ym4yum1: Haha I never stop admiring him... And yeah, daddy Steve is super cute. I love writing him!
Coka Cookie Cola: This whole swimming thing came about from a comic I saw awhile back. This has nothing to do with the comic but I figured some pool antics could never hurt, unless Tony's involved. I'm glad you enjoyed it! :D
The Red Dove: Aw thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it and heheh I love it too.
Cerulean89: I'm glad you liked it! And, just to reference Doctor Who here, ...spoilers. ;)
NerdyPassionLoves: Aw thanks so much!
memo bonafide: Thanks a lot, I really appreciate your review!
Regina14: I'm glad you loved it, and again I can't say when because spoilers. I'm glad you like Sadie! I don't know where the Malcolm drama will lead us next, I have a lot of "plot" points I want to reach and if he comes up in them then yeah we'll see XD
byakuya7309: Thanks a bunch!
Lollypops101: I'm glad you liked it :D
VampWolf92: And I'm glad you think so :)
Disclaimer: I don't own the Avengers, just borrowing. I hope you guys enjoy this next chapter, maybe now you'll see what I've got planned. Now... on to some wedding shenanigans?
"Oh Pepper, you look stunning!" "So gorgeous." "Amazing." "Very beautiful."
Pepper had just stepped out of the dressing room, having finished getting ready for her big day. Adrianna and the other bridesmaids had eagerly begun complimenting her, as they had done all day. Adrianna smiled as she walked up to her friend and embraced her with a quick but warm hug.
"How are you feeling now?" She asked her. Pepper had looked rather calm all morning but now Adrianna could see the anxiety setting in.
"I'm excited, still, but really nervous now. You know how Tony is. I just hope he's still standing there." She laughed lightly but her shaking hands showed the depth of her concern.
"He will be, and he's going to be very glad to see you." Wendy assured, smiling brightly. Pepper gave her friend a grateful glance and then took a deep breath.
"You're right, I've got nothing to worry about. Besides, he likes all the attention." This time everyone laughed. Natasha glanced at the time and stood up.
"Alright ladies, as fun as this all has been I think it's time we get started." She gave a brief smile as she started for the door. Everyone gave Pepper more compliments and well wishes and left the room, all except Adrianna whom Pepper stopped. She grabbed her friend's arm gently.
"Adrianna?" Pepper looked at her friend worriedly. Adrianna stopped and smiled calmly, hoping her friend was okay.
"Yeah Pepper?" She asked, placing her hand on Pepper's.
"Were you this... scared when you got married?" She asked, quietly. Adrianna felt a surge of relief when she asked that. That was something she could answer for her friend.
"I was. I felt so excited but so terrified. I remember thinking 'What if he doesn't love me', 'What if we're making a mistake'."
"How did you convince yourself you were making the right decision?" Pepper asked.
"Well... you kind of have to take that risk. You'll never know if you don't try, right? You both love each other, a lot. You're CEO of his company and you've both saved each others lives. I think that speaks for itself," Adrianna answered. Pepper seemed to digest her words and soon began nodding, offering a more calm smile now.
"Thanks Adrianna. I know it's silly of me to ask you that but I needed it." Adrianna smiled back and hugged Pepper again.
"No problem Pepper, I'm glad you did. Now let's get you married!" Adrianna grinned gleefully and walked out of the room excitedly, Pepper following suit.
Everyone finished taking their seats, shifting now as Tony took his spot at the altar. Steve smiled at the nervous look the man had, usually he looked so confident and cocky but today he looked petrified. Steve couldn't blame him though, this was a very important day. He turned to his right and smiled softly to Adrianna. She looked beautiful. Pepper had chosen very nice dresses and her hair was expertly done, the warm sunlight bathing the area made her glow. Adrianna peeked over at him and blushed under his open stare. Steve simply grinned while she ducked her head. Steve let himself have another look around as they stood with the rest of the group, hidden out of sight from the guests.
A warm breeze drifted through the air, bringing with it the smell of salt water and palm trees. He listened as the waves gently washed ashore, the brilliant blue hue could be seen from their outdoor venue. The wedding was being held in Hawaii and Tony had rented a villa where he, Pepper, and the bridal party were staying at. The area was grand, nestled closely to the beach with a spacious lawn that melded into the sands nearby. The altar and seating area sat closer to the villa itself, with a red runner between the seating areas leading to the gazebo where Tony stood. The landscape hadn't needed much decoration to make it perfect. Pepper had found some beautiful red roses and baby's breath bouquets to hang from silver stands and the chairs had white covers with red ribbons keeping them in place. The gazebo had red ribbons weaved around its posts, and a few bouquets sat up there too. All in all, the ceremony would be stunning.
In front of Steve were Happy and Rhodey, each escorting Wendy and Kayla down the aisle. Tony couldn't decide who his best man would be, so he'd appointed both men as his "best men". Behind Steve and Adrianna were Bruce and Natasha. Before any of the groomsmen or bridesmaids would go down the aisle however, Dahlia was going to escort the flower girl. The young woman wasn't wearing a bridesmaids dress but she wore the same grey color so it wouldn't be so distracting. Her dress was knee-length, slim but modest and, as Steve stealthily peered behind him, Bruce couldn't take his eyes off of her. He chuckled softly to himself and looked back ahead.
Suddenly the music started, gathering everyone's attention immediately. Steve smiled as Sadie took a nervous glance to her parents but clasped Dahlia's fingers anyways. Adrianna bent down and whispered to the little girl to follow Dahlia and Sadie nodded. Her little red dress brushed her ankles as she clutched the dark-haired woman's hand and toddled after her. The two started out before everyone, walking as they'd practiced several times. Sadie let go of her hand to drop petals now and again and Steve grinned when he heard everyone cooing over her.
"She did so good," Adrianna whispered, probably unaware she had said anything at all. Steve squeezed Adrianna's hand, quietly adoring his girlfriend's praise.
Soon the groomsmen and bridesmaids made their way down the aisle and they each took their places by the gazebo. Adrianna stole a glance at Tony and smiled to him, remembering how nervous she'd felt when she had gotten married. The thought now made her stomach squirm, but back then she'd been excited. It comforted her to know Tony and Pepper were happy together though.
Everyone's attention turned back to the red runner as Pepper began to walk down it. The redhead looked stunning in her slim gown and birdcage style veil. Her hair was in a light bun, with a few curls framing her face. Pepper strode down the aisle with elegance and a beaming smile on her face. Adrianna glanced back at Tony and saw him relax at the sight of Pepper. It was like her presence had a calming factor on his nerves, even though his hands continued shaking. A large smile graced his features as Pepper got closer and closer. He covered his mouth with his hands, staring at her while she gazed shyly back at him. Soon she stepped into the gazebo and the ceremony carried on. Photos were quietly taken as the minister spoke to everyone. While he spoke Adrianna could hear the two whispering to each other and saw Tony's lips twitch, confirming her suspicions. Soon it was time for the two to exchange their vows.
"I, Anthony Edward Stark... take you, Virginia Patricia Potts, for my l-lawful wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer and richer," that earned a few chuckles and a brief head shake from Pepper, "I mean... for poorer, in sickness and in health, until... death do us part." Tony recited back, his eyes never straying from the woman he obviously cherished. He smiled at the end, holding Pepper's hands tightly.
"And I, Virginia P-Patricia Potts, take you, A-Anthony Edward S-Stark, for my lawful husband... to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part." Pepper responded back. A few tears strayed down her cheeks and Tony instantly wiped them away with his thumbs. Soon they exchanged their rings and the minister looked to the couple, grinning pleasantly.
Adrianna felt her own eyes tear up, she bit the inside of her lip to stop herself from sniffling. Steve noticed this and gave a soft smile to her, since she stood across from him not beside him. Adrianna returned the gesture, looking back to their friends with a proud gaze.
"You may now kiss your bride," He proclaimed. The guests, especially the bridal party, clapped and cheered as the official married couple shared a kiss before them. Tony even theatrically dipped Pepper downwards as he did, earning a surprised laugh from her and the crowd. The hired photographers eagerly snapped photos of them, and so did a few guests. Tony soon righted himself and Pepper, hugging her close as he faced the guests. The two strode down the aisle, followed by their friends while the guests continued to cheer.
Adrianna held Sadie on her hip as she walked into the tented area. The photographers had finished taking pictures of the bridal party and now it was time to eat. She looked around, spotting the various flower bouquets set up around the space with tiny lights strung around the base and nestled in the leaves themselves. The spacious tent also had fairy lights strung around the roof, making it seem as though the stars were inside the tent. The tables had white table cloths with silver plates and red decorations. It was very romantic and even though it wasn't tropical it still suited the scenery outdoors quite nicely. Music played in the background, loud enough to be heard throughout the room but quiet enough for everyone to chat.
Adrianna spotted the table where her family sat, save for Bucky and Clint who were on a mission together, and immediately joined them. Adrianna sat Sadie between Steve and herself and took her own seat afterward. Steve smiled to them both.
"Hello you two, have a nice trip?" He asked, playfully. Adrianna rolled her eyes and smiled back.
"As nice a trip to the bathroom can be." She brushed a hand through Sadie's hair as the little girl looked up to her parents.
"Want some food baby?" She asked Sadie who nodded enthusiastically. Adrianna chuckled and kissed her head.
"Okay, just a few more minute Sadie." Steve added as he buckled his daughter into her booster seat. He didn't want her slipping off it, she may end up wandering off. Adrianna tapped his shoulder and Steve peered up at her.
"Yes?" He asked, trying not to smile too much. She'd already teased him earlier about staring at her during the ceremony. Adrianna pointed to where Tony and Pepper would walk out.
"They're getting ready to come out."
"What makes you say that?" Before Adrianna could answer a new song started blaring, gently though, through the speakers. AC/DC seemed to be Tony's soundtrack for every event in his life, regardless if it was proper or not. He strutted out in front of everyone, Pepper at his side while everyone clapped for the couple. Adrianna chuckled as he acted as though he were in front of paparazzi, posing on his way to their table. Which was interesting because there hadn't been any member of the press here, as far as Adrianna knew anyways. She wondered how Tony managed to keep them away.
When Pepper and Tony arrived at the table a round of congratulations sounded from each of their friends. They exchanged hugs and kisses on cheeks, with Tony even jokingly kissing his male companions cheeks despite their protest. When Tony saw Sadie he smiled and kissed her forehead.
"Hi munchkin, thank you for your help." Tony pulled something out from behind his back and then handed it to her. Sadie looked at the bear in his hands and gently took it.
"Oh, say thank you Sadie," Adrianna smiled. She looked up at Tony and shook her head. Tony grinned in response, he couldn't help but spoil her. Sadie smiled back briefly before burying her face in her mother's shoulder. Tony simply laughed and took his seat, not wanting to embarrass the child any more than he had.
For dinner there was a fresh salad, fresh-baked rolls, creamy pasta, cheesy scalloped potatoes, a nice piece of fish, steak, or chicken, and to top it off a dessert of chocolate lava cake. The reception soon filled with the sounds of silverware clinking on plates and quiet chatter among the guests. Adrianna learned a lot about Happy and Rhodey as they enjoyed their meal. Despite their differences with Tony their personalities were perfect for keeping Tony in check and, above all, safe. After Tony and Pepper finished eating they both excused themselves from the table.
"Thanks guys, but I think the dance floor is calling us. Right, Pepper?" Tony smiled and lead his new wife towards the dance floor, guiding her by placing his hand on the small of her back. The two went out on the middle of the floor just as the music changed to their song. Tony easily rested his hands on Pepper's slim hips and she her hands on his shoulders.
"You know what this makes me think of?" Tony asked as they slowly began dancing together. Pepper shrugged as Never Stop from Safetysuit played.
"No, what does it remind you of?" She asked, her voice a whisper. Tony gently leaned his head against hers, his lips brushing on her ear as he spoke.
"When we danced together at that charity event five years ago. Remember that?" He asked, pulling her closer. Pepper felt her eyes tear up a little, she wasn't sure if the song was getting to her or if it was Tony.
"I remember," She nodded, smiling.
Steve smiled as he finished eating his dessert, watching his newly married friends enjoying their moment together. His eyes soon strayed from the two to his girlfriend who had also decided to watch Tony and Pepper. Her smile was soft, serene even and she looked almost wistful as she rested her cheek in her hand. Steve wished he had a camera at that moment, just to capture that look of bliss she wore. She often spaced out like this, lost in her thoughts and oblivious to the world, especially lately with all this wedding excitement. Steve couldn't help but wonder if she was longing for something more. His heart fluttered at the thought. There was no doubt he wanted more, that was for sure.
"Daddy?" Steve looked down to Sadie, pulled out of his thoughts. She tugged on the sleeve of his black jacket.
"Yes sweetheart?" He asked, smiling down to her. The two-year old looked up at him, squirming a little in her seat. She seemed unsure of what to say but her squirming soon explained what it was bothering her.
"Do you have to go potty Sadie?" He asked, and she nodded. Steve easily lifted her up and kept her in his arms. Adrianna noticed the movement and looked up at them both, pulled out of her trance.
"What's wrong?" She asked, her concerns immediately rising. Steve chuckled and bent down to whisper to her.
"I'm just going to take Sadie to the bathroom. We'll be back soon." He explained, smiling gently.
"Oh, I could take her honey." Adrianna said, readying herself to get up. Steve shook his head.
"It's okay Addie, don't get up. I think we can handle it." He pressed a kiss to her cheek and walked off, taking Sadie along before Adrianna could object any further. He carried Sadie out of the tent and, upon noticing that the bathroom lines were a little long, Steve went inside the villa itself instead. The trip would take a little longer but it was worth not forcing his daughter to hold 'it' and cause an accident.
When the two returned to the party Tony and Pepper's dance was already over and the dance floor was now open to anyone who wanted to join in. More upbeat music blared from the speakers as Steve walked back to the table, Sadie toddling beside him. He held her hand tightly so she wouldn't get lost and was glad when they made it back unharmed.
"How was the trip? Everything go okay?" Adrianna asked Steve as he sat down. He picked up Sadie and put the little girl on his lap. His knee bounced her gently, something she never tired of. Sadie giggled as she grabbed her new bear and hugged it close.
"Everything's good," Steve laughed gently and smiled. "How are you Addie?" He asked now.
"I'm... happy. Very happy." Adrianna rested her hand on his and watched as Dahlia dragged Bruce out on the dance floor. Rhodey was already out there with Wendy and Kayla, and Happy also joined in. The broad man wasn't much of a dancer but nobody minded sharing the floor with him.
The evening had begun to wind down now that half of the guests had left and the sky outdoors had darkened. Pepper and Tony had opened their presents at the privacy of their table with their friends gathered around, including Steve and Adrianna's which had been a nice portrait Steve had drawn of them. Adrianna had found the photo in Pepper's office at the tower, copied it, and then Steve drew it. The DJ had played a lot of games with the people willing to dance along, Dahlia being the most willing participant. Tony had even initiated a few drinking games with their small group, which Adrianna had also taken a part of. Tony was surprised and eagerly egged her on, but made sure she drank enough water after each game.
Now Adrianna sat in her seat, leaning on the table as she sipped a glass of wine. She probably didn't need it but one more glass couldn't hurt. She smiled as she saw Steve dancing with Sadie. The little girl stood on his feet while she held her father's hands. Steve bent down to see her and both were giggling and having a good time. Bruce had loosened up considerably now that there weren't so many people here, his tie sat abandoned on the chair along with his jacket and he looked happy as he chatted with Dahlia about their latest experiment. Natasha had left an hour before, having been called in to aid on a mission.
Adrianna finished her drink and stood up, looking over at Tony and Pepper. The two were getting ready to leave soon, she could tell they were both eager to start their honeymoon. She chuckled and walked over to Steve and Sadie, smiling to the both of them.
"Sadie, can mommy dance with daddy?" Adrianna asked the toddler, only once the song was over. The two-year old nodded and let go of her father's hands.
"Go to Uncle Tony and Aunt Pepper sweetie, they're going to leave soon." Adrianna waved to the two to get their attention. Pepper looked over and nodded in understanding, crouching down with open arms to receive Sadie. Steve lead the little girl over to them.
"Thanks guys, we won't be long."
"No problem Rogers," Tony grinned as Pepper lifted Sadie up on her lap. Steve smiled and walked back over to Adrianna. She smiled to him as he approached and once he neared immediately laced her arms around his neck. Steve gave her a gentle kiss and wrapped his own arms around her waist, swaying them both with gentle movements. Adrianna giggled against him and smiled up at him.
"Are you a little drunk Ms. Harding?" Steve inquired, noticing her flushed skin. Adrianna giggled again but shook her head.
"No, I'm per...fectly fine Captain." She wasn't but Steve wasn't worried. The villa wasn't a far walk and she wouldn't be out of his sight. He smiled again and kept her close, continuing to lead her in small circles on the dance floor.
"If you say so Birdie," He pressed another kiss to her forehead and felt pleased when she snuggled close to him. He rested his hands on her lower back, keeping her near to him. Adrianna smiled into his neck and he felt his own cheeks flush when she kissed his neck. She turned her head, allowing him to rest his chin on her head. She was looking at something now and Steve glanced over at it. Tony and Pepper had caught her attention and he heard w wistful sigh escape her lips. Steve hugged her a little tighter, swaying gently still.
He knew what she wanted and at that very moment he couldn't want anything more than to grant her wish. But that would have to wait, he wasn't about to propose at their friend's wedding. But he allowed himself to think about the future for him and Adrianna. They had a future together, a prospect he was afraid he'd never have with a woman, let alone someone like Adrianna. She loved him and respected what he did, even though his 'job' put him in danger. His heart swelled with love and adoration as he gazed back down at his girlfriend. He couldn't wait any longer to make her his wife...
"Come on Birdie, let's go back to the villa. You look tired," He suggested as Adrianna yawned. She nodded sleepily.
"Okay," She said agreeably as her fingers tickled the back of his neck. Steve blushed again and released Adrianna from his grip, hoping she'd be inclined to do the same. Adrianna did but slowly, dragging her hands along his broad shoulders then walking over to Pepper and Tony. Steve stood there a moment longer, trying to clear his head, and then followed.
After they said their goodbyes, retrieved their daughter, and collected their gift bags the family of three returned to the villa to enjoy the rest of their stay in Hawaii.
Steve walked into his and Adrianna's bedroom, smiling as he shut the door behind him. He had just finished getting Sadie settled in the adjoining room. After a quick bath and a story she'd fallen right asleep. Steve looked over at Adrianna as she sat on the bed, clad in her pajamas. She'd been a little woozy on the way back to the villa but he'd let her get changed and cleaned up while he busied himself with Sadie. Steve smiled to her and began heading to the bathroom, which was next to her side of the bed.
"I'll be back soon Addie, just going to-"
"Wait, Shteve." She pleaded, grasping his arm as he neared.
"What's wrong Birdie? Everything ok-" Before he could finish his sentence she'd planted a heavy kiss to his lips, squelching any further conversation. Steve's faced burned but he melted instantly, gently wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close as he sat down beside her. She stole several kisses from him and he returned the favor to her too, growing more and more lost in each other. Steve felt her hands rake through his hair, mussing up the blonde locks while his own held on to her tightly for fear she may slip away. The two drew closer and closer, unable to break away.
At some point Steve realized they needed to stop. He gently pulled his lips away as he spoke to Adrianna, clearing his throat to not only capture her attention but to steady his voice.
"I love you Addie, very much. But honey, we should stop." Steve said softly, breathless as he brushed his hand through her soft hair. Adrianna looked up at him, her expression puzzled. Steve sighed gently. This wasn't the first time they'd gotten carried away but it'd been much easier to stop when they were both sober.
"But Shteve," She pleaded. Steve kissed her gently but shook his head afterward.
"Come on Birdie, it's late and I know you're tired." He cooed, rubbing her shoulder. Adrianna looked a little hurt, but while he felt bad Steve knew it was better not to continue. They had discussed it before and had come to the same conclusion not to get too carried away, and he wasn't about to break his promise while she wasn't in the right mind.
"I'll make it up to you soon," he promised. Adrianna nodded softly and yawned soon after. Steve gave her a few more loving kisses and gently laid her down in the bed. Adrianna went down willingly, curling up in her spot as Steve stood up. He stroked her long hair a few more times, watching her eyelids drift closed. Soon her breathes became more even, slow and deep, letting him know she'd fallen right asleep.
Steve smiled softly, his skin still flushed a light pink as he walked into the bathroom.
I'll make it up to you soon... Steve couldn't help but grin as he turned the shower on. After removing his clothes, he stepped into the steaming water, letting it flow over his muscular build. By the time he got into bed Steve knew just how he would do it.