A/N: Hello faithful readers. Second chapter for today, enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own Marvel, Disney, ABC or the Avengers.

I heard him, as I walked towards the room Steve mentioned this morning. He sat with his chair turned around, straddling it as he asked another of the circle to share their story of grief and PTSD. I was silent at the doorway as a soldier spoke about losing his buddy, and his legs. Once he was finished, he looked up and noticed me, getting onto his prosthetic feet to salute me, the circle following when they realized who I was.

"At ease, please. I'd like to join you, if I'm welcome," I asked, seeing Sam's smile. He nodded, "We'd be honored Colonel."

"None of that here, please. Elizabeth," I asked the group, as one soldier brought a chair in for me.

"Thank you," I smiled at him, sitting down and huffing, "This is killer on the back."

"A super soldier baby? Sounds like it would be," Sam teased, making them laugh. I smiled, "We aren't sure if the babe will have our serum enhancements. But with how heavy Steve is, this kid will be solid."

"Damn straight, he's like a ton of bricks," Sam joked to the group. I could tell that my presence was appreciated, and Sam said, "Well, we have time for one more. Colonel, you up for it?"

"Wow, put on the spot," I laughed, "But yeah."

I cleared my throat and started, "Over my career, with the Army, with SHIELD, I'd never sought help. Not that I didn't need it, but because I couldn't trust anyone. My lack of trust turned into paranoia. I had weapons stashed all over my house and apartment. There were signal jammers set up, because I thought Hydra might be watching me."

"After Captain Rogers put the plane down, not that the Army or anyone but my brother knew this, I tried and failed to end my life over fifty times. Each time, I'd get up and walk away, feeling cursed to walk the earth, alone forever. Even that didn't seem as awful as some horrors I'd witnessed... and committed."

"What did change me, was a mission I had during the Korean War. My mission was to infiltrate a small camp with 20 of my men, where we'd subdue the enemy troops and gain access to their battle plans, gathering any intelligence and a look into their weaponry. What was supposed to be a small camp, turned out to have visiting soldiers from another unit."

"We surrounded them, but were soon outnumbered by the 50 soldiers in their camp. My men were shot down, and I was unable to save them. I watched the light leave the eyes of a man that looked like my husband, and I snapped When I returned to the air lift site with the last body of my men, I had their blood as well as every last North Korean soldier in that camp on my hands. Literally, and in my hair. I needed three showers to feel like I had scrubbed myself raw enough."

"I don't talk about it much, but I lost a little bit of what made me 'Lady Liberty'. The only thing I'd been able to do was shut out my emotions, get the mission done and feel something about it later. My emotions had made me a good soldier though. I can regrow skin and bones, but watching someone die changes you. And I let it change me so much that I lost the thing that made me human; emotional connection. Otherwise we are all just robots."

"What I'm saying is, I don't think I have to be ashamed of myself anymore, of the things I did in the name of peace. Some had it worse than me and have lead meaningful lives without seeking retribution. Vengeance isn't the right answer when we lose someone we care about. Anger isn't a healthy state to be in when we have lost something. And when I started connecting with my men and agents, I found something I had been denying myself; love."

"I pushed it away because I thought I was a monster for things I had done. Maybe I still am, but without it, I'd probably be worse than I was. They say it's better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all. I've lost a lot of good friends, but their memories and legacy give me the courage to get up everyday. They fought and died for something they believed in, and my legacy can be to tell their stories through my own life."

It was silent a moment as everyone nodded, before Sam smiled at me.

"Damn, I'm good," He joked, making the room laugh.

"Seriously, you've never sought help?" Sam asked me, "Because you just described the end result, acceptance. I've never seen someone go through all five stages of grief so fast."

"Well, I've had over 70 years to finally get it. I'm a little more stubborn than my husband, and he decided to be dramatic and not give me his coordinates," I smiled, as the group laughed again.

"That's what I want to get you to," He gestured to me, "You don't have to be perfect again; you don't even have to be who you were before. I want you to be okay with who you are now, and feel in your gut that you are better for knowing those you lost."

"Alright, that's all for this week. Have a good weekend guys," Sam said, letting them go. Most came over to introduce themselves, shake my hand and thank me for my share. It was touching to see the kind of people that came out the other side of a war, how they were able to talk about it, versus my generation who would tell you to bottle it up.

"Joshua Kent. Thank you Colonel," The soldier with the prosthetic legs, said genuinely.

"What did I say? I'm Elizabeth here. I'm a soldier, just like any of you," I emphasized, shaking his outstretched hand, "Thank you for your story Joshua."

"Thank you for listening. It's hard to get out, but if you can tell a room full of strangers, I can too."

"Again, I had 70 years to learn how to actually tell someone the whole story and my feelings. I think you'll do much better than I have," I encouraged.

"Thank you. Have a good day Col- Elizabeth," He nodded, catching his words when I gave him a look.

"You too Joshua."

When they had left, Sam shook his head and sighed, "I'm not getting rid of you Rogers', am I?"

"Yeah, you've got us for life when we decide you are worth it," I teased, sitting back down in a chair. He sat across from me and said, "I already told Steve I'd think about your offer. I like what I do here, and I do miss being in the field."

"Yes, but that's only part of why I'm here. I actually want to know the reason you don't think you are Avengers material."

He nodded, "Okay, that's fair. I get that I helped you guys last week, and it's not a matter of risking my life or anything, I just don't see what I'd bring to the table. I'm a soldier, not a spy."

"Aerial support for one, tactical knowledge that three of our members do not have. Tony may be a genius, but he's a egotistical one that believes his plans of attack are better than people who have actually been in battles."

"Is that all?" He chuckled, "You could get the same thing from anyone in the Air Force."

"I'm more partial to the people who know loss and use that memory as their driving factor. They know compassion, they know pain, they think of others before themselves. Their focus is on civilians. And not many know how to handle those fancy wings like you do."

"Wouldn't Colonel Rhodes be a better fit? Less chance of his suit failing like mine did?"

"Yes, but I like your witty banter. And even Tony's tech isn't infailiable. So, personality, skill, psychologically sound, cool under pressure and battle wise? You check all my boxes Sam. So, why would SHIELD or the Avengers not check yours? What is holding you back?"

"I don't think I'm what you're looking for."

"I think you are. Look, I'm going to be out of commission for the team, and may not be able to join them if they are assembled again anytime soon. It's our latch ditch effort usually, but it's nice to know we have people if we need them," I shrugged, "But if you are serious about being an Agent, we'd be lucky to have you. I need good people I trust right now."

"You've known me a week," He smirked, and I nodded, "But in that week you've shown me all I need to know about you. First impressions say a lot about a person. You're loyal Sam, and loyalty is a trait I admire. Especially when it isn't easy to find these days. I know Steve could do with someone to watch his back on STRIKE, but again, that's up to you."

"I'll think about it. I really will, Colonel."

"Elizabeth," I teased, holding out a hand. He shook it, smiling, "Elizabeth."

"But you'll have to call me Colonel in front of other agents," I joked, "Wouldn't want them thinking they could do the same."

"Of course," He laughed. I made to leave, when he asked, "How is he?"

I turned back with a questioning glance, as he said, "Your boy, Barnes."

"He's better. Ish. He would like to apologize about your car by the way, when you see him again."

"Yeah, people ripping out the steering wheels through the windshield wasn't covered in my policy agreement," He deadpanned. I laughed, giving him a devious smile, "Well, you never know when a new car will come your way."

"Don't you even think about it," He smiled.

"Sorry, I can't hear you. My name is being called, down this hall," I spoke loudly as I walked out the door, "Bye Sam!"

I left quickly hearing his laugh follow me as I met up with Mel again. She gave a smile, "Now?"

"Almost. If we are lucky, Steve will think I haven't left base at all," I smiled deviously, hurrying my steps, only to hear his ringtone.

America... FUCK YEAH! Comin' to save the motherfucking day, yeah. America... FUCK YEAH!

"Busted," Mel smiled as we walked out.

"Oh hush," I breathed, answering the phone, "Hello Darling. I've been looking for you everywhere."

"Nice try. I've been back for an hour and HERMES told me you were out."

"Damn."

"Are you heading back soon?"

"Just need to stop by a car dealership and then we will be," I smiled as I got into the passenger seat of the SHIELD SUV. Mel gave me a look as Steve teased, "A new car? I didn't think that was a good idea until she was sixteen."

"No, it's for Sam," I laughed, "And I'm gonna ask them about fleet pricing. I might be able to wrangle some for SHIELD out of our current budget."

"Alright. Do you want me to pull something for dinner?"

"No, I already did. There is a roast in the oven waiting for three o'clock before it preheats."

"That sounds good. Anything you want prepped?"

"Don't you have agents to review for recruitment to STRIKE, Captain?" I teased.

"Yeah, it was just nice having a little bit of time off. And Bucky is still in with Dr. Garner."

"Okay, prep the potatoes. Leaving them in cold water will pull more starch out," I instructed, knowing he needed a distraction.

"Alright, I love you."

"Love you too. See you soon."

"See you soon."

After picking out a practical car, that seemed like something Sam might like, I had them deliver it to his house with a little note.

Since your old one was collateral damage, I hope you might accept this one. Your loyalty is invaluable to us, but here's something that might sweeten the deal. JK, enjoy the new ride. You deserve it.

I had signed it from 'The Rogers', but Sam would know anyways. Melinda and I grabbed a quick bite at a salad bar, before heading back. It was so weird to be out in public after months of hiding. When I was pregnant with Phil, I had worn a wig and moved to a small town with less security surveillance until he was born. And then I freaked Howard out by coming home with a baby in my arms.

We drove into the garage, talking about how Mel had seen Daisy and Brock sneak off together after Cybertek.

"She's lucky Phil didn't notice," She said and I agreed, "Otherwise there would have been a battle royale."

"Do you think he's good enough for her?"

"I think he's good for her. No one is ever good enough, but he is better than most. Ah, and speaking of the devil," I smiled, as Brock was walking towards the garage.

"Where are you headed?" I asked.

"To get you. HEREMES told em you were back. Fitz is up," He said, falling into step behind me.

"I was just about to relay the same information Colonel," HERMES said and I smiled.

"Alright, what's his condition HERMES?"

"Stable. He is quite confused by his surroundings and how Agent Simmons is, shall we say, smothering him."

"Agent Rogers tried to get her to give him some air, and Agent Romanoff is hovering at the door," Brock confirmed as we walked by a group of agents. I sighed, "Well, then, take us to Level Two."

"Yes Ma'am," HERMES replied as we got in the elevator.

"Running some errands?" Brock cheeked.

"Actually, paying bills," I laughed, "The big three want to watch over our finances for awhile, and I decided it's better not to fight them at this point. I just have money set aside for extravagant things. A savings account if you will."

"Level Two," HERMES announced as the doors opened.

"Please tell Captain Rogers I am back."

"Yes Ma'am."

I saw Natasha, making eye contact as she schooled her face. She didn't say anything, still leaning up against the opposite wall with a angled view into Fitz's room. I walked up to the door, opening it after a quick knock.

"May I come in?" I asked, peeking my head through.

"Colonel," Jemma smiled, "What a surprise. Isn't it Fitz?"

Daisy gave me a look as Fitz struggled to form words. He looked to be getting frustrated, so I asked, "Could you give me a few minutes with him?"

"Come on," Daisy agreed, pulling Jemma away from Fitz's side gently. Jemma floundered for an excuse to stay, but assured him, "I'll be back Fitz," as she was pulled out of the room. I made sure the door was closed, before I sat down next to his bed. He was in full arm cast, a couple bumps and bruises, but not looking worse for wear. I, however, knew that his problems lied underneath.

"I would like to ask you a few questions Dr. Fitz. All I need are head nods for yes, and head shakes for no. Is that alright?"

He looked scared when I said questions but relaxed as he realized it was only yes or no questions. He nodded, blinking twice and taking a deep breath.

"Did you know I tried to drown myself once?" I asked. He shook his head and I smiled, "I made many attempts on my own life after the War. But drowning was one of the worst, so I can understand what you went through."

"Dr. Fine says you are likely to have some brain damage from the lack of oxygen. But that will only be temporary. Do you understand that?" I asked gently, to which he nodded.

"Did Jemma explain where we are?" Shake.

"Olympus is my secret base. Now, it's one of SHIELD's bases. We were able to salvage the HUB, Providence, and one other secret base, the Playground, in the aftermath. We have plans in place to retake the FRIDGE and secure it, along with the Sandbox and the Academies. I'd like you to head up the engineering department here, when you are better." He looked brighter at this, as I smiled.

"Until you are feeling better though, I've asked a good mechanic to come oversee things. We have gotten rid of levels however, so no more getting half the story," I smiled. His eyes drifted past me to the window. I looked behind me to see Natasha smiling at him, giving a little wave.

His heart rate monitor started climbing and I smiled as I turned back, "Do I need to send her away too?"

He shook his head, blushing a little.

"What you did in that Med Pod was very brave Fitz. And extremely quick thinking. You saved both of your lives, and figured out a way for us to find you. Is it something you regret, saving her life at the expense of your brain?" He frowned and shook his head vigorously.

"Then I hope you'll learn not to be harsh on yourself while you are healing, however long that takes."

He nodded bashfully as I said, "It's going to be a process, but I'm prepared to bring in a speech therapist for you, to make it easier. Does that sound like something you'd be up for?"

He shrugged slightly and I understood.

"When you feel ready, you can tell me. But until then," I said, pulling a tablet out of my bag, "I'd like you to use this to communicate. It's going to seem a little childish and beneath you to use sign cards to convey what you want and need, but you are going to own it."

He smiled a little, as I showed him the program. He typed out a small sentence, "You look very nice today," and flipped it around to hold up for Natasha. Nat smirked and winked at him. I caught a glimpse of the blush he gave her in return for the wink, and knew this was a good match. And I didn't even have to do anything!

"Alright. I'll leave you to rest. This is HERMES by the way."

"Good afternoon Dr. Fitz," The AI sounded from the tablet. Fitz looked up at me in question and I smiled, "Yes, that's Nathan Fillion's voice. My nephew knew I was a fan of Firefly. And Halo."

"All you have to do is press that button and he will request someone to come help you. I'll be asking Dr. Simmons to allow you some breathing room, so if you need help from the nurse, press the call button, and anything else, HERMES is your guy," I explained, as I stood. He seemed to just notice my belly, blinking in confusion up at me, as I smirked, "What did you think the veils were for?"

"Not that," He typed and I chuckled.

"It's alright. Agent Simmons knew, so if you want the full story, you can ask her. But if you want her in general, tell HERMES. She'll be upstairs in our bio labs. We've got all the toys you'll need when you are better."

"Thank you," He typed out, giving me a smile.

"Rest. It's the perfect way to heal your body. Daisy will-" His face screwed up in confusion, making me to stop. I laughed, "Right. Skye? Well, her real name is Daisy. She's my granddaughter. She can tell you the rest of her story, or Jemma can, because she heard it yesterday too."

"Daisy will bring you a survival pack. Or if you ask Agent Romanoff, she'd gladly find some things for you to pass the time in here. Books, music, relaxing things," I added, seeing him glance at her again.

"Would you like me to send her in?" I teased. He gave a little smirk and nodded. I gestured with my head for her to come in, and she didn't hesitate.

"Dr. Fitz," She smiled warmly, "I want to thank you for the upgraded Stingers you made me. They helped save my life the day of Hydra's reckoning."

He began typing, but she stilled his hand as I closed the door behind me, seeing her lean forward to kiss his cheek. He looked at me wide eyed as she began to pull away, flushing and giving her a wide smile. She sat back in the chair I just had occupied while I beckoned Dr. Simmons over.

"Agent Simmons, a word."

"Is everything alright Ma'am?" She asked, worried.

"Yes, I would however, like to ask you to leave Dr. Fitz's medical care to Dr. Fine unless he has asked you to step in. I am worried you will not be objective, as a concerned friend rather than medical professional."

"Of course, I understand," she said, deflating. I gave her a look continuing, "You have been invaluable to me this last year Jemma, and this isn't a punishment. Fitz appreciates your concern, but he is trying to come to terms with his prognosis as well. Give him some room. He will call for you when he needs someone in the room."

"Alright," She said, looking over through Fitz's window to see Natasha talking to him, and a smile gracing his face.

"I have a Fitz too. And not unlike him, she gets easily frustrated when she can't communicate easily. Sometimes she doesn't need someone to fix her, but to be there as she goes through a scary time. She will never be who she was, but I can be her rock and not treat her differently or with kid gloves. She really hates that."

"Understood. Thank you Colonel."

"And if Agent Romanoff would like to speak to him, do her and him a solid and vanish," I teased.

"I will. It's nice to see him smile," She said, a hint of jealousy in her gaze, back through the window to his room.

"You are still his best friend, Jemma. You knew you'd have to share him eventually. Just like he has to share you with Dr. Banner," I smiled, knowingly, as her cheeks flushed.

"I suppose so. It's just so odd, to see him like this. One of the last things he said to me in that pod, was how he didn't think he would get the future he wanted, but I should be given the chance with the one I want."

"What future was that?" I asked, as her head gestured back to Fitz's room.

"He really likes her. But didn't think he had a chance with her. I mean, she's the Black Widow, for heaven's sake. She obviously could get him to see he is wrong, if her advances are any indication. It's hard to tell if its genuine though."

"This is a side of Natasha I've never seen. If you knew her past, you'd know why this makes my heart soar, to see her allowing herself to even get close to him. This is new for her, and I think they'd be good together. She always had a soft spot for a Scottish accent," I smiled, thinking back to our movie nights.

"How awkward would it be if I gave her the shovel talk? Threaten the Black Widow and make gatherings with the Avengers tense?" She laughed.

"So you aren't denying you'd be around them more, due to a certain physicist," I teased, and she gave a smile, "No. Bruce is… so incredibly shy and reserved. But so handsome and sweet."

"So, you may have to make the first move if he is that shy. You know what, we could talk about this later. Dinner is at 6:30," I smiled, before asking her, "Do you like Yorkshire pudding?"

"What Brit in their right mind wouldn't?" She smiled.

"Good. See you then," I nodded, before walking back over to Melinda and Brock. Daisy suddenly announced, "I'm gonna go check the Satellite feeds and run a diagnostic check."

"Oh-kay," I said confused as she walked off quickly,"What was that about?"

"She a little embarrassed," Mel smiled.

"May here, just wanted us to be very careful about what PDA we show around the other agents," Brock explained.

"She probably doesn't want anyone thinking Daisy got her position because you're together, or through anything other than skill," I shrugged.

"No, I just want them to tone it down. What they do behind closed doors is their business, but this is an intelligence agency, not high school."

"Hmm, too true. That will be something for HR to decide, once it's up and running again," I teased Brock. He sighed, "No PDA. You have my word."

"It better not, or it would ruin your rep," I laughed as we made our way back to the elevators.