HOLY SMOKES! Happy anniversary to me - I published the first chapter of this monstrosity one year ago today. Thanks to those who've been with me for this journey. Will it ever end? Eventually, but then I'll just start another one. I know I have many more Fitzbarton stories to share.
I'm sorry for the delay in this chapter. I usually try to post a chapter every 1-2 weeks, but I really struggled with what I wanted to happen in this chapter. I thought I knew what I wanted to have happen, but the characters vetoed the idea. In this chapter, you will find a twisted take on a Renner movie. Speaking of Renner, how excited are we for November, which I've renamed Rennvember? I mean, Mayor of Kingstown AND Hawkeye debuting that month.
Once again, thanks to everyone who's reading, favoriting, following, and commenting. I never would've made it this far without you. Never fear. I'm already at work on the next chapter.
As the elevator doors were closing for the trip back to the common room, it hit Mikayla where they were going. "Damn it! I'm not going to have a breakdown. I'm not." She slumped down onto the floor of the elevator, brought her knees to her chin, wrapping her arms around her legs, then started slowly rocking back and forth. "I can do this. It's a different farmhouse. Barney won't be there. Barney's dead." She was repeating this when the elevator door opened.
"Mikayla!" Misty knelt next to her best friend. 'Crap, what do I do? Think. I know we covered this at some point.' She looked at Mikayla, who was still rocking back and forth and continuing to mutter to herself. 'Rub her temples – that's it!' Misty immediately reached over and started rubbing circles into Mikayla's temples. "Come on, Mikayla. You've got this. We'll be at your farmhouse, the one you grew up in, the one you know like the back of your hand. Clint will be there. He's waiting for us."
As Misty was trying to calm Mikayla down, the elevator continued traveling down toward the common room. When it next stopped, and the door opened, Thor rushed into the elevator. "How can I help, friend Misty?"
"We need to calm her down. She got to thinking too much about the farm."
"It looks like it's working. She's stopped rocking." Thor placed a hand on Mikayla's arm. "Fair Mikayla, are you back with us?" She nodded. "Here, allow me to help you up." Thor and Misty helped her up. "Better?"
"Better." Mikayla nodded. "Thanks." She was still a little unsteady, so she leaned against the elevator railing until it reached the common area, where they met Bucky, who'd taken the stairs.
Misty grabbed her hand. "Ready?"
"As I'll ever be." Thor and Bucky took their luggage and carried it to Misty's SUV as they exited the elevator. Thor climbed into the front passenger seat, leaving Bucky to sit next to Mikayla in the middle seats, keeping an eye on her during the trip. As soon as she got in the vehicle, Mikayla put in her earbuds and started her playlist. Once they were out of the city, Mikayla stared out the window, appearing to enjoy the scenery. Bucky would glance over at her from time to time to make sure she was okay.
After about an hour on the road, when he realized Mikayla appeared to be okay, he leaned back into the seat and relaxed as much as he could, still ready to help her at a moment's notice. Bucky was glad to see she was active, though, noticing she was tapping her fingers on her leg to the beat of the music. He listened as Thor and Misty carried on a conversation, getting to know each other. Bucky chuckled, listening to Thor describe childhood antics involving his brother Loki. The only details he knew about Loki were, he invaded New York City with an alien army, brainwashing Clint to be his lackey, then taken back to Asgard to be imprisoned. He and Clint had shared a few sleepless nights on the range, shooting at the imaginary figures that haunted their respective nightmares. Even though Mikayla hadn't had her mind taken over, she, too, had nightmares, and if Clint were on a mission when hers hit, she'd join Bucky in the kitchen for some hot chocolate and conversation. Some mornings their fellow teammates would trickle in and find them in the living area, Mikayla curled up on the love seat, and Bucky stretched out on one of the couches. He'd meant it when he told Mikayla she reminded him of his sister Becca. They were both sarcastic and didn't take him too seriously, able to make him laugh when he needed it, but were always willing to listen to him. He felt like Becca and Mikayla could've been friends in another lifetime.
Misty reached behind her and swatted Mikayla. When she looked up, Misty raised her voice. "Almost there, M. You okay?" Mikayla nodded and began taking deep breaths, steadying herself. She looked up to see her childhood home. It wasn't as traumatizing as she thought it would be, especially when she recognized a figure. Mikayla saw Clint on the roof, working away at cutting up the part of the tree that had fallen onto the roof. She smiled as Clint put down the chainsaw and headed toward the vehicle. He wiped the sweat away from his face using his bare arm because, of course, he was shirtless, causing Mikayla's grin to grow across her face. "Oh, yeah, she's okay," Misty smirked as she saw the look on Mikayla's face.
Clint approached the car door and tapped on the window, waiting for Mikayla to roll it down. "Hey, babe," he greeted her as he removed his headphones.
"Hey," she quietly replied.
"Glad you made it. As you can see," he said, motioning toward the house, "just now getting to work on the tree. Didn't want to get too far into the work, knowing I had help coming." Clint leaned into the SUV, crossing his arms and propping them on the open window. "You make it okay? Tell me the truth, babe."
"I had a small meltdown in the elevator, but Misty and Thor helped me through it. Bucky kept an eye on me on the trip up, but I focused on music, and that seemed to help."
"Hey, thanks, man," Clint said to Bucky as he walked behind him, helping Thor carry in the luggage.
"No problem, Barton," Bucky clasped Clint's shoulder, "just glad she's okay. Let me get these suitcases up, and I'll give you a hand with the tree."
"As shall I, Master Clint," Thor added as he walked by with the rest of the luggage.
"Thanks, guys. It's much appreciated." Clint opened the car door for Mikayla, Misty having already exited the vehicle. He grabbed Mikayla's hand as she stepped out of the car, then kissed her cheek. "I said hi to your parents when I got here but figured you'd want to, too."
"Thanks." The couple walked to the front porch and up the few steps. As Mikayla opened the screen door, Clint stepped away from her, allowing her to enter by herself. Mikayla took a deep breath, then softly spoke. "Hey, mom and dad. I finally made it back here. I guess you know what's been going on since I saw you while I was in the coma. It was good to see you. It made me realize how much I miss you and Uncle P. In case you didn't know, Barney's dead. I killed him after he kidnapped me, and we ended up at the farm he and Clint lived at as children. I never would've made it this far without Clint and my new family. I love him so much, more than I thought I could ever love someone. He's helped me through everything. The new family has, too. I had a small breakdown in the elevator at the tower. Since the kidnapping, I haven't been to a farmhouse, so I tried to keep in mind the differences between the two and who was waiting for me when we got here. I love you guys." Mikayla bit her lip and steeled herself before turning around to find Clint standing in the doorway.
"I'll always be there to help you," Clint said, retaking her hand, pulling her close, and kissing her forehead.
Mikayla wrapped her arms around his waist. "I know. That's how I know I'll make it through." She looked around the room. "What say I make some tea and lemonade while you go out and get back to work on the roof?" She leaned in and whispered in his ear. "By the way, you're the sexiest roofer I've ever known. It's a good look."
Clint smirked. "All yours, babe."
"You two going to make out, or are we going to get some help here?" They heard Bucky yelling from the side of the house.
"Your crew awaits," Mikayla said. "Go. I'll bring the drinks and sandwiches when they're done."
"Yes, ma'am." Clint kissed her again. "Yeah, yeah, on my way," he responded to Bucky.
Mikayla stood in the doorway and watched Clint until he disappeared around the corner of the house. "How did I get so lucky to fall in love with the hottest man in any universe and have him love me back?"
"Your natural charm and persuasion, M." Mikayla turned around to look at Misty. "Oh, and also, your friendship with me." Misty handed her a glass of tea. "While you two were making googly eyes at each other, I made tea. You're welcome." The two lifted their glasses in a toast. "I've pulled out sandwich stuff."
"Let's get started, then." Mikayla took a sip of tea, then went into the kitchen and began making sandwiches. Misty also whipped up a large pot of vegetable soup. Once everything was prepared, they gathered up paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils, loaded some trays and a picnic basket, then carried them out to the guys.
When they walked around the corner of the house, they found the tree had already been chopped up and put in a pile to be used for firewood, thanks to Thor. "Lunchtime!" Misty announced.
Mikayla heard a noise above her. She looked up and saw Clint leaning over the eave. "Hey."
"Hey, yourself, babe."
"We've got soup, sandwiches, and tea." Mikayla jumped as she heard a thud behind her. Turning, she found Bucky standing up behind her after he'd jumped down from the roof. "Damn, Bucky. Give a girl a heart attack, will you? Ever heard of a ladder?"
"Takes too long," Bucky grinned. "Besides, I knew Barton would be using it."
"Thanks for being so considerate, Barnes." Clint walked up to the group, then started nuzzling Mikayla's neck.
"Okay, yuck! I love you, but you can keep your sweat." Mikayla playfully shoved him away. "Go! Food and drink await."
"Where you lead, I will follow," Clint said, swiping a sandwich and a glass of tea from the tray. Mikayla laughed, rolling her eyes at Clint's antics.
The group made their way to a clearing large enough for all of them to relax comfortably. Once the group located the perfect spot, Misty took a couple of blankets out of the picnic basket and spread them on the ground. Once everyone sat down, the two women passed out the food and drinks. "Looks like you're making good headway on the roof," Mikayla commented, looking up at the roof where a much smaller hole appeared.
"Yeah, the damage wasn't as extensive as originally thought. We should have it fixed today," Clint said. His phone rang. When he pulled it out of his pocket and looked at the display, he stood and walked away from the group, returning a short time later. "I swear these guys are idiots. Then again, they're bad guys, so I shouldn't expect anything less." Clint sat back down, taking another sandwich.
"Cruise info?" Mikayla asked.
"Yep. The idiots didn't realize this was the offseason for cruises leaving from Galveston. Everything's been pushed off until after the first of the year."
"Barton? Is this the mission regarding the heathens that wish to blow up the oil refineries?" Thor asked.
"It is. I think the plan is to have the rest of the team come down and be on standby."
"That will give me time to go over my dossier again."
Clint smiled. "Babe, you remember how you were frustrated because you didn't think you could become someone else?" She nodded. "Two words, Maddie Wheeler." Mikayla looked at him questioningly. "Your identity when you went to Washington. You lived as another person for two weeks, creating an entire identity."
Recognition set in, and Mikayla grinned. "You're right. I guess I did.
Clint leaned over and kissed her cheek. "My kick-ass fiancée in action. I'm so proud of you, even if I hate the reason that you felt you had to do it."
"I know, not one of my finer moments, but I did show I could be someone else when it's called for." Mikayla leaned back on her elbows, Clint mimicking her as he positioned himself next to her. The others continued talking as Clint and Mikayla stared out at the landscape, which consisted of a tree-lined creek and, at times, deer appearing out of the woods then retreating. The way the wind was blowing, the group could hear the horses and livestock from the farm ten miles away.
"This reminds me of parts of Asgard. We have gardens that are a place of peace, where we Asgardians would go to renew our minds and spirits by concentrating on the atmosphere around us."
"That's how I felt about this place, Thor," Mikayla said. "I'd often come out here and sit, enjoying the silence and solitude. I think I need to get back to doing that, carving out my own space."
"Excellent decision, Ladyhawke. Self-care is always important for a warrior. We all need to take time for recharging."
"On that note," Clint said, hopping up to his feet. "I'm going to work on finishing the repairs, then recharge. I figure we can spend the night, then head back to the tower tomorrow."
"Sounds like a plan. I'll make sure everything's stocked. Misty and I can make a run into town if we need anything."
"Outdoor mall," Clint mouthed. Mikayla blushed in response.
"I know that look, M." Misty elbowed Mikayla as they headed back into the house. "It's code for some sort of sexcapade, I'm sure."
"None of your business, M," Mikayla said. "I don't reveal my secrets."
"You don't have to. I know you too well."
"Shush, Randall." The two continued joking around as they cleaned up from lunch.
Mikayla searched the house and found everything well-stocked. "Can you think of anything we need?"
"Nope, I think we're good. We just need some entertainment for the evening. Well, Bucky, Thor, and I do."
"Can it, Misty. I'll drag out Monopoly. It's either that or strip poker."
Misty tapped her lips with her index finger; forehead scrunched in contemplation. "I think Monopoly's the safer choice. Might save the strip poker for you and Arrow Boy."
"Probably a good idea," Mikayla said. "I'll go upstairs and get the game. Be right back." Mikayla jogged upstairs and into a closet in one of the spare bedrooms. "OK, let's see what I can find." She shuffled through the various board games, grabbing a few, and headed back downstairs, placing the games on the kitchen table. "I brought down a few options. We've got Life, Monopoly, Sorry, Trouble, and Yahtzee."
The two friends conversed as they made more tea and lemonade, along with setting out some wine. Mikayla threw together spaghetti and garlic bread for dinner while Misty tossed a salad. By the time they'd finished, the guys had finished the repairs and were sitting in the living room. Thor was stretched out in a recliner, and Bucky was seated at the end of the couch. "Before you ask, he's in the shower," Bucky said as Mikayla appeared in the living room, Misty on her heels.
Misty went to sit at the other end of the couch as Mikayla headed up the stairs. "Can they be any more obvious?" Misty shook her head.
"Reminds me of Stevie and Peggy," Bucky said. "He always thought they were so smooth, saying they had to go look at battle plans or something." He snickered. "Only battle plans they had were who would end up naked first."
"What?" Misty looked shocked, though when Thor and Bucky looked at her, she was smirking. "Captain America isn't as wholesome as America thinks he is?"
Bucky rolled his eyes. "Please. I never realized he was that good of an actor. He's really had everyone fooled all this time?" Bucky shook his head. "Gotta give him credit for that, I guess."
"Got any good stories of you two growing up?" Misty asked.
"Oh, do I," Bucky smirked. "Sit back, and I'll share tales of growing up with the little punk." Bucky began telling stories and sharing memories that had come back to him since his escape from HYDRA.
Upstairs, Mikayla was on the bed waiting for Clint to exit the shower. She sat cross-legged in the middle of the bed playing Solitaire with a deck of cards she'd grabbed when looking for games. Concentrating on the game, she didn't hear the water turn off and the bathroom door open. "Hey," Clint said.
Clint was leaning against the door jamb, towel wrapped low across his hips, water dripping down his recently sun-kissed torso. Mikayla looked up and caught her breath. She bit her bottom lip. "Damn," she whispered.
"See anything you like, Fitzgerald?" Clint smirked, mischievous blue eyes twinkling. All Mikayla could do was nod. She had shown up intending to suggest a game of strip poker, but that idea flew out the window as soon as she spotted him. "Words are required, remember?" Clint strode over to the bed.
Mikayla gulped. "I remember." She took a deep breath. "Yes, very much so."
"Good." Clint looked down. "Solitaire?"
"I'd planned to suggest strip poker, just the two of us. But, seeing you there, like that, kind of ruined that plan."
Clint easily picked her up, and she wrapped her legs around him. "Have I ever told you how much I love your devious side?"
Mikayla started to shake her head, then remembered the rules. "No," she replied, biting her bottom lip again.
"Then I'll just have to show you." Clint laid her back on the bed, towel falling from his hips in the process.
When the couple made their way downstairs later, Misty, Thor, and Bucky pulled out the Monopoly box. "Ah, the resident birdies," Misty joked. "We've made it through Sorry and Trouble already."
"I must apologize," Thor said. "I was a little too enthusiastic and broke the dome."
Mikayla chuckled. "It's okay, Thor. I've wanted to do that for a long time. I can always buy another game. As long as you were having fun, that's what matters."
"It was most definitely fun. Will you be joining us for Monopoly? Fair Misty and young Barnes have explained the rules to me, and I don't think there's anything breakable."
"Sure, it'll be fun." Clint and Mikayla sat down, and the group spent the next couple of hours buying and selling properties. In the end, Bucky won the game. "Good to know Clint doesn't win at everything," Mikayla joked as she was putting the game back in its box.
"Still not convinced Barnes wasn't cheating."
"How in the hell do you cheat at Monopoly? Steal money from the bank?"
"That's one way. Take it from an ex-carnie. There are several ways to cheat."
Mikayla stood up, walked around the table, leaned down, and thoroughly kissed Clint. "There," she said as she stood back up, "that's the only way I know to shut him up. Misty, care to help in the kitchen?"
"Whatever it takes, right?" Misty teased. Mikayla smirked and shrugged her shoulders.
The rest of the evening was spent eating dinner and lazily sitting around chatting. Clint and Mikayla were on the love seat, fingers entwined, Bucky and Thor were at each end of the couch, and Misty was in a chair across from the love seat. While they were chatting, Misty's phone rang. After a brief conversation, she hung up. "That was Sam. The group is back from the mission. It was successful, whatever the mission was."
Clint kissed Mikayla's forehead. "That's my cue, time for my check-in with Fury." He stood up and went out to the back porch. The rest of the group continued their conversation. Before she knew it, Clint was back sitting next to her, taking her hands and running his fingers over them. "He wasn't happy, but not a lot we can do when we're at the mercy of the criminals. We'll keep an eye on them from afar, and if they slip up, we'll get them. Fury wanted me to tell you to keep an eye on them along with your latest mission."
Mikayla snorted. "I can do that, being the queen of multitasking." She went to stand up. "On that note, I'm going to go do some searching." She nodded to the others, then went upstairs, pulling out her laptop, and began surfing. She didn't stop until she felt a pair of comforting, calloused hands start massaging her neck and shoulders. "Sitting too long again, wasn't I?"
"Yep." Clint continued digging his thumbs into her neck next to her spine. "Come on. Everyone else has gone to bed. I think you were so focused on the computer that you never heard the footsteps."
Mikayla put her hands over Clint's and looked up at him. "I just want to find these bastards. I don't want anyone else to go through what you and Bucky did."
Clint could feel the chill that traveled along Mikayla's spine. "Hey," he said, leaning down and kissing her. "You'll get them, and we'll end them. Right now, however," he reached over and closed her laptop, "you need to get some sleep." Mikayla nodded, then got up, went over to the dresser, taking out a t-shirt, and changed clothes. Clint, who'd already stripped down to his boxer briefs, held up the sheet for her as she climbed under the cover and curled up next to him. Once she fell asleep, he allowed himself to drift off.
The following day, once everyone was ready, the group headed back to the tower. As soon as they arrived and the luggage was unloaded, Mikayla brought her laptop back out to the communal area and went back to work. Clint made sure to force her to stop every couple of hours to give her eyes and body a break. He noticed how relaxed she looked, even when concentrating on her work. Mikayla's phone buzzed, so she picked it up and looked at the notification. "Everything okay?" Clint asked.
"Yep. It was my calendar reminding me of the fittings scheduled for tomorrow."
"Fittings?"
Mikayla chuckled as she ruffled his hair. "We're getting married at the end of September, remember? Time to start getting measured for the wedding attire. The tailors and the lady from the bridal shop will be here tomorrow." Clint opened his mouth and started to say something, but Mikayla tapped his chin, and his mouth immediately closed. "Pepper and I have it all worked out. The women will be meeting in the penthouse, and you guys will be down here. So, sorry, RH, no chance of seeing me in the wedding dress other than the picture you saw when I first bought it. I'd like to do something traditional. Now, be a good boy and go get me some tea, please."
"Yes, ma'am." Clint went to the kitchen, returned with a glass of tea, then leaned over the back of the couch to hand it to her. "I figure you've been so good for me that it was the least I could do," he whispered in her ear as she took the drink from him. He smiled, watching a slight blush cross her face and start traveling down her neck. Clint leaped over the back of the loveseat and plopped down next to her, then went about listening to Thor talk about the wonders of board games.
Mikayla buried herself in the computer, frantically typing. "Does the name Robert Bayer ring a bell?" She asked Clint softly.
"Not offhand, but I've pissed off a lot of people over the years. Why?"
"He sure as hell remembers you." Mikayla handed him the laptop, and he started reading. "Ringing any bells?"
"Yeah, now I do. He tried to recruit me right out of sniper school, worked for some secret government agency." Mikayla chuckled. Clint looked at her. "I know, ironic, huh? I turn him down and later get recruited by yet another secret government agency. I had a weird feeling, mentioned it to Gibbs, who told me to follow my gut instinct, so I did. Guy kept hounding me, though."
"How'd you shake him?"
"Once I got out of the service, I went rogue until Coulson found me."
Mikayla smiled, knowing if her uncle had never met Clint, then she would've never met Clint and wouldn't be sitting here next to him. She laid her head on his shoulder. "I'm glad my uncle dragged you to SHIELD."
"Me, too, babe." Clint kissed the top of her head. "I'm guessing once I dropped off the radar, Bayer never gave me a second thought."
"Only to rant about you where he didn't think anyone would find out."
"Oh, look, our two lovebirds plotting to overthrow a government. How romantic." Tony strolled into the room, a protective arm around Pepper's waist.
"Lady Pepper!" Thor exclaimed. "Thank you for gracing us with your presence this day. How are you and the little Starkling doing?"
Pepper blushed. No one ever got used to Thor's greetings, but they all enjoyed them because they were heartfelt. "She and I are well, thank you, Thor. Will Jane and Darcy be here tomorrow for the fitting?" Pepper went into the kitchen to grab a smoothie.
"Yes, they shall. It will be a glorious occasion, having all of us together again."
Mikayla stood up and made her way over to Pepper, hugging her. "I think pregnancy agrees with you."
"I think so, at least most of the time when the morning sickness doesn't make an appearance." Pepper placed a hand over her stomach. "I still can't believe I'm carrying a child and bringing her into the world."
"She's going to have the best parents and the craziest aunts and uncles ever known." Mikayla smiled. "How's Tony been handling it?"
"Surprisingly well. His years of not sleeping and working through the night will serve him well after she's born."
"Have you decided on a name yet?"
Pepper nodded. "Morgan Elizabeth Stark."
"I love it, Pepper! That is a beautiful name."
"Thanks. It was about the only one we could agree on. I was not going to have Toni with an I as her name, and, for some reason, he didn't like Apple, so we settled on Morgan." Her stomach moved. "Wow, guess that means she likes the name."
"Everything okay, Pepperkins?" Tony hurried over to her. "How's Baby Stark?"
Pepper put a hand on his cheek. "Baby Stark is fine. Everything is going according to schedule. Now we just need to make sure I don't go into labor during the wedding."
"I don't mind in the least sharing my wedding date with Morgan's arrival." Mikayla leaned down. "Morgan, I just ask that you wait until I say I do before you make your appearance, please."
"We'll do our best," Pepper laughed. "We came down to make sure everyone was going to be here for the fittings tomorrow and to tell you about your surprise."
Mikayla inwardly groaned. "Surprise?"
"I saw that look, Mikayla," Pepper chastised her. "I figured since everyone would be here, we'd go ahead and have your bridal shower. The guys will go ax-throwing since they didn't get to the last time it was planned. I've already talked it over with the others, and they're on board. We'll have the fittings upstairs, then come down here for the bridal shower. Oh, and you can't say no, the cake and refreshments have already been ordered."
Mikayla knew you couldn't argue with a determined Pepper Stark. "Yes, ma'am."
"Good."
"Pepperoncini," Tony whined. "Let's move to the living area so you can sit in a more comfortable chair."
Pepper rolled her eyes while flashing a grin to Mikayla. "On my way, dear." Pepper met Tony in the living room, and they sat down on one of the couches.
"They are adorable, aren't they?" Clint asked, taking Pepper's place next to Mikayla.
"They are. I think parenthood will be good for them, especially Tony," Mikayla replied, a slight twinge of emotion crossing her face, which Clint immediately noticed.
"Babe?"
"Hmm?"
"You're going to be an awesome mom. You know that, right?"
Mikayla sighed. "I do, and usually I'm okay and can handle the emotions, but sometimes they get to me. Don't get me wrong. I'm excited for Tony and Pepper."
"I know." Clint ran a comforting hand up and down her arm. "Believe me, I know." He put a finger under her chin and turned her head toward him. "Why don't we go and do some more research on adoption?" Mikayla nodded. "Grab your laptop, and we'll go up to our room." Mikayla went back to the living room, picked her laptop off the coffee table, then followed Clint back to their suite, where they spent a while looking up adoption processes. Mikayla's computer beeped. "A notification?"
"Time to give a mission update to Fury." Mikayla picked up her phone and dialed Fury, sharing with him the details Clint had given." Once the call ended, Mikayla looked at Clint and smiled. "He will not be at the fittings tomorrow, of course. He'll wear a nice suit, and the long coat, I'm sure. Fury told me to keep searching, see if I can find any activity or movement, and to try and get more details on the drugs they're using."
"If anyone can, it'll be you." Clint kissed her temple. "What sounds good for lunch?"
"Hmm, we could see if the others are doing anything or having something delivered."
"Good idea. Friday, has anyone placed an order for lunch?"
"Yes, Agent Barton. Boss is having sub sandwiches delivered for everyone, including yourself and Agent Fitzgerald."
"Thanks, Friday. Let us know when they arrive?"
"You know I will, Agent Barton."
Clint chuckled, shaking his head. "Gotta love the fact that Stark designs his AI's with spunk."
"She's almost as snarky as you, RH." Mikayla's computer dinged again. As she started typing, her countenance grew serious. "Damn it!"
"What?"
"Son of a bitch has a lab in Maryland and a drug manufacturing facility in Manila." Her fingers flew over the keyboard. "What is it with wanting to reinvent the wheel?" She took a deep breath, then returned to typing and reading. "Okay, apparently the concoction he's using is a live virus injected into the subjects, then keeping them on oral meds until the virus bonds with their minds and bodies, strengthening each. However, if the subject isn't deemed worthy, they take away the oral meds and let the person spiral, something he calls a cognitive degrade, which doesn't sound like a pleasant thing to go through." Mikayla looked over at him. "Clint, this man needs to be stopped. I'm calling Fury." She picked up the phone and dialed. Once Fury answered, she gave him an update, nodding as Fury hung up. "Why do so many people want to control other people and play God? I don't get it." Taking another deep breath to focus herself, she continued. "He's going to come up with a plan. Unfortunately, I feel that plan is going to involve you, and I don't like it. Have you not had your memory played with enough? Why can't it be some simple mission like you aim your bow and shoot someone through the heart?"
Mikayla was starting to hyperventilate. "I don't like it any more than you do, believe me. It sounds like, though, I'm the best one for the job. Mikayla, look at me." Clint grabbed her shoulders. "If this happens, you know I'll do everything I can to get back to you, right?" She nodded.
"Agents, the food is here."
"Thanks, Friday," Clint said, kissing Mikayla's forehead. "Now, let's go down and have lunch with everyone. We'll do our best to put this out of our minds until we hear from Fury, okay?"
Mikayla took a deep breath to center herself again. "Okay, will do, and you're right. Let's not worry about a mission until we know we have one."
"That's my kick-ass woman," Clint smiled. He took her hand, and they went back down to meet their teammates for lunch.
The rest of the afternoon was relatively uneventful. After lunch, Tony, Bruce, and Bucky retreated to the lab so the science bros could research the schematics of Bucky's arm. Clint went with Nat to the gym to spar. Sam had returned, so he and Misty went back to their offsite apartment. Thor was on a conference call with Jane and Darcy, working out their arrival the next day. Mikayla looked around, realizing she was by herself in the common area, took the laptop and the rest of her sub back to her suite, continuing her research and adding to the file. "Son of a bitch!" Mikayla picked up her phone and called Fury.
"Working on a plan, Fitzgerald," Fury growled. "Keep me posted."
"I hope the plan will at least go into effect after the fittings tomorrow," Mikayla mumbled to herself.
After sparring with Nat, Clint came back to the suite, finding Mikayla focused on her computer. He didn't want to disturb her, so he continued to the bathroom. When he finished his shower, he threw on a pair of shorts and a t-shirt before hopping over the back of the couch and landing next to Mikayla. "Good hunting?"
"Unfortunately, yes." She shared the information she'd previously given to Fury. "Why do I think there won't be fittings happening tomorrow?"
"We'll figure it out, babe. If it comes down to it, just give them one of my suits, and they can use those measurements, then after the mission, we can have them come back." Clint kissed her temple and put an arm around Mikayla as she sighed and sank back into the couch. "Our wedding is still going to take place on September 28th. We've been through too much to not have it happen."
Before Mikayla could reply, Friday spoke. "Agents Barton and Fitzgerald? Director Fury is requesting your presence at a mission briefing at once in the conference room. I've also taken the liberty of canceling the fitting sessions and bridal shower for tomorrow."
"Thanks, Friday. You're always looking out for me."
"Of course, I do. Need I remind you that I'm your favorite, Agent Fitzgerald? As you are mine, just please keep that from Boss."
Mikayla smiled. "You got it, Friday."
Clint shook his head. "You've got everyone wrapped around your fingers, don't you?"
"It's my winning personality and charm," Mikayla smirked. "Come on, let's head downstairs."
Everyone arrived about the same time. "Guessing you found more details?" Sam asked.
"Welcome back, and yes, sad to say, I did. Don't get me wrong, I adore Steve and Bucky, but the world does not need more super-soldiers."
Fury appeared on the screen. "Agent Fitzgerald, care to tell us about the group and the man this mission is about?"
Mikayla stood up, all eyes on her. "The National Research Assay Group. It's buried deep in the Defense Department, ran by a man named Robert Bayer. He runs a program that's designed to create a new wave of soldiers. Soldiers that heal quicker and have sharper minds than regular soldiers, and now he's working on another strain that takes away emotions. Before you say it's already been done, it's the method. It starts off with an injection of some concoction that I haven't discovered yet, then is maintained with oral medication until the cells become cohesive. If, for some reason, the candidate doesn't work out or doesn't meet a set of standards, the maintenance medication is taken away. Once the oral medicine wears off, the person spirals into a cognitive degrade and becomes basically a blithering idiot and is dealt with appropriately, never to be seen again." A chill went up her spine just thinking about that. Shaking her head, she continued with more details. "I found out Bayer caused an incident to happen at the medical laboratory where they monitor the candidates. Somehow, he caused one of the researchers to snap and go on a shooting rampage, killing everyone in the lab. After the incident, Bayer went dark. However, I think I've found him in Manila, which makes sense. The group has a processing facility where the oral medicines are made and then sent to the lab for distribution."
Fury jumped in. "This is where we come in. He's probably going there to cover his tracks. It appears he's also done away with any existing patients, so getting rid of the drugs would be his last stop. It's our job to end him. To add to everything, Bayer has a personal connection to Barton, holds a grudge against him."
"Who doesn't?" Tony muttered while smirking. Clint gave him the bird.
"Barton, Romanoff, Rogers, you'll infiltrate the plant, locate any information, and find Bayer. The rest of you will be outside, ready to handle any stragglers. This includes you, Fitzgerald. You and Banner will stay on the plane to monitor the situation and act when needed. Mission starts in three hours. Fury out."
"I hate being right sometimes," Mikayla groaned. "Thanks for canceling the activities tomorrow, Friday."
"You're most welcome. Shall I contact Miss Foster and Miss Lewis and advised them not to come?"
"No, Misty will need someone here, so she doesn't hibernate in her apartment."
"OK, let's go grab a quick meal, then be at the Quinjet in three hours," Steve said as he stood up, staying put as he watched everyone leave the room except Mikayla. "What's up, Fitzgerald?"
Mikayla stood and walked over to him. "I know Clint won't take any unnecessary chances, and he's a grown man, but this is personal, and – "
"Don't worry, Mikayla. I'll file the information away and make sure he doesn't do anything stupid. He knows his job, and I know he's got a lot to live for, so he'll take every precaution."
"I know. I just hate when these jobs become personal. That didn't go so well the last time he was targeted, but I know the team has his back."
"I'm glad you'll be joining us on this mission. The more eyes and arms, the better. Welcome back." Mikayla nodded, waving at him as she left to get prepared.
Two and a half hours later, the team was at the Quinjet, beginning to board. "Aww, Maid Marian, you're not wearing your outfit," Tony whined. "I'm disappointed in you."
"Can it, metal dude," Mikayla shot back. "Don't worry about it. If I'm needed in the field, I'll be ready." She held up a small carrying case, opening it to show the collapsible bow and quiver Tony made for her when she got home from the hospital.
"Nice to know someone cares," Tony muttered as he was sitting down.
"Always, Tony," Mikayla said, strapping herself into the seat.
Clint stopped in front of her on the way to the cockpit. "Hey," he knelt, "September 28th, we're getting married on that date, and don't forget it." He kissed her forehead. "If you fall, I will catch you."
Mikayla smiled. "I will be waiting." Clint stood and continued to the cockpit, getting situated in the pilot's seat. Natasha soon followed, sending a nod to Mikayla as she passed her, then went to the co-pilot's seat.
Thor and Bucky sat on each side of her. "Lady Mikayla, we shall come out of this victorious and shall vanquish the enemy. I will not allow anything to stand in the way of your nuptials."
Mikayla leaned against his arm. "Thanks, Thor."
Bucky leaned over. "We've got this."
"That's my mantra."
"Thank you for flying Avengers Airways. Please make sure you are buckled in, and your trays are in the upright position. I'm sorry, but there will be no in-flight movie this trip, but I will take song requests."
"How about The Sound of Silence?" Natasha murmured. Clint chuckled as they went through their takeoff checklist, then grew quiet as the plane lifted off. Everyone else was going over their roles.
The facility was located, and Clint found a clearing to land. Before exiting, Steve spoke. "OK, everyone knows their duties. Banner, stay here for medical unless there's a code green. Fitzgerald, you're going to see what Tony's seeing. In case he misses something, you'll be able to give directions. Use your best judgment as to whether or not to join the fight." Steve looked around to see if anyone had anything to add. "OK, let's roll."
The trio infiltrating the base made sure they had their credentials before leaving the plane. Clint was Kurt Brown, Nat was Melanie Starling, and Steve was Martin Sheridan. They donned lab coats and, swiping their recently made badges, entered the building. Sam sent up Red Wing to see if it could spot anything from the air. Thor and Tony were waiting until the building started to clear before making their presence known. Bucky had found a building to the southwest with an excellent vantage point and was camped out on the roof, watching nearby flags so he could figure out the wind velocity and direction to make allowances for his shots.
Once inside, the trio split up. Clint went to the basement, Nat covered the upstairs, and Steve remained on the main floor. After several minutes of radio silence, Natasha spoke. "Nothing up here but empty offices and conference rooms. No computers, no file cabinets, nothing. I'm headed back to help Steve. Anyone else?"
"So far, it looks like the main floor is where the sorting is taking place." They each saw the assembly lines of employees distributing various colors of pills. "Barton, anything?"
"Lots of medical equipment and exam rooms. Seems like this is where the – " His voice was suddenly cut off, and a struggle could be heard, then silence.
"Clint!" Mikayla screamed from the plane. "Barton, come in!"
"On my way," Natasha scrambled to get to a stairwell, but all of them were locked. "Cap? A little help here." She looked down and saw Steve using his shield to bust open the door to a stairwell in the northeast corner. As she was waiting for Cap, an alarm sounded, and a set of doors opened on the main level. The workers started flooding out the doors.
"Stark!" Cap shouted as he fought to get to the stairwell door to reach Natasha, "Someone make sure the workers are safe! We're looking for the ones not wearing hairnets!"
"Upper left, Cap." He looked up and saw Natasha scaling the rails to meet him on the main floor. "Let's get to the basement." Cap nodded, and they found a door. Cap busted open the door, and the couple ran down the stairs. "Clint!" They flung doors and looked inside, but no sign of their teammate. Finally, at the end of the hall, they saw him being dragged outside by two men. Before they could catch up, the men disappeared.
"Found him then lost him," Cap said. "How's containment coming along?"
"Workers have been shuffled into an auxiliary building," Sam answered. "Barnes was able to take out some of Bayer's associates. We've got them in another building. Didn't spot Barton, though."
"Got him, back of the building, just thrown into a white van," Bucky said. "Fitzgerald?"
"See it driving away, heading east. Knew this would come in handy. Barnes, meet me at the corner."
"What is she doing?" Tony asked. The sound of a motor came through the comms. "I hope she's not doing what I think she's doing."
"Told you I was prepared, Stark."
"Banner?"
"Yes, Stark, she brought the bike."
Tony's arc repulsors could be heard echoing through the comms as he found a group of men trying to escape. "How did I miss that?"
"We'll deal with it later," Steve said. "Focus on keeping track of that white van."
Bucky was standing at the corner when he heard screeching tires. Mikayla moved to the back of the seat, giving Bucky enough room to swing his leg over and sit down. "Slide back," he ordered. "Which way?"
Mikayla pointed, then calmly said in his ear, "If we don't catch up with him, I'm going to personally rip off your arm and beat you with it, James Buchanan Barnes, and not necessarily the metal arm."
"Yes, ma'am." Bucky revved the engine and took off in the direction Mikayla had pointed, gravel flying in all directions.
"Ooh, the full name treatment!"
"Can it, Wilson," Bucky growled.
"Hell hath no fury like a woman who missed a fitting and a bridal shower," Tony joked.
Thor interrupted the teasing. "I have spotted the white van with our archer in it. It's making a sharp turn to the right just ahead of your location, Master Barnes."
"Try to pull alongside it," Mikayla ordered. "I have a plan."
"Mind sharing it, Fitzgerald?" Bucky asked.
"Working on it, Barnes," Mikayla said through gritted teeth.