Hi, thanks for reading! It's Thanksgiving and everyone's invited
Any comments, feedback welcome, I hope you enjoy the chapter. X
Disclaimer: This is a work of fan fiction using characters from Marvel Comics world, which is trademarked/owned by Marvel/Disney. All characters created and owned by Marvel and I do not claim any ownership over them or the world of Marvel. I am not profiting financially from the creation and publication of this story. Just a story based on great characters. I only own any original characters.
Chapter 27: Thankful and Fateful
'Did you ask him?' Amelia calls through the apartment. Andi looks up from her computer, 'I did, but you know how he is, not mister reaction, frankly, I think if Steve is there, his soldier minion will also be there.' Amelia looks surprised at that, 'Andi, be nice, you only just made up.' Andi just waves her off, looking through the photos as they upload to her desktop. She's working in her room and Amelia is floating in and out, chatting and folding laundry.
'I need to talk to you about Thanksgiving,' Andi clicks forcefully with her mouse and leans back into her seat, staring at Amelia with a big grin and expectant eyes. 'It's about Dad,' her big sister starts. Andi looks even brighter at the mention of her father. Amelia stands in the doorway, looking cautious, 'he's bringing someone, a woman.' Andi muses on this and her face slowly creases in disgust, 'a woman?' She asks in outrage. Amelia sits on the bed behind her, Andi turns in her chair to look at her sister. 'Not that Doris woman from the dog place?' Andi asks tersely, Amelia nods calmly 'yes and her name is Dana and it's a grooming parlour, please try to be nice.' Andi spins back to her computer, keeping her back to her sister, watching the pictures as they continue to upload.
Amelia talks quietly 'look, I know this is hard for you, but there was a good chance that this would happen at some point. I've only met her twice, but she's nice! They seem really happy.' Andi mimics her sister and shouts, 'you think everyone is nice! Just because you're in love, doesn't mean the entire world has to be.' Andi sits back, sulking quietly, realisation creeps over her face, 'wait, no, tell me they aren't bringing Petch?' Amelia stands and creeps up to her sister, leaning down and resting her chin on Andi's shoulder, spotting what is on her screen. 'Well, hello Mr November,' she says through laughter, Andi looks puzzled and searches her room, focusing on the computer and clocking pictures of Bucky uploading one by one. His chiselled chest, metal arm and brooding frown fill her screen. Andi thinks about minimising the window, but then decides Amelia flaunts her superhero around the place enough, she has nothing to hide. She folds her arms smugly and smiles, watching the pictures flashing past. Amelia whispers into her sister's hair, 'yes, they are bringing the dog and they are staying for two days. So is the dog.' Andi groans loudly and Amelia grins 'now, show me these pictures.' Amelia's phone rings and she drops her forehead onto Andi's shoulder, 'ughhhhh, I should get that, but I want to see, so bad. Wait for me!'
She runs for the lounge and finds the ringing phone on the coffee table. Nearly missing it she gasps a hello, as she picks up. 'Hey, it's Steve, you ok? You sound out of breath?' Amelia laughs and swallows, licking her lips. 'Yeah, just looking at photos of Bucky, topless.' She hears Andi call her name angrily and Amelia winces at her error. Steve coughs on the phone and draws out an, 'okayyyy?' It sounds more like a question. 'I'm glad you phoned,' she wants to move on quickly. 'Thursday is Thanksgiving, Bucky is coming and so is my Dad, he's bringing his girlfriend and his dog. Rosie will obviously be here, me as well. I'm cooking, if I wasn't here, there would be no dinner. Are you free? You'll be here? right?' She rabbits on and Steve's chuckle cuts her off. 'Amelia, of course I will be there. I gathered you were busy making plans, I'm not offended.' Amelia lets out a breath, 'it's more like, we spend so much time together, I just presumed you would be here and then I realised I hadn't really invited you properly. If there's anyone else around, Clint, Nat, they are welcome as well.' She hopes Steve is smiling wherever he is, as it's gone quiet on the phone. 'That's really kind of you, I will put the invite out there.' Amelia looks around the flat, she's not sure where she will put everyone, but it's the thought that counts, she's certain they won't take her up on the offer.
On Thanksgiving day, Rosie shoots out of her room, she reaches for the front door and she comes face to face with four adult legs and a four furry legs.
She's wearing an ochre dress with a long sleeve and a plum coloured shirt underneath. She's also sporting a paper headdress, that she made in nursery, with hand-drawn leaves and pumpkins. 'Grandad! You're here!'
A small dog playfully knocks Rosie off her feet, licking and jumping at her. 'Dad, I just dressed her, get him off,' Andi moans as she walks into the room, batting the dog away. Peter pulls the dog away, calling his name softly. A woman beside Peter picks up the dog under her arm, she coo's lightly at it and the pup calms slightly. Andi walks over and scoops up Rosie, who is lying on the floor, pretending to be asleep. She cradles the little girl as she tries to reach for the dog. Andi leans in to welcome her dad, wishing him happy Thanksgiving, Rosie squeals and copies her aunt. Rosie pauses at the women beside her grandfather and he must sense it, as he politely offers, 'Dana, this is my youngest, Andi and my granddaughter, Rosalyn, well, Rosie.' Rosie's not too sure, she tucks her head into the crook of Andi's neck and Andi sticks out her hand confidently, 'nice to meet you. Finally,' she directs finally at her dad. She's civil, but a little brisk. Dana looks like the old version of Ally from The Notebook, she's so smiley and softly spoken as she nods hello. Andi can't believe it, she's warming to her already. 'It's so lovely to meet you all. Your father is so proud of you, he talks about you non-stop,' Andi nods, 'well I have an actual job now, so he can bask in that.' She closes the door and waves them in, pointing out places for shoes, coats, bags, gifts. She eyes her dad at the mention of presents, always on the scrounge. Peter ignores Andi and takes Dana's coat, kissing her cheek. Rosie pulls a disgusted face, wondering who the lady is and why her grandfather is kissing her.
'Who is joining us, then?' Andi puts Rosie down and counts on her fingers. 'All of us, you, Dana, Petch,' she drawls out, through gritted teeth. 'Bucky, Steve, Natalie, Bruce and Natasha.' Dana jokes lightly, 'two Nats, that must be confusing.' Andi ignores the chatter and stares at the dog at their feet, he's already found something to chew and destroy. Peter follows her eyes, but then asks 'just remind me who they all are again?' Andi sighs 'Dad, you're not nearly old enough to have forgotten all of this.'
Andi shows them to the breakfast bar and encourages them to sit, offering them a drink each. Dana notes how lovely the place is, Andi graciously takes all the credit. The kitchen is decorated with more paper leaves and hand drawn pumpkins, that looks more like oranges. The window ledges are stuffed with seasonal vegetables of varying colours and sizes and the table is decorated in orange and white. Andi starts to list people off, 'Steve is Amelia's B-O-Y-F-R-I-E-N-D, they are so cute, it's everything, it will make your heart melt. Dana, you will recognise him, I'm sure. Natalie is from Mia's work, you remember her dad.' Andi does a large breasted action and Peter blushes, shaking his head and pretending not to know. 'Bruce and Nat work with Steve, the red head and the wizard from the party? And Bucky is Steve's best friend.' Dana leans forward asking, 'and is he your boyfriend?' Andi looks mortified and Dana stumbles, 'sorry, your dad said you were very close at the party. I just thought…' Andi shakes her head, 'we are just friends, no labels or anything.' Dana looks guilty and leans back in her seat, 'I'm sorry, my mistake.'
'Ignore her, Dana, they are basically a couple, it's just Bucky has some personal things going on. Andi here, is just being difficult,' Amelia announces as she walks in. She greets everyone and kisses her dad and then hugs Dana warmly. 'It's so nice to see you again, Dana!' Andi is sceptical and wonders if anyone else is this nice in the world, then she sees her dad telling his dog off way too politely and she realises there is at least two of them.
'Hi Petch,' Amelia says brightly, bending and patting the dog. Dana comments 'Amelia, you look so well. Very happy, glowing.' Andi jumps in with 'you would too if you were getting ploughed nightly by you know who.' There's silence and Rosie opens her mouth to ask, but a knock at the door saves Andi a scolding.
'I'll go,' Rosie cheers. Amelia keeps one eye on the door as she opens it. 'Hello Chica!' Natalie calls to the child as she walks in, 'you look fantastic, sister.' Rosie looks down at her dress and smiles happily. She then points and giggles at Natalie's turkey sweater. Natalie wanders into the kitchen, holding her hands up in surrender, 'don't worry, I didn't bring any ex-boyfriends with me this time.' Amelia and Andi look at each other and Andi jumps in to make introductions, then she gets to Dana and she almost chokes out the word, girlfriend. Amelia mouths over to her, be nice. Andi rolls her eyes at her sister's maternal efforts, she often thinks she didn't miss her Mom so much because she was left with Amelia.
Rosie runs over to her mother and tugs at her dress, calling to her repeatedly. Amelia bends down and whispers, 'what's up, little one?' Rosie twists her hands and her ankles, 'who is that?' She asks quietly, she looks up at Dana, smiling and laughing with her grandfather. Amelia grins and straightens the straps of the little girl's dress, 'we talked about this, that is Dan. She and grandad are special friends, they love each other very much and Dana is now part of our family. Remember?' Rosie nods absently, still staring at the older lady. 'Remember?' Amelia asks again, tickling her and tugging at her straps. Rosie giggles loudly, pushing her away, 'when will Stevie be here?' Amelia kisses her cheek, assuring her, 'soon.' Rosie beams at her proudly, 'he's my special friend!' Amelia squints, thinking that wasn't quite what she meant.
Natalie and Dana start talking about dogs, as Rosie feeds Petch snacks from the table. Andi watches on, the small papillon dog yapping profusely at her niece. He's mainly white with a bouffant tail and huge, furry, black ears. It's small, loud and Andi dislikes him. Since Evelyn moved out, Peter has always had a small, annoying dog to fill the gap. Petch has been on the scene for six years. Andi just stares at him from her stool, chewing on a carrot stick. 'You not a dog person, Andi?' Dana asks kindly, 'I like dogs, just not him.' Peter reprimands her, 'please be kind to him, when you moved out he was all I had.' Andi doesn't know if that's sweet or offensive to her.
Rosie is running around the flat, dragging a piece of string, being chased by the dog. Andi scowls as she watches and Amelia steps in beside her 'we are never having a dog, so you don't need to worry. But, you do need to be nicer to Dana.' Andi just sighs 'well, I agree with one of those things.' Amelia gives her a knowing look, 'I'm serious!' She warns as she backs away.
Dana offers her assistance and kindly asks when dinner will be. 'About an hour, you're good, I'm on top of it, thanks,' Amelia replies, she prompts Rosie, pointing to her bedroom. Rosie disappears for ten minutes, returning with a pile of paper hats. 'Apologies in advance folks, but it was a project at nursery and once we did two, someone decided everyone needed a hat.' Her mother walks Rosie around the room, handing out the paper bonnets to each person. Peter comments 'my, my Rosie, you've been so busy, you little creative bee, you.' She gives Dana a warm smile and once the older woman places the hat upon her head, Rosie smiles 'that's nice.'
In amongst all the fun, the door sounds again and Andi runs to answer. She doesn't stop to think before opening it, praying it's her non-boyfriend, Bucky. 'Nice hat,' Natasha says dryly, looking her up and down. Andi snarls, 'oh you've got one too!' The new group funnel in and Andi mutters, 'come on in,' as they barge through, knocking her with their coats and bags. Natasha walks into the flat and Bruce trails quietly behind her, giving Andi a small wave and a quiet thank you. Rosie appears, chanting 'Tasha!' She grabs the red head's hand and tugs her to the kitchen, 'meet Dana, Dana's here, come see.' Andi watches them, jealous at how easy the little girl has welcomed Dana into their lives.
Bucky stops and stands in front of Andi, he coughs to catch her attention, waking her from a daze. She looks him up and down, impressed at his black jeans, smart shirt combination. 'I like your leaves' he says pointing to her headdress. 'I like your face,' she responds cheekily. Andi smiles, remembering their impending date, she's quietly pleased that they are back in their groove. 'Ughhhh, I'm so glad you are here. My dad brought his girlfriend, if you can call her that at sixty. And his annoying dog, Petch, unbearable little shit.' Andi drops her head onto his shoulder, Bucky laughs, 'never would have pegged you as a dog hater.' Andi hits his chest lightly, 'don't get all righteous on me now, I don't hate dogs! Hey, speaking of righteous, where is Steve?' Bucky looks shy, 'working, but on his way, I am assured.' Andi nods sympathetically and then jokes, 'why would he want to miss out on all of this? Anyway screw him, when are we going on this date?' Bucky watches her eyes sparkle. She grabs the straps of her dungaree dress and waits for his answer. He looks down at her, noting she looks shorter, no shoes, striped top and still two very long legs. She steps closer, 'and where are we going on this date?'
Dana is hovering by the archway to the kitchen, Andi senses her, closing her eyes and hoping to ignore the presence, enjoying Bucky's company. But she relents and calls flatly 'Dana, come on over, meet Bucky.' The white haired woman shuffles closer, despite the lacklustre invitation and stands beside Andi, following introductions she shakes Bucky's hand. Andi poises herself for the big reaction, but to her credit she shakes Bucky's metal hand and doesn't even look down at it. 'Such a good looking boy, Andi,' She grins widely at Bucky, nudging Andi, who looks on mortified. Peter joins them, 'not as good looking as her dad.' Dana agrees and giggles, Andi makes vomiting noises and Bucky enjoys how much it's making her squirm. Andi doesn't admit it, but it feels nice, a real family moment.
'How are you, son?' Peter slaps his shoulder and Dana stays close-by. Bucky straightens at the contact and the warm welcome. He just nods a little at the older couple, pushing his hands into his pockets. He looks up at the sound of Rosie's giggles and settles a little.
Amelia comes through removing her head-dress, smoothing her hair and smiling. Andi feels bad, but breaks the news that Steve isn't here, Amelia rebuffs it as no problem, returning to the kitchen. Bucky leans over and whispers in Andi's ear, 'hear that, good looking.' Andi huffs, 'get over yourself.'
After twenty minutes of chatting and mingling, the door knocks, Amelia runs for it and again ditches the paper hat, tugging at her dress. When she opens it, Tony is leant against the wall. Immediately her heart races, that something has happened to Steve. Then she comes to her senses, 'I thought you had plans with Pepper in Malibu?' Tony wafts a hand, 'all work and no play makes Pepper a dull girl, I heard about your party and here I am.' Amelia smiles warmly, welcoming him in and once he's through the door she leans against it and mutters, 'why aren't we doing this at the tower, rather than our crappy flat.' She grabs her hat, to avoid Rosie's telling off, and crams it on her head.
She walks into the kitchen with Tony and Dana jumps down off her stool, 'you must be Steve?' There's an immediate wave of laughter and Amelia blushes, Tony interjects, 'she wishes.' Dana laughs it off, 'I'm just kidding, I saw them on TV, I know what he looks like. I saw the sizzling chemistry.' Tony folds his arms, 'lucky you, I had to witness that in the flesh, it was sickening.'
There's another knock and Amelia sulks to get it, throwing the door open. 'Sorry I'm late, nice hat though.' She groans at the sight of Steve, having forgot to remove the hat this time. Then she really looks at him and his eye is circled in a purple bruise 'what the hell happened?' He starts to talk but she looks around and quickly drags him to her room. Sitting him on the bed and closing the door.
She cradles his head, 'Steve, this is a mess, what happened to you? Are you ok? Who did this?' She's stood between his legs and he looks up at her smiling, 'really it's nothing, it will go. By tomorrow probably. I am so sorry I'm late.' Amelia relaxes, it doesn't look that bad in the light of her room, she sits in his lap and kisses him deeply, muttering not late. Steve strokes her hair behind her ears, kissing her neck.
'Tony's here,' she says suddenly. Steve groans and Amelia moves to straddle his lap. 'You do have a knack of bringing him up in the moment.' Amelia laughs, gently touching his bruised cheek again, 'I wish it was just us,' she whispers. He strokes her back, 'you don't like Thanksgiving?' She shakes her head 'I do, I really do.' Steve kisses her again and kneads her back with his hands. 'I would just rather it was just me and you.' Steve smiles, agreeing and dropping his head onto her shoulder.
'My dad brought his girlfriend' she says quickly, killing the mood. 'And his dog...' Steve laughs. He looks down at her, 'nice apron' he says smoothly, 'does this do it for you?' She teases, 'some kind of Donna Reid, Betty Crocker housewife shtick?' He just looks away from her, chuckling.
'Are you sure you're ok? Everyone will ask you about this?' He nods, 'I'm just tired, busy few days.' He squeezes her waist and she leans in to kiss him forcefully, trying to push him back on the bed. He resists and against her lips mutters, 'your guests...' the door opens and Dana calls to her. 'Oh! Sorry, I did knock, twice. It's Rosie, she can't find the other paper hats. Um, hello, you must be Steve,' she offers a small wave. 'I'll just go…' she closes the door softly. Amelia jumps off him and sighs 'well, she could be my mom now, seen me making out in my bedroom, check.' Amelia leans down and kisses his cheek, placing a hand gently on his shoulder.
'Hey, I have an idea,' she opens the door quietly and calls, 'Rosie, can you come in here for a minute?' There's a patter of small feet and then the petite brunette appears at the door. She gasps and runs in, her hat slipping and stopping in front of Steve and jumping up and down, calling his name. Steve lifts her and sits her on his lap, he winces in pain and it doesn't go unmissed by Amelia. She reaches for his face, placing gentle hands on his cheeks, 'uh oh' Rosie gasps. Amelia sits down beside them and puts her head on his shoulder. Rosie slouches between them and pulls on both their noses. 'Mamma, Stevie hurt, kiss it.' Steve blushes slightly, but Amelia shows no restraint and kisses his cheek with a loud pop. Rosie claps and Steve smiles, enjoying the moment. 'You're late!' Rosie tells him off, 'Rosie…' Amelia warns, Steve apologises to her earnestly, 'do I have a hat?' Rosie nods proudly.
Andi appears at the door, 'you can't leave me out here! Please come back.' Steve sighs at her for ruining the moment, 'Hi Andrew, happy Thanksgiving!' Andi strolls in and joins them on the bed, 'I have a new theory on that, I think it's Martha at the front desk, she hates me.' Rosie crawls over and lies across all three of them. Andi says, 'well, that's decided, we will have to stay here now. Forever.' Amelia sniggers 'you're so mean, they are all lovely, give Dana a chance.' Andi huffs, 'Steve you're late and your eye, I mean, yuk.' Steve just nods, understanding where Rosie got that from. 'I'm fine, thank you for asking.' Andi laughs, 'obviously you're fine, you're in my sister's bedroom, doing who knows what.' Rosie repeats, 'who knows what.'
The door creaks open again, revealing Bucky. He just looks at them and throws them all a questioning look, raising a brow at Steve's eye. 'We are hiding,' Rosie shouts. Amelia turns to her sister, 'that is your fault, we aren't hiding. Rosie, we were just checking on Steve and I didn't want the nasty mark on his face to upset you.' Rosie ignores her mother's words and beckons Bucky to join. He awkwardly sits on the corner of the bed and the little girl laughs. Amelia looks at the newly formed group and tries to suppress the slight pessimist within her, who hopes this doesn't end or go wrong. Bucky looks stiff and uncomfortable, Andi gawping at him, 'umm something pinged out there, your chicken, maybe?' Andi laughs, 'it's a turkey, Barnes.' Rosie rolls in their laps, 'yeah, Barnes!' Amelia lifts her up, tickling her, 'no more copying please, missy!'
The door opens again, this time loudly, bashing the wall. Everyone groans. Tony stands there, 'ah, I see this is where the party is, you better come back, a Nat that is not our Nat is trying to eat Bruce for breakfast. Hmm, looks much better in here to the last time I rocked your world, Miss Miller.' He saunters off and Amelia ushers everyone out of her room, 'Andi get the turkey out, will you?'
Steve is the last to go and kisses Amelia's cheek beside the door, 'you're sure he just gave you a lift?' he asks jokingly. Amelia acts offended, 'I hope it's not me you don't trust, Captain.' Steve just gives her a look. Amelia makes a noise and hurries back into her bedroom, on her desk is a pile of paperwork, including more autumn hats. Amelia drops them on the bed and places one on Steve's head. 'Very fetching, now we both look like idiots. Oh, no more work talk I swear, but Monday is my Bucky interview, I thought I'd come over at the weekend, just to recap. I know he's nervous.' Amelia leaves and Steve can't help but question if this whole interview thing is a good idea.
When Steve and Amelia re-join the group, Natalie rushes over to welcome Steve, dragging him into a hug and kissing both cheeks. Steve pulls back dazed, 'gross, your eye doesn't look to good, Steve!' Amelia is trying to prep dishes and she keeps bumping into people. Nat's on a stool, Tony's looking through the fridge and Rosie is flying around. Natalie thrusts a potato dish towards Steve and he kindly accepts it. He skirts around the visitors and hears Amelia mumbling about too many people. Steve kisses the top of her head, 'everything is perfect.' She turns slightly, 'but why are we in my dingy three bed, when you live in a palace?' Steve laughs lightly, 'this is our first proper Thanksgiving in seventy years, so we aren't worried.' Amelia feels terrible now, 'and also, this is home. The tower isn't that,' he whispers to her. Amelia stares at him, her mouth gently falling open at his sweet words, she wonders if he means homely, or her home, maybe he means something more…
Andi notices Amelia's rosy face and ushers people to sit at the table. 'Steve!' Peter Miller calls, he approaches the Captain and Steve greets him formally. Peter tells him off and then adds 'it's good to see you, I see you had a think about our chat. I remembered my shovel this time, so keep up the chivalry.' Steve smiles awkwardly. 'Oh, Steve, this is Dana, my partner.' Peter calls her over proudly and Dana shakes Steve's hand. 'Peter's so proud of his girls, we watch the breakfast show every day and I said to him that you and her had chemistry, way back at that interview. Do you live here Steve? With the girls?' Amelia jumps in, 'we haven't actually told Rosie, not seriously yet and Steve has work, plus I don't think he would want to live here with us lot.' Amelia is draining vegetables and Steve looks at her with a confused squint, wondering if that is what she really thinks. Peter walks off with Steve, suggesting they take a look at those famous bunk beds, 'what happened to your eye?' Peter asks.
Dana is left with Amelia and she begins slicing bread under Amelia's instruction. 'He's a peach, you two seem very happy.' Amelia smiles, listening to the laughter that is filling her home, 'we are. You too, I mean I haven't seen my dad like this, well, ever!' Dana smiles, 'you should visit sometime, bring everyone.' She leaves with a quick squeeze of Amelia's hand and grabbing a plate of food.
Amelia sighs, looking around, deciding she is done. She laughs hearing Dana ask Steve what happened to his eye. She fights with her apron, hooking it on an ear and someone starts to help her. It's her dad and as he lifts it over her head, she brushes herself off. Peter gives Amelia a long stare, 'you've done good, kid.' She laughs, 'yeah, he's a keeper.' Peter shakes his head, 'no, I meant you, this, your sister, your daughter. I'm proud of you. I don't care who you date as long as he…or she treats you right.' Amelia grins at her dad's attempts, she smiles warmly at him, then turns and points at the turkey, 'I'll pay you in pumpkin pie to carve that.' Peter smiles, accepting a carving knife, looking over as his youngest daughter appears, 'trust me dad, he treats her juuuuuuuust right.'
Amelia strolls into the dining room holding the last two dishes. She sits down next to Steve and knocks her knee with his, 'sat together this time.' She looks around, the room is full, alight with chatter and laughter. Andi shouts, 'no cock blocker Scott this time!' People groan and Peter asks what it means. Amelia looks around, their six-seater table is at capacity, with two folding chairs from the balcony, Andi's desk chair and a stool. Bucky is sat beside Andi and Rosie is in-between Dana and Peter.
Tony taps his glass and stands up. Steve eyes him warily, not sure what to expect. 'Just a quick word from me. Amelia, I know it didn't work out between us, but Rogers is a solid second choice.' Steve pulls a face and Natalie gasps loudly 'you dumped a billionaire?!' Tony continues regardless 'I know we are meant to do the whole what are we grateful for, I'm sure there's a vibrate feature on that arm that Andrew over there is grateful for.' Andi rolls her eyes and Natalie laughs at everything Tony says. 'But umm, I'm grateful that there are people to listen to me and someone to cook dinner. As with the tower closed, there certainly would be no one to listen to me to or to cook dinner. Seriously though, no one has made me pumpkin pie since my Mom was around. So, quality and taste dependent, I'm pretty grateful for that right now.' Tony sits down and looks terrified at something Natalie whispers to him. Nat and Steve share a look and Steve can't believe how genuine and even normal that was.
Natasha calls 'how is your turkey, Rosalyn?' She nods and makes yummy noises.
Amelia reaches under the table and rubs Steve's leg, palming his thigh. 'So, Captain Rogers,' Dana starts. He squeaks out 'it's just Steve… Ma'…am.' Amelia's hand rises further up his thigh and he completely misses Dana's question. Her hand is warm and gliding over him. His knee knocks the table and everything rattles. 'Shit, my drink,' Andi calls. There's a sudden commotion and the dog is underneath everyone's feet. Andi looks beneath the table cloth first and then quickly up at Amelia's blushing face, having caught her literally red handed.
Everyone looks under the table and Steve squeezes his legs together to hide the effects of Amelia's hand. Andi calls, 'Petch, you little...' Circling Rosie's chair is littered turkey and it quickly becomes apparent she has been feeding the dog. When asked, she bites her lip and squints her eyes nodding with confidence. 'Well someone better pick it up, Amelia, care to get down there?' Andi offers, Bucky looks between the sisters and then at Steve's sombre face, he's staring intently at a bowl of peas. 'Andrea, why don't you like the dog?' Bruce asks. Amelia can't resist and spews, 'it tried to get in the bathtub with her once.' Everyone laughs and Andi kicks Bucky, 'don't laugh, it was freaky.'
Natalie is munching on her turkey when she asks, 'how long have you lot known each other?' All reluctant to speak, the five Avengers look at one another. Bruce is the most polite, 'I met everyone around the same time about six years ago, apart from Sargent Barnes. Natasha picked me up in India.' Tony wolf whistles at that but no one else reacts. Amelia fills in the gaps, 'Bucky only came back from war a couple years ago.' She's diplomatic and smiles softly at him. Dana interjects, 'my boy Nathan was in the army, we lost him five years ago. It was all he ever wanted to do, serve his country, protect his home. It's a nice thing to cling on to.'
There's quiet around the table, Andi looks towards her dad and he's holding Dana's hand and suddenly she feels like a real cow. Amelia looks at Rosie sadly and can't imagine anything worse. Steve remembers the feeling of wanting nothing more than to serve his country, but when he looks around the table, he wonders if he has found that something else. Dana waves a hand, 'don't stop on my account. Nathan loved Thanksgiving, he too was partial to pie, Mr Stark. Now, tell me miss Rosie, where did you make these fabulous hats?' The table lights back up with chatter and Rosie tells everyone about nursery and how she made the paper bonnets. Natasha asks 'what are your day jobs?' Peter explains, 'no espionage here I'm afraid, Dana is a dog groomer and I'm a high school teacher. Well, I was a math teacher, retired teacher now. These days I mainly spend my time working on my model train set.' Andi makes a snoring sound from her end of the table 'God, dad, you make yourself sound so cool.' Peter looks across at Andi pointedly, 'Andrea, I have everything I want in this world, there's no one to impress anymore.'
Tony snickers and mouths Andrea to her, she flips her middle finger his way. 'Dana and I actually have some news.' Andi audibly gasps and holds her breath, 'we are moving in together. We've been living together for a while, but Dana's place just sold, so it's official!' Natalie leads a chorus of awww's and Andi gulps her drink, before offering her congratulations. 'Good for you, Pete!' Natalie calls, 'that's really nice, sir,' Steve offers. Andi and Amelia share a look, the older sister offering a comforting nod. 'I live with mommy!' Rosie shouts, spooning peas into her mouth.
Later, Rosie is folding her napkin repeatedly and without looking up she asks 'Dana, are you my nana?' Amelia half apologises and Dana shakes her head, 'well I am already a Nana, so I see no reason I can't be yours as well.' Rosie smiles widely. 'Grandpa?' Peter wraps an arm over the back of her chair and leans in 'do you love Nana Dana?' She's shy as she asks and Amelia smiles tenderly at her daughter's naivety. Even Andi softens at the word Nana. Peters leans in and whispers loud enough for everyone to hear. 'I love her very much, sweet pea.' Everyone coos sweetly at the older couple and Tony coughs awkwardly, swigging his wine. Rosie then continues, 'Mamma loves Stevie.' The room goes quiet and Peter coughs 'oh, I thought you didn't know about that?' He asks in a singsong voice, Rosie giggles, 'I know everything.' Everyone looks at Amelia who's head is buried in her napkin. Steve looks wide eyed and pink in the face, but Rosie catches his attention when she squeals, 'and I love Stevie toooooooo.' Steve can't help the huge grin that explodes on his face, looking at the little girl. Bucky gives him a look and a nod, telling him to go for it. Steve reaches over and gently tugs the napkin from Amelia's face, she fights to keep hold of it and then tries to use her hands in place. 'Rosalyn is right, I love Amelia very much and you as well miss Rosie.' Andi chants kiss loudly and Steve hesitates before Amelia laments and gently pouts, she mutters, 'PG13,' as he leans in and they kiss quickly. Everyone cheers, there's cat calls and banging on the table, Andi shouts 'you two should get married.' Steve pulls away from Amelia and looks her in the eye. For a minute, most people at the table think he is going to do something rash. 'So, who is grateful for what?' Someone asks, Tony adds 'quick, before Steve get's down on one knee.'
Steve and Bucky insist on clearing up, they are stood washing and drying. 'Thought you were going to pop the question for a moment earlier.' Steve is quiet and keeps scrubbing dishes pensively. 'Would it be so bad?' Steve finally asks gently. Bucky stumbles over his words 'I guess it would be considered a little soon?' He queries and Steve just sighs 'but I don't measure time like everyone else, do I? I waited before and look how that ended.' Bucky leans in, 'stay away from the ice and we should be okay.' He piles up dishes, 'Rosie's on to you, not as subtle as you think.' He chuckles and Steve smiles, remembering her face earlier 'neither are you apparently, Amelia was getting flustered by some topless pictures of you the other day, know anything about that?' Bucky halts, he feels a little pride that he can still have an effect on the ladies. 'Just a project with my gal,' he says smiling, Steve is surprised by his words, but plays it down. 'Well, I think Amelia will be first in line if you release a calendar.'
Bucky finds Andi sat on her bed, 'hey, just taking five. Full on, right?' He stands opposite her, 'I guess. Your umm… Dana, seems nice,' he simply says. Andi looks at the floor, 'yeah, she is, isn't she?' Bucky senses her sadness. 'That dog's a nightmare, though.' She laughs, suddenly warming up, 'that's the sexiest thing you've ever said to me. I mean it!' When she looks up at him, he asks 'why are you so unsure about her?' Andi sighs, lifting her legs and tucking them beneath herself, crossed. 'It's not her, it's just always been the three of us and then Rosie, but no Mom or women, he's literally never showed any interest in anyone.' Bucky understands, 'I get that, it's just me and Steve and now there's all these other heroes floating around and these women, that we just can't seem to shake,' he jokes dryly. Andi puts her hands on the bed beside her and leans back. 'Maybe if you just got on with it and took one of them out on an actual date, then you would know,' she dares him. 'Know what?' He questions. 'If they or she is really worth it?' Bucky looks Andi in the eye and says seriously, 'that much I do know the answer to.' She blushes slightly under the intensity of his gaze. 'What's going on out there?' She asks, 'charades,' he responds flatly. Andi impersonates a gun to the head and lies flat on her bed. Bucky walks across to her and leans over, offering her his hand. As he pulls her to stand up, their feet touching, Bucky whispers, 'Saturday afternoon?' Andi pulls a face of confusion, 'the date?' Andi catches on, she smiles excitedly. 'Where are we going?' He mutters, that he will let her know and she argues, 'you don't know, do you?' Prodding his side. 'Keep thinking that, Andrea.' He's trying to rile her up, she huffs 'that's the third Andrea today.' Then she whispers 'but when you call me it, I feel my knees wobble.' She smirks at him and then asks in a breathy tone 'can I call you James?' He freezes and she thinks she caused a problem, concerned he's about to lose it, she considers grabbing her most prized possessions for safety. He shakes his head lightly and then says, 'not if you want to leave this bedroom.' His eyes are dark and Andi wants to curl into him and take serious advantage. Then she hears her family in the lounge and she recalls its common decency to join in. 'Charades are calling,' she says quietly. 'But hold that thought until Saturday. What about Jamie?' As they head to the lounge they see Tony sat in a chair with a glass of fizz, 'no Free Willys people!' He declares.
Late into the evening only Bucky and Steve remain. Peter has put Rosie to bed and he and Dana are now preparing to retire. Dana gushes, 'Amelia, are you sure you will be ok in with Andi? We really can sleep on the pull-out.' Amelia waves them off, Andi jumps in, 'she loves sharing with me, just like the old days.' Amelia cringes, she's dreading a night with Andi, she fidgets, talks, leaves the light on and is on her phone until the early morning. Andi whispers to her, 'hope you hid your rubbers, don't want dad knowing what you get up to.' Amelia runs a stressed hand through her hair, seriously considering if she moved everything she should have. 'Good job I didn't put them in your room then!'
Peter bids the men goodnight and asks if they will be joining them for breakfast in the morning. Steve and Bucky look unsure and Amelia insists, 'yeah, of course you're welcome, unless you have plans? Or work?' Steve smiles gratefully. Peter continues 'where are we going again, girls? A diner that you like, Andi?' Bucky is surprised she wants to return after last time, but smiles at her undeterred attitude. Steve doesn't recognise the name and Bucky's whispers 'you're gunna love it, punk.' Andi hugs her dad goodnight and then awkwardly stands opposite Dana. 'Thank you for coming,' she says in a quiet tone and then she throws her arms around the woman, giving her a big hug. She pulls back and comically remarks, 'see you in the morning, Nana Dana,' repeating Rosie's words warmly. Once they are gone Andi hugs her sister around the waist and asks Steve, 'jealous Cap, that I get this one all to myself?' Amelia groans and Steve doesn't admit it, but he is a little, 'one of you can always come back with us? Steve offers. Andi smiles, 'nice try, but this is Amelia's penance for letting that dog come for dinner.' At the mention, Petch barks and appears at Andi's feet. She lightly waves her foot, trying to usher him away. Bucky laughs 'I see you are as good with dogs as you are with gold fish.' She stares at him, warning him not to go there. Amelia's eyes widen, 'no, no fish. Not here. Not in this house.'
Later, the four are sat in the lounge. Amelia has her feet in Steve's lap, Bucky and Andi are sat beside one another, looking through a photo album. Steve looks over, 'who is that?' Andi says, 'My Dad and my Mom, when we were young.' Steve comments how different they look, Andi barks 'yeah, he was miserable then, she's a controlling old cow.' Amelia tuts at her sister, sipping her hot drink. Steve plays with her toes and she giggles every time he strokes her instep. Andi flips the page and there's a young Amelia, brown curly hair and missing one front tooth. She's wearing a pink Barbie bike helmet and is stood beside a pink bike with streamers and a basket. Bucky looks at it, 'this could be Rosie' he comments. Amelia jests, 'oh good, she is my daughter then.' Steve asks to look and then raises an eyebrow at Amelia, 'I didn't think you liked a bike.' Andi laughs and says, 'that's as close as she ever got to it, used to walk it around the park, she just liked the bell.' Amelia is mortified and tries to justify why she can't ride a bike. Steve strokes her leg reassuringly and laughs telling them a story about Bucky ploughing his bike through old Mr Kemper's rose bush. Bucky tells them about Steve filling a woman's pond with papers on his round, because his aim was so bad.
Andi continues flicking through, telling Amelia off for the poor ordering of the pictures. Andi laughs loudly, 'look at this, the dance! Look at Scott.' Steve tenses a little and Andi asks jokingly, 'now is this before or after he threw up?' Amelia purses her lips unimpressed, 'Oh haha, my dress wasn't that bad, the theme was 80s prom, it was some fundraiser.' Andi passes them the album and Steve stares at the photo, Scott is karate kicking and Amelia is giving him a side eye, she has a blue dress on and a white flower strapped to her wrist. She looks embarrassed and her hair is piled up like a pineapple. Steve lets out a small laugh and Amelia shouts, 'next!' Flicking the page over. Amelia swoons at the sight of a new born Rosie. Andi leans over to look 'I took these!' Amelia looks red in the face and her cheeks gleam, she's holding a wrapped-up Rosie, who looks almost purple and Amelia's hospital gown is hanging off one shoulder. 'Who was there?' Bucky asks. Amelia looks up at Andi, 'just us.' Andi's in the next photo, a selfie of her in the foreground with Amelia still holding Rosie in the back. Steve traces the picture with his finger, 'she's so small.' Andi ruins the moment, 'yeah, ugly little thing, all shrivelled, took her a couple of days to uncurl.' Amelia sighs angrily, 'don't be mean.'
As they continue through the book there are pictures of Andi at college, Amelia and Natalie, Andi and friends. Then there is one of Andi and Greg, she's kissing his cheek and she groans at the sight of it, trying to turn the page, Bucky rests a hand on it and stops her. He stares at the picture through angry eyes, 'are you at the bar?' Andi nods and quickly swipes the book, turning the page. 'Amelia!' She calls at the sight of a two-page spread. There's Andi with Greg at a wedding, Andi and Greg rock climbing, Andi and Greg on a boat and Amelia and Greg at the same wedding. Steve reaches over and Bucky passes him the book, despite Andi's protests. As Steve looks through, he's drawn to the one of Amelia and Greg. He looks at her differently than he does Andi, but Steve keeps the observation to himself. He looks at Bucky reminding him not to mention anything. Andi grabs the album back and continues to explore. Amelia sighs, 'sorry, I haven't picked them up in years,' she stands, offering to make more drinks. She climbs off the sofa and goes to the kitchen. Steve follows shortly after; Bucky and Andi watch him go.
'Do you think they are necking off in there?' Bucky pulls a face and wraps an arm around Andi, resting on the back of the sofa, 'do you ever let up?' She says 'nope,' confidently. 'Look at this' she whispers, flicking to the back of the book she shows him a pile of new photos, not yet stuck down. Steve and Amelia at the party, a magazine cut out of Steve from the scholarship gala, Andi, Amelia and Steve and one of Bucky on a carrousel horse with Rosie. Bucky stares at the pictures and then coughs, 'stalker' Andi looks appalled, 'that's rich, don't forget we've already been on a date, Barnes, I just didn't know you were there!' He laughs, 'it didn't look like much fun to be honest.' Andi rolls her eyes, 'well, then you don't have much to live up to, my standards are very low. He doesn't even talk to me now, think I came on too strong or you did in the lunch queue.' Bucky pulls her close, 'he's a fool then.'
Waiting for the kettle to boil, Amelia looks out of the window, it's dark and she can only see herself. Leaning forward she tries to fix her hair a little. Looking for a mug, she smiles that Bucky and Steve have put everything in the wrong place. She spots Steve in the window, but pretends not to and when he slips two hands around her waist, she leans back into him. He puts his hands on her tummy, 'you looked beautiful pregnant.' She moves his hands to her waist, she laughs very loudly, 'the sex you are getting must be unbelievable, because that is anything but true. I was huge, swollen, angry, hungry and horny. And all at once.' Steve laughs and pushes her hair to one side, kissing the back of her neck. 'I bet that's not true,' he says in-between kisses 'and the sex is incredible.'
Amelia moans, dropping her head forward and closing her eyes. 'Have you had a nice time?' She whispers hoarsely and Steve laughs at her attempts at normal conversation. He kisses her neck again and says genuinely, 'yes, it's been fun. Your family are swell and you are a great cook.' She sighs out, 'I'm good with my hands.' Steve stops and pulls away, 'speaking of which, I've got a bone to pick with you.' Amelia knows what's coming, muttering 'bone being the operative word.' Steve turns her around and boxes her in with his arms against the counter. 'That was very off putting at dinner,' Steve's attempt at telling her off and sounding firm, only makes Amelia more giddy and she reaches down between them, eyes twinkling, running both palms down his thighs, 'was it this, that clouded your judgement?' She asks innocently. Steve's eyes flutter closed and Amelia leans in close, cupping him, she kisses him heatedly. Steve pushes a hand into her hair and wraps his other under her thigh, hooking it up slightly. Her dress rolls up and reveals stockings. Steve pulls back and looks down at her thigh, he growls a little and Amelia whispers to him 'I wish you had the suit on, God, that would be amazing.' Steve smirks at the thought of her striping him out of it and suddenly he's definitely more inclined towards the get-up. He pulls on her strap and her stocking springs loose, kissing her lips and reaching to cup her behind. 'Oh God, we should stop, tell me to stop.' Steve grins as he kisses her, muttering, 'no.' She pulls at his shirt, tugging it from his pants and caressing the dip in his spine. 'Everything about you drives me crazy,' she groans. Amelia arches into him and leans backwards, she lets out a gasp and Steve smirks, he kisses her neck, gently nipping and sucking and then she shouts, 'dad!' Steve smirks until his brain catches up and drops her thigh, straightening but holding her close, to hide his excitement. As he slowly looks over his shoulder he knows what he's about to find. Peter is stood there in his pyjamas and an empty glass, 'just came for water,' he says numbly. He stares at them and no-one moves. Amelia is gathered in Steve's arms and when she tries to pull away and readjust herself, he pulls her against him tightly, she squeaks at the feel of his hardness and understands the need for the closeness. Peter walks over to them and Steve fears he's about be asked to leave. Peter looks behind, nodding to the sink, they understand and shuffle left, letting him fill his glass. He checks the temperature and allows the tap to cool. Staring out of the window, as he fills the glass, turning the tap off. He drinks half and sighs out loud, before emptying it and refilling the glass. It's like torture and as if he's forgotten the tangled pair next to him. Turning to leave, he calls, 'goodnight Amelia, goodnight Steve.' Amelia just stares at Steve 'that's never happened to me,' she says quietly. Andi calls 'it's happened to me! Many times.' Steve has calmed down and pulls away from Amelia, she can plant both feet firmly on the ground. 'We need another weekend away,' she says seriously. Steve agrees whole heartedly, 'what do I do? Should I apologise? Ask for permission?' Amelia is horrified by all of these suggestions, 'don't do anything.'
Bucky and Steve leave at around eleven and Amelia is lying in bed beside Andi. She has a lamp on and is flicking through her phone, the light is unbearable and Amelia tosses and turns, trying to escape the glow. She wraps the blanket over her face, 'can't you turn that thing off?' Andi rolls her eyes. 'You are such a grouch, is it because you didn't finish? Go in the bathroom and sort yourself. I won't tell anyone. Steve will bust a vein if he knew you did that!' Andi laughs. 'Not with dad here!' Andi shakes her head 'didn't stop you earlier.' Amelia slips further into the bed remembering that embarrassing scene.
'What about you and Bucky?' Amelia asks from under the covers. Andi finally drops her phone and rolls to face her sister. 'We are going out on Saturday, on a date.' Amelia reappears from the sea of bedding. 'Really? Where?' Andi shakes her head, 'I don't know, but he's so sweet. I can't wait,' she kicks her feet with excitement and gets Amelia's leg, her sister howls in pain and Andi tells her to be quiet. She reaches over and switches the light off, Amelia relaxes and then a voice asks 'do you think dad and Dana are doing it in there?' Amelia almost chokes, 'please don't,' Andi puts the lamp back on and Amelia squints, moaning. Andi picks her phone back up and turns away, once again kicking Amelia and rolling the covers away. Amelia fights to stay covered and Andi's face is lit up by her phone, 'what are you even doing?' Amelia asks impatiently. 'Texting Barnes,' she leans over and reads the massages, rolling her eyes. Amelia lies back and looks at the ceiling, 'Steve googled sex,' she says out of nowhere. Andi turns slowly, 'wait, what?' Amelia laughs, 'he wanted to check it hadn't changed.' She chuckles lightly, her heart warming at Steve using the internet for that. Andi laughs 'how considerate of him! And was it worth it, is it good?' Amelia turns to face Andi and tucks a hand under her pillow, 'it is mind-blowing, sometimes I think he has more than two hands, they are everywhere. I don't think he would believe me if I told him that, not sure how confident he is. Even in the kitchen earlier I had to convince myself not to carry on, he blinds me with sex, Andi.' She laughs loudly, 'sex haze! Steve brings on a sex fog. I mean I can see why, look at him. No offence, but how did this happen to you? Have you ever even asked anyone out?' Amelia goes quiet, she asks herself that most days, 'yes, Patrick actually.' Andi is apologetic and after a minute of silence, she asks 'is it huge?' Amelia just nods agonisingly slowly and pulls the blanket over her head again. Andi laughs raucously and there's a knock on the wall from Peter and Dana's room. Both girls go silent, Andi huffs, kicking her feet, 'I mean it's our house, can you believe this shit?' Amelia says no more and Andi goes back to her phone. Amelia pushes a hand through her hair, 'I want to get in the car and go over there, finish what we started, honestly, you were in the lounge, but I didn't care.' She shakes her head, 'nope, need to get some sleep.'
'Amelia,' her sister loudly whispers. 'Amelia, look at this.' Amelia had started to drift off, waking with a start, thinking it's Rosie pulling at her, but it's just her sister. Andi throws a leg over Amelia's thighs, locking her in and reaching around her shoulders with her phone. The light dazzles Amelia and she moans loudly 'look.' Amelia focuses on the screen, 'who is that? What is that?' She asks groggily. 'This is Greg's mom's Facebook. Look, there's Greg, new job, look at his shirt!' Amelia wakes up at the mention of Greg and eyes the photo with intrigue. She spots the Stark logo, 'this was two weeks ago, does he work there?' Andi looks confused, 'I dunno, I don't check Facebook. I haven't seen him there, shit I don't think I have.' Amelia sobers, 'why are you friends with his mother?' Andi shrugs, 'she was always nice to me, best thing about him.'
Andi and Amelia stare at the post, 'do you think Steve and Bucky know?' Andi asks, 'surely they would have said?' She switches her phone off and drops it between the pillows, like it's burnt her. She hits the light off and they both lie there considering what they've just seen.
AN: I hope you liked it, it's hard introducing original characters and where I have, it's to offer something to Steve or Bucky, like a sense of family, pressure of being the 'boyfriend,' meeting new people etc. I like the normalcy of things like looking at photos, charades etc.
Soon we come onto Bucky and Andi's big first date. The future looks fluffy!