few times over the years, I used to take my grandparents back there.” Grace smiled as she did have fond memories of Brooklyn, her grandparents both grew up there so they knew all the great little spots to visit. She took Steve into her apartment and shut the door behind him, “This way.” She told him as she led him down the hallway and into her bedroom, she didn’t think anything of showing him into her room. If he didn’t put the mirror in her room then it would never get moved, Grace wouldn’t be able to move it on her own. “Right here, would be great.” She told him as she pointed to the empty spot beside her desk, her whole apartment was feminine but still classic and classy. She watched as he easily but carefully set the mirror down where she had asked, she smiled as the mirror fitted in perfectly with her room and just brought it all together in her opinion. “Thank you again, Steve.” She looked at him as she took him back to the main living area of her home, “Make yourself at home.” She told him as she stepped into the kitchen, pulling out two plates from a cabinet she set them on the counter before reaching for a freshly baked cake that she had made the day before.
A chocolate sponge cake with vanilla cream and fresh raspberries on top, cutting two pieces she moved over to the couch and sat down beside Steve. “Here, tell me what you think.” She handed one plate and fork over to him, she pushed her shoes off as she could curl herself up on her couch and relax after a long day of working.

That night she decided she didn’t want to stay at the base, and left to go to the small apartment that she had only recently started sharing with Luka – usually staying out of it because he would bring girls over, or whatever, and she didn’t want to get in the way. And he usually stayed out of it because he had elsewhere to be. But tonight it was all hers. The walk from the base to her apartment was far too long. It’d take her maybe four hours.
She stayed up re-watching some Hindenburg documentary, but her mind was kept occupied with other thoughts. Eventually, tired out by the day and recent events, she fell asleep to it. She didn’t stay asleep for too long, waking up suddenly with some idea and scrambling from the couch to grasp a paper and start madly charting plans, drawing way into the night and falling asleep over her charts. She’d wake up late, and she’d turn up late to the base the next base, carrying her roll of papers with uttermost care to give them all to her manager.

---

Steve set the mirror where she gestured to, making sure it wouldn’t fall before stepping back and gave it a satisfied look. “It suits perfectly. You got great taste.” He looked over at her, following her out of the room and back to the main, “No worries. Glad to help.” He didn’t sit down immediately while she vanished, taking the time to casually look around and check out that all familiar logo to him of Disney sitting on a shelf amongst many other DVDs. He even caught a glimpse of a photo of her and some people he didn’t recognise. The small tour was quick, her apartment was exactly huge, and he sat himself down on the couch by the time she returned.
Carefully taking the plate with the cake piece, he said, “This looks delicious.” He broke off a piece and ate it, his eyebrows raising a little. “This is really good! Did you make this?” He added, looking over at her. He took another piece and chewed it, enjoying the taste. Once that was gone down his throat, he found himself looking at the photo he had seen earlier of a younger version of Grace. He didn't want to ask, but it kept beckoning him to look over. It was a cute photo.

Barnes tossed and turned all night long, his mind wouldn’t stay silent. His mind often ended up thinking about Aria, how things ended was awkward. Although it probably wouldn’t matter as he doubted she would willingly go anywhere near him, especially if she thought he was so dangerous. In the morning he climbed out of the bed and sat there for a little while, he stretched out his back and neck before he pulled on clean clothes. It was a few minutes later before an agent walked into the room and set his breakfast down on the table, quickly leaving as James headed over to the food. He sat down to eat the food, now he’d just have to wait until someone came to him if there was another mission or he went to the training room and if he was needed then they could go find him. Usually if he had a mission, someone who be there already explaining what needed to happen but no one was there. So apparently he wasn’t needed yet, which was fine by him.
After he finished eating, he headed back to the training room. He worked out in the empty room, however he was distracted. He wasn’t training as hard as he normally did, his mind wasn’t into it today as he found himself still thinking about Aria. He didn’t want her in trouble, she was die and he would lose the only person that was ever nice to him there in the base. But she could do whatever she wanted, why she’d want to dig into his past life was beyond him.

---

Grace smiled widely when Steve liked the cake, “I did. I baked it yesterday,” It was just a hobby for Grace, baking and cooking relaxed her especially after a hard day at work. She always cooked with her grandma, who was the best cook ever. She noticed where Steve was looking and followed his line of sight, she saw the photo of a younger her. “My tenth birthday party, I’m with my parents and my closest friend.” She told him as she remembered the happy day, both her parents had taken the day off work to be there with her. Which hardly never happened, but she now knew that her grandpa had a word to her parents a few days before. He basically told them that they were going to be there for her, and if they weren’t then they would deal with him.
She was still close with her friend, but they didn’t live close anymore as her friend moved away to be with her husband so they didn’t see each other that much. She took a mouthful of the cake and looked back at Steve, “I’m really glad that they found you. This world still needs you, but do you still enjoy being Captain America?” She asked him softly, she didn’t want to be nosy but she was curious.

When you rub your chest with unscented-chloroform and stuff a small eyedropper bottle filled with it in your pocket, and start walking towards the office really late in the evening, it’s really nerve wrecking. But thrills, and part of those thrills gave Ari the adrenaline kick she needed. The office guy was… okay looking. He wasn’t ugly, but sure wasn’t her type. But she had chatted to him now and then, dropping casual flirts to build that in-the-heat-of-the-moment trust.
Tonight, hopefully it’d pay off. The office was, unfortunately, always under his supervision at this time, but in this office were papers she wanted to get a copy of.
The hallway was quiet, and she waited for quite a while to make sure the patrol was out of its area, before proceeding forward. The office was still dimly lit, and she lingered by the door, peeping in until he caught sight of her. A look of surprise, then some sort of smirk crossed his features. Good, so far so good. Ari took advantage of that, sliding up to him, first on his desk, dangling her legs, batting her eyelashes, making small quiet chat, inching closer and closer until she was on his lap, letting him bury his face in her neck, still cooing things into his ear. The fumes would kick in soon, she could already feel him start to doze.

---

“Amazing,” he said, careful not to speak through a mouthful, “Doctor, good taste, and a good cook. Is there anything else?” He laughed, only now just realising he was still wearing his jacket, and taking it off, neatly hanging it over the armrest.
He listened intently to her small story, looking over the photo once more. One of her parents caught his eye more than the other, it was somehow familiar but at the same time he was sure he had never seen it. He couldn’t quite put his finger on it. “It’s a wonderful photo.”
Steve looked over at her as she asked, setting down the now empty plate. He put his hands together and let out a small, but not burdened, sigh. “It’s my job now. I’ve wanted to be a soldier, not exactly this but fate gives you things in weird ways. There are times I imagine how things would have been if I didn’t get to where I am now, but I don’t regret it. If I knew the path and had to take it again, I’d do it all over – with some few fixes here and there of course.” He smiled, Bucky’s fall briefly flashing over in his memory. “I suppose it’s a little like you. The world needs doctors, right? Sometimes it gets tough, but in the end – it’s the result in favour of the good that keeps you going.”

Barnes had decided to train late into the night, it was something that he did on occasion when he could. Tonight was one of those nights, he just wanted to get in some extra hours in the gym. He was heading back to his room when from the corner of his eye, he noticed movement. At this time of the night not many people were wandering around the base, the security guards were really the only ones that should be walking through the base. But when he stopped to see what was going on, he frowned when he saw Aria was with a man. She was sitting on his lap but his head was dropping backwards slowly, like he was falling asleep for some reason. He stood there just watching, it wasn’t long before Ari stood up and that is when their eyes connected. She shouldn’t have been in that office, he knew that she hadn’t listened to him when he told her to stop researching him. He turned away and went back to walking through the hallway, but then he heard two voices from the other end of the hallway.
Something inside him made him turn right back around, he rushed to the office and found Aria snooping through the drawers. “Leave right now, people are coming.” He told her quietly as she wasn’t allowed in this office, so if she was found in here then she would be in trouble. He gently grabbed her arm with his good hand, he turned her slightly so she was looking at him. Then he saw the daze in her eyes, the chloroform had started to affect her as well.

---

Grace smiled as she shook her head, “No. That’s pretty much all I’m good at,” She told him lightly as she finished off her piece of cake and rested the plate on the coffee table, she listened to what Steve said and she did understand what he said. “Being a doctor is different than you being Captain America, I help people with medicine. You actually go out there and fight to keep people safe, do you think you’d ever be able to let it all go? Stop fighting the bad guys and have a normal life?” She asked him even if she thought she knew what his answer would be, she thought it would be too hard for him to let it all go. He’d see horrible things happening on the news and would naturally want to help out, she knew she couldn’t see herself not being a doctor any time soon.
“Have you even thought about that? I know I haven’t thought about what I’d do if I couldn’t be a doctor anymore, I honestly don’t know what I’d do.” Grace never had a plan b when it came to her career, she always knew she was going to be a doctor and so that is what she worked towards. She pushed herself through high school and got high grades, then she put herself through medical school.

Everything was fine. The man was falling asleep and one more whiff before he was gone into the realm of dreams. She pinched his cheek but he didn’t wake up. Satisfied, she stood up, but something out the corner of her eye made her look.
Barnes. At first though, she didn’t think it was Barnes. She almost freaked out, but the next heartbeat calmed her. Only partly. If he was around, if she had missed him… Then… He was gone. She didn’t waste time. She grabbed her second phone and with speed already polished many times before she went through the files she wanted, taking quick pictures to store them. Barnes was back faster than she would have liked. She wanted to scowl, but suddenly he had her arm and turned her around. Ari looked at him, but her vision was blurring. The chloroform… She squinted, rested a hand on his chest to steady herself and shook her head to wake herself up. He was saying something important, people were coming? The phone slipped into an inner pocket of her jumper and Ari – with some trouble – tried to head for the door. But she was nodding off. She had miscalculated the time spent on finding the right drawer. No good. The fumes were right under her nose too. She swayed, looked up at him, muttered with a small smile “Shit, Barnesy,” and leaned abruptly into his chest, her face burying into his shirt.

---

She had a really valid point. “No,” he replied softly after a while of thought, “I don’t think I could let it go. For as long as I am able, I will. Bad guys are always there. Someone needs to keep them at bay.” It saddened him for a moment to realise that perhaps he would never have a normal life. He really hadn’t thought about this, not until now that she mentioned it. All his life he had wanted to be a soldier in the army, it was all he ever tried to get. There was no other option. Steve shrugged. “It’s part of who I am, what I do. I can’t see it any other way.”
He rubbed his chin a little as he thought some more, but couldn’t come up with anything so he said, clearly joking, “Maybe I could farm potatoes when I retire.” He chuckled. If he ever retired. He didn’t know what would happen in the future. He lived now. Planning too far ahead never really was his thing. He looked towards the time then, noticing he had spent quite a while here. It was curfew soon. Steve looked over at her and smiled, “Ah, I should take my leave, it’s getting late - I wouldn’t want you to miss sleep!” He slowly started to stand up, taking his jacket and looking for his clock. He definitely didn’t want to overstay his welcome, nor make the hostess sleepy. “Thank you so much for the wonderful cake.”

Barnes stood completely still when he felt her body lean against his, he knew the guards would find them if he didn’t make a move right now. So he lifted Aria’s body up into his muscular arms and carried her out of the office, the guards were just around the corner now so James quickly made his way across the hallway. He made it seem like he had come from the training room, it was the only way he wouldn’t get into trouble. “Hey, what are you doing with her?” One of the guards asked when they rounded the corner and saw James carrying Ari, “I found her like this in the training room. She’s had a long day,” He told them simply as Ari mumbled something under her breath as her head rested against his shoulder, James didn’t wait for the guards to say anything else as he continued on walking. He went to an elevator and stepped inside, he watched the doors shut and the metal box moved upwards through the building. It was lucky that Aria had told him where her room was, otherwise he didn’t know what he’d do with her.
He waited a few moments before he left the elevator and walked along the hallway until he found the correct room number, he shifted her body gently and found her key in her pocket. Unlocking the door he carried her inside, finding her bedroom he laid her down and looked at her. He took her shoes off and placed the covers over her body, before he turned around and left. He didn’t want to risk her waking up and finding him there, if she didn’t remember what she was going then she would think he broke into her room and he didn’t want that.

---

Grace was right in her thinking that Steve wouldn’t stop being who he was, it would be hard especially if he could still fight and do the right thing. She understood where he was coming from, if she had her way then she’d only stop being a doctor when she got too old to actually work. “I reckon you’d be a great potato farmer,” She laughed softly as she looked at him, “In that case I hope you do continue working with the team you’ve been given. From what I heard from my grandpa, you weren’t ever really alone on missions. You aren’t alone now either,” She told him honestly as he had Sam and Natasha and a whole army of SHIELD agents behind him, she smiled when he decided to leave as it was getting late. “Thank you for carrying my mirror home for me, I’ll see you tomorrow.” She stood up and handed him his clock, she held the door open for him as he walked out. She watched him walk away before shutting and locking the door to her apartment, she cleaned up the plates before she turned in for the night.
The next morning she got herself ready for work and took the subway into work like she always did, she went into her office and pulled on her white jacket. She checked her work calendar to see if anyone was booked in to see her or if anyone had gotten hurt last night, there were a few agents that she would have to see but that was about it. So she walked through the base to the kitchen, she smiled and greeted the agents she saw as she made herself another coffee.

During that whole ordeal, Aria was vaguely aware of some far away voices, some lights, her moving a few times, and her bed being really uncomfortable. Since when did she have something metal in her mattress?
She woke up on her bed somewhat late into the morning, still dressed but shoeless. She spent the first few minutes trying to remember what had happened last night, did she fall asleep over another sketch? Her design papers were all over the bedroom, some even trailing to the coffee table just past the curtains that acted as a wall in her studio-apartment like room, minus the kitchen. HYDRA didn’t exactly give apprentices luxurious apartments at the base, unfortunately. Slowly, the memories came back to her. She was after some papers, she put the office guy to sleep, and with some shock she remembered seeing Barnes there too, after which everything became a blur. Aria pulled out her duplicate-phone (used like a camera) and scrolled through the images. She got the files alright, but she didn’t remember getting out.
Nobody seemed to be putting a gun to her temple at the moment either, so she hoped for the best. She got herself together, showered, changed and headed out to grab some breakfast, and to see her boss for any more work. She didn’t know how to approach Barnes just yet, or if she should at all – pretend nothing happened? Play it cool. Just eat for now.
Her roll of papers tucked carefully under her arm, sporting the new design for some stealthy chopper for HYDRA that she had been working on for a project, she grabbed a small sandwich and went to her boss; who this fine day was in a happy mood, taking her to see the newest jet that HYDRA had received overnight, that the boss and his group (including small input from Ari) had worked on for the past three years.

---

Steve raised a brow as she mentioned her grandpa and with a soft chuckle added, “Your grandpa knows me?” then it clicked in his head that her grandfather probably was in the army at some point with Steven. He smiled, “We must have crossed paths.” He walked to the door, taking the clock and putting his jacket on her, thanking her and replying that it was no problem to carry it, glad to help, have a goodnight. He left, found himself a few minutes later in his apartment and fell asleep almost instantly. Long day.
Luka saw her enter the building from one of the windows high above, in SHIELD’s spacious gym. He waited long enough for her to make her usual rounds and go to the kitchen, familiar with her schedule well enough. But he didn’t go to find her just yet. Should he approach her in a public space, like the kitchen, she would have somewhere to escape. No, he’d come into the nursery room when there were no other nurses and he would have her attention – she would be breaking a few contracts and oaths should she leave him untreated! He hung the towel around his neck and left the gym for the showers. Besides, he had a good reason to go to. Some recent raid left his shoulder somewhat bruised after being partly dislocated, and although it had been put back, he still needed someone to redo the bandages – especially after a shower.

Mr Haworth was in such a good mood that he did take Ari to check out the new jet that arrived last night, it was the only thing people were talking about because it was going to do so much good for their cause. But before that, he had allowed Ari to show him the plans that she had drawn up for a chopper that they could build and use. Now the rolled up design was safely tucked under his arm, he wasn’t the nicest man or boss there at Hydra but he also wasn’t close to being the worst. In fact the only thing he constantly got away with was stealing ideas and designs from the people he hired, including Ari. So when he saw his supervisor keeping an eye on him, he didn’t think twice about showing Ari’s design to him but saying that she only drew it for him as he was so busy all the time but that the whole idea was his. He had done this before, but never in front of an employee although he felt nothing for it. Only the praise he received for the great idea, and just like that he ordered Ari to run off and to get back to work or she wouldn’t be getting paid for the time she wasted.
Bucky had seen the whole exchange happen, he was standing on the landing above where Ari and Mr Haworth were. He heard what had happened and watched the disappointment and frustration settle onto Aria’s face, although she stood there silent and allowed the creep to take credit for her hard work. James didn’t understand why, he would have grabbed Mr Haworth’s neck and make him explain to his supervisor how he had just lied. Walking down the steps, James didn’t go that much closer to her as what went down last night was still on his mind. “Stand up for yourself, he’s walking all over you.” He spoke loud enough she’d hear, but not too loud that he would startle her again.

---

Grace was back in her office sipping her coffee after her first morning rounds, she was getting herself ready for the day. She had heard from the other nurses that a new group of agents were coming in, apparently Steve had worked with them before on a mission. Although she wasn’t all that interested in them, as long as they didn’t bother her or cause trouble for Steve or Shield. She was typing an email on her computer that needed to get done before she left work that day, she heard the nurses leave so they could go tend the agents that needed small quick check-ups. So when she heard the door open and close, she just thought one of the nurses had forgotten something as she didn’t have anyone booked in to see her just yet. Grace was also still writing the email that she didn’t notice a body had entered her office before he cleared his throat, turning sharply she expected to see Steve or another Shield agent standing there but she was completely wrong as her eyes landed on someone she never thought she’d see again.
“Luka?” Grace whispered as she was surprised to see him, he was standing right there in loose dark pants and a black t-shirt that still clung to his muscles. His hair was damp and he had a new tattoo marking his skin, standing up Grace couldn’t take her eyes off him. “What are you doing here?” She asked him as she clearly remembered the reason why she broke up with him, after three years of dating and living together. She had even been expecting to marry Luka, he was her first true love and it broke her heart to leave him but he was breaking her heart by keeping secrets from her. Suddenly her heart was racing in her chest and her body felt hot, he had been her comfort blanket for so long and now he was right in front of her again.

Ari, although this whole thing was pushing her to the edge, her staying up nights on end to produce work that would only bear her initials and nothing else worthy of recognition, let this time slide. As she has many times before. As it always will be. She received her new orders, her new project deadline and the feedback and turned away, heading out. Away from the damned jet (although she was so proud of everyone's work and how it turned out) and away from Mr Haworth.
She heard his voice before she saw him, and it was like a casual reminder of how easy it was for him to sneak up. Ari blinked at him over her shoulder. Shrugging she replied, "It's really not that big of a deal. It pays. So what." There was a little more to that though. She did once try to stand up and protest when he took credit but the look he gave her shut her up mid word. She looked down at the paper in her hand and scowled. "Now he wants an upgrade on a drone. Ridiculous."
Ari folded it. "What are you doing here anyway? Come to see the jet? Pretty thing, isn't it. Perfect in stealth. Flies in any position. Or are you just creeping around? That's scary you know, coming out of the darkness like you do." She put a hand to her chest, "Thought you were gonna kill me cause I looked at Mr Haw-haw the wrong way."

(haw-haw is Mr Haworth xD)

---

She had taken a whole while to notice him, and he almost forgot that his walking was a lot quieter than any other random, though he didn't exactly try to sneak. Luka ran a hand trough his hair when she turned around, casting a gaze over her from head to toe and not being secretive about it. She had grown. In a few ways. Career, life, age, and certainly in the hips.
"Here?" He questioned, looking around the place with this laid back look of his. "I need a change of bandage." He caught her expression then, and couldn't hold back a small smirk. Oh Grace.
Memories were sweet. But the salt was real. Keep the fact that you're in HYDRA from your girlfriend of a few years and suddenly there's a tantrum and break ups and ignored phone calls.
He didn't waste time, while she was still gaping at him he took off his shirt and hung it over to the side, sitting down in a nearby chair and facing his somewhat bruised shoulder to her.
"if you mean SHIELD," he added after a moment, "I work here. Have been for the past almost month. Being a replacement for them casualties in that Captains team. They decided they need men that can keep up and not get shot." He tilted his head and looked at her, sly grin breaking his lips. "Didn't know you were here." Lies. He knew.

(Sorry if Bucky's part isn't that great)

James listened to Aria’s voice, she was actually okay with not receiving credit just because her work still brought money in. He didn’t understand it but he let it go, as he couldn’t do anything other than go after Mr Haworth. “I wasn’t creeping around, I was told that I could come to see the jet.” He told her which was something that he usually wasn’t allowed to do, which showed James just how important this new jet was to Hydra. Not that he really cared about a jet, he wouldn’t get to use it or even go inside it so why did he need to see it? But it still let him get out of his room which he always liked, “Isn’t an upgrade easy for you?” He asked as he looked at her, she must have talent if Hydra keeps her working there and Mr Haworth takes her designs and uses them for himself. He hadn’t seen any of her work, so he wasn’t sure about how much talent she had.
He kept his eyes on her as he stepped closer to her, “Next time you decide to snoop around here. Don’t try when there are guards around,” He told her quietly so no one would overhear what he was saying to her, he couldn’t tell if she even remembered what she did last night but it was stupid of her to snoop around for anything at the base.

---

Grace watched as his eyes moved over her body, she used to love it when he looked at her in that way. But now, not so much because even though he was still handsome and he always would be. She still remembered the reason why they break up, she didn’t care if Luka didn’t understand the reason because she wasn’t going to stay with someone who couldn’t talk to her about everything and be open with her. She watched as he took his shirt off before he sat down on the chair close to her desk, she saw the bruises on his shoulder and knew that he had a dislocated shoulder not that long along. She removed the bandages and checked over his shoulder, her hands just as gentle as normal. Even though he wasn’t a patient that she wanted to have, there wasn’t anyone else around that could re-bandage his shoulder and she couldn’t turn him away.
“You work for Shield?” She was shocked as she didn’t know that, she had been at Shield for a while now and never heard his name or saw him. She wanted to tell him that not many people could keep up with Steve, but she held the comment back because it would only make Luka say something else that she probably wouldn’t like. “This shoulder tells me that you couldn’t keep up with someone,” She looked down at him and saw the sly grin that was across his face, she was used to this. They always used to banter when they first started dating, of course that turned into more but she knew this is how he was. She grabbed a fresh bandage and started to wrap his shoulder back up, “You should wait to let the swelling and bruising go down before you start working again.” Grace told him however she knew that he wouldn’t listen to her.

[No its fine!! ^-^]

Ari waved the folded paper a little, "Yeah, easy, but not with the things he wants. If i put everything he wants into that drone, that drone is gonna be double its size and then-" She started to rant off all the consequences and disadvantages that this would bring, clenching the paper enough that it started to wrinkle and the tips of her fingers turned white. "In short - he's dumb." She folded the paper once more, creasing the fold harder.
She tilted her head and looked at him. It must be sad, to have to sit in the room until needed, and such a delicacy to get out. She almost felt bad for taking for granted the freedom HYDRA gave her.
He stepped forward and Ari almost walked into him. She looked up, then away as if she were a child being scolded for some bad thing they had done. "So it was you," she murmured, twisting her lips to the side a little in some embarrassment. She didn't put up an excuse, like 'they weren't supposed to be there' or whatever - for while all those were valid, she felt this wasn't the time. Nobody was around at the moment, and that was the only reason she really let herself go so far. Reaching out she touched his chest and gave it a little pat. "Thank you." She hoped he knew what she meant. She stepped back quickly then, creating space, little bells of 'keep your distance!' ringing.
"What did you think of the jet?" She asked. "Be honest? I think its morbid looking. But whatever. I only designed the cockpit. They're testing today. I'll have feedback by evening. I'm so scared and nervous. This is like an exam, ya know? Depending on how that goes, I might get one project... or two... or maybe even three" she pulled a face, then grinned, sparkles dancing in her eyes, "Or one really big one."

---

He let her work on his shoulder, watching her face in the reflection of a nearby surface. He felt her hands, her touch, it all brought back really hazy memories. But that was really long ago, and the chick last night also touched him gently - so what. Girls had nice touches. He liked that. Whatever. Why would hers be any more different?
"I do now. Full time. Strike team. You know, the one with Rumlow." He waited for her to bandage him, tsking his tongue at her when she commented that he couldn't keep up with someone. He didn't reply to it, for he couldn't tell her where he had gotten the injury from (definitely not from SHIELD missions!) and instead said, "And something tells me you're not with someone." The smile on his lips was one-sided, more of a knowing smirk than anything. He stood up when she was done, and rolled his shoulder - just as she said not to go working again. "Sorry, what was that? I got a raid tomorrow. Can't cancel a date like that." He winked, returning to his flirty self, and put his shirt on. "I saw a bunch of nurses head out, and you're here doing - what is that, emails?" He glanced at her screen then back at Grace. "You should get out more. Nice being a doctor, I'm sure, but you need to live." His voice lowered, and although his lips still held that smile, his eyes were a little more serious. "A second chance at it wouldn't hurt."
And then, the door opened. And Steve walked in. Luka's head turned, smoothly but quickly.
"Captain," he greeted, now the smile was gone. Steve looked at him, was a little surprised to see him there, then returned the greeting, nodding, "Luka."
Steve held out his hand but Luka only looked at it, then smiled apologetically. "I would, but," he nodded to his bandaged shoulder. Steve dropped his hand and nodded understandingly, smiling then turned to Grace. "Sorry to barge in, I was just heading past and was asked to pass these to you?" He passed some papers that a nurse in a hall asked him to hand over. "Also, I was wondering if-" At this point, Steve realised that Luka was still standing there watching the two with quite intent interest, and Steve paused, "Sorry, am I interrupting something?" He looked apologetic, "I can come back later?"

James watched Aria closely, he noticed a few strands of her dark hair slowly falling from the tie that held her locks up. The pieces of hair hung around her face, she always did look innocent. Which is why he didn’t know why she worked for a company like Hydra, but he hadn’t asked her that yet. “Why not put it all into the drone, he wanted it and you can give it to him so you can show everyone how much of an idiot he is.” He spoke knowing that isn’t what Ari’s job was, she was supposed to take whatever Mr Haworth said and somehow fit it into a machine. He had seen the drone sitting on a stand in the office where Ari worked, but he didn’t completely understand how it worked or what it would be used for. At least she did know that it was he who had helped her out last night, he wanted to make sure she didn’t try anything that dangerous again. But if his words got through to her, he wouldn’t know until later on. He felt her small hand pat his chest, he looked down at her hand and wanted to take her hand into his. To feel the softness of her milky skin, to feel the warmth of her palm. But he couldn’t. She would think he was a creep and just plain strange.
James glanced over his shoulder so he could take a look at the jet again, “I guess it’s good. I don’t need a jet, it’s very dark. It’d only be good to use at night,” He commented as he looked back over at Ari, “They haven’t given you projects? But haven’t you been working here for a while now?” He asked out of curiosity, the work she has done must be done with other people. “Do you want to have more projects?” He looked at her although he could see the answer in her eyes, she did want more work that would actually mean something.

---

Grace had only heard about the Strike team, she hadn’t meant any of them and she probably would only ever meet them if they got injured. “I don’t know anything about the Strike team,” She shrugged her shoulders lightly as it was the truth, once she was finished she took her hands away from his shoulder. Just so she wouldn’t be tempted to continue touching him, his skin and body was still so familiar to her. She had to force herself not to fall into something that was familiar, it ended once between them and she didn’t want to get hurt over him again. She ignored his comment about her not being with anyone, she didn’t even bother saying anything back to him because it was true. She hasn’t had a serious relationship since Luka, and that wasn’t something she wanted him to know. “Then be more careful, you keep dislocating that shoulder and you’ll end up needing surgery on it.” She warned him as this wasn’t the first time she had to bandage that shoulder, she sighed softly as he was right. She did need to get out more, but she hardly ever did. Memories of the things they did together came back to her, he always used to make her get out of her comfort zone.
“Yeah, well someone has to stay behind and take care of things. So this place stays calm,” She lowered her voice, as she looked into his eyes she saw that he was being serious with her even if he was still trying to flirt with her. “A second chance would hurt,” Grace whispered to him before the door opened once again, she smiled when her eyes landed on Steve. She gave Luka a ‘grow up’ look when he didn’t shake Steve’s hand, when he could as his shoulder wasn’t that bad. “Thank you,” She smiled as she took the papers from Steve and set them down on her desk, she needed them so she was glad a nurse had dropped them off. “Oh, no. I’m sure Luka has somewhere else to be, next time you see Ari tell her that I say hi.” Grace quickly glanced over to Luka before turning her attention back onto Steve, “What did you need?” She asked wanting to know what he was about to ask her.

Ari put on a mock mimic of Mr Haworth's voice, "It gotta be the same size Ari. But contain all these extra things Ari. You can't get rid of the cooling system Ari. Bring me that coffee Ari." She rolled her eyes a little and shrugged. "Sometimes, when I train, he's the punching bag. It helps."
She waited for him to look at the jet, before starting to walk again, not wanting to linger by this big mass of people even though nobody could see them. "Oh but the great thing is, it can change colour. So you can use during the day. It'll become this small semi-reflective white thing that will make you not want to look, naturally." Although she walked, she walked slowly. The walk from here to her office wasn't really that long, and somehow she wanted to spend time with him a little more. He seemed to be warming. It both scared her and excited her. Maybe he'd start remembering, but also maybe they'd wipe him.
"Oh they have, but like small things, never really part of something big like this. Even though cockpit design is not really my thing." she laughed then, when he asked, "Of course I want more projects! It keeps me employed here." Ari stopped walking, for her office was just around the corner and looked at Barnes.

---

Luka raised a brow lightly, "Did i have somewhere to be?" He replied, not moving from his spot. An awkwardness hung in the air for a split second, before he broke into a laugh and stood, waving his hand dismissively. "I joke. Have a good day, both of you." Over his shoulder as he neared the door, he let Grace know he'd pass the message to Ari on, then the door closed and he was gone.

Steve watched the scene unfold, small assumptions coming up in his mind before Luka abruptly laughed and walked out. Steve relaxed. He looked at Grace and smiled. "There's a little temporary museum opening up in an exhibition center nearby. I was wondering if you wanted to go? Since you enjoy the markets, and..." He trailed off and put his hands together lightly, "Unless you're busy or have plans." He waited for her response, and it was so worrisome. He enjoyed spending time with her, but he didn't want to force his presence around her. That would not be good. She was really nice, and attracted him like a light attracts a moth but he didn't know how to feel about this. Maybe it was a side effect from sleeping for 70 or so years. He was still confused. Peggy was still one love, but he had to let that go soon. She would pass on, and he couldn't spend the rest of his life weeping about it. On the other hand, his life wasn't exactly flowers and sunshine. It could be dangerous. Just as Nick Fury's recent episode had proved.
His subconscious pulled and teased though. Something had been going on between Luka and Grace before he walked in that wasn't just a regular check up. He tried to brush it aside though. Maybe he was imagining things. Either way, imagination or not, he wouldn't pry.

James listened to her, she seemed to be answering his questions fairly easily. She wasn’t moving away from him or making up an excuse so he would leave, no she stayed right where she was. She confused the heck out of him. “Then I’m sure you can make this drone into what they want, I saw those designs.” He told her, he had only a quick glance at the design that Haworth was taking as his own but he was impressed with what he did see. He wouldn’t know the first thing about designing or making anything, all he knew was how to use the machines that were made and handed over to him. He walked along side Ari and looked over at her, “That’s smart.” He murmured hearing that the jet can change colour, of course an aircraft could change colour and blend in with whatever was surrounding it. “Maybe they’ll notice how talented you are soon,” He commented when they stopped walking, he looked through the door to see people were busy at their desks. “I hope to see you soon, Ari.” He looked at her and lightly nodded his head before he continued walking down the hallway, he did want to see her again because he already knew what needed to be done that day.

It was two hours after Bucky had left Ari, Mr Haworth walked straight into Ari’s office without knocking which wasn’t all that unusual for him. “Make the guns fire quicker and more bullets, you’ll be over seeing this one.” He spoke as he placed her latest work back down onto her desk, but there was a difference to her design. Her name was written in the bottom right corner, Haworth was clearly shaken up over something and he wasn’t looking Ari in the eye. He was putting her down or degrading her, he had been warned not to by the Winter Soldier who had cornered him in his office and pinned him against the wall. He threatened him back but because of that, he now had a fist sized hole in the wall of his office.

---

Grace relaxed once Luka had left, she really hoped that he didn’t cause trouble for her and Steve. Although nothing had happened between them and she wasn’t sure if anything would, but she liked Steve and he always made her feel comfortable. She smiled when he asked her to visit this temporary museum, “I’d really like that.” She told him warmly as she stopped herself from thinking it was a date, Steve hadn’t exactly said the word date so it could be two friends going out and enjoying a museum and each other’s company. But Grace did hope it was a date. “And I’m sorry about Luka, I had no idea he was here or is in that Strike team. It’s a long story,” She looked at Steve and it was a long story, they had a lot of history together and she was open about it. She’d tell Steve but she didn’t think right now was the time or place to get into it, she could tell him the short version which probably wouldn’t hurt that much. “We were together a few years ago, I hadn’t seen or heard from him since we broke up. Seeing him again… it’s weird,” She explained to him just so that he’d know, Grace didn’t want Steve to hear it from Luka which is something he’d do.
Besides Luka being there didn’t change anything, she ended their relationship for a good reason and she had years to move on from him which she has. She did love Luka, he was her first real love and she’d never forget him. But it’s over between them, at least she knew it was.

Ari felt all warm at his comment on her smartness. She managed to reply a thank you somehow, but not before her cheeks tinted pink. "I'll see you soon," she said and watched his back as he left before turning into the office and finding hers, sitting down and spending the next two hours drawing and calculating and remodelling the drone. Nothing was working but in those two hours she didn't expect anything to happen. Nothing was a miracle. Everything was work.
Haworth's sudden visit and weird acting surprised and put her on a wary edge, but the new project was here and the latest had her name on it. She was surprised at this change, why? Since when? Something nagged at the back of her head but she didn't want to jump to conclusions.
She took the new project and looked it over before turning to her boss and asking him a few small details, then spending the next few hours working on it. Over those few hours a few people came and visited her, congratulated her and eventually it became all too much and Ari snuck out of the office and headed for training room after dropping her stuff off in her small room and changing. Nobody would bother her there, she needed the exercise and the break.

---

Steve was really relieved when she accepted, even though he didn't know why he had been so nervous. It was just a friendly outing to a common interests event, right? Just a friendly outing, casual, no need to be so nervous! It's what he kept in his mind when he asked, so why was he so afraid of her saying no? Steve didn't know. He felt like that little kid from Brooklyn all over again. Maybe it was the Saturday, and the not so good association...? "Great!" He said, smiling.
He had already forgotten about Luka but when she brought him up he listened attentively and nodded, understanding but not personally knowing that experience. "I see. Ive been on a few missions with him, he's a good team member." He didn't add much else for he hadn't had the chance to get to know the guy better. Breaks up happen though, he supposed, but he could understand the weirdness in seeing a loved one again at an unexpected place. "I sort of understand seeing him being weird again," he replied truthfully and offered a comforting smile.
"Did you have a break yet by the way?" He glanced the time. Everyone was headed out to eat.

Bucky had really been minding his own business for the day, however he was happy with his little meeting that he forced Haworth in having with him. He made it clear that Haworth needed to treat Ari better, or he’d come back and he wouldn’t be as nice. He wasn’t sure if Haworth even listened to him, until he found Ari in the training room. She had already gotten changed and was working out, Bucky stood back without saying a word and simply watched her. He didn’t want to interrupt her again, although he was glad that it was so easy to find her. This time he cleared his throat quietly, so he wouldn’t startle her as much as he did before. “Hello again, how was your day?” He was curious, he wanted to know if Haworth was treating her better and giving her more projects to do. Bucky was very firm in making Haworth agree to never take credit for something he didn’t do, including the design that Ari had handed over to him that morning.
“How is the drone coming along?” He asked as his shoulder pressed against the wall as he stood there leaning onto the wall, he didn’t want to tell her what he had done. He wasn’t sure if she would be happy or upset with him, although she was incredibly smart and it shouldn’t take long before she worked out that he was somehow involved in the sudden turn out that Haworth has hopefully made.

---

Grace wasn’t sure how much Steve would understand, as far as she knew the only woman he had gotten close to was Peggy. And they didn’t exactly break up, but she didn’t make any comment about it. “I just wanted you to hear it from me, knowing Luka he would have told you himself.” She explained to him before she glanced at the clock on the wall, she smiled when she did see the time. “I do have a break now, I’m pretty hungry.” She smiled at him as she was glad that he didn’t have a mission, she really enjoyed spending time with him and didn’t want it to stop. She grabbed her purse before she walked out into the hallway with him, “Have you heard about any missions? Or do you have a break because of what happened?” She asked although he might not even know himself, she didn’t want to bring up what happened to Fury because he was there when it did go down. He had talked to her about it after it happened, but she still didn’t want to bring it up.
She remembered when Fury himself came to her and offered her a job in Shield, she had only been a doctor for two years before he showed up at her apartment. Fury wouldn’t want them to stop just because he died, but it was really all up to Steve if he took a mission or not.

Even though he cleared his throat, even though it was quiet, he still surprised her with his presence. She put a hand to her chest and with a small nervous laugh replied, "One day my poor old heart will stop. I'm not used to people creeping up on me quietly, unintentionally as it may be." She wiped her brow and turned to him fully. "My day was quite... hectic. My name got on the paper, somehow," at this word she looked at him curiously, then continued, "And so many people came to give their opinions and mostly it was congratulatory. Lots of feedback, was nice. It was so overwhelming though. I'm not used to having so much attention." She fiddled with her glove, looking down, suddenly a little shy. She was happy, very happy, but she didn't want to brag. Though a smile returned to her face when she told him that indeed, she had gotten one more project and "Although it does require guns." She pouted a little but returned the smile to her face soon enough so he wouldn't think she was complaining - because she wasn't, she would just prefer to work on something so less violent, "But I can't be too picky. That's not my job. My job is to make."
Ari tilted her head at the mention of the drone and waved her hand, "Oh that? Oh man, that's.... not coming along at all. But it's okay, it is only my first day actually working on it. I'll manage something." She ran her hand through her hair, loosening a few strands and looking away, but not because she wanted him to leave, but because she was suddenly so very aware of her own appearance in front of him. Probably a little red from the workout, definitely somewhat sweaty, how embarrassing! She sneaked a look at him, quietly asking, "Are you not going to train?" She tugged on her tshirt a little, suddenly super self-conscious, suddenly feeling so very young and like a stupid teenager. She'd need to start wearing maybe some slackier pants, and not legging-like yoga pants, if guys (especially Barnes!!) were going to show up during her training time!

---

He smiled, happy she was free and ready to take a break. He waited for her to grab her things and then walked out with her, himself already dressed for break in his jacket and sunglasses hanging from his tshirt. "There's a small cafe just outside this building, its quiet and hidden away, not many people go there except for a few SHIELD workers and locals, have you seen it? It has great lunches." He held a few doors open for her on the way out to the hallway, shrugging when asked about the missions. "Oh, a little bit of both. I'm sure there will be a new mission soon, once the new admin rights are properly established. Meanwhile, missions are just to complete paperwork." Steve laughed and rubbed the bridge of his nose as they waited for an elevator. He really didn't like paperwork. More get out there and be in the field sort of guy. But sometimes things had to be done. At any case, it was better than performing on stage and reading dumb scripts from a piece of paper while men who risked their lives in war watched you act a hero with a tonne of pompom girls singing behind you. That was... not what he had wanted. He was glad he didn't have to do that anymore.
The elevator ride was, luckily, uneventful, no Natasha to barge in and make suggestive winks, no Luka to interrupt with a shower of awkward. No HYDRA members to burst in and try to capture him. "Did you want to work for SHIELD?" he asked Grace, looking over as they rode down. "A lot of people dream to work here, it's a pretty impressive organisation, don't you think?"

[Ahh sorry so short for both o:]

[No, that's fine. Don't worry about it!]

James felt a small smile form across his face when he still startled her, “That little old heart of yours should get used to it.” He never smiled, not at anything because his life didn’t usually have many happy moments where he wanted to smile. But this smile formed so easily on his lips, mainly because of Ari. He listened to what she was saying, which is exactly the outcome that he wanted to happen. Haworth had done what he ordered and now more people that she worked with were also praising her, which is what she deserved because of how hard she worked and how talented she was. “That sounds like a very good thing, Haworth must have had a change of mind then.” He told her keeping it a secret that he was involved, as long as she was working and was happy then he wouldn’t tell her what he did. He’d still need to keep an eye on Haworth, to make sure that he continued to treat her right and give her more projects to work on. Bucky wouldn’t think twice about going to see Haworth again if anything changed, “You’re getting the attention that you deserve. You’ll grow used to it in no time,” He somewhat assured her as she would need to get used to the attention and praise, he’d make sure it continued for as long as he possibly could.
Bucky watched Ari and took in her appearance at the same time, he slowly took a few steps closer to her. She was very beautiful, in a way that who attract many men but she was also beautiful on the inside. Which is what was attracting him now, even which flushed cheeks and sweat beads forming on her forehead. It only made her more stunning. “You’ll work it out, I’m sure it’s not the first time you’ve overcome a challenge.” He lowered his voice as he looked at her, knowing her cousin couldn’t ruin their time together now as he wasn’t there. “No, I’ve already trained today.” He told her simply as he reached out with his good hand, his fingers lightly tucked some of her dark hair back behind her ear. He wasn’t sure why he did it, but there was this urge inside him to touch her.

---

“I’ve heard of that café but I haven’t been there yet,” Grace smiled as she had been meaning to go to the café, she’s only ever heard good things about the staff and food there. She walked beside Steve and stepped into the elevator, she knew there had to be a mission coming for him soon. Not that she wanted him to go, she did worry about him when he had a mission. Even though he always came back safely, sometimes he had a few cuts and bruises but that was about all the injures that he would receive. However there was always that thought in the back of her mind, which she tried not to ever think about. She looked at him when he asked her a question, “I honestly never thought it. My Grandpa was so I always knew that it existed, but my parents never wanted me to be in SHIELD. I was out of medical school for two years, I was working at a hospital when Fury came to me. Apparently he had been watching me for a while, he said that he saw great things in my future and that I belonged with SHIELD.” Grace explained to Steve, it was something that she hadn’t told many people because it was a moment in her life that she wanted to keep for herself. “At that point in my life I did feel lost, I felt like I didn’t fit in at the hospital and I had lost my Grandma. So I took Fury’s offer to work here,” She smiled as she loved working at SHIELD, she did feel like she belonged there and she never once dreaded going to work.
“It’s an amazing organisation,” Grace agreed as the elevator doors opened and she stepped out with Steve, she walked through the foyer with him until they got outside and headed around the corner to where the café was. The café wasn’t busy, there was only an elderly couple sitting inside at a table. So Grace found a table towards the back and sat down, she grabbed a menu and looked through all the delicious meals. “It all looks so good,” She bit down onto her bottom lip as she tried to decide on what she wanted, the chicken breast burger sounded perfect to her right now.

“I’m no field agent, Barnes, “ She wiggled her finger, chuckling, “I work in an office. We stomp and we yell.” It was true. People in offices tried to be quiet in working ours but really, it could get quite loud! Especially when people burst into one’s room with papers flying everywhere – she was used to that. The smell of perfume, of coffee, of ink printing, she would catch that before the person even appeared but these field agents, these stealthy guys, they appeared out of nowhere, quiet and sudden. And they usually didn’t have a smell that she could recognise instantly.
“Yes, he must have had a change of mind…” She trailed off and again looked at him, but he didn’t say anything that could have given him away as the cause of this so she told herself to stop questioning it. If he did do it, she was grateful, if he didn’t but some miracle was bestowed then so be it. She wasn’t going to question good fortune!
“I’m certainly thankful for it,” she replied, “But I hope this is temporary, else I might have to lock myself up in my room to work!” She rubbed her cheeks, closing her eyes at the image and laughing. How ridiculous! She’d die in ramen probably.
His lowered voice caught her attention and she opened her eyes, and suddenly he was closer and his fingers touching her hair. For a moment, she stiffened in more surprise but with a tinge of fear, but it was brief. Her hair, not her neck, not her temple. She relaxed. But now she trembled. His proximity was really overwhelming. All her senses in regards of her self-consciousness heightened. This would be perfectly okay if she weren’t in a state of mess! Maybe even better if he wasn’t known to kill people in one blow. She still had to stay reasonable. She put her hand on his chest, and pushed a little, stepping back herself to create some distance again.
Ari bit her lip, feeling her cheeks redden, “Don’t take that personally. I’m just not exactly smelling of flowers.”
I want the ground to open up and swallow me, She thought.

---

Steve listened to her, raising an eyebrow at the mention of her grandfather. He worked for SHIELD too? He smiled lightly, recalling her mentioning that he told her parents to be there for her birthday in that photo in her apartment. “Your grandfather sounds like he had some real great authority,” he said with a chuckle. He expressed his sympathy when she mentioned her grandmother passing away, and allowed a small moment of silence for politeness before adding, “I can imagine Fury turning up unannounced. Must have been a surprise.” Steve walked with her outside and to the corner of the café, entering and sitting down at the table with her. He too looked at the menu, agreeing that it looked extremely tempting!
“You probably heard of how I got my place here,” he said, setting down the menu having chosen what he would like to eat. It was really common knowledge, and everybody saw it. He was found in ice, they defrosted him, they put him in a room and then he in his panic ran out onto the streets in some bedroom PJ-like clothing. Certainly some flashy appearance.
“Oh, you should try the – uh – “ He reached over to show a small title on the menu, his hand brushing hers by accident on the way, “the – oops, sorry – Jasmine rice sometime. It’s really nicely done here.” He pulled back and gestured for a waiter when they were ready to order. The young waiter rushed up, ready to take orders.
“The usual, please,” Steve told him and the waiter jotted it down before turning to Grace and smiling to her.
Steve used that moment to calm himself. Her skin was so soft! He couldn’t remember the last time he had ever touched skin so soft. Was it a doctor thing? He didn’t know. He hadn’t exactly been close to Natasha’s skin to check if it was just a girl thing. And men certainly didn’t have that. And it has been almost 70 years since he last touched a girl.