Avengers: A New Job Description [Genkai & bee]

[bumbledbee]

Tony Stark

"Jarvis, run the simulation again with these modification," he said as he stood in front of one of his work desks, virtual monitors set up all around him as his hands moved to manipulate the images. He had been down there for two days straight, which wasn't uncommon for him to do when he was busy with something. He was working on saving the world, though this time there wasn't any angry Russian scientists trying to kill him or trusted business partners trying to steal his designs. This time Tony had taken to a project that could save humanity by eliminating the need for fossil fuels, wipe away the demand for drilling oil in foreign countries. The Green energy race was something that had become important to Tony, weapons were so last season. Everyday the people needed him he would put on that suit and be their Iron Man, now he wanted Tony Stark to be the hero.

“Running the simulation again, Sir. Results should be ready within fifteen minutes,” the voice sounded back as another virtual window popped up in front of him. Sweeping his hand over, then twisting his wrist he grabbed a piece of data, crumpled it up in his hands and tossed it into a trash bin.

“Make it ten minutes,” he said as he sat down in the chair behind him. “As you wish, Sir,” the voice spoke as the simulation window’s percentage counter increased in speed. Propping his elbow on the arm of his chair he began rubbing his fingers over his chin, sitting there for only a few minutes was making him antsy so he jumped up and headed towards the television. The volume had been muted but the picture was clear and made one of his brows arch. There was a man, maybe a few years younger, standing behind a podium. He couldn’t hear the words but he seemed to be enjoying to hear himself talk and there, in the corner of the screen was a picture of himself. Tony frowned, it wasn’t even a good picture. Scrolling letters at the bottom read, ‘Nathan Cowl calls Stark out on Green Race’. The eccentric man’s eyes darted from every corner of the room as if he were there, at the top corner of the television screen it read ‘Live’.

Snatching the remote from the table he pressed the mute button and blared the volume more then he needed to for him to hear. Which was just in time to hear...

“Tony Stark is a fraud!”

Really? I’m a fraud?

“We all know Mr. Stark loves to show boat, his personal exploits are better documented then all his heroic accomplishments. Sure, he’s given us Iron Man but is he really a man we want representing the future of clean energy evolution?” the smug young man asked with supporting cheers from the crowd. He must have paid them. “This country needs a representative who they can be proud of, who’s actions speak louder then his words. I’ve already proven myself, my company has provided clean energy to less fortunate village communities in Africa for over a year now. Mr. Stark thinks he can step in and take over a dream others have been working for their whole career.”

Slightly pouting he hit the mute button again then tossed the remote back onto the table. Bringing his hand up he began tapping his fingers against the blue, glowing circle in the middle of his chest then cocked his head up, “Jarvis, call Ms. Potts for me.”

“Already dialing her number, Sir. Also, Sir, the simulation has reached 37% completion,” Jarvis tells him as another window pops up with Pepper’s image and the words ‘ Dialing...’ next to it.

“Good. And see what you can find on our friend here,” he added as he turned back to the monitors though never looked back up at them. Instead he took a seat, picked up one of his Iron Man gloves and a tool and began tinkering with it.

“Of course, Sir. You know how well I am at multi-tasking,” Jarvis replied with Tony just simply nodding.

~~~~~

Natasha Romanoff

Natasha Romanoff, AKA, Black Widow, her past was a sorted thing. She was good at what she does, even though there were things now she wasn’t exactly proud of. Not until she began her work with S.H.I.E.L.D. had she believed she was finally using her unique skills for something worthy. Even that had been hard to digest at first, so many years had the Russians used her, planted thoughts and beliefs in her head. She had obeyed without question, she still obeys without question but she had found a place where her opinion mattered. But for everything she has done for Fury, for humanity it never seemed to rid her of the guilt and regret of her past.

She was one of the quiet ones, everyone knew how dangerous she could be and that she still had her issues. The master spy who could charm her way out of any situation while still holding a knife to your throat. Nick Fury trusted her, that’s all she really needed. He had been one of the first to see past her history and believe in the good she could accomplish. He saved her life, in mores ways then one and she owed him everything.

So, it didn’t seem such a bothering request that he asked her to help S.H.I.E.L.D.’s newest project get back on it’s feet. Captain Steve Rodgers, otherwise known as Captain America. He was truly a fascinating story even without the addition of being the first super soldier. He was a living relic, after fighting a group of German fanatics he had ended up frozen in time and seemingly lost to the world. His bravery had lived on of course, Phil was a constant reminder of that with his vintage Captain America trading cards. It was cute to see the grown man with such enthusiasm so childishly but could at times be simply annoying.

In the 1940’s, Howard Stark had managed to recover the Tesseract that had fallen from Rodgers’ aircraft the day he battled Red Skull. Which even as she thought about it, they were using that power for the Phase 2 project in the guise of clean energy research. She had been instructed to play ‘dumb’ to the information she had. And it was something that the Captain just didn’t need to know about, obviously it would break his trust with S.H.I.E.L.D. and they needed him. Back to Rodgers... They had found him frozen inside the aircraft, over seventy years after the crash. By some miracle, he was still alive which had a lot to do with the super soldier experiment. Phil had been the one who kept a constant watch over him, the look in his eyes as he saw his hero alive was priceless. Of course, Natasha had seen him several times as well. Her visits however were for professional reasons and often brief.

Now it seemed her and the Captain would be spending a lot of time together, if he agreed. He wasn’t a hard man to find either, spending most of his days down in the gym punishing bags. She could only imagine how he felt, waking up in a world that moved on without you. Often she wondered how she would deal with something like that, and more then likely it would be punching bags into pulp as well. Half way down the hall to the gym she could already hear the sound of fists hitting into sand with such loud impact. The heels of her boots clicked across the floor, entering the doorway she stopped and leaned against the entrance then crossed her arms under her chest and watched him for a moment. There he was, a true living legend and American hero. She had read his personality profile, his idealism still stuck in the ‘40’s making him polite and morally sound.

Natasha was dressed in casual street clothes, blue jeans, heeled knee high boots, a red blouse slightly hidden underneath a vintage black leather jacket. A while longer she watched, waiting until he ceased his punches, “How are we doing today, Captain?” she asked, letting a warm smile stretch across her lips.

[Genkai]

Pepper Potts

The transition from L.A to NYC wasn't too hard to Tony Stark's personal assistant.

Pepper Potts was fully capable of adjusting to new settings, most of which were in part thanks to her eccentric moody boss, Tony Stark otherwise known as Iron Man. The woman had been working alongside the dark haired billionaire for over decade. And within those years many rumors had circulated around regarding her and her boss. Were they together? Was she just hired for her looks? Was he just keeping a hooker on a professional retainer? Did they hook up? Was it in her contract? Many of these wild accusations were ignored by Stark Industries. They were that outlandish. Whoever thought she and Tony Stark could ever be a 'thing' were too insane to talk to. While her social life had been greatly stunted thanks to her work, she liked to think that someday she would break free and find someone nice and settle down. Why on earth would she want to watch herself work until she died as Tony Stark's assistant.

Working for said genius wasn't too terrible though. She loved her job, if she didn't, she wouldn't have been able to put up with its demanding pressure or Tony's annoying quirks for as long as she had. Still, Pepper rarely had time to date and maybe if she did date some of the obnoxious rumors would simmer down. But would she be able to find someone she could trust and someone who Tony would rip to shreds? Her job could intimidate people just as much as her boss could. Finding a man who didn't care about petty details was hard to do when the redhead barely had any time for herself. So at the end of the day, her social life had taken a backseat while she worked on papers and scheduled meetings and fetched coffee and handled press release statements. Over all, Pepper barely noticed how lonely her life was until she finally got in bed.

That was it.

There was no one to talk to at the end of a long stressful day. She was alone but too busy to notice it usually. But there were points during the day where she would be so stressed that she wanted to talk to someone. The last person she could complain to was Tony. They were friends but things were complicated between them. Not to mention they had kissed and then pretended it never happened. What on earth had I been thinking? She would wonder to herself whenever the event crept back into her mind, as if finding a way out of the corner it had been shoved into. But to answer her own question, it had just been the moment. The woman had been swept into a hero's arms and her life had been saved. She was overwhelmed and just kissed him because she almost died and he almost died and they were together and it was all sorts of mismatched romance, a disaster waiting to happen really.

And it was that fact, that she and Tony Stark were a horrible idea fabricated by nuts who wanted Tony to fail, that made Pepper Potts cringe slightly. Maybe because she once toyed with the idea when she was sober. Either way, Pepper was now even more busy with Tony's new 'Green Race' idea thing. She was so busy that she forgot about being in a new city or that she and her boss once kissed. She was running around and making plans. Tony seemed determined, slightly more than usual, to give himself a better name. After dealing with fishy weaponry for so long, it wouldn't happen over night but Pepper was happy to help. She had just left her own apartment, courtesy of Tony, when she walked down the street and saw the news from inside a tv store. She paused having caught Tony's name. With a sigh, she pulled out her PDA and went right to work. She was greeted with several e mails asking about the man's statements. Pepper quickly got Tony's coffee and was in route to his own apartment which had been equipped with his tech and lab essentials.

They were only a block away so Pepper ignored Tony's ringtone and just let herself into his apartment and set the coffee down. "I assume you've seen the press release from your latest fanboy." Pepper smiled as she set her purse down. She had on her usual attire of a skirt, blazer and blouse, and heels. Her strawberry tinted hair was twisted up into a bun as she picked up her own disposable cup of coffee. His apartment was much bigger than hers but then again, she spent more with him than anywhere else so she didn't care. And she was a simple girl with simple tastes, she hated all of the extravagant luxuries Tony thrived on. "I can prepare a press conference this afternoon or you can give me something to release if you want to stay holed up in here some more..." Pepper smiled and waved a hand slightly as she set her cup down and walked over to the tv and turned it off mute to hear the man finish.

"A man like Tony Stark lacks real conviction and values, he isn't someone our children should be looking up to." Cowl said. "A man too distracted by his meaningless work to notice anything else outside the small world of his." Pepper just turned it off and smirked a little. Poor Tony. She thought and shook her head. "He really hates you...I guess a fruit basket exchange isn't going to happen." She laughed slightly and glanced to her boss.

- - -

Steve Rogers

The super solider had woken up in a time of confusion. He had a date, he had made a date with Peggy and he knew he couldn't keep it. He knew as soon as he hit the water he would be dead but the world would be saved. Peggy would be saved. He would be a good man and that's all he needed. Wasn't it? But when he awoke, he was surprised to find himself alive. What had happened? Before he could take anything in, he knew that if he was alive he could find Peggy and they could have that dance. He went to find her but what he found instead was a different would more corrupt than when he had supposedly left it. So much had changed and he felt more alone than ever. Everyone he knew was dead, or pretty darn close to it. Steve was still trying to grasp concepts that many would laugh at.

He was outsider in a world he had saved.

Yet he knew he needed to move on. And also to break inside of it. The world had changed and he had not. Was he supposed to change with it? Was he supposed to put on tight clothes, dye his hair and slip on shades to hide his pure blue eyes? Steve wasn't ready to more culture shock. Enough of that threatened to kill him whenever he turned on the television. He was still working his way toward the computer. The closest man he considered a father figure was Howard Stark. That great man had passed away some tie ago and Steve only knew about Tony Stark. From what Steve had heard, Tony was a lot like his womanizing old man. But unlike Tony, Howard had earned Steve's respect. And now Steve wasn't sure what to do. He honestly wanted very little to do with Tony or anyone else.

Even so, the shy boy did have some fire within him. The ice hadn't stolen that away from him at least. The boy wanted to fight, to do something but at the moment there wasn't much to do. It seemed things were safe thanks to other heroes. Captain America seemed no longer needed and Steve was trying to fall back into civilian life but it wasn't easy. For the most part, he stayed in his room at SHIELD unless he was in the gym pounding away or working out somehow. He wanted to stay in shape but he also wanted something to do. There were a few times that he would be approached by someone to go out to a movie or to look around New York some more but it made him nervous. So all the blond could do was decline and retreat back within his shell like an old tortoise. His will to move on was hard to capture and utilize it seemed.

However it was possible that thanks to Nick Fury, that Steve Rogers could see some glimmer within his life. His sort of young life. There was an undercover mission that they were considering him for. The details weren't to be divulged as of yet and Steve was still thinking about how to embrace everything. Would a new mission help him or just hamper any progress? Steve knew living a life indoors wasn't much of a life at all but he still couldn't help but feel like the scrawny boy who wanted to fight and do something. He felt sort of useless even as a beefed up male who could bench press over twice his own body weight. At the current moment, the man was in the gym. He hardly slept much as he saw little use for it, if only to store up energy. He didn't dream much, and when he did, it was blurred visions of the past. Sometimes he'd see Peggy or Bucky. But most of the time, it was nothing.

And it was that nothing that made him wander off the gym even in the middle of the night.

But at the moment, Steve was punching and ignoring the fact that he had woken up hours before the sun had. And now it was up to keep him company. As he moved to grab another bag which he kept by him, he heard familiar clicking. Heels. He thought of Peggy for a moment but knew it must be Agent Romanoff. The two had spoken a few times in the past. From what Steve could gather, she was a professional and a trusted comrade. She was strong and had interesting tales of Stark to tell him. Even so, they didn't speak too often, she was either off working for Fury or he was hiding someplace. But he had heard Fury mention that the new undercover mission would require him and Ms. Romanoff. Working with another person, let alone a female, did make him a bit uneasy. Of course he had yet to formally accept the mission. In the end, in his heart, he knew he would. If he was needed, he would do whatever he could to get the job done.

Hooking up the new punching bag, he paused and turned to see the slender woman in his own sanctuary. Despite it being used by other SHIELD members, he was usually left alone out of respect. Or maybe fear or something. "Agent Romanoff, hello ma'am." Steve greeted her and stood there, not wanting to be rude and ignore her. "I'm doing just fine, and yourself?" He asked her. "Have you heard anything about the mission floating around?"

[bumbledbee]

Tony Stark

Tony would glance up at the 'dialing...' monitor every few seconds as he pretended to work on his glove, which he nearly ended up stripping the small screw holding the lense over the energy source. He completely stopped, dropped both on the desk and looks over at the television where he makes a face like a child receiving socks for Christmas. ‘Tony Stark is a Womanizer’. He slumped back in his chair and all the muscles in his body just fell. Now, if this were public, he’d be treating this as he normally would. With jokes, sarcasm and the charm only he possessed. Privately, it actually hurt. People were cheering for this man, so what did they really think about him? His mind went back to Fury’s assessment of his candidacy for the Avengers Initiative, they had wanted Iron Man but not Tony Stark. But he was Iron Man, Tony Stark was Iron Man but nobody wanted him. Suddenly he had the craving for a really strong drink but just then his salvation walked through the door.

Usually when your best friend walked in you greeted them with a smile, a hand shake or maybe even a hug if they were a good enough friend. After all, she was what kept him going, he’s told her that, maybe in not those exact words or the convincing tone. He couldn’t function without her, life as a businessman would swallow him alive and she was the only one who kept that from happening. She was the only woman who respected him, brushed aside his advances with a smile and something witty said. Pepper was the only woman who knew how Tony worked, all that chaos and disorganization in his head right down to his childishness and volatile behavior. Even when she had been reluctant at first with his Iron Man crusade, in the end she was standing right there with him. And he gave her everything, access to his personal accounts up to free run of his Industry. His favorite gift she had bought herself for her own birthday was and will always be that blue dress.

But no, he didn’t greet her with a smile or anything along those lines. If he had she probably would have thought he was dying or something. Instead, he picked up the glove again and started tinkering and wiped away the former look on his face. After she asked about seeing his newest little fanboy he spouted his usual sarcasm, “I know there’s a very mean man on the television spewing outlandishly terrible things about me.” He’d then twirl around in his chair and give her a mock look of emotional pain, “Please make the bad man stop being mean to me,” twirling again he went back to tinkering.

“Is your phone broken? I just tried to call you,” was his answer it seemed when she asked if he wanted to give a press statement of some kind. He sighed deeply, he could hear that man talking again and what he heard just stung him. Again he dropped his work, ignoring Jarvis’ alert that his simulation had then reached 77% and sat there quietly for a moment just staring. Finally he twirled in his chair again so he could look at her, pulling a look of Tony sincerity, “Do you think I’m a fraud?” The question hadn’t much time to linger, Tony talked fast, as fast as his brain usually worked. “People don’t want Tony Stark... they want the guy who flies in a suit of armor saving the day. But what about when Tony Stark wants to save the day? It’s not good enough, is it?”

He looks at her a moment, seems to wait until she starts to open her mouth then gets up and continues his rambling as he moves toward his cup of coffee and chuckled. “I’d just like to believe, people would be supporting me on this after everything I’ve done. And why does this have to be a race? Shouldn’t we be working together... holding hands and singing by the fire as we hug a tree? Instead of playing, who’s more popular to save the world. Why is it I’m only popular...,” he pauses and takes a drink from his coffee which he indicates that burned his mouth but just keeps on. “...when I’m making weapons or being the weapon?” Examining his cup for the little fine print he points an accusing finger, “They really need to make these warning messages bigger.” Shaking his head he took another drink despite just seconds ago burning his mouth, grimacing again he placed the cup on the table with a clapping sound and just stared at her.

This was Tony upset, the rapid, seemingly out of place ranting. Only a few people could read between the lines and see how much this was really bothering him. It wasn’t the fact that some pencil neck jerk was putting his name through the mud, he could handle slander like that from those types. It was the cheering of what he was saying that hurt him. And then he waited, for that vote of confidence he need. Some inspiring words of wisdom to make him feel better and keep pushing on. Or maybe just a reality check to slap him in the face.

~~~~~

Natasha Romanoff

Natasha noted the bags on the floor, some were new while others looked as if they had been ran through a severe beating which they of course had. She nearly chuckled when he called her ma’am, though it was more from how he implied it. Other agents she was accustomed to them calling her ma’am but that was because of the rank and authority she carried. He was completely different, coming from an age where women were treated with respect by a gentleman. “I’m doing well, Captain. I see you’re making constructive use of your time,” she said as she pulled away from the doorway and took a few steps into the gym’s interior. Her arms uncrossing only to slip into her jacket pockets, stopping a few feet from where he was standing.

Again, she could only imagine how lonely it must have been, how alarming to wake up in a strange new world. They had hoped that learning the news of victory for the American and Allied Forces in World War II would help give him peace. She wasn’t a soldier but she knew if she had woken up like this she’d have to be doing something besides setting in this gym all day working on muscle tone. That’s why Fury had suggested him as her partner, which at first she questioned given the fact he was a fighter and not a spy. There were other agents that could pull his part off more effectively then she thought he could. But Fury convinced her to give him a chance. It wasn’t an exciting assignment most likely for such a hero like Captain America but it was important.

She had her briefing after formally accepting the job, Fury would fill her in on the details once Steve accepted. If he accepted. And maybe it would do him good, she could manage watching his back and performing the assignment without issue. Perhaps working with a woman made him nervous, but he had yet to see what this seemingly non-threatening woman could do. “I have. I’ve already accepted. That’s why I’ve come to check in on you,” she said with a smile. “Fury would like to see if you’re up for an undercover assignment... but you knew that. So, I guess what we’re wondering is, have you thought about it?”

Tilting her head slightly as she looked up at him, in her mind she already knew the major details and it was hard even for her not to burst into chuckles. As much of a proper gentlemen as he was, all that moral fiber she had to wonder how he’d react. It wouldn’t have been her first time working under these kind of conditions, she had even worked a few like this before S.H.I.E.L.D. but that was just simply in her skill set. Undercover meant you did what ever it was required of you to get the job done, things sometimes got messy when you had to infiltrate the objective’s network. Sometimes you had to do things you wouldn’t be proud of later.

It was another major concern she had taking him of all people, his good nature and decent set of mind could be jeopardized after this. Not being as skilled as the other agents there was that risk of awkwardness, isolation and complete withdrawal from S.H.I.E.L.D. all together. She hoped that he would be able to take this as a mission, not let it get personal. Things got so complicated when they became personal and she had enough regret in her life for several more lifetimes.

“I think this would do you a lot of good, Captain. And if at any time you’re unsure I’ll be there to help guide you back on track. I’ll be leaving soon after receiving the full details on the objective, so I’m afraid you don’t have much more time to think about it,” she informed him kindly. She had already picked another agent to take his place and was ready to go if by some reason he refused.

[Genkai]

Pepper Potts

"Oh I can talk to his mother for you, get him to stop picking on you." Pepper just retorted as she saw Tony just get back to work as if she hadn't walked in. She glanced to the phone in her hand. "Don't you dare touch my phone, it is not broken, I just had my hands a bit full." Pepper said. He had offered a few times to amp up her phone and PDA but she refused to let him get his hands on her things. Pepper wasn't the most tech savvy, though she worked for a physics genius. She had trouble with just using her DVR sometimes. Most of what Tony would ramble about, would go over her head in regards to his tinkering and upgrades but it made him happy. She knew that when he was alone in his lab, just dressed in a Black Sabbath shirt and grease stained jeans, and working on cars and tech, he was most comfortable.

Gliding over to a couch, she sat down and was about to ask about a statement for the press, he spoke up and looked to her, catching her attention. Pepper set her things down on the glass table in front of her and leaned forward, looking at him. Tony seemed to have taken the man's comments rather seriously. He hardly let anyone get under her skin and that's what made Pepper grow a bit worried. She was about to say something but the man got up and continued to talk. It was a rare moment to see him like this so she was patient in listening to his concerns. Knowing she was one of the few aside from Rhodey who he'd talk to about this made her feel a bit privileged, but at the same time a bit burdened. She knew all of Tony Stark's secrets, his life story, his struggles, his likes and dislikes, the truth, everything. And yet he still knew the basics about her. But that was okay because it wasn't about her, it was about Tony.

When he continued to wonder aloud about the competition and the expectations of people, she sat back a little. He really had been mulling over everything. His mind worked too fast but it appeared that Tony was winding down from his slight tirade. And in usual Tony fashion, he made a joke to brush away the serious topic. Pepper just sat where she was and let her blue eyes bat at him a few times, as she processed everything much slower and more thoughtfully than he did. Easing herself up, she glanced back at her PDA for a moment and knew tending to Tony was more important than her Inbox or Voicemail. She knew Tony was expecting some grand reassuring comment but hopefully what she had would be good enough for the man. Walking over to hi but leaving some space between them, she gave him a small smile. "You know people will cheer for almost anything." She started to say.

"I mean they'll cheer for higher taxes, lower taxes, gun control, whatever. So you know this isn't personal." Pepper told him. "But you're starting to show another side to you, change is hard for people to accept and understand and it's easier for them to just reject it or something." She shrugged a little. She hated seeing him like this but at least it showed he was still very much human like everyone else. Maybe more human than most people knew. "People see you as Iron Man, as you said, you and suit are one right? Well Iron Man does good and Tony Stark is starting to do good too, give people time." She said. "Maybe people just need to see a more human side of you...instead of the whole 'billionaire playboy...' whatever. thing you keep preaching about." She suggested. "Otherwise just brush it off."

That was easier said than done though. Pepper knew he would man up and figure something out. He always did. Hopefully he would figure something out and not dwell too much on the guy's statements. Anyone who believed Tony was superficial was moronic. He was changing, he wasn't sleeping around anymore, he was working hard and Pepper was proud of him. She made her way back over to the table and bent down and picked up her phone and saw the countless incoming messages. Sighing, she quickly grabbed her coffee and finished it rather quickly. "Sometimes I wish people could see you the way I do..." She muttered as she tossed her empty cup in the trash and contemplated going out to get another. Hopefully in a few hours Tony will have forgotten about the taunting.

"I'm going to go out real quick. I didn't get anything to eat and I need more coffee to get through the morning." Pepper just said and grabbed her purse and then quickly snagged her PDA and cell phone before he could get close to it. Heading out, she shut the door behind her and headed out back to the coffee shop she frequented. As she walked along, she saw more e mails from various tv stations asking for a statement but Pepper ignored them for the time being and just got another coffee for herself, as well as two bear claws for them to eat. Knowing Tony, he had neglected to feed himself and would need something to eat. Finally heading back to his apartment, she ended up catching the eye of some blond guy adorning a nice brown leather jacket, flash a smile at her. He's cute. Was the closest she had gotten to the opposite sex in any sort of interaction.

Getting back, she closed the door behind her and handed him one of the bear claws. "Eat something please." Pepper instructed and headed back to the couch and sat down. She then went to fiddling with her PDA, tending to emails that we already piling up.

- - -

Steve Rogers

While he hadn't seen the young agent in battle, he had read about her and had heard some frightening stories about her skills in combat. To be honest, he was interested in seeing her skills in person, though a lot of people would say the same about him. The last thing he wanted to be was a dog who did tricks when commanded. His duty wasn't anything like that, even if people from his day might think he was in regards to selling those bonds for the war. That had purpose. Steve wasn't one to show off, there was more important things to remember and take into consideration. He fought for peace and justice, some may consider it cheesy and underrated but it was what kept him going. Having been a victim of bullying, he made it his personal mission to never let anyone feel the same dark lonely burden he had felt.

And back then he did have a friend to rely on. That friend would forever reside in his heart and keep him good and untainted. As Natasha made her way further into the gym, he straightened up his posture and looked down at her, waiting for an answer. He was sure she was wanting to know whether or not he would bite the bait that had been cast out in such open waters. He knew he would accept, he knew it. Even so, there was some shy hesitance in going all in. He had to trust SHIELD. That was a hard thing to do but over tie Steve did learn to trust Fury and the others. And Agent Coulson was an interesting guy whenever they saw each other in the halls, the man would give a great patriotic salute to the super solider. At first, the blue eyed bulky boy wasn't sure how to respond. After all, it didn't seem like Agent Coulson was a decorated military official. But soon it hit that the man was a fan of his.

It was very flattering to Steve and just something he got used to. It was baby steps like that, which showed some hope for the man trapped in ice for too long. He felt the woman's eyes on him as her words filled his awaiting ears. Indeed she did ask whether or not he would take on the case. He knew little about it, but what he was aware of, was unsettling. He would only be told more if and when he did agree to work alongside Agent Romanoff. It was nothing against her or the mission, or even SHIELD itself. There were personal hurdles he had to get over on his own. Would he ever be really ready though? Was this going to help the shy turtle become the man he once was so long ago? A surge of more discomfort began to churn within him. But there were small hints of excitement, and it was those flickers of hope which would help him push himself. It seemed like Agent Romanoff was certain he should take the case.

That alone was comfort he welcomed. Steve knew answers would be needed quicker and he had some time to think about it. And it was about time he spoke up and did his duty as an American solider and hero. Breaking the silence, he gave a small nod as his lips turned upward into a small smile. "I will accept." He said with some thought. It wasn't easy to get back out in the world but he would try and he was glad he would have someone by his side during the process. "And I will make sure the mission is carried out and completed accordingly." Steve added with a more reassuring tone. A bit a of a weight had been lifted from the man's shoulders when he finally did accept the mission. He had a feeling the same could likely be said for a few other people, and for that he felt a bit bad. "I'm sorry that it took me a while to decide."

Glancing to his punching bag, he decided he could leave it unattended and leave with Natasha so they could both be briefed in regards to the details of said undercover mission. The pair headed out of the large room and headed to where Fury would be waiting to talk to them and then send them off soon enough. Steve glanced to Natasha was they walked along. He wasn't sure what the mission would entail but the mysterious veil would soon be lifted. When they entered the small room with a few computer monitors and two chair, he took a seat and Fury entered the room from another door. "I'm glad you two have agreed." He said, his eye looking to both of the skilled agents before him. "I will be sending you both into London. There, it seems unrest is gathering. Intel suggests that a group is planning an attack on the US. This group gathers recruits and uses them..."

A pause and the man continued. "Some are used as experiments, while others are used as spies and such." Fury said. "I want you both to pose as a newlywed couple moving into the area of unrest. Gather as much information as possible but do not engage in any combat unless absolutely necessary. You will both report to me and try to gain the group's trust if possible. It's suggested that they call themselves Furious and have control over a large amount of biochemical weapons and bomb equipment." Fury told them and pointed to the computers where images of black clad people were gathering in the streets of London. Then there was a map and a supposed outlined area of their so called territory.

"Any questions?" Fury asked them. Steve looked to Natasha and was silent for a moment. He did have a few but he knew it would be better to address them on the plane for instance. "I'm fine, sir." Steve said firmly and swallowed. A new threat was now leering at him and he would get the job done.

[bumbledbee]

Tony Stark

Tony stood there, amazingly quiet the whole time she gently, laid it on him and the whole time a smile continued to grow on his face. She was right of course, why should he care what one man said about him. His smile lifted the corner of his lips, such the fidgety type that he was he picked up the tool he held earlier and played with it in his hands as he lowered his head a little. Before being taken prisoner, he lived in a world that revolved around him. He never cared his actions had caused so much disservice to his father's once proud name. He didn't care he had slept with so many women he couldn't keep track of them anymore. He was a name, Stark Industries, but not once since he took over for his father had he lifted a finger to run that company. Truly, the one that had always cared and ran that company was standing right in front of him.

In his mind he tried to show her how important she was to him, that he respected her, appreciated her. Without her there wasn't much meaning in anything he did without her constant support and care. But being who he was, there was no doubt in his mind he has made her feel like he was just part of her job. He's taken her for granted, shrouded her with his insecurities and sarcastic temper. It was only recently he had begun remembering her birthday. He was selfish, though she accepted that about him. She wasn't the one who slipped out the next morning, blogging how she had spent the night with a billionaire. She was the woman who handled and put up with every one of his personality disorders. One of the only two who could see past this, person he had created and saw more. Even more then he himself saw. Between her and Rhodey, they were the only truth in his existence, until he had become Iron Man.

And he tried so hard to actually share his feelings, like now, it was close to utter sincerity then he could have ever been in the past. He’s even attempted to tell her how he feels about her, how he really felt. But it was just hard to take him seriously, especially every time you tried speaking from the heart and you were so used to being something else. An image, a persona. Just like now, he wanted to tell you something as simple as ‘thank you’. But in his brain raced so many thoughts and not all of them pertained to his feelings. At that very moment he was calculating how to reinforce the insulation of his underwater piping for his clean energy source. Nathan Cowl was still buzzing his slander and he was trying to figure out how to fight back. Those people that cheered, possible upgrades to his Iron Man suit. And by the time he focused on a ‘thank you’, she was heading out the door.

His lower lip dropped open a second before closed it and walked after her to the door, “Pick up something Italian will you this time? I've seemed to grow an intolerance to Japanese.” as she was slipping out. After the door closed, his shoulders slumped again and frustrated, gave the tool in his hand a good toss across the room. Hands coming up to rest on his hips he stared at the door for a moment then shook his head, “Thank you, Ms. Potts.”

Turning back around just in time to hear Jarvis, “Sir, simulation complete. Currently, we are still looking at a total success rate of 98%. My apologies.”

Walking back over to the desk he looked at the screen a moment, thinking, then began sweeping his hands across them, tossing more data in the bin then bringing up new. “Jarvis, try these materials. If it doesn’t work this time... let’s call it a day, shall we?” He finished applying the new alloy to the wire covering and set.

“Very good, Sir. I’ll run another simulation and have the results, estimated time of completion, ten minutes,” he responded.

“Make it twenty minutes, Jarvis. And have you found anything on our buddy, Cowl?” he asked, walking across the room towards his closet, swinging the doors open to reveal his wardrobe.

“Yes, Sir. As you would say, he appears to be a boy scout. His accomplishments in...”

Tony cut him off, “Dig deeper, something about him makes me want to punch him in the nose. Maybe our old pales at S.H.I.E.L.D. can give us a little insight?”

“Very well, Sir. Hacking into S.H.I.E.L.D.’s database will take some time, however.” Pulling out one his nice suits, he crossed the room again and laid it across his bed, “I’ll be holding a press conference soon, Jarvis,” he said turning to look at the monitors as if talking to him personally. “Of course, Sir. I’ll optimize my anti-security protocols.”

“Thank you, Jarvis,” he said so much more easily then he could to another human being. He walked back over to his coffee, picked it up and took a drink which was now cooler then it had been previously. Setting it down he went to his dresser and absently grabbed a handful of ties and laid them over on top of his suit and began watching the door. That didn’t last long as he went back over to his desk and began examining the damage his over tinkering had done to his glove. He’d glance over his shoulder at the door and when she finally walked back in he pretended to be completely focused on his glove.

She handed him the bear claw and he observed it carefully, nose wrinkling slightly, “This doesn’t look Italian.” Even though a second after he took a bite from it and twirled around in his chair to look at her. His left jaw was packed as he chewed, it was true he hadn’t remembered the last time he had eaten anything. Obviously he had but he just couldn’t remember, it wasn’t important. Giving her a chance to sit back down, he swallowed and looked at her. Suddenly he realized she could see if she wanted to the hacking attempt Jarvis was making so he blurted as he stood up and closed the window with a wave of his hand. “I want to hold a press conference, this afternoon as soon as possible.”

~~~~~

Natasha Romanoff

Natasha knew what it was like to feel out of place in a brand new world. In Russia she had been orphaned at very young age then found herself, as well as other girls her age, in a program that altered and manipulated everything she was. Black Widow was merely a name people used to describe the crimson haired fatale, in truth, it was a covert operation to train highly skilled spies and assassins for a Russian intelligence group called Red Room. She was breed for a terrible but glorious purpose, most of her memories and beliefs had been implanted. Her final missions for Red Room ended in failure, such failure of any kind were not tolerated. If not for Fury and the agent codenamed, Hawkeye, she’d either be dead right now or still hiding. Death should have been the only option, Fury’s superiors wanted her eliminated but he had seen something in her that even she hadn’t. He had spared her life, she owed him everything and her loyalty for S.H.I.E.L.D. has become stronger then any false belief they could have imposed on her.

But her past often came back to haunt her, word of her missions had spread through S.H.I.E.L.D. like wildfire and it was hard to gain trust. Though, for Steve, not seeming the type to believe rumors, he followed orders like a good soldier but he had his own morality. Trust was a new concept for her which she was still getting used to, hopefully there could be some trust built between them on this mission. Even if there were more qualified agents that she knew could perform the task flawlessly, maybe a little flaw would end up somehow being a good thing. His honesty and compassion would make him sincere enough for what Fury had for them to do.

When he finally confirmed his acceptance she gave him a smile, “I’m glad to hear that, Captain. It’s going to be a pleasure working with you.” Turning to walk with him to Fury’s office, she remained silent, even as they reached the office and were inside. “Hello, Sir,” she would say to Fury with a small smile then stand beside Steve with her back straight and her hands around her back with her fingers wrapped together. As Fury mentions their cover, she glances up at the old war hero just so she could see how that effected him. Fighting wars would be a lot different then playing honeymoon and trying to infiltrate a top secret organization causing threat to national security. A moment of eye contact between them, she gave Steve a reassuring smile then she looked back to Fury.

All the questions she had were for Steve later, for now she knew her objective and she knew he’d want them to leave as soon as possible. “No questions, Sir,” she responded then waited to be dismissed. After they were both out of Fury’s office she would look up at Steve, walking beside him. “This probably wasn’t the type of mission you had in mind... but I think you’ll do fine. Just stay close to me and when you’re in doubt, just follow my lead,” she was sure he had to have by now took full understanding of what this mission was going to demand from their appearances in public. She hoped he was up for it, but she would be there to help him along.

“We should probably leave as soon as possible. Take a civilian flight to London. I’ll make sure S.H.I.E.L.D. makes all our necessary accommodations before our arrival. Do you have any questions? Any concerns?” she asked him, sincerely curious as to how he was feeling right now and trying to judge the best way to get him into this new role smoothly.

[Genkai]

Pepper Potts

Tony Stark wasn't a gifted conversationalist.

Pepper understood that.

She also understood that speaking personally from the heart wasn't something he often did, therefore his experience in that department was lacking. Maybe it had something to do with his strained relationship with his father or that he never really had a serious meaningful relationship with anyone, to her knowledge. Whatever had caused Tony to steer away from speaking up about certain subjects, Pepper accepted it. Not everyone was good with words. Nor was everyone a genius with a wealthy father and a name to live up to. Her boss's burdens weren't his to bear alone though, and she had shouldered most of his company's duties as well as dealing with Tony's personality. If someone deserved a Nobel Peace Prize, she would be a prime candidate for working behind the scenes while Tony soaked up the limelight provided.

Tony seemed to enjoy the attention though. Maybe it made up for certain hallow areas in his life. Pepper wasn't fond of the attention, that was for sure. She was very much content standing in the background and only coming out when necessary. Attending parties and events and meetings in place of Tony was fine with her, she didn't complain nearly as much as some might think. Her job was important to her and she wasn't about to complain because she could be elsewhere at the moment, not in a shining city of magical lights. Pepper Potts knew that her demanding job had perks, perks of travel and whatnot. But her job wasn't just a job per say. She and Tony were closer than just colleagues. Things weren't simple between them, that was for sure. And that's another reason why she couldn't complain: Tony was her friend and she cared about him.

And sometimes when you cared about someone, you made sacrifices. And part of her sacrifice was her social life and part of her sanity because let's face it, Pepper was sure she wouldn't be changing jobs anytime soon. And not changing jobs meant that she would be with Tony for likely another ten or fifteen years. Whoever died first. And the thought of her being left alone when Tony didn't come back from saving the world really frightened her. Not only would she be mourning, she would be picking up the entirety of his company or at least until someone took it over. But it was pretty much certain she would be given official control if someone happened to Tony Stark. There was no way she'd also become the new Iron Man, no amount of money could ever convince her to do what he did. Maybe Tony being a bit insane helped him put on a suit and privatize world peace, and maybe she was a bit insane as well, but she didn't have a pressing need to redeem herself like he did.

Hopefully being Iron Man made him happy because it drove Pepper nuts. Always constantly worrying and hearing him tinker with things and being left alone at the end of the day. He was doing good though, and in that sense, his actions spoke louder than words. He wanted to protect people and to right the wrongs that had been committed. But when it came to saying how he felt, he was rather unarmed in a sense. And when it came to telling people such as his assistant or his only real friend how he felt, actions did not speak louder than words. Pepper did get access to his funds without real question and she got to travel and live practically however she wished. And yet she always kept things simple and moderate. Fancy things didn't interest her, even though she did have a weakness for shiny things. So she would much rather hear some kind of kind word rather than get an allowance to buy a new dress or pair of shoes. But Tony wasn't really one for opening up and Pepper had in time, learned to read between the lines and gestures.

So as she glanced up from her small handheld device, she caught Tony staring at her though she had notice his quick flick of the wrist, she was sure he glad for the snack even if it wasn't much. He seemed to be hiding something, but then he almost always was. She learned just not to pry because they were both stubborn and wouldn't get anywhere. "You want pasta this early?" She made a disgusted face. Maybe the carbs would help him, sighing she was almost tempted to go out again and fetch him something more to eat but he then expressed interest in having a press conference. "Good, I can't tell you how many people want to hear from you now...more than anyway usual anyway." She muttered as she went back to her work. Scheduling press conferences was something Pepper could easily do in her sleep at this point. "So what's the topic of the gathering?" Pepper asked Tony as she drank some coffee. "Mr. Cowl's attack I assume." She just shrugged, figuring she had answered her own question.

Knowing she'd find out soon enough, she just finished a mass e mail and sent it off to all of the news stations.

- - -

Steve Rogers

So it begins...

The mission was certainly a bit out of left field. And as Natasha had presumed, Steve wondered why he had been picked when others would be more suited candidates to be discrete and go undercover. A man such as himself wasn't easy to look past, after all. Steve wasn't subtle nor was he delicate and knowledgeable when it came to women, let alone being married to one. And then on top of that tall order, his wife to be in this game of pretend was none other than Natasha Romanoff herself which only made the man even more uncertain. But after the briefing, he couldn't turn around and change his mind. No, he couldn't. Nor would he. Steve Rogers was a man of his word and he said he take the mission and complete it. And so that would be done. The challenge would be to just relax and get into some kind of character but it wouldn't be impossible.

After all, in his long lifetime, the impossible had been disproven more than once.

Natasha seemed accommodating and up for taking the lead in the mission. While he had no reason to argue with her or to take the reins himself, he thought it would be more likely for the male to be the outgoing one when it came time to get into character. He would try to remind himself of that. Sometimes Natasha could come off strong but her heart was generally in a good place so he didn't mind too much. It had been a while since he had gone out and done something for the good of the world and he was ready. He knew in his heart, he could find out about whatever secrets were floating around London. Hopefully the rest would just fall into their order. "I think I'm fine." Steve found himself just saying as he trusted SHIELD to take care of everything. As they headed out, they were given files with more information. Luckily for the broad shoulder male, his identity had been picked out for him.

And of course said details were to be memorized by the time he set foot in London.

Taking said folder he looked through the information. His alias for the mission was Jake Nathan. He was from a rural place in Kansas called Benton. There he lived with his family working on a farm until he went off to college in New York City. He majored in the study of agriculture and botany. They were areas very far out of his range but it seemed there was also summaries on various plants, probably to keep Steve busy while flying over to London. He had apparently met his current new wife while attending college. They had been together ever since and picked London to start a new life. Easy to believe. And that's what everyone said right? Steve looked up from the documents to see it was time to go. Hurrying along, he headed back to his own room and packed very little, as he was sure most of his clothes and items would need to be purchased while in the town undercover. A lot had to go into planning such a mission so he would try to be as flexible as possible.

Before he exited his room to find Natasha, his shield caught his eye. Should I? He wondered. Without it, he wouldn't feel right at all. But if he brought it with him, it would be a dead giveaway as to his true identity. Steve just stood there feeling quite conflicted. Bring it or leave it? He didn't need the shield to really fight anyone. If he could, he was capable of using guns or knives. He was well versed in hand to hand fighting too but he just felt a bit naked without his shield. Even so he inched his way out of his room without, knowing how well he could improvise should he need to fight. And supposedly the threat to interact wasn't around so he tried to ease his mind as he headed down the polished halls of the SHIELD HQ with his folder and duffel bag in hand.

Upon finding Natasha, they were taken to the airport and given some credit cards, keys to their townhouse, rings, and passports. Steve glanced at Natasha as he slowly slipped the gold band around his ring finger. It seemed just the motion of putting it on made him nervous. He pushed that aside and boarded the plane with her, carrying her luggage like a gentleman. Once they were on, he went through his files a few times. Maybe if he kept reading, he would feel more prepared and not like a fish out of water. The flight itself wasn't terrible and he kept to himself for the most part though he should have at least tried being more open around Natasha as practice or something. Steve had to believe in himself and the mission and hopefully this wouldn't be too tricky for either of them when it came to act. As the plane landed, Steve glanced out the window and swallowed. This was it, he was now Jake Nathan, Jake Nathan Jake Nathan. "Ready?" He smiled to Natasha as he got up and offered a hand.

[bumbledbee]

Tony Stark

Taking another bite of his bear claw he looked at Pepper a while longer, the eccentric man actually believed sometimes if he could stare at her hard enough that maybe she could read what he was thinking. The thing was, unless it came to his level of genius, none of the things that came from his mouth were really meaningful. Often times he just blurted blunt thoughts that were the first thing that popped up when asked a question. Things he had heard spoken about himself he had a way of twisting it around and making them seem charming, to most people. To other people, all he had to do was mention the size of his bank account and they would laugh at every joke even if they were about them. The confidence he felt was sincere, he knew he was handsome, intelligent and one of the wealthiest men in the world. He had privilege from his name, he could buy his way out of almost any bad situation. They were like sheeple around him, and he won’t deny that his ego enjoys the attention. But it was the good attention he wanted now.

His ego was demanding to be acknowledged for his good deeds, his life that he risked to keep people... the world safe. He risked backlash on his company when he went up against Stane, revealing his dirty dealings while he was head of Stark Industries. More risk from his sudden change of heart in industry, refusing to give the military his Iron Man suit. Then Ivan Vanko, claiming his father, Howard Stark had stolen his reactor technology. He’s suffered public backlash so many times but it wasn’t the same when most of what that monkey boy said was true.

Iron Man was the perfect role model for children, he was something acceptable for young teenage girl to swoon over. It would have been easier if Cowl had just been holding a gun at the crowd during his speech. Iron Man rushes in, performs a humiliating defeat on national television and saves the day. But that was just another point marker for the suit, not Tony. All this had flashed through his mind rather quickly while he stood there making the stare he gave her not long at all. He was now considering her question, sipped his coffee as e began to pace back and forth because he had been still for far too long. Tilting his head as some ideas began bubbling to the surface of his brain. “Not just Cowl, Ms. Potts. I want the people to meet me... I want to introduce them to the new Tony Stark. To a man of... astounding integrity and virtuous moral value. I want it to be open to the public. I want questions from the people, not just those media hounds.”

He stopped pacing and turned, looking at her, “And I need you standing right there beside me, not off in the distance. I need you right there.” He knew she hated being in front of the camera, especially when he was the one speaking at the conference but she was important in this. Stepping towards her, giving her that boyish look and tone, “My rock, my friend. For whom I surely would have perished somehow by methods of my own design... I need you to support me, to trust me. Will you do that for me?” He batted his eyes with a slip of a grin on his face.

Just then Jarvis’ voice sounded, “Sorry to interrupt you, but that information you wanted on Nathan Cowl from the S.H.I.E.L.D. database has been retrieved successfully. Shall I give it to you now, Sir?”

Tony cringed quite obviously, then smiled as he was caught, held up a finger to Pepper then turned around towards the monitors, “No... Jarvis. I’ll take a look at those later.” Jarvis responds, “Very well, Sir. I’ll put the files in a secured location on your hard drive. By the way, Sir, simulation is now at 42% completion. “Thank you, Jarvis,” he replies some what impatiently then quickly walks toward his bed and grabs the ties he had laid out and shows them to her. “Which one do you think? The burgundy with grey stripes or something solid?”

~~~~~

Natasha Romanoff

Natasha would simply nod, “Then I’ll be seeing you later when we are ready to leave, Captain,” giving him one last smile before turning down a hall towards her own room. Of course, she would have to stop addressing him as that which wouldn’t be hard once she learned his alias. She packed up several things, none of which were lethal, just some bare women’s essentials and clothing she could pack into one suitcase. And as she promised, she met him later as they were getting ready to leave, took her folder and maybe spared him a few brief glances and the occasional smile. She began reading her cover story and placing it to memory. By the time they were actually on the plane she was reciting everything by memory without the use of the documents.

Her name was now Natalie Nathan, formally Natalie Roseland. She met her new husband at college, he was studying botany and agriculture while she was studying solar power energy. The two became better acquainted during a joint project effort and quickly fell in love. Tiring of the hustle of big city life, they chose to relocate and build a new life together in a far off new surrounding. The location they both agreed upon being London. Several times during the plane ride she’d look over at Steve, she had seen how he reacted when they gave him the fake wedding ring, which she had still neglected to put hers on. Which was a thankful thought as she reached into her pocket and finally slipped the golden band over her slender finger.

She gazed down at it a moment, this wasn’t the first time she had posed as a man’s wife before. In fact she had done so several times during her career. It always made her realize that she probably would never in her life wear a real one. Though she remained undecided if that was a good or bad thing. Marriage required you to be open and honest, her whole existence has been laced with lies and deception. To have that burden of complete and total honesty made her feel exposed and uncomfortable. Sighing softly she leaned er head back in the seat and remained quiet for some time.

Even in her silence she could sense his tension, his nerves. This wasn’t the kind of assignment a man like him was used to and she would have said something but she thought it would either do no good or just somehow make him more nervous. She was starting to believe he had realized the full extent of the mission. On top of uncovering the shady dealings of this organization, he was also going to have to treat her like the woman he loves. He’s was going to have to embrace her, hold her hand, dance with her and more then likely on occasion, kiss her just to keep up public appearance. And for a moment as she thought about it, she had to stop herself from chuckling and keep in mind this was suppose to be professional. But really, he was a sweet guy along with being this morally sound, honor driven soldier. He even carried her suitcases for her which was unnecessary but quite flattering.

And it was hard still not to show humor as the plane landed and she saw quite clearly how hard he swallowed. Still, she was quiet, almost. As he stood, smiled at her and offered her his hand, she returned with her own smile. The first teeth baring smile he ad probably ever seen from her. It was time to get into character, she took his hand and pulled herself up and nodded her head to his question. But before walking towards the unloading stairway she leaned up and planted a quick, pop kiss on his lips, “This is going to be so exciting,” she gushed before stepping forward. “Don’t forget my overhead bag, honey?” she looked at him over her shoulder as she began being pushed forward by the crowd ready to exit the plane after a long flight.

[Genkai]

Pepper Potts

Pepper was thinking about heading out soon to attend to some other errands her job entailed but paused when Tony said he wouldn't just be covering the whole recent issue which made her a little worried. She generally liked being kept in the loop when it came to Tony Stark's announcements but she knew he wouldn't divulge any information unless he wanted to and for now all the woman could do was hope he wasn't going to be saying something or deciding something that would give her even more work to fiddle around with. "Alright..." She said slowly as he went on to talk about introducing himself and wanting the press conference open to the public. That only made her even more nervous. "I don't think that's a good idea." The last thing she thought would help would be swarms of people. If that was the case, a bigger venue might be necessary so she started making a reservation with her PDA and sending out new requests.

Clearly what Tony Stark wanted, he got.

But Pepper could always say 'no' when it really mattered. But someday she knew she might not be able to, for whatever reason. Just when she thought she could head off, he added yet another fantastic twist to his request. Pepper stood up and he then said he wanted her with him which caused her to freeze for a moment. "Oh...I...I don't really think that is a good idea either..." The more he was talking the more uneasy she was getting. Pepper wanted to ask more questions but JARVIS spoke up and she grabbed her things, if there was one thing to get Pepper moving, it was nervousness for her boss and his mouth which could get them into a lot of trouble. When the homemade interface began to tell Tony about the information gathered. Before she could yell at him he silenced her. Frowning, her day had now successfully given her a migraine. She hadn't one so quick in a while. "I might just strangle you with this." Pepper warned as she pointed to the one he picked out.

"But the stripes work fine." She said, her voice laced with vivid annoyance. "Stop hacking other people, especially SHIELD, leave Cowl alone and be the better person." If she had gotten her chance to unleash her fury sooner, she would have. And it would have been what she preferred but she had to go now. Fashion couldn't deter her for long it seemed. "Please just think before you do anything. I know you can do it." Pepper smiled and headed for the door and paused. "For the record, you know by now that I do support and trust you." She told Tony. "I'm kind of hurt you have to ask for it after all this time," She headed out the door and then paused. "I'll send you the information for the conference along with some lunch so you can get something to eat." Pepper added and just headed out. While Tony stayed back and toyed around with his things, she had work to do and though leaving him alone was never a good notion, she had to.

After all, he was an adult whether he wanted to admit it or not at times was another story, and he knew what choices were good and which were bad. So she didn't feel like she had to look over his shoulder the whole time. She had other things to do and she was sure he didn't want her to act too motherly. So Pepper headed back out to her car and finished her bear claw in the process and hastily licked her fingers and drove off. On the way, she moved the conference to a bigger location. She checked Twitter and Facebook, people were already talking about what Tony Stark had to say now. Just the idea that she would need to be there too made her really nervous. He knew she didn't like being in front of large audiences, and being next to Tony made her even more uncomfortable in that kind of posed situation. Did it really matter if she was there or not?

It's not like anyone really cared what she was doing anyway.

No one would really notice her in that kind of situation but she was still uneasy about it. Pushing that aside, she also ordered some pasta to be delivered to Tony's in about and hour, as the press conference would be in two hours. He would have enough time to eat and get ready. In the meantime, the girl caught up on some papers regarding plans for zoning in other areas for possible future Stark Towers, granted the one they were working on would take off with flying colors. As Pepper was sitting in her car, finishing off her fourth or fifth cup of coffee, a nervous habit sadly only made more nerves, she wondered what it was like to have a normal life with a normal job and a normal group of friends. Groaning, she rested her head back and checked the time. It was getting to the point where she had to go and make sure Tony was alright.

Heading off to the new location at AMA New York Conference Center which was located in the middle of Times Square, she checked herself. She still looked presentable. It was about noon, hopefully Tony had gotten something to eat, she decided she would just get something after the meeting. Parking, she was about fifteen minutes early which was a bit late for her actually. There was already a large group waiting to get inside. Pepper took some pain killers, a drink of water and headed inside the back way. As she walked along, she checked her phone and just slipped it back in her purse. Finding a place to sit down, she hoped Tony was around someplace and wouldn't be making any grand entrances. It seemed something had gotten under his skin and she knew it was deeper than whatever the guy had said about him on tv but she knew it would blow over soon enough. He'd see things were fine.

- - -

Steve Rogers

Natasha took his hand and he helped her up. It was a bit unnecessary but it was the nice thing to do. And it was something he didn't really have to think about doing, being a gentleman came more naturally to him which could be something to help him through the rocky transition of getting into a new identity. He was aware that people, Natasha included, were concerned about him executing the mission. Even he was concerned but knowing that people were uneasy wasn't helping him at all. Steve was very much determined to succeed. It wasn't like the mission was that hard, it was just something he wasn't well versed in handling. Battles and planning were areas in which Steve could shine but it wasn't all he was good at right? He wasn't just a fighting machine to use. He was a person after all. He didn't really like being treated with kid-gloves or anything like that.

As Steve was being mindful of the other passengers who were trying to get their own things, he glanced to Natasha and kissed him quickly before chirping about how things were going to be exciting. He was sure she was in character but a plea could also be given that she was also talking about the mission they were now set to handle. He just smiled to her and let her go out first. She then mentioned her bag and he nodded. "Of course sweetheart." He said a bit too automatically. While he knew he would have to kiss her, show various public displays of affection, the realization had just hit that he hadn't kissed anyone since Peggy. He couldn't let that show on his features because whenever he thought back to her and him, it made him feel so sad and guilty. He had missed such a chance because of work.

A flicker of sadness flashed over his face but he shook it off.

Hopefully with Natasha charging along, she didn't notice. All Steve could do was replace his expression with an excited one, grab her bag and his and head off behind her. "Coming, coming." Steve called after her as he walked along the passageway from the plane to the real terminal itself. He pushed his thoughts back on the mission itself, his mind running through the information he had been reading only an hour or so ago. He was Jake Nathan and he was with his lovely new wife, Natalie. And they were very passionate about nature and preserving life. Reaching Natasha in the gate, he glanced around. "I'm so glad to be here, doing this with you." He said warmly. He continued to walk with her as he glanced at his phone which was within reach. So far there wasn't anything from Fury yet so Steve decided it was best to find their home and settle in.

Maybe they could wander a bit.

"I'll grab us a taxi." Steve suggested as they headed out toward the exit. It was a nice day though he wasn't one to best judge London weather. While he got a taxi, his eye couldn't help but catch the eye of some other obvious couples. Some were very affectionate while others weren't. It was likely the more close he and Agent Romanoff were, the less attention they would draw to any unfavorable groups. That was still easier said than done, but again, not impossible. Getting a taxi, he motioned Natasha over to him. Once he got their things in the back, he took out his keys and opened the door for Natasha before getting in the car himself and telling the driver the address of where they wanted to go. So far, things were going alright. Steve glanced out the window and slowly, though still a bit cautiously, rested his hand on her leg, while trying to push any thoughts of Peggy out of his head.

"It's really wonderful here." He said, though that was him being honest. The city was really a place to be in awe of. He knew if he kept thinking about Peggy, it wouldn't be fair to her, nor to his partner so he would do his best to stop thinking about her and focus on the present. The past was long gone, but to him it felt like just yesterday. "Do you know of any good places to eat near where we're staying?" Steve questioned the taxi driver. He was then told about a corner bistro which had great food and live music on the weekends. It sounded like a nice place for Steve and Natasha to check out. While they did have to scope out the area and nudge their way into the neighbors, slightly, it was best to get their feet wet slowly. Why not get something to eat in the process? It was about lunchtime, or a little after it. When they were parked in front of a large forest green colored townhouse, he paid and got out with Natasha. "Thank you sir." He smiled and got their luggage and headed inside.

It seemed SHIELD had gotten a nice place for them. The home was a silm two story townhouse. The first floor had a sitting room, closet, kitchen and half bathroom. The second floor had a study, bedroom, full bathroom and sun room. Steve took their things upstairs and into the bedroom. He paused slightly upon realizing he just might have to share a bed with the woman. His experience in that department was making him a bit flustered again. The mission was continuing to point out various smudges on his life. He didn't date, he didn't go out much, he didn't even kiss women. Steve felt like he was fifteen all over again, scrawny and too shy to do anything. And yet he had been making some progress with the mission already. Attempting to gather his confidence again, he headed downstairs to find out where Natasha was. "So do you want to go out or stay in for a bit?" He asked her as he looked around a bit.

[bumbledbee]

Tony Stark

As Pepper was leaving, he actually attempted to speak, explain himself somehow maybe but he just couldn’t get his mouth to form words. He was almost puppy like the way he followed after her to the door then stood there when she closed it behind her. Cowl had struck a nerve in him, that was true, but it wasn’t just Cowl that had caused this obvious doubt in Tony. It was Fury and his Iron Man fans who had really done the number on him. He wanted to tell her he was worried, he was doubting himself, that he needed reassurance. Instead he managed to annoy her again with his attempts of making himself feel better. He wanted to find something on Cowl that would make him look bad, and it was hard not to go over to the console and read what Jarvis had dug up on him. He knew if S.H.I.E.L.D. had something then this guy wasn’t the perfect image he was making everyone believe he was. But something made him stop, maybe she was right? Forget Cowl, there were a million guys like Cowl in the world and he could handle them. Nodding his head he began to undress and headed to the bathroom for a shower. Ten minutes later he was back out with a towel wrapped around his waist, paused by a moment of curiosity but managed to shrug it off.

After drying off he put on his suit, not his Iron Man suit but a the one expected from Tony Stark. And he struggled with the tie a moment, again wishing she was there but proved he could at least dress himself on his own. Though, just because he could didn’t mean he wanted to or had to enjoy it. Just then, Jarvis once again sounded, “Sir, I didn’t want to intrude on your shower, but the simulation has completed. Desired results have still yet to be met... though we have managed to bring up the success rate to 98.5%.”

Tony stops for a moment, momentarily disappointed but let’s it pass quickly, “That’s good enough for now, Jarvis. Shut down simulations for today... Also, Jarvis, hack into Ms. Potts’ PDA and find out where she’s planning to hold the conference.”

“I thought, Ms. Potts expressly forbid your hacking into her handheld devices, Sir?” Jarvis questions.

“I just want to know the location, Jarvis. Keep all the juicy secrets to yourself. And when you’re done with that, hack into the locations sound equipment. I want ‘Back in Black’ playing as my entrance theme,” Tony had begun with a sigh then perked up a bit as he continued.

“Very good, Sir. Is there anything else I can do for you?” Slipping on his watch, he stood there for a moment thinking then shook his head. “That’ll be all, Jarvis. Just wait for my signal then play my song.” Tony then grabs his own device and slips it in his pocket and proceeds to walk out the door, when he receives a knock upon it which makes him jerk his hand back from the handle. Puzzled, he looks through the peep hole and gazes upon a delivery man carrying take out. At first he wasn’t exactly sure what was going on but then a smile began to creep across his lips. “Thank you, Ms. Potts,” he said quietly before opening the door. He handed the man his tip but naturally refused when he tried handing the food over to Tony in return. Tony didn’t like people handing him things so instead he made the man come in and set the food down on the table before he was able to leave. When he opened it up he found his pasta which only made him smile again, walking into the kitchen he grabbed a fork and took the time to enjoy his brunch which made him really realize how hungry he had been. Glancing up at the clock he now had about forty-five minutes to get to the AMA and to further impress, Pepper he was determined to get there early. Or at least on time.

Taking the elevator down to the garage, which he bought several blocks of to house a small portion of his car collection. He chooses a red Lamborghini, lifts the door and slides into the driver’s seat. Starting the engine he skids tires before bolting from the underground garage and moving out into the streets of New York where he finds himself caught quickly in a traffic jam. Tapping fingers on the steering wheel waiting some time, he looks down at the clock on the radio, it was ten minutes until the meeting. He was going to be late. He popped his palm against the steering wheel then happened to look over at the sidewalk. There stood a little boy and his mother, the boy was wearing a toy Iron Man helmet and gloves and he was just staring at Tony through the open window of his car. Feeling that seldom rush of compassion, Tony smiles and gives him a wave only to have the boy raise his glove and pretend to shoot him. Tony pouts, such a trivial thing but the spoiled side of him taking it as another blow to his ego.

Finally the traffic moves, ironically enough the cause was Tony’s own press conference. Pulling up to the building he stares helplessly at the clock, thirty-seven minutes late. With a sigh he gets out and arms the alarm on his car before sneaking off to the back entrance. The world was his stage now, stepping through the halls he was greeted by some there to organize the event. Most relieved and others voicing their concerns he wasn’t going to make it. Soon he found himself lead towards the ‘stage’, he could see the podium from where he stood and hear the sound of restless tension from the crowd. “Have you prepared a speech, Mr. Stark?” the leading man asked, carrying a clipboard. Tony stands there a moment then shrugs his shoulders, bobs his head, “No. Thought I’d just go out there and wing it.” Smiling at the now nervous man he slips his hand into his pocket and presses one of the buttons on his device. Seconds later the chattering crowd is shadowed by AC/DC and their song ‘Back in Black’.

Giving the music time to sink in, he plasters a huge smile on his lips and strides out, instantly enjoying the reaction of cheers from the average citizens he requested to attend. He pauses and blows a few kisses before taking a few bows then takes a jogging dart up to the podium. His eyes take a quick scan of the audience, the one person he was looking for was Pepper, hoping not to see that look on her face.

Letting the song play almost half way through he then presses the button again to end it and then taps each microphone set out before him. “First off, I’d like to thank my fans for attending. Of course, if you’re fans of Iron Man...,” just the name sends another roaring cheer from the crowd in the back while the reporters in the front sit indifferently. Tony is quiet during this brief moment until the cheers die down, “... then you must be fans of Tony Stark.” This causes a rapid decline of cheering which settle into low rumbles of chatter. “But obviously, that’s not the case. And I don’t blame you. A few years ago, I wasn’t a fan of Tony Stark. I’ve done things in my life that even I’m not proud of. As fun as they might have been,” he snickers at the last line but holds his hands up to the growing chatter from the reporters. “A man can tell you he’s changed, it’s easy to say. I can tell you everything you want to hear, but we all know that’s not who I am. Iron Man has proven himself time and again he’s someone the people can count on, people can trust him.” Tony grows quiet again, he was losing his grip on the words he wanted to say and once again he looked out into the crowd for her. And when he found her he tried desperately to lock eyes with her.

“I don’t know what to say, when people like Nathan Cowl attack my personal character. I could be the old Tony and stand up here and play jabs back and forth. Of course, I’d win because Mr. Cowl lacks my charm and charisma and clearly he‘s threatened by me in every way. Which I can‘t blame him,” the statement manages to gain some chuckles from the crowd in the back. “I can’t tell you who Tony Stark is now, or that he’s different from the man you’ve always known. But he is trying. And right now, there’s one person out there that knows that better then anyone. She’s not very happy with me right now, but she’s honest and I’d like her to come up here now if she would? Ms. Virginia Potts, Pepper, please?” he asks, perhaps to her horror.

~~~~~

Natasha Romanoff

Underneath that cold exterior was a woman with deep buried emotions, she herself had many experiences where she had to tell a man she loved them even though that wasn’t the case. The closest person she actually did develop feelings for she betrayed in an instant, he now worked freelance for S.H.I.E.L.D. and everyone called him by his codename, Hawkeye. She had used him, back when she was still an agent for the Russians. Dragged him in on her mission and left him to take the fall after feeding him with lines and false truths. When S.H.I.E.L.D. had tracked her down, they had sent Clint to take her down, but he didn’t. She battled him anyway but he refused to fight back, refused to take her life when he had every reason to. It was him who had put the doubts in her mind about who she was, no matter what she said, it wasn’t just Fury who had given her a second chance. Clint Barton had changed her life, S.H.I.E.L.D. gave her a new one and she owed them both everything.

But those weren’t the things Natasha would reveal to anyone, for one she had many enemies who would be very interested to know she had feelings, real feelings for someone they could exploit. The other reason, how could she act on those feelings after what she had done to him? There was no way that would be fair. She still worked at times with Hawkeye, trusted him completely with her life. But she as forced herself to settle into a professional relationship, bordering thinly on friendship.

She knew the vague details of Steve’s past but never pried on his personal history. There had been some talk about a woman, a woman named Peggy he would call her name when he was first waking from his long sleep. But that wasn’t her business, what was her business was their current mission which she planned on confronting with perfection down to every little detail. Jake was her husband, they were newlyweds and in this stage of marriage, they were at their happiest. Affectionate and carefree which she could play extremely well. Natasha respected Steve on his abilities as a soldier, she respected him as a person. But the mission came before all, there would be plenty of time later to apologize for any emotional discomforts though if she caught notice of any now she’d have a pep talk waiting for when they were alone. She had every intention of being gentle, but there was no room for errors. Whether Steve knew it, he was an agent now and she would treat him like one.

Back in character she paused to let him catch up as they were exiting the plane and when he haled the taxi she actually slipped a disposable camera from her bag and as he reached to open the door for her she called to him, “Smile, honey,” before snapping a surprise picture. Beaming a smile she slid into the taxi and waited for him to put their bags in the trunk and entered. While in the taxi she continued to snap pictures, “This place is gorgeous,” she added when he mentioned how wonderful it was. She was still snapping pictures even as she placed her hand over his when he rested it on her leg. There was no second thinking for her, she was fluid in her mannerism towards him as her new husband. Years of practice compared to a gentleman from a much different life and world for that matter in so many senses.

The reason she was taking those pictures was to help with a visual layout but it passed easily as just the actions of a tourist. When she heard Steve and the driver talk about the bistro she smiled warmly between them, letting it linger up at Steve for a moment before looking out her window. Though the townhouse they had chosen for them was nice she had stayed in grander. Still, Natalie was extremely excited and happy with their cozy new commendations. “Oh, honey... it’s so beautiful,” she cooed, waiting for the taxi to come to a stop before slipping out and letting Steve tend to things there. Part of her hated letting him do everything but this was part of the relationship at that stage.

She snapped a picture from the outside before following him inside after he unlocked and opened the door. Pausing only a moment to wave goodbye to the driver before slipping inside and shutting the door. Inside she changed instantly, her expression serious now as she gave Steve a quick look over before letting him go upstairs. There was something in his eyes that troubled her a little but for now she was content on letting it go until after she did a quick inspection of the downstairs. It was routine for her to check for listening devices or other surveillance equipment that might have been planted before their arrival. Even the best planned missions had leaks sometimes.

By the time he had come downstairs to check on her, she was standing on a chair checking an over hanging light fixture. Glancing down at him briefly, “I just want to do a quick check upstairs. After that we can go down to that bistro... Might be beneficial to walk, take our time and maybe get lucky along the way.” Satisfied with her inspection she steps down from the chair and walks up to him, looking up at him she smiles slightly. “How are you holding up? I know this isn’t a battlefield but... I understand you feeling... awkward or tense.”

[Genkai]

Pepper Potts

She could tell he was bothered by recent events. They were beginning to pile up. The Avengers Imitative didn't pan out as Tony had thought it would, they wanted Iron Man but not Tony Stark. Which meant they wanted a hero, not a selfish man who paraded around like he owned the planet. Of course Pepper wasn't to know about that but she did because she was the one Tony went to when he wanted to complain about certain things and people with eye patches. And then there was still the shaky transition from weapons to doing 'globally good' deeds. While she supported the change, it wasn't going to be easy nor speedy. Tony needed to understand that he would never be able to please everyone and that he needed to be more confident in his actions and stand behind them. Any faltering would be prized nuggets for the press to gobble up. Speaking of press, Pepper had thought she saw a certain blond Vanity Fair reporter queuing up with the other reporters of the press. Would Christine Everhart fly all the way to NYC to pester Tony?

Perhaps.

But Pepper didn't want to deal with her at the moment, or ever again for that matter so she stayed backstage and kept watching her phone. There was still some time before Tony would likely arrive but something told her that he would make the people wait. Either on purpose or on accident. If Tony had to leave for some Iron Man related duties, he would tell her, so she wasn't worried about that. But if he had run into trouble he would still contact her, wouldn't he? Surely. So Pepper just assumed he would be running a little late. By the time he was fifteen minutes late, she decided to head out and find a seat. As she was doing so, one of the managers stopped her and asked where Tony was. "He's on his way, don't worry." Pepper smiled, trying to reassure the man that this was typical for Tony. The woman knew how to put on a nice smile for others who wanted to worry and hurry about frantically. Hopefully the wait would in fact be worth it.

Moving around the side of area, she found a seat off to the side and sat down. Glancing at the phone in her hand, she saw no new messages from Tony or JARVIS. As much as she wanted to text or call her boss, she knew he didn't need to be reminded how late he was. Already twenty-one minutes. The crowds were buzzing with the comments made by Cowl. Many were defending Tony but some were a bit uneasy. Pepper glanced off, it made the woman a bit uncomfortable to be a fly on the wall when the topic was Tony Stark. As far as Tony was concerned, he and the suit were one. That may be true but Pepper wished Tony didn't do so many reckless things and get hurt. The feeling in the pit of her stomach from when she first came across Tony's bullet riddled suit and him in the lab banged up as well, was something she could never forget. He was putting his life on the line for the sake of others. At first it seemed like the usual revenge sort of thing but it soon became more. Tony changed and it was a little mystifying because of how unexpected it was.

He wanted to change though.

And that's what made it most pivotal. But she was there to support him. She had faith in him, even when she wasn't sure what he was exactly plotting or planning. Pepper knew her place was alongside Tony, well maybe a step or two behind, but still, Pepper Potts knew she was happy working with Tony. Even if the workload was a bit worse now that he was trying to do good and polish his name, she didn't have any regrets. In a sense, she was lucky. Her boss was annoying, immature, slightly dangerous and delusional but she didn't regret applying for her job. She knew people who were miserable and hated their boss and hated their lives based on what they did every day. Hopefully Tony was also satisfied with his career path but it looked like it was being molded into something he could put more well thought pride into. Checking the time, it was now thirty-three minutes passed the intended start time. The crowd was still restless and Pepper rubbed her head, feeling her coffee buzz slowly fading away. Her stomach was also loudly informing her of how she needed to eat.

More minutes ticked by and soon music started to play and Pepper let out a sigh. Finally. He had to be accompanied by his theme song of course. Pepper sat up a bit more and looked up. Usually she was behind the scenes, fixing technical issues, never in the crowd. It was a little weird seeing Tony on stage. He began to talk and cameras flashed. She listened, hoping to figure out why he had gathered so many people for such a thing. She caught his eye for a moment and gave him a bit of a look which read she wasn't happy with his tardiness or his typical entrance. But she knew a show had to be put on so she just waited patiently with everyone else as he continued to talk about how he's changed and how saying it was far too easy and how she knew him so well. Wait, her? Why was she being brought into this? Pepper didn't like where this was going but then hated where it was going when he asked for her to come up and see him. Good god. Many people glanced to her and Pepper felt herself get up and walk herself up to where Tony was waiting.

Why on earth he liked to torture her in new ways was beyond her. She really hated everyone looking her. It just made her feel uncomfortable. Like she was in middle school all over again with her geeky glasses and her freckles and her baggy jeans she found at a garage sale. Didn't Tony know how weird it was to be with him when he was like this? He was embarrassing her the way a parent does their own child and she still had no idea what any of this was about. If Tony had wanted to say change was happening and he didn't care about Cowl, it could have been done much more simply. Pepper made sure to not show her sheer fury and panic but she knew she would have a nice enough time screaming at Tony for pretty much humiliating her when they got back to his apartment. Her head was starting to hurt once more but all she could do was put on a bit of a forced smile because they had company at the moment, and many of the guests had cameras and such.

"Mmm...yes, Mr. Stark?" She asked simply though her voice held a sharp dangerously cheery tone that was not a good one.

- - -

Steve Rogers

Walking in and finding Natasha checking out light fixtures was a bit unexpected. Well not unexpected but still a bit odd. But when he thought about be cautious and checking the home out before making sure it was wire free, it wasn't too odd. He was just surprised. Steve watched her finish up and get down off the chair and make her way to him. He smiled a little. "Alright that sounds fine." He replied to her. He hoped his eyes didn't show too much sadness. Thinking of Peggy was purely unintentional and he knew it could cause some consequences down the road in regards to their mission. He didn't know how to be married or romantic or anything like that. And his mind was trying to reference whatever he could which turned out to be small interactions with the feisty woman he met while training in the army. It wasn't his fault Peggy and Natasha were similar.

And he could tell Natasha still worried about him.

At first he could understand her concern for him adjusting into the field of acting but it was starting to make him more uneasy with her always looking after him over her shoulder. He knew things had to be perfect, he was a solider and though it might not carry over flawlessly, his training could still help him keep his cool and aim for success. Natasha was a female who was probably used to the idea of cozening up with someone and settling down. Did Steve envision himself married? Maybe. It was a little fuzzy to be honest. But he was aware that females did have a bit more of a dreamy idea when it came to weddings and marriage and children. That sort of stuff didn't normally cross a male's mind. And back when Steve was fighting HYDRA, he didn't have time to fantasize about marrying Peggy because half the time they were arguing while in the middle of a war. But the war was over, Peggy was gone and he was alone. Would he ever get married?

For real?

Pushing thoughts aside, he noticed Natasha had already gone upstairs. Relaxing a bit, he looked around the home more closely. He thought the idea of a camera was smart. He was sure photos could come in handy when it came to providing SHIELD needed evidence with the closing of the mission. For now he stepped out into the back patio. It too was a bit cramped. He looked around and could hear bluejays off in a tree to the left. He smelled the air and closed his eyes. Before Steve could gather himself once more, a small meow entered his ears and broke the shell of his composure. He turned and saw a small black cat sauntering along the side of their wooden tall fence. Cats were nice. He smiled and crouched down. Maybe the cat was a stray but Steve enjoyed all sorts of animals. They had many cats where he grew up. There was an instance when he was about ten when he came across two older kids kicking a box around in an alley.

When Steve had looked at the scene more closely, he soon saw a small shredded tail sticking out of the box which was upside down. He hurried over and pushed the two guys away and picked up the box carefully turning it over to see two small grey tabby cats beaten up. Before the slim boy could yell at the two kids, they punched him out and ran off, escaping any sort of trouble. When Steve came around, he saw Bucky with the two cats. Steve and his friend took the cats to a shelter but there wasn't any room so Steve hid them in his room for three days until they got better enough to go back on the street. His mother wasn't too fond of Steve's good deeds when they got him black eyes or stray animals but she knew his heart was in the right place. It usually always was. Shaking the memory away, he reached out a hand toward the small feline, hoping it would approach him. The cat meowed again and Steve stayed still.

Hopefully the man's size wasn't too intimidating or it would break Steve's heart to know cats were scared of him.

Luckily the black animal slowly moved toward the blue eyed man who softly scratched under its neck. For some reason, finding the cat was making him feel a lot better: more relaxed and optimistic. Soon the cat turned and headed off, it jumped up on the high fence and escaped. Steve stood up and smiled. Feeling better, he turned and headed inside with hope that Natasha was done with her inspection and they could now explore the area a little. It was important that they get a good grasp of everything fairly quickly. Walking over to the stairs, he called for her and headed out himself and waited in the front down the steps. He saw a few people walk by. One woman had a dog, another had looked like she had just come from the market. It was a nice area. Who would think something sinister could be brewing? Appearances were easily deceiving though.

As they heading along toward the bistro Steve had heard about, he slipped his arm around the woman's waist, bringing her close to him. A content smile was on his lips as he focused on the mission, the cat and how he needed to be happy. He was Jake, he was married and he was very very happy. Part of him was tempted to find some romantic books and read through them during the next few days but that would probably be a little weird to some people and it might compromise the mission so he dashed that notion away quickly. Walking along, he leaned over and placed a very delicate brush of his lips against Natasha's temple. It was more of a 'thank you' sort of gesture for being patient with him but it probably looked like a playful affectionate sort of gesture from husband to wife. As they neared the bistro, warm scents filled the breeze: freshly baked bread, wine, meat, cheese, apples. Steve was ready to eat now, for sure.