25: mettre son grain de sel : to offer an unsolicited opinion [literal : to put in one's grain of salt]
Bucky wanted to do something special for Lola. Even after their little heart-to-heart, he could tell she was still feeling a little down about herself. Luckily, he had three sisters at his disposal, two of which had experience with pregnancy and children, and so he had consulted them. Both Laura and May had confirmed that struggling with body image during pregnancy was a real issue and at times, downright terrifying. He had been greatly surprised to hear that. He, like most men, had grown up under the strict impression that pregnancy was something all women aspired to, loving and cherishing every second of it. He had no idea it could in fact, be the complete opposite.
Bucky felt a little better as he questioned his sisters in a bid to further understand what he should do. He came to the conclusion that he would reassure Lola whenever he could, and constantly remind her that she was beautiful and shower her with as much love and affection as she would allow. He also decided that he would put together this little babymoon that Doctor Strange had suggested. It would do them both some good to get away from everything and rejuvenate. He loved the idea of being away from prying eyes, the pair of them just soaking up each other's presence and simply being.
It would have to wait until after the baby shower that Natasha was throwing that weekend though. Lola's best friend had considerably warmed towards both him and the baby, making every effort to be supportive and understanding. So, when she had insisted on organising and executing a baby shower, they had happily agreed.
Dipping his paintbrush into the can of white paint, Bucky delicately dragged it over the window frame. He had already painted the walls, finding the process therapeutic. If he had to explain it, it helped him feel more like a father, preparing for the baby's arrival and honestly, it gave him something to do. He supposed it was different for women, not that he was complaining in the slightest. Pregnancy was beautiful in its own respect and it only made him admire the women in his life that much more. But, he wouldn't really have a chance to bond with the baby until it was actually born, so until then, this was the closest thing.
Or at least, it was, until the one day that Lola had perched herself on a large box and insisted he take off his shirt whilst painting. He was unnerved at first, but, he had to admit, the seductive gleam in her eyes had been well worth it.
The paintbrush dropped with a clatter when a scream echoed from above. Almost tripping on the newspapers laid out on the floor, he cursed as he ran out the room, taking the stairs two at a time and throwing the bedroom door open. Lola stood in front of the mirror, her t-shirt pulled up and she spun around to face him.
"I have a bump!" she announced, and Bucky almost collapsed in the doorway.
"Please, don't ever scream like that again." he breathed, rubbing his eyes. "Wait, d'you say you have a bump?"
Bucky bounded over and studied her stomach, finding that she did indeed have a bump. It was small, but it was there and it was rounded just firmly enough that it couldn't be mistaken as the result of one too many burritos (Lola's current craving). Seeking her silent permission, his heart thumped when she smiled at him, and he reached out, his hands gently placed on her soft belly. She squirmed, but was quick to reassure him it was ticklishness and not discomfort.
Bucky let his hands linger there for a moment, allowing his happiness to wrap him in a little bubble. He didn't know how to describe the moment, except for sheer wonder.
"You're really showing." he mumbled, as if saying the words aloud would help his brain register.
His voice was quiet, almost too quiet, but, Lola heard him anyway, and she smiled, placing her hands atop his.
"It feels real now." he said, smiling too.
"Yes, yes, I suppose it really does." she agreed quietly.
"You look more beautiful than ever." he smiled, leaning down to press a kiss to her lips.
"You're just saying that because technically, now I could sit on you and crush you." she scoffed, folding her arms.
"No," laughed Bucky. "But, you let me know anytime you wanna sit on me, sweetheart."
"Hm, maybe later." she winked, pulling her t-shirt down again. "But, you have to leave for work soon. Let me make you your coffee."
"You really don't have to." offered Bucky. "I know coffee is your lifeline, and it sucks you can't have it right now."
"Let me live vicariously through you."
Despite being into her sixteenth week of pregnancy, Lola was desperately intent on keeping up certain traditions, namely, making Bucky coffee every morning, just as she had always done. He had pleaded with her not to, particularly on days where he needed to wake up early for work, but, she refused in her typically stubborn manner. She poured him a cup when he rejoined her in the kitchen, dressed appropriately for a day of painting in a pair of old jeans and a t-shirt dashed with colour.
"I'll see you later." he smiled, kissing her goodbye just as Jarvis made his entrance.
"Don't forget, it's date night." she giggled, squirming when he nuzzled his nose into the crook of her neck.
"Wouldn't miss it for the world."
Lola propped up her phone against the salt grinder, angling it until Jarvis could see what she was doing. He nodded his encouragement, his wife Ana peering over his shoulder with a warm smile.
"Yes, very good." he said. "Now, sprinkle on the grated cheese and pop it under the grill so it reddens nicely."
Lola did as he said, taking extra care to ensure the cheese coated the top of the lasagne evenly, before putting it back in the oven with a tray of garlic bread. She pulled off her oven gloves, hanging them over the oven handle and picking up her phone again.
"Alright, so that's the lasagne and the garlic bread." she listed. "The salad's already prepared, the Eton Mess is in the fridge, and I've set the table."
"I'm very proud of you." sniffed Jarvis, wiping a tear.
"Oh, Jarvis. Don't you dare cry! Because I'll start crying and goodness knows how long it will take me to stop!"
"Don't make her cry!" admonished Ana, poking Jarvis in the shoulder. "She's taken such care to dress up for him!"
"Do you think he'll like it?"
"If he didn't want to put a baby in you before, he'll want to now." giggled Ana, and Jarvis spluttered at her to stop being so obscene.
Lola had spent ages getting ready. It had been months since she had dressed up for Bucky, properly anyway. Sure, he had seen her dressed to the nines on New Year's, but she didn't have a baby bump then, and she was suddenly so conscious of how to dress it. After a great deal of toing and froing, she decided on a navy wrap dress. It had a feminine silhouette and she had to admit, pregnancy had its perks as the kimono-esque top accentuated her bigger cleavage enough to add a sexy twist to the dress. She had gone for a pair of heels as well, not too high, but just right for the dress.
The front door slammed, and Bucky's voice echoed through the house. Lola quickly turned back to her phone.
"That's him." she whispered urgently. "Thank you, Jarvis. Thank you, Ana."
"Good luck, dear!" chorused Ana.
"Enjoy your evening, Miss. Stark!" sang Jarvis.
Lola pressed the red button, throwing her phone in the potato basket just as Bucky entered the kitchen. Her breath caught in her throat at the sight. He had left that morning looking scruffy and unkempt, but, he must have taken a change of clothes as he stood there, sharply dressed in black jeans, a black and white polka dot shirt and his favourite black leather jacket. Coupled with his (now growing) luscious hair and beard, he looked devilishly handsome, and it took everything in her not to jump on him.
"Hi." he said, a soft smile crossing his face.
"Hello, love." she smiled back, crossing the kitchen to greet him properly.
"Wow, you look beautiful." he marvelled, eyes raking over her.
"Looks like I'm not the only one who got dressed up." she said coyly, stepping close to him and dragging a hand down his chest. "Definite bad boy."
"Yeah? You like that kinda thing?" he teased, turning pink despite the flirtatious tone.
"What girl doesn't want a good boy that's bad just for her?"
"Uh, not that I don't appreciate bein' seduced, but, what's that smell?"
"The lasagne!"
Thankfully, only the edges were a little burnt, the rest a cheesy, bubbling perfection, if a little overflowing on the cheese. Bucky took the heavy dish from Lola's hands and set it on the breakfast bar, and she brought the garlic bread over.
"Did you make this?" he asked, standing agape at the delicious smelling dinner before him.
"Jarvis might have helped a little." she admitted, chewing her lip nervously. "I've been practicing all week, you wouldn't believe how many lasagnes I had to throw out before I got it right."
"Why'd you go to all the trouble? You should be restin', sweetheart, takin' care o' yourself." he reprimanded her gently.
"You do so much for me, I wanted to pamper you for once." she reasoned. "Besides, lasagne is the first dinner we had together in this house."
"You tried to make a roast dinner didn't you?" he grinned knowingly
"Yes, and it's so bloody difficult to serve crispy roast potatoes at the same time as a leg of lamb." she groaned, earning a hearty laugh.
"No, this is perfect." he said earnestly, pulling her into a hug. "I love it. Thank you. I got a little somethin' too, actually."
Bucky snatched up a bottle he had abandoned earlier and held it up as if he were presenting some great prize.
"I know you can't drink, so, I got some sparkling red grape juice." he said proudly, brandishing the bottle.
"Oh, you shouldn't have, you're spoiling me." she winked, as he pulled out the bar stool for her.
"You know, we might actually have to use that dinin' table now." he winced, as she clambered up.
"I'm fine for now, thank you." she sighed. "How was your day, love?"
"Uh, let's see." he thought aloud, pouring them both a glass of the sparkling grape juice. "Tweedledum and Tweedledee asked when you'd be modelling for another life drawing class again."
"Did you tell them I was too busy getting knocked up by you?" she quipped, heaping a large portion of lasagne in Bucky's plate.
"I knew I married you for a reason."
Bucky grinned and leant over, pressing a chaste kiss to her lips, and Lola melted into him. He looked and smelt so good that she wrapped a hand around his nape when he pulled back, unwilling to let him go just yet. He chuckled against her lips, the sound rumbling in his chest and she sighed happily, shifting closer as he tangled a hand in her hair. Warmth spread through her body, as they slowly started to remember how this usually went. And then, just as it was beginning, it ended.
"Dinner's gettin' cold." Bucky chuckled.
"I don't care."
"I do." he laughed. "You did all this."
"There's something else I'd rather do, right now."
Bucky laughed shortly, rubbing the back of his neck as he turned a furious shade of pink, but, his eyes held the promise of later and with a disappointed huff, she sat back in her seat properly and poked at her lasagne.
"If it helps, I'm glad to see you're feelin' better." he offered with a cheesy smile.
Then his eyes narrowed.
"You didn't spend all day cookin', did you? Did you rest enough?"
His gaze flew down to her stomach and she quickly straightened up, a no-nonsense expression plastered across her face.
"I have a rule about date night. No talk of pregnancy or the baby. Date night is- don't look at me like that!"
"But, why?" he asked, thoroughly perplexed.
Lola exhaled and swivelled her chair round, reaching over and encasing his hand in hers. Bucky eyes were clouded with confusion, and she flashed him a reassuring smile as she tried to explain her reasoning.
"I just want us to have some time for ourselves." she said, trying to find the right words. "Once a week, where it's just us. I love you and I want to be with you, and I don't want us to lose sight of that."
A relieved smile flickered on Bucky's face.
"This," she continued, squeezing his hand. "Us, we're just as important. Not every waking moment of our relationship needs to be defined by the baby."
"You really are somethin' else." he smiled fondly, squeezing back.
"So, we're in agreement? No baby talk? Just flirting?"
"I mean, I'll try." agreed Bucky, bursting out in laughter. "The flirtin', I mean. I make no promises if I suck at it."
"Oh, please." she snorted. "You can turn on the charm when you want to."
"Only for you, sweetheart." he winked.
Lola giggled at that and Bucky looked very pleased with himself as he dug into his lasagne. They were both pleasantly surprised at how tasty it actually was, but, ever the gentleman, Bucky showered her with compliments, insisting he always had complete faith in her cooking capabilities. It was, of course, a blatant lie, but, she accepted the praise nonetheless.
It was a relief when she finally kicked off her high heels to slide on to the couch beside Bucky, and it didn't escape her attention that his eyes glided over her bare legs when she cosied up beside him. She heard his sharp intake of breath when she placed a hand on his thigh, biting back a smirk as he hurriedly settled on whatever film he could find.
Naturally, the film was a complete ruse, but, Lola made the most of her opportunity. A little sigh escaped her lips when Bucky draped an arm over her shoulders, and she took the invitation to sidle closer, her hand moving further and further up his thigh. And then, when she stuck her chin out, he cupped it gently, tilting her face up to meet his.
The kiss was soft and gentle, slow yet perfect and she knew he really wanted it, wanted her and she let all the love and the passion that he poured into that kiss overwhelm her. She kissed him back more urgently, neither of them feeling particularly patient any longer. His arms slid around her waist, pulling her on top of him and she moved her legs so she could straddle his lap more comfortably, gasping when she felt his growing desire.
"Is- is this okay?" he murmured, suddenly fearful as he glanced down at her belly.
Bucky got his answer when she leant forward and captured his mouth in a kiss that devoured him. It was messy and sloppy, but he kissed back just as hungrily, and she clutched his shoulders to anchor herself as his hands slid over her dress. She was panting when he pulled away, scraping his teeth along her earlobe and then down her neck, reminding her that he knew each and every spot that would make her shiver and moan. She was a writhing mess by the time his hands tugged at straps that held her dress together.
"I was supposed to be seducing you."
Her somewhat cross tone made him chuckle lowly.
"And you did a very good job." he replied, nipping at her collarbone.
Her sassy retort came out as a moan when her dress fell apart and his hands finally grazed over her hot skin. She squirmed, her skin going up in flames when she saw him watch with awe as she rocked against him, slowly, languidly, growling out loud when he realised she was teasing him purposefully. She giggled mischievously, leaning down to flick her tongue across the soft patch of skin by his ear.
"You're so cute when you think you've won." Lola whispered, delighting in the way he shuddered beneath her.
Bucky's eyes fluttered shut as she kissed her way down his neck, her fingers making quick work of his buttons. His fingers squeezed at her hips desperately, urging her to move faster and she complied, her own fingers scrabbling at whatever inch of his skin she could find. The air felt hot and heavy, her soft moans quickly followed by his low ones, and she was sure she had never been so turned before. This needy or this hot for someone.
She moved faster still, uncaring that they were both still clothed or on the couch because he looked utterly wrecked in that moment and it only pushed her closer to the edge, his name falling from her lips mindlessly. His lips found her ear, whispering sweet nothings and the husky growl of his voice told her he was just as close as she was.
She came without warning, her fingernails biting into his shoulders and her head falling back, the sight tipping him over the edge, too. Only when her head lulled forward, her hot breath tickling the crook of his neck did he reach up a shaky hand and stroke down her back gently.
"You alright, sweetheart?" Bucky asked breathlessly.
He sounded so genuinely concerned, that Lola lifted her head and grinned tiredly at him, kissing him sweetly and nodding because her brain had seemingly turned to jelly. He laughed at that and shifted, so that they were a little more comfortable.
"How do you look so pretty?" she blurted, and he blushed madly.
It felt like an oversimplification, but, he was pretty. His hair was a tousled mess and his eyes were bright, his smile lopsided but charming as always. She traced the lines of his wolf tattoo, enjoying the way all that muscle felt under his hot skin.
"I'm not pretty, you are." he said shyly, stroking her hair.
Lola replied with a non-committal sound, suddenly feeling very conscious. Patting down her hair, she pulled the dress around her again and stood up, giggling when her legs wobbled.
"I think I'm better off without these right now." she laughed, hooking her heels on the ends of her fingers.
"I meant it." said Bucky, from his position on the couch. "You're gorgeous. Baby bump and all."
It was her turn to blush, as he stood up and held her in his arms.
"I love you." he said sincerely.
"I love you, too."
"Are you sure you're okay with this?" asked Natasha for the millionth time.
The redhead was in the process of arranging some balloons so they were placed in symmetrical positions all around the living room. Natasha had really gone all out. Silver and gold garlands adorned the walls to match the ivory balloons. On one corner of the dining table there was a selection of sparkling juices and fresh fruit, which she had dubbed 'the mum-osa bar'. An assortment of teas, complete with teapots of hot water, stood next to the cold drinks whilst the rest of the table groaned under the weight of finger sandwiches, vol-au-vents, scones, and mini pastries.
Jarvis was busy bringing trays of teacups and saucers back and forth from the kitchen, humming happily to himself and rather content with being tasked with catering per Natasha's request.
Meanwhile, Bucky had been ushered out by Bruce to go collect the cupcakes and macarons.
Lola herself was perched in an armchair, caught between enjoying the pamper treatment and disgruntled at not being allowed to move. She rolled her eyes at Natasha.
"Yes, Nat, for the hundredth time, I'm just fine." she repeated boredly. "So long as no-one gets handsy with my bump, I'm looking forward to this baby shower you've lovingly organised."
"Aw, you're so nice when you're pregnant." cooed Natasha. "I'm so glad you're past the cranky stage."
"You can thank the hormones for that one." she snorted, admiring Natasha's handiwork. "I feel so emotional all the time, it's like everything is just so wonderful I feel the need to cry about it."
"Please don't, I spent ten minutes perfecting your winged eyeliner." threatened Natasha, brandishing a finger.
"I'll do my best." promised Lola. "Thank you for helping me get ready. I look so pretty even though I feel like an elephant."
"Are you kidding?" scoffed Natasha. "You're gorgeous, pregnancy becomes you, honey."
Lola looked down at her dress. It was crafted from pure silk and had a subtle triangle printed all over it, finishing in a fluttering handkerchief hem. The best thing about it was how the top was almost a separate piece altogether, like a flowing camisole that was just loose enough, only showing off the slightest hint of her baby bump. She was still getting used to dressing to accommodate her growing belly, and whilst it was certainly the reason why the little celebration was taking place, she didn't like the idea of it being the centre of attention.
The front door opened, Bucky and Bruce entering with arms laden with big white boxes. Jarvis rushed forward, taking a few before they toppled over and caused a disaster. Natasha patted Lola's shoulder and went to help, leaving her and Bucky alone.
"Hey," he grinned, offering his hand as she made to stand. "You look real pretty."
"Thank you, love." she smiled, smoothing out her dress and nodding her approval at his attire. "Well, I can see why I'm pregnant. You look dashing."
Bucky choked, and promptly turned pink, glancing down at his attire. It was a simple navy suit, the jacket unbuttoned to reveal a light blue shirt underneath. He had left the topmost buttons undone, and she bit her lip at the merest glimpse of his chest, before looking back up into his eyes, a playful smirk on her face.
"Wow, sixteen weeks pregnant and you're still a better flirt than me."
"Mm, you make it easy when you look this good." she purred, inching closer.
"Oh, gross. Get a room." gagged Natasha, putting down a platter of neatly stacked macarons.
Bucky blushed harder and hid his face in his hands, whilst Bruce scolded his girlfriend.
"Imagine how I feel, Miss. Natasha." pipped Jarvis, looking up from the cupcakes.
"You are all so ridiculous," whined Lola, crossing her arms. "Acting as if you don't flirt."
"We do, just not every waking second." argued Natasha, grinning at Bruce.
"Well, excuse me for wanting to let my husband know how attractive he is." she replied snootily, jutting her chin out.
"She really did make it easy for you to knock her up, huh?" teased Natasha, and Bucky groaned.
Lola couldn't help but laugh at her friends' retreating backs, as they disappeared back into the kitchen. Bucky had buried his face in the crook of her neck, and she could feel how hot his face was with embarrassment.
"You know, you're going to get a lot of that today with Natasha, my dad and all my other friends all crammed into one room for hours."
"Oh God, what did I marry into?" he joked, lifting his face.
"Oh please, you love it."
"No, I love you." he said charmingly, planting a kiss on her cheek.
Lola giggled and wrapped her arms around his neck, hugging him as closely and comfortably as she could. Her bump wasn't getting in the way as much just yet, but, it was big enough for them both to notice that there was something between them, quite literally.
"So," said Bucky. "It's the first time our families are meetin'."
"Are you worried?"
"Nah." he smiled. "Are you?"
"Well, there's no alcohol, so I think we'll be safe."
Half an hour later, the doorbell rang, signalling the arrival of their guests. Bucky's family made it first, Winnie's eyes widening in admiration as she stepped into the vast hallway. She was very impressed by the time Bucky finished giving her the grand tour, particularly taken by the library and modern kitchen appliances.
Jarvis also made quite the impression, and George happily stated he was glad to know that the new parents would have such a fine gentleman around to help. Jarvis was positively glowing after such a compliment, and proceeded to chatter away with George like they were old friends.
Peter, Pietro and Wanda had all screamed excitedly at the little den Natasha had thoughtfully arranged in the television room for them. She had laid out a selection of Disney films, set up a Nintendo Wii with Mario Kart and created a pillow fort filled to the brim with various toys and crafts for them to stay busy with.
Steve, Peggy and Sam were the next to arrive, followed in quick succession by the rest of Lola's friends. And fashionably late as always, was Tony, who was amongst the last with Pepper and Rhodey in tow.
"Mr. Tony, it's so nice to finally meet you." cooed Winnie.
Tony was a little taken aback when she pulled him into a crushing hug, but, he hid his surprise well, and patted her on the back genially, before being engulfed in another embrace by George.
"You must be the Barnes'." boomed Tony. "I can see you all won the gene lottery. Especially you ma'am."
Winnie giggled like a schoolgirl and Lola rolled her eyes, giving her father a prod.
"Oh my God, you're pregnant!" he cried and Pepper gasped.
"Tony!"
"Right, sorry. Nice to see you, honey, you're glowing." he said smoothly, kissing Lola's cheeks. "We got you something!"
Natasha appeared out of nowhere, directing Tony to add his gift to the small mountain in the corner of the room. She had a plan for the day, and no-one was going to ruin it. Seeing as this was a non-traditional baby shower, to fit in with the theme of their non-traditional relationship, Natasha kicked off the festivities with a little game for the men.
They were all handed a baby bottle, and Bucky shook his, trying to determine why on God's green earth there were eleven men holding baby bottles in the midst of an elegantly planned party.
"Is this… beer?" asked Steve, sniffing at the teat of his bottle.
"Nicely guessed." praised Natasha. "The object of the game is to be the first to finish your beer."
"You want us to drink beer from baby bottles?" puzzled Thor.
"I personally am of the opinion that this is not gentlemanly." said T'Challa, and the women booed.
"Where's your sportsmanship?" mocked Peggy, and they all grumbled.
"Come on, guys." cheered Tony spiritedly. "It's just beer!"
Thor added a rousing cheer, too and suddenly, they were all on board. Pumped and ready, they were barely ten seconds in when Sam grimaced.
"This is so slow!" he pouted.
"Is it even coming out?" questioned Bucky, shaking his bottle upside down.
"Come on boys, Clint's in the lead!" clapped Laura.
"How are you doin' that?" gaped Tony, as Clint gave them all the thumbs up.
Clint won in the end, and it was put down to his knowledge of baby bottles and feeding. He was rather pleased with himself, puffing his chest out proudly. That was, until Natasha handed him his prize. A pacifier she had spray painted gold. Lola burst out laughing as Bucky sat down beside her, grumpily muttering about the stupid game. He perked up when Natasha announced there was a game for the women, too. Although, it had to be abandoned when Darcy eyed the prize with beady eyes.
"A spa bag?" she scoffed, prodding the bottle of wine, bath bomb and Netflix gift card. "What are meant to do with that? Get drunk, put on Magic Mike and touch ourselves?"
The room fell deathly silent, until Sam added his two cents.
"We should give that to Bucky," he sniggered. "He can use it when the baby comes 'cause he won't be getting any for a while!"
Natasha decided it was time to move on. It wasn't long before Lola was knee-deep in carefully wrapped presents and assortments of gift bags, and she found tears welling up in her eyes as she looked around the room full of people.
"You honestly didn't have to go to all this trouble." she smiled, and was immediately met with scoffs and rebuttals.
Despite the onset of overwhelming emotions, Lola did enjoy being the centre of attention and it wasn't all too long before the presents had been shelled of their wrappings and neatly piled on the coffee table in front of her. She had (reluctantly) let Bucky open a few; his eyes twinkling mischievously because he knew how much she really wanted to open them all for herself but stopped herself before it became a reincarnation of Monica Geller opening wedding presents without Chandler.
To be blunt, Lola had been worried about the presents. Over the last week, since the nursery had been painted and various furnishings ordered for it, she had a very precise idea in her head (and on her Pinterest board) of the 'aesthetic', as she called it. From the walls right down to the baby's clothes, toys and everything in between, she knew what she wanted it all to be. She was worried that people would give her horrible presents, with clothes that didn't match or shoes in the wrong colour. Yet, everything was quite simply perfect.
From adorable little Nike sneakers (Sam was very proud of himself for finding such a gift) to a giant fluffy teddy bear (from Tony, of course); there really wasn't a present she didn't like. Winnie had knitted the softest blanket, embroidering hers and George's initials in the corner so the baby would always have a part of them.
Rebecca had put together a hamper of treats for Lola, declaring that the mother-to-be deserved a little something, too.
"It's all organic and completely safe for the baby." she explained, pointing out the various lotions and potions. "That one's for stretch marks. This essential oil is relaxing for expectant women."
"Oh, dude, this stuff is supposed to be great for your nipples." chirped Darcy, plucking a bottle from the basket.
Tony spat out his tea, spraying it all over Rhodey's arm and proceeded to cough incessantly. The women all giggled as Jarvis rushed over with a stack of napkins. Bucky had slowly coloured pink, and Clint raised a forefinger, shaking it from side to side.
"Oh no, Papa." he laughed. "You better get comfortable with hearing about your wife's body."
"Excuse me, father of the expecting mother sitting right here." interjected Tony.
"Hm, you better get to used to it, too, grandpa." said Clint knowingly, licking frosting off his fork.
Tony muttered under his breath, accepting a refill of his tea from T'Challa.
"Moving on." said Natasha loudly, prodding another present forward.
Lola accepted it gratefully, noisily peeling off the sparkly wrapping paper to reveal a set of muslin cloths neatly tied together with a silver ribbon. Trish apologised for the simplicity, but apparently they were a crucial item for any new parents. As it happened, they matched perfectly with the fluffy baby towelling robes Gamora and Quill had gotten them, and Lola suddenly cottoned on.
"You shared my Pinterest board with them, didn't you?" she guessed, whipping around to face Bucky.
Bucky offered her a toothy smile, slurping his tea noisily much to everyone's amusement. Pleasantly surprised, she continued to tackle the pile of presents. By the time she had unwrapped a breast pump, pretty nursing bras and a bottle of lube ("So you can make more pretty babies after this one, duh!" said Darcy), Tony had voiced his discomfort, threatening anyone that dared to soil the image of his innocent baby girl.
"Do we get to place bets on if it's a boy or girl?" boomed Thor, rubbing his hands together eagerly.
"It's a boy." said Tony and Bucky in unison.
"You already know?" goggled Pepper, clutching her chest.
"No." replied Lola boredly, nibbling on a macaron delicately. "They both refuse to accept it could be a girl."
"Oh, but surely you can tell." chimed Winnie, sipping her tea delicately.
"Uh, how?" laughed Bucky in disbelief.
"It's easy." said Darcy, peering at Lola. "Are your nipples really dark?"
Both Bucky and Tony spat out their tea, and Winnie gave Darcy an odd look.
"Are nipples a common topic of discussion at baby showers?" Thor asked and Jane tittered, before clearing her throat and shaking her head.
"What I meant," said Winnie loudly. "Was that you can tell by the way you're carrying."
"Oh my God, not that again." whined May.
"Ma, please." begged Rebecca.
"Oh, hush!" scolded Winnie, frowning at her daughters.
"What do you mean by the way I'm carrying?" asked a bemused Lola, and Bucky groaned.
"No, I wanna hear this." remarked Tony, not even batting an eyelid when Peter shoved his Lego Star Wars X-Wing at him.
Winnie smiled triumphantly and set down her teacup.
"If your bump is low down, in your pelvic area, then it's a boy. High up, it's a girl." she explained and Laura shook her head.
"That theory didn't work for me." said Laura. "You were wrong."
"I was half-wrong." corrected Winnie. "I didn't know you were having twins when I guessed."
"What if it's not a boy or a girl?" piped Wanda, climbing into Bucky's lap. "I hope it's a unicorn."
Lola burst into a peal of giggles, looking at the little girl with love. Wanda didn't seem to understand why everyone found her wish so funny, looking to her uncle for an explanation.
"If it's a unicorn, you're gonna have to babysit, okay?" he chuckled, straightening the bows in her hair.
Wanda was appeased by his response, and slid off his lap in a hunt for more cupcakes.
"She's gonna be real disappointed when she finds out it's a boy." said Bucky, laughing still.
"You don't know that it's a boy." sang Lola, for what was probably the millionth time.
"I'm with Romeo on this one." pipped Tony, saluting Bucky.
"Boys are the best." quipped Quill, high-fiving Thor.
"Oh, but girls have such nicer clothes." interjected Peggy.
"All the pretty dresses and sparkly little shoes." agreed Jane.
"Lola, what do you want to have?" asked Pepper loudly, glaring at everyone.
Lola smiled gratefully and Pepper flashed her a quick wink. Accepting a refill of elderflower presse, she exchanged a smile with Bucky.
"I don't know." she answered honestly. "As long as the baby is healthy and happy, it could be a unicorn for all I care."
Bucky broke out in a soppy grin, blushing at his mother's coos when he pecked Lola's cheek. Her friends were nowhere near as subtle, catcalling and wolf-whistling until Pepper gave them such a steely stare they decided it was time to get going. Slowly, they all began clearing out, saying their goodbyes until it was just the two families who remained.
"Your friends are very supportive," commented Winnie, patting Lola's hand. "Darcy is… a character."
"I'm so sorry if she offended you." she apologised. "She has a very brusque manner, and doesn't always know when to tone it back."
"Well, yes, that's one way to put it." muttered Winnie. "But, I sense it comes from a good heart."
"Thank you for coming today. I can't tell you how much it means to me."
"Oh, nonsense. I told you the first time I met you, you're family now."
Lola glanced over at Bucky, who was chatting animatedly with Tony and Rhodey. He looked up briefly, catching her eye and grinning widely, his own smile sparking her own.
"Yes, we are family."
There was a loud bang from the television room, followed by giggles from Wanda and Pietro, making everyone jerk up. Laura stood up abruptly, apologising and thrusting Nathaniel into Lola's arms and rushing out the room with Clint in tow. Nathaniel blew a raspberry and attempted to stand up, his chubby little feet stamping up and down in her lap.
Lola smiled weakly at the eight month old. It was so easy when it was Nathaniel, because he wasn't her child. She could coo at him and tickle his tummy, feed him and cradle him. And then, she could hand him back to his parents and carry on with her life. But, being a mother? That was a full time job and she wouldn't have the luxury of passing the baby off to someone else if things got too much.
When Laura returned, Nathaniel immediately squealed for her with outstretched arms and Lola wondered if she would be as good a mother as Bucky's sisters were. They were so loving, kind and patient.
"Hey, you okay there?" murmured Bucky, dropping on to the couch beside her.
"Yes, yes, I'm fine, love." she replied, as he slid his hand into hers.
"I'm gettin' real good at callin' your bluff." he whispered and she cracked a smile.
"Damn it." she whispered back and he laughed.
"You're gonna be great, you know." he said reassuringly, pressing a light kiss to her knuckles.
"How could you even know that's what I was thinking?"
Bucky winked exaggeratedly and she rolled her eyes affectionately.
"Alright, I think that's our cue." announced Rebecca. "I think we've burdened the parents-to-be with our company enough for one day."
With promises to call if she needed anything, and reassurances that Bucky was taking great care of her, Lola shut the door, breathing in the cool air and instantly relaxing in the peace. Kicking off her shoes, she happily accepted Bucky's hug, nuzzling her face into his chest and inhaled deeply in his scent.
"You okay, sweetheart?" he asked soothingly, kissing the top of her head.
"It's been a long day." she breathed, wrapping her arms around him.
Bucky hummed his agreement.
"Let's get you to bed."
Slowly, they began their ascent and when they reached the top floor, Bucky kissed her sweetly, bidding her good night. But, Lola grabbed his wrist and he eyed her curiously. She tried to hold back her smile, but, it was impossible, and she found herself grinning from ear to ear.
"I thought you could sleep here tonight."
"Not that I'm complainin', but, why?"
"I'm glad that I said yes to this baby shower." she mused, shifting her feet. "I guess it reminded me that even though I'm scared, I'm so lucky to have you and that I love you."
She was so occupied with wincing at herself for being so soppy, she barely noticed the enormous smile that erupted on Bucky's face, only daring to meet his gaze when he cupped her face gently. He looked so genuinely happy, she couldn't help but smile back and they both stood there, grinning and blushing like lovesick teenagers.
Promising to return after brushing his teeth, Bucky descended with a definite spring in his step and she giggled as she changed out of her dress and took off her make-up. He was sitting up in bed when she emerged from the bathroom, clad only in a pair of black pyjama pants. He set his book aside and pulled back the blankets so she could climb in, immediately settling down beside her. They lay quietly for a while, facing each other.
Lola admired Bucky in the dim light. He was truly a work of art, every part of him impressive. His broad shoulders, the toned muscles of his arms, the hunk of defined lines that was his chest. He blushed under her gaze, and she giggled, running a hand along his strong jawline, his beard peppered here and there with sparse white hairs. She couldn't explain it, but something about that was inexplicably attractive.
Bucky shifted closer, placing a hand over her belly. His eyes widened in alarm when she wriggled and she quickly reached out her own hand to keep his in place.
"It's okay." she soothed. "I'm just still getting used to this, that's all."
Bucky's eye twitched, and the blue irises were suddenly filled with unmistakable love and heat. Her breath caught in her throat when he leaned forward, capturing her lips in a hot, deep kiss. She didn't resist when he gently pushed her on to her back, not that she could have even if she wanted to. She knew this wasn't some quickie for him, but she desperately wanted him to continue and faster.
He hovered over her, propped up on his arms so his weight was kept off her. Her hands found their way to his shoulders, nails digging in when his tongue chased hers. She whined her displeasure when he pulled away, his lips trailing soft kisses down her neck and then back up again, his gaze fiery.
"Let me make you feel good." he whispered, lips brushing hers.
Bucky's hand skimmed over her side, and her reply came out as an incoherent moan when he pushed her camisole up, his lips landing on her exposed skin. She arched helplessly into his attention, as his hand dropped lower, landing on her thigh. His fingers crept up slowly, and by the time they reached the hem of her shorts her breath was coming out in short gasps.
Lola felt more conscious than she ever had before, lying there under Bucky as he tossed her pyjamas aside. She could feel her skin prickling with heat as his eyes raked over every inch of her, and she gnawed at her bottom lip. But, there wasn't so much as a hint of dislike in his eyes. In fact, it was quite the opposite and he let her know as much when he leant down and kissed her again.
And then he was kissing his way down her body, and she was squirming and grasping at his hair, tugging at the ruffled brown locks, giggling when he groaned. Thank God he's not in his own room was the last coherent thought that ran through Lola's mind before Bucky's lips began their assault right where she wanted it most. It might have been minutes or even mere seconds, but her hips were soon lifting up off the bed to meet the rhythm of his tongue. She vaguely registered the whimpers and cries of Bucky's names coming from her mouth. He teased and tasted her, and just as the agony of being on the edge became exquisitely unbearable, he ran his tongue over her one more time, and she finally saw stars.
Bucky stayed there until she began to come down from her high, pressing a chaste kiss to her belly before sliding up the bed.
"You okay?" he murmured against her lips, and she laughed shortly.
"Okay?" she echoed. "You give me one of the best orgasms of my life and then ask me if I'm okay?"
Bucky chuckled, more to himself than her, and lay down beside her. Lola sighed in content, feeling herself starting to drift as he pulled her close, her back to his chest and one of his hands over her stomach. She could feel every inch of him, and she wriggled at his swell of desire poking the small of her back. And even though she was exhausted and perfectly satiated, a renewed wave of arousal washed over her.
"Bucky?"
"Ssh, go to sleep." he whispered, his hot breath tickling her ear.
"But, you." were the only words she could manage.
"Another time." he said, his voice husky with sleep. "That was for you."
Lola stilled, wanting to cry at how sweet he was. He must have been very tired as his breathing evened out very quickly and all she could do was wonder how he could sleep when clearly his body had other priorities. She thought about waking him, but, she felt so warm and fuzzy lying there in the cocoon of his arms. And anyway, his birthday was coming up soon. She would just have to show her gratitude then.