Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

JG050203. Those were your identification numbers. You crash landed onto earth, setting half the city into a blackout, triggering a response from the government. To their surprise it was a baby wrapped in a blanket in the middle of the crater. It didn’t take long for a whole new department to be established to take over your care.

A DNA profile was created and it confirmed a couple things, you were indeed a mutant, plus your mother was a long time missing member of the X-Men. Last time anyone saw Jean Grey, she went full Phoenix and disappeared off earth into some corner of the galaxy.

Now here you were. In layman’s terms you were a threat if treated by the wrong hands. A team of scientists were assigned to help raise you until your powers matured.

One of them became attached to you. Her name was Grace. You saw her as your mom when were you old enough to remember things. She didn’t call you by your ID numbers, she gave you a nickname: Sunflower. You were her special sunflower as they reminded her of your explosive entrance into the world.

She knew the risks of taking this job but she couldn’t help but to feel attached to you. Grace couldn’t have a family of her own and you had no mother. It was a match made in heaven.

“Tomorrow is a big day.” She was tucking you into bed.

“Why?” You whispered to her.

“Because we’re gonna test your powers and see how much you’ve grown. I know you can move things around like the cookie you stole from the jar.” She had caught onto you.

“It was good.” You smiled happily.

She kissed your forehead. “I love you, my little sunflower.”

“I love you too mama.” You really did love her so much.

The next morning, Grace got you ready for the day just like any other day. She put you in the car and drove you the usual way to the bigger building.

You walked in hand in hand with your handler only to see new people in the room.

“What is this?” Grace looked at Valentina.

“You’re under new management.” She looked at you. “Aren’t you adorable.” She smiled.

You could see right through her, her thoughts held nothing good and you held onto Grace’s leg.

“We agreed until she was old enough! It’s too soon.” She tried to vouch for you.

“Plans change.”

“Wait!” You stood up to her. “Don’t hurt my mama. Please.”

“Your mama?” This surprised Valentina immensely and she could use this to her advantage. “She won’t get hurt unless you do exactly what we tell you.”

“Ok.” You looked her in the eyes, that smile on her face was just a front.

Grace was kept safe for now and as you grew up, so did your powers. It wasn’t easy going through all this but you did it for your mother.

You’ve impressed Valentina so much that you didn’t even feel the metaphorical shackle being placed on you. During one of your demonstrations she showed up to see what you could do.

The obstacle course designed for you was absolutely wrecked as you ran through it, dodging bullets left and right, shielding yourself, and even flying. You looked at her through the glass, speaking into her mind.

“Are you impressed, Miss de Fontaine.”

“I am.” She looked at Grace. “Your girl is powerful and perfect for our next project.”

“Next project?” Grace was getting anxious and rightfully so.

“The next phase would be taken up by another team so we’re moving her.” She snapped her fingers. “Let’s pack it up people!”

“You’re not taking her from me,” Grace saw the shield doors closing on the obstacle course.

“Grace honey, you’ve violated your contract so long ago and now with these changes.” She had one of her guys train a gun on her. “I won’t tolerate anymore insubordination from you.”

“Mama!!” You were banging on the glass but when your emotions ran high, your powers didn’t respond quick enough. “MAMA!!”

Bang.

They kept you sedated a lot of the time. If you were awake for too long you’d try to fight your way out until you were dragged back into your cage.

One day you were in the United States and the next you were in another country you’ve never heard of until now. Malaysia. In your induced slumbers you’d dream of your mama Grace. You’d say you were sorry that you couldn’t save her. You’d blame yourself that you weren’t strong enough to get through the barriers to get to her in time.

She was already dead by the time you busted through the wall like a soda can. They shot you in the head as a fail safe only to realize that your wounds healed slowly, the bullet pushing its way out.

Another surprising development.

During one of your wakeful days, you met a guy named Robert. He was very skittish. A little bit of your blood entered him mixed with whatever cocktail they whipped up in the lab.

You could hear his thoughts, feel his emotions, he was lost like you. Having no one else in his life to count on.

“What’s your name?” He looked at you.

“JG050203.” You responded automatically.

“That’s a mouthful…” He chuckled a little.

“My mom called me Sunflower. A nickname since I never got a real name.” You spoke into his mind.

He felt you inside his head, it was weird but it didn’t phase him because he went through so much already. “I just heard you…”

“What’s your name?” You thought he was cute, very easy on the eyes.

“Bob.” He thought you were way out of his league, a pretty girl talking to him? A royal fuck up like him?

“Bob. That’s nice.” You smiled.

That bit of kindness had you attached to Bob. Just a couple of lab rats sticking close together until the tests were showing results.

Bob turned two scientists into shadows. Despite the alarm bells going off, you went to him.

“Don’t come any closer…or you’ll end up like them.” He didn’t look at you.

“Bobby.” You came up to him slowly before touching his shoulder. “Look at me.”

He looked at you but it wasn’t your Bob. It was something else. He grabbed your hand and the room started to melt away scarily.

The dark entity looked at you. “What are you?”

You were in your true form, your cosmic self shining brightly against the darkness.

“I don’t know.” You weren’t exactly told what you were but in passing you heard one word that tied it all together: Phoenix.

You levitated off the ground to touch your hand to his face. “The people in the lab say Phoenix.”

“I’m called the Void.” You felt warm to him. Not like the cold he was use to. Your flames weren’t hurting him either. “I’ve always been here, watching you.”

“I didn’t know about you.” You spoke gently. “Let go.” You pressed your forehead against his. “Let go it’s ok.”

“Stay…” He didn’t want to go back in yet.

“You’ll still see me.” You assured him.

The darkness melted away slowly and you two were back in the lab, it was trashed. Bob looked at you with tears streaming down his face. “I’m sorry…”

“For what Bob?” You instinctively brought him into your arms. You comforted him like your mom would with you after a very hard day.

“Aren’t you scared of me?” He sniffled. “He didn’t hurt you right?”

“No…I thought you’d be scared of me.” You stroked his back, soothing him and giving off a calming energy. “He didn’t hurt me I promise.”

The footage was shown to Valentina and you were given a bit of freedom. No more being sedated for long periods of time. You two were now attached by a tether that couldn’t be broken.

In the room you two shared, you were sitting on the floor with him, his head in your lap as you were playing with his hair.

“So you came from space?” He was relaxed.

“Yep. I don’t know who my birth mom is because it’s been deemed classified. The woman I knew as my mom is dead because of me.”

“I’m sorry…” He felt your hand touch his cheek.

“I want to get stronger to protect those I love.” You sighed. “But I want to leave here.”

“Why? We get three square meals a day, a roof over our heads, we’re protected from the outside world.”

“What’s on the outside?” You’ve never been there long enough, you always lived in a bunker.

“Nothing good. But in here we have each other.” He felt his heart beating faster.

“I remember a movie my mama put on, it had a romantic scene where the guy and girl were on a beach looking at each other during a sunset.”

“The beach is nice…maybe if it’s safe I can take you to a beach.” He sat up, gently touching your face.

“Bobby.” You froze for a moment, the space between you closing and in the silence, you shared your first kiss. You smiled against his lips and pulled away. “Just like in the movies…”

“Yeah.” He chuckled. “Just like in the movies.” He kissed you again.

“I can protect you.” You vowed to him.

“I can do that for you too if you let me.” He held your hand.

“Ok.” You nodded, giving him another kiss. You liked kissing him because it made heart warm plus you liked listening to his thoughts run a mile a minute.

Before it was lights out, you were lying on his bed. “So what name would you give me?”

“You looked like the sun…there’s a drink back home called Sunny D.” He held your hand, liking how gentle this moment was.

“Sunny? I like it. I don’t think I’d let anyone else call me sunflower again. I give you permission though because it sounds nice coming from you.” You looked into his eyes.

“Sunny. Sun spot, solar flare,” he was listing off things that you reminded him of. “Aurora Borealis.”

“And you’re my Bob. Rob, Robbie, Bobby, Robert.” You listed his name in various forms.

“Those all sound so nice coming from you.” He felt safe in your hands.

You two spent the night in his bed, he was curled up next to you with an arm draped over you. Your hand was holding his to ensure he wouldn’t have a nightmare. Nobody knew this would be your last moments of peace before the room flooded with a knock out gas, you and Bob were placed into containers and sealed away like furniture in a storage unit.

As a last ditch effort, Bob’s memory was scrambled while yours remained intact.

The plug on Project Sentry was pulled as was Project Phoenix.

Bob was the one who woke up first, the last thing he remembered was being in bed with…with…he knows it was a woman.

“Who are you?” Ava looked at him, even more confused.

“I’m Bob.” He said nervously.

“How did you get here, Bob.” Walker asked.

“I-I dunno…I was in a room or something with a woman in my bed then I wake up here in my pajamas.” He looked at the boxes.

“There was someone else with you?” Ava was watching his eyes.

“I think so…yes!” He remembered that much of you. He walked around carefully, moving boxes of papers around until he found it.

A paper that had a funky symbol of bird fell at Walker’s feet. “What’s Project Phoenix?”

“No idea.” Yelena replied until she found a seal box, kicking it to see if it would be triggered.

It hissed open and you were lying there like sleeping beauty. “Oh my God…” she checked your pulse, it was slow but you were alive.

You opened your eyes opened slowly, focusing on the blonde haired girl staring at you. “…who are you?”

“I’m Yelena.” She watched you sit up, your eyes adjusting but you immediately felt threatened by the weapons in their hands.

“Easy now, take it easy.” Walker stepped forward.

“What’s your name?” Ava asked as she lowered her guns.

“JG050203.” You eyed them all, quickly gauging their strength from their weaponry. You could fight your way out if need be.

“Do you remember how you got here?” Yelena had Walker stand down.

“I was asleep in bed with…Bob?” You saw him standing there in the corner. “Bobby!” You stumbled to your feet, feeling so happy that he was ok.

Bob was just as surprised when you gave him a hug. “Hi?”

“It’s me remember?” You looked up at him.

He looked at you and your face scratched at the back of his mind. “I think I do…a lot of things are a blank.”

You had a hunch that his memory was tampered with but you remembered everything. “It’s ok…we can get out now.”

“I’m sorry to break this reunion up but we can’t get out, we’re stuck in this shredder.” Walker was looking around the room for a way out but everything seemed to be shut tight.

The room started getting warm and that was setting off alarm bells.

“It’s an incinerator.” Ava put it together.

You stayed close to Bob while the trio of agents figured a way out for Ava to get through the door. The clock was ticking and it was getting hotter.

With a few seconds left the doors opened before the flames engulfed the room, the force of the blast sending everyone out.

“Is everyone alright?” Walker was assessing the damage. He extended his hand to you.

You grabbed his hand to stand up. “Thank you…uh what’s your name?”

“John Walker. A simple name than whatever string of code you got saddled up with.”

“Well that’s what happens when you grow up in a lab, only person who gave me a name was a kind scientist but it doesn’t sound right when anyone else says it.” You looked around. “But Bob calls me Sunny, like the orange drink.”

“Sunny D?” He stifled his laughter.

“You grew up in a lab too?” Ava was surprised but also saddened by that fact.

“Yep, crash landed on earth as a baby but I’m not an alien.” You looked at her.

“So you’re a mutant?” It was Yelena’s turn.

“Yes. I was a part of a top secret project, my blood was synthesized and mixed with whatever they were whipping up in a lab in Malaysia. I fell asleep next to Bob and woke up in this basement.”

“So you and Bobby here are…together?” John saw him blushing a bit.

“It’s…complicated.” You never really had a chance to hash that part with him. “How do we get out?”

“We’re a mile underground and the only thing is this elevator shaft.” John looked upward. “Any of us know how to fly?”

You looked around the room and saw everyone shaking their heads. You weren’t going to volunteer just yet.

“Lemme try something.” John jumped really high, everyone staring upwards only to see him coming down fast.

With quick thinking, you cushioned his fall. “Did you see anything?”

“Just a door but I couldn’t reach it, uh thanks for not letting me splat.” John stood back up. “Anyone else have any ideas?”

“Well…” Bob had one idea. “We can walk up and we’ll throw a rope down for you.” He looked at you.

“I can wait down here.” You nodded.

“You sure?” Yelena didn’t like the idea of leaving someone behind.

“I sense your hesitation but I know you’ll come back for me.” You gave her a small smile.

“Ok.” The four of them locked arms and started the climb upwards, being careful not to fuck it up.

“In case we fall, we have a safety net below.” John was pushing through it.

“Less talking, more walking!” Ava tried to stay focused.

Bob was trying not to look down. “Ughh…” Heights were never his thing. “Oh no.”

“What? What oh no?!” John stopped.

“I-I have to sneeze. Cucumber! Cucumber.” His nose was itching.

“Cucumber! Cucumber!!” The three of them were shouting at him and in the moment of losing their grips, John’s quick thinking grabbed one of Yelena’s batons to get the doors.

Ava was able to stab the wall and stop, letting Yelena grip onto her. Poor Bob was free falling but his fall was stopped by you catching him.

“You can fly?!” Ava was pissed.

“I didn’t think I could still do it…sorry.” You floated upwards with Bob, putting him safely on the floor before going after the girls.

“Your girlfriend’s pretty talented Bobby.” John complimented.

“Thanks?” Bob felt good about that. “Also thank you for saving me.” He gave you a small smile.

“Always Bob.” You smiled back at him.

“We have company outside.” Ava saw the tactical teams outside the main door.

“How good are you at fighting?” Yelena asked you.

“I know how to handle men with guns. I’ve been trained for these situations.”

“Then you stay by my side and we cover Bob.” She felt she could trust you as an ally now.

“I can help.” Bob wanted to be useful.

“Just stay close ok? I promised to protect you.” You put your hand to his chest.

He only nodded and once the tentative plan was in place, you two followed Yelena to the power station.

Of course nothing goes to plan so it was time to improvise. You covered her blindside, using your training to its fullest to protect, you couldn’t protect your mother but you could protect others around you now.

When the strike team was taken out, John came out from the shadows even after almost being shot by Yelena. “We got more incoming, we have to go now.”

“Put these on.” You started stripping an agent of their tactical gear.

“What about you?” Bob started getting dressed.

“I promise I’ll be right behind you.” You nodded.

John and Yelena carried Bob as if he was wounded, you covered their backsides.

“Where’s Ava with the getaway truck?” John looked around, trying to remain calm but luckily Ava beeped the horn.

“Get in!” She made herself solid.

You went into the back with Bob, you were almost home free. Almost there!

John started driving away until he was stopped by another officer. “We’ve been ordered to take the wounded to the nearest hospital!”

“We already have a medical tent set up just northwest of here.” The officer wasn’t buying it.

Bob looked at you. “I can help.”

“No!” You whisper yelled at him.

He stripped off the gear and jumped out the back, shooting off a rifle. “Hey! Hey!”

“Bob no!” You chased after him.

The commotion drew away the attention to Bob who was shooting off until it ran out of bullets. The firing squad was set and ready.

“Bob!” You were about to project a shield but he put you behind him, taking all the heavy fire.

Valentina saw who it was and demanded the they ceased firing. “STOP!!”

To everyone’s horror, including Ava, Yelena, and John. Bob wasn’t hurt. The bullets merely shredded his clothes and his eyes changed colors slowly.

He was levitating before he took off into the night sky like a missile.

You took off after him, afraid he was going to hurt himself.

John could only step on the gas to get away, hopefully wherever Bob would land, they could get you guys.

Bob stopped short of leaving earth’s atmosphere when he saw you near him. He started falling back to earth with you chasing him.

You grabbed onto him, protecting his head all while bracing for impact. You two hit the side of the mountain, knocking you both unconscious.

Valentina was able to round up troops yet again to pick you both up from the impressive crater. Funny enough it reminded her of how you were first found in the first place.

Bob was placed in a box for transportation and you were placed on a gurney. Slowly your wounds were healing their eyes widening in shock, your bones snapping back into place, your skin closing.

The tower was now fully operational and your room was set up so you’d have a stable environment, next door to your room was Bob. At Valentina’s order, she said you two couldn’t be far away from each other.

While you were still unconscious, she had a couple presents brought to her specifically for you. To help smooth over negotiations.

She was in your room as you were waking up. “There’s my special girl.”

“Where’s Bob?” You looked around the room.

“He’s next door and he’s ok, just sleeping off the drugs. I know you and I have some bad blood between us and I want to mend that.” She spoke a little bit of sincerity.

“How? You killed my mom.” You eyed her.

“I have a couple of gifts for you.” She handed you a bag and a small box.

You opened the bag first and it was a worn blanket. “Is this what I was found in?”

“Yep. A pretty sturdy blanket if you ask me. Now open the box.” She kept watching you.

You opened the box and it was a two sided picture frame. One side had your mother Grace and the other was a woman you’ve never seen before. “Who is she?”

“That’s your biological mother, her name was Jean Grey. She was a very powerful being but now you’re here.” She was glad you liked your presents.

“What do you want from me? There’s always a catch.” You eyed her.

“I know how attached you are to Bob so I need you to comply or I’d hate to see this love story get cut short. Plus the press would love to see two heroes in love.”

“And if I don’t?”

“Then you’d spend your days comatose while rotting in a box.”

You didn’t want to go back to sleep, not now and not ever. You sighed. “Fine…”

“Great! Now let’s get you to hair and makeup before we have you try on your costume.” She smiled.

“Costume?” You followed her out of the room.

“Yep! It’s gonna look great for the cameras.” She brought to the makeup chair.

The makeup girls looked nervous but you just gave them a smile to calm them down. You simply closed your eyes and thought back to a happy memory where it was you and Grace.

You were watching her do her makeup, it was a dinner conference so she needed to look her best. “Can I try on the lip stick?”

“Sure baby.” She dabbed on a little bit on your lips. “Now rub them together and it’ll spread out.”

You smacked your lips together and looked in the mirror. “Ooo! Can I have the pink stuff on my cheeks?”

She dabbed her brush on your cheeks, leaving a bit of color behind. “Perfect!”

“Now can I go with you to the party?” You didn’t want to be by yourself.

“I’m sorry baby but it’s for grown ups only.” She kissed your head. “But I’ll be later ok? You’ll have a babysitter tonight.”

“Ok.” You hugged her one more time. The smell of her perfume was always your favorite part.

When you opened your eyes again, you looked different. Your hair had a reddish twinge to it, almost mimicking your birth mother’s hair color. Your makeup wasn’t as gentle as your other mother, you didn’t feel like yourself.

“Now it’s time for your costume fitting, Ms. Grey.” One of the girls helped you out of the chair.

“Ok.” You followed her to the dressing room and on the rack was a green skin tight bodysuit with a golden bird motif over the chest area plus gold accents near the waistline. The gold accents stretched up the neckline and covered the arms up the elbows like gloves.

The boots were also a gold color to tie it all together. You put into the costume adjusting as it went on. It was hugging your body in a way that left little to the imagination. Even though everything was covered, you felt exposed.

“Wow…” All heads turned to Bob who was standing there in awe. “You look…pretty.”

You blushed and wanted to hide from him. “I don’t feel like myself.”

“It’s ok.” He came up to you, parting the sea of people to get to you. “It’s you and me. Sentry and Phoenix.”

“Bobby…” You never heard him talk like that before and you felt him lift your head up to look at him, his eyes were different now.

“We don’t have to hide anymore.” He gave you a bold kiss in front of everyone. “I can protect you now.”

You kissed him back but it felt different. Not your Bob. Not your Bob. Not your Bob.

“It’ll be ok Sunny.” He whispered in your ear before he went to the hair people.

Valentina came in to check on you. “Wow! Don’t you look so powerful! It’s exactly what I envisioned for you.”

“Thank you…” You cringed a little.

“Maybe in time we’ll see little super babies out of you. Great for PR.” She grinned.

“I doubt that.” You loved Bob but the thought of him putting kid in you like this made you feel scared.

“All he has to do is tell me what he wants and I make it happen, you just need to be open to it.” She patted your cheek. “Now smile.” She left the room.

Everyone’s thoughts in the room were loud, talking about how it was a romantic gesture but unhinged. Fear. You were scared. You looked scared of your own boyfriend. Why would be scared of your boyfriend if she’s so handsome and powerful.

You finished getting your costume on to be out of the room where would be quiet. You found a quiet corner to concentrate your thoughts, taking deep breaths. You had to play along with this terrible charade. Would anyone come to your rescue?

All the while, Sentry was practicing with his powers, you could feel his uncertainty while using them but he was getting off on the fact he was so powerful now. He felt invincible and now he could do his job, you didn’t need to put yourself in danger for him anymore.

The rag tag team of the Thunderbolts came together under one goal to save you and Bob. Yelena, John, and Ava agreed that much that you two shouldn’t be under Valentina’s control especially since Bob was a ticking time bomb and you were still unknown.

Bucky decided to join the crusade to also take down Valentina for good. Especially since Mel called him with distressing news about how Val has gone off the deep end for this project. Project Sentry and Project Phoenix were active once more.

After stealing a truck, it was used as a battering ram to enter through the lobby that was still under construction. The team sprang into action taking down the agents guarding the door. Taking everyone down with ease until Valentina came over the loudspeaker.

“The door is wide open for you guys.” She allowed for the elevator to open up.

They all piled in, prepared for whatever. “We go in and rescue the love birds and we’re out of here.” John announced.

“What a solid plan.” Bucky said sarcastically.

The elevator opened up again and they walked out to a finished room, all while Valentina was pouring herself a drink.

“Can you believe that the first battle took place right where we’re standing.” She sipped it confidently. “Wow Yelena you look like shit.”

“Likewise.” She eyed her. “Where’s Bob and Sunny?”

“I think you mean the replacements for the Avengers, two cosmic powerhouses who dedicate their lives to defend earth. You can come down now and say hi to your friends.”

Bob walked down the stairs in his new dashing costume and dyed hair. “Hey guys.”

“And we can’t forget that every great male superhero needs their female counterpart. C’mon down little bird.” Valentina looked towards the stairs.

Bob had his hand extended out to you to coax you down. “It’s ok.”

You didn’t like this one bit, you took his hand and revealed yourself in your new costume. “Hi…” Your eyes were saddened that you had to face them like this.

Yelena, Ava, John, Bucky, and Alexei were stunned.

“I give you Sentry and Phoenix. Earth’s mightiest heroes.” Valentina was proud of herself. “Now Sentry, your first task is to get rid of these intruders.”

“You don’t have to do this, Bob. This isn’t you! You too Sunny.” Yelena tried to make you both see reason.

“I know this is wrong but she’ll hurt Bob if I don’t do what she says.” You sent the message across all their minds.

“We can help you! You’re one of us Bobby.” John tried to help.

“It’s Sentry now.” Bob had enough and the fight was on.

You stood back and watched as your friends were trying to take down Sentry, he easily knocked them back.

The odds were against the Thunderbolts until you joined in the fray, protecting those who needed you now from Bob.

“What are you doing?!” Sentry couldn’t help but feel betrayed.

“Doing my job.” You used your skills to try to get the upper hand on him, he was still novice at all this but it was like a toddler with a hammer.

You made the choice to stand up to Bob even if it conflicted with your heart but it was too late to turn it around as his grip on your neck was tightening. “L-Let them go…” you rasped, his power burning your skin.

“No…” The power blinded him, he kept squeezing until a horrid snap echoed in the room, the light in your eyes dimmed very quickly. He dropped your body carelessly, looking to everyone’s reaction.

“NOOO!!” Yelena screamed as everyone else watched in horror, as did Valentina. She was sure you’d be able to bounce back but this wasn’t a bullet you were dealing with.

The group had to leave quickly on the elevator, watching you still limp on the floor and Sentry standing over you like nothing.

“Aren’t you going to finish the job.” Valentina looked at him.

“They’re not a threat to me…” He knelt down to you, the ramifications of what he did finally hitting him, anger and sadness were flooding his heart. “Why did you do that. I was supposed to protect you…but you protected them.”

“She turned on you, Sentry.” She was now getting worried that you weren’t healing.

He picked you up gently. “She didn’t…I did. All because I listened to you. A god shouldn’t have to listen to the likes of you.”

“You’re using that term very loosely.” She had the fail safe behind her back at the ready.

“You said I’m more powerful than all the avengers combined and they had a god on their team.” He found a safe spot for you, laying you down before grabbing Val by the throat, squeezing her windpipe. “You don’t know what I am…she did. She saw me for what I am and I killed her.”

Your neck snapped back into place, your heart started beating again, your skin healing from his burns. Your eyes opened slowly but you stayed down.

Mel came in quickly and triggered the fail safe, killing Bob instantly.

“Good girl.” Val was relieved.

“I want a raise.” Mel saw your bodies on the floor.

Val got on the phone and ordered a clean up. “We got two bodies on the top floor.”

When the coast was clear, you sat up quickly and looked over at Bob. “No!”

You pulled his head into your lap. “Bob…Bobby no!” You started crying as you couldn’t feel his pulse. “I’m so sorry.” Your tears were falling on his face.

The clean up crew came and had their guns trained on you. “We got a live one here.”

The Void surfaced as he heard your cries, the darkness stemming from Bob’s body completely enveloped him. “I’m here…”

He grabbed you quickly, turning the agents into shadows. “I’ll keep you safe, I promise.”

Before you could say anything else, your world melted away and you woke up in an attic?

“Sunny!” Your Bob grabbed you and held you close. “I’m sorry! I’m so sorry!” He held you so tightly.

“I’m ok Bobby!” You clinged to him. “I swear I’m ok.” You looked around the room. “Where are we right now?”

“We’re safe from the other rooms.” He was so happy, your neck was intact.

You heard yelling from downstairs but he moved you from the crack in the floor. “Is that your mom and dad?”

“Ignore them.” He didn’t want you to see it.

“Ok.” You soothed him and gently muted them. “See? It’s quiet now.”

“How did you do that?” He relaxed.

“Something I picked up on my own.” You stroked his cheek. “When this is all over, you owe me a date on the beach.”

“I can do that.” He blushed. “I remember mostly everything.”

“That’s all I ask.” You held onto him. “I’m glad you remember.”

“I’m so sorry for hurting you…I didn’t mean to.” He sighed. “All that power just…it felt so good in the moment until it didn’t.”

“It’s ok…I forgive you.” You kissed his hands, noticing your clothes had changed from the gaudy costume you were in.

You had no idea the chaos that Void was causing outside. He was bringing everything into darkness, spreading like mold on fruit.

Yelena walked into the void to save Bob as a way to make amends with her own darkness. She traversed her own hellish rooms until she found you and Bob in the reflection of the mirror.

“Bob! Sunny!” She couldn’t believe that you weren’t dead.

“Hi Yelena.” Bob waved a little.

“Can we talk?” She was trying to find a way into the room.

“Sure.” He nodded.

She found a way inside and she treaded carefully. “Do you know what’s happening outside?”

“No…He sent me here to protect me.” You looked at her.

“He’s turning everything dark and it’s not stopping. How did you survive?” She was still trying to wrap her head around it.

“I heal slowly.” You touched her hand. “I’m alive I promise.”

“Ok.” She squeezed it, happy that you were ok. “Bob you have to stop him.”

“I don’t know how…” He looked at her.

“This can’t be the only room here.” She was feeling the walls.

“This is the most peaceful one for me.” He stood up.

“I know it’s terrifying but you won’t be alone. You have us.” She assured him.

The room started vibrating and as you tried to stand up, the floor started pulling you in. “Bob?! Yelena!!”

She was about to pull you up but she was pulled back by a rogue curtain wrapping around her neck, the opposite end choking out Bob as well.

You were sinking further into the floor. “Bobby!!” You were scared. The rest of the team crashed into the room, Bucky tried to pull you up but you were swallowed by the floor.

Alexei cut the curtain. “Where’s the little bird?”

“I don’t know but I think I know where she went.” Bob coughed and caught his breath. “You all came?” He was surprised.

“I told you you’re not in this alone. You’re one of us.” John nodded. “Let’s get your girlfriend back.”

The room was becoming unstable and as they went downstairs, Bob’s dad was angry. “Where do you think you’re going Robert?!”

John took this time to sock him right in the face for Bob. “Let’s go!”

The next room was where Bob was a sign spinner in a chicken suit, high on meth. He was strong for a guy in a chicken suit. Smacking everyone with the bail bonds sign.

Bucky gladly punched him in the face for being a dick. Finally, the team made it to the next room and it was the day Bob’s powers woke up.

“What is this place?” John looked around.

“It’s the lab.” Bob saw you standing to his dark counterpart.

You looked at him. “Bobby!” You touched the glass but a dark hand was clenched around your wrist.

The room subdued everyone, leaving Bob standing alone. “Let them go!”

“Why should I?” Void stood behind you. “You think they can protect you? You barely could protect her.”

“Please let them go…they’re our friends.” You looked over your shoulder.

“We’re meant to be alone with you…you’re all we need.” The darkness was leeching upwards, your skin was turning black.

“Please don’t do this.” Your eyes started glowing, your true form was surfacing but your flames were suppressed by him like a candle being suffocated. You turned completely black and you woke up again in another room.

It was like mirrored room with water with clear skies. What was this place?

“Hey my little sunflower.” It was your mother Grace.

“Mama?” You gasped and you went to give her a hug. “How are you here?”

“I’m only here for a little bit.” She kissed your face all over. “You’ve grown up so much…”

“I miss you every day…I’m sorry I couldn’t save you.” You started tearing up.

“You can still save yourself and the others. You can still save everyone you love. You just have to wake up.” She held your hands. “Be the Phoenix.”

You relaxed your senses, your flames were burning bright for her as she disappeared from your eyes.

The glass broke and Bob was able to rip you from him, your void body being casted aside as he got on top, whaling on him. “You don’t touch her!!”

“She’s mine now!!” He laughed despite being hit, “keeping going Robert!” The darkness was now leeching upwards on him. “C’mon!!” It was egging him.

Yelena was able to get out of her binds with her dad’s help, the room was trying to stop her but she wrapped her arms around him. “I’m here.”

You used your strength to pull the Void back. “Let go Bobby!” Your flames ignited once more as the black melted away.

Bucky grabbed hold of Bob as did John and Ava, pulling him off. A symbolic moment that made Bob feel wanted and heard.

You took the Void into your arms. “Let go.” You saw both sides of him and were glad his physical form was being loved on by the team and you held the dark back.

They all looked at you in awe because this was the power you had inside you. Your gentle flames wrapped around them to send them home to the surface.

“Sunny!” Bob cried out for you but then they all ended up back in the city. Things were returning to normal but you weren’t there.

You gave your Void a simple kiss on the head before he released you. “You’ll always see me.” You looked into his eyes with your gentle gaze.

Void looked at you a bit longer, feeling the sun shining on his face before he completely disappeared under the surface.

“Where is she?” Bob looked around.

“I don’t know?” Yelena feared the worst but as the veil of black was pulling away, you were sitting on the ground, your flames subsided and you were normal again.

Bob crawled over to you, happy that you were back. “You’re ok!” He grabbed you close.

“I am ok.” You smiled and held onto him. “I’m ok.”

He had so much emotion in him that he couldn’t help but to kiss you in front of everyone.

You were shocked by the kiss but you welcomed it. Now this was your sweet Bob, not the Sentry.

“Ah young love.” Alexei smiled in relief.

You stood up with him. “Now we can go on that beach date.”

“Yeah we can.” He saw Valentina trying to call for back up.

“We got this bob.” John wanted to have a go at her.

“Hey guys! You all made it!” Valentina tried to save her ass and managed to escape behind the down crane piece.

Everyone came out the other side to a press conference being held, confusing everyone on the team. Even you and Bob were confused.

She gave a bullshit explanation of her shady behavior. “I’d like to formally introduce your new protectors, the Avengers!”

Yelena decided to come over to her, whispering into her ear. “We own you.” That solidified her fate to the new Avengers.

The crowd was cheering and slowly everything was being rebuilt and you all had a new home in the Watchtower.

All the news coverage and press releases were something you weren’t use to. Having your picture taken and seeing it on newsstands and magazines was a trip.

You were happy to be living with freedom, some times you were on guard during the night, watching Bob sleep. It was natural that you two would be roommates and share a room, one bed on each wall.

The room was decorated sparsely but on your nightstand, you had the picture of your mothers and your baby blanket tucked away. On Bob’s side of the room, he kept it simple as can be.

John called it the college experience. You had idea what that meant but you assumed it was a good thing. On a rainy night, you couldn’t sleep and with Bob snoozing away, you decided to get up to go sit in the living room to watch tv.

You found the BBC channel playing reruns of Planet Earth, you lowered the volume to not wake up the rest of the house. You were dozing off until you heard movement in the kitchen. You went on the defensive until Bucky turned on the light.

“Sorry…didn’t mean to scare you.”

“It’s ok.” You sighed.

“Can’t sleep?”

“No…I’m scared waking up in a crate again.”

He poured you a glass of water. “That won’t happen on my watch I promise.”

“Thanks Bucky.” You took a sip of water. “How did you manage to feel normal after everything?”

“I did therapy for a minute but I stopped going. Then I threw myself into work. It took a while before I found my new normal.” He leaned on the counter. “You and Bob went through a lot.”

“Yeah we did…I’m happy we made it through and we picked up new friends along the way.” You finished your water.

“But how are you feeling though?” He watched your face.

“I’m tired…but I’m happy to be here and not in a lab. I miss my mom and wished she was still here.” You realized you never got to mourn her properly.

“What was she like?” He asked kindly.

“She was the smartest woman I knew, taught me everything I know with her books and experiences. She told me to not be afraid of what I can do because it’s a gift. She was kind and showed me genuine love. Every time I read her mind, all her thoughts were about me and how she wanted to protect me.”

Bucky grabbed a napkin because you started crying. “Here kid.”

“Thank you….” You dabbed your eyes. “She was my first friend but above all else she was my mom. I sometimes wish I could’ve saved her…I couldn’t stop the bullet but I tore through the wall to get to her. She looked at me for a moment while she still had life before she died.”

Bucky came around the side and gave you a hug. “It’s ok…Your survival would’ve made her proud because you’re still here.”

“I know…I’m so happy I have Bob though.” You sniffled and blew your nose. “Of course you guys too.”

“I know I play second fiddle to Bob.” He dried your eyes. “You love him a lot huh?”

“I do. He’s my whole world. Everything about him is perfect, flaws and all.” You smiled a bit. “I know he’s quiet about it but it’s the little things he does that assures me he feels the same way.”

“It’s obvious to us because every time you walk into the room he smiles more. Plus you two aren’t always that far from each other.” Buck was happy for you two.

You two heard shuffling and it was Bob who was looking for you. “Did we wake you up Bobby?”

“I couldn’t feel you in the room so I got worried.” He was glad you were still here.

“I’m coming don’t worry.” You finished your water. “Thanks for listening Bucky.”

“You’re welcome kid.” He watched you pull Bob away gently back to your room. An hour later he went to check on you guys, only to see you sleeping soundly in his bed. He carefully shut the door to let you two sleep.

Chapter Text

Time passed at the tower and your relationship with Bob grew deeper. He confided in you a lot, opening up in subtle ways, but most importantly he showed his love towards you.

You’d let him read to you on nights where you couldn’t sleep or even read to him whenever he was having a hard time. You never told him you loved him just yet because you didn’t want to impose that pressure on him.

For now, the team understood your dynamic as he was your shadow. Your loving shadow. The only times where you and Bob would be separated was during training.

You grew into your own power, training with Ava and Yelena, even sparring with Bucky. Alexei still didn’t want to yet but he gave you pep talks. His pep talks were oddly inspiring.

You’d join Walker for training sessions as well but he’d go easy on you just because he was being respectful. “You know I can take a hit right?”

“Listen I’m still traumatized by seeing your boyfriend snap your neck in front of us.” He was honest.

“Oh my God…I’m so sorry.” You almost forgot about that. “How about I make it up to you guys by making dinner for your cheat day.”

“You can cook? You never cease to surprise me Arizona.” He chuckled, handing you a towel.

“Well when I was growing up, my mom would always let me help in the kitchen and I still remember her recipes.” You smiled a bit. “I hope she can see that I’m doing ok.”

“I think she knows.” John put his hand on your shoulder. “You got a family now.”

You couldn’t help but tear up at the notion. “I do.” You chuckled and wiped your tears. “Thanks for today’s training.”

“No problem.” He let you be for now.

You went to shower off before coming to the kitchen to make note of the ingredients you needed.

“What are you up to?” Bob’s hand found its way to yours.

“I’m making dinner tonight.” You smiled at him. “You wanna come with me to the store?”

“Sure yeah.” He smiled and kissed you. Kissing was one of his favorite hobbies to do with you.

“Want it to be just us?” You kissed him back.

“Will we be ok on our own?” He wondered because usually Yelena or Bucky would accompany you outside the tower.

“I think so! I’ve memorized the route and if we stick to it we’ll be fine.” You kissed his cheek. “Get your shoes on, I already got my wallet.”

“Ok!” He went to your shared room and slipped on his sneakers, also grabbing your jacket. “I brought you this.”

“Aww thank you.” You held his hand, walking to the elevator, punching the ground floor.

The walk to the store was quiet but you kept Bob calm and the Void at bay. You had him grab a cart and you were up and down the aisle, putting things in the cart you needed/wanted.

Bob was looking at the shelves and the talk he got from Alexei was still in his head. The topic of sex and condoms came up but he wasn’t sure he could do it with you. He didn’t want to hurt you because his strength was still untapped.

“Bob?” You snapped him out of his daze.

“What? Huh?” He blinked.

“You ok? You got quiet on me.” You were worried.

“Just…read my thoughts because I can’t use words.” He was too embarrassed.

“Ok.” You took a look, seeing the talk he and Alexei had about wooing you and using proper protection. No need for super babies yet. You chuckled and gave him a quick peck. “It’s ok Bobby, we don’t have to rush it.”

“I want to though…but I don’t want to hurt you.” He cleared his throat.

“We can try after dinner.” You grabbed a box of condoms off the shelf. “We’ll take it slow.”

Sex wasn’t a mystery for you, even though you’ve never done it, you’ve read enough to know how it happens.

“Ok.” He liked the sound of that. “Do you know how?”

“Nope! But there is such thing as beginners luck.” You were honest with him. “I think we got everything I need to cook so let’s go pay for these.”

He smiled to himself and was scanning everything. “I never did ask you properly to be my girlfriend.”

“Oh? And we’ve been together for a few months now.” You blushed.

“Will you be my girlfriend, Sunny Grey?” He incorporated your last name into this historic moment.

“Of course I will, Robert Reynolds.” You levitated slightly to kiss his cheek. “Always and forever.”

He gave you a quick kiss in response. You were too good for him.

After paying for everything, you hauled your groceries back home to the tower. Luckily the rest of the gang was still out doing whatever leaving you two alone in the kitchen.

There was kitchenware floating about and pots stirring on their own as you were layering the lasagna. “Sauce, pasta, cheese mix, meat sauce, and repeat.”

Bob was practicing with his powers with the salad, “tossing the salad.” Being careful to not break the glass. “How’d you get so comfortable with your powers?”

“My mom taught me to not be afraid of it, it’s an extension of myself.” Once you finished the two trays, it was into the oven they went. “Main dish in the oven, how’s the salad coming?”

“It’s going!” He decided to use his hands for the dressing.

“So proud of you.” You smiled at him.

“Thank you.” He took these little compliments to heart because coming from you it meant the world to him.

You turned off everything that didn’t need to be on and started washing the dishes so there’d be less to do. You turned on the radio for some background music until one of your favorites came on. It was “Can’t Help Falling in Love” By Elvis.

“Wanna dance handsome?” You dried your hands.

“I don’t know how to…” He didn’t want to make a fool out of himself.

“It’s ok, it’s just us.” You brought him out to the living room. “But I want you to reach me up here.” You levitated away from him.

“I-I can’t.” He was afraid of breaking everything or having the Void surface.

“You want me don’t you?” You coaxed him gently.

He wanted you. Oh he wanted you bad.

“Just pretend you’re on an elevator.” You gave him an example.

“Ok.” He concentrated and slowly he was rising to you, he only stopped when you took his hands. “Hi.”

“Hi.” You smiled and kissed his hands. “You did it.”

“I did all thanks to you.” He blushed.

You showed him a few moves, a simple one two step and a twirl. “Now we’re dancing.”

He brought you closer to his body, feeling so happy he was doing this with you. He twirled you and even dipped you during the pinnacle moments of the song.

“You’re a natural.” You heard the elevator door open and it was Bucky.

“What are you guys doing up there?” He took off his sunglasses.

“Dancing.” Bob answered.

“Well why don’t you two get down here, don’t need footprints on the ceiling.” He hung up his jacket. “What’s that smell?” His stomach started growling.

“Well that’s dinner.” You came back down to the floor with Bob. “I made enough for everyone plus it’s a meal to somewhat heal the trauma for John.”

“What trauma?” He followed you two to the kitchen.

“The um…” You made a neck breaking motion. “That.”

“Oh! That…yeah that already left a scar.” The beeping of the oven timer went off. “Everyone should be coming home soon so I’ll help set the table.”

“Great!” You were excited for this.

The table was set and drinks were out, slowly the team was coming in, surprised that you made dinner.

“I don’t remember the last time I had a home cooked meal.” Ava was impressed.

“I made enough to go around.” You cut into the lasagna and gave hearty portions to everyone.

“Don’t be shy little bird!” Alexei held out his plate for more.

You gladly gave him an extra slice. “There we are.” You sat down next to Bob to start eating.

John was quiet as he was eating, his heart was aching as he took bites. God he missed his this so much with his wife. “Good job Arizona.”

“I also got dessert chilling in the fridge, a no bake cheesecake made from scratch.” You heard a resounding yes from Yelena and Ava.

“It’s official, you’re in charge of the cheat meals.” Alexei proclaimed.

You smiled and continued eating, feeling Bob’s hand trying to find yours. You held it under the table so he’d eat peacefully.

Small conversations were had around the table, new training regiments, stories of the old country, mission mishaps. It really did feel like a family.

When everyone was done eating, you put what little remained of the leftovers away, things were moving around with ease.

“So how are things going with you and Bob?” Ava joined in by helping dry everything.

“Things are great so far.” You smiled a bit to yourself. “He’s really sweet.”

“He’s like a puppy following you around the house, always wanting to please you however he can.” She chuckled.

“We balance each other out in a way, I love him to death.” You finished cleaning up. “I’m gonna go shower off then head to bed.”

“So early? Why don’t we watch a movie?” Alexei was trying to find a perfect movie to round off the night.

“Not tonight Alexei, I’m beat from cooking for the family.” You excused yourself to your room to get a fresh towel and clothes.

While you were in the shower, Bob was in the room waiting patiently, to say he was nervous would be an understatement.

He couldn’t believe you were entrusting him with your first time. All throughout dinner he wondered how it’d go, running through all sorts of scenarios in his head.

Would you hate it? Would it hurt you? Would it suck so bad that you break up with him? Oh God then he’d really chuck himself into a wood chipper.

“Bob?” You came back into the room with slightly damp hair. “You ok?”

“Yeah I’m fine.” He snapped out of it. “How are you feeling?”

“Great now that I don’t smell like food.” You chucked your dirty clothes into the hamper.

“That’s good.” He smiled a little. “You still wanna do it?”

“Yeah I do…is it weird that I’m excited about it? It’s what I thought about through dinner.” You blushed. “Are you?”

He nodded. “There’s something I need to tell you.”

“What is it?” You sat down on your bed.

Bob locked the door of the bedroom so there wouldn’t be interruptions. “So when I was an addict, I use to sleep with my dealer when I didn’t have cash. I know how to get others off…it’d feel good but then afterwards it wouldn’t.”

You pulled him next you, holding his hand. “That doesn’t change how I see you or feel about you. I’ve never been with anyone else.”

“Ok.” He squeezed your hand to ground himself. “I trust you.”

“I trust you too.” You kissed his cheek.

“What do you want to do first?” He shifted a little bit on your bed.

“Make out? That’s how it usually starts right?” You giggled but felt nervous, you quickly put away your mom’s picture so she wouldn’t see it.

“We can do that yeah.” He’d go at your pace and stop if you wanted to.

You climbed into his lap and settled down nicely, giving him sweet kisses, his hands found your waist before traveling up your back.

You wrapped your arms around his neck, feeling him relaxing under your touch. You decided to experiment by leading your kisses to his neck.

He let you as it felt really nice, he sighed contently. “Keep going.”

You nipped at his skin a little but kept kissing him, subconsciously rocking hips on him.

“Can I take your bra off?” He paused mid kiss.

You nodded. “Yes.”

He unclasped your bra easily and you slipped it out from under your shirt. “Can I take off your shirt?”

You turned red and nodded, you lifted your arms for him to show him your chest. He went silent as he admired you. You were so pretty and perfect, his hand cupped one of your breast and it filled it nicely.

He opened his mouth and latched onto the other while continuing to grope the other. Your hips started moving again over the stiff tent that was growing in his pants.

A dampness was evident as the friction was making you feel good so you grinded harder on him. “Mmm!” You were getting lost as Bob continued to stimulate your tits with his hand and mouth before switching sides.

He liked he was making you feel this way, he was happy to bring you this kind of pleasure. Your moans were getting louder before you let out a surprised gasp. Your orgasm hit you harder than he expected as you stiffened up.

Bob moved you from his lap and laid you down the bed. “You ok?”

“Yeah…I want more.” You were getting needy and that’s all Bob needed to hear as he tugged your shorts with your panties off.

“I can give you more I promise.” He took a second to admire you and he promised himself to cherish you. He still couldn’t believe he had you as a girlfriend.

You blushed as you listened to his thoughts. “You think I’m pretty like this Bob?”

“Oh baby you have no idea. I have to prep you more so it won’t hurt as much.” He opened your legs more and patted your lips with his middle finger. “Just stop me if you want to.”

“Ok…” You shuddered at the feeling of his finger. He gathered up some of your wetness to help lubricate before he teased your entrance a bit.

“That’s it baby.” He pushed his finger inside you, feeling your plush walls around it.

It felt foreign and uncomfortable for a moment before he started moving it around. “Mmm…” You held onto your bed sheets.

You were becoming more pliant so he added a second finger to help stretch you out, he didn’t leave your clit out on purpose so he used his mouth to help.

“Ah!” Your hand found his hair, grabbing a fistful of it.

He kept a steady pace with his hand and mouth, he pulled his fingers out to get a taste of you before pushing a third back in.

“Bob!” You looked up at the high ceiling before closing your eyes. “Please Bob!”

He kept it going, using the tip of his tongue to tease your clit, the tugging on his hair was sure sign he was doing it right.

Another orgasm washed over you like a wave and you let out a small scream that sounded painful but in reality you were feeling good.

Bob pulled out his fingers, impressed with himself. “You ok?”

“Mhmm…” You caught your breath before looking at Bob who was red. You could hear him being conflicted with himself. “Bobby…it’s ok.” You sat up and gave him a kiss. “I want all of you.”

“Ok.” He stripped himself, revealing the impressive physique underneath all the baggy clothes he’d often wear.

Now you two were naked in each other’s presence. It was quiet but you were just admiring each other.

He was giving you gentle kisses and he guided your hands to touch him. “Don’t be afraid…”

“But I’m not.” You were feeling him gently, he was so warm and soft.

“I was telling myself that.” He smiled nervously.

“Oh.” You decided to be bold and stroke his semi hard length hearing him shudder.

“Keep going.” He sighed as you stroked him to a full erection, “wait I need a condom!”

You saw the box across the room, you opened it with ease without letting go of him. The golden foil wrapped condom was floating in front of him. “Put it on.”

He was smitten by your eagerness so he tore it open with his teeth and rolled it on. “I hope it doesn’t break.”

“And if it does?” You looked at him.

“I’ll buy you a morning after pill.” He was use to that routine unfortunately.

You felt him lay you down on the bed and he got between your legs. “Bob?”

“Hm?” He looked into your eyes.

“I love you.” You felt ready to say it before taking the next step in the relationship.

He felt his heart skip a beat, there was a pause between his thoughts and forming words. He saw your eyes sadden ever so slightly because he didn’t say it back immediately. “I love you too.”

He aligned himself, gently pushing himself inside you, your face registered pain but it didn’t last long. “Bobby…” You reached for his hand and he grabbed it.

“It’s ok…” He sighed as he went all the way in, your body adjusting to his length and girth. “Fuck I love you so much…”

“I love you more than anything in the world.” You felt full in that moment, a sense of oneness. He took it slow with his thrusts, constricting his own noises to hear you.

Your sweet moans were all the assurance he needed to know that he was giving you pleasure. You felt so good on his cock, like you were made for him, he never thought he’d have such a better turn out on life.

He felt confident enough to give you more so he grabbed your hips, holding you in place as his pace grew more hungry. “You’re mine! All mine!” He grunted.

“I’m yours baby! I’m all yours!” You felt that familiar coil growing in your lower belly. You threw your head back, not knowing your powers were making stuff float around.

He adjusted the angle and could see your eyes were starting to shine. “Give it to me!”

You cried out as you came on his cock then he stopped all of a sudden when things fell to the floor. “Oh shit…what a mess.” You caught your breath as you looked around the floor, then the ceiling, noticing an inky blackness poking through.

“…Fuck.” He didn’t stop fucking you, his eyes were now changed and you saw it. “Give me another one…”

“W-Wait!” You were still trying to recover from the last one. “Bob!”

He pulled out of you, flipping you onto all fours, before pushing himself back inside you in one stroke.

“AH!!” You gripped at the bed sheets as you felt the full weight of his thrusts. “Bob!!”

He pushed your upper body down on the bed, holding you down as he was taking what he wanted out of you.

You turned your head and saw the walls were turning black. This was the Void coming out. “Void please!!”

He stopped and he used his power to lift you up again, your back against his chest, his lips connected to your neck. “You’re mine for the moment…”

You felt his arms holding you in place and he was making you see stars. You thought your first time with Bob would be simple with a dash of romance but this was turning into something more primal.

His hand covered your mouth as he snapped his hips into you. It was so much in one sitting that your senses were overloaded, it was reacting with the environment around you. The lights were flickering and you could feel his breaths were more erratic on your neck.

He was close to his end but he didn’t want to go back inside yet. He had you right where he wanted. “Let me feel you cum!” His free hand traveled downward to rub quick circles on your clit.

You screamed into his hand as this orgasm was harshly teased out of you, if it wasn’t for the condom still intact, he would’ve spilt all of himself inside you. The lights went off and the bed snapped under the pressure of both your powers combined.

He removed his hand from your mouth so you could breathe and he kept you in place. The room was still with nothing but the sound of your heavy breaths in the dark.

“Sunny?” Bob finally spoke.

“Bobby?” You panted.

“Are you ok?” He didn’t dare move just yet.

“Yeah…I think so.” You nodded.

Bob pulls out when it was ok, hearing you whine when he was fully out. “Sorry…” He took the condom and tossed it in the trash.

You don’t even dare look at the room because it’s a mess. Bob gets up on auto pilot, slipping on a pair of sweats before exiting the room without saying anything.

You were afraid that he wouldn’t come back but that was far from the truth.

He goes to the nearest bathroom, grabbing a couple of wash cloths before coming back to you. “I have to clean you up.”

“Oh.” You were surprised by this aspect, he called it aftercare. You hissed when the cold cloth touched your sore bits.

“Sorry…” He made sure you were cleaned up before he took care of himself. “Did you like it?”

“Yeah I did…it felt really good. Raw and passionate. I liked feeling you in me but also liked you putting all your weight on me.” You opened your arms for him. “I didn’t think your other self would come out.”

He went into your arms to cuddle you close. “I agree with everything you said.” He kissed your head. “Also I’m sorry he did.”

“Hopefully we weren’t that loud right?” You could only hope. “For what it’s worth, it’s safe to say he likes me.”

“I don’t think we were.” He kissed you one last time before he relaxed. “At least he likes you.”

The next morning, Bob was up early looking for something to eat when John came in for coffee.

“Morning.” Bob was fixing himself some toast.

“Morning Bobby.” John grabbed a mug and poured it. “How was your night?”

“It was great, did some light reading.” Bob put jelly on one slice and butter on the other.

“Oh? Well we had some odd power surges throughout the tower. Made the lights in my room spark and sputter until it stopped.”

He blushed. “Really? Us too.”

John chuckled. “I was like you and Arizona with my wife. First few weeks of marriage I couldn’t keep my hands off her, loved on her so much before I got called away for duty.”

“Oh…” Bob wasn’t use to John being this open. “We weren’t loud right?”

“Nope. Couldn’t hear a thing but I did hear a snap. Did you break one of the beds?!”

“Maybe…” Bob turned red again.

“Just put in an order for a new bed, no harm done.” He patted his shoulder.

You came into the kitchen wearing one of Bob’s sweaters and slippers. “Morning.” You yawned as you opened the fridge for a yogurt.

“Morning to you too Arizona.” He chuckled. “Any plans for today?”

“Nothing really aside from cleaning up our room and doing some laundry.” You played it off pretty well.

“Need some help?” He offered.

“No we’re fine thanks though.” Bob answered for you, he rounded you up with your yogurt and his toast to go back to the room.

“You don’t wanna eat in the living room?” You heard close the door.

“What we did last night…he knows.” Bob was a bit embarrassed.

“Oh.” You giggled. “It’s ok if they know, I mean it’s obvious but we can try to keep it under wraps and under control.”

He kissed your head. “I love you so much.”

“I love you more. I love all of you.” You kissed him sweetly. “Can’t believe we broke my bed.”

“Maybe we can get just one bed, turn the room into like a couple’s room instead of roommates.” He sat down at his desk chair while you took his bed.

“I’d like that.” You started eating your yogurt. “Turn it into our little haven.”

“I’d like that very much.” Bob happily took a bite of his toast.

Chapter Text

After breakfast, you got dressed for the day in your house clothes and started cleaning up everything from your nocturnal activities. Bob moved the broken bed out into the hallway for now.

After sweeping the floor, it was clear to go for moving things around. “Ok can you picture the bed here?” You gestured to an area you had in mind.

He looked at the spot, “I think it’s perfect right there.” He nodded when something came to his mind. “Hey I just thought of something and you could say no if you want to but maybe we could go to the beach together? For our beach date.”

“Today?” You looked at him with eager eyes.

“Yeah.” He wanted to take you sooner but things with the press and advertising for the team kept getting in the way.

“I’d love to! Let’s finish up in here and we can go! Do we walk? Take a cab? Or fly?” You were getting really excited that it was finally happening.

“Whichever you wanna do.” He liked making you happy and seeing you smile made his heart warm.

You fixed up the room as best you could and made up the single bed. You looked through your clothes for something more appropriate for the beach date. Since it was warmer now, you opted for a nice top with simple jean shorts and cute sneakers.

Bob went for his go to jeans and shirt with his comfort hoodie. “Should we let someone know that we’re headed out?”

“I’ll leave a sticky note besides we’re grown enough.” You wrote a note saying you and Bob were out on the date. You stuck it to the fridge before heading out the tower.

The mode of transportation was definitely flying, you took Bob’s hand and took off for Coney Island, staying low enough to not catch any flack from planes.

Bob didn’t look down but he kept his focus on you. “I don’t know how you like doing this.” He held on tightly to your arm, but balanced it out by flying too.

“Because I always dreamt of flying away from the labs and taking you with me! Now we’re flying to Coney Island for a date.” You chuckled.

“Right!” He chuckled nervously but was glad when you two touched back down on the ground. First and foremost, you wanted to touch the ocean before going to the boardwalk.

You took off your shoes and socks, stepping onto the warm sand. “Whoa…this feels weird but cool.” You dug your toes into the sand.

Bob opted to keep his shoes on for now. “You wanna touch the water?” He let you hand over your shoes so you’d be hands free.

“Yes!” You walked towards the water then stopped to let the water come to you. When it did, you were surprised it was cold.

You turned to Bob with a happy smile. “It’s cold!!” You walked in a bit further until the water was to your ankles. “This is awesome!!”

This being your first time touching the ocean stirred something in Bob’s heart. He watched you kick the water in glee, splashing around a bit until you had your fill.

“C’mon let’s go rinse you off.” Bob offered you his arm.

“Maybe later we can come back and swim?” You were loving the start of this date.

“Sure we can.” He brought you to the rinsing station, opening the tap for you.

The cold water from the tap wasn’t as bad as the ocean water but you got the sand off. When your feet were dry enough you stuck your shoes back on before climbing back up to the pier.

You’ve always seen Coney Island in pictures and in movies but never have you seen it in person. The atmosphere was perfect and the sound of the boardwalk matched perfectly with the water.

“Wow!” You were in awe of the lights and sounds. “Let’s just walk around!” You took his hand again.

He let you drag him but kept up with you. He never realized that your view of the world was so small, all your life you’d been kept in a glorified cage. Seeing the world through your eyes made him feel more alive than ever.

He’d never tell you this but you kept him breathing. You made waking up every day more bearable. His love for you made every day much better.

You caught the scent of the fried goodness that was funnel cakes. “Can we get one of those?”

“Sure!” He took out his wallet, he liked the fact that with the title of Avenger, came a little pay. He never spent much but for you, he’d buy the whole world if you asked.

You stood in line with him until it was your turn. “One please!”

“That’ll be five bucks.” The vendor handed you the funnel cake while Bob handed him a five.

“Thank you Bob.” You took a good piece from the side and ate it. “Mmmm!”

“It’s good huh?” He smiled at your reaction.

“Mhmm!” You took another piece and continued walking around, until you reached the end of the pier. The sun was starting to set and it was a picturesque.

The funnel cake stood no chance against you two and you leaned on the railing. “It’s so pretty here…”

“Yeah it is.” He stood close to you, putting his arm around you. “Thanks for bringing us here.”

“It wouldn’t have been the same without you.” You smiled.

Bob leaned on you, feeling lighter than air. “I love you.” He felt more confident saying it to you.

“I love you too.” You looked up at him, sealing the deal with a kiss as the sun casted a romantic glow.

As it got darker outside, the lights of the boardwalk came on and you gasped. “It’s so beautiful.”

“Not as beautiful as you.” He continued walking with you until you stopped at a photo booth.

“Can we do that?” You saw there wasn’t anyone in it.

“Sure!” He put in a dollar to get it going and since it was a tight squeeze, he put you on his lap. “Ok look at the camera.”

You looked in the lens and smiled for a couple pictures before it prompted you to do a silly face. For the last one, you decided to kiss him again. The machine printed it out for you and Bob took a look at it. “How do we look?”

“We look good.” He showed it to you before putting it in his pocket for safe keeping. He got of the booth with you, letting you lead him wherever else you wanted to go.

You saw a haunted house ride called the Spook-a-Rama, there was a line but it interested you. “I wonder if it’s really scary.”

“It’s probably not that scary.” He wasn’t sure himself but he’d protect you if it was.

You two got in a cart, the bar settled over your laps and you were off into the ride. It was dark with black lights glowing on the neon decor, a fog machine was adding to the spooky atmosphere.

The cart jerked around as it winded around corners and there was a little drop that made you grab onto Bob for safety. “Oh shit!”

“It’s ok I got you.” He held onto you until the end of the ride. He got out with you and into a more well lit area.

“That was kinda scary.” You held onto his arm.

“Yeah you’re right, did you wanna go another ride?” He looked down at you.

“We should go on the ferris wheel before we head home.” You saw it turning with all the twinkling lights.

“Yeah we can.” He led you to the ferris wheel line, waiting patiently as he saw other couples too. He felt like he was fitting in with you. Here you were on a first date as an established couple.

You two got on and the wheel was turning slowly to let other passengers on. It was a steady climb to the top.

He liked the view so far and there was a gentle breeze passing by. The noises of the pier were dimming down as you two made it all the way to the top. “Did you mean it when you said you would’ve flown us out of the lab.”

“I did.” You turned your head to him. “I don’t know where we could’ve gone but I knew I’d bring us somewhere nice.”

“At least we’re here together now.” He held your hand, kissing your knuckles.

“This has been the best first date ever. Even if we did things backwards.” You chuckled.

“Yeah I know.” He rested his head on yours. “I’m happy I have you in my life…we made it out alive.”

“Of course we did. I wouldn’t have it any other way.” You stared at the water and did two spins on the ferris wheel before it was time to get off.

Bob took you through a fun house with all the kooky mirrors. He chuckled when you bumped into the mirrors during the maze part.

“What’s so funny huh?” You teased him.

“Nothing.” He couldn’t help himself and guided you out to the uneven floors. “Just one foot in front of the other.”

“How do people find this fine?!” You were careful and trusted your guide.

“They just do!” He held your arms until the end. “See you survived!”

“At least my forehead won’t bruise.” You rubbed the sore spot.

He leaned down and kissed it. “All better now.”

“Such a charmer.” You blushed, deciding to call it a night. You were tuckered out from having so much fun.

As you two were walking off to the exit, a little girl was crying and you stopped a second to help. “Hey there…what’s wrong?” You knelt down to her level.

“I-I lost my mommy.” She sniffled and you could feel her fear.

“We’ll help you find your mommy.” You assured her. “Wanna hold my hand?”

She nodded quickly and took hold of your hand.

“What is she wearing?” You asked her.

“Red pants and white shirt.” She remembered that much.

“Keep an eye out for red pants and white shirt Bobby.” You looked at him.

“I will!” He looked around to the best of his ability.

You quiet your mind and singled out a frantic mother’s thoughts not far from you guys. “Let’s take a walk this way.”

The little girl stuck close to you while Bob followed behind. “Will I see my mommy again?”

“I promise you’re going to see her again.” You gave her hope and just passing by the carnival games, there was the frantic mother with her other children.

“Sadie! Oh my God where did you go?!” The poor mom was so worried.

“Mommy!” Sadie let go of your hand and ran to hold onto her legs. “The nice girl helped me find you.”

“Thank you so much!” She smiled gratefully to you and Bob. “Thank you both.”

“All in a day’s work ma’am.” You smiled but it covered the hurt you felt in your heart. It made you miss your mom badly.

“Are you an avenger?” One of the siblings asked you. “You’re on my dad’s cereal box!”

You got to their level. “I am but shh, we’re on a secret mission.”

“Ok!” They promised to keep quiet.

“You stay safe ok? Stay close to your mama.” You smiled at Sadie one more time before taking your leave with Bob.

Once you were further away, you took to the skies with Bob. “You really are an Avenger.”

“Just doing my job plus I remember something my mom said that when I grew up, to be the adult your younger self could count on.” You held his hand.

“I think you did just that. If I was a kid again I’d come to you.” He really would have, if he had someone like you as a kid to turn to, maybe things would’ve been different.

“Aww Bobby.” You blushed, beginning your descent onto the helipad of the tower. “I had fun.”

“Me too.” Bob saw the lights were on and Mel was there talking to Bucky and John. “What is she doing here?”

“I don’t know?” You walked in through the doors. “We’re home!”

“Hey kid.” Bucky looked at you. “Mel here has something for you.”

“What?” You were curious.

“So we got a call from your birth mom’s parents. Your biological grandparents want to meet you and Valentina told me to bring this up to you.” She hesitated and gauged your reaction.

“I have other family?” You were surprised but not so much because your face had been plastered all over the place.

“Yes. We can set up a meeting here or you go to them in upstate New York.” She put her card on the kitchen island.

“Can I think about it and get back to you?” You nodded.

“Sure! I’ll be waiting to hear back from you.” Mel took her leave.

You had to sit down for a second, you went quiet as your thoughts raced. Were they good people? Were they even nice? How long has it been since they’ve seen their daughter?

“Arizona?” John broke the silence.

“What?” You looked at him.

“I know it’s a lot to take in at once but just think about it.” He nodded, this was an opportunity for you that he wished he had.

“You don’t have to say yes if you don’t want to.” Bucky added.

“I’m not sure what to do exactly…I mean I don’t know them but I’m related to them.” You sighed.

“I can go with you.” Bob held your hand.

“You’d do that for me?” You held his hand tightly.

“You’re always there for me so now I’m doing the same thing.” He smiled gently.

“I mean we can all go if you want the moral support.” Bucky suggested. “Wouldn’t let you go at it alone.”

“Let me sleep on it.” You assured him.

A couple days went by and you were weighing your options mentally day and night, during training, during chores.

It wasn’t until during the nightly movie night when you came to a decision. “Who all wants to come with me to upstate New York to meet my maternal grandparents?”

“I do!” Alexei nodded.

“Count me in.” Ava raised her hand.

“Me too.” Yelena smiled at you.

“You already know we’re coming with you.” Bucky gestured between himself and John.

“Thanks guys.” You felt seen and heard.

Bob kissed your head. “Anything for you.”

Chapter Text

Bucky made the call to Mel and the date was set. Courtesy of Valentina, a black SUV was parked out front to take you to your grandparents house. Alexei agreed to drive and everyone was dressed nice but casual.

You were nervous about it but Bob held your hand, he could feel your hesitation. “It’s gonna be ok Sunny. No matter what happens you still have us.”

“Thank you.” You leaned on him the entire time while Alexei was telling another story about the motherland.

Dr. John Grey and Elaine Grey were waiting patiently for you. Mel had contacted them saying you were coming with the team so Elaine cooked plenty of food to eat.

“I hope she likes what we made.” Elaine was going through the menu once more in her head.

“I’m sure she’ll appreciate it.” John was more nervous than he let on. He missed his daughter so much that it pained him to know that she was gone but a piece of her walked the earth.

You noticed it was a cushy neighborhood judging from the houses. It was the picturesque neighborhood that echoed Americana. White picket fence, lush green grass, at least one or two cars in each driveway.

Alexei pulled up the address. “We’re here, remember little bird, we can leave any time you want. Just send a mental signal.”

“Ok.” You took off your seat belt and got out of the car. Bob followed suit as did everyone else.

“Nice house.” Ava looked around.

“Mhmm.” Bucky saw the front door open, “ok people let’s be on our best behavior.”

John was standing at the threshold of the door, seeing the new Avengers pile out of the car. “Hi! Welcome!”

“Thank you for having us Mr. Grey.” Bucky went to shake his hand. “I’m Bucky Barnes.”

“Dr. John Grey.” He shook his hand firmly. “Are you the leader of the Avengers?”

“Yes.” He nodded, feeling the team behind him. “This is Ava Starr, Yelena Belova, Alexei Shostakov, John Walker,” Bucky brought you towards the front gently. “This is Sunny.”

“And I’m Bob.” Bob spoke for himself.

“It’s wonderful to meet you all.” John kept it together when he saw you. “Please come inside!” He stepped aside to let everyone pass.

Elaine was standing in the living room, feeling nervous about it all. “Is this her?” She looked at you.

“Yes honey.” John joined his wife’s side. “This is Sunny.”

“Oh what a lovely name.” She couldn’t help but to come up to you, wanting to hold you.

“I like hugs.” You opened that door for her first.

She didn’t hesitate and she hugged you. It was a warm feeling, almost felt like your mama’s hugs. She started shaking a little but it was from the tears. “I-I’m sorry…it’s just you remind us of your mother.”

“It’s ok.” You soothed her, “it’s an honor to be here. I never knew you guys existed.”

“Neither did we until we saw you on the newsstands, covers of magazines, and a cereal box.”

“You’re welcome! That was my idea.” Alexei was still proud of that.

“Yes we know.” Yelena sighed.

“So what do you want to know about me?” You asked gently.

“Everything. You can tell us over dinner.” She kissed your forehead and showed you the table.

“I have to warn you, I’m not sure what Mel or Valentina told you about me but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.”

“We figured because the story we were fed sounded rehearsed.” John nodded.

“Ok.” You took a seat and patted the seat next to you for Bob. “First I’ll tell you the good stuff before the bad, this is my boyfriend Bob.” You still got butterflies saying that.

“How sweet!” Elaine gestured the team to sit down. “Please grab as much as you want.”

“Thank you, ma’am.” Walker didn’t hesitate and filled his plate with a bit of everything.

“And I look to my team as my family, a bit unconventional but still family.” You felt happy to say that. “Before all this, I crash landed to earth and the government took me in, branding me the name of JG050203. But the scientist who raised me was named Grace, she gave me the nickname Sunflower. All my life I was raised in a lab, not really seeing the outside world up until recently.” You weren’t so you wanted to continue.

“Please we want to hear everything.” Dr. John urged you.

“I was used like a lab rat all because of my mutation and how potent my blood is. I met Bob in a lab in Malaysia where we were poked and prodded. But then we got stuffed into boxes like furniture for three years, we were asleep for three whole years until we woke up again in a bunker and we were saved by these guys here.”

Bob held your hand. “Sunny and I went through a lot but we always had each other.”

Yelena wiped her tears quickly, only to be patted by Alexei.

“How can we thank Grace for helping raise you?” Elaine didn’t know any better.

“You can’t…because she’s dead.” You sighed.

“Oh honey I’m so sorry.” She regretted it quickly.

“It’s alright. I saw her again recently but it was only for a moment.” You took a sip of your water. “I don’t know anything about Jean except for what she was.”

“We’ll gladly fill in those gaps for you.” She let her husband do the talking.

The team was listening intently how when Jean got her powers and it was frightening. “It was even harder to let Jean go to the special school with professor Xavier. He told us it was best for her and her growing powers.”

“As she got older, she’d come home and show us her new family, a team just like this one. Her boyfriend Scott was kind also.” Elaine remembered them fondly.

“But then the visits got sparse but we understood because she had a responsibility. We didn’t know how severe everything became when one of her friends told us she had disappeared from earth.” John sighed.

“We prayed every night that maybe she’d come home and she’d be ok. Instead our prayers were answered in a different way with you honey.” Elaine smiled at you.

You were taking it all in, your birth mother was loved and missed by so many people that you didn’t know. “Wow…”

“I know you it’s a lot but maybe in time, you’d see us as family.” She had hope.

“I just don’t want anything to happen to you guys…Grace died because of me and I’d rather die a thousand times than let anything happen to you both.” You frowned.

“Jean worried the same way you are now. We know how to keep ourselves safe and we don’t necessarily advertise ourselves.” John smiled a bit.

“And you know we won’t let Valentina use this against you.” Bucky assured you.

“Ok.” You continued eating, sharing more fun facts about yourself. “I love funnel cakes also watching movies every night after dinner. I went to the beach for the first time a couple weeks ago so that’s a plus.”

“She’s a really down to earth girl who’d save others before herself.” Bob interjected.

“Plus she’s an amazing cook.” Walker added to it.

“And she’s a brave fighter.” Ava smiled.

“And a great friend.” Yelena also smiled at you.

“Aww you guys…” You blushed.

“She is the center of our group that keeps us together.” Alexei topped it off.

“I’m glad you grew up to be such a bright young lady.” Elaine was happy that you had good people to surround yourself with.

After dinner, dessert was shared along with coffee for those who enjoyed coffee. You were helping your grandma with the dishes while your grandpa was sharing a story with the rest of the group.

Bob was helping as well, he didn’t like to be far from you.

“So where are you from Bob?” Elaine asked.

“Sarasota, Florida. Ma’am.” He stacked the plates.

“Oh how nice! We have a beach house in Florida for when the winters get too cold.” She turned off the water. “I’d like to give you a tour of the house honey plus have a private chat.”

“Of course.” You nodded. “Will you be ok to sit on the couch, Bobby?”

He nodded. “I will.” He kissed your head.

When the dishes were dried and put away, you followed Elaine. “She’s giving me a tour and we’re gonna chat privately.” You looked at Bucky.

“We’ll be right here kid.” Bucky continued listening to your grandpa, seeing Bob take a spot on the couch.

She took your hand. “Did you ever meet Jean?” She said a little quietly.

“No ma’am…I was a baby when they found me and the scientist said it is likely that she’s gone.” You hated to break that to her.

“It’s ok. I’m glad wherever she was, she had you.” She kissed your hand. “So how long have you and Bob been together?”

“For a solid year.” You blushed and stopped when she did to look at the pictures from all the years. “Is this my mom?”

“Yep it is.” It was a lot pictures from different periods of her life from a little girl to a teenager to a young adult. “Are there any pictures of you somewhere?”

You shook your head. “I don’t think anyone had the foresight to take pictures of me. If there were any, they must’ve been destroyed during the liquidation process.” You noticed in one of the baby pictures, the baby blanket you had at the tower was in frame.

“Oh…” She still felt so awful that you lived a life like that. “Maybe when it’s closer to the holidays, we can do a family portrait together.”

“I’d love that actually, I’ve seen those in movies and always wanted to do one.” You smiled.

“This blanket here.” You pointed to it. “They found me in it.”

“Really?!” She went wide eyed. “Years ago I had noticed it went missing and I felt awful that I didn’t turn up anywhere.”

“Next time I visit, I can bring it to you because it’s still intact, maybe a little burnt on the edges but still good.” You smiled.

“No honey you keep it, if your mom wrapped you in it, it belongs to you now and maybe you’ll pass it along to your babies.”

You blushed. “Maybe…I never thought about having a family of my own since being an Avenger and being in the public eye.”

“If and when it happens, it’ll be a wonderful experience.” She held your hand.

Bob’s anxiety was kicking in, he was bouncing his leg up and down which made John pause his story.

“Are you alright son?” He looked at him with concern.

“I-I’m ok.” Bob stopped for a second.

“He just misses his sunshine girl is all, he can’t be apart from her or anything.” Walker explained.

“I assure you she’s safe here.” John continued the story.

He drowned out the story and heard Void talking to him.

“You know there’s something wrong…but as always you’re not going to do anything about it. Typical.” Void scoffed.

“But she’s safe here…there’s nothing bad here!” Bob raised his voice mentally.

“Fine. Be a coward that you always are.”

“I don’t want to ruin this for her! She finally has her family.”

“You’re her family, I’m her family, we’re all she needs! Not these people who just happened to call just because they saw her on the news.”

“Stop it.”

Bob shook his head and felt Walker’s hand on his shoulder. “You ok Bobby?”

“He’s talking to me…but I’m ignoring him.” Bob looked at him.

“If we need to step outside we can.” He offered.

“No I’m ok, I don’t want to ruin the visit.” He said softly.

“You won’t. If you need air please tell me.” Walker implored him.

“Ok.” Bob took a deep breath. “Yeah I think I need air.”

“Mind if we go sit out on the patio, Mr. Grey?” Walker stood up.

“Sure! Just through the sliding door.” He got up to unlock it for them. “Need any water Bob?”

“If it’s not too much trouble.” Bob immediately went out to take in the fresh air.

“It’s not son.” He got Bob a glass of water from the pitcher. “Here, just take small sips.”

Bucky looked at Walker, simply nodding to keep vigilant. He was ready to cut the visit right then and there but went against his better judgment.

He looked at the rest of the team, they were also on edge. Things could go south if they weren’t careful.

Elaine brought you into Jean’s room, “she’d come home for visits and stay over but when she was a full time hero, we’d be lucky to get dinner with her.” She turned on the light for you.

You took it all in, this was a time capsule of how your mom lived. “Hi mom…” You picked up a framed photo of her.

She let you have a moment. “I have a feeling she loved you a lot to send you back home.”

“I like to think that everyday.” You wiped your eyes. “Sorry…”

“Don’t be sorry honey. Please take a look and if you like something, you can have it.” She urged you.

“Ok.” You put the picture frame down and walked by the desk, a necklace caught your attention as it was really pretty. The moment it touched your fingers, your body went rigid, falling with a hard thunk.

“SUNNY!!” Elaine screamed and that’s all Void needed to hear. She got on the floor to bring you into her arms. “What’s wrong honey?!”

“I told you Bob.”

Chapter Text

Bucky leapt into action and went to the bedroom, seeing Elaine cradling you. Your eyes were blank, your body trembling, but your hand was clutching onto the necklace like your life depended on it. “C’mon kid snap out of it! Sunny can you hear me?!”

Void completely surfaced and he was walking slowly into the house, his darkness was spreading once again. “I told you Bob…you never listen.”

“Elaine!” John was about to get in front of Void but Alexei pulled him out of the way.

“Don’t go near him for your safety!” He held him back.

“What is that?!” John was freaked out and rightfully so.

“Bob’s other self, it’s his inner darkness that comes and it’s tied to Sunny’s safety.” Walker put it together pretty quickly.

Ava activated her suit and went through the walls to get to the room. “We got Void incoming, Bucky.”

“Shit.” Bucky tried to bring you back. “Kid if you can hear me, Void is out! I know you can put him back but you have to wake up before we become shadows!”

All three of them looked down the hallway only to see the two pinhole eyes and the silhouette of Bob.

He walked slowly on purpose as he enjoyed the fear. “Coming here was a bad idea…what do these people know about our Sunny? Absolutely nothing. They only care because she’s a woman who looks like their dead daughter.”

Elaine was horrified and she looked at Bucky. “Can’t you stop him?!”

He only shook his head as he tried waking you up. “Sunny c’mon girl!”

“Pathetic.” Void was halfway down the hallway.

You were reliving a strong memory attached to the necklace, keeping you locked in place as you were watching your mother holding back the water to save her family on the jet.

The spray of the water was cold but she was unlocking every ounce of her power to keep the water at bay, simultaneously lifting the jet.

“Jean don’t do this! Please don’t do this!” Scott was begging and pleading.

“It’s the only way…goodbye.” Professor Xavier was being used as a mouthpiece for Jean.

“No!! Jean!!” Scott cried out for her.

When the jet had enough clearance, Jean felt relief as her powers enveloped her in a fiery hue. She let go and let the water take her.

“She’s gone…she’s gone.” Logan felt his eyes burning with tears. He loved her but knew Scott was mourning even harder.

Scott fell to his knees only to be held by Logan as he cried.

The memory switched when the necklace was washed up on the lake shore. Scott had found it but he also found Jean yet it wasn’t Jean. Something else had taken her place. Scott also noticed she was heavily pregnant.

“I-I can take you home! And we can take you to the hospital to be looked at…you know for the baby!” Scott couldn’t believe that she was alive.

“I can’t go home…” Jean put her hand on her stomach. “I have to leave.” She could feel the baby inside her move slightly. It was nearly time.

“N-No you can’t! Jean you’re gonna have a baby! Is it my baby?” Scott was trying to put the timeline together quickly but it wasn’t fitting.

“I don’t know.” She felt a wince of pain of labor, her flames igniting once more. “Don’t come looking for me.” She took off in a fiery fashion, leaving Scott still clutching the necklace in his hands.

The memory switched one last time to where Scott came to Jean’s childhood home to drop off the necklace. He was numb, lost, and in mourning.

“Jean fought bravely but we don’t know where she is. Or if she’ll come back.” Scott put the necklace in Elaine’s hand, he decided to leave the part where she was pregnant.

That would’ve been too much for her parents to handle.

Elaine couldn’t help but cry. “I know she’ll come back…she has to.”

John could only hold his wife as he too was tearing up. “Thank you, son.”

“I better go.” Scott sniffed hard. “If anything comes up, I’ll let you know.”

“Take care ok? Our door is always open.” John kept that line open for him.

Void was in the doorway, about to raise his hand to Elaine. “Get away from her. Now!” The darkness spreading in the room like mold.

Elaine only clutched you harder to protect you. “No! Leave us alone!”

Yelena threw something at the back of Void’s head. “Bob don’t!! That’s her family!”

Void whipped his head around. “You really think that’ll stop me? We’re her family!”

“Don’t hurt them.” Your voice broke through. “Please…” You reached out for him.

Ava took Elaine away from you and Bucky stepped aside while Void knelt down to hold you in his arms. “Who hurt you…”

“No one.” You reached up to touch his face, feeling exhausted. “I’m sorry I worried you but you need to go back inside.”

“No…I don’t want to leave you.” Void held you tightly, looking into your brilliant eyes. “Please don’t make me.” He pressed forehead to yours.

Elaine couldn’t believe that sweet Bob had such a darkness hidden inside him and it was out in the open. It frightened her a lot.

Your flames came out slowly like wisps. “My shadow it’s ok. Please give me back Bob and we can go home.”

Void dared to give you a kiss in that moment as the darkness melted away, giving way to Bob.

“What happened?” Bob looked around the room.

You barely could keep your eyes open as you passed out, finally letting go of the necklace. You were mentally drained as it took a toll on you.

“We’re going home.” Bucky stood up. “I can take her Bob.”

He only nodded, seeing Elaine’s frightened face made him want to throw up. “He came out didn’t he?”

Ava only nodded as she helped Elaine up.

“I-I’m sorry…I’m so sorry.” He tried not to cry.

“Honey don’t be sorry.” Elaine tried to comfort him with words.

Walker helped him up from the floor. “It’s ok c’mon. He was just trying to protect Sunny.”

“I messed it up…I always ruin it.” He said quieter, breaking Walker’s heart all over again.

Bucky picked you up with ease. “We’ll call you when we’re back at the tower and I’m sure she’ll want to talk.” He put the necklace in his pocket for safekeeping.

Everyone filed out of the room and John grabbed hold of Elaine. “Are you ok?”

“Yes honey I’m ok.” She nodded. “I’m just worried about Sunny…she touched Jean’s necklace and she fell to the floor.”

“We’ll get to the bottom of this because this is new to us.” Yelena assured her.

“I’m sorry…” Bob looked at Elaine.

She went up to him, placing her hand to his cheek. “You were only wanting to protect her, that is nothing to be sorry for.”

Bucky carried you to the car, still unconscious, he made sure you were comfortable as he held you. He was worried at what caused this in the first place.

John and Elaine watched as the car left, hoping you would be ok and Bob too. They hoped you would come back to them even for a visit.

“She’s more like our Jean than I thought.”

The ride back to the tower was quiet and an awkwardness hung in the air. When the team made it home, it was to the medical floor for the both of you.

You were hooked up to monitors to track your brain activity, everything seemed stable for now.

The lead physician sat down with Bucky. “What happened exactly?”

“Sunny was in another room with her grandmother and we heard Elaine scream. I went to investigate and I saw her on the floor all rigid but her eyes were open, her face looked like she was in pain.” Bucky took out the necklace.

“We’ll examine this further.” They held out a cup for him to put the necklace in just to be safe.

Walker and Yelena were nearby while Bob was being checked out for a quick exam. The poor nurse was moving swiftly to not keep Bob in longer than he had to be.

“Who do we turn to for this?” Walker crossed his arms.

“I don’t know…anyone or anything involved with their projects are dead or incinerated.” She sighed.

Bucky came out of the room and walked over to them. “How’s Bob?”

“He’s stiff as a board but the nurse is moving quick to let him go.” Walker looked at him. “How’s she doing?”

“Still unconscious but her brain activity is stable. I gave them the necklace and they’re gonna test it.” He sighed.

“You think it’s a new power?” Yelena asked.

“Maybe I’m not sure.” Bucky decided to call Mel because he sure as hell wasn’t going to call Valentina.

Mel answered. “Hey Bucky? Is everything ok?”

“Listen I know it’s late and I’m sorry but we have a bit of situation right now.” He explained what happened but left the part out where Void came out. He knew Bob was already feeling bad enough.

“Oh my God is she ok?!” She sounded concerned for you.

“She’s stable for now but if there’s anything out there left from her project, anything at all can you track it down? Please?”

Mel knew it would be difficult but agreed. “Give me a couple days and I’ll get in touch with you.”

“Thank you, Mel.” He hung up, dialing Elaine’s number.

Elaine picked up immediately. “Hello Mr. Barnes! How is she?”

“She’s stable and they’re keeping her in the infirmary until she wakes up on her own.” He was watching Bob from the window.

“Ok. How’s Bob?” She wanted to know if the poor boy was ok.

“He’s shaken up but it’s to be expected. He’s still apologizing for what happened.” He sighed.

“Tell him he has nothing to be sorry for, we’d be hypocrites if we turned our backs to him. It’s not his fault that his powers are unpredictable.” She could only remember how scared Jean was when her powers manifested and it scared everyone.

“I’ll pass on the message and I’ll let you know when Sunny wakes up.” He saw Bob was being discharged. “We’ll talk soon, Elaine.”

“Thank you, Mr. Barnes.” She hung up.

Bob was released from the room and he was glad to be out of the room. “Where’s Sunny?”

“She’s in her room, they’re keeping her overnight just to be safe until she wakes up on her own.” Bucky looked at him. “You want me to take you to her?”

Bob nodded and followed him, he let out a soft sigh. “Can I sleep here with her?”

“Yeah you can just be careful with her wires.” He watched him make space for himself and he held you close, he was crying quietly.

“I called Elaine to update her on Sunny and she asked about you too.” He pulled up a chair.

“S-She did?” He sniffed hard. “Why?”

“Because she knows how it feels to see someone she cares for with unpredictable powers. She cares for you and Sunny equally.” He nodded.

“It’s weird…having someone else care about me like that.” He sighed.

“It takes some getting use to kid but the support is there for you always.” He got up from the chair and dimmed the room lights.

A day and a half went by, tests were done on the necklace but nothing came from it. It was an ordinary necklace. The doctor said there may have been a piece of energy left from Jean that no one else could feel except for you, explaining the violent nature of the reaction.

Bucky was checking on you when you were starting to wake up. “Welcome back kid.”

“Is everyone ok?” You slowly sat up in bed. “Void didn’t hurt anyone right?”

“No, you stopped him before he could do anything.” He pulled up a chair. “What happened when you were in the room with your grandma?”

“I touched a necklace that belonged to my birth mom and all of a sudden I’m thrusted back into a memory of hers that I couldn’t get out of. I felt and saw everything she felt then it switched to her boyfriend Scott. I felt his sadness and suffering from losing my mom.” You looked at your hands. “She was a hero until the very end but something took her place, she wasn’t the same anymore.”

Bucky offered his metal hand to you instead of his human one and you took it without question, only for a memory to rush to your head of him in Wakanda.

He was sitting in front of the fire crying as Ayo was repeating his trigger words. The words had no pull in his mind anymore and the relief was palpable. He didn’t have to be afraid of those words anymore.

The machines were went haywire for a moment as it was recording your brain waves in that instant but then it calmed down when you came out of it. Tears instantly started coming down your face.

“B-Bucky…you were in so much pain…I saw you in front of the fire crying.” You sniffled.

Bucky was in shock all over again. “You saw me in Wakanda. They did a lot of work on me to be deprogrammed from being the Winter Soldier.” He squeezed your hand. “I’m so sorry you had to see that but we’re gonna get you the help you need ok? I promise you.”

You nodded and gave him a hug, sniffling into his shoulder. “I wish my mom was still here, she knew me better than anyone. Always kept writing in her journals about me.”

“She did? Do you know if she kept spare copies lying around?” He rubbed your back.

“I-I think so? I remember she took some with her to a conference and I never saw them again.” You took deep breaths to calm yourself down. “Thank you Bucky…”

“Anything for you, kid.” He let go of you. “I’m gonna see if we can get you discharged so you can come back upstairs with us.”

“Ok.” You nodded and saw him walk out.

Bucky sent a message to Yelena before going to talk to the nurse.

“When you make it to the compound, look for any journals, digital or paper.”

Yelena messaged back.

“Copy.”

Bob was picking at his food, taking small bites to satisfy his hunger. He could hear you in his head saying to eat up so he wouldn’t be grouchy before lunch.

Yelena, Ava, and Alexei were out on a short mission courtesy of Mel getting access to the lab/bunker you were raised in. So it was just him and John in the residential area. Yelena told Bob to keep her posted on you and he said he would.

John came in to pour himself a cup of coffee. “How are you doing Bob?”

“Ok? I guess.” He took another bite of his ham and eggs.

He sipped his coffee and sighed. “You’re gonna back down and see her?”

“Mhmm.” He managed to eat the rest of his breakfast before getting up to wash his plate.

“If you need anything just let me know ok?” He watched him.

“Yeah…also thank you for the other day.” He looked at him.

“Of course.” He nodded, seeing Bob off to the elevators.

Bob pressed the medical floor and held his hands together.

“She’s awake.” Void said.

“How do you know?” Bob looked over his shoulder, seeing him vaguely in the reflection of the elevator.

“If you’d concentrate long enough you’d feel her energy, coward.”

Bob looked away when the doors opened. He took deep breaths, allowing his other senses to open, he could feel you were awake. He couldn’t help but to run to your room. “Sunny!”

“Hi Bob.” You were so happy to see him as a nurse was taking off the sensors from your head. “Can you wait outside for me?”

“S-Sure yeah!” He went back out, shutting the door.

The nurse smiled a bit. “You were right.”

“I know and that’s what scares me.” You were happy to be discharged and go back to the norm, at least attempt to.

“I’ll let you get changed Ms. Grey and we’ll see out there.” She was all done with you.

“Thank you.” You gladly changed out of the hospital gown and into the clothes Bob had left for you the night before, one of your favorite t-shirts, sweats, and one of his sweaters.

You came out and you were instantly wrapped in his arms. “How long was I out for?”

“Almost two days.” He rested his head on your shoulder. “What happened?”

“We can talk about it soon I promise.” You kissed his cheek. “Right now I’m just itching to be back upstairs with everyone else.”

“Yelena, Alexei, and Ava are gone on a mission.” He mumbled.

“So it’s us with Bucky and John. That’s fine.” You gave him one more kiss. “How are you feeling?”

“Better now. I didn’t mean for him to get out…he said he wanted to protect you, that we were all the family you needed.” He looked into your eyes.

“Well he’s wrong about that, yes I need you and him but we work with a team that I look to as my family. Plus with the addition of my birth mom’s parents, our family keeps growing.” You looked back into his eyes, seeing the glint of Void, meaning he was listening.

Bob’s head got quiet and he was relieved. “I think he understands.”

“Good. Whatever this new power is, I will be leaning on everyone because it’s terrifying.” You were honest with him.

“I was scared I was losing you all over again.” He pressed his forehead against yours.

“I’m not going anywhere, I want all of you to know this.” You held his hands tightly.

“We know.” He nodded.

Meanwhile, Yelena was treading carefully around your old home. It was like a lab but on the inside it was designed like a home. It was dusty all over and not many things were moved since you were taken from here to Malaysia.

Alexei noticed your mother’s old desk, there were a couple of framed pictures, one of you as a baby, the other was you being held by Grace as a toddler. “I found something to take back to the little bird.” He picked the framed up, hearing a small rattle on the inside.

Interesting.

He carefully lifted the tabs of the frame away from the cardboard backing, between the photo and the backing was a small chip. “I believe I have found something.”

Ava came over to look at it. “A chip? It looks like it belongs to something else.”

“Bucky said that the journals could be physical or digital, maybe this is the in between.” Yelena was looking around some more until she came into your old room. It was frozen in time, there were books on the shelf varying from picture books to more complex things.

She could picture you being loved and cared for here and how your mother tried to protect you from being a slave to Valentina. It happened but they broke that shackle thankfully.

She left the room the way it was, there wasn’t anything worth taking back to you. “Nothing in Sunny’s room.”

“Look at her when she was a little клецки (dumpling).” Alexei showed her your baby picture.

“We’ll take it back with us. I think we’re done here.” Yelena was ready to go.

“Let’s go.” Ava was right behind her.

The quintet was primed for home, with the autopilot engaged, Yelena had time to check her phone. A message from Bob made her smile. “Sunny’s awake and she’s back on the house floor.”

“That’s good to hear.” Ava was also relieved, not having you around while you in the infirmary made it oddly quiet like there wasn’t something missing.

You were relaxing on the couch, watching a movie as part of your strict rest order from Bucky. Limited power usage and being careful not to touch anything that belonged to you or anyone on the team.

Bob brought over your favorite snack and drink. “Here you go.”

“Thank you Bobby.” You smiled happily, tearing open the package to take the first few bites.

“What part of the movie are we at?” He sat next to you.

“This is where Ellie see’s her dad again but it’s actually the alien taking that form as a comfort to her.” You loved your sci-fi movies especially the ones about space.

“Whoa…” Bob was always intrigued.

Your attention was pulled away when you heard the quinjet landing on the helipad. “They’re home!” You got up to greet them but stayed a safe distance.

Bucky came also, anxiously awaiting for the status update. He saw Alexei come off first. “Everything came out good?”

“Yes! Little bird we have a surprise for you!” He was so excited to show you.

“What is it?” You were eager.

He took out the framed photos. “Ta da!”

You looked at them, afraid to touch them so you let Bob grab them. “It’s me and my mom…oh my God how did you guys find these?!”

“Well Mr. Winter Soldier here with the help of Mel got us access to your old lab where you were raised to figure out what’s happening with your powers.” He nodded.

“It’s still standing?” You were surprised to hear that. “I thought they tore up everything after I was moved.”

“Not everything.” Yelena came over to give you a hug. “I’m glad you’re ok.”

“Thank you for doing this for me.” You held her tightly. “Did you guys find anything else?”

“We found a chip but it seems to be a part of a bigger set that we couldn’t find.” Ava answered.

“I’m not surprised…probably gone with the wind or something.” You felt like you hit a dead end.

Bucky had an idea that came to mind even if it went against his orders on you. “Maybe you could tap into it…maybe your mom left you something.”

“Are you sure?” You looked at him. “What happened to keeping my powers on the low.”

“I give you permission to disobey my orders.”

“Whatever you say Bucky.” You went inside to sit on the couch. “I’m gonna come out of it ok?” You looked at Bob.

“I trust you.” Bob was prepared.

You held your hand out and Alexei put the chip in your hand. Immediately you were taken back to when Grace had to go out of town for a conference. She met up with an old colleague that she was happy to see.

“Thanks for meeting me on short notice, Bruce. I know schedule can be hectic.” She smiled at him.

“It’s always a pleasure, Grace.” Bruce Banner smiled back. “What is it that you’re giving me?”

“Something important for my daughter. Just in case if something happens to me, these will answer her questions.” She put an incomplete flash drive in his hand.

“Is it broken?” He noticed a piece of it was missing.

“No, it’s just a precaution that if she ever starts looking, she can find you.” She looked at him.

“Are you in trouble, Grace?” He frowned.

“I’ve been in trouble, Bruce. But nothing can pull me out of it this time. Just promise me you’ll keep this safe.”

“I will.” Bruce promised her.

You came back out of it with an answer, you collected yourself before speaking. “How do we contact Bruce Banner?”

Chapter Text

Bucky decided to finally call Bruce after being given his number so long ago. Bruce always said he’d keep his line open if Bucky ever needed to talk as a friend or therapist. He dialed on a burner phone out of habit.

Bruce answered within a few rings. “Hello?”

“Hey Bruce…it’s Bucky.” He cleared his throat.

“Oh Bucky hey! Long time no talk huh?” He smiled to himself. “How can I help you?”

“There’s a couple things actually: I need to see you or rather we need to see you. I understand you were a friend to Dr. Grace Dalton.”

“Yes I was, last I heard from her was at a conference years ago.” Bruce was staying surface level. “It feels like forever ago.”

“She’s no longer with us.” He hated to break it to him. “I’m sorry.”

“Oh…” He felt deflated and took off his glasses. “Is her daughter dead too?”

“No, she’s alive and well and in our care. We need your help with her powers, but we can explain more in person.” Bucky hoped he’d say yes.

“I’ll drop you the coordinates, you still have the quinjet?”

“Yes we do.”

“I’ll see you soon.” Bruce hung up and dropped the coordinates as promised.

Bucky was happy and he saw everyone at the dinner table like always. “Sorry for keeping you waiting.”

“It’s ok Bucky.” You made up his plate and passed it over to him.

“I got good news kid, I was able to get ahold of Bruce and he wants to meet you.” He saw you smile.

“That’s great! I can’t wait to meet a friend of my mom.” You were more hopeful.

“A family field trip is what just what we need!” Alexei cheered.

“It’s not a field trip, this is serious business.” John sighed.

“I’m just trying to stay positive for the little bird is all.” He huffed.

“I appreciate it very much though.” You found it endearing. “When do we go?”

“We go early, pack an overnight bag just in case.” Bucky started eating. “Maybe two days.”

“Right.” You were excited to go but you could feel Bob’s anxiety about it. “After dinner we pack ok?” You put your hand on his.

“Yeah…” Bob was trying to stay positive for your sake but the walls in his mind were shaking.

It was John and Ava’s turn for dishes so you and Bob had the rest of the night to yourselves. You pulled out the duffel bag from the closet, packing your clothes. You instinctively packed Bob’s clothes as well. “Don’t forget your tooth brush.”

“I won’t.” He brought the extra one, putting it on top of everything. “What do you think this doctor Banner will tell you?”

“Hopefully he’ll tell me how to control this new power or something. I can’t be hiding my hands from everything forever.” You looked at him.

“How do we know that he won’t sell us out?” He sat on the edge of the bed.

“I don’t think he would, if he was my mom’s friend, he wouldn’t do that.” You zipped it up. “Besides we’re going together because I can’t leave you here, we’re a bonded pair.”

He decided to pull you onto his lap. “We’re mated for life like those birds we saw on that nature documentary.”

“You’d starve to death if anything happened to me?” You teased him lightly, cupping his face gently.

“Maybe.” He loved your touch, kissing the palm of your left hand. “I love you so much.”

“I love you more.” You were about to get off him but he kept you in place. “Bob?” You saw his eyes shining but they didn’t belong to Void but to Sentry.

“No.” He brought you in for a kiss. “I never told you how sorry I was for hurting you, my Phoenix.”

You could feel the energy behind the kiss, it wasn’t threatening at all like the first time he kissed you like this when you were both under Valentina’s thumb.

“Please let me make it up to you.” He slid his hands underneath your shirt, undoing your bra easily.

You shuddered when he took your shirt off in one fell swoop, exposing your tits to the cold air of the room. “This is the same position we started in for our first time together.”

“That was with Bob, you haven’t been with me yet.” He kissed the valley of your breasts, moving upwards to your neck. “You’re mine for now.” He whispered in your ear.

“Show me what you can do, Sentry.” You decided to his true name which stroked his ego nicely. “But if you step out of line…” Your eyes shined to match his, “I will throw you out the window for your mistreatment.”

“And I’d come back on my knees to beg for your forgiveness.” He nipped at your skin. “My Phoenix…” he shifted your hips to make you feel the hard on that was growing in his sweat pants. “You do this to me.”

You didn’t need to use your words for what you wanted, you made it very clear as you rocked your hips slowly, feeling your panties growing damp.

He smirked knowing that you’d come undone so easily for him. He met you halfway, pushing his clothed cock into your center. “I bet you’d feel divine on me.”

You gasped when kept doing it, he was rubbing you in the right place, he kept going as he watched you descend into pleasure. “Sentry…Sentry!” He felt you shaking but then the warmth that came out of you felt good on him.

“There now my light.” He put you on the bed, removing your panties, “you made a mess of these.” He licked the wet spot without even blinking. “Mmm I was right…you taste good. Can you give me more?”

“Bobby please!” You turned red and covered your face. “I mean Sentry.”

“Wrong name.” He said lowly, gripping your ankles and pulling them a part.

“I corrected myself and you said you were making up to me.” You had a thought of kicking him in the face. “Don’t be harsh with me now.”

“Right. You’re right I’m sorry my love.” He loosened his grip, kissing your knee as he rested your leg over his shoulder.

“Good.” You watched his head disappear between your legs, feeling his tongue parting your lips effortlessly. “Mmm!” Your hand rested in his hair.

He stayed down there, giving you the pleasure you deserved with his expert tongue, the tugging on his hair proved he was doing something right. He came back up after three more orgasms. “Ready for more?”

“Yes…” You felt him pull you to the edge of the bed while he stood up nice and tall on solid ground.

He decided to forgo the condom, he wanted to feel everything. He aligned himself before sliding all the way in, hearing you whine as you were being stretched around him.

He held you by the waist, not moving until you were ready. He’d been under the surface this whole time just watching and observing your tastes, he’d seen what his counterparts could do, but he could do better.

He wanted your attention the way you’d give it to Bob or Void so easily. Now he had it in the most intimate way possible. When you nodded, he started moving his hips at a steady pace, watching your body bounce with each movement. “Your body is truly made of stars! You’re too good to be from here.”

You felt flattered by his words and looked into his golden eyes. “But I’m here with you aren’t I?” You were digging your heels into the mattress. “Fuck!!”

“Because you were chosen for me.” He used his mind to lift your body so he could hold you close. “Wrap your legs around me.”

You felt odd at not being in control of your own movements but you obeyed his command, wrapping your arms and legs around him.

The position of his arms and hands were familiar to you and it took you back to when Bob first took flight, you protected his head as you two crashed into the earth.

Even in this position you were still bouncing on his cock, whimpering in his ear. “S-Sentry! Please!” Your orgasm nearing once more.

He grabbed your hair gently, pulling your head back to expose your neck for kisses, a stark contrast to how he treated you in the very beginning. He nipped at your skin but not hard enough to leave a mark.

Senty’s gaze was unwavering as you came on his cock, his own orgasm creeping up. “I should cum inside you…think about how beautiful our children will be!”

“Sentry no!” You shook your head. “Not yet!” You looked at him with pleading eyes. “Don’t you fucking dare!”

He only smirked. “I won’t. At least not yet.” He let go of you, letting you plop on the bed while he pulled out to finish on your tits.

You were coming down from your high, feeling Sentry picking you up bridal style, taking you to the bathroom. “What are you doing?”

“We’re going to shower together.” He started the water. “As much as I’d love for you to wear my mark, I can’t have my goddess be dirty.”

“Alright.” You let him bathe you, his touch was gentle as he washed your body. His kisses never stopped, kissing you every chance he got. “I love you more than life itself.”

“Sentry.” You blushed. “You mean that?”

“I do. If it were up to me, we would be married and not living with the rest of the team.” He declared.

“I never thought that before.” You half lied.

“I’ve seen your thoughts my love, when you watch those romantic movies while Bob is so focused on whatever book he’s reading. You want that normal life with a house, marriage, a regular job.”

“But we can’t have that…we’re meant to be heroes and save others.” You felt him shut off the water.

“Just say the word and we leave.” He lifted your head to him.

“As much as I’d love to, I made a promise to my family that we’d stay together no matter what.” You gave him a kiss.

He taken back by your loyalty and he respected that. “Where you stay, I’ll stay to. I remain loyal to you.” He kissed you back.

He took you out of the shower and dried you off, carrying you to bed afterwards. He laid you down gently and laid next to you, he wanted to enjoy this before Bob would push him out.

You were holding his hand as he was stroking your hair gently. “You scared me you know…with that fight we had.”

“I was blinded and I did the thing I swore I’d never do.” Sentry kissed your head. “You were only doing your duty.”

“Are we on the same side then?” You looked into his eyes.

“For you, always.” He could feel Bob wanting to come back, he closed his eyes for a moment and his eyes were back to normal.

“Did we…?” Bob was turning red.

“Yes.” You gave him a kiss. “I can go again if you want a turn.”

“Yes!” He didn’t hesitate this time and ripped the blanket off of you, spreading your legs once again, groaning as he entered you. “Fuck…”

You whined at being full of him again. “Bobby…” You felt him putting all his weight on you as you wrapped your arms around his neck. “Fuck me Bobby!”

He held you close to him, his thrusts were slow but had force behind them. “I love you…I love you so fucking much!” Luckily the bed was reinforced this time so he didn’t have to worry about holding back.

“Don’t stop! Don’t stop!” You dug your nails into his skin, he was hitting you at the right angle.

He grunted lowly in your ear, but he turned your head to hide his face into your neck, the sound of skin smacking echoed in the room as he picked up the pace. He was being selfish in this moment because Sentry took over without any warning.

“You’re mine! Mine!” He mumbled in between moans, trying not to be loud.

“I’ve always been yours!” You panted as the familiar coil was tightening up. “I-I’m close!”

He couldn’t stay in you, he had to pull out after you’d cum on his cock. “C’mon baby! C’mon!”

You let out a pathetic whimper as you felt yourself cum, your walls keeping him in a vice. “A-Ah!!” Your legs locking him in pace.

“I-I gotta pull out!” He was teetering on the edge.

You loosened your grip on him, feeling empty when he did pull out. You watched him pump himself to fruition, your stomach being painted by him.

He caught his breath and admired his handy work. “You ok?”

“Yeah…never better.” You felt he was more at ease. “You’re the best thing to ever happen to me.”

He smiled softly. “I can say the same about you.” He got up from the bed to get a towel to clean you up. He was quick but efficient because he noticed the time. “We have to be up in a few hours.”

“We can sleep on the way there.” You yawned. “Come cuddle.”

He tossed the dirty towel in the hamper for now and went into your arms, liking the way you were a bit colder than he was. You two passed out not long after for the few precious hours.

The call time was early early by Bucky’s standards. You were up and moving a bit slower while loading up your bag.

“You pack everything kid?” Bucky made sure it was strapped in.

“Yes sir I did.” You yawned. “I didn’t think everyone was coming.” You saw the team moving in slowly.

“We’re all in this together and we want to know how we can help you when Bruce figures it out.” He gave your shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

“Thanks Bucky.” You smiled at him.

John had made coffees for everyone that drank it. “Here we go.” He started passing them out.

Ava gladly took it. “Thanks.” She took a few sips to perk up.

“No problem.” John passed one to Bucky, then Alexei, and lastly Yelena.

“Did you use the vanilla blend?” Alexei asked.

“Yes I did.” John handed you a smoothie blend. “There you go Arizona.”

“Mango and banana?” You happily took it.

“Of course. I’ll just hang onto Bob’s.” He saw him slumped over in his chair, asleep.

“That’s fine.” You sipped your smoothie through the straw, making sure he was strapped in.

When everyone was in, Bucky set the coordinates for Bruce’s island. “When we get there, be respectful, and no touching no anything.”

“Yes, sir.” Yelena was definitely gonna touch something.

You decided to call shotgun next to Bucky, strapping yourself in. “Ready whenever you are.”

Bucky lifted off before initiating the autopilot. “I know it’s not as nice as you flying.”

“No this is nice! Besides I don’t think I’d be able to carry everyone.” You chuckled. “I’d only carry Ava and Yelena. So what’s Bruce Banner like?”

“Your mom never mentioned him?” He was surprised.

“No, she kept a lot of secrets.” You sipped your smoothie.

“Well he’s a very accomplished scientist, smartest man I know, plus he’s the Hulk and he was an Avenger.” He gave you the basics.

“The big green guy?” You saw a couple pictures of him in the newspapers you’d get at the old house to do the crossword puzzles with your mom.

“Yep that’s him.” He checked on the navigation system for a moment.

“Cool.” You watched out the window, seeing the clouds pass you by as the ship climbed in altitude.

Sleep took over so you ended up snoozing in your chair. The ride was smooth and Bob woke up halfway through to check up on you while Bucky was on his phone.

“She’s sleeping Bob.” He said gently.

“Ok.” He touched your cheek sweetly. “Just wanted to make sure she was ok.”

“You ever think about what life could be like for you two?” Bucky asked.

“Kinda…I just want to be able to protect her on my own, be the one she can lean on and not the other way around. She does so much for me.” He gently moved your hair out of your face.

“Maybe we can start you on training, self defense skills, small steps to get you comfortable with it.” He offered.

“I’ll think about it.” Bob saw the ocean coming into view. “Where are we?”

“Off the pacific coast of Mexico. A special hideout gifted to Bruce from an old friend.” He started the landing sequence.

You woke up when you felt the quinjet descending. “What did I miss?”

“Not much kid but we’re here.” Bucky could hear everyone else waking up.

You felt Bob’s hand on your shoulder. “You slept good?”

“Mhmm.” Bob smiled a bit and kept standing up until the quinjet touched the ground.

Bruce came out of his hideout to greet his old friend, he was most excited to see you.

The team poured out and the first to say hi was John. “Dr. Banner! A pleasure, sir.”

“Uhh hi? Who are you?” Bruce had no idea who he was which was good news for John, one less person to look down on him.

“I’m John Walker but I’m U.S Agent.” He went to shake his hand.

Bruce shook his hand. “Never heard of you.”

“That’s ok! We brought Sunny for you.” He pointed you out to him.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Dr. Banner.” You smiled at him.

“I’m glad to finally meet you. Your mom always told me you were a good kid, a very special kid.” He shook your hand gently, seeing more people behind you. “I should’ve bought more snacks…”

“It’s ok Bruce, we’ll do a supply run later.” Bucky came over.

“Glad you all made it safely, c’mon let’s get inside.” Bruce led the way. “So do you have the chip?”

“Yeah!” Bucky took it out of his pocket.

“Great!” Bruce looked around on his desk and opened a drawer. “Here it is, so what’s been going on?”

“Well, recently paid a visit to my birth mom’s house and met up with my grandparents. Elaine gave me a tour of the house and I touched a necklace that belonged to Jean and I got sent into a frozen like state, reliving her memories and feeling what she was feeling in that moment.” You looked at him.

“Same thing happened when she touched my other hand, she saw me in Wakanda.” Bucky vouched for you.

“And you haven’t experienced it since?” Bruce put the chip in with the rest of it, completing the set before putting into the computer.

“I tried not to touch anything else because it makes me tired and overwhelmed plus it scares the shit out of everyone.” You felt Bob’s hand find yours. “Especially him.”

“We’ll get to the bottom of it but I will run tests on you,” Bruce saw it was password protected, he ran it through an encryption key to figure it out. “This should take a minute or two.”

“What kind of tests?” Bob asked him.

“I got some items that are charged with memory and I’ll map out your brainwaves when you’re in that state. But you’re safe here and if this place can withstand me, it should withstand you.” Bruce nodded.

“I don’t like it.” Bob whispered to you.

“Bobby I need you to trust me on this ok?” You looked at him. “I’m scared but I can’t go on living in fear of my powers.”

He fiddled with the computer and pulled up the extensive files that were stored all ranging in your ages as you grew up. Conveniently, under the file name, “Power Set”, he opened it up to skim through the information.

“Sunflower showed signs of Psychometry at the age of eight, her brainwaves showed she would enter a trance like state but surface within a couple minutes with detailed information of the object we presented to her. They wanted me to give her a more harsh object but I declined as it would traumatize her.” Bruce read it out loud.

“Age twelve, her psychometric powers are not present anymore strangely but will keep an eye on it.” You read the next paragraph. “We believe some powers go dormant while new ones surface as she matures. It will need a strong trigger to bring it to the surface once again.”

“Well that explains a lot.” Yelena commented. “Your mother’s necklace was the trigger.”

“Yeah…but how do I control it and not going through it all.” You kept skimming through it but it ended up to a certain point, you read the date and it was two weeks before she was killed in front of you.

“It’ll take some time but I have a few things up my sleeve, you’re already a step ahead with this great support system you got here.”

“That’s because we are the Avengers!!” Alexei victoriously announced. “We take care of our own.”

“You don’t have to announce to everyone we see!” John was annoyed.

“Avengers?” Bruce was confused. “Since when?!”

“We’ll talk about it later.” Bucky promised. “Just focus on Sunny.” He redirected the conversation.

“When do we start?” You looked at Bruce.

“Right now if you want to kid.” He saw Bob squeezing your hand.

“Bobby please trust me.” You stood in front of him and had him look at you in the eyes.

“What if you can’t come out of it?” He was worried about losing you like that.

“We’ll start with minor objects the same way she started when she was a child, then we’ll gradually move up and see.” He could tell the bond between you and Bob wasn’t something to be taken lightly.

“Is there something you two aren’t telling me?” He eyed you then looked at Bucky.

“Well, Bob here was experimented on with a cocktail of drugs mixed with Sunny’s blood and he has superpowers that nearly blacked out New York City.” Bucky decided to be upfront.

“And the only way we can put Bob back together again is if Sunny stays safe and unharmed.” John added.

“Oh my God…” Bruce rubbed his face. “No wonder you didn’t say everything on the phone Bucky.” He gave him a look.

“These two are tethered and his dark side is bonded to her light side.” Bucky crossed his arms.

“And the first time she entered the psychometric state, his other self came out?” He was putting it together.

“Yes and at the last second, she surfaced to put him back in.” Ava attested to it.

“Interesting.” Bruce did not doubt Bob, people made that same mistake with him. “We’ll work on you too after we get Sunny situated. So everyone get comfortable because we’re gonna be here awhile.”

Chapter Text

The testing room was set up and you were mentally preparing yourself for whatever you’d see, good or bad.

Yelena was watching Bruce setting up the parameters to record your brainwaves. “Will this help Sunny?”

“Yes. The more I can decipher and compare the scans to her old ones, it should give us some insight.” He looked at Yelena.

“How well did you know my sister?” She decided to ask about Nat.

“Natasha was my greatest friend even to the end. I loved her very much.” He stopped what he was doing. “Losing her was hard.”

“I know. I’m glad to finally be meeting you.” She nodded. “And thank for helping our friend, she’s the sunshine in our group.”

“I can tell.” Bruce saw Bob and you hanging out closely together. He gathered the materials for you to use and extract the memories from, leaving the last one in his pocket.

You were reading with Bob just to clear your mind. You remembered the mental exercises from your time in the lab as you entered that head space.

It was simple testing. No needles. No sedation. You were going to come out of this one in one piece. You were kissing Bob’s hand to soothe him. “I know you’re scared.”

“I’m trying not to be.” He sighed. “I know you’re a lot stronger than I am.”

“You’re strong in your own ways.” You turned to put your forehead against his forehead. “That’s what I love about you.”

He blushed. “Thanks.”

When everything was calibrated, Bruce was ready for you. He attached a couple of devices around your head to track your brain activity as well as your vitals. “How do you feel?”

“Nervous.” You took a seat in the middle of the room. “What’s first?”

“This.” It was a piece of Tony’s old suit before he made improvements.

“Alright.” You saw it was harmless enough so you took it, instantly diving into the memory.

Tony was frustrated and he put his tools down.

“Maybe we should take a break?” Bruce offered.

“I’ll rest when I’m dead.” Tony countered. “I know it’s on the edge of my tongue but it’s missing something, that umph.”

“Well maybe that umph will come after you had a decent meal instead of protein bars.” He sighed.

“I’ll order us a pizza then.” He pulled out his phone. “You want your usual?”

“Yes please.” Bruce wasn’t opposed to pizza. While on their lunch break, the solution hit Tony mid slice.

“I got it!” He quickly wiped his hands and got to work, everything was coming together seamlessly. He cut up his old suit, tossing the piece to Bruce. “Keep this as a trinket.”

“I guess?” Bruce couldn’t help but smile, putting it in his pocket.

You came out of it feeling a sense of accomplishment and you could taste the pizza. “You like sausage and mushrooms on your pizza Dr. Banner?”

“Fascinating.” Bruce wrote down how you picked up the finer details. “How are you feeling?”

“Like I should build myself suit. Tony seemed accomplished and happy.” You put it on the floor. “Something with umph.”

“You wanna keep going?” He watched you.

“Yes!” You gave him a thumbs up.

He came in with a different object in hand, one of Thor’s battle helmets he wore during their cage match on Sakaar.

“Ooo cool helmet.” You took it from him and instantly you could hear the roaring of the crowd.

You felt Thor’s emotions running high when saw Bruce come out from the green smoke. How he missed his friend from work.

The pain of getting smacked around wasn’t pleasant and wanted out of it, suddenly everything stopped and you blinked your eyes open. “Wow you really kicked Thor’s ass.”

“Well it wasn’t entirely my fault. How did you pull yourself out of it so quickly?” Bruce was back in his note pad, looking at your brain wave patterns, seeing that there was a spike before it came back down to normal.

“I don’t know…” You couldn’t explain yourself. “I just thought I needed to get out and everything stopped.”

“Ok I have one more object but it’s a powerful one. You think you can handle it?” He knew this was risky but if you found yourself out of the last memory, you’d probably find your way out of this one.

You looked at your friends, more so to Bob who was worried. “Yes I’m sure.”

“The little bird is strong!” Alexei was proud.

“I don’t like this.” John shook his head.

“We have to trust her.” Bucky looked at him.

“It’s not her I’m worried about.” John gestured to Bob who was fidgeting with his sleeves.

“If this place can handle the Hulk then it should be able to withstand him.” Ava said but with a hint of doubt in her voice.

Bruce took the bullet he kept in a lock box. To the regular person it seemed unassuming, just a normal bullet. It carried something from his darker days that he learned to heal from.

“Last chance kid, are you sure?” Bruce gave you the choice again.

“Yes.” You watched him set it in front of you so you waited for him to leave the room. You hesitated for a moment before taking it into your hand. You took a deep breath before closing your hand over it.

Your brain waves were off the charts as you descended into the memory. The gun was on the table and you could taste the shot of bourbon in Bruce’s mouth. A shot for courage before reaching for the gun.

The click of the safety echoed before he opened his mouth wide. He sharply inhaled before the bang .

The green man the mirror spat it out, the anger was overwhelming, the rage, the fear, the want for death’s sweet release. It was unattainable while Hulk resided inside. You can’t die Banner, as long as I’m in here, you stay alive because of me.

You wanted to scream for help but your mouth wasn’t moving. C’mon get out! Get out! Get out before Void comes out!

The pain was excruciating on the outside and you couldn’t get out of it, the lights flickered, your hand was bleeding from clutching the bullet so tightly.

You tried to find a way out, you tried to stop the pain but you were locked inside. Bruce’s emotions were overriding yours. Tears were streaming down your face.

Bob needed to do something. You needed help. Help. Help. Help her. Let me help her. LET ME HELP HER. LET ME HELP HER.

Slowly, Bob’s hair changed color and his eyes went from brown to their golden yellow hue. There was a shift in energy that was impossible to ignore.

All eyes were on Bob, everyone was frozen in place. Bruce finally looked over his shoulder to see that Bob changed. “Is this the one that blacked out the city?”

“No…It’s not.” Bucky swallowed hard.

“Bobby? You in there?” John took a couple steps forward.

“It’s Sentry.” His eyes shifted to the chamber you were kept in. “I’m only here for my Phoenix.” He started walking to the door, ripping it off its hinges effortlessly.

There was a small pool of blood forming from your hand and it made Sentry cringe. “My love I’m so sorry about this.” He took hold of your hand, breaking a couple of your fingers to release the bullet from your grip.

The snapping of your bones made everyone in the room go cold, then the clink of the bullet made everything stop. You were finally out of it as your mind cleared up, you felt pain in your hand. “What the fuck did you do?!”

“You wouldn’t let go of it so I had to force it out.” Sentry felt bad enough already, but the spontaneous punch the face wasn’t something he expected from you.

You broke your hand even more but slowly it started healing. “I need some air…” You couldn’t take two steps without your knees buckling.

Sentry stopped you from falling by using his powers and he carried you out. “We’ll get some air together.”

“Put me down!” You were pissed. “Fucking put me down!!”

“You’re weak! Let me take care of you!” He argued back, the automatic doors opened and closed behind you, leaving the team stunned while Bruce was just confused.

“So Sentry is…?” Bruce wanted answers.

“He’s the guy we fought and he wiped the floor with us, plus he snapped Sunny’s neck in front of us.” John spoke up.

“Oh God.” Bruce took off his glasses. “Shouldn’t one of you go out to check on them? Make sure he doesn’t try to leave.”

Bucky volunteered without saying anything and he walked outside. “Sunny? Are you ok?” He saw you two sitting on the sand, he decided to approach slowly.

“She’s fine.” Sentry looked over his shoulder, he was holding you close to him, your back against his chest, one hand on your forearm.

“I need to hear it from her.” Bucky reiterated.

“Just tired Bucky…” You were exhausted, your flame was low that’s for sure. “He won’t hurt me.”

“I’m not buying it kid.” He was skeptical.

“She and I came to an understanding last night and I apologized for my actions.” Sentry was getting annoyed by Bucky’s response.

“It’s ok Bucky, Sentry’s cocky but he’s not that bad towards me.”

Bucky got the message loud and clear. “Just come inside when you’re ready ok?”

“Sure.” You closed your eyes just to listen to the ocean waves.

“The look on their faces when I came out.” He broke the silence, chuckling to himself. “Especially John.”

“Don’t be cruel.” You corrected him. “I appreciate you coming to my rescue though.”

“I’m loyal to you remember? You’re mine.” He kissed your head. “I heard Bob’s plea to save you so I took over.”

“You did your job well.” You took deep breaths, feeling a headache coming on. “Ugh my head.”

He massaged your temples, not knowing his powers were helping to alleviate the pain. “There, there.”

“Was breaking my fingers necessary?” You flexed your now healed hand.

“How else was I supposed to get you out of the locked state.” He kissed your hand. “That’s twice I’ve broken something on you.”

“If you break my heart then I’m really considering breaking up with you.” You said half serious but half jokingly.

“I’d hurl myself into the sun.” He countered. “Besides, I am still atoning for what I did to you. I only listened to Bob just this once.”

“Any other time you won’t listen to him?” You tilted your head up.

“He keeps me at bay but it’s not as much as he keeps the dark one from coming out. He’s sulking in the corner of our mind.” He looked down into your eyes, your beautiful eyes that were the window to your soul. A place burning bright that held all your love.

“We should get back to the others now.” You stood up, brushing the sand off your legs.

“Can’t we stay out here a little longer?” Sentry didn’t want to leave just yet.

You held your hand out to him. “C’mon my golden eagle let’s go.”

Sentry blushed at the nickname you used for him. “Ok.” He took your hand as he stood up.

You walked back inside and everyone was on pins and needles. “I’m ok really.”

Bruce put his glasses back on. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m having trouble differentiating between my feelings and yours. I feel angry, frustrated, above all else really sad.” You looked at him.

“I understand if you want to leave, it won’t hurt my feelings.” He left that up to you.

“I want to figure this out, we got lucky that this guy came out to my rescue.” You let go of Sentry’s hand for the moment, only for him to grab your hand again.

“So Sentry, can you tell me who you are?” Bruce got a good look at him.

“You put my lady through hell.” Sentry narrowed his eyes at him. “Why should I answer to you?”

“And I apologize for that. I see you two are very close.” He noted that he was rather possessive over you.

“Very.” He nodded.

“Alright then Sentry. You guys can go on break, the bar is outside. I know I need a drink.”

“A break will do us some good.” You looked at him. “Yelena did you bring extra sunglasses.”

“Yes I did.” She had no problem taking you away from Sentry. “Come let’s go change.” Earning the ire of Sentry.

“Yes let’s.” You grabbed Ava on the way out, leaving the men alone with Sentry.

“Why are you staring at me.” He eyed them all. “What no shield?” He focused on John.

“Asshole.” John shook his head.

“Says one asshole to another.” He countered.

“I don’t know what the little bird see’s in this arrogant shit head.” Alexei said lowly to Bucky.

“How is Melina these days?” Sentry cracked a smirk.

“You!” Alexei was held back by John and Bucky.

“No super fights in my house! Please! It is very expensive to fix.” Bruce got between them.

Meanwhile, you were crying in Yelena’s arms while Ava stroked your back on the quinjet.

“It’s ok…” Yelena felt awful that you went through that. “It’s over now. No more tests.”

“Yeah no more torturing yourself.” Ava patted your back.

“It was so fucking bleak in there…” you sniffled. “I kept the mask up for Sentry because I know how he is.”

“We’re here for you.” Yelena kissed your head, “you’re a sister to me.”

“I am?” You felt your heart warm at that declaration.

“Yes you are. You put yourself on the line for us so it’s only fair that we show up for you.” She squeezed you.

“You and Ava are the best sisters a girl could ask for.” You smiled through the tears.

“I never had a stable family but I’ll do my best.” Ava wiped your tears.

“You’re already doing great.” You were calming down. “Thank you for letting me crash.”

“It’s not good to keep it inside.” Yelena patted your cheek. “Now let’s change and get in the water, this is as close as we’ll get to a vacation.”

Chapter Text

You were floating in the water, the water was muffling the noises outside as you tried to clear your head. Deep breaths, deep breaths Sunflower. You remember your mom telling you that when you’d get overwhelmed with your powers.

You remembered hiding under your blanket after a hard day. You were trembling as everything was so loud inside your head.

Grace’s hands picked you up and she held you in her arms while still keeping you in your cocooned state. “Focus on my thoughts Sunflower. The world will get smaller as you slowly listen.”

You sniffled and tried to concentrate, the world around was becoming quiet and you could hear her thoughts. All of them were warm and loving.

“Talk to me baby.” She took a peek inside.

“It’s quiet.” You used your blanket to clean your face. “I’m sorry mama…”

“Don’t be sorry baby, the lab can always be cleaned up. You were overwhelmed and that is not your fault.” She kissed your forehead and reached for the remote to turn on your sound machine. “Just pretend we’re at the beach.”

You were listening to the waves on the sound machine. “Maybe when I’m bigger, can we go to the beach?”

“Of course we can. White sandy beaches and pretty blue waters.” She could picture it in her head.

You opened your eyes again when you heard someone calling your name. It was Bruce. You stood up from the water. “Coming!”

“When you come back, bring back some cold drinks.” Yelena was floating around.

“Copy that.” You walked past the men at the grill, while you felt Sentry’s eyes on you as he followed you to Bruce. “You know I can talk to him by myself.”

“I’m not taking any chances.” He stayed on you.

You joined Bruce at the bar where he had his laptop. “What’s up?”

“Comparing your brain scans from when you were a kid to now, there’s some similarities but obviously your powers have matured so it’s off the charts.” He showed you his screen.

“Is there a way that I cannot take in the memories of an object?” You were open to anything.

“If we can put a mental block of your own making, that should work but it will take some time. I got some exercises to give you and we can even try one tomorrow if you want to.”

“I’ll do it, mama didn’t raise a quitter.” It was true, Grace always did push you to do your best.

“Of course she didn’t.” He chuckled. “And for you,” he turned his attention to Sentry. “I have some exercises to help you achieve a sense of harmony with you and Bob.”

“Not interested.” Sentry was quick to answer.

“Just give me the notes and I’ll make sure Bob gets it. You looked at Bruce.

“Right.” He heard you loud and clear.

“Also do you have any more of the hard seltzers? Yelena wants one.” You put on a small smile.

“Yep.” Bruce handed you one.

“Thank you!” You started walking back towards the water.

“Can we talk?” Sentry grabbed your arm gently.

“After I get this to Yelena.” You slipped out of his grip. “I got you a cold one!”

“You’re an angel.” She watched you crack it open. “Is he bothering you?”

“He just wants to talk.” You assured her.

“Just shout if you need an exit.” She looked at you.

“Will do.” You went back to him. “What is it?”

“You were crying weren’t you? After everything that happened.” He eyed you.

“And if I was?” You sighed. “I didn’t want to do it in front of you…didn’t need you to whisk me away without my consent.”

“You still don’t trust me.” His shoulders slumped a bit.

“Sentry I never said that. I know you’re loyal to me but I don’t need you to be going up against the team.” You took his hand into yours to keep his attention. “Today was fucking terrifying and I wanted a shoulder to cry on, not someone to figure out the solution.”

He could feel that sadness radiating from your body. He let go of you, taking to his knees, hugging your legs as he did so.

“Sentry?” You instinctively ran your fingers through his hair.

He looked up at you with such apologetic eyes that it almost made you start crying again. “A God never kneels, but for you I would.” He sighed. “I’m sorry.”

You smiled a little. “I accept your apology.”

He kept hugging you until Bob resurfaced again. “Sunny?”

“Hey Bob.” You said sweetly.

“You’re ok…” He started crying. “You’re ok!”

“I am.” You knelt down to his level and hugged him tightly. “You saved me again.” You wiped his tears.

“We’re still here?” He was coming back to his senses.

“Yeah, there’s a barbecue going on if you’re hungry.” You kissed his forehead.

“Are you hungry? I can get you something.” He wanted to be in charge now. “Go back to swimming.”

“You sure?” You were surprised.

“Yeah. I’m sure.” He kissed your cheek. “You’ve been through a lot and I want to take care of you. It’s my job as your boyfriend right?”

“Yes.” You couldn’t help but to smile. “I’ll be in the water.”

Bob watched you go and he went over to the guys grilling. “Hey.”

“Oh you’re back!” Alexei could tell it was Bob. “Your hair is back to normal.”

“I didn’t hurt anyone right?” Bob wanted to know.

“You want the truth?” Bucky looked at him, seeing him nod. “You broke Sunny’s fingers to get the bullet out of her grip. When she came back she punched you in the face.”

“Fuck…” He rubbed his face. “Why didn’t she say anything?!”

“Because she just got you back, you’ve been Sentry for a few hours now.” John flipped the burger patties. “Also he was a real dick.”

Bob took a breath and looked at them all. “I want to start training. I need to get better because it’s not doing me any good to be so fucking afraid of my own shadow.” Bob was finally speaking up.

“And we will once we get back tomorrow. We’ll start off with basics like hand-to-hand combat, offensive and defensive tactics. Then we’ll work our way up on endurance training.” Bucky was speaking from experience.

“Maybe with enough practice, you’ll come with us on missions.” John fixed a plate for him. “Here.”

“You think so?” Bob took the plate.

“You’re not weak Bobby, just to need to smooth out the edges and you took the first step.” John was proud.

“Thanks.” Bob brought the food over to you, peace was finally settled down at least for now.

Before bed, you were getting comfortable in the cot, feeling Bob’s arms wrap around you. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m ok…just tired.” You kissed his forehead. “Bruce offered to have us meditate on the beach to watch the sunrise. Did you want to join me?” You offered.

“I never done it before but sure I’ll do it.” He nodded. “And we go home tomorrow right?”

“Yeah we do. Bucky said we’ll wrap up whatever training Bruce has and take it to go.” You moved a strand of hair from his forehead.

He looked into your eyes. “I’m sorry for breaking your hand.”

“I forgive you. It’s healed so there’s no damage.” You showed him. “Can I tell you something?”

“What is it?” He was listening.

“The other night…he saw right through me and brought up the fact that I wanted a normal life like in those romcoms we’d watch. The usual office job, being married, probably a family.” You blushed.

“…you want all those things with me?” He whispered.

“We don’t have to have all that! I know it’s a lot to discuss.” You bit your lip.

“I kinda thought about what it’d be like to marry you…I love you a lot.” He blushed.

“I mean it’d be nice to have your last name, because it would be the first thing that would actually be mine and not borrowed.” You kissed him again.

“You think we’d get our own floor in the tower? Or would you wanna move out?” He kissed you back.

“I’m not sure?” You never lived alone with Bob, there was always someone around.

“We’ll think about it.” He held you close. “I love you.”

“I love you more.” You yawned and snuggled into him, eventually Bob fell asleep while resting his head on yours.

The next morning, you and Bob were up early with Bruce for some meditation. Bob was just sitting with his eyes closed, not really wanting to tap into anything yet. You were more in tuned with your powers than he was. You entered the realm space you saw when Void blacked you out.

You looked around, seeing yourself in the reflection of the water but it wasn’t you, it was Phoenix. “We need to protect ourselves from touching things that are emotionally charged.”

“I know.” Her voice sounded echoey. “We don’t need everyone else’s emotions. Filtering them out is key.”

“How do we do it? Bruce says a mental block would be useful.” You sat down.

“Mental blocks are a bandage, they wear off.” Phoenix came up from the water to sit in front of you. “Do you trust me?” She knew you were strong and level headed, someone to not underestimate. You were the perfect host.

“Yes I do. We’re one.” You put your hand in the middle, feeling her hand on yours.

“Just follow my lead.” You could see a smile on her as she whispered into your ear as you absorbed you back into your body, the instructions were clear enough. You wouldn’t repeat them, they were only meant for your ears alone.

Your eyes were shining brightly as you took on this form once again. Your flames were seeping outwards, Bruce quickly started recording, seeing Bob’s shadow moving in your direction.

Void was behaving because he wanted to feel your warmth even for a moment. His shadow touched your flame, it was harmonious.

You didn’t know but Bob was inside his own mind, he kept eyes his closed too long and he was faced with himself as Sentry and Void.

“What am I doing here?” Bob look around, seeing it was a blank space. It wasn’t his childhood attic.

“It’s your head Bob.” Sentry walked over to him. “You decided to join her for meditation and this is it. A tiny trick to get you to talk to us.”

Void was quiet, normally he’d be mean but he was holding onto your warmth outside.

“What do you want?” Bob did his best to remain calm.

“We know we each have something in common: our love for Sunny. The sake of our very existence rests on her being loved and safe.” Sentry took one more step.

“That’s true.” Bob did not falter this time, he stayed put. “But she was mine first.”

“Yours?!” Void snapped his head to Bob. “She’s ours! She was the first and only who truly understood us and you claim ownership?! This one here has hurt her twice! And you barely can stand on two feet to protect her.”

“That’s why I’m going to start training, we don’t have to get along but for Sunny, she’s everything. Can we agree on this?” Bob kept eye contact with Void.

Void was quiet but agreed, if they were to be balanced, have equal opportunities to be with you, it would be worth it. “Fine.”

Sentry held his hand out to Bob. “I agree.”

Bob cautiously shook Sentry’s hand, feeling the power seeping into his fingers. It started becoming painful but the two wouldn’t let go. “Fuuuuuuuck!”

“Don’t let go Bob, you wanted this!” Sentry slowly merged into his body.

Bob tried to control it, he was in control, he had to be in control. He shut his eyes to remember the time where he was in control for a moment.

It was when he was in the air, all the world was small beneath his feet and you were there to catch him.

It was always you.

The pain subsided and he fully absorbed Sentry into him. He accepted that these powers were a part of him, he could harness them for good. He only looked at Void who kept his distance.

“Go.” Void said.

Bob opened his eyes again and he was back on the beach, he felt your hand was hot to the touch. You were in your Phoenix form for the first time on the outside world. “Wow…you’re beautiful.” The whisps are of flames were dancing around, even your hair was on fire.

You looked into his eyes, seeing they were partially gold then faded to brown. “You too my golden eagle.” You decided to stand up slowly, spreading out your arms like wings, sending out a ripple of energy.

Bob couldn’t take his eyes off of you, you were like the sun, dangerous and beautiful. The energy you were putting out was off the charts and it was messing with Bruce’s instruments inside.

The team could hear them going haywire so they stepped outside to see what was going on, only to see the grand display of power.

“Holy shit…” Bucky couldn’t believe it.

“YESSSS!! OUR LITTLE BIRD IS NOW A FIRE BIRD!!” Alexei shouted.

Yelena was just in awe, you had immense power at your finger tips yet you didn’t have an evil bone in your body.

You saw Bob’s hand outstretched to you so you took it, your flames finally subsiding and you were back to normal. The exertion of energy was a lot, luckily Bob was there to catch you.

“You ok?” Bob picked you up.

“Yeah…are you?” You looked at him.

“I am…you always saw me for me.” He couldn’t help but start crying happy tears.

“Always.” You wiped his eyes. “Now you saw me again on the outside world.”

“You’re always beautiful to me.” He kissed your forehead.

Bruce came over with concern but it softened. “You guys ok?”

“Yeah we’re ok.” You saw he had his phone. “Did you happen to get everything on camera?”

“Yeah for research purposes, plus you were releasing energy waves that messed with my lab equipment.” He chuckled.

“I hope I didn’t break anything.” You tapped Bob on the shoulder to put you down so he did.

“Let’s get you both checked out and I’ll let you guys go home with obvious homework.” He had everyone go inside.

“Thank you Bruce, for everything.” You smiled at him.

“You’re Grace’s daughter, I’d do anything for you.” Bruce gave your shoulder a squeeze.

Before leaving, you gave Bruce one more hug. “I can call you if I have any questions?”

“Of course you can.” He smiled, “I almost forgot.” He handed you a small photo of him and Grace. “Just in case you wanted to add something to your photo album.”

You couldn’t help but smile, your mom looked so happy in it, especially next to her best friend. “I’ll cherish this always.” You put it away.

“Take care kid, same goes for you Bob. My door is always open.” He gave the same courtesy to him.

“Thank you.” He nodded, feeling more put together than lost.

On the quinjet, it was calm. You held Bob’s hand and put your head on his shoulder. Everything was looking up for the team, you guys were closer than ever you felt. You had more kinship with Ava and Yelena now.

What you didn’t know was that your energy was felt by Jean’s old mentor, Professor Xavier. He decided to keep this information to himself for now, he didn’t need old wounds opening up for certain people.

“Is everyone ok professor?” Scott came into the room.

“Yes everything’s fine.” He put on a brave face for his pupil.

Chapter Text

Bob stayed true to his word of wanting to train, little by little, he was making progress in the training room, going toe to toe with John or Bucky. Hand to hand combat wasn’t too hard but he still hesitated.

His defensive skills were better than his offensive skills. That’s where you came in to get him to go on the offensive. You could take a punch and get back up again. Plus you were the only one with super powers that could handle a round or two with Bob.

You were dressed in your gear, a protective vest, gloves, and your go to workout leggings. “You ready Bob?” You were stretching your arms.

“Yes.” Bob was dressed in proper workout clothes as well. “No holding back?”

“No holding back. Remember the safe word?” You waited.

“Yes, cucumber!” He chuckled a bit, getting into the starting stance that Bucky showed him.

You came at him with full force, your energy behind the punch, not holding back for him.

He took the punch and it stung a little. “Ow! But good one!” It was his turn now, his punches were low but luckily the vest softened the blow.

You had a few tricks you’ve been practicing in your own time, when he came at you again, his punch went through you.

In that moment of distraction, you swooped his legs out from under him and pinned him down. “Nice try.”

He chuckled to himself. “This position isn’t so bad.” He rested his hands on your hips, trying snake them up your body.

“No no! None of that yet.” You got up from him. “We go again, if you can pin me down then you win.”

“What do I win?” Bob wanted to up the stakes.

“Date night of your choice.” You decided to take off the vest, switching out the plates before putting it back on. “C’mon pretty boy.”

He smiled. “You called me pretty.” He chuckled.

You charged at him, splitting off once more but he saw right through the ruse when you felt his forearm come across your shoulders, you quickly ducked out from under him, dodging one of his hits.

You thought you could evade him but his powers kept you in place. “You’re playing dirty!” You concentrated enough to break free from his hold, your eyes shining brightly with power.

“So are you!” He charged up a punch but you were able to block, but it sent you flying into the wall, cracking it impressively.

It knocked the wind out of you but you recovered quickly enough. You winded up for another punch but he grabbed you with ease, pinning you to the mat on the floor.

You tried getting up but he had you pinned down good, you saw that victorious smirk grow across face. “C’mon you can say it.”

“I win.” He chuckled, seeing you splayed on the floor was doing something to him. “I want you…”

“Even if I’m all sweaty?” You were turning red at his declaration. “Seriously?”

“Yes I still do.” He gave you a passionate kiss, his hand going up your vest, ripping it off you with ease. “God you’re so pretty.”

“You’re not worried that someone is gonna see?” You kissed him back.

“They’ll leave anyway.” He ripped opened your shirt, then your sports bra, making your tits spring free.

“Bobby!” You instantly covered yourself. “I just bought those!”

“I can buy you more.” He took a nipple into his mouth, sucking on it happily, grinding himself on you.

You gasped at the feeling of him growing hard with each thrust of his hips, “Bobby!” You gripped his hair as he sucked harder.

You two were like a couple of horny teenagers thanks to the adrenaline of training, Bob couldn’t get enough of you as he wanted more. He left little bite marks on your tit before moving on to abuse the other one.

“Oh fuck Bobby!” You arched your back off the training mat while he was humping you like a needy boy. You felt him stop for a moment then your back met the cold wall, his eyes were gold again.

“Bobby please…” You watched him tear open your leggings, pulling your panties to the side, lowing his sweats to get his cock out.

In one fell swoop he was inside you, it hurt for a moment but that didn’t stop you from wrapping your legs around his waist. His thrusts were unforgiving, you couldn’t differentiate between him or Sentry in the moment.

You could only hold on for dear life as he fucked you against the wall. “I-It’s so much! Fuck!!”

He only grunted against your ear, “mine! Mine! Mine!!” He had been pent up for a hot minute and he was so happy that it was coming out now.

“I’m yours! Always been yours!” You hid your face in his neck. “I-I’m gonna cum!! Oh fuck!!” The build up was fast, you immediately saw white as your walls wrapped around his cock, milking him for everything.

He didn’t stop, he didn’t want to, he could buy you a pill later. “Fuck you feel so good!”

You couldn’t form any words, your head was mush while he kept fucking you through the orgasm. It was so much that all you could do was cry.

“Almost there…fuck almost there!” His grip on you was tight and he didn’t know he was pushing more into the wall. The concrete cracked even more as he pushed into you one more time.

He filled you up with his seed, it was so much that it was leaking out of you. Holy shit he came inside you…fuck. He felt you go limp in his arms. “You ok?”

“Y-Yeah…” you sniffled. “You fucked me so hard we cracked the wall more.”

“Was it too rough?” He looked at you.

“No…but you brought me to tears from how good it was.” You chuckled. “And we had no condom.”

“I can get you plan B.” He promised you. “Let’s go shower.”

“How about we shower and we go out on a date, we’re doing everything backwards again.” You teased. “Also take off your shirt because I can’t walk out of here with my tits out.”

“Y-Yeah!” He pulled out of you, seeing his handy work seeping down on your legs. “That’s hot.”

“Admire later!” You wanted him to move with urgency.

“Yeah yeah!” He took off his shirt and pulled it over your head. “There we go.”

Bucky walked through the door. “Is everything ok in here?” He saw the training room had taken an impressive beating then he noticed the human shaped outline on the wall.

“We’re fine Bucky!” You tried to save face.

“Oh Jesus…” He could tell what went on in here, he wasn’t exactly born yesterday. “New rule, no fucking in the training room. Am I understood?”

“Yes, sir.” Bob looked at him.

“Yes, Bucky.” You were embarrassed beyond belief.

He picked up a towel and tossed it to Bob. “Clean up your mess.” He left the room.

Bob cleaned up and carried you out of the training room. “Where do you wanna go tonight?” Even though he won the challenge, he liked letting you pick.

“I want to eat pizza and go walk around the natural history museum! The one that comes to life!” You really loved that movie. “Also we can go book browsing.”

“I don’t think it does but yes we can go.” He chuckled. “Also thank you for adding book browsing.”

“Of course, we each get what we want.” You kissed his cheek.

“Yeah.” He used his mind to open the door to the bathroom and the nob on the shower turned on.

“You’re getting better at this.” You were proud of him.

“It helps that I have a great teacher.” He took off his shirt from you then your ruined clothes. “I’ll buy you more leggings.”

“You better because they were my favorite pair.” You stripped him of his clothes too before getting in the water. “So who was that back there?”

He scrubbed you gently, “I knew what I was doing…I just used a bit of my power.”

“And how did you feel using it?” You turned around to let him pass the loofa over your chest.

“It felt different…not like when I had to listen to Valentina. I used it because I wanted to.” He looked down at you. “I used your advice that your powers are an extension of yourself. I know I’m not completely comfortable with using all of it though like you can.”

“Yeah…I forget that you didn’t have someone to hold your hand while figuring out your powers.” You sighed.

“I have you though…” He rinsed you off, making sure there was no soap left on you. “You’re the best teacher ever.”

“I do my best for you since I’m not entirely sure what else you can do aside from what I can do.” You chuckled.

“Well I’m not a cool fire bird.” He got under the water himself to rinse off.

“That’s true.” You grabbed a towel for yourself, walking to the bedroom to dry off, checking your phone.

Bob felt happy he had you. When he was done in the shower, he swiped some steam away from the mirror, seeing Void over his shoulder.

He ignored him and walked over to you. “What are you doing?”

“Just checking my messages, most of them from you.” You smiled. “Also my grandma says hi.”

“Hi.” He went into the closet, picking out some clothes for himself then yours. “You wanna walk to get food then we hit up the museum and then the mall on our way back?”

“Yes!” You made sure you were dried off all the way before getting dressed. You finished off your skincare routine before brushing your hair. “Should I blow dry or air dry?”

“I like it when your hair air dries, it’s pretty.” He got dressed himself, brushing out his hair.

“You’re so sweet.” You gave him a quick kiss. The two of you were dressed and out the door. You liked having this freedom plus it was easy to blend in among the people.

Bob’s hand never left yours and he let you lead him. First it was a quick stop to the pharmacy to buy you that plan B. You didn’t know how the consequences of getting pregnant by Bob would be. A super powered baby would be an easy target for sure but you knew parenthood was all about sacrifices, your mom showed you that first hand. Even your birth mom.

Both of them died for you.

You didn’t want to put your hypothetical child through that. You swallowed the pill easily after buying it, hoping it’d work. “So this pill does everything it says on the box?”

“Yep and it does work, if it didn’t then I’d be a labeled as a dead beat dad by now.” He said it so casually.

“I wouldn’t know what it’s like to have a dad.” You always hated that his own dad caused him so much torment and his mom was no better.

“I feel like if your mom and doctor Banner were a couple, they’d be perfect parents for you.” That was the best example he could come up with it.

“I see him like an uncle than a dad but I get the sentiment.” You walked back out again with him, finding a hole in the wall pizza place to eat at.

“It smells good in here.” You were looking at the menu with him. “What are you getting?”

“I think a sausage and pepperoni pizza slice.” Bob could see it being made and it made his stomach growl. “What about you?”

“A pepperoni slice sounds great.” You held onto his arm. After placing your order at the counter, you two found some seats on a far off wall. “You know I never asked you this.”

“Asked me what?” He sipped the free water.

“How come Void never sent me a shame room?” You looked at him.

Bob had to think about it but he could hear him whispering in his ear.

“Because she has no shame…nothing in her life that happened to her was her fault. She’s a light in the dark.” Void was watching you, on the surface he could feel you holding his hand while it was Bob.

“He said that there was no reason. Everything that happened to you wasn’t your fault.” Bob looked into your eyes, anxiously.

“He’s talking to you isn’t he?” You whispered.

“Yeah…” He sighed.

“It’s ok…” You kissed his knuckles. “I know you can hear me and thank you for the clarification my dear shadow.”

“He says he misses you.” Bob saw the pizza slices coming over.

“After our date and quick shopping spree, we can cuddle. Is that a good enough compromise?” You wanted to nurture all sides of Bob.

“Yes.” He nodded.

You ate your pizza quietly, just listening to the other conversations around you. Latest promotion, acing an exam, planning a vacation, so many different lives were intersecting with yours.

Bob focused on you as he ate. It was always a habit he picked up on when you two were in the lab. He thought every day would be his last and the one thing he wanted to remember was your face before fading into the dark.

His last day never came though. His body was forever changed and now he was still alive. He had you as his anchor. “Can I ask you something?”

“What?” You looked at him.

“What did you think of me when you met me in the lab?” He was always curious.

“I thought you were also lost like me so I guess I attached myself to you since my old life was stripped away from me. Love grew afterwards and it’s still growing. Also you did remind of a washed up kitten.”

He couldn’t help but chuckle at the kitten comment. “Do I look less like a stray?”

“Yes you do. You look more happy in my eyes.” You cleaned your mouth.

“I am happy.” He finally admitted out loud.

“Good.” You smiled then you could feel your phone buzzing. “Oh it’s Bucky.” You answered him. “Yes Bucky?”

“How far are you from home?” Bucky asked.

“Not too far. Why?” You saw Bob tilting his head a bit.

“We got a mission assignment, come home and we’ll go over the details.” He was reading the debriefing himself.

“Yes, sir.” You hung up. “Looks like we’re gonna have to cut our date short.”

“We have a mission?” Bob wondered if he was going also.

“Yeah,” you sighed. “I’m sorry my shadow but our special time alone will have to wait.”

“He understands.” Bob spoke for him and paid for the food. “Let’s go.”

Getting back to the tower wasn’t an issue, the elevator ride up was quiet until it opened up to the living room floor. Mostly everyone was gearing up.

“Hey kid, you’ve been assigned with us also this came for you.” Bucky showed you the box.

You looked in the box and read the note from Mel. “New gear, much better than the original costume.” You felt the texture and it was on par with at Ava and Yelena wore, there was a hint of green and subtle bird motif.

“Am I going too?” Bob asked.

“Yes but you’ll be watching from quinjet.” Bucky answered him. “We’re supposed to leave you here but I’m not risking it.”

“Ok.” Bob saw you take your box to get ready. When you came out, you felt a sense of duty and honor. “Wow…you look amazing!”

“Thank you Bob.” You smiled and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “You ready?”

He nodded. “Let’s go.” He followed you and the team to the quinjet. People were in need of help and the heroes were coming.

Chapter Text

It was a hostile situation, hostages confirmed by the military command that phoned in for help but the number was unknown. “What’s the plan?” You looked at Bucky.

“We send in Ava to scout ahead and that’ll buy us some time to take care of the front door. Then we spread out to take out the opposition and free the hostages. Anything you want to add John?” Bucky knew he was knowledgeable about these situations.

“Remember your training, our job is to help people and we’ll do it.” John felt glad to be of use again. “Arizona you’ll be covering our blind spots when we’re inside.”

“Yes, sir.” You nodded.

Getting boots on the ground wasn’t hard, Ava went down first to do her task, marking everything mentally.

You projected a shield when the enemies in front opened fire upon the quinjet. Yelena came down easily, impressively taking them out one by one.

John came down when the sound of bullets stopped. “Ava what do we got?”

“Still locating the hostages.” She phased through another wall, hearing crying from women and children. “East side of the complex, I hear them.”

“We’ll be coming in shortly.” John looked at you. “Let’s go.”

“Right.” You followed him, giving Bob a quick wink.

Bob watched you go in, he knew you’d come back to him, you had to. He knew you were strong and capable.

He stayed vigilant when Bucky left him to watch over the quinjet. He decided to keep a lookout while listening to the comms.

He could hear Alexei’s boisterous voice as he took down several enemy fighters during his sweep of the building. The team was working together somewhat until he heard shots fired on your end.

“Shit Arizona’s hit!” John covered you.

“I’m ok!” You felt your body pushing it out and when the bullet plopped out on the ground, you were back in the fray, releasing a shockwave of energy.

“Are you ok?!” Bob called out to you.

“I’m ok Bobby! We’re almost there to get the people out of here.” You assured him. “We keep pushing.”

John nodded, throwing his shield around, knocking out the enemies in your wake, luckily Ava was just up ahead.

“We have injured!” Ava saw you and John.

“We’ll assess them and bring them out.” John broke the chain on the door. “Everything’s going to be alright now,” He knelt down to some of the kids.

“My mommy’s hurt.” One of the kids pulled you to her. “Please help!”

“Let’s check her out ok?” You could see she was in bad shape and the bandage wasn’t doing much. “Is there a first aid kit around here?”

“No there’s nothing here.” One of the hostages frowned.

“John give me your knife.” You looked at him.

“Ok.” He handed it to you.

“You’re going to be ok, I promise.” You looked at the woman who was scared to death but she felt she could trust you. You removed her bandage and slit your hand, squeezing your blood onto the wound, slowly your blood was going to work in repairing the damage internally.

It was just enough to where she could hold out until she received medical attention. “H-How did you do that?” She looked at you with wide eyes but they were filled with hope.

“I was born this way ma’am.” You were happy to hear her talking and she was looking less pale. “You’re going to be just fine.”

Ava and John were both in awe that you essentially healed this woman. Bucky disrupted the moment when he started talking. “Status report!”

“We’re about to walk out the hostages.” John confirmed. “Give us cover.” He looked at you.

“Copy.” You were happy to have saved a mother, no child would be orphaned today. You projected a shield and walked in an orderly fashion for the rescued to keep up.

There was echoes of bullets firing but they dwindled as the noise of military vehicles were pulling up.

“They’re wearing our flag, it’s ok Arizona.” John gave you the nod to lower the shield.

You did so and you took a moment to compose yourself as you used a lot of energy today. You felt someone hugging your leg and it was the little kid.

“Thank you for saving my mommy.” He smiled at you.

“Of course.” You knelt down to hug him. “She’s gonna be just fine.” That moment was captured on film by a field reporter.

The hostages were safe now, no casualties were reported and it was a good day for the Avengers. Bob was peeking out of his hiding spot, he was seeing people praising you and so was John.

You were a hero and rightfully so.

“She doesn’t need us anymore…” Void mumbled.

“That’s not true.” Bob snapped back.

“Where were you in this fight huh? Hiding here like a fucking coward.” Void bit back more.

“Stop it!” Bob said it out loud and that caught your attention.

You immediately went to Bob. “Hey hey? What’s the matter?”

“He’s saying hurtful things…” Bob wanted to disappear, his emotions were wanting to run high. “I was useless.”

“He and I will have a chat once we’re home.” You made him look at you. “You are not useless and I know you’re still not comfortable using your powers just yet. But you being here made me feel safer.”

“Really?” Bob and Void were now paying attention.

“Yes, just hearing you in comms made me happy and I fought harder to get those people out and come back to you.” You stroked his cheek. “I hate to admit but like Val said, Sentry and Phoenix will always be together.”

He felt his heart beating faster. “You were the hero today…”

“I only did what was right.” You kissed his head.

After the building was swept through once again, a soldier picked up the bullet that came out of you. He bagged it carefully and put it in his pocket. His employer would want to examine it.

The dust was settled, now it was time for the Avengers to go home. Alexei was still going on about how everyone did a great job and did their part. Of course he gave praise to Bob for making sure the chariot home wasn’t damaged by enemy fire.

“How’d you know that you could do that?” John asked you.

“I had a hunch is all but I’m glad it worked.” You looked at him.

“She’s gonna get super powers from you?” That was another question on his mind.

“Doubt it.” You shook your head. “If that were true then Bob would also be a fire bird.” You chuckled a bit.

“But imagine a little fire bird and a little sentry.” Alexei winked at Bob.

“Like babies?” Bob looked at Alexei.

“It’s only natural that a love that burns brightly like yours should produce smaller flames.” Alexei really tried to keep it romantic.

“How about a subject change?” Yelena put a stop to that because she could see you were turning red.

“Please.” You rubbed your face.

“I think we were a solid team.” Yelena nodded. “We helped people.”

“This win put us on the map for sure.” John was coming down from the adrenaline.

“It’s gonna take more than one mission for people to trust us.” Bucky spoke up.

It wasn’t just one mission after that, the call for help was pouring in for the Avengers. The news was eating up the heroism while others were criticizing.

It was expected that some people were off put by the fact that someone so powerful like you was running around. The name freak and mutant was tossed around online forums but you paid them no mind.

After the last mission, you were exhausted and wanted a long hot bath. “I think I’m gonna put a time off request.” You stretched in your seat.

“Don’t worry I’ll make sure you get off for a few days.” Bucky was paying attention to the map.

“Good because I haven’t been able to spend quality time with Bob, I still owe him a proper date night.” You looked at him.

“You will.” He kept an eye on the autopilot.

Seeing Mel on the helipad was a surprise and with a folder in her arms. The quinjet came to a soft landing and everyone filed out, wondering if it was another mission assignment again.

“What brings you over, Mel?” Bucky decided to break the silence.

“News from Val, there’s a gala that she wants the Avengers to attend and do a bit of press coverage.” Mel opened the folder up. “Plus some brands want to style you guys for the occasion, if not there’s the shopping option.”

“We’ll take the shopping option.” Yelena was on board with it.

“Who will be paying for all this?” John crossed his arms.

“You’ll have a black Amex card at your disposal.” She nodded.

“What’s a black Amex card?” You looked at John.

“It means we have serious money to blow.” Ava answered for him.

Mel felt like Valentina was going to regret this a whole lot.

First, Yelena decided to take charge for the girls shopping spree. It was easy enough to have Bob stay home since he trusted Yelena a lot.

“We’ll get you something nice Sunny.” She held your arm. “Something will make everyone say wow.”

“I want something nice, nothing super revealing because I’m still not over that gaudy costume Val put me in.” You cringed.

“Don’t worry we’ll find something good.” Ava opened the doors to the first store that had wall to wall dresses of all types.

Yelena and Ava were pulling different styles, watching you try them on. Some of them were beautiful but not enough to make you say wow. As you were peeling away at the rack, you can across this shimmering red dress that had an open back, halter top with the ends draping downward on the back.

“I want to try this one.” You smiled.

“Yes!” Yelena smiled and ushered you back to the dressing room.

You slipped into it and it hugged your body in a gentle way. It was elegant and graceful. “I think long white gloves would look great with this.” You came out of the dressing room to stand on the little platform.

“Oh my God Sunny! You’re stunning!” Ava was gushing over you.

“Thank you!” You were excited about this.

“We can get you white gloves and shoes to match.” Yelena loved that you were happy. “What about jewelry?”

“I was thinking about stopping by my grandparents house to see if they have anything from my mother.” You wanted to see them again and this was the perfect excuse.

“We go together? Or you go by yourself.” Yelena saw your wheels turning.

“I wouldn’t be long I promise. You remember how fast I can fly when I caught Bob in the air.” You twirled around in your dress. “I want this one.”

“Then we’ll take it.” Ava nodded. “Go on and change.”

“Yes Ava.” You walked back into the dressing room and changed into your regular clothes.

Swiping the black Amex was exhilarating, the shoes and other accessories were bought to complete the ensembles. “We’ll see you at home?” Yelena was carrying the dresses.

“Yep! Just tell Bob I’ll be home later.” You hugged her before taking flight, going to your grandparent’s house.

Yelena and Ava made their way back home to hand off the Amex card to Bucky. “Hopefully Bob won’t freak out too much since we’re one woman short.”

“He won’t, I’ll tell him where Sunny went.” Yelena had it under control.

The elevator ride up was uneventful and the doors opened.

“How was the shopping trip?” Bob was waiting to see you.

“It was fun! We bought what we wanted and Sunny will be back, she went to stop at her grandparent’s house for some jewelry to go with her dress.” Yelena said gently.

“Oh.” Bob deflated a bit.

“She’ll be back by the time you four are done shopping.” She handed the card to Bob. “Guard it with your life.”

“Ok.” He took it, putting it in his pocket.

“Now go have fun, get to know them more.” She urged him.

“I’ll try.” Bob’s relationship with the guys wasn’t as deep as yours. Sure he felt he could trust them as coworkers but as friends? He was still pretty guarded.

The way to the shopping district was eventful. All the designer brands were just jumping out at him. The price tags were even more ridiculous than the designs.

“We need to look classy for the cameras.” John was looking through the racks of simple black suits. “Also we need to be taken seriously.”

“We’re not taken seriously?” Bob looked at him.

“We are but we need to show the public that we can be trusted in a formal setting. Now what size are you Bobby?” John picked out a blazer.

“I don’t know…I never had a suit.” Bob fiddled with his sleeves.

Bucky and Alexei stopped as did John. Bob’s father never had the opportunity to take his son out like this. He was too much of an abusive piece of shit to treat Bob kindly.

“Don’t worry kid we’re gonna make sure you look good.” Bucky assured him. “We got plenty of time.”

“My boy you’ll be the envy of the world.” Alexei pulled out some dress shirts that were flashy. “Come, come! Let’s try these on!”

Bob couldn’t help but feel happy. It was a parade of different styles, some were good while others were tacky. Bob was staring at the mirror in the latest ensemble. It was black shirt with a navy blue vest, the pants were nicely pressed and for a pop of color, silver cuff links. The jacket was also a stylish black.

“What do you think Bobby?” John was eager to hear his thoughts.

“I feel…good.” He kept looking at himself. “You think Sunny’ll like it?”

“I think the little bird would swoon.” Alexei gave two thumbs up.

“You look great kid.” Bucky nodded in approval. “Could probably get married in it if you really wanted to.”

“That actually doesn’t sound so bad.” Bob admired himself a little more.

“Marriage is a serious thing, I know because I was at one point. But seeing how you are with Arizona, you’d be alright as a husband.” John patted his shoulder.

“Thanks…” He knew that was a compliment.

“I too am married but we’re just keeping a low profile.” Alexei did miss Melina a whole lot.

“I’ve never been married so I can’t really offer anything substantial.” Bucky shrugged.

“That’s ok…this has been fun.” Bob smiled a bit more.

Chapter Text

You were sitting at the dining room table of your grandparents house having a snack while Elaine was bringing over the jewelry box. You were filling your grandpa in on what’s new.

“We’ve done such a good job as the Avengers that we’ve been invited to a gala for some press coverage and we’ll be talking with some other important people.” You sipped your water.

“Well that’s great honey! I always knew you were destined for great things.” John was so proud of you.

“Here we are! Will you be ok to touch them? Or I can show you in my hand like in those infomercials.” She put the box down.

“You can show me like a model.” You chuckled.

“And whatever you pick honey you can keep it.” She started pulling out pieces that best fit the way you described your dress.

“Awww grandma Elaine.” You were admiring the ones she picked, the earrings and matching bracelet coincided with the necklace that started everything.

“So is Bobby dressing up also?” John asked.

“Yeah he is.” You would be swooning in whatever he picked out for himself.

“I know you two will look perfect.” She kissed your head. “Make sure to send us pictures please, we’re making room for you on the walls.”

“I will don’t worry.” You chose the earrings and bracelet. “I’ll take these ones.”

“Of course sweetheart.” She put them in the special baggie they came in. “For you.”

You took the baggie and put it away safely. “I better get going but I promise to come and visit soon.”

“Alright sweetheart.” John stood up to hug you. “Fly safe.”

“I always do.” You hugged him tightly.

“Also bring Bobby over again for dinner.” Elaine wanted to have him over since you said he had a better grip on his powers.

“I’m sure he’ll love that.” You hugged your grandma goodbye. “I love you!” You took flight once more, heading for home.

“We love you too!” John called out before you were out of sight.

Bob was patiently awaiting for your return, he really wanted to show you what he got because Yelena had barred him from seeing your dress.

He decided to get started on dinner, he was making one of your favorites to pass the time. He put his earbuds on to listen while he cooked.

You arrived shortly after, touching down on the helipad. “I’m home!” You came in through the doors. “Bobby?”

He heard his name and he took out an earbud. “Hm?”

“Bobby?” You called out to him again, not seeing him in his reading corner.

“In the kitchen!” He heard you, feeling relieved you were home.

“Oh!” You walked over to the kitchen, seeing him cooking up a storm. “Hey you.”

“Hi you.” He smiled when he saw you. “How was your grandparents?”

“Oh it was a good quick visit.” You pulled the baggie that had the jewelry. “I got some accessories to go with my dress.”

“Can I see it?” He really wanted to.

“Of course.” You smelled the something burning and you quickly turned off the stove, taking the pan off the burner.

“Fuck!” Bob checked to see if it was salvageable, unfortunately it stuck to the pan.

“Hey! Why don’t we go out? Just the two of us.” You went ahead and put the pan in the sink. “Find a nice quiet spot to eat.”

“I’d like that.” He wasn’t going to argue with that.

You took him out to a cozy bistro you came across on a whim, low lighting and soft music, perfect for date night. After ordering soups and a sandwich, you were sitting across the table showing him the pictures you took of the dress on your phone.

Bob was taking it in all in, you looked so pretty while he scrolled through the mini fashion show. “You’re so pretty.”

You giggled and blush. “Yeah? I felt really elegant in it.”

“I got a really nice suit so I can look just as nice next to you.” He smiled softly.

“I think I’d like your hair slicked back for when we go to the gala.” You smiled.

“I’ll do whatever you want.” He put your phone down. “You know I think bonded with the guys somewhat.”

“Really? That’s great!” You were happy to hear that.

“Yeah they helped me pick everything out for my suit.” He showed the pictures he took of himself. “Bucky said I could probably get married in the suit.”

You giggled as you looked through his little photo shoot. “We really could…imagine us ditching the whole gala to get hitched!”

“Can we?” He chuckled a little. “We’d piss a lot of people off.”

“I know we really would but this is a team effort and I’d hate to ditch them.” You saw the food coming over. “For now we eat.”

“Ok.” Bob started digging into his sandwich, dipping it into his tomato soup. It was definitely a big comfort meal for him.

“If we do get married, I’d wanna do it on a beach.” You could picture it in your head, the waves crashing as you’re saying I do to Robert.

“We can.” He saw your wheels turning. “I wanna get you a ring though.”

“We could stop a jewelers, be inconspicuous about it.” You sipped on your drink.

“Let’s do it!” He wolfed down his food and drank up his drink.

“Jesus where does it all go?!” You still didn’t know how he’d eat for two.

“High metabolism.” He chuckled and waited for you to finish.

Once you were done, you walked out with him to the jewelry store. It was quiet and the display cases held all the shiny treasures that symbolized love and matrimonial significance.

“Wow look at them all.” You were looking at the more timeless pieces.

“Is there anything in particular you were interested in?” The old shop owner came out.

“We’re just looking for engagement rings…maybe even wedding rings.” Bob was proud to say it.

“Ah I see! May interest you in these ones.” He pulled out the latest trends of rings on the market.

You looked at them, trying on a few, but they weren’t calling your attention. “I’m not sure.”

“It’s ok we can keep looking.” Bob kissed your head.

“Can I ask you something son?” The shopkeeper looked at him.

“What is it?” Bob looked at him.

“When you look at your sweetheart, what pops into your head?”

“She’s like a sunrise and a sunset, so beautiful in that golden hour and I know I’ll go blind if I keep looking for too long.” He smiled softly.

“I know exactly what you’re looking for.” He went over to a special drawer and pulled out a tray.

“Bobby these are beautiful.” You saw one that caught your eye immediately. “This is it.” You tried it on and it fit perfectly.

“It’s so beautiful on you.” Bob could feel the happiness radiating off of you.

The door to the shop opened and a click of gun made all three of you look at the entrance.

“Gimme the money and rings, empty your pockets too!” The robber meant business.

Bob slowly turned to the guy. “No.”

“No? Do you wanna die stupid?! Or should I just kill your girl first?” He pointed the gun at you.

Big mistake.

No one threatens you. Nobody!

His eyes turned golden, the gun melting instantly, in a flash Bob was on him and he threw him out the door. It shattered but Bob stayed on top of him. “Stay down.”

The old shopkeeper had pressed the silent alarm and the a couple cops showed up, “you can let him go now.”

Bob didn’t say anything, he went back inside to check on you. “Are you ok?”

“I am.” You nodded, hugging him.

“Are you ok, sir?” He looked at the shopkeeper.

“I am, son. You’re a true hero.” He couldn’t believe what he saw Bob do.

“I’m sorry about the door…I’ll pay for it.” He rubbed the back of his neck.

“Doors can be replaced but people can’t be. As a token of my thanks, please take the ring for your bride and a ring for yourself.”

“I can’t possibly do that.” Bob shook his head.

“Please I insist! It’s not every day this happens!” The old man was persistent.

“Thank you so much.” You were over the moon that you found the ring. “We’ll come by again to check up on you.”

“Please do! I always love to hear back from clients but you two are very special customers.” He smiled.

“Can you pick a ring for me please?” Bob let you do the honors.

You looked in the men’s section and knew Bob was simple, nothing too flashy. A simple gold band would suffice.

“I like this one for you.” You showed it to him.

“I love it.” He smiled. “We should go before the reporters come.”

“Your secret is safe with me.” The shopkeeper nodded.

“Thank you.” Bob put the ring on and it fit him. “Let’s go.”

“Coming Bobby.” You felt giddy as he picked you up, flying away in an instant from the alleyway. “I thought you hated flying!”

“Just wanted to get home faster.” He kept his grip tight on you and the tower was in sight.

When he touched down, he didn’t let you go for a second. “I can walk from here Bobby.”

“Just let me hold you please.” He carried you all the way to the room.

“Ok.” You relented.

He sat down on the bed and just held you. “That was scary…the way that guy wanted to hurt you.”

“But you stopped him from hurting anyone else.” You stroked his cheek. “You know that I always come back.”

“But I don’t ever want to see the light leave your eyes ever again.” He brought your hand that had the ring on, kissing your palm gently. “I saw it once…never again.”

“Oh Bobby.” You could see his shadow seeping out. “Let him out…”

“Are you sure?” He tried to hold him back.

“It’s ok.” You nodded.

The lights flickered momentarily and Void surfaced. “My light.”

“My shadow.” You stroked his hair gently.

“I wanted to kill that man, send him into his own perpetual hell for threatening you.” He fixed his pin holes on you.

“But Bobby stopped him,” you kissed his forehead. “And we couldn’t have you coming out or else we wouldn’t have been able to get the rings.”

“I didn’t get to ask you properly.” He looked at the ring chosen for you on your finger.

“You can ask me now if you want to.” You smiled.

“Will you marry me?” Void held your hand.

“Yes.” You gave him a sweet kiss.

He brought you onto the bed, just holding you close, listening to your heart beating. “Can I stay awhile?”

“That’s fine with me.” You knew he needed this and didn’t want to deny him any longer.

You don’t know how many hours passed but you fell asleep, Void was watching you the entire time. You looked so peaceful until you started having a nightmare.

You didn’t know what was happening…you were back in a lab and strapped to a table. Your body had tubes coming out of it, sucking you dry all while your body was trying to heal itself. You couldn’t scream for help, out of the shadows came a man who had such malice in his eyes.

Finally you were able to scream when you sat up in bed. Void was there for you. “You’re awake now!” He was grounding you, “breathe with me.”

You tried to steady your breathing with his, it was a mixture of cries and shaken breaths. “Void…”

“What happened?” He whispered in your ear.

“I was in a lab…” you sniffled. “Tubes were in my body draining me.”

He stroked your hair. “It’s over now.”

“There was a man there that came from the shadows…the hatred in his eyes was so real.” You buried your face into his neck.

“He can’t hurt you.” He could feel your fear and if things were different he would’ve relished in it more. But this was sour and it hurt him. “I promise to protect you from this man if he’s real or not.”

“I don’t want to figure that out.” You were scared that this was a new power surfacing, you’d never have nightmares like this. “Don’t let go please.”

“I won’t, I promise.” He brought you back down to the bed, having your head over his heart. “When you wake again, I won’t be here but Bob will.”

“Ok.” You clinged to him.

The sun rose yet again and you woke up to an empty space next to you. Yesterday was a lot and you weren’t feeling like getting out of bed.

Bob was in the kitchen making you a bagel breakfast sandwich and a cup of orange juice. John walked into the kitchen when he saw Bob cooking up a storm.

“Morning Bobby.” John poured himself a cup of coffee.

“Morning.” Bob plated the scrambled eggs, bacon and cheese, heating it a little more for the cheese to melt with his power.

“Where’s Sunny? She’s usually out here by now.” He put a little sugar in his coffee.

“She’s not feeling well…had a nightmare.” He stopped before he’d burn it.

“Oh.” He looked at him. “Does she need anything?”

“I’ll ask her but for now it’s breakfast in bed.” Bob carried everything to the room, not knowing John saw the gold band on his finger.

“Hey beautiful.” Bob came into the room. “I made you breakfast, bit of redemption from burning dinner yesterday.”

“Thank you Bobby.” You smiled a little. “How are you feeling.”

“Just worried about you.” He put the plate in your lap. “Eat up and then we can talk ok?”

“Ok.” You took a bite and sighed happily. This was the most delicious breakfast bagel sandwich ever.

He gave you space to eat and went to sit on his other beanbag to read.

“Void was well behaved yesterday, he was worried like you.” You sipped your orange juice.

“Yeah?” He looked at you. “Anything else happened?”

“He proposed to me and I said yes.” You blushed.

“But that’s my line.” He let out a huff.

“You can ask me still Bobby.” You finished off your sandwich then your juice, getting out of bed to take the plates back to the kitchen.

Bob followed you. “We’ve been together for awhile and our relationship started in a scary place but you saw something in me that brought you comfort. Now we’re here in a stable home and growing closer day by day. It’s only right that I ask you this important question.”

“What is it?” You put the dishes the sink.

“Will you marry me?” He was blushing hard.

You smiled warmly at him. “Yes I will marry you Robert Reynolds.”

He took your hand and kissed your knuckles. “I love you so much.”

“I love you more.” You felt better now, the nightmare in the back of your mind was slowly melting away but the man’s eyes were tucked away.

“We can keep it to ourselves.” He pressed his forehead against yours.

“Yes please.” You felt his warmth radiating from the top of your head to your toes. “How scandalous having a secret engagement.”

“I know…did you still want to talk about last night?” He kissed your head.

“It just felt so real…I don’t know if psychic visions are a thing but if he is real.” You were trying not overthink it.

“We could call Doctor Banner? I’m sure he’ll answer that for you.” He held your hand.

“I will,” you hoped he did have the answers. “For now I have to shower because Yelena and Ava are going to get me ready for the gala.”

“You’re going to be so beautiful.” He smiled.

“And you’ll be my handsome date tonight.” You kissed him quickly. “We’ll get through this I promise.”

“Together.” He kissed you back.

Chapter Text

Yelena was putting the finishing touches on your makeup. “Now for the setting spray.” She spritzed a little before fanning. “And done!”

You opened your eyes and looked in the mirror. “Wow! Lena you’re an artist!” You smiled.

“It’s amazing what a couple tutorials can accomplish.” She chuckled. “Now go get dressed.”

“Yes I will.” You walked out of her room in your robe, strutting your stuff down the hallway, seeing John buttoning his shirt.

“Wow Arizona! Your makeup looks great.” He complimented.

“I’d like to thank our in house makeup artist.” You chuckled. “You seen Bobby?”

“Yeah I just passed him, probably in your room.” He nodded.

“Thanks!” You walked the usual route to your room, feeling giddy when you walked in on Bob getting ready. “Bobby do you wanna help me get into my dress?”

“Yeah!” He immediately put down his shirt, he was always happy to help.

You took your dress out from its plastic wrap and unzipped it. “Ok hold it.”

“Yes, ma’am.” He held the dress up while you let the robe fall off of you. “No bra?” He blushed.

“The dress has one built in.” You chuckled and stepped into the dress, having him zip it.

He zipped it carefully and was blown away by how it looked on you. “Wow…you look so beautiful right now.”

“Yeah?” You felt really beautiful. “Thank you.”

He kissed the back of your neck, moving them to the side. “Really beautiful…”

“Bobby not now.” You sighed. “After the gala?”

“I can wait until then.” He chuckled.

“Good.” You turned around to give him a kiss. “I’ll finish getting ready.”

He kissed you back. “Alright.” He put on his dress shirt that was freshly pressed by Bucky.

You put on all your jewelry with the safety of your gloves. “I feel like a princess.”

“Cuz you are a princess.” He smiled seeing your engagement ring on the opposite finger. “Should I wear mine too?”

“Only if you want to sweetheart, I didn’t want to leave it at home.” You admired it happily.

“I’ll wear it on my other finger.” He switched it over.

When you two were officially ready, you took time to take pictures to send them to your grandparents. “We look amazing!”

“We do.” He was looking back at the pictures.

“C’mon love birds!” Yelena knocked on the door.

“Coming!” You walked out, smiling at how beautiful Yelena looked. “Wow you look hot!”

“Thank you love.” She kissed your cheek. “Don’t you look like a movie star.”

“Awww Lena!” You gave her a big hug. “Let’s take pictures!”

“Ok!” She took you by the hand and many selfies were taken by her and Ava. It was a lovely girls moment.

After being ushered to the limo, you took your spot next to Bob naturally. Bucky was going over rules on how to behave in public, it was nothing that you haven’t heard before.

You were nervous about the gala but you had safe guards in place. Your white gloves were a barrier and Bob promised to be your buffer. Most importantly, you two would move as one unit.

“Remember to smile for the cameras and if reporters get too close just brush them off with saying no comment.” John was use to media attention like this, both good and bad.

“What if they ask invasive questions?” You knew some reporters would try to go in on your relationship with Bob.

“Let Bob melt their phone as a last resort but you can keep brushing them off politely.” John said the first part jokingly.

“I can do that.” Bob nodded.

Everyone just looked at him while Bucky shook his head.

The flashing lights could be seen as the limo pulled up the venue. Here we go. Alexei was the first to step out of the limo, he helped Yelena out then Ava.

John came out after Bucky and Bucky had his hand extended to you. “C’mon kid.”

“Ok.” You took his hand, feeling Bob close behind you.

The cameras were really flashing when you and Bob were seen together. You simply followed John’s lead, stopping every so often for your picture to be taken before heading inside.

Valentina was patiently waiting for the team. “Oh good you’re all finally here and so well dressed.”

“Thanks to you for sparing no expense.” John rubbed it in.

“No shit.” She sighed. “There’s various important people here so go mingle and talk. Don’t embarrass yourselves.”

Ava didn’t want to stick around so she simply disappeared.

“God dammit.” Valentina needed the night to go right but she had Mel on standby for PR rescue.

Ava was chuckling behind you when she watched Val walk away. “Can’t stand her.”

“Me neither.” You whispered to her before breaking off for the anticipated interviews.

A young woman was the first to catch your attention. “Hi! My name is Sandra with the Daily Bugle, can I ask you and him a few questions.” She had her recorder ready.

“Of course.” You smiled. “I’m ready whenever you are.” You held Bob’s hand.

“So it’s obvious you are in a relationship with Mr. Reynolds and our readers are dying to know how you maintain a relationship while being heroes.”

“Well, it’s like any relationship, it takes time and communication. Plus at the end of the day when the cape comes off, we’re like any ordinary couple.” You blushed.

“That’s so sweet! Uh Bob? Can I call you Bob?” She asked.

“That’s fine with me.” Bob nodded.

“How do you keep your girl happy?”

“I listen to her and we sorta fall into a pattern for each other. Plus I love her so much that all I want to do is to keep making her happy.” He looked at you with such admiration.

“One more question for our viewers! Is there a possibility of a super wedding in your future?”

You giggled. “We’ve talked about it but that’s still far away, being an Avenger is a big responsibility.”

“Of course! Thank you so much for taking the time and answering our questions.” She had you two pose for a picture by her photographer.

Bob made sure his hand placement wasn’t somewhere awkward because he wanted to get the point across that you were his to love and cherish.

After that was done, you were looking for refreshments. “I’m thirsty.”

“Hopefully they have water somewhere because all I’m seeing is champagne.” He saw the waiters moving about.

“Hmmm.” You two kept moving, seeing the other team members were being interviewed. “You did great back there.”

“I was mostly calm thanks to you.” Bob stroked your cheek.

“You’re so cute.” You blushed.

Another interviewer was being brought over by Mel. “This is Jordan with the New York Times and he wants to interview you Bob.”

“Uh ok?” He wasn’t sure about this.

“I’ll be off to the side don’t worry.” You let go of his hand.

“Just a few questions for you Bob! No curve balls because your PR team vetted them.” Jordan pulled out his recorder and note pad.

“I can do that.” Bob nodded.

When you saw he was confident, you really wanted to find some water. There had to be fountains somewhere in here. You signaled to Mel that you were going to get a drink and promptly walked away.

Down a hall you found yourself wandering, looking at the art that hung on the walls. It was quiet and peaceful. You eventually found your water fountain and were careful to not get your dress wet.

When you had your fill, you had to get to back to Bob before he noticed you were gone. As you were walking down the lonely hall, a man was walking in the opposite direction. You paid him no attention but then he was getting closer to you.

“Excuse me miss? Is there water fountain down there?” His question seemed innocent enough.

“Uh yeah! Just down there.” You pointed him the way.

“Thank you.” He came up closer to you. “I must say you look really beautiful tonight…Sunflower.”

Your blood ran cold and you looked up at the man paying you the compliment. It couldn’t be…the man from your nightmare standing in front of you. “What did you say?”

“The pendant you’re wearing, it’s in the shape of a sunflower.” He caught you off guard, good.

“Y-Yes it was a gift.” You cleared your throat. “If you’ll excuse me.” You walked away as calmly as you could. Your heart was beating out of control and you looked back to see he wasn’t there anymore.

You accidentally bumped into a waiter holding a tray of champagne flutes, luckily you were able to stop them with your mind, guiding them back into the tray. “I am so sorry!”

“That was so cool!” The waiter was happy that nothing spilled.

“You’re welcome!” You sped walk to Bob who was done with the interview. “Can we talk?”

“What’s wrong?” Bob could tell you were shaken.

“I don’t know if my mind is playing tricks on me but the man I saw in my nightmare is here.” You held his hand to ground yourself.

“What?!” Bob wasn’t going to let this lie. “Where is he?”

“Bob no! Please just don’t leave me.” You were trying to keep it together but it wasn’t working. All the voices around you were echoing in your head.

A rude reporter walked up to you two. “Hey I’m Hal with the New York Post, I wanna ask you guys a couple questions.”

“Not now.” Bob tried to brush him off.

“C’mon I’m trying to get the latest scoop here! Sentry gimme something!” He used his hero name.

Bob didn’t like that one bit, his eyes glowed and he melted his recorded and phone. “How’s that for a scoop.”

“What the fuck?!” Hal was pissed but security stepped in to escort him. “This fucker melted my phone!”

“Better your phone than your head.” Bob pulled you away. “I’m taking your home.”

“What about the gala?” You frowned.

“You’re my priority right now.” He found an exit and picked you up with ease, leaping to the sky. Cameras were flashing seeing you two escape into the night.

You quietly sniffled and thought about it all. Was this an omen? Was this man really in your future and he wanted to hurt you?

Bob kissed your head and he wished he could make you forget. He’d help you get to the bottom of this. He had to.

Chapter Text

You were trying to wrap your head around it, the man’s face felt familiar but so far away.

“Talk to me Sunny.” Bob broke the silence.

“I think I need to call Bruce.” You pulled your phone out and dialed it. You hoped he’d answer at this time of night.

Bruce was up tinkering away when he saw your call coming through. “Hey kiddo! How’s everything going?”

“Hey Bruce…you have a second?” You decided to sit on the couch next to Bob.

“What’s wrong?” He could hear the tone in your voice.

“I had a bad dream and I saw someone in it and tonight I saw them at the gala. Is that a premonition or something?” You felt Bob soothing your back.

He pulled up your file that your power set and precognition was on there. “What did you see?”

“I had tubes coming out of me sucking me dry and this guy came out of the shadows with eyes full of hate.” You looked at your feet.

“Describe him to me.” He was ready to help you.

“Well,” you described him as best you could from his dirty blonde hair and his height, “he called me Sunflower. No one else called me that except for mom.”

He went through the files associated with your project and one name was blacked out entirely. “I’m looking now and I’ll get back to you ok? Just relax and stay with Bob.”

“I will, thank you Bruce.” You were happy to be getting answers soon.

The man was still at the gala , watching the other avengers talk amongst each other that their two teammates bailed on them.

He didn’t know he could have that effect on you even though you were only a toddler the last time he saw you. But no matter, he had you scared the same way.

“You’ll soon be mine little sunflower and your mom won’t be there to protect you.” He chuckled darkly to himself as he made his exit.

He casually passed by Mel, Valentina, the rest of the Avengers. All those walls put up between you and him were crumbling down.

Bruce was able to uncover the name blacked out and he had a sinking feeling. Michael Ross. Grace’s ex husband. Oh he knew this man all too well because his uncle had tried to kill him more than once.

This was not good at all.

Bruce instantly called you back, hoping you’d answer but all he got was a busy tone. Fuck!

You were on the phone with Mel who was trying to clear things up. “I’m sorry, I had an anxiety attack and my powers were about to go haywire if Bob didn’t get me out of the building.”

“Oh no we wouldn’t want that.” Mel heard you.

“Valentina can be mad all she wants to if she didn’t want the building to be leveled.” You looked out the window.

“I think she’s just a bit pissed that Bob melted a reporter’s phone.”

“He was being a jerk to us, wanting to force an interview.” You shook your head.

“Are you sure you’re ok?” Mel asked again.

“I’ll be fine I just need to calm down.” You took a deep breath.

“Just get some rest ok?” Mel hung up.

You heard the line cut and saw you missed a call from Bruce, redialing his number again. “I’m sorry Bruce! Had to handle something PR related.”

“That’s ok, do you remember anyone by the name of Michael Ross.” Bruce asked, that name was tickling something in the back of your head.

You tried to think back to your past but it was very vague. “I think so…he was someone close to my mom right?”

“Try ex husband.” Bruce filled in that blank.

“I thought everyone related to the project was killed or buried.” You rubbed the back of your neck.

“Not this guy, he’s slick and he has connections that could get him in and out of trouble. What are you gonna do?”

“Nothing. If he wants something from me, then he can try to get close.” You challenged him.

“Honey I think you should tell Bucky, get him in on the loop. Because this Ross guy will pull any string to hurt you or those around you.”

“I’ll tell him, I promise. Thank you Bruce for everything.” You were happy to have an ally at your side.

“Of course kiddo, I’d do anything for you. We’ll chat later.” He let you go for now.

“He’s Grace’s ex husband?” Bob asked.

“Yeah and I won’t put it past him if this is a sick game of revenge.” You were still trying to remember him exactly, where he was in your childhood.

“Are you going to tell Bucky?”

You shook your head. “I don’t know…I know I should but I don’t want to seem like I’m blowing this out of proportion because my only lead is a nightmare that I saw in my head.”

“It wouldn’t hurt.” He kissed your temple.

Unfortunately that time would never come, as soon as the team came back from the gala, Bucky had a folder in his hand. “Mission just came through.”

“Already?!” You were disappointed obviously.

“I know it’s not ideal but it’s something that has to be done, we have some things to clean up.”

Another mission was assigned personally by Val as a favor. An old SHIELD facility had been overtaken by a criminal organization and it was up to the Avengers to clear them out to preserve the good name that was SHIELD.

You gave Bob a kiss for good luck. “I’ll be back ok?”

Bob kissed you back. “I’ll be waiting.” He had to stay because he was sort of grounded for his behavior at the gala. He couldn’t be risked being seen outside after his display of power.

“I’ll miss you on comms.” You gave him one more hug.

“I know.” He held you close, just taking in your scent.

You joined the rest of the team on the quinjet, even piloting under Bucky’s watchful eye. “How am I doing Sergeant Barnes?”

“Pretty good so far.” Bucky made sure the coordinates were set before letting you fly. “Keep yours eyes forward ok?”

“Yes, sir.” You smiled happily, keeping the quinjet steady.

“So what happened at the gala? You and Bob ditched us.” Yelena asked.

“I uh…had an anxiety attack. It came out of nowhere.” You partially lied.

“I’m sorry about that kid, you’re good now right?” Bucky hated that you had an episode.

“Yeah I’ll be fine.” You nodded.

As you neared the facility, Bucky took over for the landing. “We split up into teams to cover more ground.” Bucky said.

“Copy.” John made sure his comms were on.

“I call having the little bird on my team.” Alexei nodded.

“Ok fine, I’ll go with Ghost here.” John sighed.

“And Yelena you’ll go with the winter soldier.” He added.

“Stop calling me that.” Bucky found it annoying.

You and Alexei took the front, it seemed quiet but it was obvious people were using the facility. “Keep your eyes peeled little bird.”

“Yes, Alexei.” You opened your ears, hearing something familiar that pulled on your heart strings. “What is that?”

“I hear it too.” He took point, “stay behind me.” He found himself protective over you like a father would to a child.

You watched him kick down a door and the singing was playing again. It was like a control room of sorts and each screen had something from your past life.

The screen in the middle was playing a recording of Grace rocking you to sleep while singing the song that calmed you down. “What the hell is this?”

“Welcome home JG050203 or should I say Sunflower.” A voice that you didn’t think you’d hear again came through. “You may not remember me because you were only small. Your mother did a good job in keeping me away.”

“No it can’t be…” You shook your head as your chest felt cold.

“You said you’d protect your mother but you didn’t.” The surveillance footage of your mother’s death played on a loop on all screens.

“Stop it…” You looked away quickly. “No!”

“You couldn’t protect your mother and now you can’t protect your friends.” A count down started. “Times ticking Sunflower.” The time was displayed on all the screens.

Alexei did the honors and destroyed the screens. “Let’s go little bird!”

“Evacuate the building! I repeat evacuate the building!” You called out on the comms.

“On our way out!” Bucky put Yelena in front of him and ran for the exit.

The mission was a set up. The building was lined with explosives and it wasn’t Valentina’s doing this time. It was Michael Ross that wanted you alive but your teammates dead.

Bucky was in the quinjet trying to get it powered on but something was wrong. “Fuck it’s not responding!”

“We don’t have time for this!” Yelena tried to troubleshooting but it was all dark.

John made it on board with Ava. “Ava saw the explosives lined and this whole place is gonna be a crater if we don’t get the fuck out of here!”

“Well the quinjet is dead and we won’t make it out of the blast zone in time.” Bucky broke the news.

“We’re here!” Alexei came on board.

“Quinjet is dead and we’re out of time.” John repeated to him.

“Fuck!” He rubbed his face.

You knew what you had to do, you needed to save your family. You slipped back out when you started hearing pops in the building, you put yourself between the quinjet and the bunker.

“Kid what are you doing?!” Bucky saw you out the window.

“Getting you out of here.” You summoned your strength and projected a shield while you raised the quinjet, giving it power.

The building started blowing up and the blast was reaching the shield. Thankfully, the quinjet was slowly powering up. Your power was making you glow like the sun. “I’ll be ok I promise!”

The ground started giving way, fire was rising up. You poured more energy into the quinjet, fully turning it back on.

“We have power! Kid get your ass back in here!” Bucky called out to you.

“Go Bucky. Go!” You let go of the quinjet, trying to contain the blast but it was too much energy to absorb.

He hated the notion of leaving you behind but he had faith, when he felt you let go, he punched the gas to get out of there.

The explosion engulfed you completely and your comms went dark.

“Turn around!! We have to get her back!” Alexei saw that everything was being leveled.

“She gave us a chance to go! We’ll get her back!” Bucky hoped and set a course for a safe house.

Everyone sat quietly, why did this happen? Why did this mission feel like a set up. “Something wasn’t right with this.” John shook his head.

“The room that we stumbled into, a man’s voice was speaking to her as if he knew the little bird. Someone that her mother knew.” Alexei rubbed his face.

“We’ll regroup and we fight another day.” Bucky told him.

“What about Bob?” Ava added.

“We’ll worry about him later.” He didn’t want to think about having to break the news to him.

The team was sitting in a safe house planning the next move. “How do we get her back?” John was pacing around.

“I don’t know.” Bucky was trying to think of something.

Yelena’s concentration was broken when your phone started ringing. She warily picked it up and she braced herself when she answered. “Bob?”

“Hey! Is everything going ok?” Bob thought it was odd Yelena picked up your phone.

“Bob.” She tried to stayed composed. “The mission went bad, Sunny got taken and we’re trying to think of a plan to get her back.”

There was silence then he started laughing. “That’s funny…a cruel joke Yelena.”

“I’m serious Bob, this mission was a set up and they have Sunny as a prisoner.” Yelena heard the line drop.

Bob had crushed his phone in his hands. You were taken from him and all of this could’ve been prevented if he had just gone with you.

He looked at his reflection and Void was looking back at him. “You know what you have to do, what we have to do.”

“Yes.” Void nodded.

Bob went to the room and pulled out the box he thought he’d never open. Like you, a costume was redesigned specifically for him.

He dawned his new outfit, adding your bracelet you wore to the gala onto his gauntlet. You needed him and he’d bring you home safely. He turned to look the picture of both your mothers. “I promise I’ll bring her home. You have my word.”

He went to the helipad and took a deep breath. “I’m coming Sunny.” He trusted in his powers and took off into the air.

The group was terrified now. Yelena looked at them all. “He thought I was joking and then the line went dead.”

“That’s great…real fucking great.” John felt like he needed to punch something. “We lost Sunny and now we have another threat: a distraught Bob.”

“No we can use him as a battering ram to get Sunny back.” Alexei tried to stay positive.

“Or he could level the world trying to find her and not enough PR could fix that.” Ava scoffed.

A harsh landing was heard outside and it caught everyone’s attention.

“Fuck! it’s Sentry.” John looked out the window. “Yelena you go talk to him.”

“Oh my God fine!” Yelena opened the door warily. “Bob?”

“Yeah it’s me.” Bob spoke freely. “I should’ve been there and none of this would’ve happened.”

“It was a set up, we didn’t know.” Yelena said gently. “We don’t have many leads.”

“I got one, can we talk inside?” Bob needed to sit.

“Ok.” She stepped aside to let him in. “He’s fine.”

“How do we know that he won’t try to kill us.” John wasn’t budging.

“Because I want to my fiancée back and I will not hesitate if you get in my way.” Bob wasn’t having it.

“What’s the lead you said you had.” Yelena broke the tension. “And did you just say fiancée?”

“Michael Ross, Grace’s ex husband. Sunny had a nightmare where she saw his face and at the gala she saw him in the flesh. That’s why we left early.” He had to keep calm because he could feel Void underneath the surface. “Yes I did say fiancée.”

“Oh fuck…how do you know all this?” Ava wondered.

“Because she called Bruce scared out of her mind and that was the answer he came up with. She predicted her own fate and now she’s gone.”

“Bob.” Alexei stepped forward. “We’ll get her back. Also nice costume, it suits you.”

“Thanks.” He let out a sigh.

“The little bird was rattled by what the evil showed her on the screen, saying how she couldn’t protect her own mother and played the security footage of on a loop.” He crossed his arms.

“So the Michael Ross guy is scum.” John hated that you went through that.

“And we’ll find him and end him ourselves, no one does that to one of us and gets away with it.” Bucky was willing to do the dirty work.

“Where do we start?” Bob looked at him.

Chapter Text

Bucky did his homework on Michael Ross and uncovered an old newspaper article that documented his wedding to Grace. “Rising Star Michael Ross and distinguished scientist Dr. Grace Dalton marry in front of their friends and colleagues in a very intimate ceremony.”

Yelena looked at the photo displayed. “They looked happy.”

“They were happy for a time.” Bucky continued reading.

Bob memorized the man’s face, he was the one who wanted to hurt you and he’d make him pay.

Bucky’s screen flickered. “Bob I know you’re anxious but please don’t fry my laptop.”

“Sorry.” He took a breath to recenter himself. Losing control would be counterproductive right now.

“Since when did you and Arizona get engaged?” John thought that would be good enough to distract him.

“It happened on a whim, I tossed the idea around that we could get married in our fancy clothes but she didn’t want to ditch you guys at the gala.” He couldn’t help but smile.

“Always thinking of us.” Yelena felt her heart hurting in that moment.

“We stopped at a jewelry store and were just looking until a guy came in trying to rob the place, I stopped him. The shopkeeper let us have the rings as a thank you.” He looked at John.

Bucky was hacking away trying to download any other information he could on Ross’s whereabouts while he was listening to Bob. “So where does she want to get married?”

“The beach. She wants a beach wedding and I know she’d want you guys there because you’re family.” He nodded.

“Of course we’re family, we will fight for our little bird.” Alexei spoke softly this time, this wasn’t the time to be boasting or yelling.

This shift really made Yelena look at him, shit he really did care about you.

Bucky found that Ross had a gap of time between his marriage and the date that coincided with Grace’s death. “I believe Ross was somehow involved in the Phoenix Project during the early stages.”

“Bruce did say that he’s the only survivor that wasn’t liquidated.” Bob added.

“We’re going to change that.” Ava stood up, her feelings were in the gutter and she didn’t want to think that you were probably somewhere either hurt or scared.

Ross’s people were dispatched to pick you up from ground zero, one of them had doubts.

“How can anyone survive this?” One of them asked. “Everything is ash.”

“Ross says that she’s built of sterner stuff, it won’t be that hard to find her.” Their partner looked at them.

Combing through the rubble carefully, someone was able to point you out. “I found her! Unconscious but she has a pulse.”

You were strapped to a gurney and transported out to the new base of operations. Ross was awaiting your arrival while he had something of Grace’s in his hands.

“I know you wouldn’t want this but I will follow the true objective this project.” He whispered to the bracelet. “I’ll make her realize her true purpose.”

“Sir they’re bringing in the package.” One of his people relayed the message, taking him out of his headspace.

“Good, make sure they keep her restrained and have the sedative at the ready.” He ordered.

“Yes, sir.”

While you were still unconscious, a medic was checking you over as a precaution, cleaning your face of the soot and ash. They were sympathetic towards but you were dangerous.

You could feel face was being cleaned and thought it was your mom. Your eyes opened slowly to the medic. “Mama?” Your voice was raspy from inhaling smoke.

The medic flashed a light in your eyes, seeing your pupils reacting just fine. “I’m sorry.” They pushed a button and you were instantly restrained.

“Let me go…please!” You tried using your powers but you were met with an electrical shock that felt like fire from the inside from the restraints. “AHHHH!!”

“Leave us.” Michael came inside the room.

The medic left quickly and the table raised you up where you were now upright. “What do you want from me?”

“Is that any way to speak to your father?” He tilted his head.

“I don’t remember you calling you my dad.” You didn’t like where this was going, you tried looking beyond him for a way out.

“Oh? Well maybe this will help jog your memory.” He forcibly put Grace’s bracelet in your hand.

You tried not to absorb it but the restrains dulled your walls and your mind was instantly taken back to where it all started.

Grace was at the dinner table, she was rereading the results from her last check up. She had a couple positive pregnancy tests but her body couldn’t support it.

Michael came in with flowers from well wishers. “Honey?”

“What?” She said softly.

“Did you eat today?” He put the flowers on the counter, they were a bouquet of different yellow flowers. Sunflowers were among them.

“I ate what I could.” She put the paper down.

He came over and gave her a gentle hug. “I wish I could take the pain away.”

“I know.” She sighed. “Why couldn’t they stay?”

“I don’t know…sometimes things happen that are out of our control.” He kissed her head. “Whenever you’re ready we can talk about it more.”

“I swore I could feel them before…” She touched her stomach.

“And you gave them love.” He was also mourning in his own way.

Grace’s phone started ringing and it was an unknown number but she knew it was work. “I have to take this.”

“Grace we need time to heal.” He didn’t like that she wanted to get back to work.

She broke out of his arms and answered the call. “Dr. Grace Dalton here.”

Michael couldn’t stop her from grabbing her jacket and grabbing her keys. Work always came first.

“They need me.” She hung up the phone.

“I know.” He nodded, feeling defeated.

“I love you.” She kissed him goodbye.

“I love you more.” He kissed her back, not knowing it would be awhile before he’d see her again.

And he was right.

Grace was immediately in love with the infant that crashed landed to earth. The baby needed a mother and she wanted to heal.

“I’ll protect you always.” Grace was rocking you to sleep, humming a soft tune to soothe you.

Weeks turned into months. Months turned into two years.

Grace had sent updates whenever she could but the project was so top secret that all her messages were screened multiple times before being sent out.

Michael missed his wife so much. He wanted her back so he concocted a way to get himself inside. He used his silver tongue to open the door wide open to get inside the unmarked bunker with credentials.

Michael was a smart man, he had the education, the charm, the know how to get into places he needed to be in. He was walking towards the room labeled the play room, scanning his key card to open the door.

Little you was running towards Grace’s legs as she was working at her desk. She was documenting your progress when the door opened. “Michael?”

“Honey, I’m home.” He smiled as if he saw her only yesterday.

“How did you get here?” She tried not to sound accusatory.

“Like I always do, I asked around and here I am.” He saw you hugging her legs. “Who is this?”

“On paper she’s called JG050302 but I call her Sunflower.” Grace picked you up. “She crash landed on earth and she’s the offspring of a very powerful mutant.”

“Which one?” Michael had heard of a few class 5 mutants that were on a watch list.

“Jean Grey, we’ve surmised that she’s deceased and so we were put in charge of this little one’s care. If it’s not the American government looking after her, then anyone else is deemed a threat.”

“So we’re babysitting a walking weapon.” He was blunt about it.

“No, I’m raising this one to be a good person so she can help others.” She kissed your cheek.

“Doesn’t that break protocol? You’re attached to her.”

“No, it’s a natural bond.” Grace felt you snuggling into her neck. “Ok sweet girl it’s almost time for your nap.”

“Can we talk? I mean really talk.” Michael really missed her.

“Ok.” She felt it was the right thing to do since she was gone for two years. When you were tucked in for your nap, she brought him over to the couch.

“You really became a mother to something not from our world.” He held her hand.

“Because who else would? She needed me…and I needed her.” She said gently.

“I know…I needed you too.” He sighed.

“I’m sorry…I know leaving wasn’t the best choice.” She sniffled.

“But I’m here now. Maybe Sunflower would benefit from having a father figure.” He wiped her face.

“We can try it.” She wanted it to work. Oh she really did.

Everyday with you was always something new and exciting. You were still nervous around Michael and she noticed it right away.

Michael was on the floor with you, trying to win you over to please his wife. “C’mon Sunflower, I got your ball right here.”

You took a couple steps towards him, focusing on the ball. You raised your little hands to coax the ball from him.

Michael felt the pull of the ball and he let it go, watching it float towards you and into your hand. “Whoa…”

You laughed and ran into his arms. “Da! Da!”

He was surprised that he unknowingly passed your trust exercise. “I am your dad!” He hugged you close.

Grace was so happy to hear when Michael told him the good news. “She called you dada.”

“Yes she did!” For a while, he was proud of that but little did he know that it would sour everything.

Michael had gone over the project timeline himself and your final purpose was to be an asset to the government, a source of power to tout over any opposition.

He thought that was the most sensible thing to do. You’d be under control, you wouldn’t disobey as long as he was your father.

That’s where he and Grace differed. “When she’s old enough I’m going to take her from here.”

“You can’t do that because she’s already marked to be an asset.” Michael eyed her.

“She’s a child!”

“She’s a weapon, Grace. You knew that going into this.” He raised his voice.

You came into the room clutching your bear, mama was afraid, you looked at Michael and without hesitation you pushed him against the wall with your mind.

“Baby no!” Grace went over to you to pick you up.

He was stunned at your display of power but he was crushed that his own wife went to you first. “I see where I stand. One day you’ll realize that what you’re doing is a mistake.”

She took off her ring and handed it to him. “I’m rectifying one.” She was a mother first.

“You’ll regret this.” He took the ring back and left.

You came out of it exhausted and a tear streaming down your face. “Don’t turn me into monster…”

“You’re already are one.” He snapped his fingers and you were put under.

Under heavy sedation, your subconscious created a safe haven. No pain, no suffering, it was calm.

The sound of the ocean could be heard from the open windows. This was the beach house your mother Grace always talked about.

“Wake up honey! I made breakfast.” Grace called out to you.

You sat up in your bed and stretched. “Coming mama!”

Grace was standing at the kitchen island when you walked in. “Wow…you’re so beautiful my little sunflower.”

“Thank you mama.” You gave her a hug, feeling so happy she was ok. “How are you?”

“I’m happy to be here with you.” She kissed your head. “Now let’s eat.”

“Yes!” You pulled up your seat out and started eating the pancakes she made.

“Brain waves are stable.” One of the scientists was monitoring you.

“Excellent work.”Ross was had them put a crown on your head to get you to change, a little something he stumbled upon from a defunct project from HYDRA.

You were already showing much promise than he anticipated, with your power, he could bring the world to kneel.

As you were having breakfast with Grace, there was a knock at the door. “Want me to get it mama?”

“No I’ll get it.” Grace put her coffee cup down, the door opening on its own, revealing Jean behind it.

“Where is she?” Jean walked in.

“She’s having breakfast.” Grace followed her.

“Mom?” You were confused by how she was here.

“My baby.” She wrapped her arms around you. “Are you ok?”

“I think so…I’m happy to be home.” You looked at her.

“But you know this isn’t home.” She stroked your cheek.

“But it’s safer in here, they can’t hurt me.” You shook your head.

“I want you to listen to me, we need to call for help.” She needed you to understand.

“I don’t want to leave.” You went to Grace’s side. “I just got my mama back.”

Jean sighed and let the flames consume her in the living room, she let out a burst of energy that reflected on the outside.

Your eyes opened for a moment, shining brightly, before shutting. It scared the officers watching you, but it was a telepathic signal flare that could be heard by anyone that was listening.

“Start the process.” Ross had them turn on the crown break through your mental stronghold.

Chapter Text

Bob was sleeping when he felt your energy, he concentrated to try and maintain the location. He came out of the room scrambling for a pen and paper.

Bucky was lightly sleeping when he heard Bob in the kitchen. “Bob? What’s wrong kid?”

“I felt her…I felt Sunny!” He scribbled all he could get from the vision that popped into his head.

Bucky came over and the scribbles were taking shape, it looked like a facility of sorts built into a mountain side.

He quickly went to his computer to pull up something he came across during his search. “The facility was destroyed over two decades ago when a dam flooded the valley. Looks like someone has been rebuilding it.”

“We have to go now!” Bob just wanted you back.

“Believe me I know but we need a solid plan or else going in guns blazing will get her killed or worse.” Bucky had to be the levelheaded one.

“But she’s hurt now!” Bob’s eyes started glowing.

“And that means she’s still alive, she’s a strong girl and I know she won’t go down without a fight, you need to give her a chance Bob.” Bucky emphasized.

He stood down, Bucky was right. “Fine.”

“We will get her back and you’ll be the battering ram.” He chuckled.

“I can live with that.” Bob could hear the Void wanting to argue with him, he looked over his shoulder.

“We could go get her now and we’ll be home before sunrise!” Void hissed at him.

“Bucky’s right, we do this as a team.” Bob said out loud.

“I’ll download any schematics I can find and we’ll come up with a plan.” Bucky promised him.

Xavier felt the ripple of energy and he deciphered it as a call for help from you. But the location of where it came from made his blood run cold. Alkali Lake.

Scott was coming up to visit with the professor when he heard a message in his mind.

Go to Alkali Lake my X-Men, Jean’s daughter is in danger and needs our help.

Scott felt his breath hitch in his throat, he needed to be sure about this. He entered the professor’s office. “Is it really her?”

“Yes, her energy is on the same level as Jean.” Xavier knew how much this meant to him. “Save her and bring her back here.”

“Yes of course.” Scott went down to the basement to suit up. He’d come for you no matter what.

Logan noticed how quickly he was moving. “Did you confirm with the old man? Is it really Jean’s kid?”

“Yes.” Scott looked at him. “We need to save her no matter what.”

“I know.” Logan wasn’t going to argue with him.

Storm and Nightcrawler were ready to go in the Blackbird.

Scott couldn’t believe you were alive, that brought hope to his heart that a piece of Jean was still alive.

The crown was turned on, the brainwashing process had begun. You clutched your head as it felt like a burning knife inside your home. Your safe space was coming undone but Jean put up another barrier.

“I’ll buy us more time I promise!” Jean stood firm against the front door.

“It’ll be ok honey!” Grace held you, trying to soothe your pain.

“I’m scared mama.” You whimpered. “I’m so scared…”

“We’re not leaving you, ok? Not ever!” She watched Jean stabilizing the door.

Meanwhile, the Avengers assembled quickly to save you. Bob was on edge because he could feel your pain. “We have to hurry.”

Bucky landed somewhere safely and cloaked the quinjet. “Ok remember the plan.”

“We go in, crash the party, dispatch anyone that gets in our way, and save our Sunny.” Yelena made sure her gun was loaded.

“Bob you’re up.” Bucky gave him the go ahead.

Bob the battering ram could sense where he needed to go, with one swift punch to the side of the building, he broke through like it was paper. “Let’s go!”

The alarms were going off and Ross looked at his security team. “Kill them all.”

“Yes sir.” The leader signaled his men to go where the breach was.

“Start the wiping process.” He looked to the officers.

“Are you sure?” One of them looked at Ross.

“Do it, that’s an order!”

They pushed the button and the crown lit up again. Ross came up to your side, whispering in your ear. “We’ll build you back up from scratch and I’ll have you wipe out your friends if it comes down to it.”

You heard Ross’s words and it chilled you to the core. No you couldn’t do it. You wouldn’t! They were your family!

Jean looked at you. “Honey do you want to keep them safe?”

“Yes I do!” You put your hands on the floor, making everything stop in the house. Silence.

“Then trust in me.” She put her hands on yours.

You looked into her glowing eyes, seeing everything in the universe that was possible. “I do.”

The Avengers met up with the security forces that tried to stop them, but they had the Sentry. A very pissed off Sentry that just wanted his woman back.

His eyes glowed yellow. “Take care of them, I’m going after Sunny.”

“Go on ahead, we’ll catch up.” Bucky watched him walk past them, the bullets were just bouncing off like nothing.

Your brain waves were going off the charts, making the machines fizzle out. The team didn’t want to stay so they just evacuated, abandoning Ross.

“Fucking cowards!!” Ross pushed the remaining machine to its limit to complete the wipe process.

You screamed in your mind from the pain seeping through as the sedative was wearing off
Your vitals were spiking then crashed completely, flat lining.

“Sunny!” Bob called out to you, hearing your heart stop a second time. The sound broke his heart as he turned his attention to Ross who looked very unhinged.

Ross came over to you, “you better wake up! I know you can!” He held your face harshly.

Bob immediately stepped in and threw him away from you. “What have you done?!”

“Fulfilling her purpose…like the fire bird she is, I had to kill her old self and the new one shall be reborn!” Ross got up.

“Come back to me…please! Come back to me.” Bob was scared to move you, “please Sunny.”

Bob’s voice echoed in your mind and your safe space turned into flames, translating outwardly. The crown melted off your head from the intensity of your flames.

You broke out of your restraints in pure unbridled rage, the flames were burning brightly around but not in the gentle yellow orange color. It was red.

Bob could feel the power you were radiating, you were an angry red giant on earth. He had to step back or risk getting burned.

Michael was in awe, laughing hysterically. “Look at you! Oh my God look at you Sunflower! You’re a divine entity!”

“She’s not here.” Came a distorted voice that wasn’t your own but the women who gave their lives for you.

“Grace?” For a moment he saw her standing behind you before she disappeared into the flames. He had a moment of clarity but it came too late.

“No.” This new force raised your hand, forcing him to his feet to meet your eyes. “I. Am. Phoenix.”

He screamed as the Phoenix flames surged through his eyes, embalming every inch of him in your fury.

Bob couldn’t do anything but watch you take your revenge. You dropped Ross’s dead body, his eyes were burned out of his skull and blood leaked from his ears.

“I am not your monster.” You hissed at his corpse.

“Sunny?” He took a step forward, seeing your head snap towards him like a feral animal.

You silenced yourself, your head tilting in familiarity. Your fractured mind only remembering some things. “Sentry?”

“No it’s Bobby…remember?” He took another cautious step forward.

“Bobby…” You let out a breath and your flames instantly went out, falling limp to the floor.

“Oh no no no no!” Bob quickly picked you up, checking if your heart was still beating. Thankfully it was but it was slow. “C’mon wake up…please!”

You didn’t open your eyes.

You couldn’t.

You were a helpless bird in his arms.

“Don’t you dare fucking leave me ok?” He carried you out of the room you were being tortured in, heading towards the sound of many voices. “I’ll take you to Bucky and he’ll know what to do.”

Meanwhile, the new Avengers just met the X-Men. “Who sent you?” Scott asked first, taking note of the body count around their feet.

“We should be asking you the same thing.” John saw their uniforms. “Who are you guys?”

“We’re the X-Men.” Storm decided to be the peacekeeper. “Who are you?”

“We are the new Avengers!” Alexei said proudly.

Bucky looked at Logan, eyeing him up and down. “Have we met before?”

“Don’t think so.” Logan definitely recognized him from the Second World War but he wouldn’t say that outright.

“So why are you here?” John asked once more.

“We were sent here to save a girl, the daughter of our friend.” Storm finally answered the question.

“Bucky!” Bob called out to him, being careful of you in his arms.

“You got her?!” Bucky saw you weren’t moving and he came over to him. “What of Ross?”

“She killed him and then her flames went out, she’s not waking up!” Bob was trying to hold it together.

“We’ll get her home and she’ll be fine.” He checked your pulse, feeling it was slow.

Scott came close and he only stopped when Bob’s eyes glowed at him. “I’m not here to hurt either of you…let us take her back to the manor and she’ll get the best care there.”

“No she’s coming home with us.” John wasn’t like this, he kept his finger on the trigger.

Logan unsheathed his claws and got under John’s neck. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”

“ENOUGH!” Bob found his voice finally. “She needs help…if you can get her the help quickly, I’ll take her anywhere.”

“Just follow us.” Scott couldn’t see your face because it was turned away. “You’ll be welcomed at the manor as long as you don’t harm anyone there.”

“So as long as you don’t hurt Sunny.” Bob walked past everyone to the quinjet. Yelena and Ava followed while Alexei pulled John back.

“We’ll deal with him later.” Alexei whispered to him.

“Sure.” John put his gun away.

Logan put his claws away, huffing a bit. “I already don’t like him.”

“At least you didn’t stab him.” Storm started walking with the rest of the team.

Scott could feel his heart racing more. You were hurt in the same place that he lost Jean. “I got our girl now Jean…I’ll take care of her I promise.” He whispered to himself.

Bucky heard Scott’s declaration without meaning to, all of you were connected in some cosmic way, all because of your mother.

He got back up the quinjet, everyone was quiet and somber. He followed the Blackbird back to the X-Manor.

Bob clutched you tightly and his emotions were bubbling over, he was crying without meaning to. “Come back to me…please.”

Chapter Text

The hanger opened for the Blackbird and the Quinjet to land safely.

Bucky looked at his team. “We need to be civil for her sake ok?”

“We will.” Yelena spoke for everyone.

Bob carried you out and was greeted by a big furry blue man waiting with a gurney for you.

“I’m Hank McCoy, I’ll be taking care of Ms. Grey. Can you lay her on the gurney please?” Hank was already debriefed so he was taking the gentle approach.

“Ok.” Bob put you down on gurney and kissed your head. “You’re gonna be ok I promise.”

“We’ll let you know when you can come and see her.” Hank wheeled you away to the medical bay.

Ororo came over to him. “She’s in great hands and I see you care a lot about her.”

“She’s my fiancée so yeah I do care a lot about her.” He showed her the bracelet. “I made a promise to her mothers that I’d get her out safely.”

She immediately recognized the bracelet, “where’d you get that?”

“Elaine gave it to Sunny for a gala we went to. She was so happy wearing her mom’s jewelry.” He smiled little.

“Tell me more about you two.” She was genuine and that made Bob relax some.

“Sure.” He followed her out, while the rest of the team followed behind.

She brought them all to a conference room to hangout while the students were in a passing period to class.

“Are all the children mutants? Like Sunny?” Yelena saw some of them passing by.

“Yes, the professor finds them and brings them here for safety. We give them education like any other school while also teaching them about their powers.” She smiled a little, waving to one of her students.

“When me and Sunny met, it was in Malaysia. We were lab rats and I’m the only one who survived the trials. Then we got put into boxes and woke up three years later to these guys.” He gestured to the team.

“Oh God.” Ororo felt her heart breaking. “I’m so sorry.”

“It’s ok, most of the people that hurt us are dead and our team has been family for most of the year.” He put it plainly. “Now we were haunted by ghosts of her past…I just hope it’s over now.”

“You’re all safe here.” Her heart was breaking for you and Bob, you two suffered through so much and yet you were alive under their noses.

Hank was able to stabilize you and he saw Scott walk in. “She’s not awake yet.”

“I know…I just wanted to see her.” Scott brushed some hair from your face. “I can see so much of Jean in her.”

“I can do a DNA test if you want certainty, Scott.” Hank offered.

“I know she’s her mother’s daughter and that’s what matters to me.” Scott couldn’t believe you survived such a horrible place. “You’re safe here.” He kissed your head.

Hank attached sensors to your head to monitor brain activity. It was quiet for now. A couple days went by and you still weren’t waking up on your own.

Bob had come by to see you. “Why won’t she wake up?”

“She’s not comatose but since she expended so much psychic energy, she’s retreated into her own mind.” That was the only logical explanation Hank had come up with.

Bob held your hand. “I-I can’t do this without you…remember our plans for a wedding on the beach? Please wake up.” He sniffled.

You could hear him from inside but you were afraid to come out. The monitors were showing activity. “Keep talking to her.”

“We’ll rent a beach house and everything for our honeymoon. We’ll do whatever you want.” His powers leaked out into you, projecting a happier memory into your mind.

Your brainwaves were becoming more active as you were reliving it. It was the first time Bob said he loved you. His sweet voice echoed all around you.

In the darkness, a light opened up and you followed it. “I’m coming Bobby!” It was a false light, you were right back where you started, an ash riddled plot of land and a broken pier.

You went to sit down on the edge of the pier as you cried out in frustration. Why couldn’t you get out of your own head?!

The brainwaves calmed down back to normal like they were before.

“What happened?” Bob saw Hank rub his face.

“Telepaths often project barriers in their own minds as a form of protection against others but in turn, they protect against themselves without meaning to.”

“I-I can probably go in and get her out.” Bob wanted to help in some way.

“I’m sorry son but your powers are still juvenile and if you go in too fast, you can damage her mind and she won’t be the same.” Hank broke it to him.

Bob wouldn’t forgive himself if he caused any more damage to you. “Who can go in there safely?”

“That would be me.” Professor Xavier came into the room. “With your permission, I’ll enter her mind and open the door for her.”

“Why are you asking me?” Bob didn’t think he was that important.

“Because you’re her fiancé Robert and you’re her family. It’s only right that I ask you.”

That fact hit him harder than expected as he swallowed the lump in his throat while looking at you then at the professor. “Do it.”

“Step out into the hall and Hank will call you back in once it’s safe.” Xavier didn’t want anything to go wrong or have Bob lash out with his powers.

“Ok.” He walked out on his own and sat down, seeing Scott waiting in the wings. “You’re Scott right?”

“And you’re Bob.” Scott came a little closer. “What’s happening in there?”

“The professor guy is gonna go inside Sunny’s head to help her get out.” Bob sat down.

“He knows what he’s doing.” Scott stood next to him. “Trust me.”

“We don’t trust that many people, fathers especially.” He shook his head. “You’re worried about her too?”

“Of course I am. She’s a part of me just like she’s a part of you.” Scott was being gentle with his wording.

“…Sorry about nearly zapping you back at the facility. My powers are still new to me.” He sighed.

“It’s ok, no harm done kid. Why do you think I rock these red sunglasses all the time?” Scott joked lightly.

“Right.” He looked at his feet, wondering how long it would take for you to come back.

Professor Xavier gently rested his hands on either side of your head and concentrated. He carefully entered your mind. It was very layered and protected.

The energy felt maternal. Your mother’s love protected you even beyond the veil of death. You held onto a piece of it so strongly.

He saw you on a pier being comforted by a projecting of Jean and Grace. “Sunny.” He noted the beach house was all ashes and the skies were cloudy.

Slowly you turned your head to him. “I know you…”

“It’s time to come home.” He came a little closer. “You have loved ones worried about you.”

“Is Bobby ok?” You asked.

“Yes he’s fine.” He saw your mothers slowly disappearing. He couldn’t help but avert his eyes as his heart couldn’t take seeing Jean disappear again.

“I’m scared…he saw me do something bad.” You sniffled.

He offered you his hand. “It’s alright.”

You took his hand. “What now?” The sun pierced through the clouds finally.

“Just open your eyes.” He smiled gently.

“Ok.” You nodded but wondered if it was that easy.

On the surface, Xavier relaxed as he retreated carefully out of your mind and watched you wake up slowly.

You opened your eyes, looking around, the weight of what happened to you was crushing. The first thing you could do was cry.

“Bring the boy in.” He looked to Hank as he wheeled himself out.

Hank nodded and stepped into the hallway where Bob was waiting patiently. “She’s awake.”

Bob instantly ran into the room. “Sunny!”

Hank waited outside to give you and Bobby some privacy.

“B-Bobby.” You sat up in your bed with your arms outstretched to him.

He held you tightly, crying into your shoulder. “You’re ok…I’m here.” He was happy you were here now.

You didn’t know how long you were crying for but your grip never faltered. You just needed him. When you finally caught your breath, you spoke.“Are you scared of me?”

“No…you did what I would’ve done.” He pressed his forehead against yours.

“Is everyone ok? The last thing I remember was…Fire and an explosion.” You tried to think more but a lot of it was coming up fuzzy.

“Everyone’s fine.” He held your face gently. “No one’s hurt I promise.”

“Thank God.” You saw the bags under his eyes and assumed he hadn’t been sleeping decently. “I heard you in my head but I couldn’t come out.”

“I know…you were protecting yourself from the inside and out.” He kissed your head. “I’m so happy you’re awake. The team hasn’t stopped worrying.”

“I bet.” You basked in the affection. “I owe you guys so much.”

“Because you’re the glue that holds our family together.” He smiled a little. “I know you would’ve done the same if it were any of us.”

“I’d burn the whole world down if it meant to get you back.” You replied the same way Bob did just a few days ago.

Chapter Text

You were moved to a recovery room when Hank deemed it was ok. The room had a view of the gardens and the manor seemed like a place you would’ve thrived in if Jean stayed on earth.

But this wasn’t your home, this place was haunted by your mother. The door opened to your room, hearing the team walking in with hopeful smiles and wary eyes.

“Hey kid.” Bucky was the first to say something.

“Hey Bucky.” You gave him a warm smile.

He felt it was right to hug you. “How are you feeling?”

“I think I’m ok? I just wanna go home.” You hugged him tightly.

“We’re glad you’re back with us little bird!” Alexei was relieved to see you mostly healed.

“Me too Alexei.” You saw Yelena take a seat on your bed.

“This place is really cool, all the students are mutants like you.” Yelena held your hand.

“I know.” You held her hand tightly. “Thanks for coming back for me.”

“We were just the support, Bob did most of the heavy lifting.” John gave credit where it was due.

“But all of you were there.” You replied. “How long have you guys been here?”

“A week and a half but the X-Men have been treating us nicely.” Ava nodded. “Where’s Bob?”

“Oh he’s getting me breakfast.” You smiled a bit. “He’s been stuck to me like glue.”

Bob was in the kitchen since Ororo gave him permission to be in there. He was making your favorite breakfast sandwich when he heard Scott walking in.

“Morning Bob.” Scott poured himself a cup of coffee.

“Morning Scott.” He finished plating your food.

“How is she?” He stirred in some sugar before adding creamer.

“She’s fine, just itching to go home.” He could feel your thoughts rather than hear them.

“Oh.” Scott hadn’t really had a chance to talk to you one on one.

“Look if you want to talk to her I can ask her for you.” He made sure your plate was done. “You’ll get the chance.”

“Thanks, Bob.” He knew he couldn’t push you or else risk having you recoil and want nothing to do with him.

Bob made his way to your room, he heard the team talking to you about what’s been going on the past few days.

It wasn’t much but they couldn’t stop telling you how much they missed you and how happy they were to have you back.

“Hey guys.” Bob came in.

“We’ll let you eat kid and I’ll go talk to the professor about discharging you.” Bucky smiled.

“Thanks Bucky.” You knew you could always count on him.

Bob came over with your plate. “I made your favorite.”

“You’re amazing.” You smiled and took a bite. “Mmm”

“I think your dad has been wanting to talk to you.” Bob ripped the bandaid off.

You swallowed. “Scott?”

“Yeah, he’s been treading lightly around me and wanting to get to know you.” He saw your eyes shifting.

“I get where he’s coming from but I don’t know…the last person I mistakenly called dad tried to brainwash me and have me kill everyone.” You sighed.

“I told him I’d ask you first.” He put his hand on your knee.

“This is why I love you.” You kissed his forehead.

“I know.” He blushed.

You were finally granted permission to go home. You were dressed in casual clothes and Ororo was doting on you.

“If you ever need anything, just give me a call ok?” She handed you her cell number.

“Thank you auntie Ororo.” You saw her soften when you called her that.

“Take care of yourself.” She hugged you close.

“I will.” Her hug felt so warm to you, you almost didn’t want to let go.

The team was waiting patiently on the quinjet to let you say your goodbyes.

Scott came down to the hanger as a last ditch effort to say something to you. “Sunny?”

You pulled away from Ororo and gave him your full attention. “Scott?”

“I know I haven’t been able to talk to you but whenever you’re ready, I want us to get to know each other.” He handed you a bear that he won for Jean on their first date.

You took it carefully, feeling the emotions from it and the echo of your mom’s laughter. “I’ll call you.” You nodded.

“Ok.” Now Scott just had to be patient. He watched you get on the quinjet and the door closed behind you.

When you finally made it to the watchtower, Val was waiting for you all. She was pissed that everyone suddenly didn’t know how to communicate.

It wasn’t until Bucky explained what happened and for the first time you saw Val look at you with sympathy. “So you all banded together to save her.”

“They did.” You held the bear close. “This doesn’t need to be front page news, please.”

She took out a card and held it out to you. Of course Bucky took it immediately.

“It’s not an explosive device.” Val saw how protective he was. “It’s a business card for a good therapist. Just in case, I don’t need you having a nightmare that brings this whole building down.”

“Thanks I guess.” You weren’t too sure but you’d keep it mind.

Val left you all alone and you could breathe. “I think I’m gonna go to bed.”

“That’s fine kid, let us know if you need anything.” Bucky patted your shoulder.

“I will.” You had Bob following you close behind. When you crashed hard on the bed, Void was holding your hand.

He could feel the pain underneath as the darkness enveloped you. “…I’m sorry.”

In the darkness, your flame flickered on like a singular matchstick. “Why are you sorry?”

“I would’ve gotten to you sooner.” He whispered.

“But you both saved me.” You ran your fingers through his black hair. “That’s all I asked for.”

“But you’re in pain.”

“I will be in pain for a time, it’s a part of healing. I just need you to be there to catch me when I’m in the thick of it.”

“For you, always.” He kissed you gently.

It really was a long road ahead. In the training room, you were working hard to get your strength up. You never wanted to be caught off guard ever again.

His voice echoed in your mind when things were too quiet. You were beating up a punching bag so hard that your powers were leaking out.

Don’t turn me into a monster.

You’re already are one.

You screamed and unleashed psychic repulsed that wrecked the training room and caused a blackout. You sat in the middle of the destruction, crying.

“Kid?!” Bucky was able to break down the door.

“Stay away…” You doubled over in more tears.

He didn’t listen to you and he came over to help you. “Talk to me.”

“I-I’m a monster…my true purpose was to be a weapon.” You looked at him and his heart broke to see that you were in so much pain.

“I know how you feel…” He held your face gently. “Trust me I do.”

“He touched my memories with that machine…the electric shocks…” You clinged to him.

“I know.” He held you close. “He was going to turn you into me.”

“A winter soldier?” You felt him nod.

“That’s what happened to me, the constant wiping of my head, the headaches. I know you can probably still feel it when you’re not paying attention.”

“What if he succeeded.” You wondered.

“He didn’t kid. You’re still here, you’re still our girl that holds this team together.” He said gently. “You’re our sunshine.”

“Bucky…” you started crying again. You cried until you had nothing left to give.

Bucky still held onto you, showing you that you were never alone. “I got you sweetheart.”

Chapter Text

You attended therapy sessions at the behest of Val because the repairs to the training room were expensive and fixing the electrical panels all over the building.

The team treaded lightly around you but Bucky told not to do that as you were already feeling like a fish out of water.

Yelena and Ava treated you to more girls night outs, essentially pamper you on Val’s dime. Alexei was extra careful and often watched inspirational films with you during down times.

You’d often spend time in the kitchen with John just cooking and having deep talks, it sounded one sided but that’s because you spoke into his mind while he spoke out loud.

It was your secret code to keep his secrets safe. He even opened up to you about losing his best friend Lemar. You sympathized with him even if his actions cost him the Captain America title.

“You work better as U.S. Agent in my opinion.” You were chopping up the vegetables for the omelette.

He was whisking the eggs. “I’m glad someone does.” He had you add the vegetables into the mix. “You want ham and cheese?”

You nodded.

“Good job on keeping up your protein intake.” He added the chopped ham and cheese to the mix.

You gave him a thumbs up.

“So how’s it going with you and Bobby?” He poured it into the pan.

“He’s been really patient with me, always tending to my every need but I feel like I haven’t been the most active girlfriend.” You sighed.

“Bobby’s not a depraved guy that’s gonna demand you to be yourself after everything. Besides you’re making breakfast for him.” He noted.

“Thanks for always listening John…it really helps a lot.” You smiled at him.

“You know I’m always here for you Arizona.” He folded the omelette onto a serving plate, letting you finish it off.

You had your good days and bad days. On bad days, sleep was hard to come by. You decided to float around the living room while listening to music to silent your brain.

You shut your eyes for a second as you were lost in the music when you felt hands around your waist. Bob had been a saint throughout this time. He was always so happy to be of service to you and making sure you were ok.

“I didn’t mean to scare you.” He held onto you as you both floated back down.

“It’s ok…did I wake you?” You paused the music.

“No…I was just wondering if you were going to come to bed.” He pressed his forehead against yours.

“I will.” You gave him a gentle kiss. “I love you.”

He kissed you back. “I love you too.”

You let him lead you back to your shared bedroom, the door shutting behind you. You let him dress you in your comfy pj’s which consisted just a tank top.

Bob gave you small kisses here and there to help you see he was there for you. You’d gotten close to Bucky since everything happened. Bob wasn’t jealous but he felt like he was useless.

“You’re not useless Bobby.” You laid down with him.

“I’m sorry my thoughts are loud.” He pulled the blanket over you two.

“I promise you’re not useless…you’re everything to me.” You stroked his cheek.

“You’re my everything…you’re the sunshine in my life.” He whispered softly.

Slowly, you fell asleep. It wasn’t until you started having a nightmare again. It started out the same where Michael would come into the tower and hurt you all over again, making you kill your entire family.

“You’ll always be a monster…” his voice echoed in your head.

You were crying in your sleep and Void heard you. He came out to protect you from the monster terrorizing you.

Void took shape in your mind and blotted out Michael. “He can’t hurt you anymore.”

You looked at him with tearful eyes. “Bobby…” You grabbed onto him tightly like a buoy in a storm.

Void didn’t have the heart to correct you, he silenced your thoughts and absorbed the pain for as long as he could without draining you completely. When the sun came up, you woke up to his dark face.

“You saved me.” You said in a tired tone.

“I heard your cries…I had to do something.” Void’s white eyes looked into yours. “How do you feel now my love?”

“Drained but my head isn’t loud anymore.” You snuggled into him.

“Good.” He held onto until Bob came back.

Your days were improving, less psychic outbursts in your sleep, you were training better, you were becoming more active in the tower. You were even going small missions since the community was wondering where you were.

It was another press event and you were back in a new suit for the occasion. You were happily taking pictures with the kids in attendance.

A little girl came for a picture. “Hi!”

“Hi! What’s your name?” You got to her level.

“Sadie! You helped me find my mommy on the pier.” She smiled brightly.

“Oh hi Sadie!” You gave her a hug. “How are you doing?”

“I’m good.” She was so excited to see you again. “You’re my favorite avenger!”

“That’s so sweet of you.” You had her pose with you for the picture. “Say cheese!”

“Cheese!” She smiled even bigger than before. “Look daddy! She’s my favorite superhero.” Sadie brought her dad over.

“Your daughter is so sweet.” You put in a brave face.

“She never stops talking about how you reunited her with my wife at Coney Island. Thank you for all that you do.” He gave you a genuine smile as he picked up Sadie.

“Thank you for that.” You smiled.

“Bye Phoenix!” She waved to you.

“Bye Sadie.” You blew her a kiss and made a heart with your hands.

The press event was over and Mel was praising you for getting back out there. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m good actually.” You had changed out of your costume and into your regular clothes. “I’m gonna take a walk.”

“You sure?” She took your bag from you.

“Yeah I’m sure.” You nodded. “I’ll be in Central Park.”

“Ok.” She let you be and you were off.

The sounds of the city were nice, all walks of life carrying on while you were just a passerby.

“Sunny?” A familiar voice broke through the crowd.

You turned around and saw Scott. “Scott?”

“Hey you…” he came up to you. “H-How are you?”

“You’re the second person to ask me that.” You shrugged. “But I know you’re here to more than just catch up.”

“Yeah.” He cleared his throat. “You want to talk over coffee or tea?”

You nodded. “I know a nice place nearby.”

“Lead the way kiddo.” He stayed by your side. “We got a lot to talk about.”

“Yeah we do.” You looked at him. “You can start by telling me about my mom.” You were ready to talk about Jean again.

Chapter Text

You ordered a hot chocolate for yourself while Scott ordered a coffee. “So uh…how did you meet my mom?”

“Well we were teenagers when I first came to the school and when I first laid eyes on her, I thought she was the most beautiful girl in the universe. She didn’t like me at first because I was a bit of a dick. I was angry that I shot lasers out of my eyes.” He gave you his full attention.

“So if you take off your glasses, they just come right out?” You sipped your hot chocolate.

“Yeah, if I were to do it now, it’d cut through the whole cafe and slice everyone behind you.” He was blunt about it.

“Oh shit.” You let out a nervous chuckle.

“I’d just shut my eyes though.” He sipped his coffee.

“Did you love my mom a lot?”

“More than the whole world…I had a ring and everything but it was never the right time to propose.” He sighed. “Missions and protecting our kind took precedence.”

“Did you know mom was pregnant?” You swirled your cup around.

“I didn’t…I found out too late when I found her again at the lake.” He took another long sip.

“I feel like I know her through all the memories I’ve seen through the eyes of so many that knew her.” You looked at your reflection in your drink.

“I know you’re not Jean but you carry a piece of her heart in you.” He lifted your head up to meet his eyes.

Your eyes watered. “I was worried you’d only want to get to know me because I remind you of her.”

“You’re your own person, Sunny.” He wiped your tears away, he could see how much you’ve been hurting. “I understand you’ve been hurt…maybe in time you can trust me. I can help you like a dad would.”

“I want that so badly don’t get me wrong. I have a paternal figure in my life and that’s Bucky. He helped me during the early stages of all this.” You felt your phone buzzing so you answered.

“Hi baby.” You smiled a bit.

“Are you ok? You didn’t come home at the time you told me.” Bob was worried sick.

“I’m at the coffee shop with Scott, we’re having a really good conversation about my mom.” You smiled at him.

“Oh! That’s great! Did you want to invite him over for dinner? It’s just us since the team left on a mission earlier.” He offered.

“I can ask him.” You put your phone on your shoulder. “Bob is wondering if you’d like to come over for dinner.”

“I’d love to.” Scott was happy with this development.

“Yeah he’s coming.” You could hear Bob smile.

“Great! I’ll pull out an extra plate. I’ll see you at home?” He smiled a little.

“You will. I love you, Bobby.” You blushed.

“I love you more.” He hung up the phone and got to cooking.

You put your phone back on the table. “He’s been anxious since I was kidnapped. He gets worried that I won’t come home again.”

“Understandably.” He finished his coffee. “So when’s the wedding?”

“I haven’t decided it yet, although grandma Elaine has been sending me pictures of potential wedding venues.” You decided to show him.

“You’re close with Jean’s parents?”

“I am, they actually figured out my existence when they saw me on a cereal box.” You nodded. “First time meeting them was a wary experience since I was under the impression that they wanted to know because I’m their daughter’s daughter.”

“But they love you very much right?” He was relieved you had a good relationship with them.

“They do and I go to their house every so often for dinner. Bob likes them too and they treat him like part of the family.” You smiled.

“I’m glad you have them.” He smiled back. “Ready to go?”

“Yeah I am.” You got up with him. “You want to walk? Or take the express?”

For a moment felt like Jean was there and he chuckled. “The express.” He took your hand and walked with you outside, feeling the ground beneath him disappear.

You flew him safely to the tower and he listened while you talked about all the amenities you had access to. You were really living a comfortable life after an unconventional upbringing.

When you landed on the helipad, Bob came out to greet you. “I’m happy you’re home.” He gave you a quick kiss.

“Me too.” You kissed him back.

“Nice to see you again, Scott.” He shook his hand.

“Likewise, Bob.” Scott shook his hand firmly.

“Dinner’s still cooking so it’ll be a second.” He walked inside with you.

Scott noted the high ceilings and such. It was homey but still very much corporate. “So everyone on the team lives here?”

“Yep!” You went to sit down on the couch. “Me and Bob have our own space but soon we’ll get our own floor when we’re married.”

“That’s nice sweetheart.” He smiled a bit. “Have you picked out the guest list?”

“I was gonna keep it small, obviously invite the family and then have a nice dinner afterwards before we go to Florida to enjoy grandma and grandpa’s beach house.” You saw him sit next to you.

“You want a garden wedding?” He remembered the venues you showed him.

“Yes! I know I was keen on a beach wedding but I just fell in love with the garden setting.” You could picture it in your mind.

Bob was plating everything and he just listened to you talk to Scott, it warmed his heart to see you so lively again. Especially with someone who is likely your birth dad.

All three of you ate at the table and you listened to Scott tell a funny story about him and Jean. While you listened, you thought of something that could bring you both closure.

Your baby blanket that you made Bob put away because it was way too charged with emotional energy. Maybe that was another door to walk in together with him.

“You ok?” Bob noticed you got quiet.

“Just thinking about the baby blanket.” You put your fork down.

“What blanket?” Scott cleaned his mouth.

“Oh it’s the only thing I was found with when I crashed onto earth.” You stood up. “I’ll bring it out.”

“Are you sure?” Scott stopped you a moment.

“I know there’s something in it that has a piece of mom’s memory in it. I want to share that with you.” You looked into his eyes.

He paused and thought about it, he wasn’t going to say no. “Yes.” He kissed your forehead gently.

You felt warmed from head to toe as you walked to the room. Firstly, you put your gloves on before handling the blanket. It felt like lead block as you walked back to Scott.

“Let’s sit on the couch.” Scott was sure you’d needed somewhere soft to land.

“I’ll be out here just in case.” Bob followed you.

“I know you’ll always be there to catch me.” You gave him a kiss.

“Always.” He looked into your eyes, happy to see the light in them again.

Chapter Text

You were now sat down on the couch with Scott who was holding your hand to ride out the psychic wave with you.

“You ready?” Scott asked.

“I am.” You took your glove off and touched the blanket, sending you both into the memory.

Jean was laboring hard on a piece of space rock, her cosmic energy was radiating outward like the Northern Lights on earth.

She screamed as you came out and she caught you. “My baby!” She used her telekinesis to clear your airways allowing you to cry.

She cried out of happiness that you were ok. A part of her knew she didn’t have long but she held you, her energy swaddling you.

“I don’t have long…but I will always be with you.” She kissed your head as her energy faded and you were sent back to earth.

The impact was cushioned by the cosmic energy surrounding you. From your eyes, you were able to see Grace from the beginning.

“I’m calling you Sunflower.” Grace’s voice echoed in both your minds.

You had tears streaming down your face. A weight had been lifted from your shoulders that you didn’t know you were carrying.

Scott didn’t say anything except he brought you into his arm. “My baby.” He couldn’t help but cry with you. Finally he was able to see Jean for the last time.

Bob stayed but it hurt him to see you hurting again. It was for the best of course.

From that day, Scott became a constant in your life. After every mission, you would call him and catch up. You even brought him to dinner with your grandparents who were so supportive.

Finally your family was whole once more. Now let the good times roll.

Yelena was helping you finish getting ready for your wedding day. An extravagant affair planned by you and Bob. “All done with the shimmer.”

“Thank you Lena.” You smiled and took a deep breath. “I can’t believe I’m getting married today.”

Ava was adjusting your veil. “All set lovey, ready to get hitched to dear Bob?”

“Yes I am.” You smiled brightly.

“I’ll go tell your dad that you’re ready.” Yelena left the room with Ava.

You took a moment to look at yourself in the mirror. “I wish you were here mom.” You took another deep breath.

Bob was shaking a bit while John adjusted his boutonnière. “C’mon Bobby stop shaking. It’s your big day!”

“What if she changes her mind?” Bob was just riddled with anxiety.

“Arizona’s not changing her mind about this, kid. You two fought for this day remember?” John gently reminded him.

“You’re right! You’re right…” Bob had to remember that. “Is it almost time to walk?”

“Guests are already in their seats.” Bucky walked in as he adjusted his cufflinks. “Mel is wondering where the groom is.”

“He’s almost there, just got the jitters is all.” John brushed Bob’s shoulders.

“Your biggest mission is to make her happy.” Bucky came up to him.

“She’s the best thing to ever happen to me.” Bob smiled a little and followed everyone out.

You heard the music starting from your safe zone and you held onto Scott’s arm. “It’s happening…”

“Yes it is sweetheart.” Scott kissed your head.

The groomsmen entered with your bridesmaids before the doors shut one more time for your big reveal.

Everyone was up on their feet when your music started playing. Bob looked to the end of the aisle and he was blown away by how angelic you looked.

You walked carefully to him with Scott guiding you through all the watchful eyes. Your audience held the people that cared most about you and Bob. Even the jeweler who gave you your engagement rings was in attendance.

Scott handed you over to Bob and went to sit with your grandparents.

“Hi handsome.” You took Bob’s hand into yours.

“Hi beautiful.” Bob felt his world was filled with happiness.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the company of friends and loved ones to see these two souls together in holy matrimony.” The officiant read the script. “Now if there’s anyone here today who has any doubts about these two souls, speak now or forever hold your peace.”

Bob looked at the audience and saw Alexei was about to say something so he simply let his eyes speak for himself.

Alexei just put his hands up in surrender before you calmed him down.

The officiant kept going until it was time to say your vows. “I will let the bride go first.”

“To my dearest Bob: I know our beginnings were rough but we’ve grown to love one another and you love me for me. And I love you for you. To the world I’m known as an Avenger or Phoenix, to my dad I’m known as his baby, but to you, I’m yours.” You blushed.

“Wow…” Bob was blushing hard also. “I love you so much Sunny, I can’t wait to make you happy forever and always.” He pressed his forehead against yours.

When you slipped on his ring after he put yours on, Bobby was finally able to kiss his bride. He gave you a darling kiss in front of your family. Everyone stood up to clap and give cheer to Mr. And Mrs. Reynolds.

You and Bob were whisked away to take pictures in the gardens. Many of them were romantic and one of them would be plastered on the front page news.

Bob couldn’t stop kissing you. “God I love you so much.”

“Baby you’re gonna kiss my makeup off.” You giggled against his lips.

“So?” He kissed you one more time.

“We have two weeks of a honeymoon to look forward to.” You fluttered your eyes at him.

“Two weeks? Like no missions or debriefings? Two weeks of just you and me?” He loved the sound of that.

“Just you and me handsome.” You stroked his cheek.

“Can we go now?” He looked into your sweet eyes.

“We gotta cut the cake first honey. Then have our first dance and I have to dance with my dad.” You reminded him.

“Ok fine.” He eventually made it back with you for the reception and your guests were eager to see you dance as husband and wife.

A gentle song was playing for your first dance and Bob just concentrated on you. He admired how beautiful you looked and how much you overcame just be here.

At the right moment, Scott cut in to dance with you while your grandma danced with Bob since his mom wasn’t in the picture.

“You did great today sweetheart.” Scott kissed your head.

“Thanks dad.” You felt all eyes on you, especially Logan’s. “I just wanted to thank you for being here for me, for us.”

“I’ll always be there for you. Always.” He promised you.

After dinner and the cake was cut, fireworks were set off to end the blissful night. Two weeks on a private island paradise. You’d be borrowing a quinjet that was found somewhere in an old storage facility that was put together as a wedding present to you and Bob.

Bucky was going over the flight checks with you. “I already pre programmed the navigation system for you but if you ever need anything just call.”

“Thanks for everything Bucky.” You were excited about this.

“And we’ll be working on your residential floor in the meantime.” He gave you a hug.

“Please tell Alexei to stick to the color swatches I chose.” You reminded him.

“Of course kid I got you.” He saw Bob coming up with the bags. “Have fun you two!”

“Thanks Bucky.” Bob put your bags to the side. “You ready?”

“Yes I am.” You strapped in and got ready for takeoff. “We have the whole sky in front of us. We have the rest of our lives together.”

“Yeah we do.” He looked at you. “I hope you didn’t pack any clothes you don’t mind getting torn up, Mrs. Reynolds.”

“I only packed the necessities, Mr. Reynolds.” You teased before taking to the air, letting the navigator take over.