"Maybe when you're older," said Steve.
"Dad, come on. Spider-Man's been Spider-Man since he was only 15. And he didn't have Captain America for a dad or a top-level spy for a mom or even any combat training. I'm 17 and I have ALL those things. This is what you've been training me for. Why won't you let me do this?" asked James.
"Because you're too young. Just give it a few more years," his father replied.
"You're the one always inspiring everyone to stand up and fight. To do all they can. Well I can do this. I'm ready," James argued.
"No, you're not. It's too dangerous. I promise, two years, tops, you'll be ready," Steve tried to make it sound like two years wasn't so much. To him, it wasn't, but he knew, to his son, it was too long.
James left the room, knowing he would not be able to convince his dad.
"You know he's gonna do it anyway, right? He's his father's son," Sharon said, entering the room.
"I know. I just wish he could see it's not time yet," Steve said.
"For who? For James…Or for you?" she wondered.
"Sharon, this isn't about me."
"He's ready. You know it. You're just afraid that he'll get himself hurt. Or worse."
"I can't let anything happen to him. He's our son."
"Yes he is. Our son. Your son. Steve Rogers' son. You may not wear the star on your chest and the shield on your arm anymore, but you'll always be Captain America. Most heroes dream of being you. Because you always stood up and fought for those who couldn't fight for themselves. You lied on registration forms to try to enlist in the army, even when you were ineligible and told countless times, "No," you said "Yes." Do you really think James – your son – will be any different? He's gonna do this, with or without your permission."
"Then why would he-"
"He wants your blessing."
Steve thought about this for a few seconds, then decided his wife was right. He climbed the stairs to his son's room and knocked on the door.
"James. Your mother and I have talked about it and we think you're old enough and you've had enough training to put on the uniform and become the new Captain America. I hope you're not mad at me. I was only worried about you."
No response.
"James?" Steve opened the door.
James was not in his room. The window was open. Steve hurried over to his son's closet and opened it. The case which held his son's custom made version of the Captain America suit had been broken into and the suit was gone. Steve turned around to see Sharon standing at the door, trying to hide a smile.
"What?" He asked her.
"Told you so," she grinned.
Steve tried to be frustrated, but he couldn't. He was proud of his son. He knew he would make a great Captain America. Steve had even named him after two of his best friends, who had also been Captain America. He sat down on his son's bed.
"James Samuel Rogers. Captain America," It filled him with pride to say it. He couldn't help but smile as well.
