September 7th, 2015
Avengers Compound

The first month of parenthood had been a whirlwind for Natasha and Steve in their apartment at the compound. They had transformed the extra bedroom into a cozy nursery, filled with soft lighting, a carefully chosen crib, and quiet, nature-themed decor. Despite all their planning, the nursery's charm hadn't yet translated to peaceful nights, as their baby, James, seemed to have his own ideas about when to sleep.

Late-night wake-ups became their new norm. Natasha, though used to soldiering through the night, was surprised by the bone-deep exhaustion that came with soothing a wailing infant. Steve took the lead on rocking James to sleep, often pacing the apartment until he found himself nodding off, only to be stirred by James's cries. They'd swap off duties, bleary-eyed and leaning on each other for support, Natasha took the late night feedings and Steve did the diaper changes, growing a new understanding of "teamwork."

Daytime brought its own challenges. Terra had stepped up big time and led the Avengers through their training, and thank God there hadn't been any big mission yet, but Steve still usually did some morning cardio work with the team. An indulgence Natasha allowed him because she got her own downtime to take a bath or shower alone for an hour to relax and Steve watched James then, she would much rather workout, but she had a couple weeks yet till her six week post-delivery follow up and she wouldn't be cleared for anything until then. Their fellow Avengers pitched in when they could; Tony even surprised them with a high-tech baby monitor and "soundproofed" the nursery door after hearing the 3 a.m. meltdowns. Natasha and Steve learned on the fly how to manage James's temperament, dealing with everything from fussiness during bottle-feeding to a persistent preference for being held.

Despite the exhaustion, every smile and coo from James made it worthwhile. Steve marveled at Natasha's tenderness, and she at his natural strength and patience, forming a bond that deepened with each passing day. Through sleepless nights and all the unglamorous firsts, they knew this new life, challenges and all, was exactly where they were meant to be.

Morning sunlight streamed softly through the kitchen as Natasha, in Steve's old army t-shirt and a pair of well-worn sweatpants, tossed a handful of berries into the blender. She added a banana, some yogurt, and juice, hoping the fruit smoothie would give her enough energy to make it through the morning without too much yawning. She was well past exhausted, but the quiet hum of the compound felt comforting. In the living room, Wanda cradled James, rocking him gently and cooing back to his tiny babbles.

From the TV in the living room, a press conference flickered to life on the screen. Natasha carried her smoothie in and sat on the couch next to Wanda to watch, letting her have some godmother time with James.

Terra, Sam, and Steve were front and center, Steve looking just as polished in his suit as always, though Natasha could sense the same exhaustion in his eyes. As the cameras clicked and the murmurs of the press died down, Steve adjusted the microphone and cleared his throat, a small, reserved smile softening his usually steadfast expression. "Thank you all for being here today," he began, glancing briefly at Terra and Sam beside him, a quiet strength in his posture.

"I know there's been a lot of speculation over the past few weeks," he continued, "and I appreciate your patience as we've taken this time out of the public eye. I'm here today to share that, a month ago, Natasha and I welcomed our son, James, into the world." He paused, his expression shifting with pride and something much deeper—a new sense of purpose. "It's been a huge, incredible change for us, and we needed this time to focus on our family, to settle into these new roles and adjust to a quieter, and sometimes much louder," he chuckled, "kind of mission."

He looked back at Terra, giving a grateful nod. "Thankfully, with Terra stepping in as captain, and with the support of our amazing team, we were able to take a few weeks to focus on Natasha's recovery and to bond as a family."

He then addressed the crowd directly, his gaze unwavering. "We wanted to give James the privacy and protection that every family deserves, especially in these first days of life. We know people have questions and concerns, and while we'll be keeping some things private, we're also committed to staying transparent about our roles as both parents and as Avengers."

Wanda watched with a grin, her gaze flicking between the screen and Natasha. "Look at him up there, Captain Dad. Bet he's as nervous for this as any mission."

Natasha rolled her eyes, though there was a fond smile on her face. "He's probably more worried about accidentally calling me a 'glowing new mom.'" She took a sip of the smoothie, sighing at the familiar tartness of the berries. "If he's smart, he'll keep things to the facts."

Wanda chuckled, looking back to James, who was reaching up to pat her face. "Oh, I don't know. I think he's doing pretty well for a guy who's basically facing a battalion of cameras."

As they watched, Terra took over the microphone, adding a few words about the Avengers team taking on extra duties to support Steve and Natasha. Natasha's heart warmed at the mention of the team stepping up, and she gave Wanda a tired but grateful smile.

Then Friday's voice chimed in, breaking the quiet moment. "Agent Romanoff, you have an incoming call."

Natasha let out a sigh, casting a look at Wanda. "Perfect timing. Right when things were getting interesting."

Wanda grinned, still bouncing James lightly. "Want me to answer and scare them off?"

Natasha smirked, shaking her head. "Tempting, but I should probably take it. If they ask for baby photos, though, they'll get a very sleep-deprived refusal."

Natasha settled onto the couch, smoothing her hair back with a sigh as she answered the call over the loudspeaker. Wanda adjusted James on her lap, keeping quiet as the name on the screen blinked: Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross, U.S. Secretary of State..

"Romanoff," Ross's voice growled, already laden with irritation. "You know, we've been very patient. And what is the first announcement we hear from the Avengers on this. A press conference to the whole world. We've waited a whole month, and yet here we are—still in the dark."

"Good morning, Secretary Ross," Natasha replied coolly. "I'm sure it's hard to catch up on the news when we're actively not listening to the press conference and having this conversation."

Ross ignored her, his tone tightening. "I think you know what I mean. I'm talking about your son. The U.S. government isn't going to stand idly by while one of the Avengers goes off the grid and introduces a child to the team—especially when we have no information on his… biological makeup. You're aware of our concerns with transparency, Natasha. We want full blood work on record and a complete list of any serums that might be in play here."

Natasha's posture stiffened. "You want blood work on an infant. My infant. For what, exactly? So you can satisfy some paranoid suspicion that I'm creating a miniature super-soldier? His medical records are private, Ross. Period."

"That's not your call to make. We need to know what we're dealing with here," Ross pressed. "Given your history, the classified records on you and Rogers, the potential risks—this goes far beyond your need for privacy."

Natasha let out a dark laugh. "This coming from the man who trusted me to keep some of the shadiest files in the history of SHIELD locked down? You want to get into my son's blood work, yet you forget I've already dumped your secrets once, Secretary. You think I won't do it again?"

Ross's voice turned icier. "A threat, is it?"

"Just a reminder," Natasha shot back, her tone deadly calm. "While I did release SHIELD's secrets to the public, a lot of it's still encrypted. Including certain high-clearance files from missions I ran for you personally. Might interest you to know that WikiLeaks would love to help me unencrypt a few of those… incident reports."

Ross let out a low, frustrated sigh. "Enough with the games, Natasha. You're supposed to be a liaison, to be transparent. And yet here you are, dodging your duty—"

"My duty," she interrupted, voice steely, "is to protect my family. And I've done enough for this government to have earned a shred of privacy for my child. This isn't a negotiation."

The line went silent for a moment, Ross's frustration almost palpable. Finally, he spoke, his voice dark and unyielding. "Fine, Romanoff. But mark my words—something's coming. And when it does, you'd better be ready."

The call ended with a sharp click, leaving Natasha in heavy silence. Wanda glanced at her, a quiet look of support in her eyes as Natasha took a deep, steadying breath, her jaw still clenched with lingering anger.

"So… that was Ross," Wanda said, her voice carefully neutral, though a trace of concern flickered in her eyes. "The one that had chased Bruce basically to the ends of the Earth Ross?"

"Yep," Natasha replied, running a hand over her face. "Same old Thunderbolt Ross, prying where he doesn't belong and issuing thinly veiled threats. The fact that the current administration let him rise to Secretary of State is maddening. I wouldn't bring that up around Terra or Bruce."

Wanda raised an eyebrow, tilting her head thoughtfully. "He's relentless, isn't he? The way he was talking—sounded like he's more paranoid than ever. He's really that desperate to know more about James?"

Natasha scoffed, crossing her arms. "As if it's any of his business. James's health is between us and our doctor. But to Ross, the kid's apparently some sort of 'national concern.'" She shook her head, frustration etched in her expression. "He can't stand that we've kept something out of his reach."

Wanda nodded, her expression turning serious. "And then there was that last part. 'Something is coming.' What do you think he meant?"

Natasha's eyes darkened, and she shook her head, a faint unease stirring beneath her irritation. "Honestly? I have no idea. But if Ross is involved, it's bound to be trouble. He doesn't make threats like that unless he's already set something in motion."

October 31st, 2015
Avengers Compound

The compound buzzed with festive energy as the Avengers and their friends gathered for the Halloween party, an event Tony insisted on hosting to "inject some spooky spirit" into the usually serious headquarters. The main lounge was transformed with string lights, fake cobwebs, and carved pumpkins that glowed warmly around the room. In the center, a DJ spun Halloween classics, while tables were decked out with an assortment of sweets, snacks, and more than a few questionable punch bowls Tony had clearly "upgraded."

Natasha sat on one of the couches with James in her arms, the tiniest pumpkin costume snug around him, complete with a tiny green stem hat that bobbled every time he moved. She wore a classic black catsuit, her face painted with subtle whiskers, and she had clipped on a tail and cat ears to complete the look. Natasha caught Steve's eye, who stood nearby dressed as a dashing 1940s pilot, his costume a clever nod to his roots. They exchanged a smile, the sight of James's wide-eyed wonder at the bright lights making her heart swell.

Tony sauntered through the crowd, dressed as a mad scientist in a lab coat splattered with fluorescent paint, oversized goggles perched on his head, and wild "electric shock" hair sticking up in every direction. He laughed, gesturing with beakers full of mysterious "potions," which Pepper—who looked radiant in a fairy costume, complete with sparkling wings and a floral crown—eyed with an affectionate yet wary smile.

Bruce had embraced the holiday spirit fully, transforming into Frankenstein's monster with green face paint and bolts attached to his neck, which he couldn't stop fidgeting with. Beside him, Terra, who took Halloween seriously, wore a dazzling pirate captain's outfit complete with a tricorn hat, a faux saber, and plenty of shiny costume jewelry. She kept Bruce entertained with her playful swashbuckling, taking on her role with gusto.

Sam, ever the comedian, had come as a very sparkly disco ball, his outfit covered in reflective sequins that caught the light at every angle, much to everyone's amusement. He leaned against the snack table, cracking jokes with Rhodes, who had donned a sleek vampire outfit, complete with a cape and fangs that he kept flashing at people while dramatically raising his drink in a sinister salute.

In one corner, Helen Cho and Maria Hill laughed together, both dressed as classic witches in matching pointy hats and capes, complete with a couple of enchanted props from Tony's lab. Maria raised her "wand" in salute to Natasha, winking as she made the end sparkle with a faint purple glow. Helen pointed her "spell book" at Sam and muttered a mock incantation, causing him to twirl around and strike a pose with a gleeful grin.

Wanda and Pietro took a thematic approach, coming as Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. Wanda's red hooded cloak flowed elegantly as she moved, while Pietro's wolf mask and furry suit made him the hit of the party—especially when he threw himself into character, growling playfully and chasing Wanda around to everyone's delight. Vision, meanwhile, was dressed in an impeccable 19th-century vampire outfit, complete with a black suit, cape, and subtle fangs, standing stoically but enjoying himself as he took in the energy of the room.

Natasha sat on the couch, a relaxed smile on her face as she held James, who was enthralled by the lively sights and sounds around him. He was completely mesmerized by the flickering lights and the hum of activity, tiny hands clutching his pumpkin costume as his eyes darted around with fascination. Just then, Pepper and Terra strolled over, both with warm, excited smiles, holding cups of cider and looking ready to catch up.

Pepper was first to lean in, her fairy wings rustling slightly as she reached out a hand to stroke James's cheek. "Nat, he is absolutely precious. Look at those eyes!" she cooed, glancing up at Natasha with a soft grin. "How's it been, really? We've all been dying to hear about these first couple of months."

Natasha chuckled, shifting James a little so he could see Pepper and Terra up close. "It's… an adventure," she admitted, laughing lightly. "Turns out, sleep isn't as optional as I thought. He's decided that's more of a luxury."

Terra shared a knowing look. "Oh, I can imagine," she said. "Steve talked about it a bit during the meetings we've had and the training. I believe his exact words were a blur of late-night feedings and diaper changes."

"That sounds like a whole new level of chaos," Pepper quipped, smirking.

"Exactly," Terra replied, leaning closer. "And you, Nat? How are you holding up with everything?"

Natasha took a deep breath, her smile turning a bit wry. "Honestly, it's a lot. I knew it would be different—just didn't know how different. Between the late-night feedings, his unpredictable naps, and the endless parade of laundry, I feel like my life's been… transformed."

Terra nodded, giving Natasha's arm a gentle squeeze. "Well, you're doing great. Just look at him—he's happy, healthy, and probably the cutest little pumpkin I've ever seen."

Natasha smiled as she watched James gurgle happily, mesmerized by the decorations around him.

Pepper reached over with a mischievous grin. "Nat, why don't you hand him over to us for a bit? We can take him to look at the decorations up close. You and Steve get to relax and enjoy the party for a minute."

Natasha hesitated, glancing at James, who seemed perfectly at ease in her arms. But then she looked at Terra, at her warm smile and eager expression, and she felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. "Okay," she relented, carefully passing James to Pepper, who cradled him like a natural, immediately rocking him gently.

"There we go, little pumpkin," Pepper whispered, her face lighting up as she swayed back and forth. Terra gave Natasha a playful salute. "Captain Pumpkin's on a tour of the festivities," she declared, nudging Pepper. "He's going to love those jack-o'-lanterns."

Natasha watched them as they wandered away, giving James a full view of the lights, decorations, and the friendly faces around them. Leaning back, she took a sip of her drink and felt a rare moment of peace settle over her. Steve appeared beside her a moment later, draping an arm around her shoulder.

"Got a minute to catch your breath?" he asked, glancing over at James and smiling.

"Yeah," she replied softly, resting her head against his shoulder. "It's nice to take a moment amidst all the chaos."

Steve chuckled, his eyes scanning the room. "I don't think I've ever seen so many jack-o'-lanterns in one place. The compound looks amazing."

"Right? The decorations are on point," Natasha said, stifling a laugh as she spotted a few Avengers competing to see who could carve the most elaborate pumpkin. "I just saw Sam trying to convince Tony to join him in a pumpkin carving contest."

Steve shook his head, a grin spreading across his face. "I'd pay to see that. I can only imagine how competitive they'd get."

"Definitely," Natasha laughed. "But speaking of Sam, I've been thinking—we should set him up with Maria tonight."

Steve raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Really? You think so?"

"Yeah, it's totally obvious that he's got the hots for her," Natasha replied, her smile widening. "He's always trying to impress her, like when he shows off his flying skills or makes those ridiculous jokes. It's adorable."

"I've noticed he seems to light up when she's around," Steve said, nodding. "You think we should get him to ask her out?"

"Absolutely! He just needs a little push," Natasha said, her enthusiasm bubbling over. "We could get them together tonight

"Sounds like a plan," Steve agreed, chuckling. "I can already hear him trying to come up with the perfect line to sweep her off her feet."

"Okay," Natasha said, lowering her voice conspiratorially. "We need a plan to get Sam and Maria together tonight."

Steve grinned, leaning closer. "I'm all ears. What do you have in mind?"

"First, we need to find a way to get them both in the same place at the same time," Natasha suggested, her mind racing. "How about the games? I saw they have a bobbing for apples station. It's messy, and it could be fun."

"Perfect! Sam would never back down from a challenge," Steve replied, nodding enthusiastically. "And Maria loves a bit of competition."

"Exactly. I can already hear Sam bragging about how he's the 'apple-bobbing champion,'" Natasha chuckled. "But we have to make sure Maria is there to see it."

"Why don't we suggest a little friendly competition?" Steve suggested, a glint in his eye. "We could invite both of them to team up against us. That way, they'll be forced to work together."

Natasha smiled, impressed. "I like it. But we need to make it seem spontaneous. If they think we're orchestrating it, it might make them nervous."

"Agreed. How about we casually mention the apple-bobbing game while we're talking to them?" Steve said, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Then we can 'accidentally' challenge them to a duel, boys vs girls."

"Perfect! And while they're bobbing for apples, we can stand back and play cheerleaders," Natasha said, her excitement growing. "We'll be supportive friends, yelling encouragement and making sure they notice each other."

"I can already picture it," Steve grinned. "Sam's going to be so focused on winning, he won't even realize what's happening until it's too late."

"Right? And Maria won't know what hit her," Natasha added, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Plus, if things go well, we can give them a little nudge afterward. Maybe suggest a post-game snack? Just the two of them?"

"Now that's the spirit," Steve said, laughing. "This is going to be great."

"Let's do this," Natasha whispered, a grin spreading across her face.

"Hey, Sam!" Steve called out, sauntering over with Natasha at his side. "Are you up for a little friendly competition?"

Sam turned, curiosity lighting up his face. "What's going on? What kind of competition?"

Natasha leaned in, her tone light and playful. "We were thinking of a bobbing for apples challenge—boys vs. girls. What do you say?"

Sam raised an eyebrow, the competitive spark in his eyes igniting. "You're on! But we're short one if you want a teammate, Natasha."

"Looks like you're right," Natasha said. "Let me find someone."

Natasha went through the motions of scanning the room to try and find someone and then landing on Maria.

"Hill," Natasha called out, playfully. "Get your ass over here."

Maria, who was chatting nearby, turned at Natasha's call. "What's up?"

"We're having a bobbing for apples competition," Natasha explained, grinning. "Boys vs girls. You and me versus Steve and Sam. You in?"

Maria's eyes gleamed with excitement. "Absolutely! Let's show you guys how it's done."

"Perfect! Team girls will dominate," Natasha said, her confidence radiating. "Get ready to lose, boys!"

Steve chuckled, rubbing his hands together. "Not if we have anything to say about it. You ladies are going down!"

As they made their way to the bobbing station, Natasha felt a rush of anticipation. The makeshift trough was filled with floating apples, surrounded by cheering friends eager to witness the showdown. Tony had also noticed the chaos and immediately made his way over, designating himself as referee for the game.

"On the count of three!" Tony shouted, the excitement clear on his face. "One… two… three!"

They all plunged their heads into the water, laughter erupting around them. Sam and Steve were quick to dive in, their competitive nature shining through as they splashed around, while Natasha and Maria mirrored their energy with equal enthusiasm.

"Come on, girls! Show them what you've got!" Natasha heard Terra cheer, her voice ringing out over the chaos, as she and Pepper came over with James.

Maria grinned, bobbing her head in the water, determined to snag as many apples as she could. "This is just like training—focus and precision!"

Natasha pulled her head out, a gleaming apple in her teeth, and placed it in their bucket. "And there's one. Admitting defeat now will be so much easier."

"Not if I can help it!" Sam shouted back, his voice muffled as he plunged his head into the water again, his competitive spirit fully engaged.

"Keep it up! At least you'll have fun losing!" Maria teased, pulling out another apple triumphantly.

As the minute came to a close, both teams surfaced, gasping for breath, cheeks flushed with laughter. "How many did we get?" Sam asked, glancing between Natasha and Maria, his competitive edge still intact.

"Seven, a very impressive number" Natasha exclaimed, holding up their apples proudly. "What about you?"

"Uh, we got… seven too," Steve admitted, trying to mask the conspiracy in their actions as disappointment. "Looks like we need a tiebreaker!"

"Looks like we have a tie!" Tony announced, clapping his hands together. "And what better way to settle it than a final showdown?"

Natasha raised an eyebrow, a grin spreading across her face as their plan was going flawlessly. "What do you have in mind?"

"How about a one-on-one bobbing for apples challenge?" Tony suggested. "Maria versus Sam. One apple, winner takes all."

Maria's eyes sparkled with determination. "You're on, Sam! Ready to lose?"

"Not a chance," Sam shot back, grinning. "I hope you're ready for this!"

The crowd parted as they moved back to the trough, cheers and playful taunts erupting around them. Natasha and Steve stood to the side, arms crossed, watching the spectacle unfold.

"Okay, you two," Tony said, stepping in to set the ground rules. "One apple. Best of luck! On your marks… get set… go!"

As soon as the signal was given, both competitors dove into the trough, faces submerged in water. The crowd erupted into cheers, watching closely as they scrambled for the lone apple floating tantalizingly at the center.

Sam emerged first, eyes wide with determination, his head thrashing in the water as he dove back down. Maria was right behind him, her competitive spirit ignited. She focused, reaching for the apple while Sam tried to get there first.

"Come on, Maria!" Natasha shouted, her voice cutting through the noise. "You can do it!"

Sam's teeth brushed the apple, but Maria managed to position herself just right, her competitive edge shining through as she reached out for the prize.

With one final splash, Maria lunged forward, her mouth closing around the apple just a split second before Sam could grab it. She pulled it out triumphantly, holding it in her teeth as water dripped down her face.

"Got it!" Maria shouted, laughing, her victory gleaming in her eyes.

Tony clapped his hands, a happy smile on his face. "Well done! Looks like the girls take the win!"

Sam pulled himself up, laughing, his cheeks flushed with exhilaration. "Okay, I'll admit, that was impressive. You really had me there!"

Maria grinned back, her victory sweet. "I'll take that compliment, thank you very much."

Steve and Natasha watched as Sam and Maria kept talking and eventually went over to dry off and get a drink together, plan working to perfection as Natasha relished in the time she had. Terra and Pepper brought James back over and Natasha held her boy in her arms as he was drifting off to sleep and Natasha and Steve decided to call it a night, being the best Halloween Natasha had in a long time.

November 19th, 2015
Washington D.C.

The early morning sun streamed through the car windows as Natasha navigated the familiar streets of Washington, D.C. The vibrant city felt alive around her, yet she remained focused on the road ahead, her heart fluttering with excitement and a hint of nerves.

It was a week away from Thanksgiving, and Natasha knew she and Steve, along with Ava, Wanda, and Pietro were going to the Bartons this year. However, the team was away in Ecuador on a mission at the moment. She had been cleared for light workouts at this point, and was doing daily yoga and cardio, but she wasn't cleared for physical training yet, let alone missions.

So, she had seized the opportunity for a special trip, one that she wouldn't tell Steve about, but she had some questions and felt like this meeting was necessary.

The hum of the engine was soothing, and James was riding quiet from the backseat, his little eyes watching the toys that hung above his carseat. She stole a glance in the rearview mirror, her heart swelling with affection at the sight of him, dressed in his favorite little onesie adorned with tiny superheroes.

"Almost there, buddy," she murmured, a smile crossing her lips. "You're going to love meeting her."

She pulled up to the ordinary looking nursing home and stopped the car, looking out the window at it, knowing who was inside. She took a breath and gathered herself, and stepped out of the car. She went around and unbuckled the carrier from the car seat, not planning on lifting James out until they were inside the room, and grabbed the diaper bag and headed inside.

She entered the nursing home and went over to the check in counter and the nurse that was there to sign in.

"Good morning," Natasha greeted, her voice warm yet tinged with nervousness. "I'm here to see Peggy Carter."

The nurse looked up, her smile friendly but curious. "And your name?"

"Natasha Romanoff," Natasha replied, her heart racing slightly. She watched the nurse's expression shift as recognition dawned.

"Oh of course" the nurse said, her eyes widening. "I've seen so much about you. I'm sorry—I didn't realize who you were at first."

Natasha waved her hand dismissively, her smile remaining genuine. "No need to apologize. I'm just here to see Peggy."

"Right, right. Let me just check you in." The nurse tapped at her computer, pulling up the information. "She's in room 302. Just follow the signs down the hall, and you'll find her."

"Thank you," Natasha said, feeling a rush of gratitude. She moved quickly down the corridor, tugging James' bag over her as she tugged his carrier along.

Arriving at room 302, she paused, taking a deep breath to steady herself. This was a woman who had inspired so many, including Natasha herself. She knocked gently on the door and then pushed it open slowly.

Inside, Peggy sat in a chair by the window, sunlight filtering in and illuminating the room softly. Her hair was neatly styled, but there was a frailness about her that tugged at Natasha's heart. As she stepped inside, Natasha felt a wave of emotion wash over her.

"Peggy?" Natasha called softly, moving closer.

Peggy turned her head, her eyes momentarily blank before flickering with recognition. "Hello," she said, her voice weak but warm. "Who are you?"

"It's me, Natasha. Natasha Romanoff," she replied gently, setting James' bag on the counter but still holding him in his carrier. "We've never met, but we have a person in common. I was hoping to come and see you."

Peggy's brow furrowed slightly, as if trying to grasp the name. "Ah, yes... Natasha. The fighter," she murmured, a faint smile gracing her lips. "You're Steve's girl aren't you? He talks about you so much."

"Yes, exactly," Natasha encouraged, her heart lifting a little. "How are you doing today?"

"Oh, I'm... I'm fine, dear. Just fine," Peggy said, her voice trailing off as she looked out the window, her gaze unfocused. "Such a beautiful day, isn't it?"

"It is," Natasha agreed, following her gaze. "The flowers are blooming, and the sun is shining bright. I thought you might like some company."

Peggy turned her head back toward Natasha, a flicker of clarity crossing her features. "Company is always nice," she said softly.

Natasha felt a warmth in her chest at Peggy's response. "I'm glad to hear that," she said gently, taking the opportunity to shift the conversation. "Because actually, I brought someone else with me today."

She reached down to the carrier at her feet and carefully unbuckled James, cradling him in her arms. As she lifted him into view, Peggy's eyes widened, and a soft smile spread across her face.

"Oh my, who is this?" Peggy asked, her voice gaining a touch of strength.

"This is James Francis Rogers," Natasha introduced, holding him closer. "Mine and Steve's son."

"James," Peggy repeated, her eyes lighting up with a mixture of joy and nostalgia. "What a lovely name. I assume after Sergeant Barnes, correct?."

Natasha nodded, moving closer to let Peggy admire the baby. "Francis after my best friend Clint Barton," she said, gently shifting James so that Peggy could see him better. "He brought me into SHIELD."

"Oh I remember Barton," Peggy murmured, her gaze tender. "Crazy man with the bow and arrow Look at those eyes and that hair, got those right from you. But otherwise, he's almost a copy of Steve."

Natasha chuckled softly, feeling a swell of pride. "And his stubbornness too." She paused, her expression growing serious.

"I don't want to dump things on you," Natasha said. "But Steve and the team are away on mission and I want to ask so many questions and learn about you because you meant so much to Steve. I guess I'm just a little insecure postpartum."

"Feel free to ask away my dear," Peggy said, still looking over James' features. "I happen to be a great listener and advice giver."

Natasha smiled softly and then just dove right into it.

"Sometimes I worry, you know? About being a good mother, sure, but it goes deeper than that. I can't help but think about your history with Steve. He always talks about you, and I wonder if I measure up."

Peggy's eyes remained focused on James, but her expression turned thoughtful. "It's natural to feel that way, Natasha. Steve and I had something special, yes, but it was a different time. He's a different man now."

Natasha looked down, her heart heavy with doubt. "But I can't shake the feeling that he loved you first. That he loved you in a way he can't love me."

Peggy turned her gaze to Natasha, her expression gentle but firm. "You're wrong about that. Steve talks about you all the time. He's never been happier than he is with you. The love he has for you is deeper and more profound than anything we ever had. Trust me, he wouldn't have chosen you otherwise."

Natasha felt a flicker of hope amidst her insecurities. "But how can you be so sure? I just feel like there's always this shadow—your memory. Sometimes I worry he'll compare us."

"Natasha," Peggy said softly, "I know Steve. He's a man of the past, but he's also a man of the present. He's chosen to be with you because you're the one he wants, and I can see how much he cherishes you. It's not about comparing. It's about building a life together now."

Natasha swallowed hard, her emotions churning. "I just want to be enough for him. I don't want to let him down."

Peggy smiled gently, a motherly warmth radiating from her. "You're more than enough. You are strong, caring, and capable. James will grow up knowing he has the best mother. And Steve loves you, Natasha. He loves you in a way that he could never love me."

Natasha settled a bit after that, the big questions answered and relief washing over her, watching as Peggy lovingly gazed at James. "You know," Natasha continued, figuring she was in this far she might as well keep going, her voice low, "I often wonder what kind of world we're leaving for our children. With everything happening, it feels like we're always fighting."

Peggy nodded thoughtfully, her fingers gently stroking James's tiny hand. "The world has always been complicated, but that doesn't mean we can't make a difference. It's the small moments, the love we share, that truly matter. Teach him compassion, resilience, and courage. Those traits will guide him through the storms."

"I just hope he never has to fight the battles we did," Natasha admitted, her voice thick with emotion. "I've seen too much, and I don't want that for him."

Peggy's gaze softened, her voice steady. "You can't shield him from everything, Natasha. But you can be his foundation. You can give him the tools he needs to navigate the world. The love you and Steve share will be his greatest strength."

Natasha swallowed hard, appreciating Peggy's wisdom. "Sometimes, I feel like I'm not doing enough. Like I'm not the kind of mother he deserves."

"Every mother has those moments of doubt," Peggy said, her eyes meeting Natasha's with an understanding warmth. "What matters is that you show up for him, that you try your best. Your love is what will make the difference, not perfection."

"Thank you for saying that. It helps to hear it from you," Natasha said, a soft smile breaking through her worries.

Peggy paused for a moment, her expression shifting to something more serious. "You know, Natasha, it's important to take care of yourself too. You carry a lot on your shoulders. Don't forget to lean on Steve when you need to. You're not in this alone."

"I know, but sometimes it's hard to let go. I want to be strong for him, for James, for everyone," Natasha replied, her voice earnest.

"Strength comes in many forms. It's not just about being tough; it's about being vulnerable too. Allow yourself to feel, to rely on the people who love you," Peggy encouraged, her eyes shining with sincerity.

Just as Natasha was about to respond, a nurse stepped into the room with a warm smile. "Excuse me, Ms. Romanoff, but I need to let you know that Peggy has an appointment coming up."

Peggy looked up, her expression shifting slightly but still kind. "Oh, dear. I didn't realize the time had passed so quickly."

Natasha stood, moving closer to Peggy's side. "I'm glad I got to see you today, Peggy. I'll make sure to bring Steve and James next time."

"I'd love that," Peggy replied, her voice warm with affection. "You're doing wonderfully, Natasha. Keep believing in yourself."

Natasha felt a lump in her throat as she leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to James's forehead. "Take care of yourself, Peggy. I'll see you soon."

As Peggy nodded, the nurse gently guided her towards the door. "I'll see you next time, my dear," Peggy said, her voice filled with warmth as she smiled at Natasha.

"Goodbye, Peggy," Natasha replied softly, holding James in her arms as they left the room, getting the feeling that this would be the last time she saw Margaret Carter.