Happy Holidays!
AN: Fav/Fallow/Review
December 24th, 2004
"So let me get this straight, your telling that a green fur ball thing lives on top of a mountain with a dog and eats nothing but garbage and spends his day hating on other people?"
"Yes, but they're not people, they're who's" Grace had explained to Mark. Both walking through the snowy crowded street.
"So, this 'Who' is named the Grinch that hated the affiliation and idea of Christmas, because he had no heart?" He asked with a hint of skepticism.
"Exactly."
Grace was trying to explain the story behind "How The Grinch Stole Christmas". Hard to believe that he's never heard of it. Mark had previously stated his lack of interest for the holiday. Grace had later went on to call him a Grinch, saying he had no heart. The confusion in his face gave a 'What are you on?' look. Which progressively turned into the current conversation they were having.
Both Grace and Mark were out in winter cold, both bundled up wearing their coats, hats and gloves. Mark was holding onto several shopping bags, while Grace held onto a few small boxes. This was going to be grace's first Christmas without her parents. Initially, she wanted to skip the day and pretend it didn't exist. Miraculously, Mark had convinced her to give it a chance. The argument he came up with was the factuality that he had never appropriately celebrated the holiday. And with Grace now living with him, he thought it would be great for once if he took a hit at the whole festivities. Lately they've both been getting along as friends, sharing only a few snippets about their personal lives. And as her friend, Mark had thoroughly converted her to the spirit that was just around the corner.
Even through his persistence, Grace was not as thrilled as he expected her to be. Most likely because of the fresh wounds that lingered in her conscious. With the recent forthcoming behavior, Mark wanted to make sure it stayed that way. But with the upcoming weeks that lead to the day, it was becoming harder to get her to participate.
A rush of cold winter air hit the two, quite of few people had to hold their own to avoid from falling.
"Was it really necessary to buy all this stuff?" Grace grumbled as she held tightly onto the set of boxes, shivering at the gust of wind.
"Honestly? No. To be honest, I've never done this before, so I'm not sure how many gifts I'm supposed to get. The movies always seem to do it by the truck load." He answered as they crossed the active street.
From the looks of it, they weren't the only ones doing last minute shopping. The busy streets of downtown Chicago had been pact to the brim with people who were in dire need to complete their lists. It was lively and overwhelming for Grace, remembering the joy she once felt not too long ago this very day.
"You let movies teach you lessons on how to act? I told you it was fine. We could of just sit back and hang, watch a movie or something." Grace muttered, moving away as a few pedestrians were walking towards them.
"We'll still be able to do that or did you forget, this was my idea not yours. I want to get the full experience, the movies are there to use as a... guide." He argued, sweeping his eyes across the traffic light that had turned red, stopping at the signal.
Letting out a huff, Grace was able to see her breath.
"Hey." Mark called.
Turning her attention to him, he began copying her. Showing his pale breath to her. "Look, I'm smoking." He joked lightly.
Rolling her eyes, she shook her head. "I remember I use to do that, back when I was five." Emphasizing on the five.
Chuckling, the light had turned green. Simultaneously, both Grace and Mark, along with those behind them, walked across the road.
Within minutes of walking, it slowly began to snow. Grace watched, her eyes grew a bit wider. Mark smiled at the sight, he was ready to comment until he heard a hiss in what sounded like discomfort.
It was coming from Grace. With the snow falling all over them, she immediately dropped the boxes in the middle of the packed street and began covering her face. Without a seconds thought, Mark ran down towards her, setting down the bags.
Bystanders watched carefully but ignored them, going back to their own business. Mark ignored the eyes that stared down at them.
Focusing on her, he shielded her from the public. "What's wrong? What hurts?" He asked carefully.
Her voice muffled through the fabric of her clothing. "My face, it burns."
Nodding his head, he removed his scarf, ignoring the strange looks that they were receiving. "Here, I'm going to wrap this around you."
Using the scarf to bandage her irritated skin, Grace balled her fist on the snow covered floor, anger took over her face. The absurdity of her disability had once again screwed her over. Leaving her unable to enjoy the smallest things. The minute those tiny flakes touched her skin, it felt like her face had suddenly set on fire. She hated it, hated being forced to go along and pretend she was normal when it was clear as day that something was obviously wrong with her.
It was all Mark's fault, had he listened to her and stayed at home, like she insisted, than none of this would have happened. She'd be safe from the humiliation she was facing now. Grace could almost hear the cruel laughter of people, pointing at her, mocking her at the shameful display. The image alone made grace glow red, embarrassment burning her face, or maybe it was the snow. It didn't matter because her face still burned both physically and emotionally.
After Mark finished concealing her face, he went over to pick the packages she dropped, along with his own bags. While he gathered himself, he could see the weird expressions everyone was giving them. Glaring back at them, he dared anyone to come forth. Though, no had actually gotten the nerve to say a word.
Ascending from the cold floor, her skin felt the irritating sensation from the contact she had with the snow. While it still burned, it cooled down once her face was bandaged. Her gaze tore away from Mark, unable to look at anyone.
Much to her surprise, Mark's response, before she started walking away, had been a soft apology. "You were right, this was a bad idea and for that, I'm sorry. Let's just get out of here and go home."
Nodding, Mark handed her back the boxes she was carrying. The two returned to their normal stroll, ahead of them was an adornment of decorative christmas lights that stretched out into the streets.
It was a beautiful sight, unfortunately the snowy weather had made it rather difficult for Grace to take joy in the atmosphere. He wanted to promise her that this was going to be their best holiday yet. But felt like he would be lying to her, or at least give false hope to an idea that might never come true.
"Thank you." She spoke suddenly. "I know you hated doing this. But I'm happy that you tried."
His eyes met hers and the doubt he saw compelled him to relieve some of her concerns. "It's not over yet. Just you wait, after we get home, you're going to help me hang up the tree and show me how to bake sugar cookies. You can even explain to me more about those animated movies, you know, the ones with scary looking dolls." He smiled. "It'll be great."
Grace has nothing to add, instead she walks quietly alongside Mark. She appeared uncomfortable, her cheeks flush.
Mark's enthusiasm had almost made her want to believe him. Weeks before, he promised he wouldn't let anything happen to her. Silently, she wished that promise would be kept, for her sake.
888
December 24th, 2010
There was a thin blanket of snow resting on her window. Grace watched the blizzard from the comfort of her sleeper sofa. The fire illuminated a flickering light. With the rich well carved mantel, the fireplace had provided her with warmth. The lights were dimmed as Grace sat there alone.
She leaned back in her seat and viewed out the window, the wind howled, piling in the drift that blinded the outside. The holiday season has begun. Though no one would be able to tell if you stepped foot inside. With no decorative interior ornamentation, the house lacked charm and spirit.
With only the t.v. on, she snuggly sat there with the warm fire and loosely knitted away. She was just about done knitting her second doily while she watched, 'The year without Santa Claus'. A cute animated movie really. They're clunky movements only gave it a certain charm that would force you to pay attention.
But her focus was entirely somewhere else. Impatiently awaiting to call in and so far, she hasn't received a thing. Fury had spoken to her over the phone about Mark. The connection between him and the catastrophic events that had happened to the company buildings. It was a crazy thought she had first, the lack of evidence made it seem like a far fetched story. It soon changed when the director had called, only to confirm her suspicions. Since then, she hasn't gotten in touch with him or shield.
It was starting to get irritating to have to sit there. When were they going to call her? How long does it take to plan? Did they even have a plan? What else could they possibly be missing? Sometimes it was easy to think Fury knew all the answers, with his all seeing eye and whatnot. But Grace had seen the impression it left Fury whenever he wasn't sure of anything. He was quiet and reserved, it frightened most of the agents because they weren't sure if he would implode by talking to him.
Grace smiled at the tv as she continued to watch the movie. There was a knock on the door. She looked behind from where she was sitting. Placing her kit down, she made her way to the door, moving slowly so as to be careful.
She wasn't expecting anyone this time around. Her mouth curved into a smile, obviously not expecting his appearance.
Ignoring the snow, she crashed against him. "Phil! It's so good to see you." She greeted, her voice muffled in his shoulder.
"Hey, it's good to see you too. I see you're doing well for yourself." He said softly, letting go of her.
"I am," Grace opened the door wider. "Come in. It's snowing like crazy." She invited.
"Thanks." Stepping inside, he quickly noticed the atmosphere in the house.
The rooms might of been well furnished but it still didn't take away the feeling that lingered in the back of his mind. It felt a tad bit hollow and empty.
Entering the home, it was surprisingly cozy. Noticing he interrupted her while she was watching a movie. He also couldn't help but eye the rolls of yarn the casually laid around, along with an unfinished doily.
"I hope I'm not interrupting." Sounding apologetic.
"No, not at all." She followed him into the living room. "Thought I'd relax for a bit."
"I can tell," Picking the doily from the couch, a smirk appeared. "A new hobby of yours."
An exposed smile spread across the woman's face. "I could use the distraction. Maybe you should give a try, it's quite relaxing."
Phil chuckled in response. He took off his coat and gloves and place them neatly in the coat hanger by the door. When he turned around, Grace was already behind him.
She was holding out a plate of cookies shaped as ornaments and stockings. "Sugar cookie?"
Feeling his face begin to warm. Without protest he accepted and took a bite. "You made these?"
Continuing to munch on the cookie. The two returned to the living room and sat near the fire with the movie still playing.
"I made them earlier- Oh! I almost forgot." She paced and disappeared for a few seconds, then emerged from the kitchen, a mug in hand. "Hot chocolate?"
"Were you planning on eating them?" He asked doubtfully while he took the mug from her.
Shaking her head, she spoke. "I made them earlier at the community center. We were having a small little party and there was some left over. I didn't want to throw them away, it would be such a waste. And a friend of mine insisted I take the hot coco, so I did."
"I'm glad. How's life been treating you?" He quizzed.
"It's been good. I've gone out a bit. Oh, and I've gotten in touch with Tom for a while. I made some friends in a community center so that's also good. Not much has happened since then." She darted her eyes away, purposefully avoiding the bombing event that happened not to long ago.
"What about your abilities?"
"Hm..." She attempts to dodge the question. "Same as usual, nothing's changed. I've kept my emotions in check. I've also been doing those meditating exercises Fury had recommended."
A warm feeling swept away any doubt he was having about her new found independence. "That great to hear. So I take it that you're enjoying your time away from shield?" He asked, sipping the hot beverage.
"I am. I've been very... content. And as you can see, I've been occupying myself with certain activities, to keep myself busy." Grace confessed, turning back to the movie. "I wasn't expecting anyone to show up today. But, since you've come all this way." She smiled. "I'd like to give you something."
She hurriedly made way for her bedroom. Peering around in her closet, she carelessly moved the clothing that was in the way. Grace was looking for a specific item.
Coulson remained in the sofa, helping himself to another cookie. His eyes were open with curiosity and surprise.
Grace approached him, her hands clutching what appeared to be a hand knitted scarf; it was gray. He could see she was slightly hesitant. Nevertheless, she pushed the scarf towards him, offering him to take it.
"I made it myself. What do you think?" She asked, watching closely.
Phil's expression softened that soon turned into a smile that wiped away her fears. "It's nicely stitched together and real convenient too. I like it, really." Taking the gift into his own hands.
"Had I known we'd be exchanging gifts, I would have made the effort to get you something as well."
"Don't be silly. You didn't know and besides, you're my friend and that's all I ever wanted." Grace offered softly and smiled, crashing into the sofa right next to him.
"Still, probably should have guessed considering the day."
"Now that you mention it, I thought you'd be off celebrating."
Shaking his head. "The world doesn't stop for the holidays. And if anyone is off celebrating, I thought that it would be you."
"I've thought about it, but I'm better off sitting here, relaxing by the fire, watch a movie and do whatever I feel like." Her tone was calm as she attempted to look him in the eyes, only to realize she couldn't.
Grace stood quiet for a moment, her smile slowly deflated. "Why are you here?"
Witnessing his approach to the question, she could tell he was somewhat uncomfortable. There was a despondent moment of silence in the room. It seemed like he was debating whether or not to tell her.
Instead, he got up and went to the coat hanger that was by the door. He started digging into his coat pockets, once he found what he was looking for, he returned to Grace.
He was holding a yellow folder. What was inside is anyone's guess. "There's a reason why I'm here."
Clearing his throat he continued. "I've come to brief you."
She looked at him for a long time, sensing an uneasy reaction as she stared at the folder. "I would have guessed fury wanted to do the honours."
"That was the idea. But I assured him that it wasn't necessary."
"Why?"
He shrugged. "I wanted to see how you were doing. Working full time, I don't have much time for leeway, so I took the opportunity to head out and see you in person. Hope you're not disappointed"
"If we're comparing you and the director, I'd say, you take the cake. Your more subtle, and a lot less intimidating." Grace confided and gave him a smirk.
Quickly, she changed the subject. "Anyways, you're here to brief me. I've been waiting patiently and now that you're here, I can finally get moving. So, what's up?" She asked in deep determination.
Taking out the containments in the folder, he informed her. "It took us a while to figure it out. There was a pattern between each building. Each tower that went down had been recently open throughout Haisley's career. The one in Peru had opened earlier this year. In kabwe, created in 2008. Denmark, 2006. Osaka, 2004, Bangkok, 2003, Mumbai, 2002. Then there was the one that happened here, which was created in 2000. We believe the next attack will also take place here, but the thing is, Romanoff thinks they're going to strike an office rather than a tower."
Grace took a deep breath, scolding herself for failing to see any connections. Learning about the recent events made her weary and helpless. Her inability to find those responsible had fueled her with self-induced rage, wanting nothing but to tear apart every strand of hair on her head for her stupidity. Her last memories of him had mainly focused on his expression. The emotions of fear and distress as he had been dragged and taken away from her. The sinfulness to abandon logic made her feel like an utter fool. Callously dismissing the facts that stood right in front of her face didn't disqualified the shamefulness that caught up with her. The delusions of finding him slowly drifted away as she adjusted to life without her partner. It pained her to realize her failure to keep her promise. What would Mark think of me now?
Had grace known that shield was withholding this information, she might of gone through the lengths in collaborating. How long have they known? She wondered. With them, it was never simple, things were often left vague and shady when it came to her involvement. It was like they wanted to keep her in the dark. Why? She wasn't sure. But her only guess, they didn't trust her enough or simply believed she wasn't capable of handling the situation. It left her at a loss, even when she wasn't held in shield or watched by his people, they still managed to control her outside.
Staring down at her palms, she realized they began flicking with sparks. Strange, she hasn't done that in months. It was a thought that had no importance, calmly she closed her hands and hoped Phil didn't notice. She had wasted enough time to know that now wasn't the time to think about herself. For so long, she's waited for the opportunity to open up and now that it has, it was time to take action.
"What makes her think that?" Grace asked.
"Because the one here in Chicago, happens to be the last tower on the list. It was the first one to ever be built."
He looked to her as they sat side by side, just as puzzled. "Romanoff thinks the person behind it is doing it out of spite. It's no longer business, if that was the case there'd be a call out for a ransom or a message. We've had neither, and now we're starting to think it's become personal between Mark and the one who has him. You knew Dr. Haisley for a long time, what did he value more in the world besides you?"
"His company." She answered without hesitation.
"Exactly, what's bothering me the most is the motivation. I doubt it's a repeat of what happened with Stark. But back to what Romanoff was saying. Since that was the last one, she thinks it will only get worse, on a personal level. Both her and Fury think they'll strike an office building. Not just any building, but one that holds significance." His voice faltered behind the befuddlement that was this case.
Grace could feel a chill running down her spine. Knowing full well the answer, and just knowing was enough to paralyze her completely in horror. "They're going after the main office aren't they?" The voice of tone felt hollowed as she asked. "That's were Tom does most of business, that's where he mostly stays at." She fretted, looking at him directly. "Tom could be in danger, we need to go find him!" Shouting, she jolted right up.
However, Phil quickly disabled her movements. He firmly took hold of her shoulder, attempting to ease the woman. "Before you do anything stupid, let me just finish. You can freak out after I'm done. Alright?" He stilly maneuvered her to return to her seat. "We think that the next attack will take place next month and-"
"Next month? Why next month?" She bluntly interrupted.
"The time period, of which the attacks have taken place, had a distance of one month. And since their last attack happened this month, we think it won't happen until the next."
"So what are we going to do? What's the plan?" She pleaded, starting to grow impatient.
"When we look at the dates, they all fall under six. It's safe to say, it'll take place on the sixth of January-" He paused once he saw the tension on her shoulders. "What? What's wrong?"
Grace swallowed hard and said in a whisper. "That's my birthday..." Her eyes glistening as they fought back the liquid that often burned her more times than she could count.
The room became quiet, with only the television to provide noise. He glanced up and sat there, noticing that her hands were clutching. The information was a lot to take in from her perspective and it only increased when she realized the extent of the dangers. Mark's life is in immediate danger, even those he considered his friends, friends like Tom. It was overwhelming to know the exact day where your friend's life could possibly end. And knowing how, also terrified her.
She wasn't going to give up though. Grace had to be brave, it was well known that eventually she would have to face her fears. With lives at stake there was no time for dillydallying, it was time she fulfilled her promise. And if she was going to find Mark, she would need to get to the person who was responsible. To find said person, she will have to face them on the sixth.
The grim expression on her face made Phil catch on, observing the way she hid her emotions. Given the type of relationship they had with one another, it astonished Coulson as her loyalty was beyond fierce to man. Never experienced it himself, there were times where he wished to know how it would feel. To know that there was someone out there who would see him the way Grace sees Haisley. Sadly, at this point in his life, all he could do was imagine as he knew better than to divulge into a relationship, given his career choice.
Minutes went by as they sat there in discomforting stillness. The movie had gradually ended through their conversation and was now in a commercial break. The snow died down but covered most of the ground.
"You are to report to base the day before, there you'll be taken to headquarters. We'll explain the outline of the plan from then." He retrieved the papers back into the folder, setting it aside.
Grace didn't trust her voice and simply nodded. No matter what happened now, she will not fail. She owes it to the people that helped her get to where she is today. At the same time, she'd be lying if she didn't say she wasn't at all afraid. Part of her feared of losing control, losing the fight, losing Mark. But whether she was ready or not, she was to face the challenge ahead.
"Are you going to stick around for a while? Or do you need report back?" She questioned softly without looking at him.
Phil had also kept his eyes on the screen. "Not immediately, no. Why?"
Grace was glad that the room was dimmed, he wouldn't be able spot the heat of blush forming in her cheeks. "I thought it would be polite if I invited you to stay for... dinner."
Phil chuckled in response, he was more than willing to stay with her. Though he became concerned after the briefing, he knew that the reports would be a sensitive topic for her. Which was why he thought it should of been him to break the news, rather than Fury. The director had no subtlety and acted on voracious impulses.
For a moment, Grace didn't seem as depressed as he initially thought she would be.
"If it's not a bother. Sure, I'd like that." Phil accepted warmly. "On one condition."
Grace stared at him. "What is it?"
"You'll let me help."
With a laugh, she nodded and pulled herself up. Coulson did the same and both made their way to the coats. Grace wrapped herself in several layers of scarves in attempts to cover her face. He observed her but didn't say a word.
"I noticed the lack of decorations." Coulson prodded.
"Bah Humbug!" Grace quoted, followed by a series of giggles.
Coulson joined soon after, unable to hold his laughter.
Just for Tonight, the two will forget about Shield, Mark and the rest of their problems. Tonight they'll pretend that they're two different people who wanted to get together and hangout for the holidays. And without much worry, the two went out and as they did, they were mildly hit with a blast of cold winter chill. The small snowflakes falling on them they both smiled without looking at one another. Enjoying the weather for once.
AN: I had nice time writing this. Constructive Critism is welcomed, it helps me improve. Reviews are apprieciated, it lets me know if, you the readers, are enjoying the story or not. Happy Holidays everyone and A Happy New Year.