Predictably, that kiss was full of emotions.

Ever since Steve's accident they had no more intimate contact, not even a peck on the lips. Under Steve's conditions, it wasn't appropriate and several times, Natasha felt like kissing him when she spent the night watching him sleep in the F-wing's isolation chambers, but she knew it wasn't wise.

In addition to the mix of the longing for be at each other arms, there was still a level of appreciation from Steve, for the care and love that Natasha had gave to him every day that he was hospitalized and sick in F Wing, and also for her persistence in bringing him back home when it was extremely risky and nobody wanted to do that.

No one else fought so hard for him, no one risked everything for him as much as Natasha did. After all that, he didn't need to hear an "I love you" from her, she tasted the "I love you" in all the attitudes she had with him.

Natasha was the first to take her lips off his lips, but for a very short time, because Steve put his mouth back to hers and while Natasha moved her head back to try to slow down the pace of the kiss, he stretched his head toward her and give her repeated pecks on the lips, until he grabbed her lower lip with his teeth and bit it hard, which made Natasha kiss him again.

Steve grabbed Natasha's waist and hugged her completely, he lifted her a little from the floor so it would be easier to keep his mouth on hers.

Steve squeezed her so tightly that Natasha placed her hands on his arms and pushed him to lighten the pressure on her body a little. It didn't help, so she let her body loosen up and then put her legs around Steve's legs and tried to climb higher to get her legs around his waist.

That way it worked, because he moved one of his arms from her waist and lowered it to Natasha's thigh, squeezing and lifting her upward.

Steve twisted his body, bringing Natasha's with him and he took short steps to the bathroom door. Steve threw Natasha's back against the door, brutally, which made their lips be parted.

Natasha looked at Steve and her neck was completely red, the volume of her breasts coming up and down, fast, because she was out of breath.

Natasha looked at Steve's face and closed her eyes. The way he stared at her neckline, it had already make her horny, he didn't have to make much effort to get her ready for him, if he wanted to, she was ready for him, right now.

Steve thought of biting Natasha's nipple, he loves her body so much that just touching, or licking it's not enough for him, but he knows that she doesn't like it, and what he could do then was to put his lips on her breast and suck it hard.

Natasha let out a groan as she felt Steve's hickey in her boob, she gripped his hair tightly and shoved his head back.

N: Stop...

S: I didn't bite.

The two spoke slowly.

Natasha shook her head and needed another few seconds to justify herself.

N: The children... We... We can't.

Steve's just remembered about the kids now. After the kiss, his mind was erased and all he could think about was having Natasha's body.

Steve was still overwhelmed by the desire to have her and he couldn't move, he stood looking at her, hoping that by a miracle the children would disappear from the room and they could continue what they were doing.

Natasha grabbed his face and gave a long kiss, then she shoved Steve's chest, making him move away from her. Just like that, he released Natasha's body and set her down.

N: Sorry.

S: All right...

N: We can do it another day... Some other time.

Natasha nodded and Steve nodded as well.

S: I'm just going to need some time here, you know... To calm down.

N: I understand... I'll stay outside with them.

S: Right.

Steve gave Natasha one more peck on the lips and stepped back.

Natasha straightened her clothes, which were crumpled and a little suspended, then she straightened her hair and left the bathroom.

N: Hey...

J: Mama, can we have a cookie? Sarah wants to.

N: Does she?

Natasha asked suspiciously, she raised her eyebrows, because Sarah can't speak yet, she only emits random sounds.

J: She do, Mama.

Sarah: Ma-ma.

Natasha looked at Sarah and frowned.

N: She... She just said? Did she call me mama?

James looked at Sarah.

J: She's my mama, not yours.

Sarah: Mama.

Natasha was gaping, looking at Sarah.

It was a big, big problem. It was a huge problem for Sarah to call her mother. She must have heard James call her like that so many times, that she ended up repeating it.

Sarah: Mama.

Natasha sighed and her expression of shock gave way to a smile, a small and silly smile.

Okay, that's wrong, because she's not her mother, but it's so heartening to hear Sarah calling her mama, Natasha was bursting with happiness inside, she wanted to knead that round little face of Sarah and fill her with kisses for that, but she can't, she has to fix it.

Natasha crouched on the carpet next to Sarah, she stroked her cheek and smiled.

N: Sarah, honey... I'm not your...

Natasha sighed and she was having difficulty to explain to her, since Sarah is very small. It was only her first word, she doesn't understand the meaning of it and wouldn't understand Natasha's explanation of not being her mother.

Steve left the bathroom and looked at the three of them.

J: Daddy, Sarah called my mama of mama!

James pointed at Sarah, complaining.

Steve raised his eyebrows in surprise.

Natasha turned to look at Steve and shook her head.

N: I'm sorry, Steve. She must have thought that I am her mother, because James calls me Mama all the time, she's just imitating him.

S: All right.

Steve smiled and was amused.

S: She is small to understand and I've been thinking that she will miss having a mother. I think for a child to be without the father, it's difficult, but they can be well. But without a mother... How can a child live without a mother? I think about it all the time, actually.

N: Steve, you don't have to worry, because you're a wonderful father. And Sarah... She'll have me around, Laura, Pepper and Hill... A lot of women around to have a female figure in her life.

Steve approached them and sat down on the carpet with them.

James quickly got up and sat on his father's lap.

Steve looked at Natasha.

S: I know, but I'm afraid she'll be too masculine, having only me.

N: God, Steve. No, she won't be masculine, unless it's her way, and it has nothing to do with having a mother or not.

S: Do you really think that?

N: Of course.

Natasha put her hand on Steve's leg and smiled.

N: Well, I think we have to go, it's late. Let's go, James?

J: No. I want to stay here with daddy.

N: We have to go, James. You have class tomorrow morning.

S: I thought you were staying with us.

Natasha looked at Steve in surprise.

S: Because... Because of Sarah.

Natasha didn't seem to understand.

S: She's used to you and... There's my trembling problem... If she wakes up in the middle of the night. I'm afraid to let her fall.

N: Oh yes. It's true.

S: If you don't want to stay, at least you should take her with you. If you don't mind, you must be tired of being with her.

N: No. I love taking care of her.

Natasha smiled and looked at James.

N: It looks like we're going to sleep with dad today.

J: Yes! Yayyy!

James celebrated.

J: Come, Sarah.

James got up and took Sarah's hands to help her to her feet.

N: Where are you going?

J: Sleep.

N: Oh.

Natasha and Steve laughed at James, helping Sarah walk, holding her hands.

S: I'm going to put her inside the crib for you, okay, buddy?

J: Okay. And me too.

S: You too, champ.

Steve got up and felt his leg hook and tremble. Natasha looked at him and was worried.

James also stared at his father, not understanding what was going on.

N: I do it, Steve. Sit down.

Natasha pushed Steve back to the floor, he sat up and looked down. He was disappointed in himself for not being able to do simple things, to be dependent on being able to take care of his own children. This situation was frustrating.

Natasha got up and went to the children.

N: Ladies first.

Natasha took Sarah and tickled her to make her laugh, then Natasha picked up James and placed him next to Sarah.

J: And me, Mommy?

Natasha looked at James and smiled, she tickled him too and kissed his forehead.

N: Are you really going to sleep?

J: Yeah, she doesn't know how to play anything!

N: But the other day, you were joking playing of imitating each other.

J: True. But she could play something that is funny, like superheroes.

N: She'll know someday. She will grow even more.

James sighed.

J: Then she can be nice.

N: Yes.

Natasha smiled.

N: Sleep well. I love you.

J: I love you, mama.

Natasha looked at the two of them and then sat down next to Steve.

N: Remember that this situation is temporary, Steve.

S: They don't know that.

N: They are doctors and scientists, if they are optimistic, you should be too.

S: I know. I am trying.

N: I know you are and I know it's difficult.

Steve looked at James and Sarah in the crib. James was trying to make her play something and he was getting angry because she doesn't do what he wants.

S: Do they fight a lot?

N: No. I mean, she loves him. He... He likes her, when no one's watching. He doesn't have much patience with her and jealousy makes him get a bit aggressive at times.

S: Has he hit her yet?

N: No, he pushed her once and she cried so much that he got scared and he never did it again. He doesn't like it when she cries, he always comes to calm her.

S: That's cool. I like it. I want them to be good friends.

N: I think they will be.

Natasha and Steve spent hours talking on the carpet. The children slept without even noticing.

N: We should sleep too.

Natasha said as she got up, she tried to help Steve get up, but he turned down the help, already feeling better.

S: Ladies first.

Steve pointed to his bed.

Natasha looked at Steve.

N: I don't think that's a good idea.

S: I think it's a great idea.

N: Steve...

S: Come on. Lay down.

N: Are you going to behave? The children are here.

S: Don't worry about me, worry about you.

N: Are you calling me a pervert?

S: We both know you are.

Steve teased and Natasha pretended to be offended, she took a pillow and hit Steve with it.

Steve laughed, grabbed the pillow and pulled it to bring Natasha's body into his.

Steve kissed her lips.

S: Just sleep.

N: Just sleep.

Natasha smiled and Steve gave another kiss on her lips, but as she agreed, he spun her around and pushed her toward the bed.

S: Go.

N: Right, Soldier.

Natasha climbed onto the bed and crawled into the corner to give Steve space. Steve lay down next to her, belly up and stretched his arm to the side, inviting Natasha to lay her head on his chest.

Of course Natasha accepted the offer, she laid her head on Steve's chest and laid her hand on his chest as well, to feel his heartbeat.

S: Is that good for you? Need a blanket?

N: I have everything I need here.

Natasha said as she yawned and closed her eyes.

Steve hugged her and stroked her back.

N: Are you going to sleep?

S: I don't know.

N: Are you still having this insomnia? You could have taken the pills, Steve.

S: I feel like I've been taking poison.

N: But you need to sleep.

S: I will improve. Is not that what you keep telling me?

Natasha just sighed.

S: I have to confess something.

Natasha opened her eyes to hear Steve.

S: I always imagined what it would be like to have such a moment with you. Way before the Civil War, right back when we found Bucky. If you would allow me to hold you like this. What would be the texture of your skin, what would be the weight of your body on mine.

N: Are you talking about sex?

Natasha smirked. Steve was a little embarrassed.

S: No... I don't know how to explain. I just...

N: You thought about how it would be to be with me.

S: Yes.

Natasha lifted her head to look into Steve's eyes, her chin resting against his chest.

N: I hope I haven't disappointed you.

Steve smiled.

S: You have only surpassed expectations, as in everything you do.

Natasha rolled her eyes.

N: Now you're just being a silly man.

S: You know it's true.

N: Only you see me like this.

S: You're mistaken. I think most people see you that way. If not, I need to talk to them and show the truth about Natasha Romanoff.

N: Oh. Truth about me? That does not sound good.

S: Not really, not talking like that. But you should let everyone see the real Romanoff.

N: How do you know this is the real me?

Natasha slid her body a little higher, and gave Steve a peck on the lips.

Steve looked at her closely, after the kiss, smiled sweetly at her and stroked her hair.

S: Go to sleep, or you'll be like me.

N: I can keep you company.

S: No. It's my turn to watch over your sleep.

N: Did you know I was watching you there in F Wing?

S: Yes. I remember every moment.

N: Don't feel special, I would do that for everyone.

S: Right.

Steve smiled and Natasha smiled back, she laid her head back on his chest and after a few minutes, she fell asleep.

...

Early the next morning, Bucky was all up and feeling excited to keep working in the central square with the setting of the Christmas' party.

Bucky finished brushing his teeth and looked at himself in the mirror, he ran the comb through his still wet hair and went to the dorm's door to go out.

Bucky opened the door and he was surprised to see Maria Hill, standing in front of his room.

Bucky frowned.

B: Hm... Good morning?

Hill was leaning against the wall of the corridor with her arms folded.

H: Are you busy?

B: No, I mean, yes, I'm going to have breakfast and...

Bucky interrupted the speech because Hill walked toward him and simply walked inside his dorm and Bucky stood in the doorway, looking at her.

B: ...I have to work on the scenario...

Bucky glanced at Hill's hands, which were now sliding down the zipper of her overalls.

B: I ...

Bucky swallowed hard and shook his head.

B: Juliana is waiting for me ...

H: Is she?

Hill asked as he lowered his sleeve down.

H: So you should go, right?

Bucky was paying attention to Maria Hill's body, he nodded in agreement with Hill, but he was already walking back into the room and just kicked the door with his foot for her to close.

...

An hour later, in the refectory, when Steve and Natasha arrived to have breakfast with the children, they noticed that Laura was very upset.

Laura was at the table, along with Jane and Pepper. Jane seemed to be feeling bad to be around Laura, because her husband is missing just when Clint's body went missing too.

Pepper seemed to be an intermediary between them.

Steve and Natasha approached the table.

S: Good morning.

Pepper: Good morning, Steve. Good morning, James, good morning baby Sarah. Come here with Aunt Pepper.

Pepper reached out to get Sarah and Steve let her go to Pepper's lap.

Steve and Natasha sat on opposite sides of the table. Natasha looked at Laura, who was still shaken with the death and disappearance of Clint Barton. It's been months and she's not recovering from that.

Natasha felt bad for being fine now, the last few days beside Steve made her feel good and happy, but she shouldn't be, because she lost a part of her. It's a betrayal she is not still in mourning like Laura is.

N: Laura?

Laura looked at Natasha, then at Jane, who lowered her head. Steve noted the behavior of all of them.

S: Is everything okay here?

Laura looked down at the table and a silence followed for a long time, until Laura decided to speak.

L: How can you not require her to tell you where Clint is?

Steve and Natasha looked at Laura.

L: He... I mean Thor, he is missing! Obviously he has something to do with the disappearance of my husband's body.

S: It's not just Thor that disappeared.

L: Exactly! The three of them must have planned it! And she...

Laura pointed at Jane.

L: She has to know, it's her husband! Why aren't you asking?

S: Laura, we did. We asked everyone.

Jane: I already said that I don't know where he is.

L: Stop lying! There are only a few days left until Christmas, don't you feel bad for your daughter to be without her father? Don't you feel for my children who didn't bury their father?

Jane: Laura, I understand your pain, I would never hide something like that from you, you must believe me. I'm worried about Thor too.

N: She's telling the truth, Laura. She doesn't know.

L: Someone has to do something to find him!

S: We will! I promised and I will fulfill that.

Laura expected to hear a speech of conformism, but she was relieved to hear that Steve has not given up yet.

L: Thank you.

Steve nodded.

Laura looked at Jane.

L: I'm sorry, Jane.

Jane: It's all right.

L: I'm going to the nursery, we're preparing a Christmas presentation with the kids.

S: That's a very good idea.

L: Sarah will be our baby Jesus of our living nativity scene.

N: Will she?

Natasha thought it was weird that kind of stuff, and felt weirder for asking.

L: If you don't mind.

S: Not me, I'm happy with that.

L: Thank you. I'll wait for the kids there.

Laura left.

Torunn sat beside her mom and looked at Steve.

T: I'll be Maria.

Steve raised his eyebrows and smiled.

S: That's great.

Torunn pointed at James.

T: He will be Joseph, my husband!

James laid his forehead on the table.

N: Are you getting married, James?

J: No.

James grunted without lifting his head from the table.

T: Yes, he's going to marry me!

J: I don't want to.

T: Yes, you do.

Torunn spoke more firmly and frowned. James just grunted something, feeling defeated.

...

As they finished breakfast, Juliana approached Steve's table.

Ju: Good morning.

S: Good morning, Juliana.

Ju: Did you see Bucky?

Steve looked at Natasha, waiting for her to respond. Natasha shook her head and shrugged.

N: Not today.

S: Me neither. Is there anything we can help?

Ju: Oh no, nothing, really. It's just that he told me to meet him here...

Juliana frowned.

Ju: I mean, I was going to help him with the Christmas decoration today, but... He must have forgot.

S: Well, he's not here. Maybe he came early and he's already there in Central Square.

Ju: Oh, that's true! I was being stupid.

Juliana smiled.

Ju: I'm going there, then. Do you want me to drop the kids off at day care for you?

N: Would you do that?

Ju: Of course.

N: James, go with Juliana.

Natasha helped James moved off the bench. Juliana took Sarah in her arms and retired with them.

Natasha and Steve looked at each other and Natasha rested her elbow on the table and her chin in her hand.

N: Looks like we'll have all the morning without the kids.

S: Yes.

Natasha frowned, because Steve didn't understand the hint.

N: Both of us will have time to solve that matter.

S: That matter?

Pepper, who was still at the table, contained her laugh.

Natasha kicked Steve's foot, which made him loosen the bread he was about to bite.

Steve looked shocked at Natasha, but at last he understood what she meant, since she was pointing the corridor with her head.

S: Oh! Yes. Yes. That matter. We must go, immediately.

Steve got up from his chair and was already red, after he understood what Natasha meant.

S: We need to go. Excuse us, Pepper.

P: Right.

Pepper smiled.

Natasha got up too and left the refectory, along with Steve.

S: My room or your room?

N: Yours. It's bigger.

The two continued to walk down the corridor and crossed with Peter Parker on the way.

PP: Captain!

S: Mr. Parker. Good Morning.

Steve said, still walking beside Natasha. Peter had to walk back into the hallway, to keep up with them and began to walk side by side with Steve and Natasha.

PP: Did you see Mr. Stark?

N: No, we didn't see your father.

PP: He's not my...

S: Mr. Parker, what do you need?

Steve stopped walking, seeing that he wasn't going to get rid of Peter Parker so easily.

PP: Mr. Stark said he had a task for you and me to do this morning. But I don't find him anywhere, so I thought you would know what task is.

S: Well, I don't know.

PP: But should we then look for him, together? Are you busy now?

Steve looked quickly at Natasha, then at Peter again.

S: I am and if you find Tony, tell him I'll be busy all morning.

PP: What are you going to do, is it urgent?

S: Yes.

PP: Can I help you? Maybe it would go faster.

Natasha and Steve looked at each other again.

N: No need, I'll help the Captain. You can go now.

PP: Oh okay then, people. I'll tell Mr. Stark.

Peter Parker walked away in the opposite direction where Steve and Natasha were going.

A few more minutes and they were able to get into Steve's room.

In the minute that they got inside the room, Steve closed the door, and Natasha immediately started to get undressed. She removed the leather jumpsuit she was wearing, and as she turned to look at Steve, he'd only removed the top of his uniform. Steve had lost a good time, just admiring Natasha undressing herself.

Steve moved his leg to walk toward Natasha, but she took a step back and gestured for him to stop.

N: Finish what you started.

S: What do you mean?

N: Your clothes.

Steve was a little annoyed, but began to unbutton his pants, he really wanted run to her, and possess her anyway, he is in a hurry, very hurry.

When Steve was totally naked, he walked towards Natasha, he stopped with his body close to hers and looked at her from above, since he is much taller than her. Natasha looked into his eyes and let her body touch Steve's.

Steve lowered his head a little to kiss Natasha, and she lifted her face to reach his lips. Steve's mouth could only brush against Natasha's lips for a few seconds, as she placed her hands on Steve's chest and shoved him hard, causing him to fall suddenly on the bed.

Looks like someone else is in a hurry too.

Natasha rested her hands on the bed, then leaned her knee beside Steve's leg. Natasha looked at him as if he were her prey, there wasn't a trace of pity in the pair of that piercing green eyes.

Steve already knew that it would be pointless for him to try anything now, she wants to dominate him, he has no choice but to allow.

Natasha began to crawl slowly over the bed, and as she approached Steve's face, Steve looked down at the very beautiful and attractive volumes of Natasha's breasts, which swayed as she moved, sneaking over his body.

Natasha paused for a minute and brought her hand to her mouth, she slid her palm down her tongue slowly.

Steve had no idea what she was doing, but he found the scene extremely provocative, but soon he understood why. Natasha placed that same hand on his cock, she gripped it firmly and slid her hand on Steve's cock from the base to the top, wanting to feel all of his texture, she did that repeatedly.

Steve was overwhelmed by the scene, he stopped breathing. Natasha opened her mouth at the same time as Steve did, just imitating the look of pleasure on his face. He seemed to be in heaven now, he couldn't take his eyes off her, he couldn't speak, but his eyes didn't deny the pleasure he was feeling with the intense caress that Natasha was giving him.

Natasha continued to massage Steve's cock, and as she felt his cock completely rigid, she lifted her body a little and sat on Steve's cock.

Steve threw back his head and grunted, then he grabbed Natasha's waist and moved her body up and down.

Natasha tossed her hair back as she felt Steve's cock come in and out of her opening, she began to let out some moans, one after the other, until she felt Steve's cock completely immersed in her.

Steve placed his hands on Natasha's thighs and lifted his head to look at her and at her body. He memorized that scene. Her red curly hair, tossed all the way to the side where her head was tilted, her lips contracted trying to control her moans, her nostrils slightly dilated by the need for more air to breathe... That red neck, perfect breasts, that belly with the scars of past battles that only make her more desirable... Those thighs of her that restrained his body, that position and all that femininity that exalts from her... Everything deserved to be registered, it could spend a month, two Years or ten that he would still remember perfectly of how to draw her that way.

Natasha still stood over Steve, not moving for a long time. She just wanted to feel him inside her and he wanted to feel her, so he didn't rush her, he did not interfere.

Natasha looked at Steve, and it was as if she were saying that she would start now and Steve just nodded, already predicting what she meant by that look.

Natasha rested her hands on Steve's chest and used it as support to move her body back and forth, causing her opening to devour and loosen Steve's cock, slowly and repeatedly.

As the pleasure increased, Natasha's thigh muscles contracted and made her pause in a few moments to return to her movements. She continued for a long time until she reached her first orgasm, which made her thigh tight against Steve's body and shrink until she felt the heat of the orgasm pass away.

After the first orgasm, Natasha began to accelerate the movements, in the same position, now she was only interested in her pleasure and pleasure for Steve and after Natasha's second orgasm, she was already feeling her body weakening and allowed Steve to do whatever he wanted to do with her, until she was recovered again.

...

Bucky ended up napping after the intense activities with Maria Hill in bed, he woke up from the nap and when he opened his eyes, he blinked a few times until he actually woke up.

Bucky heard the faucet in the bathroom sink shut, and as he looked into the bathroom, he saw Maria Hill walking out of there, fully clothed and practically tidy, her hair in order, and her usual cold stare.

Bucky sat on the bed, looked into her eyes and smiled.

Hill ignored him completely and walked to the door.

B: Hey!

Hill stopped with her hand on the knob, but didn't look back.

B: You came here without saying anything and now you walk away without saying anything too?

H: What is there to be said?

B: I don't know...

H: See?

Hill turned the knob.

B: You could have said good morning and asked how I am.

H: I have no interest in knowing how you are.

Bucky observed Hill, he still tries to understand her personality.

It's true that he was used to Natasha, but Hill can be even colder, she doesn't care about him, she doesn't talk and she does not show any interest in him. Hill came to take pleasure and walk away, as if it were nothing.

Hill opened the door.

B: But I have an interest in knowing how you are.

Hill had already put one foot out, but she stopped when she heard Bucky speak.

B: I'm interested in learning more about you. Meet you.

H: Why?

B: I don't know, but I think we should get to know each other better.

H: You're safer without knowing anything. Believe me.

Hill walked out the door.

B: I can't go on with this, Hill, if you don't let me get close to you.

Hill stopped once more before closing the door.

H: Do as you please.

B: You really do not care.

H: No.

Hill closed the door and, before walking to leave, she sighed. She took a deep breath and shook her head, as if giving a warning to herself for allowing herself to be reached by a speech like this, which she has heard before and thinks super childlike.

Bucky took a shower, he got ready and went to the central square to continue his work and only there he realized that he had scheduled with Juliana to help in the preparation of the Christmas party earlier.

Bucky spotted Juliana, wearing a uniform like the workmen who were acting as stage painters. Bucky also noticed that she changed her hairstyle, it wasn't a big change, she was just in a ponytail, which before she wrapped it in a bun.

Bucky noticed that Juliana was already working, she had a brush in her hand and was receiving instructions from another worker, he didn't know what they were talking about, obviously something about the painting on that table, but it didn't matter, it was important to see that she was smiling sweetly and seemed pleased to be helping.

It was a smile so pure and true that it made Bucky smile without realizing it. Bucky noticed now that she has a discreet furrow on her chin, which only appears when she is smiling for real. Bucky was delighted and he could swear she was the most beautiful person he has ever seen.

And he is thinking that of the girl who seemed to be the most dull of the world for him.

Bucky stood for a few minutes just watching her, which finally caught the attention of Juliana, who as soon as she saw him smiled even more and nodded at Bucky.

Bucky walked over to her.

B: Sorry, I'm late.

Ju: No problem, I came in and Jonas said I could start painting the tables.

B: And how are you doing?

Ju laughed.

Ju: Terrible! Jonas said it was fine, but he was just being kind.

B: Let's take a look.

Bucky looked at the table and he was silent. Juliana was looking at him, eager to know what Bucky was thinking.

B: I guess... it's right, that's fine. But it could look better. Show me how you're doing.

Juliana brushed the brush on the table, covering some more of the wood.

Bucky put his hand over Juliana's and she let the brush fall, for the shock that his touch had caused on her body. She turned her face sharply to look at Bucky, who was right behind her.

B: Sorry. I'm sorry.

Ju: No, I just got scared. I'm... There is no problem.

B: I just want to show you how to paint better. Can I?

Juliana was still looking into Bucky's eyes, she nodded, but didn't move a muscle to get the brush back.

B: The brush.

Ju: What?

B: The brush.

Juliana nodded and picked up the brush, she was blushing as usual. Bucky took her hand again and came back to help her paint the table.

...

Someone was watching them at certain distance, and quite discreetly... That person was Maria Hill. The moment Bucky laid his hand over Juliana's, she averted her gaze and left the place.

...

In Steve's dorm, Natasha's body was half over Steve's. Both were naked, and it isn't about just the nude of clothes, it was the nude of feelings. Both unarmed, both without masks. Just the two of them and that silence that is the refuge of them both.

Steve slid his fingers down the centerline of Natasha's back as she passed her finger around the lines that defined the musculature of Steve's chest.

After almost an hour in this exchange of caresses and silence, they were just trying not to be the one who would break the silence and the moment, but Natasha was thinking about James and that it must be already at lunchtime.

N: James and Sarah need to eat.

Natasha broke the silence, already saying the reason she was interrupting their moment.

Steve looked at her and laid his hand on the top of Natasha's butt.

S: You know the nursery feeds them.

N: But they always have lunch with us.

Natasha lifted her head to look into his eyes.

N: They already stay all day in the school, I like to have lunch with them.

S: You already talk, including Sarah, she seems to be yours.

Natasha looked down and looked back at Steve. She raised an eyebrow.

N: Is that bad?

Steve ran his hand over Natasha's hair, putting it back her ear.

S: No, that's good. That's great.

N: Do you really think that or are you just saying it out of kindness?

S: You already know me enough to know that I'm being honest.

Natasha smiled and lifted her body up to kiss Steve's lips.

Natasha got up from the bed and Steve looked at her in confusion.

S: Where are you going?

N: Take a shower.

Steve sighed, frustrated, he wanted to stay in bed with her. Not every time in the world would be enough for him to feel satisfied with her body.

Natasha stood at the bathroom door and looked at Steve.

N: Are not you coming?

Steve looked at her in surprise.

S: If I go in there, this bath will last for hours.

Natasha inclined her head slightly, smiling and raising her eyebrows, confirming that this was the idea.

S: But you told the children... Lunch...

N: I changed my mind. We can have dinner with them later.

Steve smiled and got up from the bed.

...

Bucky was on a platform, along with some workers, they were putting up an electronic panel, which would act as a giant screen. The idea was that on the big screen it would show images of snow falling with a natural landscape, to leave the bunker with more Christmas feelings.

Juliana was a little more distant, on top of a staircase, placing ornaments made by the children of the bunker, on the Christmas tree.

- Hey, Barnes! Lunch arrived. Are you going to eat here?

Bucky looked at his co-worker and then at Juliana. Juliana nodded.

B: Yes. Save a meal for Juliana too.

Bucky came down from the platform, jumping from it, which made Juliana's eyes widen, afraid he might get hurt, but she smiled to see that he was all right.

Bucky walked over to her.

B: Let's go?

Juliana nodded and handed the basket with the decorative items to another worker who was nearby.

B: Jump.

Ju: Jump? From here? Are you crazy?

B: You saw me jump out of there. I'm fine, you'll be fine.

Ju: Yeah, I'm not an avenger. Just a nurse.

B: Take the risk. Let's go.

Ju: My role is to take care of the wounded, not to become one.

Bucky smiled.

B: If you say so...

Juliana frowned, not understanding why Bucky was coming so close to the stairs.

Ju: Are you going to knock me over? Do not do it. Do not. I'm serious!

Juliana reached out to protect herself and closed her eyes, but was surprised to feel Bucky's hands on her waist.

Bucky lifted her up and Juliana put her hands on his shoulders.

Bucky set her down.

B: Safe and sound.

Juliana smiled and lowered her head.

Ju: Let's eat.

The two of them went to the table and the other workers were there. Bucky looked around.

B: There are no chairs, I'd better take you to the refectory, to make you more comfortable.

Ju: I can sit on the floor like everybody here.

B: It's dirty.

Ju: We're filthy!

Juliana reminded Bucky and she was happy with his zeal to care about her. She never had anyone caring for her that way.

They sat down with the other workers and while she ate, Juliana watched Bucky talk to the his colleagues, she even forgot to chew to admire him.

...

A few days later, Christmas Eve arrived.

Natasha was in her room, finishing dressing up James' costume.

N: James, you have to promise me to behave until the time of the performance. You can't ruin the costume, everybody worked so hard.

J: I will, mama.

N: I'm serious. You say you will behave and then when I see you, you are filthy. Laura, Pepper and the other teachers worked hard to do this presentation with you.

J: Are you going to watch it?

N: Of course I will, James. We all will, your father, your Uncle Bucky too. Everyone will be there.

J: Mama?

N: Hmm?

J: I don't want to go.

N: What are you talking about? You should have said it earlier, you have an important part in the play, James. Why don't you want to go? Are you ashamed?

J: No, but Torunn said she's going to kiss me.

Natasha frowned.

N: And that's too bad?

J: She's a girl!

N: Would you rather it was a boy?

J: No!!!

N: So?

J: I don't want to kiss anyone.

N: I'm sure it's a kiss on the cheek.

J: She said that husband and wife kisses in the mouth, like her parents.

N: Well, you don't have to kiss her if you don't want to. I'm sure Francis Barton would want to kiss her instead.

James frowned. Natasha put the fake beard on James' face, and then the fancy hat.

Natasha looked at James and felt like laughing.

N: You're done and you look good.

Natasha kissed his cheek.

N: Let's get your sister. God knows how she should be with her father getting her ready.

Natasha reached for James and they left the room, heading for Steve's room.

Natasha knocked on the door and then opened it and walked in with James.

N: Ready?

Natasha looked at Steve with Sarah on his lap and Sarah was wearing a white dress and a white crown on her head. She was looking like an angel. Natasha smiled and walked over to Steve.

N: Oh my God, she looks beautiful, Steve.

S: I know. She is beautiful.

Natasha stretched her face toward Steve and he kissed her lips.

S: Come on. We are late.

...

Bucky: So, Sharon. Do you understand what you'll see there tonight?

Sharon nodded.

B: No one will be looking at you, I mean, they will look, because you look beautiful.

Sharon smiled.

B: I loved the idea of dresses for the women of the bunker. We men don't care about clothing, but we know that it affects the woman's vanity.

Sharon: But my hair...

B: It just needs to be brushed. I will help you.

Bucky picked up the brush and brushed Sharon's hair, he picked up a mirror and showed Sharon.

Sharon looked at herself in the mirror and she looked surprised, maybe she just recognized herself now, she touched her hair and smiled.

B: See? That's right, that's how I like it. Smiling.

Sharon: Can we go now?

B: Yes.

Bucky led Sharon to Central Square. Sharon was dazzled by the decoration, the huge Christmas tree with the stage, which had the giant screen that looked like a window in the background, overlooking the outside world.

Sharon: Snow.

B: Yes. And Tony took it seriously, this air conditioning is very strong. Let's sit down.

Bucky took Sharon to a table, he introduced her to his working friends, who welcomed Sharon.

- There's your friend Captain, Barnes.

Sharon and Bucky looked at Steve coming into the square with Sarah in his arms.

Bucky laid a hand on Sharon's shoulder.

Sharon: I know, she's not mine. I'm fine, really.

Bucky nodded.

Sharon turned her attention back to the party decor.

Jane approaches Steve.

Jane: Oh my God, Sarah! What a cute thing! She looks so beautiful!

Torunn: James Rogers!

Torunn came running to James and still dragged Francis with her.

James tried to hide behind Natasha's leg.

T: I see you! Come on, Auntie Laura's calling us.

Torunn grabbed James's hand and led him and Francis into the backstage of the event.

S: I think I have to leave Sarah there too.

Jane: I'll take her there. Come with Aunt Jane, Sarah!

Steve passed Sarah onto Jane's lap.

N: Let's find a place near the stage to sit.

Natasha walked with Steve to the table where Maria Hill was sat with Coulson.

S: Good evening.

Coulson: Captain! Merry Christmas!

S: Can we sit with you?

Coulson: Of course. Please.

Natasha and Steve sat at the table. Natasha was next to Maria Hill.

Natasha looked at Hill.

N: Why aren't you wearing the dress?

H: For what?

N: For the party.

H: I don't see the point in getting ready for this.

Natasha stared at Hill and then where she was looking. Natasha spotted Bucky beside Sharon.

N: Oh ...

H: What?

N: You and Barnes.

H: There's no me and Barnes.

N: Why not?

H: Because there is not. We just like sex with each other. No feelings involved.

N: Hill...

H: Seriously, he doesn't even know what he wants. Poor Juliana, she's in a trap, that little saint. Look at him... Sharon, Juliana, he doesn't know who he wants.

S: Sharon?

Steve was surprised for Hill saying that Bucky has interest on Sharon. Natasha looked at Steve.

Steve looked in the direction where Bucky was and saw Sharon. He hadn't seen her there before. He still visits her once in a while, but he never talked to her again.

Natasha was reading Steve's expression. The way he looked down, briefly, after noticing Bucky near Sharon, made Natasha wonder. Is that jealous? Natasha thought, and her countenance also changed.

The stage lights were on and the sound was on. Everyone stilled and turned their attention to the stage.

N: Fury?

Natasha whispered.

H: He didn't want to come. Later, I'll bring him something to eat.

The Christmas performance began after Laura and Pepper announced the play.

The children entered the stage, each in turn.

Sarah was placed in the manger, but began to cry the moment she saw James beside the other children, she reached out to James and threatened to leave the manger that she was placed.

N: God...

S: Should I get her?

N: Of course not, Steve.

James looked at Sarah and put his finger in his mouth, motioning her to stop crying, which only made her scream even more.

James left his position and looked at the audience, he smiled awkwardly and ran to Sarah.

J: Stop!

Sarah just grunted.

J: Stop right now!

Sarah stopped crying and smiled, she always finds it funny when he fights with her and James started using it as a device to make her stop crying.

James took her hand and looked at Laura.

J: She's okay.

Pepper: He has to go to his place.

L: She's going to cry, so leave it alone. Continue, children...

Laura clapped her hands and the crowd applauded for the play to continue.

As the kids were performing, Hill yawned and stared around to try to hold on to the presentation until the end, and she eventually spotted Juliana arriving at the party.

Hill had to look twice to make sure that that woman was really Juliana, she was very different in that dress and her hair was down. She was a lot better than the other days.

H: Okay, she's here, the circus is armed.

Natasha looked at Juliana and saw her walking to Bucky.

Bucky was talking to Sharon and his colleagues.

Ju: Good evening, I'm late, but...

Bucky turned to stare at Juliana and he couldn't help staring her from her feet to her head, he was puzzled and delighted by her look.

Bucky stood up abruptly.

Ju: May I sit with you? I don't want to be with my aunt.

B: Of course.

Bucky and Juliana stood staring at each other.

To break the silence, Sharon held out a hand to Juliana.

Sharon: Hi, I'm Sharon Carter.

Juliana looked at Sharon and smiled.

Ju: I know. I'm Juliana.

Sharon: Nice to meet you, Juliana. Sit down with us.

Ju: Thank you.

Sharon stepped aside on the bench, allowing Juliana to sit beside Bucky.

Bucky looked at Sharon and she smiled, nodding, encouraging him to pay attention to Juliana, he was obviously dazzled by her.

...

H: It's going to be the three little friends now.

N: Stop. You should be enjoying yourself.

H: Well, I'm not. Actually, I'm going to my room now.

N: No, you won't. My son is performing. You stay for him.

Hill frowned.

H: Your son sucks acting.

Natasha laughed and turned her attention back to the stage.

At the end of the presentation, everyone got up and applauded the children. The children thanked and were released to join their families.

Steve went to get Sarah and brought her to the table with him.

Laura climbed onto the stage with the microphone.

L: Good night and merry Christmas everyone! I just wanted to thank everybody who worked hard for our party today. It's very important for me. I also wanted to thank all of our "school" teachers, and all those who came to attend. As you know, we don't have much to give to our children, but I heard from Tony Stark that we will have a Santa Claus this year too. And I want to know... Who wants to see Santa?

All the kids screamed they wanted to. James climbed onto the chair and raised his arm.

Natasha looked at Steve.

N: Who is the Santa Claus, anyway?

S: I have no idea.

H: It will probably be Stark himself, he still has not showed up here.

N: It's really his thing. He should arrive in an armor, all full of blinkers.

L: Looks like Santa's going to be here after midnight, but for him to come, all the kids should eat all of their meal and...

Laura stopped talking because she saw Santa arriving at the party that moment.

Laura frowned and she was angry because Tony said he would come only after midnight and he is already here, where the children can see him.

L: It looks like there was a change of plans and...

Laura lost her voice again, she looked better at Santa and found out it wasn't Tony.

L: No...

Laura dropped the microphone on the floor and everyone looked at her, confused.

Natasha looked in the direction where Laura was looking.

N: Oh it's Santa Claus! Look, James!

James and the other kids started yelling and ran to Santa.

Santa clapped his hands on the heads of the children who came to him. He picked up one of the children in his lap.

Laura put her hand on her chest and jumped off the stage, she ran to Santa.

Santa put the kid Francis Barton on the floor and then stood up, he looked at Laura and Laura broke down in tears. She hugged him and shivered as she cried.

Francis: Mommy?

Natasha saw Laura's reaction and got up abruptly.

N: It can't be...

Natasha whispered to herself.

No one was understanding anything.

Torunn: Daddy!!!

Torunn saw Thor enter the Square and ran to him.

Steve noticed Wanda and Vision, coming in shortly after Thor.

Everyone understood better what was happening when Laura pulled Santa's beard down and they could see who it was: Clint Barton.

Clint: Merry Christmas, babe.

**SURPRISEEEE!!!**