Brooke POV
Jill had busted out laughing when we arrived at our first stop of the night. Most ladies would want to go to a nice, expensive restaurant for their bachelorette party but Eden and I knew better. Jill was one of the most down to earth people I had ever met and a fancy restaurant just wasn't her thing. The old fashioned diner had been her favorite place to eat when the three of us were growing up, especially in high school. Not a single week had passed that we weren't there grabbing a burger or a milk shake. After every football game, Eden and I would meet Jill, still dressed in her cheerleading uniform, to grab some greasy food and sit at "our" booth to wind down the evening. I don't know how in the hell she stayed so damn thin. Every Friday night it was the same thing: A bacon cheeseburger with chili cheese fries and a large strawberry milkshake.
Her eyes had lit up when the limo driver opened the door and she saw where we had to chosen to take her to eat on her special night.
"Oh my God, I haven't been here in years!" she shrieked, turning to me as I stepped out of the limo. Eden was climbing out behind me and I heard her chuckling at Jill's obvious enthusiasm. I snapped a couple of pictures of Jill's reaction before turning around to look at Eden. Jill was so excited that she didn't notice when Eden suddenly stopped laughing and started looking around the parking lot slowly, her eyes narrowing slightly. I saw her fist clench up at her sides and her body went completely rigid.
Shit, what's that all about?
I glanced around and noticed the stares we were getting from people passing by. I figured the sudden attention might be putting her a little on edge. Hell, she had a right to be a little paranoid. Steve had told me about Milton Kaine...I knew he was hunting for Bucky and it was assumed he would be looking to use Eden as leverage to get what he wanted.
"It's not being paranoid if they really are out to get you"
I knew the only reason Bucky and Steve had even agreed to letting us go home without them was because Tommy and Blake were supposed to be with us. Now that they had to leave town, we were on our own and I knew Eden was struggling to not feel guilty for keeping it from Bucky. I know I had certainly felt a pang of guilt earlier when I had called Steve and not said anything to him about it.
It's not like you lied to him...you just didn't mention it.
Eden noticed me staring at her and in a flash she was back to her old self. It was almost eerie how quick her eyes lost the look of suspicion. I'm assuming the quick smile she threw me was meant to reassure me that everything was fine...honestly it worried me even more.
I watched as her and Jill made their way towards the entrance to the diner. I turned back around to see the limo driver Robert shaking his head with a smile when he noticed the people gawking at us. I had liked the middle aged man immediately when he had introduced himself and let us know that he was at our complete beck and call for the entire evening. He was dressed in the traditional chauffeur outfit, complete with cap, and seemed to always have a very serious look on his face. When I had told him where our first stop would be, he hadn't let it faze him at all. He simply nodded his head in understanding and held open the door while we piled inside. Before he had closed it, I thought had seen a hint of a smile on his face. I'm sure we weren't the type of clients he was used to driving around...mom had told me he was her friends best driver and was reserved for his high class clientele.
Robert let me know he would be right here when we were ready to go and I turned to follow Eden and Jill into the diner. Eden had called the owner earlier today from the spa while I distracted Jill and explained what we were doing for our friend. I wasn't surprised that Buddy Mills remembered the three of us, especially me. I had worked for him as a waitress for a short time one summer and had always enjoyed the elder man. He had owned and operated "Buddy's" for nearly 40 years and loved his regular customers. He had always insisted we call him by his first name even though he was easily old enough to be our grandfather. I can remember many nights when Buddy would be wiping down tables and see the three of us sitting in our booth giggling. He never hesitated to plop himself down in the booth and tell us stories about the wild things he did when he was our age...and boy, did Buddy have some stories!
He had listened to Eden's request and quickly agreed to participate in our mission to make this a night Jill would never forget. I smiled when I heard the familiar ding of the bell over the door as Jill walked inside the diner. Buddy must have let all the customers know what was going on because as soon as we entered, everyone inside started clapping and whistling. I looked over to see our favorite booth was decorated with white balloons and there stood my old boss, a big grin on his face.
Jill let out a giggle and walked over to give the gray haired man a tight hug before scooting into the booth. Eden followed behind her, giving him a long hug and whispering a thank you before taking the seat across from Jill. I was last and when he turned to me, he gave me a big smile, "Brooke Donovan, you are a sight for sore eyes young lady. You still giving everybody hell?"
I grinned and nodded my head, "You know it. I learned from the best" I said, patting him on the shoulder. I reached out for a hug and when I pulled away I said, "You're looking good"
Buddy let out a laugh and patted my back, "I know you're momma taught you better than to lie to an old man"
It had been almost five or so years since I had seen him and I knew he was well into his seventies by this point. He had aged quite a bit since I had last seen him but he still had the same mischievous glint in his eyes that I remembered seeing when I was a teenager. I gave him a quick kiss on the forehead, "I'd never lie to you old man"
I slipped into the booth beside Eden and looked over at my friends. When I glanced up, I saw Buddy had stepped away and was disappearing behind the counter and into the kitchen. I looked around the diner, taking in the familiar surrounds and smiling at all the memories the three of us had shared in this place.
It was Eden who spoke the words I was thinking, "It hasn't changed a bit. I have so many memories here" she said, looking at Jill before glancing in my direction.
We were giggling and reminiscing about our high school days when Buddy reappeared with a young lady trailing behind him holding a tray filled with food. We hadn't even ordered but by the looks of it, he remembered exactly what the three of us liked. Jill's eyes lit up when he laid the cheeseburger and fries down in front of her. She had already started to dig into the chili cheese fries when he placed the large strawberry milkshake down on the table. She closed her eyes and moaned in pleasure when she took the first sip.
"I'm not going to fit in my wedding dress next weekend and I don't even care" she said before taking a huge bite of her burger. Buddy laid mine and Eden's food down on the table and then excused himself to go wait on other customers.
We ate our food hungrily, licking our fingers and laughing at each other just like when we were younger.
"You guys are the best" Jill said as she slurped down the last of her milkshake. She frowned when it was empty and picked it up to pour the last little bit of liquid down her mouth. The young waitress suddenly appeared to grab our empty plates and I glanced over at Eden. She had quieted down and was staring out the window. She didn't move when I called her name so I nudged her with my foot. She finally snapped out of it but I could see how tense her body had suddenly become.
"What's wrong?" I asked quietly, not wanting Jill to hear us.
She glanced over to see Jill was still talking excitedly to the waitress before answering, "I don't know. It's probably nothing...I just keep having this feeling..."
"What kind of feeling?" I asked.
She looked back towards the window and stared out into the night before shaking her head, "Nothing...never mind"
"Eden..." I said suspiciously.
She gritted her teeth but then gave me a small smile, "It's nothing Brooke...really" she said, glancing over at Jill and then back to me. I knew she wanted me to drop it and for the sake of not ruining the night, I did just that.
Once our table was cleared, Buddy made his way over to us to say goodbye. Before leaving, we made him slip into the booth with us so we could have the waitress snap a few photos. The three of us each gave him a big hug before finally leaving. Robert saw us leaving and was out of the limo and opening the door for us before we had even made it over to him.
I let Eden and Jill get in first before leaning over to whisper our next destination into his ear. He gave me an amused look that quickly vanished when he saw me raise my eyebrow at him. He nodded his head and gave me a small smile before helping me into the limo. He shut the door gently behind me and I slid between Jill and Eden, throwing my arms around the two of them.
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Bucky POV
It was nearly an hour later when my phone rang again. Steve barely had a chance to press pause on the movie before I had answered, putting it on speaker phone in the process so he could hear too.
"Talk to me Clint" I demanded. I knew I was being rude but I had spent the last hour sitting on the couch with Steve worrying about Eden and Brooke. The notion of hopping into the SUV and driving to Eden's hometown had crossed my mind more than a few times in that time. I don't think either of us was watching the movie at this point. I had glanced over at Steve several times and caught him eyeing me back...we were both thinking the same thing. I was waiting to hear from Clint before I made up my mind on what to do.
"I think we may have a problem" he replied.
I looked over at Steve and he nodded his head at me before reaching to grab the remote and turn off the TV. I was already bending down to grab my boots and slip them on when Clint started to explain himself.
"I'm almost positive Eden is on to me" he continued.
Shit!
I stopped lacing up my boot and glanced at Steve...he stopped reaching for his shoe and sat back on the couch to listen as Clint went on.
"I've been keeping my distance but I swear she knows I'm here. I was hanging back in the parking lot of the restaurant their eating at just keeping my eye on them like you guys asked when she just stopped and suddenly started looking around. I get the feeling she knows she's being watched. Just now, I caught her looking out the window scanning the parking lot. I'm telling you, Eden's got that gut instinct guys. She definitely missed her calling in life...she would make a great agent" he said.
I angrily grumbled at his last comment. There was no way in hell I would ever let Eden work as an agent for SHIELD...not as long as I had anything to say about it.
"She hasn't spotted you yet though, right?" I asked.
I didn't want Eden to discover I had sent Clint there to follow them but I wasn't sure I was willing to pull him back either. I figured I could deal with her being mad at me...what I couldn't deal with is her getting hurt.
"No but if I keep this up guys, she's going to figure it out. Eden's smart. Honestly, I think they are fine on their own but I'll follow your lead Bucky. What do you want me to do?" he asked.
I looked over at Steve and we shared a look between us...he nodded his head at me and I knew he agreed with Clint. In the end though, he would ultimately let me decide what course of action to take. He knew how absolutely devoted I was to keeping Eden protected so if I was willing to relax a little, so was he. I was having an internal debate in my head...trying to decide what the worst thing that could happen would be. Clint had talked to Fury before leaving to follow the girls and it was confirmed that Kaine was still in Europe. The only real threat the girls faced was getting hit on by a bunch of drunk guys. I hated the idea of that happening but Steve and I being there to see it would only make the situation worse...I would end up beating the shit out of some asshole and possibly ruining Jill's bachelorette party. The girls had dealt with horny men before meeting me or Steve so there was no reason for us to crash their party and show up tonight.
Maybe you're being a little too paranoid Bucky. Maybe it's time to back off a little.
I let out a long sigh before finally making my decision, "Stay with them but pull back a bit. Don't interfere unless absolutely necessary. Steve and I are going to stay put here in D.C. Don't bother calling in every hour...just keep us updated by text"
I glanced back at Steve and he gave me a small smile, assuring me that I had made the right decision.
"Copy that" Clint said before disconnecting.
I laid my phone down on the coffee table and rubbed my face in frustration. I honestly wasn't comfortable with the decision I had just made but I knew it was probably the right one.
"You did the right thing Bucky. I trust Brooke to stay safe and Eden can take care of herself" Steve said as he reached over to pat me on the back.
"I hope your right Steve" I said, giving him a weak smile.
"Come on, we'll watch the movie and let the girls have their fun" he said, reaching for the remote.
I sat back as the movie resumed, trying very hard to keep my mind focused on it instead of wondering what Eden was doing at that moment. I looked my phone and willed her to call or text...I needed to hear from her and know she was okay.
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Eden POV
As I sat back on the leather seat next to Brooke, I tried to shake the weird feeling I had felt at the diner. It had started as soon as we had arrived and I had stepped out of the limo. It was an intense sense that someone was watching us. It wasn't the same as when Deacon Lister had been hunting me...I had felt an evil presence when that monster had been stalking me. No, this didn't feel menacing at all, just unsettling. This time I just felt like someone's eyes were on me and it was driving me crazy. Nat had told me all week that I needed to trust myself and go with my gut instincts and that's what I was doing.
I looked over at my two friends and smiled when I saw her and Jill pouring themselves another glass of champagne. When they passed me my glass, I smiled and took a small sip just to keep them happy. Brooke had already noticed and questioned me about my strange behavior at the restaurant but Jill was clueless and I wanted it to stay that way for now. I sat back on the leather seat while Brooke and Jill chatted and tried to think things out logically.
It could be Bucky...or Steve maybe? No, it can't be...they both promised they wouldn't follow us.
I reached in my jacket pocket for my phone so I could call him but suddenly stopped and pulled my hand away. I knew Bucky would never intentionally break a promise he made to me and neither would Steve. If he said he was staying home then that's where I would trust he was at this moment.
They had agreed to letting us come so easily though...because Tommy and Blake were coming too, right? Why had my usually overprotective boyfriend agreed to let me go off without him while Kaine was still out there without too much of a fight?
Son of a bitch! CLINT!
It suddenly became so clear that I felt like an idiot for not instantly making the connection. Of course...sending Clint was his way of not breaking his promise to me but still getting what he wanted.
What about what I wanted?
I reached for my phone, ready to call him and chew his ass out but once again I reluctantly stopped.
I looked at my watch to see it was only 6:30...if he knew I was angry that he had sent Clint to follow me, he might be worried enough to really come here. There was no point calling to yell at him right now. I wanted this night to be special for Jill and having my boyfriend show up and us getting into an argument would definitely put a damper on the evening. I also knew the moment he gave me those sad puppy dog eyes, I would give in and forgive him...right now I wanted to stay pissed off at him for a little while. I couldn't deny that his intentions were good, even if they were completely misguided, but I felt a little justified in my annoyance at him.
He could have just told me he was sending Clint...I would have understood!
No you wouldn't Eden. You would have fought tooth and nail with him.
That didn't mean I couldn't be majorly pissed off at Clint Barton though. I was going to kick his ass at our training session Monday morning. I knew he had known Bucky longer and he had a lot of respect for him but Clint was supposed to be my friend too.
I knew Clint would never show himself until it was necessary. I'm sure Bucky had given him strict orders to stay out of sight unless something happened and he needed to intervene. I also knew Bucky had probably told him not to let me out of his sight which meant he would have to follow us in at the next place we went. The karaoke bar we were currently heading to had no windows Clint would be able to see into...he'd have to come inside and take a seat if he wanted to keep an eye on us.
Natasha hadn't just spent this last week teaching me to fight...our sessions had been private for a reason. She had taught me how to observe my surroundings and the people around me. It was surprising how much you could learn from someone by just sitting back and watching them long enough. It was finally time for me to take my training into the real world. Nat was an excellent agent and an even better teacher...I felt pretty confident once I got Clint out in the open, I would be able to spot him.
I smiled to myself, suddenly eager to show Clint exactly how good of a student I could be...he had no idea everything Natasha had been showing me during our training the last week. I was still pissed at him but in the end, I knew Clint was just like Bucky...everything he did was because he cared. It was time for them to learn to have a little faith in me...I didn't always need them there to protect me. Bucky wasn't here but unfortunately for Clint, he was and I figured it was about time to teach him a lesson.
I felt the limo slowing down and I knew we must have arrived at the first bar of the evening. I looked over at Jill and Brooke to give them a big grin. Brooke looked a little suspicious at first but once she realized it was a genuine smile, her eyes lit up and she laughed.
"I know that look Eden Page!" she said.
I batted my eyelashes and gave them my most innocent expression, "Whatever do you mean Brooke?"
She snorted in a very unlady like fashion, "I've seen that look in your eyes...it's all wicked and shit. You're planning something. Come on Eden, spill it!"
I looked over at Jill, debating on whether to say anything about our body guard waiting in the shadows. She had taken the news yesterday about Bucky and Steve without blinking an eye so I figured what the hell. I quickly told them my suspicions and I saw both their eyes widen in surprise. I thought for a second that Brooke might be ticked off but then a sly grin appeared on her face and I knew she was thinking along my lines.
"Oh we so have to fuck with him as payback" she said firmly.
We both looked at Jill to see she was nodding her head, "Oh this night just keeps getting better and better" She laughed at our expressions and went on, "Come on, it's not every day I get to meet one of the Avengers. So what's the plan Eden?"
I shook my head, "I haven't gotten that far. First, I have to find him. You guys just act natural and let me take care of everything...then we can have our fun"
The door to the limo opened and Robert poked his head in to let us know we had arrived. We piled out to pose in front of the karaoke bar and asked Robert to snap a few pictures of us. Once again, he let us know he would be waiting right there when we were ready to leave and then turned to get back into the limo.
Brooke wrapped one arm around and my shoulder and the other around Jill's, "Well ladies, let's give them hell"
She started dragging us inside the bar but not before I took one look behind us. I didn't expect Clint to be standing right there but I felt that same familiar feeling and I knew he was watching. I raised my hand up in a wave and then turned back around, chuckling to myself.
I'm sure that shocked the shit out of him!
Thirty minutes later, I was sure that we were giving Clint a damn heart attack. From the time we walked in to the bar, we made our presence known and the men flocked to us. Since I knew he was out there, charged with the one task of keeping us safe, I loosened up completely...probably way more than I should have and definitely more than I ever would if Bucky was around.
I was completely devoted to him but I had to admit it was fun being the center of attention. I had never craved it before, mostly because I knew it could lead to trouble in this kind of setting. But now, knowing that I could fight these guys off if I needed to, I felt a surge of power in me that I had never felt before...it was positively exhilarating.
Upon walking in, we had found an open table directly in the center of the bar not far from the stage. We had barely had a chance to throw back our first round of shots when a small group of guys started circling us like hungry sharks out for blood. It was obvious by the sashes we were wearing why we were out celebrating...they knew Jill was obviously taken but apparently me and Brooke were fair game.
Ha! That's what they think! If Bucky was here right now, he'd tear them apart.
I tried to keep my eye on the door so I could see who entered...I knew Clint would show up eventually, he couldn't sit outside the entire time if he wanted to keep us out of trouble. As hard as I tried to watch the door though, I let my eyes slip a few times and now I was sure I had missed him. I could feel his eyes on me but I hadn't been able to spot him yet.
What did you expect? Clint's an expert; he's been doing this a long time.
I tried to inconspicuously look around as I sipped on my drink, barely paying attention to the blonde guy who was trying to chat me up. Jill and Brooke were talking to the blonde guy's friends, trying to keep them occupied while I searched the room. Clint knew I was on to him but that didn't mean he was going to make this easy for me and I'm sure he knew I was keeping my eye out for him. I finally decided to give it a rest for a little while and get back to enjoying myself.
Brooke and Jill had started begging me to get up on stage and sing the moment we walked in and now had the group of guys trying to wear me down too. I let them have their way knowing that once I was up there I would have a better view of the bar and could hopefully spot Clint in the crowd. I figured this was going to happen so I had already decided on a song...one that I thought would fit the night perfectly. I watched as Brooke went over to the karaoke guy to let him know the song I had chosen.
I had eaten a full meal and had been sipping on my drink slowly since the first round of shots. I wanted to have fun but I also was smart enough not to get completely drunk just yet. Once I had a visual confirmation that Clint was there to back me up, I could go all out. The guys who were standing around trying to talk to us were drinking pretty steadily and kept getting louder and louder. I was quickly becoming annoyed with them.
Once Brooke returned, she gave me the thumbs up sign and told me that the karaoke guy was ready for me. I stood up from my bar stool and quickly downed the rest of my drink. The four men around us started cheering and whistling when I slipped out of my leather jacket. I looked down at myself, noticing exactly how much cleavage I was showing and how short the tank top I was wearing actually was...several inches of my bare stomach was peeking out from the hem of it. Usually I would have felt self-conscious at all the attention but I only felt that familiar surge of power again. I gave Brooke and Jill high fives before making my way towards the stage.
I was right...once I was up on stage I had a way better view of the place. The karaoke guy got up there and introduced me before telling the crowd I would be singing Circus by Britney Spears. He handed me the microphone as he walked off and I stepped up to take center stage. I tried not to let the loud cheers and clapping distract me. While I waited for the music to start, I scanned the room in search of Clint. Everyone in the bar had their eyes on me...all except one.
Ah ha! There you are!
I could tell it was him the moment I laid my eyes on him. He was the only person in the room not watching me. He was wearing a baseball cap and had his head down but I could see his side profile...it was definitely him.
I glanced over at Brooke and Jill and gave them a triumphant smile, winking at them. They both started grinning, knowing that I had spotted Clint. I saw them both look around the room but stopped when they saw me give them a small shake of my head.
I held up my hand to motion to the crowd I had something to say and then put the microphone up to my mouth. "I'd like to dedicate this song to a very special person out in the crowd tonight...he knows who I'm talking about. I just want to let you know that you're busted and I hope you are ready for a very long night. We're going to give you hell mister"
I watched Clint as I spoke and even from the side, I could see him shake his head and smile. He finally raised his head and looked in my direction. When we locked eyes with each other, he raised his beer at me before taking a small sip. I gave him a cocky smile and then motioned to the karaoke guy that I was now ready.
The music started and I finally loosened up completely...I even danced a little as I sang, encouraged by the cheers I was getting from the crowd.
There's only two types of people in the world
The ones that entertain and the ones that observe
Well baby, I'm a put-on-a-show kind of girl
Don't like the backseat, gotta be first
I'm a like the ringleader, I call the shots
I'm like a firecracker I make it hot
When I put on a show
I feel the adrenaline moving through my veins
Spotlight on me and I'm ready to break
I'm like a performer, the dance floor is my stage
Better be ready, hope that you feel the same
All eyes on me in the center of the ring, just like a circus
When I crack that whip, everybody gonna trip just like a circus
Don't stand there watching me, follow me, show me what you can do
Everybody let go, we can make a dance floor, just like a circus.
I looked out into the crowd and noticed Clint had disappeared from his booth. As I sang the rest of the song, I searched the room and smiled when I saw that he had made his way closer to the table where Jill and Brooke were sitting. He was leaning against a wall keeping an eye on them. I finished the song and bowed when everyone started clapping and cheering. I made my way off the stage and passed the microphone off to the next person prepared to sing.
My eyes instantly fell on Clint and I saw him raise one eyebrow at me. Instead of heading back to my table to join the girls, I detoured and made my way around to him. I wanted to talk to him alone before Brooke and Jill spotted him. He had his head down but his eyes were focused completely on his surroundings.
Natasha had told me that Clint definitely had her beat when it came to surveillance. He spent hours at a time perched up high with the single task of watching what was going on around him. She said when he was out in public he spent the majority of his time just observing everything, always keeping an eye out for possible threats...it had been what he was trained to do. Honestly, that didn't sounds like a very enjoyable way to spend an evening out and I was determined to get the Hawkeye to loosen up a bit.
He said nothing when I came to lean up against the wall next to him. I wasn't sure if he thought I was angry at him and it was safer to let me talk first or if he was just really concentrating on watching the room. I waited a few more seconds before I finally slid over closer and nudged him with my arm.
He finally spoke up, "Exactly how mad are you right now?"
I bit back a smile and glanced over to see him give me a look before resuming his watch. It was quick but I saw the flash of guilt in his eyes.
Well, at least I know he feels bad about it. I can definitely use that to my advantage tonight.
I crossed my arms over my chest before speaking, "Let's just say that I plan on kicking your ass Monday morning during our training session...and you're definitely paying the next time we go to lunch"
I guess my joking tone and the fact that I confirmed I still planned on seeing him next week as usual made him feel better. I saw him relax a little and try to hide the smile forming on his face.
"It's okay Clint, I get it. I know it wasn't your idea. It's not like you volunteered for the job"
I thought about that last part for a second before finally turning my entire body to face him, "...or did you?" I asked suspiciously.
This wasn't the first time that Clint had come running when Bucky had called wanting me to be followed to ensure my "safety". I thought back to that night Bucky had finally told me about Kaine. I had gotten upset and left the apartment without him to clear my head. I remembered how Clint had been the one to find me beating the shit out of those two assholes that night and how proud he had seemed.
He chuckled and turned to shake his head at me, "No"
I nodded my head at him and looked back out into the crowd. I smirked when I heard the next words out of his mouth, "Bucky didn't give me the opportunity. He asked me to do it before I even had a chance to volunteer"
I let out a short laugh, "You two are absolutely unbelievable sometimes"
"The guy is in love with you Eden, what do you expect?" he said quietly, not bothering to look my way.
I nodded my head again, "I know he loves me which is why I get HIM going above and beyond..."I said, turning back in his direction, "...but what's your excuse?"
He didn't look my way but I saw his cheeks flush red and he shrugged his shoulders. I waited for him to say something and when he didn't, I nudged him with my foot impatiently, "I'm waiting"
He cleared his throat, "In my line of work, you don't exactly run into many opportunities to make friends Eden" he mumbled.
I knew what he was trying to say and I tried not to laugh at his obvious level of discomfort at speaking it out loud. I waited for a few seconds before saying"...and?"
He narrowed his eyes at me but I just kept giving him my most innocent look.
"I swear you and Natasha are just alike...always got to push my buttons" he grumbled.
I stood there not saying a work, waiting patiently for him to go on.
With a sigh, he finally said, "...and you're my friend. I don't make them very easily so yes, I get a little overprotective of the few that I have. Sue me!" he finished.
I gave him a sly smile before slipping my arm over his shoulders, "Aww, you're just a big old softy...I love you too Clint" I said jokingly.
He pushed me away playfully, "You better shut it before someone overhears you and I get my ass stomped into the ground by your super soldier boyfriend"
"Don't worry, I'll protect you from my big, bad Bucky" I laughed.
He rolled his eyes at me, "So are we good?" he asked.
"Oh no! No sir! I'm not letting you off that easy. You're going to have to work hard for my forgiveness. You can start by joining in on the celebration...and not as our shadow but as my friend. You actually have to hang out with us and enjoy yourself" I said.
He gave me a sly smile and nodded his head in agreement, "Fine"
"...and you have to do whatever we ask of you" I continued.
He hesitated a moment but after seeing the look I gave him, he nodded, "Fine"
"...and one last thing"
He let out a long, deep sigh, "I have a feeling I'm going to regret asking this...what?"
"...you have to wear the tiara"
"Bullshit" he said, laughing as I took his arm and dragged him towards the table where Jill and Brooke were sitting.
The group of guys had not returned to the table and I cast a quick glance over at Clint, "You didn't by chance scare the shit out of those guys who were lurking around us earlier, did you?"
The cunning smile he gave me confirmed my suspicions, "I don't know what you're talking about" he said.
I raised an eyebrow at him and he chuckled, "What did you do?" I asked.
He gave a noncommittal shrug, "I may have had a few words with them" I rolled my eyes at him and he spoke up again, "What? I promised Bucky and Steve I would look after you guys. What kind of bodyguard would I be if I let a bunch of dicks bother you ladies all night?"
I was still laughing when we reached the table and quickly introduced Clint to Jill. Brooke gave him a wry smile and said, "So nice of you to finally join us Agent Barton. Have you been enjoying the show?"
He shook his finger at her and then threw a look at both me and Jill before replying, "You three are trouble. I don't think I quite knew what I was getting myself into when I took this gig"
The three of us erupted into a fit of giggles. I finally flagged down a waitress and ordered us another round of shots, making sure to order a double for Clint.
I turned to Jill and pointed to the tiara that was sitting on her head, "Can I borrow that for a moment?"
She grinned and promptly pulled it off her head to pass it over to me. Clint was already backing away from me before I even had it in my hands.
"No way, I'm not putting that on my head" he said, pointing to the sparkling tiara I held.
I gave him a pointed look, "You'll do whatever I say Clint Barton...or you're back on my shit list"
We glared at each other for several moments before I finally saw him give in. He scowled at me as I placed it delicately atop his head. The waitress let out a snort of laughter when she reappeared to drop off our second round of shots. She was nice enough to snap a couple of pictures of the four of us using both the camera and my cell phone. Me, Jill, and Brooke were smiling wide and Clint had an unhappy frown plastered on his face.
I quickly attached it to a text message that I sent to both Bucky and Steve. Clint was passing back the tiara to Jill when he saw the smirk on my face and the phone in my hand.
"Please tell you didn't just do what I think you did?" he said, pointing at my cell phone.
I nodded my head and gave him an evil smile, "Oh I did!"
An annoyed expression swept over his face before he picked up his first shot and downed it...the second followed just as quickly.
I caught the eye of our waitress and motioned to her that Clint needed another shot...she gave me a smile and nodded her head before heading in the direction of the bar. She was back at our table moments later with another shot for him.
"You three are going to be the death of me" he said, before we each raised our glasses and took the shot.
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Bucky POV
Steve and I had just finished watching the first Rocky movie when our phones both beeped simultaneously. We looked at each other before reaching for our phones to see who the message was from.
Steve was closer to his phone and managed to view the message first. I glanced up at him when he let out a loud laugh and shook his head. He motioned for me to look at the message.
I finally got it pulled up and I couldn't help but let out a chuckle as well, shocked by what I was seeing.
Eden: You and Steve are so BUSTED! Just know that once we're done torturing Clint, we're coming for the two of you! You've been WARNED!
Below the text message was a picture of the girls posing with Clint, a silver tiara sitting atop his head. They were smiling wide while Clint had a big scowl on his face.
Well, at least she doesn't seem pissed off that we sent him.
I had to admit that I was a little jealous seeing Clint hanging out with the girls while Steve and I were forced to stay home. I quickly pushed the feelings aside...the only reason Clint was even there was because I had asked him to go. My eyes went back to the picture and fell on Eden's smiling face. She looked like she was having fun...happy and...
...she looks hot! That is not the damn shirt she took with her to wear.
I figured Brooke or Jill or hell, maybe even both of them had given her a hard time and made her wear something a lot more revealing. I bit my tongue to keep myself from getting too angry and tossed my phone back onto the coffee table. Honestly, knowing she wasn't angry at me was enough to make me feel a huge sense of relief.
"Well, I feel a lot better" Steve said, setting his phone down on the table "We know the girls are safe and having a good time and I can stop feeling so damn guilty for keeping it a secret from Brooke"
I didn't get a chance to answer him because my phone suddenly beeped again and I reached for it.
Eden: I need you to promise me something.
Bucky: Anything
Eden: Promise you are going to stay in DC and not come here tonight.
Bucky: I promise.
Eden: I'm going to hold you to your word Bucky. No matter what videos or pictures Brooke and Jill may send you...you stay there with Steve, ok?
Dammit!
Bucky: Ok...please stay out of trouble. This is hard enough as it is already.
Eden: Me? Trouble? LOL! I love you. I'll try and call you later.
Bucky: Don't just try. I NEED you to call me later. I love you too. Be careful.
I finally laid my phone down with a sigh and told Steve what Eden had just said. He looked back down at his phone curiously.
"I wonder what they're up to. I really hope they don't do anything stupid" he said.
"Barton better do his job and keep them out of trouble...that's all I have to say about it" I said heatedly.
Steve gave me a quick pat on the back, "Come on Buck. Let's watch the next Rocky movie and let the girls have their fun. You know Clint will take care of them"
I gave him a nod and watched as he got up to switch out the DVD's. I couldn't help but stare down at my phone and think of Eden. I was ready for this night to hurry up and be over with already.
Every once in a while, Steve or I would receive a random text message...either with a video or a photo that one of the girls had taken. The first time it happened, it had been a text message from Eden's phone to me with a photo of her and Brooke up on stage singing together.
For the next couple of hours, it went on and on...videos of them singing, photos of them making silly faces...each time me or Steve got a message, I started to feel a little better. They seemed to be having fun and staying safe in the process, just like I had requested.
It was nearly 11:00 and we had just started the third Rocky movie when Steve's phone rang. We both looked at each other in surprise before he reached for it.
"It's Brooke" he said with a silly grin on his face.
He pressed the button to answer and then put it on speakerphone so I could hear, "Hey Brooke" he said happily.
"Steve!" I heard Brooke giggle into the phone.
"Bucky's here with me and I have you on speakerphone" he said softly, almost as a warning.
I laughed to myself...I knew that was Steve's way of telling her to watch what she said in front of me. I definitely didn't need or want to hear their pillow talk.
"Bucky!" she screamed back.
"Hey Brooke" I said, sitting back and smiling, "You guys having fun?"
"We're having a blast! I made Eden sing Oops I Did it Again...again! Get it?" she said, "Cause, you know...she sang before and now she's done it again! At least she didn't fall down this time" she said, more to herself than into the phone for me or Steve to hear.
Steve tried to stifle a laugh, "Speaking of Eden...is she around? I'm sure Bucky would like to say hello to her"
I threw him a grateful look and he gave me a quick smile before looking back down at his phone for Brooke to answer.
"Her and Clint are at the bar getting us more drinks...and Jill went to the little girls room. So you two are just stuck with me" she said, hiccupping suddenly.
We listened to Brooke drunkenly babble on for a few minutes before Jill finally returned to the table. She had to get on the phone and say hi to both of us and was in the middle asking Steve what is was like to be a superhero when we heard a loud crash in the background.
"What the fuck was that? Who the hell is fighting?" I heard Brooke asking.
"Brooke, what's going on?" Steve asked, his eyes wide.
"Hold on babe, I think there's a bar fight breaking out" she slurred.
A full minute went by before she we heard her whisper to herself, "Oh shit!"
I couldn't take it anymore, "Brooke! Where's Eden? What the fuck is going on?" I demanded loudly.
"Uhh...Eden is kind of busy Bucky" she said. I heard a loud crash in the background and then cheering, "Let's just say she has her hands full right now and leave it at that"
Steve spoke up, "Where's Clint at Brooke...let us talk to him"
"Uhh, Clint's a little busy right now too" Brooke said, suddenly laughing and letting out a loud whistle and clapping.
"What are Clint and Eden doing Brooke?" I asked angrily, gritting my teeth in frustration.
She suddenly yelled out, "That's my girl! Beat his ass!"
"Brooke" I shouted, trying to get her attention.
"Hey, hey, hey! No need to shout Bucky boy" Brooke said laughing.
I threw my hands up in frustration and gave Steve a look, pleading to him with my eyes to get his girlfriend to give a straight answer.
"Brooke? Sweetie?" he said calmly. If I wasn't so anxious at the moment I would have laughed and given him hell for the "sweetie" comment but right now I wanted to know what the fuck was going on.
"Yes baby?" I heard her reply.
Steve couldn't help but smile, "Can you please tell us what's going on? Where are Clint and Eden?"
"Eden's going to be pissed if I tell you" Brooke said quietly.
"Please?" Steve asked again.
I heard Brooke sigh, "Well, because you asked so nicely...uhhh, let's see! Right now, Eden's beating the shit out of a couple of guys...and Clint...hmmm, where did he go?! OH! There he is! Now Clint's trying to drag her off of one of them"
My mouth dropped open, "What?" I roared.
"It's okay Bucky. Eden's totally got this..."
She stopped talking and I heard her gasp loudly into the phone. She was suddenly no longer talking to us, "...oh hell no! Hold my drink Jill...I said hold my fucking drink! NOW!"
I could hear Jill in the background telling Brooke to stay out of it and then she was shouting Clint's name. I ran my hands through my hair and then looked from Steve and then down to the phone, listening to the commotion on the other end.
We suddenly heard Brooke shouting, "Nobody lays their fucking hand on my friend you fucking piece of shit!"
What the fuck! I swear to God if someone has laid their hands on Eden, they're dead!
I heard a grunt of pain coming from someone, a male from the sound of it...more than likely it was whoever Brooke had been yelling at...I had a feeling she was doing more than just yelling at him at this point.
I felt only a little relief when I finally heard Eden's voice, "Back off Brooke, this asshole is mine!" I heard the sound of a fist making contact with flesh...over and over again.
Finally we heard Clint's voice, "Wow Eden! It's over...I think he's learned his lesson. Come on, let's get out of here"
"I gave him fair warning Clint...he went too fucking far..." Eden said between deep breaths. A few seconds passed before I heard her voice again, "...Brooke, who the fuck are you on the phone with?"
I heard Brooke let out a nervous giggle, "Umm..."
"Give me that" I heard Eden say. She must have snatched he phone away from Brooke and finally looked down to see the caller ID, "Steve?" she asked.
"Yeah it's me Eden" Steve spoke up after clearing his throat.
I heard Eden sigh, "Please tell me Bucky isn't there with you and that he didn't hear everything that just happened"
I was pacing around the room furiously, fists clenched tightly at my sides. I was pissed. She was supposed to be staying out of trouble, not getting involved in a fucking bar fight.
Steve looked over at me before replying, "Sorry Eden"
She let out a groan, "Damn"
I reached my hand out for the phone and stared Steve down until he finally handed it to me. I took it off speakerphone and walked out of the living room before speaking, "Eden?"
"Uh, hey baby" she said uncertainly.
"Don't hey baby me...what the fuck is going on?" I commanded.
"Nothing me and Clint couldn't handle...trust me" she said seriously.
"Trust you? You just got in a damn bar fight!" I yelled out.
I heard her chuckle, "...and I won!" she said, obviously a little proud of herself. I'm sure after I calmed down a little, I might be a little proud of her too but right now I was fuming.
"Eden!" I said in a warning tone.
"I'm fine Bucky...really" she said.
"What the fuck is Clint doing? He's supposed to be watching you three. You promised you would be careful...getting in a bar fight doesn't sound like you're being very careful." I replied.
"Trust me, Clint was doing exactly what you asked him to do...things just got a little out of hand and I had to come to his rescue" she said laughing.
I could hear Clint in the background say, "You wouldn't have had to come to my rescue if you had kept your mouth shut. Like I said earlier, you three are going to be the death of me"
"Eden" I said loudly to get her attention.
She let out a sigh, "Bucky, I love you but I have to go. We're about to get in the limo. I promise to behave the rest of the night"
I bit my tongue and didn't say anything...she realized I was angry... enough so that I might drive all the way to her hometown right now just to shake some sense into her.
"You promised Bucky..." she said carefully.
"...just like you promised to be careful..." I reminded her.
"I'm sorry baby...really I am. I don't want you mad at me and I really don't want to fight with you" she said solemnly "If it makes you feel better, we're done with bars for the rest of the night" she finished hopefully.
It didn't really make me feel better...the only way I was going to even sleep tonight was when her night out was over and she finally called me. No, scratch that! I'd only truly feel better once she was back in DC and home with me.
"I don't want to fight with you either Eden" I finally said.
"Are you mad?" she asked quietly.
"Fucking furious" I replied "...but we both know I'll get over it" I finally added.
I heard her let out a sigh of relief, "Sometimes I don't know if I deserve someone as great as you Bucky. Everyone is waiting on me, I have to go. I love you" she said quickly and the phone disconnected before I could say anything else.