I still don't own Captain America.
Chapter 2:
When the limousine pulled up to Howard's estate, Peggy could not stop a slight gasp escaping from her lips. She had never been to the millionaire's home before; it was breathtaking. Howard chuckled to himself. He was used to such reactions from the dames he brought home, but he'd not expected Peggy to be so easily impressed. He chalked it up to the wine.
The chauffer held the door for Agent Carter as Stark reached out his hand to assist her from the vehicle. Once inside the fabulous mansion, Howard took her stole and handed it to the butler with murmured instructions about the fondue and coffee. Then he turned to his friend.
"While we're waiting, would you like a tour?" He felt silly and conceited asking, but anything to keep her mind off Steven's demise.
"Sure." Peggy tried to smile.
After showing her some of the main public areas and realizing she was bored, Howard had an idea. Peggy wasn't just any dame. She was smart, she had high security clearance, and she was a trusted friend. She was also in need of some excitement. He would take her to the basement and show her his secret laboratory.
"My goodness!" Peggy gasped when she saw the astounding array of technical equipment, brightly blinking lights, and even futuristic looking automobiles. "Does the military know about this?"
"No. And you're not going to tell them." It wasn't a threat or an order. The calmness in his voice proved his trust in her.
"Why did you want to show me?"
Could he tell her the truth without making it hollow? Not the whole truth. What good is a distraction that's labeled a distraction? But why he was willing to make this gesture? Sure.
"I don't have a lot of friends, Peggy. I don't trust many people. You are one of the few people I could allow down here."
Her eyes shone, happier than he'd seen her without Steve. "Thank you, Howard. That means a good deal to me."
Howard smiled. He felt good about this evening. Not about Steve being gone, but about being vulnerable. He didn't do that. He didn't let people in. Funny thing; once you started, it got easier—even after a loss. Steven Rogers was the first person since childhood to whom he had opened up. Not this much, just a little. Howard had wondered if he'd ever risk it again after the death of the man who had been his first real friend in years. But yes, it was worth the risk. It had been worth it for Steve, and it was worth it for Peggy. Maybe someday it would be worth…
"Could you tell me again where the restrooms are?" Peggy's question interrupted his thoughts.
"There's one down here. Second door on the left. I'll just go check on that fondue."