AN: Hello! So this is the LAST chapter. Thank you so much to everyone who has read, commented, followed, lurked (I'm a lurker, so I feel ya). It's really been so much fun to write, explore and a real self-confidence challenge for me :D. In fact, I have loved it so much I have written a second part… but more on that at the end. Need to finish this one first!
It's an emotional rollercoaster this one. x
Chapter 47: I Forgot my Coat
Steve fights past people loitering near the bar, the exit, the queue for the restroom, wondering how she got out of the room so quick, the endless stares and gasping party goers only hampering his efforts. When he bursts into the main lobby, he exhales, appreciating the space and air. He looks either side and can see off shooting corridors, taking the left first, he breathes out when he spots Amelia trying to open doors. Two are locked and she manages to get in the third room. She hasn't seen him and she slips in, shutting the door behind herself.
Steve runs after her and stops outside, looking around, before he enters. She inhales, panicked at the thought of someone finding her, but relaxing at the sight of Steve. She immediately goes rigid again, thinking about being trapped in the small space with him. He looks around slowly and can now see they are in a coat closet. 'So much for air,' Amelia mutters. There's nowhere to sit or barely room to stand and she looks to the ceiling, 'God this is stupid.' She lowers her eyes to the floor, pinching her nose and she can feel his warm gaze all over her. When she looks up with wet eyes, to ask him what the hell he is doing there, he begins to walk in closer and she steps back, almost tripping and falling into a coat rail. She puts her hands up, 'don't! My brain goes fuzzy when you are near me, let alone touching me.' She turns to face away, but her eyes trail to his uniform, he's obviously made an effort and she won't even talk. Steve stands up straight and places his arms strictly at his side, proving to her that he wants to listen.
'Why are we in here?' He asks quietly, Amelia shouts back, 'we aren't. I am getting my coat, for that air, I mentioned.' She looks around hopelessly, she didn't even bring a coat. Steve appears to have the decency to not challenge her, he bites his lip and looks down, taking a deep breath. 'Amelia, I'm so sorry. I came here, because I love you.' Amelia turns to face him quickly, stepping in close. 'If you love me, where have you been? What about us? You left us Steve, after everything I told you! About Patrick, my mom, you left us, both of us. It's not just me you upped and forgot about!' Amelia throws her fist into Steve's chest and he allows her. She cries out loudly in frustration and then hits his chest again, 'you abandoned me.' She points angrily at herself, tears bubbling, 'I tried to be there. You abandoned Rosie, that poor little girl, naive enough to think that you are under the fucking weather!' She throws another limp punch at his chest and starts to pummel him repeatedly. It doesn't hurt, there's no malice only frustration. He stops her eventually and holds her wrists up to his chest, 'please don't do this, I need to make this right, promise you will hear me out.' Her eyes flicker to his mouth and she pulls away, hating herself. She wraps her arms around herself, feeling cold. She suddenly feels a flash of heat and anger, turning quickly to him, hand son her hips.
'Fine, tell me. First off, why are you here?' Steve looks awkward, like he didn't truly think she would give him a chance. 'Andi,' he merely says with a shrug. Amelia eyes him, 'what? Why… wh… why would she do that?' Steve steps in close, 'for you? She says you've never been so happy, as when it was you and me, when we were together.' Amelia looks him up and down as he approaches her, 'that was true then, but not now, look at me Steve!' She's beginning to shout. 'Look at me, does this feel good for you? Do I look happy?' Steve shakes his head and reaches his hands for her shoulders, but she retreats.
'London! Tell me what happened, why did you push me out like that?' Steve starts to open his mouth, but she cuts him off, 'I tried to be there, I tried beforehand, during, I kept trying! I gave you space, I respected your wishes.' Steve just shakes his head, muttering 'I know.' He's at a loss for words, not sure how to explain. He begins to dig in his pocket, pulling out an envelope. It reads Steve and Amelia tries not to look bothered by it, looking away, but her eyes constantly drawn back to what's in his hand.
'I was so happy, when we woke up that morning in the sun, New Year's day, in your room, your awful pink walls and music posters everywhere. Your nose was twitching as you slept and I didn't want to go home. I knew I didn't, if you had asked me to stay, I would have, maybe forever.' Amelia looks at Steve with wide eyes, confused. 'Then my phone went off and Peggy… Peggy had gone, and all I could think was, why am I still here? Why do I deserve to be happy? In her last moments, I was at my happiest, I felt terrible. I made her a promise once, one I couldn't keep and I couldn't keep this from happening either, I realised she was gone, forever this time.' Amelia frowns at him, wiping her nose aggressively. 'Every time I looked at you or even Rosie, I just thought I didn't deserve it and if I did, and something happened to you, then what? Losing Peggy was hard enough. But you…'
Amelia scoffs quietly, muttering 'well you did lose us and Rosie still got hurt.' Amelia is crying again, 'and you weren't there,' she spits with venom. Steve's eyes are wet, 'I know and that will forever be with me, but I can make this better. If you let me?' Amelia ignores his question, sobbing thinking about Rosie in that hospital bed. She slaps a few coats and the rack sways, turning back to him angrily, 'Sharon! What about that?' Steve looks down, 'she made a mistake, I put her right. I don't want Sharon. I never have. I want you.' Amelia folds her arms, unconvinced. He steps closer, 'I do. You and your self-deprecating jokes, your inability to hold your drink, your passion for your family, your sparkling eyes and twitching nose. I miss everything about you. Everything.' Amelia touches her nose sub-consciously and softens a little. 'How do you think that made me feel, Steve? You were kissing, kissing! It took you two months to kiss me! And it was me who did the kissing in the end.' Steve looks ashamed, 'I know, but it's you, only you, not Sharon and not...' Steve pauses, smiling sadly, 'not Peggy, not now.' Amelia looks timid and stares at the ground. 'You asked me if I would swap you for her.' Amelia puts her hand up to stop him, 'I know I did, I admit that was a low point, I'm sorry, that was unfair.' Steve licks his lips slowly, 'it matters to me, what you think, I don't want anyone but you, Peggy and I had our moment, but this is ours now, you and me. And for me, this is it.' Amelia looks up slowly and he looks desperately honest, but she can't bring herself to fully believe it.
'Ok, but where have you been since? Since the night at the hospital?' Steve looks over at her, surprised and confused, 'I stayed away, you asked me to.' Amelia throws her hands in the air and spins in the small space, 'that doesn't mean you do it, you dummy.' Steve looks unsure, 'I thought that's what you wanted...' She lets out a frustrated groan, 'God, Steve!' He looks at the ground and shakes his head at how bad this is going. 'Peggy once told me I couldn't speak to women...' Amelia laughs bitterly, 'you think?!'
She leans back against the coats behind her, they are both quiet and then Amelia looks up 'someone asked me to dance, at the bar, earlier. A man.' Steve looks at her, mortified, he mumbles, 'what did you say?' she shakes her head, wiping her eyes. 'I said no, I palmed him off.' Steve's heart rate decreases and he physically shivers at the thought of another man touching her. 'Were you interested?' Amelia sighs loudly, 'it was nice, someone looking at me, making eye contact, talking to me, asking me questions, looking fucking happy to be near me.' Steve knows this is to hurt him, but she also looks serious, she looks lonely and under confident, any progress they made washed away. He looks down embarrassed and upset.
'But no, I don't want anyone else' she groans, 'for my sins.' Amelia stands and rubs her arms, looking at the coats around her.
Steve rummages with something and she turns to look, he's opening his envelope and he stares at an unfolded piece of paper. Amelia understands what it is, 'Steve, you don't have to do this…' But he clears his throat and begins to read.
Dearest Steve,
He pauses and sniffs, she's not sure he can read anymore, she's not sure she can stomach more.
If you are reading this, then the inevitable has occurred. Know that I lived the fullest of lives, with wonderful friends and family and I owe that all to you. I know you will torture yourself, questioning if you could have done more, but life is worth more than that and I implore you not to waste one minute on those thoughts and what could have been.
'Then she mentions some other stuff, umm…' He fiddles with the paper, searching for the next relevant part.
Amelia seems like a truly perfect match for you, I know you will make a wonderful husband and a fantastic father.
Don't ever think we missed our chance, this was how it was meant to be, we made the most of it whilst it was in our grasp. Being your colleague, friend and first love was always enough for me.
Steve pauses and licks the corner of his mouth, his throat feeling dry.
I will always love you, Steve. Now it is time to go and live your life to the absolute fullest, never forget to dance at every opportunity and remember the real hero was always inside you.
All my love,
Peggy
Steve folds the note quickly and shoves it in his pocket. 'There's more but that's the gist.' Steve sniffs and looks up at Amelia, she wipes her eyes desperately, emotions bubbling from her. She doesn't know what to say, staring at the ground for a time and Steve contemplates leaving, not sure if it worked, knowing that was his last chance. He couldn't find the words, he thought Peggy's might help him, but Amelia can't even look at him now.
'I'm so sorry, Steve, I know what she meant to you.' He nods and reaches into another pocket, passing Amelia a note. Amelia stares at it and looks into Steve's eyes. He shakes his hand a little, encouraging her to take it, 'it's for you.' She reaches out a shakey hand and takes the note, her name is scrawled on a second envelope. Their fingers connect and Amelia tries to ignore his warmth and the familiarity of it.
Amelia carefully opens the envelope and unfolds a note. Her eyes skip to the end, confirming that it is also from Peggy. She double checks and it is addressed to her, not sure what's going on 'Do you want me to read it?' Steve shrugs, 'it's up to you, it's your letter, I haven't read it. I only opened mine this week. It was her who convinced me to come tonight.' Amelia holds his gaze, touched by the honesty of his words. She emits a sad noise, as she skims the note, she then laughs lightly.
Amelia tearfully reads, 'Dear Amelia…'
'Oh God, I don't think I can do this.' Steve offers to take it back, but she refuses, shaking her face of loose tears. 'No, no, I'm ok, I want to.'
It was so lovely to meet you in the fall, you are clearly a bright young lady with the world at your feet. Look after Steve and keep him away from any over-zealous blondes.' Amelia splutters and raises an eyebrow and looks at him, 'well, clearly you've been here before.' She shakes her head and continues reading. 'Steve doesn't think he is good enough, but we both know this is far from the truth, so don't let him forget it. Your…' she falters and looks away, biting her lip and restarting. 'Your little girl couldn't have a better role model to grow up with and I know he will do everything within his power to keep you both safe and sound. He will make a wonderful father, that I am sure of.' Amelia tears up and sniffs, 'please keep him safe, we lost him once, but he deserves his new start with you. With love, Peggy Carter.' Amelia wipes her eyes. 'That was... that was really sweet of her. She hardly knew me.' Steve nods from his spot in the closet, not making eye contact.
Amelia steps closer to him and reaches out her hand. He looks surprised and gently grasps it. Amelia watches their fingers intertwine. She stares at their hands for what feels like hours.
He drops his head to rest against hers, 'I'm scared, Steve,' she whispers and he nods an acknowledgement, 'I know.'
She asks quietly 'how do I know you won't do this again? Shut me out?' Steve grabs her hand tightly and mimics with the opposite hand. 'I will never push you away again. If you will have me, I want to be by your side for the rest of this lifetime and who knows maybe in the next.' Amelia stares at Steve's feet. Steve holds his breath, not sure she will give him this chance or if he deserves it, she finally looks up, 'you've had two, Rogers, I think you'd be lucky to get a third go' she smiles a little and leans into him, resting her head against his chest.
Steve buries his nose into her hair and Amelia's eyes close. Encasing her in his arms, he rubs his face softly on her cheek, kissing behind her ear. Amelia moans and puts her head back, allowing him to kiss the column of her neck. She curses and Steve smiles against her. He reaches a hand behind and trails it into her hair, brushing it over one shoulder and kissing her collar bone.
She pulls back and looks at him with wide eyes and parted lips. Her chest rises and falls and Steve is desperate to touch her. He tries to restrain himself and she just stares at him, like she's making a big decision. She reaches out slowly and touches his lips, tracing a finger over them. 'Don't ever run away from me again' she whispers quietly. She leans in suddenly, kissing him hard. He catches her and mutters 'yes, ma'am.' Kissing her back, gripping her ass and lifting her slightly. She kisses him feverishly, putting both arms behind his neck. When she pulls back he has red lipstick smeared across his mouth, but she giggles and leans back in, pushing a hand through his hair and tugging at it. She reaches down and grabs his tie, pulling him towards her.
'Should we be doing this? So soon?' He mumbles against her warm skin, Amelia sighs, 'if we don't and I over think anymore, we will never make it past this point.' She ignores his concern and kisses him again. Muttering, 'did I tell you, you look insanely good?' he pulls his lips away and holds her at arm's length, hands to her hips. He stares at her, heatedly, 'Amelia, you don't believe me, but you are the most beautiful woman in that room.' She blushes and reaches for his hands, grasping them in hers. Steve groans as she pushes herself against him and his eyes roll when she leans in and kisses him hard, he pulls back and asks, 'are you sure? It's just last time...' She cuts him off with a kiss, 'last time wasn't right, but don't think I didn't want to.' She yanks his tie, 'I want this, Steve, now.' Steve looks surprised and looks around the room, she pushes him back, he falls against a coat rack and she tries to straddle his leg, her dress making it difficult. She mutters expletives and Steve laughs, kissing her neck again and down her chest. She unbuttons his jacket and pulls his shirt roughly from his pants. He reaches for the back of her dress and tugs at the halter neck, it comes undone and hangs down. Amelia tugs it to reveal her underwear, a strapless corset, Steve stares at her, floored. Amelia watches him, 'what? I have had a kid, Rogers, how else is this all strapped in the dress, it's like a second skin.' He kisses the curve of her breasts, telling her, 'you're perfect.' Amelia sighs, rolling her neck and opening her mouth, enjoying the kisses on her skin. Again, she tries to slide onto his leg, but her dress is in the way. She makes a disgruntled noise and Steve reaches for her, pulling her close. He reaches down whilst kissing her and tries to lift the skirt, he growls and it rips in his hand, tearing at a side seam. Amelia pauses, wide eyed and open mouthed. 'Shit,' she says, looking down, 'that was exciting,' kissing him again, her hands work on his belt, she mutters, 'is this kind of disrespectful at a charity event?' Steve groans, 'I'll make a big donation, really big.' She smiles, grabbing him, 'how big?' She kisses him firmly on the lips and Steve pulls away, looking down at her with furrowed brows, 'you taste different.'
She laughs and coolly states, 'I had a cigarette with Bucky.' She continues with his zipper, realising he isn't moving, she looks up. 'What? Don't be jealous.' Steve springs into action, dragging her skirt up her thighs and lifting her up. 'I am jealous of him, but I'm sure you lead him astray.' She giggles against him. 'What did the man in the bar say to you?' Steve asks through gritted teeth, he's nipping her shoulder, and stroking her lower back. 'I don't know,' Amelia can't think straight. 'Think.' She opens her eyes and reaches down the back of his shirt. 'He wanted to dance with me.' Steve growls and kisses the top of her breast, squeezing her behind. 'Was he looking at you, like he wanted you?' Amelia swallows and nods cautiously. 'Was he looking at you in this dress?' Amelia fears she might just melt at his words, she nods. 'Why didn't you?' She gasps as he bites her neck. 'I couldn't.' Steve drags his hands down her back and squeezes her ass, 'Why?' Amelia closes her eyes, 'he's not you,' she breathes out and she leans back, offering her neck. She pulls them both and they nearly fall into a rail of coats. Amelia laughs and she reaches for Steve's buttons on his shirt. 'Are we good?' He asks her. She smiles, pulling at his shirt. 'Yeah, we'll be ok.' She kisses his chest, fully unbuttoning his shirt and revealing a tight, white vest. She makes an ungodly moan and Steve chuckles at her reaction. She pulls back, reaching into his pants, 'I'm still mad at you,' she says and Steve nods eagerly, losing any form of common sense.
Steve strokes Amelia's thighs, telling her how much he has missed her. He pulls her close, grinding against her. Amelia's dress is around her waist and Steve is undone, in every sense. He pulls her close, kissing her as she cups him through his boxers. He looks down and her stockings are slipping down her legs and Steve looks back to her flushed face, wild hair and closed eyes. He thinks she looks perfect and he can't believe she is giving him a second chance. 'I've missed this and you,' she says, breaking his thoughts. It's all the convincing he needs and he smiles at her, kissing her soundly, stroking her thigh upwards and dragging his hand towards…
Suddenly the door opens and an attendant walks in. The man stares at them and Amelia puts her palm over her eyes, Steve pulls her in tight, hiding his chest and hers, as well as his excitement below the waist. The man fumbles for his words and numbly points to a coat, his eyes caught on the entangled pair.
Steve looks up, 'sorry, my umm, wife, ripped her dress.' Amelia makes a choking sound, crossed with a laugh and presses her face into Steve's shoulder. The man blushes, looking between the two of them. Peering at Amelia's chest, pushed up against Steve. Steve coughs and the man looks up at him, his mouth slowly opening, 'aren't you...?' He asks in a whisper. Steve stares at him, daring him to finish the question, Amelia laughs and the man says, 'I need that coat, there.' He points over, 'ticket 246,' Steve sighs and closes his eyes, pulling Amelia tighter against him. The man steps in and Steve shakes his head briskly, stepping himself and Amelia backwards, he grabs a coat and passes it over. The man flashes the ticket again and Steve growls, realising he picked the wrong number. Steve chucks that one down and reaches for another. The man nods and backs away, watching them closely.
When the door closes, Amelia laughs hysterically. 'That was mortifying.' Steve stares at the door after the man, 'he was far too interested in you.' Amelia chuckles and says with a sigh 'take me home?' Steve looks back at her quickly and nods keenly, tucking his shirt into his pants and redressing. Steve stops and strokes her face, cupping her cheeks and kissing her firmly. 'Which home?' he asks, eyes sparkling. 'Let's go to your place, I'll talk to Andi.' Steve nods and watches her, readjust her dress and tie the neck. He gets lost admiring her, redressing himself slowly and she calls, 'oh and Steve?' he looks up at her, 'your fly is undone.'
Amelia manages to pull her dress together at the side and smooths her hair down. Steve gently pulls her out of the coat closet, leading her to the main event. Amelia stands on her toes and spots her sister and Bucky, still jiving. Amelia smiles at Steve and nods her head, asking him to follow. They head towards the pair and Andi pulls back from Bucky as they approach. 'Oh, Steve, what are you doing here?' she asks in an over the top manner, he tilts his head and Amelia says 'I know, you idiot! Quit pretending.' Andi looks between them and clocks their joined hands 'well, do I need to whack you with my olive branch?' She asks Steve, with one hand on her hip. 'No, but thank you for making this happen.' Andi bows a little, Bucky laughs at her, nudging her for being so direct.
Amelia leans in, 'look we are going to head out, back to the tower, do you think you could watch Rosie?' Andi says absolutely before she thinks of the night she's giving up with Bucky, but the smile on her sister's face makes it all worthwhile. 'But dance with me, before you go. Just us.' Amelia sighs happily, she passes her stuff to Steve and promises two minutes with her fingers. Bucky watches the women head to the centre of the room and he turns to his friend 'drink?' Steve agrees and they walk to the bar. They lean against it and look out, Amelia is laughing with Andi and matching her moves, Andi bends and tries to lift Amelia and she bats her away. 'Quite the pair, hey?' Steve smiles and nods. 'Thank you for taking care of them, while I was…' Bucky slaps his back and says 'no problem.' He scoffs, 'it's always been a fantasy of mine, two women…' Steve cuts him off, 'alright, alright, well I am back now. So no more cigarettes.' Bucky smirks, 'hey, she led me astray with that one.' Steve reaches for his drink and looks back at Amelia, 'I can believe that,' he says, thinking back to the coat closet.
'You got a little red on you,' Bucky wipes his own lip, showing Steve and making his best friend blush. Bucky laughs 'welcome back, pal.' They watch the girls in silence, they are enjoying themselves and Steve feels like he finally made things right. 'Hey, you know what this is all for?' Bucky shakes his head and Steve twists a donation bucket on the bar, Bucky stills as he reads the label and then smiles to himself, 'well that makes the uniform worth it, doesn't it?' Steve smirks at him, 'that's never been a hardship for you.'
Amelia chuckles at Andi's terrible moves and she shouts close to her ear, 'why did you do this?' She nods over at Steve. Andi dances and shouts loudly, 'nobody deserves to be happier than you, Mia, and I thought it was worth one last try.' Amelia hugs her sister closely, 'thank you' she says earnestly. Andi pulls free, 'don't cry! You better get going, it's been what? Four weeks? You'll be dried up down there.' Just like that, the moment is ruined and Amelia slaps her sister's arm. Andi steps back and looks over her, 'what happened to your dress?' Amelia blushes and turns to leave, 'look after her, I'll call you in the morning.'
As she returns to the table to check she has everything, Oliver comes up beside her. 'Amelia, did you want that dance now?' Amelia looks up at him, in confusion and then recalling the bar conversation. Her eyes dart to Steve and she smiles, as he chats with Bucky. 'I'm just leaving actually, my date was a little late, but he made it eventually.' She smiles at him and leaves. He turns and follows her with his eyes, they widen as she cosies up next to Captain America.
Approaching the bar, she can hear the friends chatting and she smiles, 'hey, I'm ready, if you are?' Bucky raises an eyebrow at them, 'guess we have had our last dance for tonight then, Mia?' She chuckles and looks back to the dance floor, 'you have all the Miller you need, Sargent Barnes and I don't think you could handle this.' She points confidently at herself and his eyes trail her in a sweeping motion, catching her ripped dress, 'I don't think I could,' he responds and she blushes, suddenly not so confident. She reaches for Steve's hand and she looks up with a cheeky grin, 'oh hey, Bucky?' She digs in her clutch and throws a pack of cigarettes at him, 'I quit.' She smirks and points at him, adding 'please look after my sister.' Steve finds himself being pulled away and looks back at Bucky, 'don't smoke those!' Bucky can't believe Steve's mothering, 'good night! Don't do anything stupid!' Steve grins and follows Amelia out, bending down and whispering in her ear, 'I think I can handle it,' she laughs loudly, beaming to herself.
Steve shows Amelia to the car, 'no way, is this yours?' Steve looks uncertain, 'again, it's Tony's but mine for tonight. Maybe I should buy a car, you always seem impressed.' Amelia chuckles, stroking the convertible, 'well the three of us can't fit on your bike!' Amelia makes an excited noise, she climbs in and buckles up beside Steve. Her split dress revealing her thigh and a mark from her accident. Steve's smile fades and he stares at her leg, gently reaching for it and stroking the scar. 'It's nothing, I'm fine.' Steve lowers his head and kisses her thigh, Amelia's eyes open wide and she grabs the head rest, shifting dramatically. 'Steve, people will think we are…'
'What? In love?' Amelia laughs, 'no, doing more than that. We've already been caught once.' Steve pulls back and strokes her chin, 'I'm so sorry I wasn't there for you both.' Amelia shakes her head, 'let's not go back there, please.' He starts the car and pulls out of the lot.
Amelia squeals at the wind in her hair and on her shoulders. Steve looks over, 'you never been in one?' She shouts, 'NO!' much louder than needed. He watches the road and as they wind up and over a bridge, she closes her eyes and throws her arms up in the air. Steve peeks at her and smiles, he remembers this is how happy he was before everything and how much he has missed her presence. She splutters, choking on her hair. 'It's so cold!' She screams, he hits some buttons and her seat begins to warm, she snuggles in cosily and watches the world rush by. She reaches over and strokes his thigh, not looking at him. When Steve glances down her hand is dangerously inching up his leg and she has the other arm out of the car, catching the wind. She shouts and spots the tower in the distance, rolling her head to look at him, 'so much better than the bike.' She sighs and stretches her legs out, exposing her thigh more. Amelia sings lightly under her breath and Steve can just about hear her, 'what is that?' he asks. She looks over, as if caught, 'nothing,' she says timidly, then she lights up, 'Andi told Bucky she loved him.' Steve looks surprised, 'that's… that's great, good for Bucky.' Steve drives closer to the tower and Amelia looks up at it, 'it really is ugly, better with your names on the side of it, rather than Tony's, that's the only saving grace.'
Amelia rummages in her bag and pulls out Peggy's letter, smiling at it and quickly hiding it back inside. Looking over at Steve she knew she always loved him, but it was Peggy who convinced her to trust her heart tonight.
Steve looks up towards his home and then circles down and under, into the basement garage to park the car. As they pull up, soft lighting kicks in along the floor.
Steve shuts the car off and looks over at Amelia. They hold each other's gaze and Amelia looks down shyly, like it's their first date. 'I don't want this to happen again.' Amelia stares up at him, his tone defiant. He grabs both of her hands and spills, 'marry me?' Amelia looks stunned and then laughs, quickly feeling bad and cupping his chin. 'The crazy thing is, six weeks ago, I probably would have said yes and dragged you up that barn aisle, but we need to settle again, all of us. But ask me again, one day, please?' He looks at his lap sadly, but nods and she adds 'maybe in a week or two?' She smiles cheekily and then says, 'I could swing you a key, you know for emergencies?' Steve laughs and looks over sceptically, 'what emergencies has he assisted with?' Amelia looks serious, 'sex ones.' Steve's eyes widen and she says 'oh no, not me!' Laughing hysterically, wriggling in her seat. Steve relaxes and offers her his hand, she draws patterns in his palm, before linking their fingers.
He looks anxious and stutters over his words, 'has there been anyone else?' Amelia considers if she should be insulted, but looking at Steve's scared face, she can relate to his lack of confidence. 'No way,' she shakes her head. 'Sam made a pretty good play, but I was able to resist.' She's joking, but Steve doesn't find it funny.
Once again she strokes his leg and she eyes him, then she looks around the empty garage. 'There's a bit more room in here, compared to last time.' She looks suggestively at Steve and he sighs, he begins to apologise for the night in the lot and then all of a sudden his arms are full of Amelia and her lips are on his. She pulls back and whispers, 'don't apologise, it was hot, but just a horrible apology and terrible timing.' She kisses him again and then looks up, 'do you think anyone will walk in here?' Steve ignores her and places a splayed hand against her shoulder blade, pulling her against him. She pushes both hands into his hair and smiles against his mouth. Steve strokes her waist, 'sorry about your dress,' he says quietly, but when she lifts herself from his lap and he can reach her behind, he decides he isn't that sorry. Once again she unties her dress and he strokes her face softly, then her neck and her shoulders. She leans against the steering wheel, throwing her head back and her hair drapes down her spine. She leans in and Steve holds her hips. She hovers above his lips, as if to kiss him and smiles wickedly, before releasing the seat and they both fall backwards. Amelia laughs loudly, pressing her face into Steve's neck. He mumbles about getting out of his uniform and she gives him a hungry look. Amelia leans back on her heels and looks down at him, he looks harassed and slightly rumpled in the best way. She bites her lip and runs her hand across his jacket, touching each pin. 'Thank you for coming tonight.' Steve looks surprised, 'you really don't need to thank me. Besides you could be dancing with that guy by now, I could have missed my chance.' Amelia looks at him with a smile. 'Oh, if this doesn't work out, I've got Sam on speed dial.' He growls and pulls her close, she loosens his tie and giggles into him. He looks around the dark garage and asks 'are we really going to do this?' Amelia nods, kissing his lips. They hear a noise and Amelia looks up quickly, confidence gone, 'I swear if that's Tony, I can never show my face here again.' Steve runs a finger over her cheek, 'it won't be but it could be someone.' She refocuses on him, 'I've missed you too much, for someone to interrupt this,' Amelia shivers at his gentle touch and seductive words.
Steve and Amelia just lie in the car for hours, cuddled in the back seat, Amelia has his jacket draped over her. She looks across and smiles at Steve's undershirt poking out, her vintage curls, it feels like a scene from a movie. Then she looks around at the futuristic cars and remembers where they are. She lies back down and Steve traces circles on her arm. Steve sighs loudly and she asks what's wrong. 'I've just missed so much, I've had my head so far up my...' he nods at her and Amelia laughs at his inability to curse. 'Well, you're back now and we can carry on where we left off, we don't have to lose anything. Rosie thinks you were working, well, that or I've chained you up somewhere, she just keeps telling me, "you lie mommy." It's eased up since she saw you, but at least you know that you have one fan.' Steve blows on her neck at her joke and Amelia reaches for her purse, pulling out her phone. She opens a message from Andi, there's a picture of her and Bucky, posing, it reads I am giving this up tonight, for you, never forget this. Amelia laughs, Steve peers over her shoulder and looks fondly at a Bucky he recognises well.
Amelia flicks to another part of her phone, 'here, I will show you what you missed...' She brings up her photo gallery and talks him through a month's worth of pictures. 'This is the day we moved in, Bucky helped us, Natalie made sandwiches and Bucky ate every single one, before we even got a look in.' She scrolls through, 'Rosie was unwell, we are cuddled up watching a film.' Amelia pauses, 'this is my car, after the accident, it's pretty beaten up.' Steve takes her phone and sits up, looking closely. He looks appalled and Amelia pries her phone from his hands, waving it off and continuing. There's pictures of Rosie's cast, Peter and Dana, Rosie and Petch, Bucky and Rosie, then there's a screenshot of something, that she tries to skip past quickly. 'What was that?' He asks. She immediately answers, nothing, and he grabs the phone, flicking back. There's an article from the internet, photos of Steve looking sad, in a suit at some event, the headline reads, Captain Without a Ship? Amelia blushes horribly and when he scrolls to the next image it's another picture from the article and someone has drawn a penis on his head. Amelia takes the phone back, 'Andi, sorry. Obviously Stark isn't keeping her busy enough. I'm so sorry.' She looks mortified and Steve laughs it off. She continues through the pictures and eventually they arrive at tonight.
'I can't wait for you to see the house, it's amazing.' Steve smiles warmly at her. He looks around and suggests they make a move. They tidy themselves and take the elevator, Amelia chuckles at her ripped skirt, shivering when she thinks of Steve's hands on her.
Bucky is walking past as the elevator opens, he raises an eyebrow at them, and tries to keep his comments to himself. 'I hope you were safe, kids?' Amelia defends, 'nothing happened! Sorry, no sauna talk for you two.' They both look horrified, that this is how she thinks they spend their free time.
Steve asks Bucky 'where's Andi?' Bucky smirks, 'I managed to pry her away, I dropped her home, picked up the baby-sitting Widow and yes, Rosie was asleep. Oh and there's this,' Bucky passes Amelia a bag full of clothes from the couch and she silently thanks her sister.
Amelia looks pleased and Steve interrupts, 'why don't we get them over for breakfast? Or we can go to the diner?' Amelia smiles and squeezes his hand, 'here would be perfect.' Bucky grins at them both, he nods and says 'I'll make it happen, nine too early for you two dirty stop-outs?' Amelia giggles and shakes her head. He slinks off and she watches him leave.
Steve leans down and whispers in her ear, 'I hope you aren't having any indecent thoughts.' She sighs and leans her head back onto his shoulder, 'it was a game, let it go!' But when she looks at him he's smiling and joking with her. 'The other two chose you, so watch out!' Steve looks surprised. Amelia turns to face him, 'don't tell him, but it's like I've gained a brother, I fear it would ruin his street cred though.' Steve strokes her hair, thinking of Bucky telling him something similar. 'Well, there's not many girls he's had me pinned up by the throat for.' Amelia looks shocked and stares up at him, 'wait, what?' suddenly she is being lifted and carried down the familiar white hall.
Amelia laughs and closes her eyes, dropping her head onto his shoulder. When she looks up, she is being lowered onto Steve's bed and she smiles looking around at the room, spotting a picture of her and Rosie beside his bed and the butterfly clip she left there. She feels a stroke of sadness and tries to refocus on the present. Steve towers over her and he starts to pull at his tie, 'whoa, no way, let me do that.' Steve laughs at her and cups her face, staring down into her eyes.
'You know I slept here, without you?' Steve looks confused, 'when we came back from my dad's.' Steve winces at the mention and Amelia mentally pats herself of the back for the great foreplay. 'Sorry, it was just weird and that was the last time I was properly here. Well, other than the time I confessed my love to the janitor.' Steve looks confused and then swipes a soft thumb under her eye and nods carefully, 'I'm so sorry, about everything.' Amelia kicks her shoes off freeing herself of them and looks up at Steve, kneeling on his bed, chest to chest with him. 'I know you are sorry, but we are here now, aren't we? No more looking backwards, okay?' He smiles and that is agreement enough for her, she runs her palms over his lapels and strokes the jacket, touching pins and buttons with her fingers, 'Why can't you save the world in this getup?' Steve laughs, 'it's old fashioned, I am not sure it really works anymore.' Amelia bites her lip, 'oh it works.' She drags her nail up his neck and across his jaw, sweeping his hair to one side, 'I miss the beard, but I like the comb over.' She smirks at him and he shakes his head looking away from her, 'is this payback?' She goes still and he worries they aren't there yet and his joke is too soon, 'oh, no Captain Rogers, if it was payback, I would have gone home.' It's Steve's turn to go still at her insinuation, she drags her hands down his chest again and reaches for the buttons of his jacket. 'Is this your uniform? Did you borrow it? Is there a naked mannequin at the museum?' Steve looks at her unimpressed. 'Sorry, I'll stop.' She reaches her hands to his shoulders, slowly working the jacket off, pausing, 'so, is it a collectible?' She asks seriously, he shakes his head and she knocks it off his shoulders with a shrug, 'that's ok then.' She reaches for his tie and works it loose, 'tell me, what have you been doing on these lonely, cold nights?' She looks up at him with sultry eyes and he sighs, 'beating myself up for being such an idiot and not writing poetry, like your sister suggested.' Amelia snorts and apologises, 'sorry, she can be harsh.' Steve looks down at her nimble fingers fighting his knotted tie, 'it's ok, I think she was right about everything else.'
'I actually have something for you,' Amelia rushes for her bag and digs through it, muttering, 'if I can find it.' She straightens and walks over to him, 'I know I said, not right now to the marriage proposal…' Steve looks embarrassed and looks at the ground. 'But… you still looking for that place to live?' Steve looks up quickly at her, she places her palm in his and drops a metal key into his hand. 'It's not Brooklyn, or made of glass like this place, but it could be home. As quick or as slowly as you want. Once a week, every day, once a month.' She laughs, her voice cracking with nerves, 'sex emergencies?' Steve stares at the key, 'I've had it in my bag since Christmas, since we moved. There's no pressure, really!' Steve closes his palm around the key tightly. 'I… thank you. I… this means…' Amelia pecks his cheek, 'you're welcome.' Steve falls into deep thought, he wants every day, but what about Bucky? Then there's Andi? He even finds himself thinking what will Tony say? But then he pictures waking up with Amelia and eating breakfast with Rosie and he knows this is what he wants, this is his way forward. 'Steve? You ok? I haven't scared you, have I?' Steve shakes his head briskly, 'no, I can't wait. I'm in.' Amelia grins and returns to his tie, 'I expect eggs at least once a week for breakfast!' Steve looks down blushing, once again looking at the key. He looks back to her face, earnestly, 'thank you. For the key and the second chance.'
Once undone, Amelia grabs either ends of the tie and pulls Steve close, kissing his cheeks and neck, avoiding his mouth and whispering in his ear, 'we've got some lost time to make up on...' Steve's eyes close and he thanks his stars he gets that chance. She pushes him back and undoes each shirt button, watching him intently, 'why did you come to the bar the other night?' Steve tries to focus on her question, 'Bucky asked me.' She continues with the buttons, asking sceptically, 'why did you really come?' Steve allows his head to roll back and he stares at the ceiling as he confesses, 'Sam, he sent me a picture of you two, getting close and I couldn't stand it.' Amelia pulls her lips in, trying not to laugh, proud that it worked. She mutters a sorry and he says, 'no you're not, I am fairly sure you have been torturing me since then.' She smiles to herself and as she finishes the last button she yanks the shirt from his pants and mutters, wickedly, 'not done yet.'
Steve allows her to fight the shirt off him, tugging at the wrists and she chucks it over her shoulder. She wants to shout at the sight of a white undershirt and makes quick work of it. She leans back on her knees and stares at him, biting her lip. Steve tilts his head and bites his tongue, aware that she is taking back control and slowly killing him. She slides her hands down his sculpted muscles and tries not to show her affection, too much. She slips a hand into each of his pockets and he stands up straighter, in surprise. She pulls out his wallet first, opening it and smiling at the picture of her and Rosie, slinging it behind her, then she retrieves a folded piece of orange paper with the details of the event on it, she smiles, sitting on her heels and reading Andi's scribbled note. She discards it and kneels again, digging real deep in his pocket, squinting and frowning with feigned seriousness, Steve's eyes roll as she strokes him as she reaches into his pant pocket. She pulls her hand out, 'that's everything.' She looks at him innocently with wide eyes and Steve tries not to rise to her. She crawls closer, so their chests are touching and she reaches down between them, staring at him deeply. She easily pops open his pant button and lowers the zip. He closes his eyes and Amelia watches his peaceful face, almost losing her will power and throwing herself at him. 'I can feel you staring at me,' he teases from behind his closed eyelids, this fuels her and she pulls back, pushing his pants lower. Pulling her hands up his thighs and running a finger around the waist band of his boxers, 'I was expecting something vintage, I must admit.' He opens his eyes and raises a brow, 'skivvies?' She laughs a little, but hides it quickly. She brushes a hand against him, almost accidentally and can feel his hardness. She groans internally and tries to calm herself, convincing herself to stay in control. 'So, Rogers? You got a gal?' He panics and opens his eyes, worried that she isn't his girl anymore, but he sees that she is wearing his hat and propositioning him. He sighs, playing along 'it's true, I do, Miss,' he jokes. 'Damn, she must be special.' Steve runs a finger down her neck and between her breasts and slowly admits, 'she's life changing.' Amelia's mirth and smile melts away, no-one's ever said anything like that to her before. She leans forward, closing her eyes and parting her lips, but at the last minute she manages to resist.
She recovers quickly and grabs both of his hands, placing them at the waist band of his boxers. She gently lifts the hat off and shakes her hair softly, lowering the hat to cover his growing hardness. 'Help a girl out,' she nods at his boxers and he sighs, pulling them down quickly and re-standing, looking down at the hat covering himself. She giggles, 'why didn't you wear it?' She asks, trying not to focus on the naked man opposite her, 'I never liked wearing it, Bucky can keep the hat.' She nods in understanding, 'oh, well, if you insist.' She reaches down and whips the hat away, slinging it across the room, praying it doesn't hit something. Steve tries to look confident and she mutters close to his ear, 'sorry, Private, I didn't mean to leave you standing to attention for so long.' Steve grins at her, 'it's Captain, actually.' Amelia giggles loudly, 'now, ma'am, what are my orders?' Amelia laughs and throws herself at Steve, plastering herself to his front. She kisses him passionately and pulls back, looking at him meaningfully, 'let's celebrate, the war is over.'
At eight thirty am, Amelia is sat on the counter, watching Steve prepare breakfast, 'so you do know more than just eggs?' He ignores her. 'Bacon at least!' Steve walks over to her, placing a hand against her thigh, waving a utensil at her. 'We are in my kitchen now, Miss Miller.' Amelia laughs, through closed lips, 'oh, I'm sorry, I didn't realise, well you certainly seem to not know your way around.' Steve smirks, 'I could just drop this and kiss you right now.' Amelia fakes shock, 'that's a low blow, if we waited for you, I'd still be dating Natalie's salsa partner, Doug!' Steve shakes his head and kisses her lips, 'no, I wouldn't have let that happen.' He leans in and kisses her, gently at first and then applying pressure. Amelia leans forward, shifting to the edge and wrapping her legs around him. She can feel her eyes lazily closing and herself getting lost in his heat. Steve slips his hands up the back of her shirt, she hisses at his cold palms and arches into him. 'You look good in my shirt,' he mutters into her shoulder. 'Yeah, I should really put my own clothes on.' Steve holds her in place, stopping her from leaving, kissing her gently, 'don't bother.'
Steve places the utensil down and drags her closer, Amelia squeals against him and kisses him deeply. Bucky comes in, still in his bed clothes, halting and turning 'whoa, shit, sorry.' He covers his face and stops. They pull apart and Steve wipes his mouth. Amelia crosses her legs and tuts at his attire, 'and you doubted us?' Bucky looks down, 'she digs it.' Amelia laughs and Steve asks 'digs it?' Bucky shrugs and Amelia adds 'you have spent way too much time with my sister.' Amelia offers her help, Steve tells her she can set the table in the dining room if she wants. She jumps down and grabs a handful of cutlery, wandering to the next room. Bucky pours himself a drink and offers Steve a nod, 'sorted?' Steve just smiles in return. Bucky smirks, looking around at the mess in the kitchen. 'Mia won't appreciate you doing this in her kitchen, when you move in.' Steve stops and looks up suddenly, his mouth moves as if to speak and Bucky cuts him off, 'go for it, punk. I'm happy for you.' Steve smiles sincerely and Bucky looks at him in mock concern, 'that mouthy blonde isn't going to want to camp here, is she?' Steve laughs at his best friend, patting his shoulder 'that's your problem!' Bucky rubs his face, 'well if she doesn't, she's very much your issue, roomie!'
'Something smells good,' Clint yawns as he walks into the room, Steve and Bucky look up at him, 'why all the breakfast?' He asks looking around at the stacks of supplies. 'We have guests!' Steve explains, Clint looks around and then in confusion at Steve, as if he's lost it. 'On their way,' Bucky adds. Natasha walks in and asks 'who is on their way?' Bucky looks over, 'your protégé and her Aunt.' Clint protests, 'Rogers, you still haven't sorted that shit out yet?'
Tony joins them, 'the artist formally known as your girlfriend is setting the table in there, did you know this? Has she been there the entire time?' Steve huffs, feeling frustrated and slightly attacked. Clint smiles, 'you did sort it, you dawg, Rogers.' Bucky chuckles and Natasha smirks 'she must really like you, the girl isn't short of offers.' A voice interrupts the five of them, 'yeah, but I was never interested in anyone else.' They all look over at Amelia, she's wearing Steve's T-shirt and her dress is around her waist. Tony says 'shut your mouth, Clint.' Natasha smirks, 'is that why Wilson wasn't invited for breakfast?' Steve waves a spatula at them, 'actually, none of you were invited.' Amelia brushes past him and grabs more cutlery, 'don't say that! It's fine, the more the merrier.' Clint offers to help her and Bucky takes over from Steve with cooking.
FRIDAY announces Andi and Rosie. When the elevator opens, Bruce is chatting with her and Rosie is jumping around. Rosie shoots out of the elevator and runs for her mother, Amelia picks her up and her eyes grow looking around the room at the familiar faces. When she locks on Steve, she cheers and wrestles free from her mom, she ploughs into him and he lifts her gently. 'Are you back now? Forever?' He smiles at her and wipes a curl from her face, he knows there will be work and missions, but he's not going for so long again. 'Yeah, back for good.' Rosie cheers, shaking her fists. 'Now you can do my bunks up.' Steve raises an eyebrow, 'where have you been sleeping then?' Rosie giggles, 'on the floor with my toys.' Andi says 'on the lower bunk only, it's not neglect, you make us sound terrible, kid.' Steve looks at Bucky, 'you should have done it.' Bucky looks accosted, about to defend himself, Amelia adds, 'I knew you would want to do it and I always hoped… thought you… maybe, you might come back.' Steve smiles at her, she looks embarrassed and he pulls her close, kissing the side of her head. Steve looks between his girls, 'well, I think I know what I am doing today.' Andi grins and then winces, 'I think I can smell burning.'
She rounds the corner and spots Bucky slicing bread and ignoring his bacon. She shakes the frying pan a little and decides not to shame him. She creeps up and puts her face on his shoulder, 'good morning.' Bucky smiles, 'it's not a good idea to creep up on a guy with a past, a metal hand and a knife.' Andi chuckles, 'You knew I was there the entire time. Now why are you in here, Ina?' Bucky smirks, 'just giving them time, think I am done now.' He sighs, looking around, everything looks sufficiently charred and Andi thinks how sweet he is. She leans in and kisses him, 'love you. I'll get them all seated, shall I?' Bucky nods, holding her hand, he looks down at her t-shirt. 'Really?' He asks, she looks at it, 'what, it's my favourite?' She has a shirt on that includes an old school picture of Steve and Bucky with the word #STUCKY above it. She waltzes away, grabbing a piece of burnt bacon, chewing on it and pulling a disgusted face. 'Hey?' He calls to her, Andi pauses and hums in acknowledgement. 'I just wanted to say… you asked me once, if I would undo my past and I still can't say I wouldn't, I think I will always feel that way, but… but I know I wouldn't change this, you and me. Yeah, so yeah, great. Yeah. That's that.' Andi smiles softy and begins to leave, with a gentle nod, his voice stops her. 'And also, are you free for dinner on Friday?' Andi smiles widely, 'dinner? Like, out-out dinner? Hell yes.' He doesn't react, she rushes over and kisses his cheek before heading for the dining room.
Bucky is plating up and calls, 'nice shirt,' she stops short. When Andi looks back slowly, he has his back to her and she smiles to herself muttering, 'real smooth, Barnes.' She heads for the table and warms as she can hear everyone chatting.
Bucky brings in the last dish and takes the final seat at the table. 'Everyone good?' He asks. There's murmurs and mumbling and he ignores their complaints about things being burnt.
'How's the arm, Kid?' Tony asks. Rosie nods happily, 'come up with that hero name yet? Ready to join the Avengers?' She giggles, Andi grins 'Rosie likes Pink Girl, don't you?'
Rosie is sat between Steve and Amelia and chatting happily to Bruce, who is across from her. 'I like you more green,' she says, he stutters at her and his eyes look around for help. 'My favourite is hulkie and the blue one.' Bucky remembers the blue one from the first day he met her, everyone looks confused, 'I don't believe we have a blue one on the payroll,' Tony jokes. Amelia leans in, pushing hair away from the little girl's eyes, 'which one is the blue one, sweetie?' Rosie spoons eggs into her mouth, thinking about the words. 'Captain 'Merica' she spits happily with a mouth full of food, everyone looks to Steve and he just shakes his head, unsure. Andi steps in, 'Rosie, what do you think Steve does for work?' She looks up with a grin and a blush, 'he does TV with Mommy.' Everyone makes a noise of understanding, giggling around the table. Steve looks at her surprised, Amelia chuckles and leaning behind her daughter, whispers to him, gently patting his cheek, 'you can have that conversation, good luck.'
AN: And there we go! The End Steve and Amelia managed to sort their sh*t out and the tables turned, with Bucky and Andi the ones in a solid, stable relationship. I know the beef between Steve and Amelia went on for a while, but I wanted to make it realistic, like when you want to forgive and forget but just can't quite get over the hurt.
I had an emotional journey writing this chapter, bringing two people back together, second chances, letters from beyond the grave, it was lush!
Again thank you so so so much for reading! I didn't know if anyone would care to read it, especially enjoy it.
So when I was done writing this, I sat back and thought of all the great situations we didn't get to see and so I have written a part two and I think I'm just going to go for it and post it here next week and start again. I don't know if it should be a separate story or just carry on, but I'm going to keep going on this link for now… Spoiler alert, we skip ahead a bit so we can see where people are down the line. I think it's a little edgier with challenging themes at times, definitely more dramatic and some really exciting storylines I hope you'll keep reading.
As always let me know any thoughts/feels etc.
Stay safe and well