.28 | Bittersweet Goodbyes

{Please forgive me for how long it has been since updating this story, but I'm BACK BABY! I feel that my writing greatly improved as well since I worked on so many original stories prior to coming back to this one. }

The soft whirring sound from the Quinjet vibrated with a dull hum, creating a soothing backdrop to what was unfolding within. She heard Natasha's voice from the cockpit signaling that they were about to arrive within ten minutes to their destination.

In her majestic tiger form, Merida lay beside Ansem, her lion counterpart and dear friend from the circus. The space around them was cozy, despite the mechanical surroundings and the circuit board of buttons and gadgets that Natasha navigated with precision and ease. 

Merida's feline eyes drifted fondly to the king of the savannah plans next to her. She gazed at the magnificent creature beside her, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth as Ansem's curious eyes met hers. 

In that exchange, a silent understanding passed between them. 

It was a language of friendship that needed no words. The lion's heart resonated with the tiger within Merida, a resonance beyond their physical forms.

With the circus, there was a sense of instability, but with Ansem, she had found a constant sense of familiarity that never wavered. They had been inseparable - a duo of two species that fate had brought together. 

But even she knew that he deserved a place that was far greater than the tower could give to him. Ansem was a wild lion after all, and he belonged with others of his kind, and a chance to be rehabilitated so he could, maybe, one day go home and start a pride of his own. 

She was glad she was a tiger right now. It spared her from the tidal wave of tears that she knew would be falling if she were human. But for now, those tears were felt deep within her tiger heart, a deep ache in her bones that held a bittersweet symphony of love, sadness, and courage.

As the Quinjet continued its journey to Colorado, the outside world was reduced to streaks of scenery passing by in the form of blurring colors and landscapes of earthy brown that blended together with blue bodies of water.

But within that metal cocoon, Ansem and Merida found solace in each other's presence.

Her gaze gracefully shifted to the right, where Steve was nestled in his seat, the very picture of ease. A sense of tranquility washed over his aura as it billowed in shades of yellow, pink, and light blue. She noticed the strong ripples of the muscles of his biceps as they stretched against his dark blue shirt, his hands clasped together relaxed in his lap. 

Caught in the act of stealing a glance, she found herself captured by his warm smile, which tugged at the corners of his eyes and spoke volumes. 

Deep within her, the beast purred with contentment at the comfort he offered her.

After their talk about the energetic bond and the imprint, Merida felt her heart relax, her nerves no longer on edge and that deep pang of guilt no longer hovering around her like a shadow. 

Knowing there was nothing that could have prevented Steve from coming back to get her at the circus the night he met her had made her heart almost literally float away. 

Steve was open to figuring it out together, and his ease and gentleness in letting her know that he was not angry had been all the invitation she needed to relax and not stress so much about the future of the bond and what it meant for them.

The past few days had looked like tip-toeing around stolen glances, lingering looks and Merida desperately trying to hide her face when her cheeks flushed like a cherry blossom tree. 

They had to put their rolled ice cream date on hold because a gang of thieves had hijacked a facility of bio-weapons and Steve was called to duty with the other S.H.I.E.L.D. agents.

Her growing fondness for Steve had only intensified, something that Sam had caught onto rather quickly as he did double-takes between the two of them as if he knew something that they weren't seeing yet. 

She knew very well the butterflies in her stomach sang a symphony when Steven merely glanced her way. It was a lot for her to take in, and she had yet to really admit to herself the truth of what was slowly becoming of their friendship together...not to mention she was still unraveling the traumatic time with Killian and the circus...something she imagined she'd be doing for a long while...

And she knew, especially through the bond and seeing Steve's aura, that he was feeling something spark too, but wasn't ready to rush into things, which made a lot of sense with the time period that he grew up in. 

He was, through and through, a man of honor and patience. 

She was still feeling off-balance about her place in the world and what it would all mean for her...she surely wasn't counting on becoming an Avenger anytime soon, but she did feel a reaffirming presence in that Steve was still committed to keeping her promise to her...

That whatever came after...he was going to be there every step of the way. 

There was a lightness from him that she hadn't seen before. And maybe it had something to do with the fact that Killian was locked up and he could rest easier knowing that the madman from the circus wasn't looming around every corner. 

That made two of them. 

The fact that Natasha and Steve were not that fazed by the large cats in the Quinjet spoke volumes about their comfort level around both Merida and Ansem. 

However, there were many at the Avengers tower that really never got on board with a lion roaming the halls of the place they called home. She had sensed the discomfort from Director Fury and many S.H.I.E.L.D. agents who were on edge when it came to being around Ansem. 

There had been murmurs along the hall of calling animal control, to which Merida would feel a sense of urgency in getting back to her quarters and making sure Ansem was still very much there. He hadn't done anything wrong, but his presence sure did raise a few hackles. 

She was so grateful for Steve's willingness to come with her on this important day. She didn't know if she could do it without him...didn't know if she could part ways with the lion-hearted friend she had become so attached to over the years. 

Natasha, Steve, and Fran had all volunteered to make the trip to Colorado to send Ansem off to his new home at the big cat sanctuary. It was the perfect number of people, making it a more intimate trip, and giving Merida time and space to be with Ansem without interruptions.

Fran was seated next to Steve, the perfect compliment to the scene that unfolded. Her gold bangle earrings caught the light as they swayed gently when the Quinjet rocked slightly. Her long dark locks of hair were flowing waves that painted a portrait of beauty and grace, now reaching down to her mid-waist. 

Killian had made subtle jabs at Fran's unruly hair when the oracle started at the circus and it was at that moment she made a silent vow to never cut it just to spite the madman, a testament to her fiery spirit.

Merida had been so in awe of Fran's courage in the face of Killian. 

It was something Merida had deeply wanted for herself. She had never really developed the courage to give him a taste of his own medicine and now that he was caught she knew she'd never get the chance to face him fully. 

The last time she had been face to face with his crazed smile and mirthless laughter was on the other end of that whip before being discarded like a ragdoll in the frozen waters off the dock. His skin was so white that night with makeup it contrasted against the empty pits of hell that were charcoal-black eyes. The crack of the whip was like a lightning rod of fire and pain that melded together until her skin was open flesh; raw and numb.

Yet...in between each crack of the whip, she had felt the beast within her, the tiger heart, reclaiming its sense of self-worth and recognizing all the ways in which Killian had been wrong. 

Her fighter spirit had roared its presence. 

She had, in that moment, broken free of any mind-controlling tactics he had used in the past to make her believe she was nothing but a worthless freak. 

Everything he had ever told her was a lie.

She was no freak. 

She was Merida Reid. 

And she was worthy.

The unforgiving and untamed parts of her tiger spirit wanted to maim and maul Killian, wanted to hear him scream......a pang of disappointment fluttered through her belly at the idea that she never got that chance to truly put an end to his reign. 

Merida quickly brushed those feral thoughts away from her mind's eye. 

She felt the itch of the tiger rise in her belly.

The other part of her, the light and goodness, that part was relieved he was gone and that she'd never have to see him again, and even better that she didn't have his blood on her hands. 

Fran's eyes were like windows to mystery and intrigue, sometimes so deep that Merida couldn't really understand what the oracle was thinking. But today, oh today....she noticed Fran's emotions were like an open book. 

There was a bittersweet energy that radiated from the seer. Her eyes silently welled up as she gazed at Merida and Ansem lying together on the Quinjet floor. She quietly dabbed at her eye and looked away as she composed herself.

Ansem's large head nudged Merida on the side of her face, a soft nuzzle from sensing her growing anxiety and sadness. The large lion licked the side of her face, the movement against her fur still like sandpaper and she relished in the feeling. Merida returned the sentiment and nuzzled against his large mane before resting her head upon his large golden paws. 

She would savor this moment. 

It wasn't like this would be their last time together, but Merida knew she couldn't visit every day, though Steve had mentioned S.H.I.E.L.D. more than enough funds to charter trips out there once a week if she wanted to see Ansem. He mentioned that putting the funds to good use wouldn't be such a bad idea, to which Fury had rolled his eyes. 

Natasha came over the intercom and mentioned they would need to brace for landing. 

Fran held onto the sides of her seat loosely as the Quinjet thudded to the ground. Merida felt her muscles tighten slightly, she still wasn't used to the aircraft as being in the air still gave her a sense of unease. When the large metal machine finally came to rest on the ground, she felt the muscles of her tiger body relax, the tension leaving almost immediately. 

Ansem's head jerked suddenly, swiveling around as an air of alertness and curiosity coursed through his heartbeat that now picked up into a steady rhythm.  

She felt the ripple of her gifted gene flowing through her veins like an endless current of power. With a snap and crackle of energy and a brief flash of raw magic, Merida was now standing in her human form next to Ansem. Her arms gently wrapped around the back of his neck as her right hand rubbed soothing circles down the thick fur of his deep golden mane.

Merida murmured soft words of encouragement to Ansem to soothe his nerves. 

Even though she knew he couldn't understand her human language, he seemed to have picked up on her energetic body. He nudged against her blue skinny jeans affectionately and visibly relaxed himself against her knowing that she was right there beside him. 

Steve met her gaze just then and she smiled at him as her left hand ran through her dark brown locks of shoulder-length hair that now glowed a sheen brighter than before. She noted her hands ran effortlessly through without feeling any tangles. 

Her once familiar chocolate brown eyes now held an additional radiance, with a delicate ring of honey-like color encircling her dark irises. Killian being locked up had brought out an ever-evolving transformation within Merida, both internal and external. 

Steve had since noticed that there was definitely a new light and vibrancy within her.

She stood taller now, clad in her dark skinny jeans, black ankle boots with a black ribbed tank top, and a dark teal zip-up jacket that relaxed open in the front. 

Her wardrobe had been enhanced since Fran was rescued from Killian's clutches. New pieces of wardrobe would show up in her closet randomly and Fran would only shrug nonchalantly and say that the shopping fairy must have gifted them to her. 

As Steve looked into her wide eyes, his own blue eyes reacted with tenderness to them.  

"So, have you changed your mind about the Quinjet?" Steve asked playfully as he unbuckled his seatbelt and stood, stretching his body back ever so slightly, the arch of his back painting a picture of hard muscle beneath the cotton-thin shirt. 

Merida's lips curved into a small smile. 

She had been terrified the first time she stepped foot into the aircraft and had been grateful for Steve's response in telling her stories about his childhood and his friend Bucky in an effort to take her mind off her fears. 

"It's....getting better. I'm still a little nervous about those landings," She admitted bashfully as a red hue crept across her cheeks. Ansem must have agreed because he nudged against her leg, making low grumbles to echo her sentiment of anxiety.

"Hey, as long as Barton isn't driving you're sure to get there in one piece," Natasha was in the middle of taking off her headset and unbuckling her seatbelt. She turned around, a coy smirk painted across her ruby red lips before slowly side-stepping Ansem as the ramp lowered, bringing in a rush of gusty Colorado mountain air into the Quinjet. 

Steve chuckled and shook his head at Natasha's joke.

"Remind me not to get into this aircraft with Clint.." Fran murmured with a smirk as she ran a hand through her thick waves of hair. 

She was a sight to see in her light beige lapel belted overcoat that rested right below her knees. Underneath she had paired it with black leather leggings, black boots, and a thin black blouse that tucked into her leggings.

Merida smiled as she realized that without Killian around both of them were free to wear whatever they wanted and express themselves however they wanted.

Francesa had taken full advantage of being a free woman. 

Merida was still figuring out who she was and what her style was, but it was all something she had time to explore now that Killian was out of the picture. 

She felt her skin grow warm, her face flushing from her round cheeks down and down her chest. The mere thought of him sent a roiling bubble of nausea down to her stomach. There were moments like this where Killian's face would enter her mind she would feel ill - these moments held no pattern so there was no way to know when they would come about. 

At that moment, a warm hand gently touched her shoulder, a sweet gesture and lifeline of safety and security that rippled through her, guiding her to take a slow shaky breath and steady her nerves and her stomach. She looked up at Steve, who stood there with his eyebrows knitted together in concern, though his blue eyes held a silent promise that she would be okay. 

She nodded at him silently, an indication that she was okay now. 

Merida was still getting used to the fact that she had an anchor to lean on, someone who was strong not only in physical strength but in spirit as well. Someone to help her navigate the darkness and healing that came after Killian. 

And she was still trying to reconcile her feelings of not wanting to be a burden to anyone. But time and time again, Steve's actions proved that he never once saw her in that way.

They walked down the ramp together, Ansem falling into step with Merida as his eyes took in the sight of the land around them. He observed with the curiosity of a cat, though his eyes and ears remained alert and primed for action. She casually stroked his mane, reassuring him that she was there every step of the way and that he had nothing to be afraid of. 

A stocky and well-built woman with a cascade of long blonde hair, khaki pants, worn-out tennis shoes, and a large oversized black jacket stopped short of their group. The blue baseball cap on her head stood out with its bold white logo of the cat sanctuary.

Her inviting eyes swept over each of them, and to Merida's surprise, the woman didn't gawk over the fact that Black Widow and Captain America had shown up to the sanctuary.

In fact, her eyes immediately fell upon Ansem and her smile broadened considerably as she lit up with enthusiasm and curiosity. This woman was completely unafraid of the large savannah cat that sat on his haunches before her. If anything, the woman gazed at Ansem fondly.

She had large hands, dirt under her nails, and her face looked like it had been worn and weathered by the wind and sun, but it didn't take away from the genuineness in her smile.

"You must be Ansem," Her voice was raspy and alluring as she gazed at Ansem fondly before her eyes rested back on Steve and the others. "I got a pretty nice size donation from Mr. Tony Stark," The gratitude in her eyes shone brightly as she took a step forward to meet Steve and shook his hand, "We really do appreciate it, especially considering our decline in donations this year," 

Steve glanced at Merida with a soft smile before looking at the woman, "Well, ma'am, we appreciate you for making room for him at your sanctuary, I know it was unprecedented,"

The woman waved a hand as if it were no big deal. 

"Oh heck, son, don't call me ma'am, it makes me feel older than I am." She paused to smile and the corners of her eyes revealed deep laugh lines, "I'm Diana." She added brightly.

Steve nodded respectfully to her request before introducing everyone. 

Her eyes found Merida and took note of the way Ansem protectively sat next to her, his feline eyes both curious and cautious. She nodded towards them both, "I'd love to take you on a tour of the grounds while you tell me a little more about Ansem. You can check everything out for yourself and learn more about our place and how we care for our furry friends," 

Merida had told Steve before they even took off that she wanted to tour the place to make sure it was a good fit for Ansem - she was just as protective over him as Ansem was of her. She wouldn't just drop him off in the care of anyone, and though this woman seemed friendly enough, Merida would rest easier seeing it for herself. 

She nodded politely, though inside, she felt the first real deep reality check hit her that this was actually happening. That she was actually going to part ways with Ansem and leave him in the care of someone else. 

Merida had to swallow behind the lump in her throat and nodded, "I would love a tour and I'm sure Ansem would appreciate it too." Beside her, Steve inched closer and in that moment she felt a swell of strength through the bond. 

Her eyes met Steve's, and the gratitude she felt was reflected in his warm, reassuring nod.

The tour proved to be the very thing that Merida needed to exhale deeply and feel that reassurance in her heart that Ansem would be in good hands. The land was stretched far and wide, allowing the big cats to have plenty of room to free roam in the designated areas while the Colorado mountains painted a beautiful backdrop in the distance.

She learned that Diana was now the owner of the sanctuary. Having taking over after the late owner passed away from old age, Diana had dutifully stepped in and she hadn't looked back since. Merida also learned that Diana grew up with a family that worked at a rehab facility for sick and injured animals. Ever since she could remember she had loved working with animals. 

The tour had taken the better part of an hour, if not more. Diana was reassuring and thorough with her tour, allowing Merida and Ansem to take a look at where he would reside, which proved to a large sanctuary in itself that took her breath away. 

Diana revealed that Ansem would be in his own quarters, but that they would slowly introduce him to some of the other cats whose temperaments matched his. She reassured Merida, saying, "We'll take things one step at a time, and we won't rush anything. Ansem will have the chance to adapt at his own pace, and we'll make sure he gets the care and attention he needs."

It was clear that their well-being was a top priority, and Merida couldn't help but feel a growing sense of relief and gratitude for the safe haven they had found for Ansem. It was very apparent that all the cats were well taken care of and that Diana not only took her job seriously, but she greatly loved each of the cats here as if they were her own kids.

During that time, Merida had given as much background as she could about Ansem. She didn't know much about how he had been acquired, but knowing Killian and his father it was probably borderline illegal. She explained that he had a very relaxed personality for the most part, but there were times that he got a streak of fire and could be very honorary and stubborn.

Diana chuckled and waved her hand towards the sanctuary, "You're describing just about every big cat here. Most everyone is relaxed except for Rex. He's our most recent tiger that was rescued from a drug trafficker." She scowled at this and shook her head, "Where these boneheads get it in their head that they can keep a wild animal.." She continued on after a beat, "Anyways, Rex is an adolescent so he's full of spunk and doesn't listen much," 

"That bonehead wouldn't by chance be Jeremy Whitlock would it?" Natasha asked with a sly smirk on her face as Steve and her shared a knowing look. Her red hair was a fiery contrast to her sleek black long sleeve shirt and dark jeans that tucked into combat boots. 

Diana looked perplexed, "I want to say that sounds familiar, why?" 

Natasha nonchalantly added, "I have a friend in narcotics who led the team that captured Whitlock. It's a huge crime syndicate takedown. Said he had a really big tiger tucked away in the basement of his mansion," 

The skillful widow added with a hint of a smile, "Steve and I were asked to help with the investigation, but we had a gig at the circus," Natasha then winked at Merida. 

Merida smiled and she noticed Fran smiling coyly at Natasha.

Merida cleared her throat, "Do you think it would ever be possible for Ansem to be released back into the wild at some point?" She nervously asked as Ansem nudged her hand playfully, nipping her fingers lightly in an attempt to get her attention. 

She smiled down at him as she rubbed the side of his face, his eyes closing in contentment now that Merida was paying attention to him. 

Diana sighed before placing both hands on her waist, "It varies from cat to cat, but some have been able to be released back into the wild. " She paused as weariness flooded her eyes, "I don't want to get your hopes up Merida, but many of these cats are so domesticated by this point..." Her voice trailed off and she shook her head with a hint of sadness. 

Merida's stricken eyes met Fran's, slightly taken aback by this revelation, before gazing back down at Ansem and feeling her heart skip a beat.

She couldn't imagine Ansem living out his life here. No matter how immaculate the place was. 

He deserved a life of complete freedom. 

Merida's brows furrowed as she admitted meekly, "I want him free, Diana....." She paused and then the words flowed from her lips with more conviction, "We have try....whatever it takes.." 

Diana nodded solemnly, clearly hearing the determination in Merida's voice, "I admire your dedication, Merida. It won't be an easy journey, but with the right approach and determination, we can work towards trying to set Ansem free." Diana added with a knowing smile, "It will require a lot of patience."

She glanced up at Steve and he nodded, a reassuring and unwavering beacon of support.

As they finished up, Merida stepped away from Steve and Natasha as they spoke with Diana. She took the moment to seek out Fran, approaching her with a bittersweet smile. 

"What do you think?" Merida looked around as Ansem sat comfortably next to them. 

Fran smiled encouragingly down at Merida with a heart full of support, "I have a no doubt Ansem will be fine here for the time being. What's more important is what you think?" 

Merida sighed and took a moment to look around the sanctuary. 

She knew in her heart he would be more than fine here. He would thrive. He would have more freedom than he ever had at the circus or even the tower. He would be with other cats and some that were even his own kind. He also had a chance to be free again with the help of these people.

Merida nodded, crossing her arms against her chest, feeling both small and strong, a flush of wind blew past them, whipping her hair around her face. 

"Intuitively I know this is where he needs to be, but it's just so hard.." Merida couldn't even finish the sentence without feeling her throat close up and her chest cave in. 

Fran reached out and enveloped her in a comforting embrace, wrapping her arms completely around Merida and squeezing as the Merida leaned into the woman who had been there for her through thick and thin at the circus.

"The hardest part of letting go is when we are filled with so much love for what we are letting go.." Fran murmured softly. Her words were like a whisper of comfort and wisdom. "I have a feeling that Ansem's love for you will only strengthen. You are giving him a gift, Merida...the gift of freedom and a chance at a better life," 

The seer's words cracked towards the end and she swore she could hear her sniffle. 

Merida was not the only one mourning this bittersweet goodbye. 

Something about her words went deeper than just Ansem having a better life...

They were all getting a chance at a better life - free of Killian's wrath and the circus.

"I know....and I can visit him anytime, "Merida optimistically chimed out, her lips ebbing up into a smile as she thought about the short time it took with the Quinjet to get here. Steve had said they could visit as much as she wanted and she'd hold him to that promise. 

Diana had given them full permission to roam the grounds for a bit, giving them clear instructions with a path to take that would allow Ansem to smell around and get familiar. 

For awhile, Merida and Ansem explored the grounds with Steve by her side. She loved how Ansem had become familiar with Steve and accepting of him as part of their little pack.

But soon....it was time to part ways.

Merida had been dreading this moment and try as she might to ask a million questions to stall for time, she knew that at some point they had to go. She was grateful that Steve and Natasha were so patient in giving her all the time in the world. 

And Diana, immediately sensing Merida's deep bond with Ansem, had been more than accommodating with their arrival, allowing them to hang around for as long as they wanted.

"Can I have a moment?" Merida whispered to Steve. 

He nodded lightly and smiled, "Take all the time you need," There was an unwavering sense of support from him that radiated through his bright blue eyes, those pools of waves glimmered even more now in the Colorado sunshine. 

As everyone gathered by the Quinjet, Merida crouched down, her knees meeting the earth as she came face to face with Ansem. He was sitting on his haunches, staring intently down at her, a stoic picture of beauty and regal strength. 

Merida took a deep, shaky breath, "You have saved me in more ways than one, Ansem. We have been through so much together, and you have always been there for me..." Merida's smile was strained, but she was trying. "I remember the day you arrived. They put you next to my cage. I was in tiger form, refusing to shift back after the lashing I had received from Killian," 

She shivered, the memory searing through her skin as if it had happened yesterday. 

"You must have been able to sense my anxiety because you walked up to the edge of your cage and sat as close as you could and just stared at me, trying to comfort me with your presence. It was the smallest gesture of kindness that made me feel safe enough to shift back..." 

"And when you licked my hand through the cage bars, I knew we'd be friends forever.." She choked on her words as her bottom lip quivered, "I wouldn't have made it this far without you, I hope you know that....so it's only fair that I gift with you the opportunity for something...better.."

"I want you to know that I'm doing this because I love you, and I know-I know you deserve a life of freedom. A cage is no place to call a home..." Her voice cracked miserably. "Please... just ...let me know that you understand.. please.." The pang of desperation in her voice faded meekly.

She reached both hands up to the sides of Ansem's face, her hands exploring his mane and holding tight to him as her head bowed slightly. 

Ansem gently headbutted her, rubbing his face against her head, making low grunting noises with a playful demeanor. When she looked up at the fearless creature, she saw a wave of sadness and anxiety flicker in his eyes, but it was quickly replaced with something she had never seen before... relief and pure unfiltered joy. 

Without warning, Ansem playfully reached his paws up and wrapped them around her, the two of them tumbling to the ground as he licked her face with a the giddiness of one that had just been granted freedom. His rough tongue rubbed against her cheeks, all the way up the side of her face in languid and loving licks. 

Ansem answered her question.

He more than understood...he was excited to be free and yet he wanted her to know that he would always love her too. Her laughter echoed as she felt the hot tears of grief and joy cascade down her face. 

A feeling of warmth flooded her heart, yet at the same time, her heart gripped with intense sadness. The paradox of being human and feeling everything so intensely and all at once.

The beast within her purred.

And it was at that moment she knew without a doubt that this was not goodbye. It was the beginning of a new chapter for Ansem, and she'd be there every step of the way for him.

Quickly, one last time for now, Merida felt a familiar surge of energy in her body as she shifted into her tiger form. She was well aware of the surprised gasp from Diana and the way she took a step back at seeing the very large tiger in the spot where Merida used to be. 

Ansem's eyes lit up like the fourth of July. 

The two of them ran together, playfully tackling one another and rolling around like two tethered souls who had shared what felt like a lifetime together. 

Merida's transformation into a tiger had taken Diana by surprise, but she quickly adjusted to the extraordinary sight before her.

Diana's astonishment was evident, but there was no trace of judgment in her eyes "I can see why Ansem is so fond of Merida now. They are kindred spirits.." She glanced at Natasha and Steve again with curiosity, "Is she a new recruit to the avengers?" 

Natasha smiled demurely, "No....at least not yet,"

Steve, on the other hand, continued to observe the heartwarming connection between Ansem and Merida, feeling the genuine joy and radiance flowing through their bond. 

"You know, I once met a girl that could talk to squirrels. She had a real squirrel tail and all the senses of those furry little critters. I think her name was Doreen.." Diana reminisced as she scratched her chin, lost in thought about the strange woman who had mutant powers.

The Quinjet's engine was a distant rumble as she now stood, back in her human form, at the base of the ramp with the others, staring out at Diana who waved, and Ansem, who was sat beside her. 

Ansem, was a sight to behold as he basked in the golden sunlight. His fur gleamed, and the gentle breeze played with his mane as he fixed his penetrating gaze on Merida. His ears perked as he stood up, his tail flickered playfully and then he was off like a rocket. 

Ansem's powerful form thundered against the earth as he charged towards her, and Merida knelt down to greet him with a joyful giggle as she welcomed the giant creature into her arms for one last tender moment. 

"Goodbye for now, my sweet king," Merida whispered affectionately, planting a kiss on the side of his head and patting his massive frame. He didn't sit down this time, remaining vigilant, watching over her as she was about to part ways and head up the ramp.

Diana came forward to meet them at the ramp and beamed, waving with a chuckle, "It looks like I'm going to have my hands full with him." Her eyes sparkled and she removed her ball cap, running a hand through tangles of wheat-blonde hair, "I'll make sure to call you with updates and feel free to come back anytime, Merida. Just call me before and I'll arrange a visit," 

Merida beamed and nodded, the gratitude overwhelming as her heart skipped a beat. 

She waved one last time as the ramp closed and she could have sworn that Ansem grinned.

Inside the Quinjet, you could hear a pin drop. 

The energy was palpable, heavy and yet bittersweet. 

Merida was now seated next to Steve, Francesca was across from them, her eyes closed as she got adjusted after takeoff and her hands resting in her lap. 

Merida grew pensive, lost in her thoughts and the silent battle of her emotions. 

She noticed Steve shifted beside her, gazing down and when she met his eyes she noticed his brows were slightly knitted, a small tug of his lips revealed a half smile, "You okay?" 

He knew she wasn't, but he also knew that getting her to talk about things would keep her mind off being on the Quinjet. She always seemed to feel less anxious when her mind wasn't overwhelmed with the jitters of the flying aircraft. 

She offered a sheepish smile and gazed at hands, wringing them together before gazing back up at Steve's inviting eyes, "I just feel like a piece of me was left behind, and I know this is what he needs and it makes me happy, but-but it doesn't take away how sad I also feel," 

She deflated in her seat, her shoulders now hunched as she looked back down at her hands, her hair falling against the side of her face, shielding her view from Steve momentarily. 

Steve nodded patiently. Even without the imprint bond, he knew that Ansem was a lifeline for Merida and they had been each other's peace in a chaotic and turbulent environment. 

Merida pushed her hair back behind her ears and snuck a glance up at him again.

"It's understandable to feel that way, Merida." He paused and reflected for a moment as if he wanted to say more so Merida smiled encouragingly, "Maybe the piece of you that you feel is left with him is the very thing that will keep him strong, and the piece of him that will always be with you will help you carry on and be strong too," 

His cheeks flushed and he averted his gaze from her, and she realized she was sad to see his blue eyes disappear to look down at his hands, "Maybe that makes no sense at all," He laughed to himself lightly and shook his head. 

It made perfect sense.

On instinct, Merida reached for Steve's hand and took it in her own. The touch brought her a wave of comfort and even though his hands were mildly calloused from the battlefield, they were always tender just for her. 

They had moments of brief physical contact, but even then it always seemed to take Steve by surprise when she would initiate the contact and not vice versa.

She watched him glance at their hands, now intertwined, and watched as he trailed his gaze from her hand all the way up her arm and to her brown eyes. 

She swore he exhaled softly.

"Thank you," Merida felt her insides quiver as he gazed at her with a silent of question in his eyes, to which she responded, "Thank you for being here today, and always finding the right things to say," She leaned forward and whispered playfully, "It made perfect sense,"

"Good to know I didn't just embarrass myself," His laugh was breathy, something that brightened his aura considerably, and brought a touch of that boyish charm from Brooklyn back into his eyes. It was something she realized she didn't see enough of with his life being a constant stream of battles and missions.

"I think tonight calls for some of that rolled ice cream we've been talking about, wouldn't you say so?" Merida inquired, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I mean, unless you have other plans...", 

Steve's response was filled with a flirtatious edge, his eyes locked onto hers. "I have no plans tonight," he confessed with a grin.

As the Quinjet carried them through the cloud cover and back towards New York, she found peace and comfort amidst the emotional rollercoaster of the day. She unabashedly nestled herself into him, their hands still intertwined, and rested her head against his arm.

She felt the muscles in his arm visible relax upon contact.

A moment of contentment washed over her, such a strange feeling when all she had ever really known during her time under Killian's wrath was pain, misery and a bleak existence. 

This newfound feeling caused her to beam with delight. It was a moment of warmth and happiness, and it seemed like the beginning of something truly special.

Author's Note: 

I AM SO SO sorry that I have taken so much time away from this story. I don't know if people are even interested in reading it anymore....but I for one am not going to stop writing this story until Merida and Steve's story is complete. ;) I do apologize though because I know there are many people invested in their story and I know what it feels like when the story stops and you just want more... So I apologize for the hiatus. 

Hopefully it was worth the wait. LOL :p 

Okay, I'm not crying... WHO IS CUTTING ONIONS AROUND HERE?!?! I knew this was inevitable and I wanted to make sure that the first chapter coming back around to this story was the parting of ways with Ansem so he can get the care he needs to hopefully one day be sent back to the wild and live a free life. T.T And the fact that Ansem loves her even more FOR gifting him his freedom is so beautiful - okay now I'm crying again..anways... T.T ...

I also am in love with the newfound sense of strength and confidence from Merida - I can see it in the little moments and subtleties. Her character growth is such a treat to witness and I'm really excited to continue watching her character heal from the past and move forward into this new life that she is creating for herself. 

Also, there was an Easter egg in this chapter. I did a little shout out to Squirrel Girl (Doreen Green) from a comic book. She was a mutant who could talk to squirrels, had a busy tail, etc. In the avengers, she was a college-aged girl + vigilante who also babysat for Jessica Jones and Luke Cage's baby! :) 

I know this chapter didn't have much Merida x Steve BUT I thought it was important to really focus on Merida, Ansem and even Fran during this chapter since they are the ones who were with Ansem during the circus and it was really important for Merida and Ansem to have their time to shine together.

Not to mention, I find that Merida's strength in letting Ansem go is a testament to her character and also a metaphor of her letting go of codependency and becoming more secure in herself. 

Thank you all for being here and for reading after such a long wait. I wanted to make this one extra special and long for you all. :)

I'm excited for Act III as this will be all about their bond and Steve x Merida connecting even deeper and feeling out what seems to be a new beginning for them both. 

This story is FAR from over so stay tuned! 

I have plans already for the final act (ACT 4) as well.. ;)

Also, shameless plug here, but if you're into original stories I have a new one out called The Last Fae - starring Emilia Clarke and Jensen Ackles. She's a fae and he's a werewolf. If you're into that sort of thing, definitely check it out and support the book... it would mean a lot! :)