Warnings: Mention of PTSD and maternity-related issues.

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The Baby

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One of the most complex aspects of having a celebrity status was keeping a private life. In a world with super-villains and evil organizations, Earth's Mightiest Heroes needed to be extremely cautious, having their families under the spotlight.

The most serious warning came at the 2014 Halloween Masquerade Ball hosted by Maria Stark Foundation. Almost five months pregnant, Bobbi was starting to show, so she remained in the VIP area, which had been assembled for the team and close friends. Despite the heavy security, a waiter managed to snap a revealing photo of the athletic blonde, and sold it to paparazzi. Almost instantly, the gossip magazines went crazy, speculating about the first Avenger baby.

Unfortunately, that wasn't the most disturbing part.

The real danger came in a few days later, when her car was ambushed by a fully armed gang called the Death-Throws. Driving one of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s high-tech, armored vehicles, which minimized the crash impact, Bobbi remained safe and sent a distress signal. Hawkeye and the new Captain America arrived in a hurry, and the two Avengers crushed the kidnappers with no mercy. Bucky arrested them all, while Clint escorted his wife back to the Tower.

After a thorough investigation, S.H.I.E.L.D. discovered a connection between the secret camera used by the waiter and the attempted kidnapping. The whole thing was part of a revenge plan against Hawkeye and Mockingbird, orchestrated by a former adversary, who had been defeated by the couple about a year ago. Responsible for a number of criminal operations, including extortion and assassinations, the unscrupulous William Cross, codename Crossfire, had perceived the pregnant agent as the easier target.

And that was the most terrifying fact.

Thanks to Bobbi's great physical condition and extensive training, both she and the baby were unharmed, but the psychological trauma was devastating. She had to remain in observation for a couple of weeks, struggling with PTSD. Worryingly, high levels of stress were major known cause of premature labor.

The risks were too high, and the Avengers decided to keep their personal lives and loved ones even more hidden from the public eye – and their enemies. The security measures increased exponentially, particularly around the two expectant mothers – since Natasha was already pregnant too. Just few selected people were allowed to know about their real status.

Following their original plan, Bruce and Betty eloped in secrecy, a week before Christmas. Even with paparazzi stalking them everywhere and the amount of gossips created about the team, the year ended without any other major incident.

With the start of March, the media became frenzied, anticipating the celebrity wedding of all times – Tony and Pepper's. Fortunately, everything went perfectly as planned, and the whole world stopped to watch the playboy, billionaire, genius, superhero tying the knot, on the first day of spring.

Unbeknownst to the public, the first Avenger baby had been born on the 2nd, a little earlier than expected, but perfectly healthy, and in total privacy.

Sunday, May 5th, 2015.

Avengers Tower. Hawkingbird floor.

Francis Barton brought a state of joy to the team… a sense of a real family. The blonde haired, grey eyed baby was nothing but adorable, and at two months of age, he was starting to show his active personality – exactly like his father.

This would be the first Mother's Day to be actually celebrated by the group. In order to make something truly special, they organized a task force, splitting the daily duties among themselves, to give the new parents a precious gift – a little free time.

With less than a month from her due date, Natasha had the most important and pleasant assignment at all – to watch the baby sleep peacefully in the nursery.

After settling his wife in the comfortable couch by the crib, Steve put a soft blanket over her, before kissing her gently on the lips. "Try and relax, okay? I'll be right outside with the guys."

Pleased, the redhead nodded with a smile, "I'll take a nap myself. But I'll call if he wakes up."

The couple looked back at Bobbi, and the Captain reassured, "Don't worry. I'll keep an eye on them."

"Thank you both," the blonde replied full of gratitude, knowing that her son was loved and surrounded by the people she trusted the most.

After all that had happened, no one could blame the veteran agent for being a little overprotective as a new mother. But for a couple of hours, she indulged herself with simple things, like relaxing in the bathtub.

No sooner did Francis wake up crying than his mother was back, "Mommy's here." Nestling him in her caring arms, Bobbi sat on the rocking chair, and started to breastfeed the baby.

Still sleepy, Natasha observed the tender moment, and complimented, "You're so amazing with him."

"Ah, Nat… He's my angel. I can't imagine my life without him."

"Do you need anything? What else can I do?"

"You already did, honey, being here," Bobbi replied kindly, "I feel so rested now."

Natasha smirked, "Actually, we both slept the whole time."

"I trust you, even with your eyes closed."

After the assault, the two women had become even close to one another, to Clint's delight. Despite their very different personalities, they had a lot to share, being pregnant at the same time.

A little emotional, Bobbi confessed, "I couldn't leave him with anyone else, you know it, right? I'm still so scared that anything can harm him…"

"Don't worry about this, okay? That's why we're here."

"I know. Thanks. The doctor said it's not postpartum depression, but stress… from before."

With empathy and understanding, Natasha tried to comfort Bobbi, "Let's just remember that our security is the best that it is, that we're completely safe here. And the boys have been always around, right?"

Undoubtedly, one of the great advantages of the Avengers Tower was its huge size. With the amount of facilities, they all could work and live there, in a kind of community, but still having their own privacy. As much as possible, Clint and Steve had avoided long external assignments, but whenever they both needed to be away, one of the Avengers would step up, so that the girls would never felt completely unattended. Especially Bucky, who had taken his role as James' godfather with absolute pride and responsibility, and turned out to be one of the most caring uncles.

All the protection had a very positive impact, helping Bobbi to deal with her anxiety issues. "Yeah, they're all great" she smiled playfully, "But they're spoiling Francis!"

Natasha teased, "Can't blame us, can you?"

Francis had just finished breastfeeding, and Bobbi smiled with pride, asking, "Wanna hold him for me? Until he burps?"

"Ah, yes!"

The attentive mother put a cloth over Natasha's shoulder, before handling her the baby. "Let's not spit on Auntie Nat."

Supporting him against her chest, and gently rubbing his back, the redhead was all smiles, "He's growing so fast."

Despite being considered an early-term baby, born at 38 weeks, Francis was developing quickly and without any complications, to Bobbi's joy, "Thank God! And he's having only breast milk."

"Nature's way."

As if on cue Francis burped really big and loud, and the two women laughed.

"Come to mommy!" Bobbi picked him up and started to change his diaper.

"You make everything seem so easy."

"It's easier than I thought, you know?"

"I hope I can say the same," Natasha caressed her very rounded belly, "Soon."

"You'll be fine."

"I'm not so sure about that."

"Trust me. I grew up in a big family, lots of kids everywhere. I saw all kinds of mothers. You're the calm one," Bobbi winked, "My mom says we don't need to know everything, but with calm and patience, we can learn anything. The key is not to panic."

Natasha couldn't help but imagining what it would like to have her own mother next to her, at this important moment. "It's a good advice," she replied, a bit wishfully.

"Of course, she has to complain about something, so she said I'm too impatient. What's true. But that I have good instincts."

"This life is so different from our time as field agents, but you fit it perfectly."

"Well, that was what I always wanted, you know? Back when I was studying biochemistry, to be a scientist. I didn't plan to become a secret agent. It complicated things a lot, but I don't regret it, since it's how I met Clint."

"He would be lost without you."

Bobbi smiled widely, "Even through a very tortuous path, I'm living my dream. Aren't you?"

Natasha was nothing but sincere, "I never thought I could have something like this. But now… I can't imagine anything different."

Meanwhile, organizing the festive meal, Pepper and Betty chatted quietly about their own lives. Both married to superheroes geniuses, who happened to be each other's best friend, the oldest women in the group had also developed a natural bond.

Always perceptive and attentive towards her friends, Pepper asked with concern, "Are you okay, with all this mommy-talk?"

"No one can hide anything from you, can't we?" Betty gave her a small laugh, replying, "I'm fine. It's just… Days like today make me wonder… about a normal, simple life… a beautiful family, like what Clint and Bobbi have now."

"Yeah… I understand. I'm truly happy for them. But I won't deny it… I wouldn't mind some normality for a change."

"When Bruce and I were young, we dreamed about having all of this… Anyway… That's in the past now."

"But if it's something you want…"

"No, dear, I don't," Betty replied firmly, and after a long pause, her voice was full of melancholy. "After the accident that turned him into the Hulk, Bruce disappeared. I was heartbroken. I searched everywhere for him, and wanted to wait forever. But eventually, I tried to move on. I was working at Culver University when I met a psychiatrist, Leonard Samson, and we started to date. He was a really nice guy, who would have given me everything I wanted – love, stability, and children. But the moment that Bruce showed up, he was back to my life and I knew it," she opened a shy smile, "I will never love anyone like I love Bruce. I made my choice, and I'm okay with it. Even if it means that I can't have the dream family."

"He's crazy about you. Before you got back together, he was truly miserable. We were all worried about him, always alone."

Blushing, Betty was even more heartfelt, "Deep inside, he's the same sweet man I fell in love with, years ago. But he needs me all the time. I won't lie to you. Everything between us is complicated, controlled. It's like living in a freaking lab. His mind is in a permanent conflict, where Bruce and Hulk clash for control. I have my hands full trying to keep him balanced. Even if it was possible, I wouldn't risk raising a child near him. It would be too selfish and irresponsible. Besides, we share the same passion for science, and our work together is very rewarding."

"You understand all sides of him: the scientist, the monster, and the man. He's truly lucky to have you."

Totally embarrassed, Betty shook her head, "It's a complex relationship, I know, but Bruce is worth it."

"Complex is an understatement," Pepper chuckled, "Let's say it's part of our job description. Avengers wives, right?"

The two friends laughed for a while, before Betty questioned, "And how about you?"

"Children, me? I don't think so. My life is too crazy already. The company is very demanding. And Tony gives me a lot of trouble by himself. I don't have time for motherhood. Besides, I'll be 40 this year."

"Well, you have all the excuses, but the question is, don't you want one?"

"No… I… I don't know," Pepper hesitated, "Of course I'm in love with Francis, and I can't wait to carry James in my arms. But, I'm tired of doing everything alone, you know?"

"You don't need to."

"Seriously, can you see Tony as a parent?"

"Okay. No. I'll give you that. In many ways, they're all the same – big boys with super-powers. That's why it's difficult to imagine them as father figures," Betty sighed, "Well, except from Cap."

"Ah, Steve doesn't count. He was raised in another time. I guess that makes all the difference. He'll be a great dad."

"Definitely. Natasha is lucky."

"I think that they both are," Pepper pondered, with honesty and pride, "Nat is the one who keep the boys in line, isn't she?"

"That's true. And it's funny how they respect and fear the Black Widow, since she's so tiny and not super as they are."

"They're both great at parenting already. Taking care of the Avengers."

Betty agreed, "They really are a team. I mean the two of them."

"Exactly. They'll be great with their own baby."

"But Clint's doing fine, don't you think?"

"To be honest, he was a pleasant surprise," Pepper replied, "But that's because Bobbi keeps him in line."

"She's more than right. To raise a child is a huge responsibility, and people take it for granted. But not wanting to pry too much, if Clint can do it… Why not Tony?"

"Oh, you're a dear friend," Pepper continued, looking very distraught, "We talked about having a family; he said he wanted to try, and I know he'll do anything for me. But Tony thinks that he can solve everything with money or science. He's not ready, and he's turning 45. I don't think he'll ever be."

"Are you okay with that?"

"I don't think I have a choice. But my therapist says that I'm not giving him the chance of growing up."

"You know I can relate to that. Don't get me wrong, but let's face it. Bruce suffers from the worst cases of split personalities. It's like a disease, right? And there's no cure for the Hulk. I know it, but I've chosen to be with him."

"So we're both stuck being super-babysitters."

"Well, that's one way to see it," Betty chuckled, "But, look, it doesn't matter if you want children or not. I think you're underestimating Tony."

"As you said before, complex relationships."

"I think one of you wears iron armor, and the other plays superhero to the whole world, but the one person he truly loves."

Pepper, shook her head, "So you also think I should ask for his help."

"Exactly. You are always taking care of him, and you do everything else by yourself," the brunette spoke softly, "Why don't let him be your hero?"

"Ha! That's a good one," The blonde opened a sweet smile, "I'll think about that!"

After helping their women, the boys had engaged into another very important task – entertaining the new father. Drinking beer, and watching sports on TV, they were having a typical male bonding time, while listening to his complaints about his new life.

"Take my advice, don't get married," Clint said, very annoyed.

Cheering his already married friends, Bruce replied, "Too late for that, buddy."

"Okay, but don't even think to have kids," the archer added promptly.

Shaking his head, Steve teased, "Don't let Natasha hear you say that."

"How long?" Tony questioned the soldier.

Steve sighed, quite wishful, "A whole month…"

"You'd better enjoy your life now, old man," Clint puffed sarcastically, "In one month you will be as well as dead!"

Not missing the chance, Tony joked, "Don't be such a baby, Legolas."

The archer whined instantly, "That's the thing! I'm not the baby. I'm nothing!"

"Someone is needy," Bruce mocked and Tony laughed in agreement.

Frowning, Steve reprimanded, "What's wrong with you? Stop whining."

"Let's see how long can you survive without sleep!" Clint said as a challenge.

"Seriously? Stakeout?" the soldier replied in disbelief.

The archer shouted, "It's different!"

Bruce provoked, "Yeah, because here there are no bad guys after you."

Finally hitting the main point, Clint told them about what's the big problem, "Nobody's after me, I'm invisible!"

Rolling his eyes, Tony replied quickly, "Ah! That's what this is all about. A dry spell!"

The boys were still laughing at Clint, when the girls entered the room.

Almost immediately, Steve stood up and walked towards Natasha, helping her sit down on the couch. The loving couple held each other, watching their friends interact.

Looking absolutely radiant, Bobbi was wearing a gorgeous dress, cut to flatter her woman's curves. In her arms, Francis was quiet, but started to giggle as soon as his daddy picked him up.

All troubles were left forgotten and Clint kissed his wife, "Bird! You look amazing!"

Narrowing her stunning eyes, she was as sharp as ever, "Well, I guess it's official, sugar. You're the baby Avenger."

Among laughs and more jokes, the group enjoyed a delicious lunch, and cheered Bobbi, "Happy Mother's Day!"

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Author's note: I'm late for Mother's Day, but I had to write a few thoughts about motherhood. Being a mother myself, I do believe that being a parent is not for everyone. And no one should be criticized or diminished by not wanting or not being able to have children. Besides, each one of us has our right time, which shouldn't be pushed. To have a child is a very important decision that needs to be taken seriously. And everyone should be wanted and loved by their parents, right?

One of the fun things of having a heterogeneous group like the Avengers is to explore their different personalities and relationship dynamics. Although I liked Clint's new family in Age of Ultron (one of the few things I didn't hate in that movie), in the Chris Crush Universe I'm following the comics, with Bobbi and Francis. Also, I will never ignore Betty Ross' importance in Bruce's life, so this is my homage to the great woman she is. Natasha's fertility issues were already addressed in 'Can we hear it again? (Chris Crush sequel)'.

Hope you enjoyed! Love you all, please tell me what you think!

xoxo Mari

Ref: Movies: The Incredible Hulk (2008) – Bruce & Betty's background, Leonard Samson.

Ref: Comics: Avengers World Vol 1 #10 (2014) – James Rogers: Son of Black Widow and Captain America. Francis Barton: Son of Mockingbird and Hawkeye.

Hawkeye Vol 1 #4 (1983) "Till Death Do Us Part…" & Captain America Vol 1 #317 (1986) "Death Throws" – Hawkeye & Mockingbird background with Crossfire.

Incredible Hulk Vol 1 #319 (1986) "Member of the Wedding" – Bruce & Betty's wedding.