Thanks everyone for reading and reviewing and favoriting, all that jazz! It means a lot. You're all so wonderful. I don't know if I mentioned the season this takes place in yet, but I imagine its getting close to the middle of summer by now.
This chapters a little shorter, but I can't really add much else. Hope you all enjoy!
The Red Dove: You may just be right. ;)
Cara Tala: They were good, don't worry! And thank you, warm fuzzies for all 3
Accio: I know right? And thanks as always Accio! You're ever so kind.
Cereulean89: Aww thank you!
Disclaimer: I disclaim all I don't own... Which is almost everything apart from my OC's.
Steve waited outside the tower for Adrianna, anxiously bouncing on the balls of his feet. He was looking forward to their date but still, it was hard not to feel inadequate. He was still just a kid from Brooklyn after all. He held a flower in his hand as he stood there. Lately she'd been teaching him all about flowers. She loved reading about them, staring at their pictures when she was stressed and of course stopping to take a look or smell them. Identifying each species seemed to be a game for Adrianna, she even knew their meanings. He hoped she remembered this one's meaning. He looked down at the tiny purple blossoms that were stuck on the green sprig and smiled to himself. He honestly couldn't wait as he stood there in his dark khaki colored pants, his button down shirt neatly tucked in. He was thankful his clothing was so light. This summer was warmer than most and tonight, though tolerable, would definitely be warm.
Adrianna walked out of the elevator, heading to the doors. She brushed some loose strands away from her eyes, tucking them behind her ear. She'd pulled her hair up today and hoped it was a wise decision. She'd changed and freshened up in the locker rooms at the gym. She smoothed her pale yellow sundress, and bravely stood before the doors. The bottom of her dress was rimmed with white lace and her dress itself had light pink flowers printed on it. She had her purse in hand and wore comfortable sandals. Steve had advised her during their lunch the day before to wear comfortable clothes. And during today's lunch with Bruce he'd made certain she'd be alright tonight. Adrianna smiled in spite of her nerves. All day she'd been excited and also nervous, scared he'd not want to see her ever again after tonight. But her father's advice rang through her head: you'll never know unless you try. Right now she imagined her old dad in front of the TV with Sadie on his lap, munching some snack they'd concocted.
Slowly she opened the door and smiled when she spotted Steve. He looked up right away and his sweet smile gave Adrianna a flush of warmth in her chest.
"Hey Steve," She walked over, smiling still. She noted his attire, loving his predictability. Of course, if he ever decided to adapt to society's changes she'd be here for him.
"Hello Addi, wow you look... beautiful," As he spoke a flush of red spread over his cheeks. Steve scratched the back of his neck and smiled shyly to his date. He then remembered the flower in his hand.
"Oh, I uh, got this for you." He slowly handed it to her and both parties inwardly grinned as their fingers brushed when he handed it over.
"Oh its beautiful Steve. Purple lilac, right?" Adrianna smiled up at him as she admired the small flowers and the healthy sprig they stuck to.
"Yeah, you're right," Steve nodded.
"Isn't it supposed to symbolize the first emotions-"
"Of love, yes," He finished for her, his chest tight with anticipation. He'd spent all night trying to find the right flower, pouring through the book Adrianna had left by accident. He'd return it later.
"Oh Steve, I... I don't quite know what to say." Adrianna was well and truly speechless. No man had put so much thought into a flower for her. Malcolm had always thought them to be useless twigs, he only ever brought home roses when he had hurt her feelings too badly for his words to repair the damage.
"Thank you Steve," Adrianna leaned up and kissed his cheek. Steve froze up again, his cheeks flushing further but a silly grin spreading upon his face.
"You're welcome Addi," He looked down to her and took her hand.
"Come on, dinner's this way." He started walking her towards the park. It wasn't too far away from Stark tower, the pair would able to get there easily at this time of night.
Adrianna wove their fingers together leaning into the Captain's taller figure as they walked. She really couldn't believe she was on a date with Captain America, with Steve Rogers. When they'd first met she never thought she'd date anyone again, let alone him. But she was glad to be doing so again especially with Steve. He was what she needed, strong and sweet. She could only hope she could be what he needed.
The walk to the park was silent, but not that suffocating silence where everything was too awkward. It was companionable, pleasant. They both just relished each others company and took in the scenery around them. Adrianna gazed at her flower, smiling again. She felt Steve's thumb grazing her hand and looked up at him. He was glancing at her and smiled to her when he'd been caught doing so.
"Thanks for coming tonight Addi."
"I wouldn't miss it for the world Captain," She smirked gently, nudging him slightly.
At the park Steve lead her down a few pathways and into a grassy field. Up ahead she saw some lights, dimmer than the lamps that lit the pathways. Candles? Yes they were candles, placed up on the rocks that children would climb up on. Between the two large rocks was a setup of a few blankets and a picnic basket.
"Steve... is that for us?"
"I don't see any other couple out here Addi," Steve teased her lightly and sat down on the blankets. Adrianna sat with him and beamed to her friend. The word sounded wrong to her, not that he wasn't her friend but... he was much more than that.
"Steve you're amazing."
"Tony helped me out with a lot of this stuff," He tried deflecting her praise. Tony had helped with practically everything, it didn't feel right taking all the credit.
"Well, thanks to both of you then. Its... fantastic." Adrianna smiled to Steve softly and he returned the gesture.
"Anything for you Adrianna. Now, how about dinner?"
Dinner went swimmingly. They'd had some pasta and chicken in alfredo sauce, still hot thanks to Tony's technologically advanced Tupperware. They'd had some nice wine, a glass each since Steve didn't normally drink lately and Adrianna didn't want to leave him out. And for dessert they'd had some apple pie, again still fresh and warm.
Once dinner had been consumed the pair had hung around a little while longer, simply discussing what couples normally did about each other. Family, friends, all that jazz. Steve had been opening up about his past more and more to Adrianna. Tonight instead of pain and sorrow, the memories and discussion had actually made him happy. He'd talked about the adventures that he and Bucky had together, like when Bucky had to go to the hospital due to a food allergy which had actually turned out to be a funny story. Adrianna had discussed her mother with Steve. Her mother had died when she was fifteen. But like Steve she was opening up more and more, and tonight she'd talked about her fun times with her mom such as her first time horseback riding with her.
After they deemed it time to go they'd packed the blankets into the basket, cleared the candles and began heading back, hand in hand once more. Steve carried the basket in his other hand. As they walked though he suddenly came to a stop.
"Steve, what's wrong?" Adrianna looked up at him.
"Nothing, nothing is wrong Addi." He assured, nervously.
"Then why'd we stop?" She asked, her brows furrowing gently. His nervousness was unnerving her.
"Because, I have one last thing to do." He said, letting go of her hand. Digging through the basket he pulled out the black case and looked at Adrianna. She studied the velvet case curiously.
"What's that?" She asked, softly.
"Addi, I... I have something to ask, okay?" Steve looked at her softly, but sternly enough so she knew he was serious.
"O-Okay." She nodded quickly.
"Uh, I-I'm nervous so just bare with me. Addi..." Steve took a deep breath and released it slowly.
"Will you be m-my girlfriend?" He asked, stammering from his anxiety. He opened the lid of the case which revealed the necklace he'd gotten for her. It shimmered in the night sky as the street lamps shone around them.
"Steve," Adrianna's eyes were watery as she studied the necklace. It was breathtakingly beautiful. She was shocked to see he had it in hand right now.
"T-That's for me?" She looked up at him, utterly surprised. Earlier in their courtship Malcolm had gotten her necklaces, but never anything like this. Nothing special like this. Why was she even comparing the two at this point? Probably because she was feeling much to special.
"Yeah, its for you." He smiled lightly and began to hand it over.
"Steve I don't know if I could wear it."
"Of course you can," He assured gently, placing it in her hand and closing her fingers over the necklace.
"Steve, how... why?"
"Because you deserve something special." He stated clearly to her, growing more confident while she just felt weaker. Adrianna nodded, speechless for the second time that night. Her heart felt like it'd stop any second and her vision was blurry. She sniffled softly, biting the inside of her lip to stop her tears.
"Are you okay Addi?" He asked, worriedly holding her hands in his. He looked at her, really afraid. Had he broken her?
"I'd love to be your girlfriend Steve." She said, so quietly he almost hadn't heard her.
"Really?" He asked, to which she'd nodded. Steve grinned and hugged her close. That was when Adrianna couldn't fight it anymore. She felt her tears track down her face and leak into his shirt. She returned the hug, her emotions spilling out like paint from a bucket. Steve was really surprised by it all. Adrianna hadn't ever cried in front of him before, though she'd come close a few times. he rubbed her back and tried cooing soothing words to her.
When Adrianna got control of herself she stepped away a little, just to give them both a bit of space. She wiped her eyes with a tissue form her purse and looked up at Steve.
"I'm sorry..."
"For what Addi? There's nothing to be sorry for." He stroked her cheek gently, frowning softly.
"For getting your shirt all wet." She gave a watery smile and a bubble of laughter escaped her lips. Steve blinked in surprise, the change in her emotions confusing. But her small laughter was a good sign and he smiled back to her, chuckling and shaking his head.
"Its okay Addi. No harm done."
"Steve, would you uh, help me clip this on?" She requested softly, the necklace dangling from her fingers. Steve nodded and she handed to over. She turned around and slowly he snaked the chain around her neck. Steve swallowed thickly as he realized how close they were standing and at her tiny shiver when he had to brush some of her hair out of the way. He clipped it as loose as the chain allowed and stepped away, the warm night air suddenly felt scorching.
"There, all done." He smiled anyways as she turned around. She looked beautiful, as always.
"How's it look?"
"It was stunning before but now its even better on you." Steve was surprised how easily the words flowed out from his mouth when he was just not thinking about them. Maybe he should do that more often. Thinking about what to say always gave him nerves.
"Thanks Steve," She said softly with flushed cheeks. She again linked their hands.
"Ready to go?" Steve nodded and they headed back.
At Stark Tower Steve had walked Adrianna to her car. Steve stood near the driver's door with Adrianna, smiling gently to her.
"I'll see you soon Addi," He promised.
"I look forward to it," She assured, stroking his own hand now. Neither wanted to part but both had responsibilities to care for, Adrianna's were more pressing though. She leaned back against the car and stared up at Steve, studying him in the lights that emanated from the lamps and homes and businesses. He seemed to be doing the same. The couple just admired the other, lost in their own little world, neither aware they were inching closer and closer.
Just a moment later their lips met. Adrianna wasn't sure who kissed who first but she was positive it was her. And though he wouldn't admit it later on, so was Steve. Just like his kiss with Peggy and, yes even that blond woman he didn't know the name of, he was stunned. Steve hardly registered what had happened between he and Adrianna but he found himself soon enjoying and returning the contact. Adrianna on the other hand wasn't so stunned she couldn't register anything. She was blissful really, especially when he returned the kiss.
What felt like minutes had only been seconds and they pulled apart, staring at each other like foolish teenagers. Neither knew what to say or do, both just grinned to each other shyly. Finally though their silence broke and Steve stepped away, blushing deeply.
"Bye Steve," Adrianna said softly, still smiling like a fool.
"Bye Addi," He looked at her and waved, stepping away from her car in a slight daze.
Adrianna giggled and got inside her car. She started the engine and as she pulled away, gave a small wave to Steve. She really didn't want to leave him but she had to get home now. They'd see each other again soon.
Steve swallowed softly and watched her leave until the car was out of sight. He stayed a moment longer in pure ecstasy. Steve smiled to himself and headed back into Stark Tower, looking forward to when he and Adrianna would see each other again.
He went back inside the tower and Jarvis took him up to his apartment. Once inside he changed out of his clothes and lay on his bed for a moment. While he pondered over their date he heard his phone ringing. Steve got up and answered it.
"Hello?"
"Hey Cap, so how'd it go?" Stark's voice asked. Steve wasn't sure what time it was there but surely Tony knew it was bed time here.
"I think it went well," Steve relented. Maybe if he answered Stark would leave him alone and he could get some sleep.
Adrianna entered her apartment just ten minutes later. She smiled as she spotted her dad sitting on the couch. Apart from the pillows being rearranged her home looked clean. He must've tidied up while she was gone.
"Hey Kiddo," David greeted his daughter, getting up and walking up to her.
"Hey dad, where's Sadie?" She asked, smiling.
"In her crib. My, you look beautiful. How'd it go Addi?" He asked, hugging his daughter.
"It was fantastic," She smiled happily, returning her father's hug.
"That's great sweetheart," David patted her back and let her go.
"Did he give you that?" He asked, lifting the pendant of the necklace up and admiring it.
"Yeah he did," Adrianna smiled fondly.
"Its beautiful, just like you." David smiled and stepped away.
"I should get going. I don't want to keep Cookie waiting."
"Cookie?" Adrianna asked, confused.
"Oh, didn't I tell you? I got a cat." He said as he headed to the door.
"Daddy, I thought you were allergic to cats." Her father paused for a moment, looking at his daughter's skeptical face.
"You look just like your mother," He said, changing the subject but even though his comment was lighthearted Adrianna still saw her father's flash of sadness. She walked up and hugged him one more time.
"Take care daddy, okay?"
"Always baby girl," he promised her softly.
Once her father left Adrianna turned off the TV and lights and went to her room. She changed into her pajamas and completed her bed time routine. She came back out and looked into the crib. Sadie was sound asleep, snoring just very lightly. Adrianna smiled and reached down. She stroked her daughter's cheek, admiring the soft smile that Sadie gave at her mother's touch.
"Goodnight sweetheart," She whispered softly. Adrianna pulled herself away and went to bed. She lay on the covers, absolutely content. As she lay in bed she let her mind wander, reliving her date with Steve and replaying conversations had. She didn't think about Malcolm or his threats. Adrianna was simply too happy to even consider them. So she fell asleep, undisturbed tonight.
Outside in the dark street a man stood, watching the apartment window before him. The lights were out, indicating that its inhabitant was asleep. Or maybe just trying to. Really he had no clue. He slowly entered the building and went up to the right floor. There was usually a doorman on duty, but once one clocked out the other had to make the journey here. So the man took his time going upstairs, he had about fifteen minutes before he'd need to leave.
He found the right floor, the right door. He stared at the blue door before him and smirked softly. Adrianna always liked blue. He looked down at the flower in his hand. He remembered how she liked flowers, that she was able to identify nearly all of them. It may take her a while but she'll figure out its meaning soon enough.
He st the orange bloom on her doormat and then as quickly as he came, he left. He made it back to his car, satisfied with a job well done.
