Not a single moment spent with Wanda left you feeling anything less than special; you soaked up every second. A squeeze on your arm whenever she was pleased or a gentle caress as she passed you in the kitchen sent a flutter through your stomach and set your heart racing. Her attention felt as essential as air, and as you stole glances at her, you couldn't help but wish, no, you yearned to know how it would feel to kiss her. The new, and if not slightly wrong, feelings swirling around Natasha and Wanda often made you feel guilty. However, the more you indulged yourself in their presence, the more reckless you became. You recognized that you were walking down a fine line that might lead to trouble. Yet, you couldn't stop yourself; it just felt too good to experience everything you did when being around them.
The creak of the front door caught your attention just as Wanda placed the steak in the oven. Your heart skipped a beat, hoping it was Natasha, and when she entered the kitchen in high-waisted dress pants, a tucked-in dark green satin shirt, and a stylish black jacket, you couldn't help but stare at here. She looked stunning as she sauntered into the room; you had always admired how she could command attention simply by being present. You couldn't help but stutter out a feeble attempt at a greeting as her eyes locked onto you.
"Hey there, little duckling," She greeted with a grin as she pulled you to her side, your heart fluttered as she leaned down kissing the crown of your head. A silly thought flittered through your mind of how you would dare leaning back meeting her lips in a kiss. You couldn't help but stiffen at the thought as you stole a quick glance at Wanda, scared she could read your mind. However, her soft expression as she observed the two of you made you relax against Natasha's arm.
Natasha soon released you and moved over to greet Wanda, you watched her as she swooped in and gathered Wanda in her arms leaning in and planting a soft kiss. You felt bad for watching them with both admiration and envy, captivated by their soft lips and how they looked at each other. It all looked so natural as Wanda cupped Natasha's jaw and guided her back for another kiss, and you greedily soaked up the view of Wanda's long fingers as they glided over Natasha's skin.
"Mmm, what a greeting. Can't say I complain," Wanda chuckled softly before giving Natasha another peck. "How was work, my love?" she asked, leaving Natasha's embrace to lean down and check on the steak.
Natasha's hand found its place on Wanda's lower back. "Busy," she sighed, shooting you a quick smile before turning back to Wanda, who was now leaning against the counter. "Jane just turned in her 2 weeks' notice; apparently, she decided to follow her boyfriend to Seattle." She frowned before grabbing a glass and reaching for the wine bottle on the counter.
"That will cause some issues," Wanda sighed, and Natasha grunted while sipping her wine. "Aren't you having that big exhibit at the beginning of next year?" Wanda questioned as she passed you on her way to the fridge. Your heart soared as she caressed your cheeks with her knuckles gently before opening it to take out a soda.
"Yes, she is really putting me in an awful position. But I can't blame her for wanting to go there. They have been together for two years now, and I know she wants to settle down and have a family," Natasha shrugged, but the frown still marred her face.
"What will you do about the exhibit?" Wanda asked as she sat down by the kitchen island, sipping on her drink and motioning for you to sit down next to her.
You took a seat, and Wanda placed a glass in front of you, filling it carefully before sliding it closer, all while keeping her eyes on Natasha.
"I might contact Agatha, see if she has some art students to spare. There are always eager students looking for some extra cash, and it's a good place for them to network," Natasha explained, leaning heavily on the counter, looking exhausted.
Wanda's hand traveled over your back as she hummed at Natasha's words, and you shivered as she dragged her knuckles gently along your back.
"That's not a bad idea, actually," Wanda agreed before turning her head towards you. "Wasn't your roommate an art student?" she inquired softly, and you nodded, remembering Kate's starstruck gaze when she met Natasha.
"Not a bad idea. I did promise her some of my time, so this might be a good opportunity," Natasha replied, taking another sip of her wine and appearing lost in thought.
Without realizing it, you had leaned closer to Wanda, almost slipping off the chair. Straightening yourself, you couldn't help a small twinge of jealousy at the thought of Kate getting to spend time alone with Natasha. You knew your reaction was uncalled for, understanding that you didn't own Natasha's attention. However, you couldn't shake the desire for her to exclusively focus on you.
"Perhaps you would be willing to help too, little one?" Wanda asked softly, using her hand to place some of your hair behind your ear and looking at you with an indulgent smile.
"Yes, I would love to help. Whatever you need," you replied quickly, wanting nothing more than feel needed by Natasha or Wanda.
Wanda's indulgent smile only widened as she gently ran her fingers through your hair. "That's wonderful, darling. We appreciate your willingness to help, and I'm sure Natasha will be grateful too."
Natasha looked up from her phone, her eyes softening as she caught the exchange between you and Wanda. "My kind and sweet little duckling, your help will be much needed."
You nodded bashfully, a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling inside. While the prospect of helping with the exhibit thrilled you, a part of you couldn't shake the jealousy that lingered from the thought of Kate spending time with Natasha. You silently scolded yourself for such petty and childish thoughts, reminding yourself that Natasha was not exclusive to you, and you needed to share her time and attention.
Natasha excused herself, heading upstairs most likely to change clothes and wash off the day's work. In the meantime, you and Wanda asked you to set the table with a small wink while she checked on the steak. When everything was done you couldn't help but find yourself hovering behind her, secretly hoping she needed your help with something else.
"It will be around an hour more or less before it's ready," Wanda said lightly before standing up. "So let's see what's on TV, hmm?" She continued, turning around and tilting her head.
"Yeah, sure, sounds great," you beamed, and she chuckled lightly, motioning for you to follow her, which you gladly did.
Sitting down, she went to get the remote and pleasantly surprised you by bringing a blanket, spending some time arranging it around you. Leaning against the arm of the couch, she stretched out her long legs before turning the TV on. As she flickered through the channels, you watched her relax into the pillows, looking so cozy. You couldn't help but wish to lay down next to her and curl into her warmth rather than sitting on the other side of the couch.
Her eyes flickered over to you, and you quickly averted your gaze to the TV, trying to focus on what was on, but you could almost feel her eyes boring into the side of your face.
"Are you cold, my dear?" she asked kindly, but your shiver had nothing to do with the cold and everything to do with feeling her pretty eyes on you.
"Yeah, a bit," you lied, and to be fair you would never in your wildest dreams admit the real reason.
"Come here, little duckling," she beckoned, and you only hesitated for a second before scooting closer to her and she pulled you down in front of her. "Let's make sure you stay warm and comfortable," she hummed, and you couldn't help but dare leaning back closer to her.
She didn't seem to mind as she molded her front against your back, keeping her arm resting on your hips and her hand on your stomach. You melted to a puddle of want, and again you wondered if Wanda are able to read your mind.
You could hear Natasha coming down the stairs and as expected she came walking around the couch with a glass of wine. "Are you cozy, little duckling?" She chuckled lightly as she sat down by your feet and patted your leg.
"Yes." You murmured and burrowed your face down in the pillow squirming from both Natasha's attention and the feel of Wanda's warm breath fanning over your neck as she squeezed you tightly.
"The sweetest little snuggle bug." Wanda murmured as she removed her hand from your stomach to run it through your hair.
You could hear Natasha set her glass on the table before the couched moved and you squeaked and Wanda laughed as Natasha crawled over you both pushing you further in to Wanda as she made space at your front.
"Nat, for heavens sake." Wanda laughed as she pulled you even closer to make sure Natasha wouldn't fall off the couch, sandwiching you between them.
"What?" Natasha grinned and looked down at you before flickering her eyes at Wanda sending her a wink. "You're stealing my duckling." She continued with a fake pout only spurring on Wanda's laughter.
"Yours?" Wanda tutted before continuing. "More ours if anything, wouldn't you say."
"Fine, our duckling." Natasha huffed as she caressed your face, from temple down to your jaw tilting your head back. "Hey there." She husked with a smile before bopping your nose.
You managed to only stutter a reply which made Natasha smile wider.
"Did you have a good day with Wanda today?" She asked quietly when the laughter and banter had quiet down.
You nodded and offered a small smile as you leaned your forehead against her shoulder earning a chuckle.
"So, what did you two do today?" Natasha pushed, her eyes curious.
"Oh, you know," Wanda chimed in, saving you from having to answer. "We had a productive day in the studio. Our little duckling here proved to be an excellent assistant, helping me with the clay and sharing some creative ideas. I'm genuinely impressed."
Natasha's eyes gleamed with pride as she looked at you. "Is that so? You're quite the talented assistant, aren't you?"
You blushed, still too shy to respond directly. Wanda continued, sensing your hesitation, "She's being modest. The paintings she worked on have this incredible vibrancy, and she followed my every command. I couldn't have asked for better help."
Natasha smiled warmly, encouraging you to share more. "Come on, little duckling, why won't you talk to me. What did you enjoy the most today?"
"Well," you started, feeling Natasha's gentle coaxing, "Well, Wanda had this amazing sculpture she's working on, and I helped her with the clay. It's turning out so beautiful, she's so talented." You gushed and Natasha beamed before you continued, "and then we painted together, and Wanda was singing."
Natasha's eyebrows shot up in surprise, and she looked at Wanda. "Really? You were singing?"
Wanda's demeanor shifted subtly, and you could sense her tense behind you. "Yes, just a little. It's been a while, and I thought it might be nice."
Natasha's gaze softened, and she seemed to pick up on something. "My love," she said gently, "it's okay. You don't have to explain."
But you couldn't help but feel a pang of worry. Wanda had mentioned performing on stage before, and you knew it was a sensitive topic. Natasha's surprise seemed to be about something else, though.
Natasha looked at Wanda with those soft, sad eyes, and Wanda was stiff against your back, and you couldn't help being scared that Wanda would be angry with you for bringing it up.
The dinner was good, but tension emanated from Wanda in waves. You couldn't help but wish to throw yourself at her feet, begging for forgiveness for your blunder. Natasha seemed a hundred miles away as she ate, and you longed for the light atmosphere to return, but you didn't know how to fix your mistake.
After dinner, you excused yourself with the lame excuse of having to get up early to study, eager to escape quickly. You didn't know how Wanda did it, but sometimes it felt like she could read minds as she pulled you into an embrace.
"Thank you for today, darling girl," she sighed against the side of your head, and you took the opportunity to breathe her in.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to say anything. You have to believe me," you whispered against her collarbone, feeling Wanda's chest rise and fall with each breath as she held you.
"My sweet girl, you have nothing to apologize for," she said gently, rubbing her thumb down your spine.
"But I do. I shouldn't have said anything about your singing. I didn't think, and it just slipped out," you rushed, trying to pull away from her hold.
"I need you to calm down, Y/N. I'm not upset with you, so please calm down," Wanda insisted, keeping her hands on your arms and meeting your gaze.
"I really should be going," you said stiffly.
"Y/N, look at me." You looked up at her through your lashes, and her frown transformed into a soft smile. "That's my girl. I need you to listen to me now, okay? Can you do that?"
Wanda awaited your response, and you nodded, offering a quiet yes.
"Good, very good, my dear. Now, I need you to understand that you did nothing wrong today, and I'm sorry if Natasha and I made you feel that way. I don't want you to leave thinking you did something wrong and avoiding us," she said, giving you a pointed look. "Yes, we both know what I mean, darling. You tend to run away when you're scared or uncomfortable. I want to make sure you won't avoid coming here because you think I'm upset with you."
"Okay, yeah, of course. But I also want you to know I'm sorry, and I promise I'll be back soon," you rambled.
She chuckled softly, rubbing your arms. "Enough apologizing now, dear. You have nothing to apologize for."
As she helped you with your jacket, you offered her a timid smile and thanks before both of you were interrupted by Natasha.
"Will you spend Christmas with us, or are you going home to celebrate?" Natasha asked briskly as she walked towards you with her attention on her phone.
"I'm heading home to mom and dad, and I'll be back before the New Year," you said with a heavy heart as you turned towards her. You had no desire to go back home, but your dad had called and reminded you of your obligations towards your mother and there was no way you would be able to say no.
"Okay, well don't forget to ask Kate if she would be interested in working for me for awhile, and I would like you to by my gallery before you leave okay?" She fired her instructions without even taking her eyes off her phone making you bristle slightly.
"Fine." You mumbled as you headed out of the door but was stopped by Natasha's firm hold on your arm.
"Hey, what's up with you?" Natasha frowned as she looked you over.
"Nothing, just tired." You answered and adverted your eyes.
"Don't seem like nothing, my little duckling. Considering that you can't even look me in the eye while saying that speaks volumes." She said gently.
"It's nothing, really. I need to go, okay?" You said again, brushing her hand off your arm before casting her a last look. "I'll talk to Kate and let you know if she's interested," you called behind you as you rushed across the street.
Back at the dorm, you threw your backpack in the corner before dropping down headfirst onto the pillow, groaning. Your self-pity was cut short as Kate entered the room, lips locked with whoever his name was. "Gross," was your first thought as you watched them trying to maneuver over to the bed without parting from each other.
You coughed dramatically, trying to make your presence known, and it was clearly enough as Kate pushed whatever his name away and started to sputter apologies.
"Look, I'm so sorry about that," Kate groaned when he left, leaning heavily against the door, looking guilty.
"It's fine, just happy I didn't see more than the eyeful I already got," you laughed awkwardly as you sat up on the bed, leaning against the wall.
"I thought you might be out. I mean, bad excuse, but you've not been here much lately, so I thought, you know, that you would be away tonight," she said, rubbing the back of her neck, looking sheepish. You couldn't blame her; what she said was true.
"It's fine, really, but perhaps we can text next time you bring him over," you offered playfully.
"Or if you bring someone over," she winked, bouncing back quickly from her earlier embarrassment.
"Yeah, no, I'm not interested in dating anymore. I've had enough," you quickly said, averting your eyes.
You could feel her eyes on you, and you had no desire to open up about the whole James incident. It still hurt from time to time, but you were making an effort to not let the incident affect you. Luckily, Kate seemed to notice your tension, or she simply didn't want to get into a discussion about it and left it alone.
"So what have you been up to lately?" Kate asked lightly instead as she moved over to her bed, sitting down.
"A lot of studying and being over at Yelena's place," you answered as you reached for your backpack.
"I haven't seen her in a while. How is she?"
"Well, she barely lives in the townhouse anymore. She'll probably move out soon, but she's good," you shrugged with a smile. You were happy for Yelena, and Dave seemed like a really good guy who treated her well.
Kate hummed and started to change, and you averted your eyes, but you couldn't help getting a glimpse of her toned stomach, making you feel flustered.
"Oh yeah, I almost forgot. Natasha asked me to ask you if you would be interested in helping her with some special exhibit at her gallery after Christmas. Apparently, she's taking in paintings from Europe, and it seems it will be a big event," you said, keeping your eyes trained on your bedspread.
"What? Are you serious?" Kate gasped excitedly, rushing over to your bed and throwing herself next to you.
You couldn't help but laugh as she shook you in excitement while screeching in what must be joy. "Are you serious, like seriously, I get to work for Natasha freaking Romanoff in the Black Widow Gallery?"
You couldn't help but laugh as she shook you in excitement while screeching in what must be joy. "Yes… So am I gonna take your reaction as a yes?" you asked, laughing as she bounced up and down on the bed, holding your hands.
"Are you serious? Of course, it's a yes. Thank you so much, Y/N," she rambled with tears in her eyes and flushed cheeks. Guilt churned in your stomach at the jealousy you felt earlier that evening when Natasha had mentioned Kate. Now, looking into her excited eyes, you knew she deserved this chance. As Kate kept rambling her thanks, you wanted to punch yourself for ever thinking anything bad about Kate—sweet, kind, considerate Kate.
"So it's okay if I send to Natasha that you accept?" you asked when Kate finally calmed down.
"Yes, god yes," Kate panted as she wiped her cheeks from the tears that managed to escape during her outburst.
You took out your phone, sending a message to Natasha, but you could see that she had already sent you one.
Natasha: Are you okay?
You: Kate said yes.
Natasha's response came quickly.
Natasha: Excellent, thank you, my little duckling. Send me Kate's number and email so I can send over the contract.
You smiled, waving it in front of Kate, who bounced up from the bed, making a victory dance, and you covered your mouth as you laughed at her.
You watched as the three dots returned at the bottom before you closed your phone, indicating that Natasha was writing again, making your heart flutter in anticipation. However, you also felt naughty for ignoring Natasha's first question.
Natasha: Don't think for a second I will let it slide that you're ignoring my question.
You couldn't help but squirm as the message came up, knowing she would likely not let it go. So you typed in a quick reply, looking up to make sure Kate wasn't looking.
You: I'm okay.
You wanted to slap your own face at how lame your response came out and glanced over at Kate, who was still making some really embarrassing moves. You focused back on the phone, seeing the three dots returning on the screen.
Natasha: Something was wrong when you left today. I've known you long enough to know when something is wrong. Will you not tell me?
The timing for this conversation couldn't have come at a worse time, and you almost groaned. You loved it when Natasha cared, but you didn't feel comfortable discussing this when Kate was in the room. So you sent a vague response, hoping Natasha would let it go.
You: A lot happened today. I don't know how to process it all.
Natasha: If I did anything to upset you, I would like the chance to fix it.
Of course, Natasha wouldn't let it go, and you knew you couldn't just ignore it.
You: I'm not upset with you, I promise. Everything is okay. I was just tired and wanted to get home.
Natasha : Come by on Saturday. We can go to the gallery and make a day of it.
You stared at the message, feeling excitement bubbling in your stomach. You sent Natasha a quick reply agreeing to meet her on Saturday and Kate's contact information before turning towards Kate with a smile.
In the next couple of days, you found yourself immersed in lab works and papers, preparing for the Christmas break. You had visited Natasha's gallery twice now—once alone with her and once with Kate, who was just as starstruck as she were the first time meeting Natasha. The second visit was the most entertaining as you observed Kate's reactions.
As expected, Natasha's gallery was stunning. Floor-to-ceiling windows and old brick walls created a unique blend of cleanliness and industrial aesthetics. Beautiful paintings adorned the walls, and sculptures were elegantly displayed throughout the space. The gallery spanned three floors, with the first floor being open and stylish. Two steel staircases on each side led up to the second floor, which acted as a balcony overlooking the first floor. Natasha's office, located on the third floor, matched her grand personality. A large desk stood against floor-to-ceiling windows, black bookcases flanking each side. A beautiful seating area occupied one corner, while a door on the other side led to a spacious bathroom and shower. Everything appeared so expensive that you walked around carefully, afraid you might break something, reminiscent of the first time you entered Natasha and Wanda's house.
You wished for more time in Natasha's gallery and more moments in Wanda's studio, but Christmas was approaching rapidly. Since that day, they had been extra sweet. You noticed Natasha hovering near you during the gallery visits, and every time you smiled at her, she seemed to relax. Things had gradually returned to normal, with Natasha accepting your explanation. The subject of Wanda's singing remained untouched, as you chose not to broach it again.
The day before you were set to leave, you and Yelena sat in your dorm, polishing off a pizza together while watching Game of Thrones. If Wanda were to ever ask, you wouldn't dare admit to watching that show, making the experience even more thrilling.
"So at what time will you leave tomorrow?" Yelena asked, stuffing her face with a handful of chips.
"The bus leaves at 6 am," you sighed, leaning your head to the side as you looked at her.
"That's way too early to be up," she groaned in sympathy.
You chuckled and hummed, leaning your head against her shoulder and poking your finger into her side, making her grunt.
"Hey, stop that, you menace, or you won't get any Christmas gifts," she hissed playfully. You looked at her with excitement.
"Oh, gifts, give me, give me," you shot up with a huge grin.
"Ah, so greedy," Yelena chuckled and winked before grabbing her bag, turning it around, and dumping the gifts on the bed.
Your eyes widened as you took in all the presents. "What's all this?" you gasped, your hands hovering over the closest presents, not believing your eyes.
"Your presents," Yelena huffed. "In my opinion, Nat and Wanda have gone a bit overboard. I don't know what their deal is," she continued with a shrug, but her smile was kind as she looked at you, pushing the presents closer.
The presents were all in different sizes and shapes, and your fingers traveled over them as you read the small cards. You could see that both Natasha and Wanda had written the cards, making your heart flutter. Knowing that they had been sitting at home thinking of you, wrapping the gifts, and writing these cards with sweet words wishing you a Merry Christmas. You found Yelena's gifts too, and you wiped your tears as you threw yourself at Yelena, who burst out laughing as you hugged her tightly.
After rambling your thanks against her shoulder, you tried to pull yourself together, giving Yelena some space. "Will you tell Natasha and Wanda thanks and give them these?" You said as you walked over to your wardrobe, turning around with two gifts for them.
"Sure," Yelena replied with a shrug but frowned when she took them, "Hey, what about me?" She huffed, sending you a glare.
You couldn't help but smirk as Yelena couldn't seem to hold the glare, and she burst out laughing when you turned around with her Christmas present wrapped in dragons with Santa hats.
"This is golden," she cackled, pushing you lightly as you sat down next to her, and you grinned as you watched her caress the paper.
"Thanks, Y/N," Yelena smiled, bumping her shoulder with yours.
"Thank you too," you replied softly as you carefully placed the wrapped gifts into your bag to bring home with a heavy heart.
"I wish you could stay here," Yelena said quietly, and you looked over at her with a sad smile.
"Yeah, you and me both," you sighed, closing your bag as you both shuffled around, getting under the blanket.
"But hey, I'll be back before New Year's Eve, so we get to spend it together," you whispered, and Yelena looked from the TV towards you, smiling.
"Yeah, it will be epic," she grinned, and you chuckled as you laid your head down next to hers.
The only thing making you excited about Christmas was the wrapped gifts in your bag rather than seeing your parents again, which made you feel a bit guilty. But you couldn't deny that all you wanted was to spend Christmas in Natasha and Wanda's Townhouse with them and Yelena.