Chapter 9: Turning Point
December 1, 2018The Flask Pub, Hampstead
11:27 PM
As the first day of December arrived, Londoners seemed to think alike as many of them stepped out of their routine and decided to enjoy the cold Saturday night. The freezing temperature did not deter people from going out for fun. Like most people, Peggy urged her best friends to come and hang around for drinks.
Peggy tagged Maria Hill along with her as she returned to Hampstead for the weekend. The American lass was no longer a stranger in London and knowing her roommate, she knew that within their drinking session, the English brunette would begin to rant out about something. And that, she didn't want to miss.
As Peggy, Maria, Gemma, Alice, and Dina bar-hopped around London early in the evening, the girls finally did their last hopping at Hampstead. The Flask Pub was their final stop, which was their usual hang-out place after a tedious and extravagant nightlife escapade.
The pub was bustling with patrons, and it was louder than usual. But the girls didn't mind as they all gathered at the back booth and enjoyed their beers. They all laughed at their mishaps for that night and even talked about their usual topics, each other's love life.
As Alice and Dina stepped out and grabbed a new round of drinks, Peggy, Gemma, and Maria waited for their return. As they did that, they casually conversed about something they saw on their social media. Maria was chuckling at something she was watching, while Gemma swiped her finger upward every two seconds. Peggy, on the other hand, has another ongoing chat conversation.
"Crikey O'Reilly!" Peggy suddenly bellows, startling the two women around her. Maria and Gemma looked at each other before they stared at the brunette with wide eyes in anticipation.
"What happened?" Gemma shouts over the loud music. She then leans to the brunette and reads the message Peggy was staring at.
After Gemma read it, Peggy showed it to Maria, who was patiently waiting for them to blurt it out. The woman then quickly tried to figure out, who Peggy was talking to. When she saw Steve's last name, Maria couldn't help but smirk as she started to read.
sgrogersart: Peggy!
sgrogersart: I have some exciting news!
sgrogersart: I can't believe I'll be seeing you sooner than I'd thought.
Hahaha: wellpeggy
What do you mean?: wellpeggy
sgrogersart: So Stark Industries has expanded its galleries internationally and surprisingly, we will have one in London.
Wow! That's great! I guess I'll be booking a tour of the gallery: wellpeggy
sgrogersart: That would be awesome.
sgrogersart: But it would be more awesome if I get to do the touring for you.
What do you mean?: wellpeggy
sgrogersart: I'll be spearheading the opening of the gallery in London as the senior curator.
Peggy pulled back her phone and stared at her friends with bright eyes. "Did you see his message?" she asked, excitedly.
"So, what does he technically mean?" Gemma questioned, snapping the brunette out of her thoughts, "What does it mean by spearheading the opening? Will he be here for the opening only?"
Peggy then looked at her with renewed confusion. Suddenly, she tilts her head in contemplation, "Now, that you mentioned it, I actually don't know…but either way—"
"Well, then ask him," Maria encouraged, as she knocked her knuckle on the table. But then the brunette didn't move, making the two girls curious at her sudden stunned reaction.
"Oh, my goodness," Peggy whispered as it dawned on her, "Does that mean, I could possibly see him again? And soon?"
"Apparently," Gemma answers, shrugging her shoulders. She then glanced at Maria, "What's happening with her?" she mouthed to the American, who could only shake her head in confusion as well.
"Hey, Peg, are you alright?" Maria then snapped her fingers in front of the woman. But Peggy still seemed stuck in her thoughts.
"I'm just speechless," Peggy lets out a laugh as if she was releasing some pent-up emotions she was holding back, "It's really happening and I'm not just imagining it. Right?"
Maria and Gemma slowly nodded their heads, before looking back at each other. Maria's eyes glanced at Peggy's phone on the table and then quickly looked back at Gemma. She quickly tilts her head, as if to convey to her that she'd grab the phone. When Gemma figured it out, she looked at Peggy's phone too, and quickly seized it.
Without hesitating, Gemma started typing away, "You know, you still haven't figured out how long he'd be staying? Aren't you curious?"
"What do you mean?" Peggy asks, finally snapping out of her surprise. She glanced at her best friend, who was busy typing on the phone.
"He said, he's a senior curator," Maria supplied the response, "I think that sounds a little permanent,"
"What?"
"Exactly," Gemma then handed the phone back to Peggy, who then became confused at the phone in her hand, "I think this is quite exciting news and you need to know all the details,"
She stared at her two friends, who were just grinning back at her. Soon enough, Alice and Dina arrived with beers in their hands. But before Peggy could even grab hers, her phone suddenly chimed, grabbing the trio's attention.
"Read it!" Maria animatedly instructed as she leaned over the table.
When Alice and Dina raised a brow, Maria quickly told them the story. Peggy then looked down at her phone and realized that Gemma had typed in some messages on her behalf.
What do you mean?: wellpeggy
sgrogersart: I'll spearhead the opening of the gallery in London as the senior curator.
Does that mean you will come to London on the opening night? Or is that some new job?: wellpeggy
sgrogersart: It's actually a new job assignment. So, I'll stay in London for months until the grand opening in June. I'll be flying there by next week.
"Oh, good gracious!" Peggy's eyes were wide as she looked up at her stunned and anticipating friends, "He's coming to London next week," Peggy muttered, then repeated it with renewed excitement, "Steve's flying to London next week!"
The girls simpered at the brunette, who then started shaking Gemma by her shoulders, in enthusiasm.
"I heard you, Peggy," Gemma said, laughing, "Are you that excited to see him?"
"Of course!" Peggy replies laughing as well, before she pulls back and grabs her glass of beer. She then raised her glass, to which everyone followed, "Cheers!"
"Cheers," all of them chimed back, clinking their glasses altogether, then took a large swig of their beer.
Peggy then sighs in satisfaction as she puts down her glass, "I thought I wouldn't see him again in person,"
"It's nice to see you this happy," Alice then comments as she leans back on the couch, "And I'm quite not surprised that it would be the same person who makes you this giddy."
"Giddy?" Peggy shook her head, "Gosh, I'm not that…giddy." the girls chuckled at her denial despite her reddening cheeks. "What? I'm just glad about the fact that I'll be seeing Steve once again." She then starts fumbling with her glass, as she recollects the last time she'd seen Steve in person.
"Back then, when we parted ways, it felt like it would be the last time I'd see him and that there would be no opportunity like before that would bring us together,"
"Did you tell him that before?" Dina curiously inquired.
Peggy shook her head, "I never thought of telling him that. I thought it might make things weird. It's not like he's obligated to make a way for us to meet again,"
"But maybe he felt the same," Alice then shrugs her shoulders, "Steve seems to be the type to do everything he can to make it work,"
Peggy was then silent, unsure of what to think about what she'd said. She knew Alice was right about Steve, and she didn't know what to do with that fact.
"Why'd you give on him so easily?" Gemma suddenly raised, crossing her arms as she leaned back on their couch seat and stared at the brunette next to her.
Peggy looked at the other brunette taken aback at her bluntness, "Give up? What are you talking about? I-I—what's there to give up?"
"Really, Margaret?" Maria remarks with raised a brow, "Can you say directly to our faces that you did not have a crush on him? That you weren't infatuated with him. Because we know you did,"
Peggy gawked at the sudden attack Maria was doing on her.
"You do know that back in high school, you were like gatekeeping him from us," Dina then chuckles when Peggy turns a hue red, "You didn't even let us meet him in video call before not until Gemma caught you,"
"Right!" Gemma adds in recollection, "I had to intrude a little with your video call and meet your mysterious American lad,"
The girls then laughed, while Peggy cowered in her seat, trying to hide her reddened face.
"So, why did you give up?" Maria suddenly butts in over the laughter.
"I—" Peggy closed her gaping mouth and sternly looked at her friends, "Girls, you know that he and I were—"
"Yeah, we know, you were just friends," Maria cuts off, "But still, you gave up on something that was already there between the two of you,"
The others nodded their head as Peggy looked at them one by one as if checking if they all thought the same.
"You know, it's not like you to give up on something you believe in. So, why'd you let him go?" Gemma then took her hand and gave her a reassuring squeeze.
Suddenly, Peggy felt her heart beat a little faster. She thought to herself, why did I give up on the idea of us easily? But did I?
"To be honest, I…don't know," Peggy shook her head as she tried to let her thoughts spill out, "I mean, back in my mind, I know I never gave up on him. I always clang to the idea of him and I getting to know each other better, hopefully, face to face. But it's just that, one day, I found myself getting distracted by Fred, then went out with him, until I said yes to him, and now, I'm with him," she sighed in defeat, slumping back to the couch.
"So, you mean, you're still hoping that you and Steve?" Alice trails off and Peggy sighs in answer.
"I know I shouldn't. I feel guilty for pining on Steve behind Fred's back. That's why, I tend to be defensive every time someone reminds me about how Steve and I had chemistry."
The girls nodded their heads as they understood Peggy's sentiment.
"Then break up with him," Maria suggests with certainty. She then leaned over the table and grabbed Peggy's hand. She gave it a firm squeeze, "Pegs, maybe this is the sign,"
"Hill—"
"No, no, listen. I think this is the universe pulling its strings to get you two together," Maria then grins as she tries to explain her theory, "Maybe this is fate, making you both wait to get to a certain point in your lives and making sure that you both will never give up on each other easily,"
"Now, that's just absurd," Peggy shudders, "Fate and the universe have nothing to do with Steve and me. We are in this situation because of our choices. I chose Fred over Steve because I was being realistic and didn't rely on the hope that one day Steve and I will have our chance,"
"But what if this is the chance?" Dina suddenly asked, stilling the brunette for a second.
"Then…" Peggy swallows down the lump forming in her throat, "It's a moment I probably would have to miss out,"
"Unless…" Maria then smirks, "Something changes,"
Alice, Gemma, and Dina frantically bob their heads.
"And what change are you pertaining about?" Peggy raised an accusing brow.
"What if you make that change yourself?" Maria then looked at their group, who were smirking along with her, "You end things with Fred. Do you think you'll still choose him over Steve?"
"What?" Peggy gawped, "Of course—"
"Yeah, right," Gemma side remarks, and then rolls her eyes.
Peggy couldn't help but scoff at her best friend's reaction, "You don't believe me?"
"Well…" Maria trails off before they all shrug their shoulders, making the brunette sneer back at them.
"Oh, you girls have little faith in me," Peggy scowled at them, but they just chuckled at her.
"Well, only time will tell," Gemma reached out to grab her beer and nonchalantly bounced her shoulders.
December 5, 2018
Heathrow Airport
10:58 PM
As people emerged out of the Terminal 2 gate, Edwin Jarvis looked around and searched for a certain blonde man that he surprisingly missed. He has been the butler of the Stark family for years and he has met many friends of the family already. He will admit that many of them were not always pleasant to be around. But this certain man was different. Steven Rogers wasn't an arrogant lad as those Howard and Tony mingle with at times. So, it's always wonderful to interact with someone who exudes kindness and righteousness.
Shifting in his legs, Edwin tip-toed up and down to find his blonde friend. The placard in his hand was nearly forgotten as he tried to find the familiar face. After some time, a wide grin surfaced on his lips as he recognized the lad he was waiting for.
"Mr. Rogers!" Jarvis suddenly shouts over the crowd and waves his placard around.
Steve's brows shoot up in surprise before he chuckles at the familiar Englishman, "Mr. Jarvis? What are you doing here?"
"Well, what do you think?" Jarvis chuckles at the reddened face of the man, "Of course, I'm here to pick you up, and don't argue with me that this isn't part of my job,"
Steve huffed a laugh as he shook his head, "Well, technically, it isn't really your job. You're Mr. Howard's butler, not some chaperone of Stark Industries,"
"I know," Jarvis then grinned, "That's why I'm not here as his butler,"
Steve tilts his head in confusion, "Then…why are you here?"
"Can't I pick up my friend?" Edwin broke into a large smile when Steve's eyes grew wide in surprise then into gratitude, "When Tony mentioned that you will be working here in London, I volunteered to pick you up at the airport. Since I'm on a month-long vacation with my wife here in Bloomsbury, it was a perfect idea,"
Steve sighs in relief, "That's really nice of you, Mr. Jarvis. Thank you, I didn't expect this,"
"Well, expect more of this," Jarvis then reached out and helped Steve push his luggage trolley, "Ana insists that you both meet. So, you'll probably see us both more often until you get settled,"
Steve smiles back and nods his head at the man, "That would be nice. Thank you,"
"Alright then, let's get you settled in your new apartment,"
After settling into his new apartment in Mayfair, Steve immediately worked on his personal to-do list that Friday morning. He wasn't expected to report in the gallery until Monday, and he thought it would be wise to get familiar with the new place. After all, he'd be staying in London for six months, probably even more.
So, checking on his list, he needed to figure out how to get to the Stark Art Gallery from the apartment that Stark Industries had procured for him. After so many turns and crossing streets, Steve finally spots his new workplace, and just like usual, he admires it in awe.
Standing before the glass revolving door of Stark Art Gallery, Steve looked up and grinned at the building in front of him. This was surreal for him as he had never thought he'd stand before an art gallery as a senior curator.
Being a curator was not his actual dream job, but being able to do something that interested him and allowed him to express his appreciation of art was a dream already. And so, he stood there, letting himself daydream when suddenly a passerby bumped into him in the street and snapped him back to reality. The man quickly apologized to him but said it without glancing back at him. Steve shook his head and immediately reminded himself that this was just any ordinary day for everyone. He couldn't be loitering around the street to just daydreaming.
"All right, Rogers, let's get started," he muttered to himself, beaming as he pushed forward and entered the building.
Soon enough, he was in the lobby, which was deserted at the moment. He couldn't help himself dropping his jaw in amazement as he looked around. The lobby floor was a mix of pearl white and ash gray marble tiles, then there were finished white pillars in the corners and other essential areas holding the second floor, and a stunning chandelier glistened in the middle as the sun filled in from the high sunroof.
Technically, the gallery wasn't open to the public yet and was still under construction. The building itself was finished, with only a few more areas that needed some polishing. In the next six months, aside from completing the set of employees working in the gallery, the interior designs, electrical jobs, and furnishings needed to be done.
A loud banging then resounded in the lobby, snapping Steve out of his trance. At that, he then realized that there were construction workers, beginning their tasks for the day. The workers didn't pay him attention as he gawked around moments ago, but now that he was aware, Steve could see a few of them glancing his way, and he wanted to ask someone about the building.
Steve exhaled in preparation and eyed everyone working. He thought he should look for the foreman and just inquire when suddenly someone cleared their throat. He quickly turned around to see a man approaching. He had a little mustache, wearing a hard hat, dark brown slack pants, a navy blue polo shirt, and a clipboard on his hands.
"Hello, sir!" the man waved, "I'm sorry, but the gallery isn't open yet for viewing,"
"Oh," Steve turned pink as he realized what he looked like. Aside from the ogling look he had on his face, he was just wearing his short-sleeved classic white shirt, loosely open at the top, and grayish-green twill chinos. He didn't look formal at all, so no one would guess he was there for a job. "Um, yeah, I—uh, figured that. Sorry…actually I'm not here for viewing?"
The man's brows furrowed as he stood up straight, "I see," the man then crossed his arms over his chest as he eyed him, up and down, "So, what can I do for you? Who are you?"
"Um, Steve Rogers," he said, introducing himself, sounding like he was asking if the name sounded familiar, "I uh—well, it's Steven Grant Rogers. I'm the—"
"The curator!" the man suddenly exclaimed in excitement, startling the blonde at the sudden shift of expression. The Englishman grinned at him and quickly offered his hand, "Yes, I have heard of you. I knew the name of the curator, but I wasn't shown any pictures. I'm sorry, I didn't expect you to come until Monday," Steve then shook his hand as the man tilted his head in amusement, "Why, aren't you a diligent person?"
Steve huffs a laugh, shoving his hands into his pockets, "Well, it's probably just a coincidence. I'm just trying to get familiar with getting here,"
"Even more!" the man exclaimed, "No one is that considerate anymore, nowadays. You're a breath of fresh air,"
Steve blushed at the compliment and suddenly he wasn't sure what to say next. Thankfully, the man offered to walk him around, "By the way, I'm James Montgomery Falsworth, part of the legal team handling the Stark Art Gallery,"
"Oh, hi James," Steve shook hands with the man again for a more formal introduction.
"Please, just call me Monty,"
"Monty, huh?" Steve then chuckles, "I guess you're that kind of James who doesn't want to use his first name too,"
Monty chuckles, "Well, I think all James does that,"
… … … … …
The Stark Art Gallery in London is relatively bigger than the one Steve worked in Manhattan. The building had eight floors aside from the lobby. Steve got confused for a second as Monty explained that the first floor was when they went up the stairs. Monty insisted that in the UK, the first floor was not the one in the lobby.
The first four floors were designated for art shows and events. That was where the art pieces and designs were displayed, and Steve had large spaces to work with, which excited him as he thought about doing his first curating for the gallery. As they reached the fourth floor, there were three elevators, two were accessible to the public, and the third was behind another receptionist's desk, which meant it was only for employees. The remaining four floors were intended for the different offices that will be stationed there.
It was quite a contrast to the building that Steve was familiar with. Unlike in New York, the headquarters of the art gallery in Manhattan was in Stark Industries. Any corporate transactions were done in the HQ. However, given that this would be an overseas company, the main offices of the Stark Industries Art department would also reside in the new building.
"So technically, this is sort of the Stark Industries building in London," Monty turns around to show the span of the floor being constructed.
Steve inclined his head in agreement, "So, Accounting, HR? All here?"
"Yep," Monty shrugs his shoulder, "And so is our legal team. Our firm is just a few blocks from here, but having lawyers and legal consultants stationed here would be more efficient. After all, Mr. Howard Stark can randomly drop by—he has an office,"
Steve's eyes were wide in attention, realizing how much of a big project he was now involved in. He suddenly had a mixed feeling of excitement, anticipation, and worry. This kind of trust from the company was too early on for him as a fresh graduate. He felt unsure, suddenly, if he was the right choice for the job.
"Well, are there other employees now coming in?" Steve quickly tucks his hands into his pockets to hide his shaking hands.
"Actually, no. You're the first," Monty smiled amusingly, "And that says a lot about your character,"
Steve leaned his head in question and Monty quickly chuckled at the blonde's confused face. Feeling comfortable with him, Monty drops his arms around the man and turns him around to walk further on the floor they were on, "I was told only a few admins and trusted employees from the United States were coming and that they'd report by Monday to begin the actual recruitment. Seeing you here, means, it's either you're in an administrative position or a trusted employee,"
"Well, I'm still new—"
"Trusted employee then." Monty then taps the blonde's shoulders, "Whether you're new or not, you're trusted by the company, and they are not wrong to do so,"
"You don't even know me," Steve raised a dubious brow at the brunette.
"I don't," Monty grinned, "But I know your employee details and record. So, I have an idea, and it's great to meet you. I'd be glad to work with you,"
Monty's cellphone suddenly rings, interrupting the two from their conversation. As Monty excused himself to answer, Steve turned away to sigh.
He looked around and slowly, he could imagine how the floor looked. It was the designated area for the Art department. So probably, he will be stationed there. It then struck him, once again, just like it did back in New York, he was now a Senior Curator, one step closer to his actual dream job.
"Hey, Steve?" Monty called, disrupting Steve's contemplation, "Do you have anything to do today?"
Steve shook his head, "Not really. Just planning to roam around, get to know Mayfair,"
"Great," Monty clapped his hand, as if in finality, "How do you feel about starting your work early?"
Steve nonchalantly shrugs his shoulders.
"Do you want to come by the firm? I have some documents sent in by the New York office, that you might want to look into for recruitment,"
"Uh, sure, that would be great," Steve smiled confidently. Swiftly, he felt a surge of determination to do his best.
"Alright, let's go,"
… … … … …
As soon as Steve and Monty arrived at the law firm building, the two went to Monty's floor and quickly approached the assigned secretary of their department. He had a quick chat with the woman and went further inside.
Steve hesitantly approached the secretarial counter, unsure of how to explain his presence in the building. When the woman looked up at him, she quickly smiled and stood up.
"How may I help you, sir?"
"Oh, um, I'm with James," Steve then points in the direction Monty disappeared into.
"James, who?"
Steve was stunned for a second before he shook his head, "Sorry, um, James Falsworth,"
"Oh, Monty! Yes, he's just inside to retrieve some documents. Would you like to settle inside his office?"
"Oh, no need. I'll just wait here," Steve then steps back.
"Alright, mister?" the woman tilts her head in anticipation.
"Rogers. Steve Rogers,"
"Ah, you're Steve Rogers!" the woman then extends her hand for a handshake, "Monty mentioned that you're from Stark Industries. I'm Rose Roberts, SSR law firm secretary,"
"It's nice to meet you," Steve said shaking her hand.
"Do you need coffee?"
"Oh, you don't have to do that. I'm okay," Steve then turns around and sees a waiting area, "I'll stay there, wait for Monty,"
"Okay, suit yourself," Rose said, nodding appreciatively, before taking her seat.
As Steve was about to turn away and head to the waiting area, a voice suddenly spoke, halting him from walking away.
"Steve?" the voice whispered with a tone of surprise.
The blonde quickly twirls around to look and immediately his eyes widened in disbelief. "Peggy?"
Steve nervously walked out to the veranda of the fourth floor, as Peggy trailed behind him. It had been years since he saw her in person, and being around her this close just made his heart beat faster.
As soon as they were outside, away from other people's prying eyes, he cautiously turned around to face his long-distance friend.
"Uh…Hi, Peggy," Steve shyly greets the woman scowling before him. He rubs his neck, nervously as he waits for her to react.
Without warning, Peggy suddenly punched his upper arm, causing the blonde to yelp at the sudden impact.
"What the hell are you doing here?!" Peggy bellowed right after.
She watched the blonde wince and rubbed his hand over the spot where she hit him. Suddenly, her eyes welled up and without second guessing, she threw her arm around Steve's neck, hugging him, making them stumble backward.
When a sob escaped her lips, Peggy quickly pulled away to look back at the blonde. Her hands rested on his shoulders first then ran up his neck and throat to cup his cheeks. She heaved a laugh as it finally hit her that this wasn't a dream, "You're really here," she whispered.
Steve's stunned look was almost stuck on his face when Peggy hugged him. And when Peggy pulled away, he couldn't take his eyes off her. His breath hitched as she smiled at him, softly. Suddenly, he felt her hands caress his cheeks and he couldn't help but blush at the tender way she held him.
"I'm back," he replies, quietly. And soon enough, Peggy envelops him in another tight hug and this time, Steve wraps his arms around Peggy's waist, pulling her closer to him.
… … … … …
Sitting on the lone stone bench in the veranda, the two best friends were quite flushed at their unexpected reunion. Peggy sat with crossed legs, trying to calm her erratic heart, but nibbled on her lips as her thoughts drifted towards the moment she hugged Steve spontaneously. She felt like bursting into laughter with amusement, not regretting one bit because she liked the way he hugged her back.
As for Steve, he couldn't help but feel bashful about how he had wrapped his arms around Peggy's waist. He was sure friendly hugs weren't supposed to be around someone's waist. Yet, somehow, she fitted well in his arms. He slowly glanced at her and was immediately enamored with the way she was biting her lips. Her ever-famous, sumptuous red lips.
"Why didn't you tell me you were coming?" Peggy suddenly asks, snapping Steve out of his thoughts.
Steve hastily looked away as he felt his body jolt and flush. He stumbled with his words for a moment before sighing in defeat, "I'm sorry, I was planning to surprise you. I was going to Hampstead by the weekend when you return from Cambridge." he then looked at her timidly.
"You were?" Peggy looked back at the blonde and was a little surprised that he was looking back at her already. She suddenly fumbles with her fingers as Steve nods his head.
"Michael told me that you usually returned home when it was the weekend. So, I thought I'd come by and surprise you. But it seems like, the universe has something else for us,"
The brunette quickly stiffened at the words Steve used. Conversations from last weekend resonated in her mind and made her heart skip a beat.
After a long pause, Peggy lets out a sighed laughter, "Yeah, one would think so,"
"So, what are you doing here?" Steve then looked back at the office, which was thankfully busy, "I didn't expect to meet you here at all,"
"Neither did I," Peggy chuckled, "But, I was here for an apprenticeship interview,"
"Apprenticeship? I thought you were applying at Societal Security Relations?"
"Yeah, it's the SSR Law Firm," Peggy then laughed heartily when Steve turned red and realized the meaning of the firm's acronym.
"Of course, how did I not get that?" Steve turned his head in disbelief before chuckling along with the brunette. "How did it go?"
Peggy shrugged, "To be honest, I'm not sure. There were three ladies and two men with me being interviewed for two open apprentice positions. Who knows? maybe those two men will be preferred over having at least one lady apprentice,"
"Hey," Steve suddenly bumps her on the shoulder, "Don't sell yourself short. You're Peggy Carter, if there is someone who deserves a position there, it would be you. I think you're one of the best. This firm would be a fool not to take you,"
Peggy felt her heart flutter and warm, especially with the way Steve assuringly gazed at her, "I don't think you're Steve," she suddenly muttered, grinning.
Steve scrunches his nose in confusion, "What?"
"The Steve I know is not a smooth talker, particularly to women," Peggy's eyes showed mirth when Steve blushed at her comment. She couldn't hold her laughter later and playfully bumped him. When Steve started laughing, Peggy let caution to the wind and leaned toward Steve, placing her head on his shoulder.
Steve stiffened at the sudden contact and then felt Peggy twine her arms to his. He then heard her breathe, "Thank you, Steve, for always believing in me."
… … … … …
As Steve stood by the veranda and waved to Peggy who waved back at him, Monty couldn't help but purse his lips from grinning. His eyes fleeted, back and forth, from the brunette to the blonde before the woman finally disappeared inside the building, leaving him with the American.
"I didn't know your girlfriend was British,"
Steve jolted at the label and quickly shook his head, "She's not my girlfriend. We're just friends,"
He gave a pointed look at the blonde, "Just friends? Well, you seem to be really close,"
"It's just been a long time since we met in person," Steve exhaled deeply as if indicating to drop the topic. But the man was piqued.
"But you do have a girlfriend?"
Steve shakes his head again.
"And why ever not?" Monty steps up to the lad and sits next to him on the bench, "You seem to be a thoughtful gentleman. Every girl would want that,"
"Well, I'm not interested in just any girl," Steve mumbled softly, almost like he only wanted to say it to himself. As he pursed his lips in defeat and looked down at his hands, his mind slowly wandered to how it felt holding Peggy.
"So, you like her?" Monty asked, interrupting the blonde's silence.
Seeing the blonde's abrupt stunned glance, he knew he was right. But when Steve replied, "She has a boyfriend," Monty couldn't help but chortle.
"But you do like her," he repeated, and Steve stared at him as if he was about to argue his point. So, he shook his head and added, "You didn't say no. Trying to mask the truth with a different fact does not undermine the first truth,"
"It doesn't matter," Steve said, shaking his head. When he was about to counter him, the blonde gave him a stern look and beat him to saying, "Do you have the papers you mentioned?"
Seeing Steve's intention, he couldn't help but sigh and raise the folder he was holding. When Steve took it, he was left with no choice but to drop the topic.
December 10, 2018
Trinity College Cambridge
8:43 AM
Peggy headed to school in a rush after she had dropped off some of her things in the dorm. Breaking her routine of returning to Cambridge by Sunday night, she opted to stay in their home in Hampstead until Monday dawn. She knew that she could be late for school if she stayed. But she didn't mind it, at all, because she wouldn't trade her weekend for perfect attendance.
As she passed people, she slightly stumbled when someone suddenly called her name very loudly. She quickly searched the area for a familiar face and soon enough, Maria emerged from the crowd, running up to her.
"Carter!" Maria bellowed, efficiently skipping people until she was in front of the brunette, "Why are you late?"
"I'm not late," Peggy countered, rolling her eyes, as they continued to head to their class "I'm just not as early as usual,"
"Yeah, and in your world that means you're late," Maria teased as the brunette groaned, "Now, I'm really curious about what happened in Hampstead,"
Peggy tweaks a questioning brow at the woman, "Nothing unusual," she negated.
"Ah, so spending the weekend with Rogers is nothing unusual," Maria then smirked when she felt the woman's glare at her.
"Can you get to the point, Hill?" Peggy irately muttered, shaking her head, "I'm not really in the mood,"
"Well," Maria tries to stifle her laughter, "It's just surprising that you spent the weekend with the one and only Steve Rogers, and you didn't tell us your friends,"
"I posted it, didn't I?" Peggy sneaks a peek at the other brunette.
"Ah, so you did want it to be a little secret," Maria grinned before she teasingly jolted her, "How did it go?"
"Like I said," Peggy then stopped right at the door to their class, "Nothing unusual,"
She immediately stepped inside their lecture hall to avoid any further conversation. When they found their seats, it was just at the right time that their professor began the lecture. Peggy worked silently as she pulled out her laptop and forced herself to listen even if she knew Maria was staring hard at her.
"Hill, stop it," Peggy muttered, earning a grin from the brunette. "Seriously," she finally looked back at the woman to glare at her, "I'm trying to listen,"
Maria rolled her eyes, "You've read that lecture twice for sure. I know you understand that already. Ms. Campbell can't give you more information that you haven't researched. How's Steve?"
Peggy was mum for a second as she thought to rebut what Maria said but she did have a point. She wasn't interested in listening to the lecture, as she was quite distracted with her thoughts about her weekend. She just wanted to relish it and relive it for one more day. And having Maria bombard her with questions about it, she knew that she would just end up talking about Steve, endlessly again. This made her glower at the woman next to her.
Knowing that she won, Maria bounced her brows, teasingly at her, "So? How's Brooklyn boy? What did you both do? How's the date—"
"It wasn't a date," Peggy clarified, earning a mischievous grin from the woman. At that instant, she regretted saying anything.
"If it wasn't a date, then what was it?" Maria goaded, amusedly.
"It was a catch-up kind of thing," Peggy said as she widened her eyes at each word, "Don't insinuate,"
"Alright, I won't," Maria then stifled her laughter as she leaned back in her chair.
As Peggy thought that it was the end of it, Maria suddenly leaned one arm on their shared armrest and whispered, while keeping her eyes in front, "Seriously, how's Steve?"
Glancing for a second at the brunette, Peggy let out a breath as she copied the woman. She kept her eyes on their professor as she let her mind be elsewhere.
"He's doing good…" Peggy had a ghost of a smile on her lips, "I wasn't wrong when I noticed recently that his cheeks had filled in compared to years ago."
"Still the witty one?" Maria jest, making Peggy chortle.
"Yep, still the witty and smart one I always talk to. He's even got better at talking to women," she joked.
"He flirted with you?" Maria suddenly blurts out as she sits up straight to look directly at Peggy.
She immediately blushed as her eyes grew big, "What? No. He was just complimenting me and—and he was just sweet. I teased him about being a smooth talker,"
"Oh," Maria sagged back to her seat, "I thought Rogers finally had the guts to flirt with you,"
She immediately jabbed Maria in the arm, "He'd never do that because he knows I'm with Fred,"
"Exactly," Maria emphasized with widened eyes, "He's a true gentleman. Not surprising,"
Peggy was quiet then as she silently agreed with her roommate. Steve was still the impeccable, gentleman she knew in high school. Realizing this, made her feel guilty even more because somehow, unconsciously, she had been comparing him to Fred and it looked like Steve was winning in her mind.
"You're meeting up with him again?" Maria suddenly asks, snapping her out of her thoughts.
"Nope," Peggy briefly answers, making Maria look at her curiously. So, she continued, "Not until Christmas. He's going to spend it with us,"
Maria quietly gawked at the brunette before she giddily looked away and tried her best not to yelp in amusement.
December 14, 2018
Carter Residence, Hampstead
"Are you sure it's okay?" Steve asked through the phone, as Peggy settled in her bed at the Hampstead, "I don't want to intrude, this is usually a family gathering,"
"Steve, you know I wouldn't be inviting you over if I knew it's frowned upon by my parents. They'd love to finally meet you and have a face for a name I keep on mentioning at home," Peggy chortles when she hears him chuckle as well.
"I guess, it's a long overdue thing,"
"It is," she agreed, smiling as she comfortably leaned on her headboard and brought her legs up on the bed, "Mum recently remembered the time you sent me flowers when we had a rift. She was confused at first about who'd send me apology flowers and assumed someone else. It was the first time, I think I told her about you,"
Steve stutters in the background, making Peggy grin even more but she doesn't tease him. She, herself, had warm cheeks as she recalls that day.
"She said she was looking forward to meeting you this Christmas," Peggy softly uttered, feeling warm and excited at the prospect of bringing Steve to her childhood home.
"Well, so do I. I can't wait to finally meet the people you cherish most,"
Peggy bites her lower lip, as she slowly slides down to lie on her bed. She stared at her ceiling as she listened to Steve's breathing, "I can't wait for Christmas,"
As she pokes on her waffles, thinking about her conversation with Steve last night, Peggy can't help the smile appear on her lips.
"You seem chirpier today. Is there any good news?"
"What?" Peggy muddlingly looked up at the man in front of her.
Fred puts down his coffee on the table and puts away the newspaper in his hand. She couldn't help but quietly groan at how stereotypical Fred sometimes acts.
"Did you receive any updates from the firms you applied to? I heard Mills & Reeve were taking four trainees this year,"
"Oh, yeah, I heard," Peggy casually nods her head, uninterested.
"So?" Fred then smiled at her, as if waiting for her to reveal a piece of exciting news.
Peggy shrugged, confused at the look her boyfriend was giving her, "So, what?"
"Well, did you get in?"
"No," Peggy quickly replies with an intonation of annoyance.
"Why not?" Fred then sat up straight as if he had some surge of determination, "Do you want me to reach out to one of my friends? His father works—"
"Fred, stop. I didn't get in because I didn't apply there," Peggy looked at the man ridiculously, as if he had lost his mind for thinking of that in the first place.
"Why ever not? It's a good firm,"
"I know," Peggy agreed, slowly sitting up straight to show more conviction, "But I don't want to work there because, like I told you, a thousand times, I want to work at the SSR Law Firm,"
"But that's quite far from Cambridge,"
"It's not far from Hampstead," Peggy countered, shrugging her shoulders as she slowly grinned at him. "Once I get accepted, I'm planning to stay here. My classes will be minimal next term, so the demand of going to Cambridge once or twice a week wouldn't be problematic for me."
"But—"
"End of discussion, Fred. That's my plan," Peggy subtly rolled her eyes at her boyfriend, focusing on her food.
As the two fell into silence, Fred finally gave up on insisting and let the topic go. They returned to a casual conversation, avoiding topics related to school or work.
"Oh, by the way, on Christmas," Fred started, making Peggy widen her eyes in realization, "I'll be heading to Dartmouth with the whole family. I won't be able to join you for the holiday,"
Peggy internally sighed in relief and showed an understanding smile, "That's fine. Until when will you be there?"
"Probably after New Year," Fred then slowly grinned, "Unless you want to come with me so you won't miss me?"
"Oh, I can't" Peggy swiftly replies, "Mum wants me to spend Christmas at home. I think we can handle a few weeks of not seeing each other,"
Fred chuckles as he nods his head, "Maybe for you but I don't think I can,"
Peggy chortles at the man's attempt to charm her, "You're ridiculous,"
December 20, 2018
Stark Art Gallery, London
Sitting concentratedly on his desk, Steve continued to type on his computer as Sharon paced around his office. It wasn't really an enclosed room that you could call an office, but that was supposed to be the idea. But Steve insisted that he wouldn't have an enclosed office because he wanted to have an open space, where his co-workers could freely approach him. Thankfully, Howard Stark didn't mind the changes in the office design.
"So, what do you think of Henderson?" Sharon asked, flipping the resume to Steve for him to see.
Steve looked up from his computer and then leaned over to try reading his brief details on the paper. He immediately remembered how his initial screening interview went.
"Uh, he seemed familiar with different art techniques and has good communication. You can consider him for a second interview,"
Sharon pleasingly smiled at him. "Okay, I trust your judgment,"
Steve quickly gave a pointed look at the blonde, who quickly laughed at his expression, "I'm just saying that I trust you. I don't think I'll be able to manage alone, recruiting an efficient team in less than three months before we officially begin the planning for the first art show,"
He sighed in acceptance, "As do I. I'm grateful that we're working on this together because this is quite a lot," he looked around his table, full of folders and documents he still had to look into, "We're basically starting from scratch,"
"I know," Sharon widens her eyes in emphasis, taking a seat on the man's desk, "I was at least thinking they had filtered it down to a few candidates and made things easier for us. I guess, it's not,"
They laughed together when suddenly they were interrupted. Allan, the front desk clerk on the fourth floor knocked on the divider and patiently waited for their attention. When Steve called on him, Allan immediately informed Sharon that one of her interviewees had arrived already.
"Great, bring her to the conference room, I'll have the interview there," Sharon then looked back at Steve and gave a soft smile, "Talk to you later, Steve. Got to work,"
"Have fun with the interview," He teased, making Sharon roll her eyes and leave the area.
When Sharon disappeared, Steve thought Allan had left as well to do what was told. But the man stood in his place and waited for him.
"Is there anything you need, Allan?"
Allan smiled amusedly at the interaction he saw, "Uh, nothing much. You two just seemed…at ease with each other,"
"Oh? Me and Sharon?" Steve then tilts his head as he thinks about it, "Well, it's our first time to work but she seems great at her job,"
Allan just grinned before he shook his head, "Anyways, Bernice called and said you have a visitor at the gallery area,"
"Oh, really?" Steve wondered but quickly stood up and headed out of his office. "I wonder who it is,"
… … … … …
Peggy and Gemma looked around the lobby and the two women were mesmerized by the glint of the chandelier. It reflected on the second floor, making the place glow.
Snapping out of her enthrallment, Gemma looked back at her best friend and curiously stared at her. She was still looking around, absorbed with all the sites available in the gallery.
"Peggy," Gemma whispered, breaking the brunette's sight-seeing, "What are we doing here? I don't think this gallery is open yet,"
Peggy smiled at her, "I know, we're just here for Steve,"
"Steve?" Gemma was stunned for a second before she questioned her, "We're meeting up with Steve?"
"No," Peggy shook, "We're surprising him for lunch,"
"Lunch?" Gemma repeated before she raised a brow at the woman, "Pegs, what are we really doing here? What happened to the 'It's a moment I probably would have to miss out,'?" she quoted.
Peggy rolls her eyes in response before turning away from her. She was annoyed, but not with her friend, but more to herself. She wouldn't admit it to herself, but, even she was uncertain why she was doing this. She said to herself that she wouldn't be doing things that would make her more confused about what she was feeling. But here she was, doing the exact opposite.
"Can't I just ask my friend for lunch?" Peggy finally spoke, turning back to her, "You know that Steve and I have been a long time virtual friends, and I'm just trying to mend the gap,"
Gemma dubiously nodded her head, "And so, you're tagging me along as your third wheeler?"
"What? No," Peggy grimaces, shaking her head, "We're all friends here, and I thought it would be nice to surprise him and spend time with him. After all, he's still new to London, and as Londoners, maybe we could tour him around,"
"Pegs—" Gemma calls as she is about to contest with her when suddenly someone calls her name as well.
The two then turn around and immediately see Steve beaming as he recognizes them as his guests.
"Hi," Steve greeted happily, and Peggy quickly leaned forward to embrace him and as if on instinct, he wrapped an arm around her too before they pulled apart. He then regarded to other brunette, "Hi, Gemma. What are you both doing here?"
"We wanted to surprise you," Peggy answers, "We were hoping we could have lunch together. Are you free?"
"Lunch?" Steve then looks down at his watch and sees it was beyond 11 AM already, "Uh, sure. I can have my early lunch,"
"Fantastic!" Peggy flashed a wide smile, earning the same from the blonde.
"How are you, Steve?" Gemma suddenly injects, finally snapping out of her surprise, "You look great,"
"Oh, thanks," Steve rubs his neck in timidity.
"You look taller than I remember," Gemma teased, making the blonde laugh.
"I guess eating more food made me grow a few inches," Steve chortles.
"I think that's great. You look—"
"Less lanky?" Steve offered, smirking at the brunette. But Peggy quickly made a disapproving tick at his comment.
"You're not lanky," Peggy said hitting him softly in the arm, "You're perfect just the way you are,"
Steve and Peggy then locked eyes with each other as they both slowly turned red on their cheeks. They were obviously having a certain mental communication that Gemma couldn't help but notice.
Quickly feeling like a third-wheeler at the moment as she had suspected, Gemma cleared her throat, disrupting their daze.
"Why don't we go for lunch?" Gemma said, bringing the two back to the reality.
"Right, yeah. I'll just get my wallet," Steve said, flushing even more as he felt embarrassed for being caught staring. He immediately turned around and headed back to the elevators.
When Steve was out of sight, Gemma turned to Peggy and crossed her arms. The brunette kept an innocent look as she tilted her head.
"I hope you know what you're doing,"
Peggy stared at her, considering the weight of her words. She then nods her head, "I know what I'm doing."
December 25, 2018
Carter Residence
The household was quite in a chaotic state as everyone in the house was prepping for the Christmas dinner. The Carters loved hosting parties and when Peggy had invited Steve over for Christmas, Amanda Carter couldn't help herself but play the part of a good hostess again.
So, as they waited for their guest to arrive, Amanda instructed Peggy and Dottie to finish preparing the potato salad and pigs in blanket, while she handled the main course, which was the roasted turkey.
"Your mother's interesting," Dottie softly comments, as her eyes follow the older Carter roaming around the kitchen with a little rattle in her steps. "I've never seen her this worked up,"
Peggy watched her mother at Dottie's remark. She sighs in defeat, "I have no idea why she's like this,"
"She knows your guest well?" Dottie questioned, raising a brow at the brunette.
Peggy shrugs her shoulder, "I've mentioned Steve a few times. I just don't know who she thinks he is,"
Dottie suddenly grinned, "Probably this is Michael's fault,"
The brunette quickly gave a deadpan look at her brother's girlfriend, "What did he tell mum?"
Dottie shrugs, "That he's a friend of Stark?" Peggy gawked and was about to retort when Dottie pointed out, "Well, it's not a lie. Rogers is quite close with Tony Stark, who is a multibillionaire and tech expert. I think Amanda finds that worth her attention,"
"Well, mum might just be disappointed that Steve is nowhere going to mention Stark like he's some medal to brandish," Peggy had a soft smile suddenly on her lips, "Steve is like that, he doesn't like using people to get them to like him. And to be honest, he doesn't need to do that. He's incredible just being himself,"
Dottie couldn't help but raise a brow at the way Peggy talked about the American, but she might question it to Michael. After all, that man seemed to be fond of him too.
… … … … …
Ding dong!
"Steven!" Michael enthusiastically greeted the blonde as soon as he swung the door open.
"Hey, Michael," Steve chuckles at the lad's energy, "Merry Christmas,"
"Happy Christmas! Come on in," Michael quickly pulled Steve inside the house and announced his presence. After taking off all of his winter clothes, Steve followed behind Michael.
Instantly, Peggy came out of the kitchen with her apron still wrapped around her waist, "Steve! You're finally here!"
"Peggy, your dress" Dottie mentioned, making the brunette look down to her attire and yelp as she dashed back to the kitchen to take off her apron.
Later on, Peggy comes back, this time more presentable to accept a guest.
"Forgive my sister, Steve, she seems to be a little out of her wits?" Michael teased, earning a glare from the woman.
"I was just helping Mum with the food," Peggy retorted to her brother before dismissing him and looking at Steve instead, "Sorry about that,"
"It's fine," Steve gleamed, feeling more at ease now given how Peggy and Michael seemed to be in high spirits. At that, he quickly showed his present to them and Michael excitedly took it as he gave his thanks.
As Michael left to show everyone Steve's gift, Peggy was left to entertain Steve.
"Merry Christmas, Peggy," Steve softly smiled at the brunette, who returned the same gesture.
"Happy Christmas to you too," Peggy then wrapped her arms around Steve's and pulled him further into the house, "I hope it wasn't too hard to get here. The snow is quite relentless tonight,"
"Thankfully, the ride going here wasn't too hard. But I think I'll need my own car soon if I want to get to places on time," Steve chuckled, knowing that he was nearly late for this dinner, "I can't always be late,"
Peggy laughed, "That's for sure. But tonight, I don't mind. After all, you caught me in my household getup despite the time,"
Steve shook his head, "Don't worry about it, you looked pretty,"
"I look pretty in an apron?" Peggy teased, making Steve realize what he said and he immediately stuttered trying to correct it. She laughed and reassuringly squeezed his hand, "I'm just teasing, Steve."
Steve sighed in defeat before he looked back at Peggy with a sincere gaze, "But seriously, you look beautiful tonight, Peggy."
The brunette reddened at his compliment, "Thank you, you look dashing tonight too,"
The two were then startled when Amanda suddenly exclaimed it was time for dinner and suddenly popped into the living room. As soon as Steve saw her, he stood up and introduced himself.
Amanda took a second to scrutinize the lean blonde man next to her daughter. He was relatively shorter than Peggy, which made her raise a brow quickly but as soon as the man introduced himself with an offered shake hand, Amanda couldn't help but note how respectful and calm the man was. Surprisingly, he piqued her curiosity to know him better.
"Shall we? Dinners ready," Amanda then gestured to the dining room.
When Steve walked past her, Amanda quickly grabbed Peggy's arm and pulled her back a little. She asked, "This is Steven Rogers?"
"Yes, Mum," Peggy then gave a stern look at her as if warning her not to say anything scrutinizing.
"Alright, just making sure," Amanda then left the brunette and went ahead to the dining room.
… … … … …
Christmas dinner went by so fast in the Carter residence, even though they had spent four hours just talking and eating. Harrison and Amanda seemed to be enthralled with Steve, who was witty and conversant about various things. They found him to be a good conversationalist, never having any boring topic to talk about.
Michael then enthusiastically mentioned to everyone about Steve's new project, which made their chatter last longer. By the end of the night, Steve had suggested to the whole family that they should come to the grand opening of the Stark Art Gallery by June. Amanda was thrilled by the proposition as Steve confirmed that there would be high profiles and celebrities coming in, given it's an event organized by the Starks.
Steve had bid them goodbye as the night got deeper, nearly midnight. Everyone cheerfully sends him off, offering their home again to spend New Year's Eve this time. Despite being too shy to accept, Steve ended up saying yes when Harrison insisted that he should come as it was an annual celebration they held, gathering friends and neighbors.
With that, Steve finally leaves the house, and Peggy sends him off. It took some time before Peggy returned and Amanda noticed it. As soon as Peggy was in view, Amanda immediately called on her and invited her to join them in finishing the bottle that Steve had brought.
Peggy raised a brow, "Is this some sort of conversation wherein you'll give your feedback about Steve? Because if it is, I don't want to hear it,"
"What?" Amanda bafflingly looked at her daughter before she giggled.
'Obviously,' Peggy thought to herself as she looked at her mother who was getting a little drunk.
"You're so ridiculous, Margaret," Amanda said with a wave of her hand, "We're just inviting you for a drink. Have a drink with your parents. Don't you think that is progressive of us?"
Peggy groans as she rolls her eyes, "Well, it's quite overdue."
As soon as she took her seat, Michael handed her a glass of wine as he tried to keep his grin small. The woman endlessly glared at him every time he gushed over Steve. He was doing it to slightly annoy Peggy. But half of his gushing was just really a moment of him being proud of the lad.
"I don't remember you telling us the story of how you met Steve," Harrison curiously mentions, breaking the growing silence.
"Oh, through letters," Michael interjected, his grin growing bigger by the second, "It's an activity in their school that they participated in. Actually, they shouldn't have encountered each other in the first place," Michael looked at his parents as if he was telling a fable story and his parents were engrossed with his tale, "But somehow, miraculously, their letters reached them," he then glanced at Peggy and smirked at her, as if telepathically reiterating to her how this could be fate.
"Really? Now, that is what you call fate," Harrison said out loud, looking at his wife, who then hummed in agreement.
"I concur, Dad," Michael then gave a pointed look at Peggy, "It's something that doesn't usually happen unless it's meant to happen for a person,"
"Did you ever date him, Margaret?" Amanda questioned, making Peggy sputter the wine she was drinking.
Her eyes were big as she gawked at her mother, "No, mum. Steve and I are just friends—"
Michael quickly snorts at her reply, causing Peggy to whip her eyes to him and glare.
"He's my best friend but he and I never delved into that prospect," Peggy continues as she looks back at her mother.
"Is that so?" Amanda hummed in wonder, "I would have thought he was the reason why you and Freddy never got together sooner,"
Peggy internally rolls her eyes at her mother's comment, "The timeline of my relationship with Fred has nothing to do with Steve. I just wasn't really into Fred back in high school—"
"Because of a certain Brooklyn boy," Michael whispered to his glass before he took a long swig. No one else took notice of it besides Peggy and Dottie, who was sniggering next to the man.
Peggy glared at her brother for the nth time and having enough of her brother's antics, she suddenly kicked his shin under the table, causing the man to splutter his drink.
"Serves you right," Peggy muttered, smirking as Michael made a mess of himself.
Amanda and Dottie quickly stood up to grab a dish towel to help the lad, leaving him and Peggy with their father, who seemed unfazed by the accident.
"You know, dear," Harrison suddenly started, grabbing Peggy's attention, "I would not have opposed if Steve was your boyfriend back in high school,"
Peggy turned a light shade of red at her father's comment, surprised that her father had understood Michael's innuendos. But before she could savor the words of her father, Amanda quickly added her comment.
"Well, maybe for you, Harrison. Steve's still an American," Amanda said the last word with a fake American accent, before shivering to display her distaste.
Peggy frowns at that.
December 31, 2018Carter Residence
9:28 PM
Ding dong!
"Mr. and Mrs. Jarvis!" Peggy exclaims as soon as she swings the door open. Loud Christmas music blared, making the newly arrived guests jump at the sudden loudness. "Come on in!"
"Happy New Year, Ms. Peggy," Ana Jarvis greets, as she steps inside the house, and embraces the girl quickly, "Thank you for inviting us,"
"Of course! The more the merrier," Peggy chortles along with the woman, "Happy New Year, Mr. Jarvis," she adds, as Edwin steps up behind his wife.
"Happy New Year, Ms. Carter," Jarvis bows his head quickly before handing over a tray, "Ana made you her infamous Dobos torte,"
"Oh, thank you!" Peggy accepts the tray and sidesteps, "That is very sweet of you. Please, join us. Everyone's mostly in the backyard, they are starting to dance I think," she then chortles at a stunned face of Edwin. "Where's Steve?"
"Oh—" Ana whips around to search when the blonde finally steps up, "There he is,"
Peggy looks at the doorway and she softly smiles as she sees Steve slowly approach them, eyes on her.
"Sorry, I had to get these sorted a while back," Steve said, raising the bag in his hand, "Happy New Year, Peggy,"
"Happy New Year, Steve. Come on in," Peggy then grabbed Steve's sleeves and tugged him in, "Why don't you guys, head on, Steve and I will just go to the kitchen," she said, showing the tray in her hand.
The couple then nodded their head and went further into the house, meeting Michael halfway. Peggy quickly signed to her brother to take their guests while she and Steve turned towards the kitchen.
The place was a little messy. Lots of food and drinks were on the table, and other guests were there hanging around as well, making conversations. But none of them paid much attention to them as she and Steve entered to place the food among the others.
"Have you eaten yet?" Peggy asks as she puts down the tray around the other food they prepared.
"Yeah, Mr. and Mrs. Jarvis made a sumptuous meal for all of us before heading here," Steve then looked around and saw another set of people coming in with drinks in their hands. "How about you?"
"Oh, I've eaten here and there," Peggy glanced at the other guests and smiled before looking back at Steve, "It's quite crowded here, do you want to go upstairs?"
Steve turned a little red at the suggestion but nodded his head anyway, "Sure, if you're comfortable,"
Peggy grins wide, "Oh, let me show you my mini museum," she then takes Steve's hand and walks out of the kitchen. Steve chortles at Peggy's excitement as he swiftly avoids bumping into others.
Soon enough, Peggy and Steve reached the stairs, and they quickly slipped into her room as more guests loitered around.
Despite the closed door, loud music and people's chattering were still heard, although muffled at least. The house was so alive with guests that are all in a festive mood. Doing the countdown was still hours away and people didn't mind waiting by engaging in various activities courtesy of the host. On most occasions like this, Peggy truly enjoyed it. Her parents were excellent hosts, keeping everyone occupied during these events. She would usually mingle around too, enjoying the night with her friends.
When Peggy told her friends that Steve would be coming over for New Year's countdown party, Gemma and Alice instantly said they'd come to meet the lad again. The two girls even came early to ensure that Peggy wouldn't keep the blonde away. But for some reason, Peggy wanted to spend the night with him only.
She rationalizes to herself that this is her pent-up longing with Steve and somehow wants to harbor the lad to herself, even for a few hours before letting others steal his attention away again.
"Tada," Peggy chimed as she flicked the lights on.
Steve huffs an amused laugh at the shelf Peggy presented in her room. She quickly takes his hand and pulls him closer to the shelf where all the trinkets Steve gave her years ago were displayed. Small sketches and digital art that Steve made were all framed and displayed on one side.
"You kept it all," Steve muttered in amazement.
"Of course, why wouldn't I?" Peggy said, tilting her head as if baffled that Steve would even think like that.
"Well, not all of them were good," Steve then points at one sketch he remembers making back in high school, "Just look at this. It's not even proportioned,"
Peggy scoffs, "Can you please stop criticizing the work of my favorite artist?"
Steve widely eyed the brunette at her comment. He knew she was teasing, but realizing how much Peggy was rooting for him made him feel warm in his guts and it quickly transpired in his cheeks.
Peggy softly smiles at him before looking back at the sketch he was pointing at, "The fact that you made that just for me, makes me feel warm and—fuzzy," she then chortles as she feels inarticulate with her feelings, "I love everything that you make for me. I feel special, all the time when you give me pieces like this."
She looked back at him and Steve's blue eyes were on her, making her heart thump a little harder, "Because—you don't have to and…" she trailed off as her thoughts began to spiral at the idea that Steve could have someone special that wasn't her.
"And?" Steve asks, and suddenly he squeezes her hand, making Peggy aware that their hands were intertwined, just like two years ago.
Suddenly, a surge of emotions resurfaces. A feeling that she thought she felt the same with Fred. But it was completely different. These feelings she was having at the moment were more intense and exhilarating. All of a sudden, she wasn't sure if she could handle herself well.
"Uh-um…" Peggy clears her throat, trying to get a grip on her thoughts. She forced herself to let go of Steve's hand and quickly wrapped her arms around her torso to keep it from reaching out to him again, "What were we talking about?" she then laughed to mask and ignore Steve's confused look.
She then stepped away from the shelf and pulled her computer chair to offer to the blonde.
"So, what's in the bag?" Peggy cringes at her obvious trick of changing the topic.
When Steve turned around to look back at her, Peggy immediately pointed at the bag in his hand.
"You said you had to sort it out a while back?" Peggy then pushes the chair towards the blonde and he takes the offer.
After placing the bag on the chair, Steve quickly opened the bag and pulled out some gifts.
"This is for Gemma and Alice," he showed to Peggy, who gasped in surprise, "They're here, right?"
Peggy nods as she takes the gifts and places them on her work table, "They are somewhere around the house. Probably too engaged in the games mum is making them participate,"
They both chortle for a moment before Steve pulls out another gift, "And this is for you,"
Peggy stared astonishedly at the blonde, with her jaw ajarred a little, "But you gave us gifts already during Christmas. What's this for?"
Steve shrugged, "Well, it's sort of…a personalized gift for you?" he then chuckled when Peggy looked at him even more flabbergasted, "It's something you can use,"
The box in Peggy's hand was quite heavy and she had a good guess that the item inside was fragile. So, slowly she placed the box on the table and looked at Steve to seek his approval to open it before him.
"Go ahead, if you want to open it. I'll brace myself for a little embarrassment," Steve then rubs his neck in nervousness as Peggy chortles.
"Why would you be embarrassed?" Peggy questioned as she eagerly yet gently opened the gift. As soon as she lifts the lid off, she sees a ceramic mug sitting at the bottom of the box.
She gently pulled it out and immediately laughed when she saw the design.
"Do as Peggy says." Peggy read out loud and then presented it to Steve, who was grinning wide while blushing intensely.
Steve shrugs again, trying to ignore how flustered he felt, "Well, I'd follow your order because you're mostly right all the time,"
Peggy snorts, chuckling as she looks away. She inspected the mug once more and saw it more clearly. The mug was bigger than usual, making her remember the time she complained to him that she couldn't find a mug that was large enough to hold as much coffee as she needed to function. The mug was hand-painted as well. The body of the mug was a velvet-like red, almost the same shade as her favorite lipstick. The writing on her mug was in white paint, while a similar silhouette of her profile was on the other side of the mug, painted in blue with white lining to make it stand out.
"You made this for me?" Peggy whispered, slowly looking back at Steve.
Seeing the soft look on Peggy's face made Steve's heart patter once again. He quickly shoved his hands into his pocket when they started shaking, then nodded his head, "I don't want to break the tradition of making something just for you on special occasions like this,"
Without words and feeling overwhelmed, Peggy suddenly walks up to Steve, slips her arms around his waist, and hugs him tight.
He was taken aback at the gesture, leaving his arms wide open and unsure whether to wrap his arms around the brunette too. It wasn't the first time Peggy hugged him, but for some reason, he doubted himself. He thought that if he wrapped his arms around her just like before, he might not let go this time. And it would be hard to explain to her why.
When Peggy pulled back, keeping her arms around his waist loosely, she softly smiled at him and spontaneously kissed his cheek, "Happy New Year, Steve."
… … … … …
After some time, when someone knocked on Peggy's door and was looking for her, they decided to join the rest of the guests.
As soon as Peggy showed Steve to her parents, Harrison quickly pulled the blonde to join the next game they were having. Peggy couldn't help but roll her eyes at her father's enthusiasm for her friend as she watched them head out to the backyard.
After helping her mother refill the food and drinks, Peggy saw Gemma and Alice and immediately told them about Steve's gifts for them. The three girls then settle on the backyard porch, watching the players, including Steve, play some game that Harrison mastered.
It was certainly cold but with her mother's insistence to put up a large tent in their backyard and set up a bonfire at the middle, it had become quite cozy. Thankfully enough, it wasn't snowing to put off the fire. There was a large hole in the middle of the tent wherein it could let out the smoke.
Many of the guests were scattered around the bonfire, enjoying the warmth while waiting for the time to reach midnight. The plan was to drop the tent cover on top when the countdown was close.
As Peggy, Gemma, and Alice sat by the sideline, the three girls engaged in some small talk. Peggy seemed to stir the conversation away about Steve as she didn't want to delve into what she had been doing, what was happening lately, and her erratic emotions that were making her turmoiled inside. Gemma and Alice knew better than to push her buttons, especially when they recognized her thinking face. When the game ended, Steve walked up to them and settled beside Peggy, joining their conversation.
Hours passed by and soon they were down to the last 45 minutes before midnight. Gemma and Alice scarce themselves and search for their partners, giving Peggy and Steve some privacy. He noticed what they did, but didn't make any remarks because he secretly felt grateful for it.
He and Peggy continued to talk about all sorts of things, and then he brought up the SSR Law firm.
"By the way, how's your application with SSR?" Steve asked taking a sip of the Guinness that Michael handed him moments ago, "Have they given a response already?"
Peggy sighed in beat, "That's the thing, I don't know if I would feel relieved about their radio silence. It's like, it's good that they haven't rejected me yet, but at the same time, it makes me wonder if they had just opted not to tell me that I didn't get in,"
Steve thumped her on her shoulder, "Hey, maybe it's just taking quite longer because it's close to a holiday. You never know, maybe they'll email you as soon as they get back to work,"
"Oh, Steve the agony of waiting," Peggy rests her head on his shoulder, "Maybe I should look into other firms or nonprofit organizations,"
"And give up on your dream?" Steve then leaned his head forward to look at Peggy in the eyes, "I don't think that is Peggy like,"
She lifts her head and turns to face him. She stared at him for some time before she asked, "Why do you believe in me so much?"
"Because you believe in me as much, maybe even more, which makes me feel grateful to have you in my life,"
Peggy could feel her cheeks get warmer, which she knew was not because of the bonfire. Lucky enough for her, her face glowed red already. It would have been more embarrassing if he saw it turn red in real time.
"As do I," Peggy whispered before turning away from him again. She scooted closer to him and placed her head back on his shoulder. "How about you Steve? What's your plan after finishing the art show in June?"
Steve hummed in thought while keeping his eyes on the bonfire, "I want to make my own art again. I mean, I am making some in my spare time, but I think I want to give more focus on that. I'll start doing my art collections until I can fill up a gallery for a show,"
Peggy lifted her head abruptly and beamed at the blonde, "I'd love to see that happen. I'd be the first in line for your art show because that's what an ultimate fan would do,"
Steve and Peggy chuckle together before they settle into a comfortable silence again. Just like before, Peggy rested her head on Steve's shoulder and somehow, she could feel him place his arm behind her, allowing herself to be tucked into his side.
They watched the bonfire, and soon enough, the tent cover over their head was being pulled back, allowing them to see the glittering night sky. Everyone gasped and cheered as they realized that midnight was getting close.
While getting lost in the comfort that she was feeling, Steve suddenly asked her a question that brought her out of her reverie.
"How are you and Fred doing? You haven't mentioned him since I got here,"
Peggy slowly sits up and looks at Steve, and a sudden feeling of guilt blossoms. "Um, we're good. He's in Dartmouth with his family. We'll probably see each other when we get back to Cambridge,"
Steve just nods his head, keeping his eyes on the fire, "Glad to hear that. I was starting to wonder if you both had a fight and you didn't feel like talking about him,"
"Oh, no. We didn't fight," Peggy then bit her lips as she realized her reason for not having Fred in her mind recently. She didn't want to let the truth out. Before she could say anything, Steve added another comment.
"I guess it's nice to have someone special. Someone you see to be part of your life even in the future," Steve then looked at Peggy, "Have you come to that point already? With Fred?"
Peggy swallowed down the growing knot in her throat. She then shook her head furiously, "Like I told you before, I'm not in that mindset yet,"
Steve inclined his head in understanding before looking away, "Sorry, I just thought that maybe you were getting close to that point,"
"Why do you keep insisting that I'd get there?" Peggy then grumbles looking away from him, crossing her arms in defiance, "Just because I'm with Fred and he reiterates to me almost every day that he wants to build a future with me, doesn't mean I have to force myself to get there fast,"
"I know, and you don't have to force yourself to get there, yet" Steve sneaks a glance at Peggy, "But isn't that the reason why people stay in a relationship? Because they see a future with each other, hoping to be each other's endgame?"
Peggy finally met his gaze and immediately could feel the building-up frustration she was having with her feelings. She also held that belief but for some reason, she couldn't uphold that belief when it's about her and Fred.
Getting frustrated and emotional, Peggy suddenly stood up and muttered that she'd be back after doing some short errand. Rushing inside, Peggy locked herself in her room and paced.
Her heart was pounding, her skin prickling in anticipation as she ruminated on how she likes to be held close by Steve or how she easily gets lost in his eyes. She feels skittish just thinking about Steve's face when he smiles, or how his dimple would be obvious, and she'd have that need to poke it with her finger.
Peggy starts to fiddle with her hand, and quickly she recalls how she loves holding Steve's hand. It was bony and yet firm and warm in her grasp. She loves how his hand fits well with hers and the way he brushes his thumb on the back of her hand to reassure her in some way.
Somehow with all those rushing thoughts, Peggy starts to have short breaths, stopping her from pacing. She clutched her thumping chest and slowly realized that she never felt this way with Fred. Not once did she feel overwhelmed with affection for him, making her think that maybe she was just not expressive at all. But realizing the difference she felt with Steve, made the situation more complicated.
Ting ting!
Peggy's attention gets diverted as she hears her laptop chime with a new email. Slowly, she approached her computer and opened her email.
… … … … …
"Steve!" Peggy bellows as she runs down the stairs and expertly maneuvers away from other guests that were on her blocking her. When she pushed the back door open, she called to him again, and Steve quickly stood up in alarm.
People close by looked at her alarmed as well, but with the way Peggy was grinning, they immediately brushed it off and carried on.
"Peggy, what's wrong?" Steve asked in worry, rushing to get to her.
As they stood in the middle of the porch, Peggy flashed her phone to him, "Steve, you're right! Look!"
Steve made a quick scan and saw the word 'congratulations' before she pulled it away. "I got accepted!" She exclaimed.
He was confused for a second before he realized what she meant and immediately hollered in excitement too, "You did?!"
"Yes!" Peggy shouted and they started jumping around while holding each other.
People around them took notice of their excitement, making them laugh at their antics. But soon enough someone shouted that it was one minute away before midnight. They started filling out the backyard, making Steve and Peggy stumble a little.
When it cleared out for them, Steve held her arms and grinned, "Pegs! I'm so happy for you!"
Feeling ecstatic, she quickly pulled him for a hug. "I can't believe that I got accepted at the SSR, Steve," She mumbled over his neck as she tightened her arms around his shoulders.
Somehow, with the excitement they were feeling, Steve allowed himself to cherish the moment and wrapped his arms around her waist. He then pulled her closer to his chest when she ducked her head under his jaw. He could feel Peggy trembling in elation.
They didn't pull away immediately as they felt content in each other's arms. But when they heard people start counting from 20, they slowly pulled apart.
But before they could put enough distance between them, they quickly stopped moving away only a few inches apart between their faces. Their breath was merging, and their eyes were locked on each other as if trying to read each other's mind.
Peggy pulled her arms back a little to drape them loosely on his shoulder. She then ran her fingers through Steve's short hair at the nape of his neck, feeling him shiver at her ministration. With that, she felt his hands run up her torso, holding her close by her ribs.
She drew a sharp breath, feeling exhilarated with the way Steve intimately held her. Despite being unsure of what they were doing, none of them broke their gaze on each other.
"Happy New Year!" everyone suddenly bellows and erupts to loud cheering.
When they hear that, Peggy tilts her head and leans down to kiss Steve fervently. She gasped as she felt Steve return the kiss with the same enthusiasm, making her even more excited. She threaded her fingers further in his hair, slightly pulling the ends of it as she brushed her tongue on his lower lip. At that, he cupped her face in his hands and kissed her more intimately. Soon, Peggy opened her mouth for him, allowing him to slip his tongue and taste every inch of her.
Their kiss was a little sloppy, but the heated moans they were making were enough to distract them and relish how their lips interweaved each other, making them lose their breath.
Soon enough, when they felt their chest constrict for air, they gradually pulled away but only mere inches. Their eyes remained closed, lips ajar, and slightly swollen.
Peggy felt her body buzzing and hot, inside and out. She hesitates to open her eyes only to realize it was just a dream. So, she chooses to enjoy the moment without having to think further. She runs her fingers, scraping on his scalp and hears Steve grunt in appreciation.
Leisurely, when they felt that they had marginally calmed down, they opened their eyes and immediately saw each other's eyes.
Leaning their forehead together, Steve and Peggy broke into a large smile.
To be continued…