A/N: I know I said I was shooting for an update at once a week, but here's another chapter a little early! I'm really enjoying writing this story and if you're enjoying reading it…then click that follow button and let other know! I'm not an author that holds chapter's hostage for reviews, but I'd love to know what you think! Certain songs keep popping up when I'm writing, so if anyone is interested, I will create a playlist for this story. I hope you enjoy this! Again, many thanks to yagalinus0420! You rock girlfriend!

*Disclaimer…again, I do not own any characters, locations, or plot ideas derived from the Avengers movie, any Marvel comics, and I don't own Steve Rogers….but I'd like the chance to let him own me! ;)

Chapter 2

Stacey had sent me some messages, just as she said she would to my phone. I checked them as I walked away from Director Fury's office. I had wanted to go to the gym after the day I'd had, but now it seemed like I had homework to do.

As I scrolled through my messages, I didn't see anything out of the ordinary. Just as I was about to exit out of my email program, a new message popped up.

From V. Potts

Subject: Professional opinion

Paige,

I know we've talked briefly on a few matters before, but I was wondering if I could pick your brain about something. I know you will be docking within the hour; would you be free to come to my office at Stark Tower? If you have other commitments, I understand, but if not I'll be looking for you around 4pm.

Please let me know if we need to reschedule.

Pepper

P.S. I've secured a suite for you at the Four Seasons. I know that you prefer a little more living space when you can get it.

Well, I thought, this is interesting. I shot off a reply letting her know I would be there as soon as we docked and thanked her for the reservations. Pepper and I had met several times, usually always to discuss Stark's sessions and her concerns about his ego-centric personality. I personally didn't understand what she saw in him. Yes, he was attractive. As he's stated many times before: "Genius, millionaire, playboy, philanthropist". Pepper saw something in him that others didn't. I knew Fury needed him, even respected him. I respected him because he was a philanthropist. He had changed his weapons company into a green energy company; providing sustainable energy at a fraction of the cost. He almost single handedly stimulated the economy and you had to respect that.

Pepper and I had developed a working friendship. I respected her tenacity, and I think she saw me as a younger version of herself; I was determined and worked hard. I'd achieved a lot in my short life, after all the things I'd been through. I even, if truth be told, looked up to Pepper Potts.

I reached my quarters and kicked off my shoes as soon as I entered. I dropped my briefcase on my small dining table and stretched my arms over my head. My room was small, but I was used to small. I didn't have it crammed with a lot of things; mostly because I didn't have much to my name.

I looked over to the only picture I kept in my quarters; my parents and I. I was 6 and had a goofy and awkward smile. I was sitting on my mother's lap and my dad was next to her with his arm draped over her shoulders.

It was the only picture I had of the three of us. They were both dead 6 months after that picture had been taken and I was in the foster care system. I'd like to think that they would have been proud of me, but I honestly couldn't remember much about them. I could remember my mom's laugh. The way the sun caught her auburn hair. I remembered my dad's kind, green eyes and the way his rough hands felt when he would hug me. I guess those things were enough to get me by.

I sat down at my desk and opened my personal email. A few from some former colleagues, probably wondering where I was. One from my former roommate from the dorms at the University of Missouri.

I scanned it quickly; she was getting married and she wanted me to come. The wedding was 8 months from now. I sent a quick reply telling her I'd try to make it.

I scanned the other emails. The Chief of Police in Kansas City knew that I had been recruited for a government job, but he didn't know the details. I had my own private practice, but I was often called upon by the police department to do profiling. I suspected he thought I was working for the FBI. If only he knew.

I sighed as I shut down my laptop and opened my briefcase. There it was glaring at me from the top of the stack, Steve Rogers SHIELD profile. I pulled it out and set it on the table, not ready to actually open it. I thought back to our first meeting.

20 months ago

" , what brings you here today?" I asked as I sat pen in hand.

I saw the man they called Captain America. His blue eyes were alert and gorgeous. I could make out his taut muscles under the sleeves of his plaid shirt. His brown leather jacket was draped across the arm of his chair. I could honestly see why people found him attractive; I wasn't blind. But the chiseled features and impressive physique didn't do it for me. Sure they were an added benefit, but those eyes were the feature that was speaking to me.

He'd seen so much. The Great Depression and the loss of his family. A man that gave him a chance and World War 2. They also held loss and sadness in them, something that was understandable but, I thought unnecessary.

I wondered if people could see that in my eyes too.

"Please call me Steve, Ma'am." He replied calmly as he sat relaxed in an armchair across from me.

"I'm here to talk about Agent Coulson. You know that and I know that." I saw him smirk slightly and I was confused by his demeanor. This didn't seem like the polite man I had read about.

"We're here specifically to talk about the battle of New York and Agent Coulson's death. I want you to tell me what your feelings are." I commented as I scratched down a few notes on the pad on my lap.

"I feel like I let him down. It's my fault that he's dead!" He exclaimed.

"Steve, it's natural to feel guilt. The purpose of this session and any further sessions is to get to the root of the guilt. In my experience a certain event can trigger memories and feelings. I-"

"In your experience? Don't talk to me about experience; I'm old enough to be your grandfather." He spat.

I put my pen down and put the pad of paper on the table between us and looked directly at him.

"Is that how you feel? Like a grandfather?" I asked calmly. I knew Fury wanted more out of this session than just closure over Phil.

"I'm 89 years old…isn't that old enough to be a grandfather?" he asked.

"You live in the body of a 30 year old. Do you have the mind of an 89 year old?" I shot back.

"No, I don't." he stated with a sigh. I saw his shoulders slump forward slightly.

"Then why would you say that? Do you feel you should be a grandfather at this point?" I asked, desperately trying to see the root of this problem.

Obviously, I knew that had he not taken the Super Serum, he probably would be a grandfather right now. I knew about Peggy Carter and assumed that she fit in here somewhere.

"That's not the point. An innocent man died. I should have been able to prevent it." He said as he stood to look out my window.

"Steve, I don't think I really need to remind you, but a lot of innocent people died when Loki came to Earth. Could you have prevented that too?" I asked and stood to pour myself a glass of water. He looked over to my movements and I gestured to the second empty glass. He nodded his head and I poured one for him as well. I picked up the glass and handed it to him.

"I understand that, but as the Captain of this team, it's my responsibility to ensure my team members come out of the fight safely." He said hotly as he slammed his glass on the table so forcefully, I was surprised it didn't shatter.

"Steve, the title of Captain was a stage name for you during the war." I said as tactfully as possible as he rolled his eyes at me. "You say you need to ensure your team members safety. What about Bucky?"

I knew I was on dangerous ground.

"Bucky has nothing to do with this." He shook his head. "That was a long time ago."

"Regardless of how long ago it was, memories of guilt over Bucky's death would be triggered by Agent Coulson." I stated as I waited as he let this information sink in.

"Death is my burden to bear Doctor. I have to live the rest of my life, watching people I love and care for die." He said remorsefully.

Obviously, the man thought he was immortal, but I didn't think it equated to a god complex. He'd survived being frozen in ice for 70 years. His metabolism was 4 times faster than that of a normal human, so his body was able to heal and regenerate itself.

"Are you afraid that you won't ever die? That you'll never be at peace with your life?" I asked quietly. I didn't actively think about my death, but I knew very well that it was a basic part of life. I couldn't imagine thinking that I would never die; watching loved ones grow old and die...leaving you alone.

"If I was going to die, don't you think it would have been in the impact of that ship hitting the ice?" he asked sarcastically.

"Steve, I don't have those answers for you." I replied sadly. I reached out and hold his hand to comfort him, knowing that I was crossing the line.

"That's the problem I have Doctor Smith, I don't think you have any answers for me." He said. He grabbed his jacket as he dropped my hand, not before squeezing it lightly.

I saw another flash of something in his eyes...regret? And with that he was walking out my door.

Captain Rogers never came back to see me. I never sought him out. I felt like I had violated the professionalism of Doctor/Patient by comforting him like that. I was supposed to remain neutral.

The only times I ever saw him was in the gym, but we stayed as far from each other as possible. He was usually lifting weights, while I took over the treadmill or elliptical. If he was using a treadmill, I would go to the weights and do light reps.

We never came across each other in the corridors, but I was privy to some Avengers meetings. Fury usually wanted me there to gauge the members reactions to information they were given. Steve and I never made eye contact. We never directed questions to each other. Banner had asked me about it during one of our weekly meals.

I honestly thought Dr. Banner was trying to start a friendship with me, and I wasn't opposed to that. He was an intelligent man, and I wasn't afraid of him. Many people were, and I think he respected me for it. But when Bruce asked me about Steve, I shut down. First of all, I wasn't prepared for "Paige, what the hell is going on between you and Cap?"

I didn't know how to answer it, so I didn't. I just walked away. Thinking about it now, that was 3 weeks ago and I had been avoiding Bruce since.

I shook my head as I stood up and stretched.I pulled out an overnight bag. If Pepper Potts wanted to pick my brain, then I would use her connections to get a fancy hotel room for myself for the night. I didn't mind living on the Helicarrier, but when I could get away, I did.

I threw in a pair of old ripped blue jeans and a nicer pair of jeans, just in case I decided to go out to dinner instead of ordering room service. I pulled out a black sweater and a green tank top to go under it. I walked to my dresser and grabbed some underwear and socks. I was about to pull some pajamas out when my door beeped.

Who the hell is there? I wanted to scream; sometimes I just wanted to be left alone. Instead I went to the control panel and sighed.

Natasha.

I pushed the button to open the door and there she stood in all her toned glory. Her curly red hair was pulled into a ponytail and she wore jean and a t-shirt that said I heart NY. I smirked at her appearance. She smiled back.

"What's up Doc?" she asked with a twinkle in her green eyes. Oh, hilarious.

"You need new material, Nat." I said with a laugh as I stepped aside so she could come in. I shut the door behind her.

"Leaving us so soon Paige?" she asked as she eyed my bag. I walked back over to my bed and continued packing.

"I'm taking shore leave, just like everyone else." I said matter of factly. I pulled some old boxer shorts and a wife beater out of my drawers and packed them into my bag.

"Why are you dressed like that?" I asked as I went to my bathroom for my toiletries. I came back out and Natasha was looking out the window. We had started to pull into the harbor. Another 30 minutes and we would be docked.

"Clint, Bruce and I are going out. Do you want to come have dinner with us? Clint's trying to get Steve to join us." she answered as she turned back around.

I shook my head. "No, I have an appointment as soon as we dock." I replied, not wanting to notice the mention of Rogers. "Besides, this sounds more like an Avengers day out to me." I said with a wink.

She laughed. It was a beautiful, throaty sound. I had always had the impression that Natasha never let her hair down, so to speak. But once she opened up to me, I learned that wasn't true; she was just very dedicated and diligent in her job.

"It sounds that way, but it was actually Bruce's idea. He's trying to reacquaint himself around the general population." she said with a shrug.

"Besides, he wanted me to ask you since you seem to be ignoring him. You're not trying to make him angry, are you Doc?" she asked with a smile.

I ignored her question. She knew I was avoiding all the members of the team, and now that Agent Hill was off my schedule, I could do just that.

Except for Fury's little project...

"I think he'll do just fine. He knows where his limitations are and like he's admitted himself, it's not a matter of not getting angry," I started saying when she cut me off.

"He's always angry. I know." she rolled her eyes. I laughed; not because Banner's problem was funny, but because she knew all too well how my train of thought was going.

"If you think it's going to be a problem, you can call my cell and I can come and help run interference." I offered.

"Between me and Clint and if we can get the Cap out, I don't think we'll need it. I was asking because I would like to get know you on another level." She said, almost shyly.

Natasha and I had spent plenty of time together. We had always kept things casual; she didn't talk about her past and I didn't talk about mine.

"What are you playing at Natasha?" I asked suspiciously. I waited for her to respond.

"I'm not playing at anything Paige. Why did you immediately go there?" I heard her ask, sounding a little cross.

"I've had a long day. You're just another person suggesting that I make friends and play nice." I replied. I saw Natasha looking at the picture of me with my parents.

"Do you remember them much?" she asked quietly. I walked over and sighed.

"Not really. I was only six when the house burned down. I didn't go on to live with family who could tell me about them." I said as I turned to look at her.

"Look, we're going to have dinner, maybe a few drinks. It wouldn't hurt to expand your horizons a little." she said as if it were the most innocent thing ever.

"Paige, I think you're interesting. You helped me get over a rough patch. Clint speaks highly of you, and Bruce enjoys your company." she said as she moved back to the door.

"Besides, you might even have some fun. I bet we could find a good looking guy for you." she said with a twinkle in her eyes.

I rolled my eyes, "The last thing I need is a hook up." I was racking my brain trying to think of what else I might need for the leave.

"Paige, when was the last time you got laid?" she asked pointedly. I locked my gaze with hers.

"6 months ago, not that it's any of your business. When was the last time you got laid?" I asked defensively.

"About an hour ago." she said with a wink. I laughed, I couldn't help it.

"I'm not saying you need to go out and have a one night stand, but would it kill you to let yourself have some fun?" she asked me, exasperatedly.

I shook my head. I hadn't been out with anyone since the last time we docked in San Francisco 6 months ago. That had been a disaster.

"You might have point, especially after the day I've had. I'll call you later after my meeting. Have a good night." I said as I went to grab my shoes that I had kicked off by the door.

"You too Paige. Oh, and if you're going to see Pepper, I'd dress a lot more casually. She's been off with Tony all day." she smirked and was out the door before I could ask her how she knew about my meeting with pepper.

I shook my head and looked down at my modest pencil skirt and blouse. These people were getting so frustrating! I turned back to my room and pulled the nicer pair of jeans out of my bag and changed into them. I pulled a billowy peasant blouse of my closet. Casual, but nice. I slipped a pair of black flats on and gave myself a once over in the mirror.

Not too bad for 31 years old. I stood at 5'9 with brown hair and hazel eyes. I worked out every morning, and sometimes during the day. Working for SHIELD, you never knew when being in shape would benefit you. I glanced at my midsection, and my slight spare tire. I was conscious of it, but I doubted others noticed.

When I had lived in Kansas City, I was always at home cooking for myself. When and wherever we docked, I usually went out for a lavish meal. The mess hall here on the Helicarrier was definitely lacking. I liked a good meal whenever I could get it.

I tugged my hair into a low ponytail, wishing that I hadn't been so stubborn about growing it out. I had kept my hair short, like a pixie for as long as I could remember. I personally thought it suited me, but I had made the decision to grow it out two years ago. Right after Phil died.

I shook my head and berated myself. It had been two fucking years! I needed to move on. How was I supposed to be a role model to anyone, to help them move past the grieving stage, if I couldn't do it myself?

I grabbed my overnight bag and slung it over my shoulder. I grabbed my briefcase and purse and headed for the door. Once I had locked up I made my way down the corridor to the flight deck.

Protocol dictated that we show our SHIELD ID cards to leave and board the ship. I was digging in my purse looking for my ID when my overnight bag fell off my shoulder.

"Oh, for the love of all things that is holy!" I exclaimed, exasperated. I continued digging through the depths of my purse when I heard a familiar but quiet voice.

"Ma'am, can I give you a hand with your bags?" he asked quietly. I looked up to see none other than Captain America himself looking at me expectantly.

"Mr. Rogers, I appreciate the offer, but I can manage perfectly fine on my own." I answered, slightly more annoyed than I would have preferred.

I instantly regretted my tone when I saw the look in his eyes. Hurt combined with embarrassment. I finally pulled my ID out and straightened up.

"I'm sorry Mr. Rogers. I guess I'm ready to be off this ship." I offered, trying to lighten this situation. But my mind was racing; what is he doing here now? Is this what Fury meant by him seeking me out?

"No apologies necessary, ma'am. Just thought I would offer to help." He said, still looking embarrassed. He looked down to the dock and I followed his line of sight. Dock hands were setting up the planking so we all could go ashore.

"Mr. Rogers, I thought we agreed that the term ma'am was unnecessary?" I said, trying desperately to ease his embarrassment. "Please, call me Paige."

He looked over at me and smiled. I'd be a lying ass if I said he wasn't dreamy. Blue eyes, light brown hair, chiseled features. And the smile, the smile was definitely swoon worthy.

"Paige it is then, but only if you call me Steve again." he replied evenly.

He picked up my overnight bag and handed it to me. I had read his file before, when Fury first brought him into SHIELD. He was born in 1922, the ma'am thing was understandable. So was the offer to help. Although, I would say he got the gist of the feminist movement since he handed my bag to me and didn't try to hold onto it.

"What are your plans for shore leave, Steve?" I asked nonchalantly. I looked up at his 6' frame as he towered over me slightly.

"Dinner plans with Natasha, Clint, and Dr. Banner. What about you?" he asked as he pulled his brown leather jacket on.

"I have a meeting with Pepper Potts, if we ever get off this damn ship." I mumbled. I looked around hoping to get off soon and catch a cab. I'd never make it across town at this rate.

As if he was reading my mind, he chimed in.

"Would you like a ride? I'm headed over to see Tony before dinner." he asked me suddenly. I turned to look at him when he smiled again.

"It's perfectly safe, and I have an extra helmet." he pointed over my shoulder and I turned to see his motorcycle being rolled out on deck.

I took a deep breath. Riding on Captain America's bike, with my arms wrapped around said American Captain. My libido, which had been silent, even after my brief conversation with Natasha, started to speak up. Do it!

"I don't know Steve. I've never ridden before and..."I trailed off, mostly because I wasn't sure what to follow up with.

"You don't have to if you don't want to, but trying to catch a cab in rush hour traffic in New York...good luck!" he laughed at that last part.

I sighed because, damnit, he was right. I justified the thoughts in my head.

He was going the exact same place I was. The bike would probably be quicker than a cab. I was supposed to get close to him, per Fury's orders.

"Alright." I said quietly. He looked down at me again.

"Beg your pardon?" he asked me. I wasn't sure if hadn't heard me or just couldn't believe I had agreed. After all, I had done everything possible to keep my distance. But so did he.

"I said yes. Thank you Steve, it's very generous of you." I answered, fighting to keep my voice even.

"You're welcome." he said as he grabbed my bag from my shoulder. We go the all clear from the deck crew. We could safely go leave the ship.

"Paige, may I ask you a question?" Steve asked as we moved down to the dock to wait for his bike.

"Of course. What's up?" I asked as I checked my watch for the time.

"Why have we been avoiding each other?" he asked as a member of the flight crew parked his bike in front of us.

I couldn't answer right away, and in my hesitation Steve had managed to pack my overnight bag in one of his saddle bags.

"I'm not sure what you mean, Steve." I said, avoiding his gaze.

"I'm sure you do, Doc." he said as he handed me a helmet. I stared at it and I felt him take my briefcase and purse from me as well and pack them into the bag on the opposite side.

"Do you know how to put that thing on?" he asked, since I had apparently lost the ability to speak.

I shook my head and he stepped close to me and placed the helmet gently on my head. As he began to fit the trap to fit my head, he looked into my eyes.

"Paige, there isn't reason for us to behave this way. I know now you were only doing your job and trying to help me." he said as he adjusted the head gear.

"Steve, I...I'm sorry." I said as he finished and took a slight step back. "I shouldn't have behaved that way; it was completely unprofessional." I said as I looked up into his eyes.

"I'm sorry too." he said as he stepped over to the bike and swung a leg over. He deftly gave it a kick start and I was surprised at the thrill I felt at hearing the engine rev.

"Climb on. We've got places to be." he said simply.

I copied his actions and swung my leg over and situated myself behind him. I was about to wrap my arms around him when he looked over his shoulder.

"Hold on tight. We won't go too fast, but you'll want a good grip." he said with a smile. "If I'm going too fast for you or you feel sick, just squeeze my thigh."

"Why should I squeeze your thigh?" I asked, slightly perplexed.

"So, I'll feel it over the vibration of the bike." he said with a laugh. "Ready?"

I shrugged, "As I'll ever be."

He turned back around and started to move slowly through the small crowd of dock crew. I turned and looked back towards the Helicarrier and was positive I could see Director Fury standing on the deck, arms crossed over his chest, smiling.