Natasha woke up lazily to the familiar, comforting aroma of coffee wafting from the kitchen. It had been a week since her last mission, and her wounds were finally healed. She chuckled softly, thinking about the endearing mother hen who had worried over her incessantly, checking her injuries every day and tending to her every need.
Harry had been relentless in his care, making sure she rested and healed properly. Though Natasha had never thought she needed such kindness and hospitality in her life, she appreciated it nonetheless. She had always prided herself on her independence and strength, but Harry's unwavering support had shown her a different kind of strength – one that came from allowing herself to be vulnerable and cared for.
Swinging her legs over the side of the bed, Natasha stretched and winced slightly, a residual ache reminding her of the ordeal she had been through. Yet, the pain was now a distant echo, overshadowed by the warmth and security she felt in Harry's home.
During the past week, Harry had been a constant pillar of support. Every morning without fail, he would rise early to prepare breakfast, meticulously clean and dress her wounds with fresh bandages, and then head out for his classes. Left alone in the apartment for much of the day, Natasha would spend the time tracking the fallout from her recent mission. Today, as she sipped her coffee at the kitchen table, Natasha scanned the headlines on her tablet, analyzing every detail for any hint of the manhunt she had set in motion. Harry's apartment had become her sanctuary, a temporary haven where she could strategize, plan, and, for once, rely on someone else's kindness without reservations.
She had chosen to stay with Harry for a reason: she needed time to ensure her enemies believed she was dead so she could flush out the traitor who had betrayed her. An ex-military civilian with no connections to her past life, Harry's place offered the perfect refuge. To further conceal her identity, she had chopped her long locks into a short blonde bob and adopted a convincing American accent whenever she ventured outside.
By 3 PM, Harry would return from his classes, marking the start of their shared afternoons. They'd often pass the time with board games like chess, checkers, Jenga, or cards, engaging in easy banter and enjoying each other's company. Natasha appreciated Harry's tactful approach—he never pried into her past or the circumstances of her recent injuries. Instead, their conversations flowed effortlessly from books, movies, and music to their culinary preferences, travel experiences, and even discussions on capital investments, given Harry's studies in the field. She sensed his curiosity about her origins growing with each passing day, yet he respectfully refrained from pressing for details. Whether it stemmed from his military background, an innate sense of discretion, or simply a deep respect for her privacy, Natasha valued the space Harry gave her.
In the evenings, they would venture out into London together. Natasha secretly savoured these outings, viewing them as dates, although she never voiced this sentiment aloud. After a lifetime of treating each date as a calculated operation, these excursions allowed her to experience a semblance of normalcy, and to relish being a regular person rather than a covert operative. Together, they explored iconic locations like Oxford Street, Soho's vibrant nightlife, the historic Leadenhall Market, the bustling Chinatown, and the picturesque South Bank. Hand in hand, they strolled through the city, sharing excited whispers about the sights and attractions they encountered. They'd choose cosy restaurants for dinner and sometimes indulge in a few drinks, savouring the freedom to enjoy simple pleasures without the shadows of their respective pasts looming overhead.
His unwavering care and understanding had eased her burden in ways she hadn't expected. Natasha knew she couldn't stay hidden forever, but for now, in Harry's protective embrace, she felt a rare sense of peace amidst the storm of deception and danger swirling around her. Natasha knew this idyllic interlude was temporary, but she cherished every moment, storing away these memories of normalcy like precious treasures. In Harry's company, she found solace and a rare sense of peace amid the turbulence of her covert existence. Each day spent with him reaffirmed her belief that life could offer more than missions and survival—that it could also encompass joy, companionship, and the simple pleasure of exploring the world hand in hand with someone who understood her without needing to know every detail of her past.
After getting ready, Natasha, now going by 'Natalie,' made her way to the kitchen for breakfast. "I don't think you need to dress my wounds anymore. They're healed, and surprisingly, there's no scarring either," she remarked as she settled into her seat, where Harry was already serving up a plate of French toast alongside a steaming cup of coffee.
"Glad to hear it," Harry replied with a warm smile. He felt a sense of satisfaction knowing that his combined knowledge of magic and muggle medicine had helped Natalie recover without leaving any visible scars.
"So, what time are you heading to class today?" Natalie inquired.
"Today's the weekend, so no classes. I guess you're stuck with me for the whole day," Harry quipped playfully, his eyes twinkling mischievously.
"Poor me, may God have mercy on me," Natalie teased back, matching his playful tone. "So, what are we doing today then?"
"I was thinking we could go to Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. I heard a few of my younger classmates raving about how fun it is," Harry suggested.
"Was it your friends, or was it your own childishness talking?" Natalie teased lightly, her eyes soft with affection as she observed Harry's childlike wonder and enthusiasm for simple joys. She had come to recognize that his innocence and joy were likely shaped by a childhood marked by orphanhood and later military service. Despite the challenges he had faced, Harry's ability to find delight in everyday experiences was infectious, and Natalie found herself cherishing their outings just as much as he did.
"Guilty as charged," Harry admitted with a grin, his eyes sparkling with amusement. He appreciated Natalie's teasing, knowing she understood him better than most. "By the way, how long do you plan on staying here?"
The question hung in the air, and for a moment, Natalie felt a twinge of uncertainty. She had grown accustomed to Harry's company and didn't want to part with it so soon. She gazed at Harry, considering his question carefully.
"I thought I'd stay for a bit. Why?" Natalie finally replied, her tone gentle but guarded.
"It's just that Christmas break starts next week, and I was planning to travel during that time," Harry explained, his voice tinged with a hint of hopefulness.
Natalie's heart softened at his words. She was a guest and she didn't want to trouble him more than she needed to.
"That's fine. You don't need to worry about me. I'm a big girl and can take care of myself," Natalie assured him, her gaze softening with gratitude. "You don't need to change your plans just because I'm here."
"No, no, that's not what I meant," Harry quickly interjected, sensing her hesitation. His eyes met hers, earnest and sincere. "What I meant was, would you like to travel with me so we can spend Christmas and New Year's together?"
Natalie was taken aback by his unexpected offer, and for a moment, she was at a loss for words. She searched his face, seeing the genuine invitation in his eyes, the desire to share the holiday season with her. Her heart fluttered with a mix of emotions—surprise, gratitude, and a flicker of longing for a simple joy she hadn't allowed herself in a long time.
"If we're going to travel, we need to go shopping. I'll need to buy everything," Natalie replied, her voice soft but filled with newfound excitement. Already, her mind raced with possibilities—the places they could visit, the moments they could share.
Natalie had a blast dragging Harry all over the mall for shopping. She hadn't intended to buy much, initially planning to pick up a few essentials. But Harry's infectious enthusiasm and his genuine interest in helping her find everything she needed turned a simple shopping trip into an unexpectedly joyful spree. By the end of it all, they had enough shopping bags to fill Harry's Range Rover's boot and the back seats, a testament to their fruitful expedition through the stores.
As they navigated the crowded mall, Natalie couldn't help but notice how Harry effortlessly carried bags, offered opinions on outfits, and even got a few quirky gifts for his friends and family. His eagerness to make the day special for her warmed her heart, reminding her of the simple pleasures of companionship and shared experiences.
The sun had already set by the time they emerged from the mall, their laughter echoing through the parking lot as they loaded the bags into Harry's car.
"We might need to make two trips next time," Harry joked as he closed the car door, surveying the packed seats and trunk.
Natalie chuckled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Maybe we should invest in a bigger car," she teased back, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Once everything was safely stowed away, they set off for Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, the anticipation of festive lights and seasonal delights adding to their excitement. The drive was filled with shared stories and snippets of plans for the evening, their voices blending with the cheerful hum of holiday music on the radio.
Once they arrived at Winter Wonderland, the festive atmosphere enveloped them in a swirl of lights, laughter, and the tantalizing aroma of holiday treats. The crowded pathways were lined with cheerful stalls and colourful decorations, creating a magical backdrop for their unfolding evening.
"I know this is a bit weird and I should have asked earlier, but I want to ask you out on a date properly," Harry's voice cut through the bustling sounds around them, his sincerity mingling with a touch of nerves.
Natalie understood what he was trying to do. She had to give him props for his ingenuity. Silently communicating that he wanted to take their relationship to another level. She owed a lot to Harry, and being a bit honest was the least she could do.
"Natasha Alianovna Romanoff," she responded softly, her full name rolling off her tongue with a sense of familiarity she hadn't felt in a long time. It was a name that carried weight, one that showed her willing to let her walls down a little bit.
Harry's face lit up with a bright smile, genuine and heartfelt. Natalie noticed how his eyes sparkled with a mix of hope and affection, and it stirred something within her—a warmth that slowly thawed the icy walls she had built around herself.
Then, in a move that caught her by surprise, Harry knelt down on one knee, conjuring a small rose with a flick of his wrist. "Miss Romanoff, may I have the honour of accompanying you on a date tonight?" he asked with a playful flourish, presenting her with the rose.
Natalie's smile widened as she reached out her hand to Harry, silently accepting his invitation. With a joyful chuckle, Harry pulled her close, his arm wrapping around her waist as they strolled deeper into the Winter Wonderland.
"Two things," Natalie whispered as they walked, her voice barely audible over the festive music. "Please always call me Natalie until I tell you otherwise." It was a simple request, a sign of trust in Harry's willingness to understand and respect her boundaries.
Harry nodded solemnly, his expression filled with understanding. "Of course, Natalie," he affirmed softly, his gaze steady and reassuring.
"And the second?" he prompted gently, curious yet patient.
Natalie leaned closer, her voice teasingly low. "Where did you get the rose? I never saw you buy one."
"Magic," Harry replied with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, earning a playful huff from Natalie. His ability to lighten the moment with humour and mystery was something she found endearing.
The two of them had a magical time at Winter Wonderland. They dove headfirst into friendly competitions at the carnival games, where Natalie surprised everyone by skillfully tossing rings onto bottles until she won a life-size panda. Harry couldn't help but laugh as Natalie proudly carried her oversized prize through the bustling crowds.
They ventured onto the rides together, screaming with exhilaration as they spun through the air and raced down steep drops. With each ride, their laughter echoed through the festive air, mixing with the twinkling lights and joyful music of the winter carnival.
Exploring the array of street foods, they indulged in everything from piping hot churros dusted with cinnamon sugar to savoury crepes filled with melted cheese and ham. Each bite was a delight, warming them from the inside out as they strolled hand in hand, savouring the flavours and the moments together. As the night wore on and the lights of Winter Wonderland shimmered around them, Harry realized how much he cherished these simple yet profound moments with Natalie. It wasn't just about the carnival or the games; it was about the connection they were building, the easy comfort of being themselves with each other.
On Christmas Eve, they headed to Hereford to celebrate with Harry's unofficial adoptive parents, the Richards. During the car ride, Harry, brimming with excitement, explained to Natalie how the Richards had taken him in when he had nowhere else to go. His eyes sparkled with gratitude as he recounted stories of their kindness and support, painting a vivid picture of the warmth he had found with them.
Natalie could feel Harry's infectious Christmas spirit, but she was also a bit nervous, feeling like she was about to meet her boyfriend's parents for the first time. As they drove through the picturesque countryside, Natalie found herself relaxing, the tension easing from her shoulders. She reached out and took Harry's hand, intertwining her fingers with his, silently thanking him for bringing her into this part of his life.
When they finally arrived at the Rustic Hearth, the warmth and festivity of the season embraced them. The pub was adorned with half-finished festive decorations, and the scent of pine and cinnamon wafted through the air. Harry squeezed her hand reassuringly before they stepped inside, ready to create new memories together.
The Rustic Hearth was relatively quiet compared to his regular hustle and bustle when they entered, the cosy pub exuding a warmth that contrasted sharply with the cold winter air outside. As they stepped through the front entrance, Harry and Natalie noticed a few occupied tables where customers were enjoying their drinks. The Richards were nowhere in sight.
"Charles, Dorea, are you here?" Harry called out, his voice echoing softly as he headed toward the kitchen.
"Harry, is that you?" came a motherly voice from the back. With a burst of commotion, an elderly lady around sixty, wearing a smudged apron, rushed out, her face lighting up with joy.
"Hey Dorea," Harry greeted her with open arms, inviting the old lady for a hug. She accepted warmly, enveloping him in an embrace filled with all the love and affection of a mother reunited with her child.
"Harry, my boy, welcome home," said another voice as a man entered the pub from the back entrance. He too pulled Harry into a tight hug. Natalie stood nearby, feeling a bit awkward and slightly guilty for intruding on such a personal moment.
"Thanks, Charles. I'm home, and I want you to meet someone," Harry said, pulling Natalie gently forward.
"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Richards, my name is Natalie," she greeted them with a nervous smile.
Dorea's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "And how are you related to our Harry?" she asked, her smile widening.
Natalie took a deep breath. "I am his girlfriend," she said, glancing at Harry, whose eyes widened in surprise. The elderly couple exchanged a knowing look.
"Girlfriend, eh?" Charles said with a chuckle. "And how long have you two been together?"
Natalie smiled, knowing that Harry must be very confused right now. "We met at the Commemoration Dinner after he returned from Afghanistan," she said, her voice gaining a humorous tone. "I remember it so vividly. The room was filled with so many people, but the moment I saw Harry, it was like everything else faded into the background. He had this quiet strength about him, this presence that was impossible to ignore."
She glanced at Harry, a soft smile playing on her lips. "I was so impressed with him from the start. He wasn't just a soldier; he was someone who had faced so much and come out the other side with this incredible sense of humility and grace. I didn't want to let him go. So, I took the initiative."
Natalie chuckled, the memory of their first meeting bringing a sparkle to her eyes. "I walked up to him and struck up a conversation. We talked for hours that night—about everything and nothing at all. It felt so natural, so easy like we had known each other forever. By the end of the evening, I knew I wanted to see him again. So, I asked him out, and to my relief, he said yes."
Dorea huffed playfully, swatting Harry on his upper arm. "And why have you been keeping such a lovely lady all to yourself for so long? You didn't even mention her."
"Mrs Richards, please don't blame Harry. I asked him to keep our relationship a secret. He wanted to tell you from the beginning, but I was nervous. I mean, Harry has already achieved so much while I'm just me. I wasn't confident that I could be with him for so long, so I asked him not to say anything."
Dorea's eyes softened, her smile gentle and reassuring. "Well, dear, he better love you for who you are and not force you to be someone else. Otherwise, just give me a call, and I'll set him straight," she said, taking Natalie's hand in a gesture of solidarity.
"Hey," Harry protested, laughing. "I like her for who she is. You know how I am." His weak protest prompted a round of chuckles.
"How long will you be staying, Harry?" Charles asked.
"We have to attend the annual New Year's Eve Ball at my old barracks. We'll leave two days after that."
"Well then, why don't you two head home and freshen up? We're about to close the pub for today anyway. Then we can all show Natalie around," Charles suggested.
After freshening up, Natalie joined Harry and the Richards in the living room. They spent the evening chatting, laughing, and sharing stories. Natalie felt her initial nervousness melt away, replaced by a sense of belonging. It was a Christmas Eve unlike any she had experienced in a long time—filled with warmth, laughter, and the promise of new beginnings. As she looked around at the smiling faces, she realized she was no longer just an intruder in this happy family moment. She was becoming a part of it, and for the first time in a long while, she allowed herself to believe that she deserved this happiness.
Christmas with the Richards was a heartwarming and joyous experience for both Harry and Natalie. After a late evening out in Hereford, Natalie woke up late the next morning to find Harry snuggling her, his warmth and presence a comforting start to the day. She cherished these intimate moments with him, appreciating the unique connection they shared—one built on mutual desire.
The Richards had a beloved tradition of hosting Christmas dinner at their pub for the older folks in the community who had no family visiting. From noon onward, the four of them were immersed in the festive preparations. Dorea and Harry took charge of the cooking, their teamwork in the kitchen producing mouthwatering aromas that filled the pub. Charles and Natalie assisted wherever needed, their efforts adding to the cheerful atmosphere as they decorated the pub with twinkling lights and festive ornaments.
As the day progressed, the pub transformed into a cosy haven of holiday cheer. Harry, ever the charming host, moved seamlessly between tasks, his infectious excitement lifting everyone's spirits. Natalie found herself drawn into the warmth of the Richards family dynamic. They treated Harry with the affectionate indulgence of doting parents and extended the same warmth to Natalie, which left her a bit flustered. Unaccustomed to such open displays of familial love, she was touched by their genuine kindness.
Throughout the day, Natalie marvelled at the Richards' ability to create a sense of belonging for everyone who walked through their doors. The elderly guests arrived, their faces lighting up at the sight of the festive decorations and the promise of a hearty meal. Laughter and conversation filled the air as the Richards made sure each guest felt special and cared for.
As the evening drew to a close, Natalie sat by the fireplace, reflecting on the day's events.
"So, what do you think?" Harry asked as joined Natalie on the cosy couch in front of the fireplace.
"Is this something they do every year?" Natalie asked, her eyes wandering across the cosy pub adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
"Yes, it's a tradition for the older folks," Harry replied softly, his arm draped around her shoulder as they observed the heartwarming scene. "It can get lonely for them without family around. But here, everyone gathers to share in the Christmas spirit."
Natalie nodded thoughtfully, a genuine warmth spreading through her. "Thank you," she said warmly, turning to Harry and planting a gentle peck on his cheek.
Harry grinned, pleasantly surprised by her gesture. "So, what's Christmas like with your family?" he inquired, noticing a hint of nostalgia in her eyes.
Natalie's gaze softened as memories flooded her mind. Sensing her melancholy, Harry pulled her closer, silently offering his support.
"I don't remember much about my birth parents," Natalie began, her voice tinged with a mix of nostalgia and sadness. "The orphanage where I grew up was cold, almost lifeless. But when I turned eight, everything changed. I was adopted by a wonderful Russian couple along with another girl named Yelena. Those years were the best of my childhood."
She paused, a small smile playing on her lips as she recalled the bittersweet memories. "Mom was determined to cook a meal, even though her attempts usually ended in a hilarious mess. Dad, on the other hand, fancied himself a culinary expert but managed to create even bigger disasters in the kitchen," Natalie chuckled softly, her eyes distant yet warm with the reminiscence. "We didn't have much money, so the presents under the tree were often just empty boxes for decorations but I didn't care. I still wanted to open every single one."
Harry listened intently, sensing the weight of Natalie's words and the glimpse into her past. "What happened to them?" he asked gently, aware of the delicate nature of her story.
Natalie sighed, her gaze flickering with a hint of sorrow. "Things changed," she replied quietly. "I was too young to understand all the reasons. Eventually, the people from the orphanage came to take me back, and that's where I stayed until I was old enough to be on my own."
"Until my eleventh birthday, I detested Christmas as well," Harry confided, feeling a pang of vulnerability as he opened up about his past. "My parents passed away when I was just a year old. I usually tell people I grew up in an orphanage, but that's not entirely true. After my parents' death, one of their mentors entrusted me to my mother's sister, who treated me more like a burden than family. It wasn't a loving home; it was more like being treated as a slave until I turned eleven."
He paused, the memories still vivid in his mind. "On Christmas Day, the entire family would gather for a lavish feast, and my cousin would receive an abundance of gifts—so many that they had to stash them in a spare room. Meanwhile, I spent those days locked away in a dark cupboard, isolated from the festivities. If I was lucky, I might sneak out and scavenge a few meagre scraps from the leftovers."
"Did it get better?" Natalie asked softly, their voices mingling in the quiet lull as the pub slowly emptied around them.
Harry nodded, his gaze drifting back to memories veiled in nostalgia. "Yes, it did. When I turned eleven, I received an invitation to a prestigious boarding school in Scotland that my parents had attended. It became my home, especially during Christmas breaks. My friends there became my family, and they made every Christmas memorable."
Natalie listened intently, a small smile touching her lips. "It sounds like they were more than just friends."
Harry chuckled warmly. "They were like siblings, really. We bonded over shared experiences, late-night conversations, and the mischief only boarding school students could concoct. They made my younger years feel less lonely."
"That must have been nice," Natalie mused, her eyes reflecting a hint of longing for the kind of companionship Harry described.
"It was," Harry affirmed, his voice tinged with gratitude. "I still miss those days sometimes."
"Do you miss them?" Natalie asked gently, There were photos of his army comrades, university friends, and the Richards in his apartment but none of his friends from his boarding school days.
Harry nodded slowly, a wistful smile touching his lips. "Yes, I do. A lot, actually. But circumstances..." His voice trailed off, hinting at unspoken complexities that kept him from reaching out to them.
Natalie nodded in understanding, sensing his reluctance to delve deeper into his past. "I understand. It's hard when you can't reconnect with those who meant so much."
"And what about you? Do you miss your adopted family?" Harry asked Nat
She met his gaze earnestly. "Yes, I do. There are days when I can't help but wonder what my life would be like if I had stayed with them."
"I imagine it's hard," Harry replied softly, empathy colouring his tone. "Family leaves an indelible mark, even if the time spent together was brief. I don't have an answer for what might have been if you had stayed with them, but maybe I can offer you something else," he suggested gently.
Curious, Natalie leaned in slightly. "Hmm?"
"If you're ever in the area during Christmas break, why don't you come stay here?" Harry's voice held a hopeful note. "Dorea and Charles would love to have you, and I..." He hesitated briefly, his expression earnest. "I'd never say no to your company."
Natalie considered his invitation, a warmth spreading through her chest. "I'll think about it," she replied softly, though her heart was already leaning toward accepting. The idea of celebrating Christmas in a warm, welcoming home stirred a longing she hadn't realized was there.
The cosy warmth of the fireplace bathed them in a gentle glow, the crackling wood providing a soothing soundtrack to their quiet conversation. Natalie nestled closer to Harry, feeling a sense of peace she hadn't known in years. The pub had grown quiet, the guests having left, but the spirit of togetherness lingered in the air. Harry and Natalie felt it most keenly, a sense of belonging that was new for the both of them but neither were willing to voice it out. As the night deepened, they remained by the fire, holding each other close. Slowly they drifted off to sleep, dreaming of a future that might be possible if they could stay together. The world outside might be cold and uncertain, but in that moment, they had found warmth and certainty in each other's arms. A time when two broken souls found healing and hope in the most unexpected of places.
Authors Note:
Hey guys, I hope all of you are enjoying the story as much as I have loved writing it. Please leave your reviews on what you think of the story till now.