Natasha's P.O.V

I smiled. Practice was over and I was about to head home for the day. The newbies were a cross between pathetic and just plain clueless. Most of them didn't even know how to use basic weapons.

As the "hopeful candidates" left Fury started walking towards his office. "Agent Romanoff, we need to talk."

I'll admit I was a bit nervous as I walked a few steps behind Fury. I wondered what he wanted. It was very rarely he wanted to speak in private. Or speak at all. He usually sent my assignments to me via email. I closed the door behind me as I stepped into his office. He walked behind his desk and took a deep breath before continuing. "Agent, you've been working very hard the last few weeks an-"

I cut him off. "Please just cut to the chase."

"As I was saying you have been working hard, and many of your colleagues hinted to me that you've been a bit antsy lately. So I've decided that you, need a break." Fury looked me over waiting to see my reaction.

"Break as in fire?" I raised my eyebrow as he let out a low chuckle.

"Of course not. Your one of shields best assets we wouldn't terminate your work for us unless necessary. We just think it's in your best interest. You haven't taken a day off in what now, a year?"

"Director. It's in my line of work that I take my job very seriously. I don't slack off. Plus I don't need a vacation." I spoke calmly, even if I knew I needed that vacation, he shouldn't be able to tell.

"Natasha. You've worked with shield for a long time now. I know you take your job seriously, as you should. But I also know you don't like to show weakness. Taking a break isn't weakness. And with that said. Your vacation has officially started. Your to be back in a month. No more, no less." He spoke firmly and I knew the decision was final.

"Bu-" This time he cut me off.

"No buts, have fun agent. Last time I checked there were alot of things to do in New York."

Clint's P.O.V

I was leaning back in my favorite reclining chair sipping a lukewarm cup of tea slowly. Natasha was talking so fast all I could do was nod quietly and listen. I invited her over after a speedy phone call of her saying we needed to talk.

"So basically you're on vacation, by force and your complaining?" I asked jokingly and she glowered at me I tried to lighten her mood with a smile. "All i'm saying is that you're getting a break. And quite frankly I think you need it."

"You were the one who "mentioned" to Fury that I needed a break. Didn't you?" She replied moving in a bit closer as if she were interrogating me.

"Maybe.. But if I did, and i'm not saying I did or did not. I'd do it in your best interest." She nodded at this and her expression seemed to calm.

I honestly didn't bring the topic up to Fury. But he did ask me what I thought about her current state.

"I'm just upset because lately I've been so focused on." She paused and took another sip of tea. "Work I guess and with Phil's death and everything it's been crazy."

"How bout this. I'll make sure you won't die of boredom during your vacation." I set the now empty cup on the deep mocha table between us.

"And how do you plan to do that?" She raised her eyebrow curiously.

"That's for me too know and for you too find out Ms. Romanoff." she rolled her eyes as I spoke.

"Don't you have a job to attend to Mr. Barton?" she replied, picking up the two mugs and bringing them to the kitchen.

I walked over to her grinning just a tad. "About that.."