Natasha POV

"Maria, you know I can't tonight. I have to leave right after work." I said grabbing my phone and checking my messages.

"Come on, Nat. Please." Maria sat on my desk pleading with me to go out with her tonight.

"I have plans Maria." I didn't particularly want to say I was going out with Steve, but I guess it was going to come up at some point.

"Plans with who?" She spoke raising an eyebrow.

"With Steve.." Putting my phone down and redirecting my gaze to the papers on my desk.

"Oh my god. Steve the cop?"

"Yes Maria." My voice dripping with annoyance.

"Well then I guess, I'll let you out of my plan tonight, but I want details tomorrow."

"We're not doing anything special today, just dog shopping."

"You're getting a dog?"

"No, he is. I told him I'd go with him, so I'm meeting him at the precinct tonight."

"Oh ok, then I guess I'll get just relax with Sam tonight." She said winking at me.

"Alright tell him I said Hey."

"Will do." Maria slid off my desk and walked out. It was already after 6, so I got ready to leave the daycare and head to the precinct.

As I walked out the halls of the school, I saw Eli. He was a 5 year old and the most adorable little boy. He was the color of deep chestnut with soft coiled hair. He was often the last one to stay after school because his mom was a nurse who worked crazy hours and his dad didn't get off until 6. Typically he was gone by 6:20, but it was already 6:30 and he was still here.

"Hey Eli. Is your mommy on her way?" I said kneeling down to his height.

He just shrugged and played with his fingers.

"Well do you mind if I sit with you?" I asked already positioning myself on the steps in front of the building.

"Ok." He soft voice was filled with sadness. I hated to see him so down. He was normally happy during school hours but now it's like joy escaped him.

I started small talk with him and 15 minutes later his mother was running over to us apologizing for her tardiness.

"It's ok, really." I reassured her.

"Thank you. I'm really trying to make it here on time, but with traffic and the patients, its hectic." She said as she ran a hand through her curls.

"I understand. I have to go now. Bye." I said waving to her. "Bye Eli."

"Bye Ms. Nattie." I smiled at his nickname. I let the kids put their own spin on my name because I know Romanoff might be a bit long for four year olds to grasp.

I checked the time and it was already 6:50. I texted Steve and let him know I'd get there around 7:15 because of Eli. I was happy to see him. I didn't know how to feel after our last encounter but I tried to push it out my mind. I didn't want things to be awkward with us, so I figured I'd act like nothing happened, unless he brought it up. Shit! What if he did? What If he liked me? Would I even accept a date right now? I pondered the thought of us and felt a smile creep across my mouth. I think I would. I mean hell, he was so amazing, I couldn't see why not. For some reason, I put more pep in my step hurrying myself to the precinct. I definitely wanted to see him now. My thoughts carried me on until I was suddenly standing before his office door. I knocked softly. I knew I was late and hoped he wouldn't be too upset.

"Come in" His voice deep with bass.

"Hey, Sorry I'm late." His face, which was lined with wrinkles, suddenly up with a smile.

"Hey, it's ok. I got your message. Did his mom come?" He asked walking from around his desk to greet me with a hug.

"Yes she did. You ready?"

"Yea, but before we go. I want to talk to you about the case."

"What about it?" I furrowed my eyebrows.

"I had called you yesterday, but you were at work. We think we found the men who attacked you. We just need you to confirm it's them. You up for it?"

"Yea, are we doing that now? " I was nervous at the thought of having to see them. Would they know I was there. What if they got out? I felt my anxiety creep up until Steve held my arm.

"Yes. I'll be there the whole time ok? Don't worry. They won't be be able to see you behind the glass." He assured me as if he could read my mind.

I nodded and followed him down the hall to where the men were. After a few minutes, I saw Sam walking towards us.

"Sam, what're you doing here?"

"I'm a cop, Tasha." He said with a small opening up for a hug.

"Oh I didn't even know." I said hugging him. "Maria never told me."

"Yea, Why're you here?" He looked confused.

"Um. I got into a little bit of trouble, so I had to come and identify some people." I tried to keep it brief because I honestly didn't like to talk about the case.

"It's the case from earlier Sam. Natasha Romanoff." Steve spoke reminding us that he was still here.

"Ohh." Sams eyes widened at the realization. We never did get on a last name basis. We only connected through Maria. "I'm sorry, Tash. We're gonna nail these guys though." He said offering me a sad smile.

"Thanks."

"I'll catch you later. I'm about to go see her." He said referring to Maria.

"I know. She told me."  I winked eliciting a chuckle from him.

"Oh Steve. I forgot to tell you, Kate said to give her a call. She had fun last night." I glanced over at Steve, who tensed. Who was Kate? I thought he was single. I felt myself get annoyed and sad at the idea. How the hell could he not tell me he had a girlfriend? I couldn't exactly be mad considering we were still getting to know each other and we never said that we were dating, hell we just became friends, yet I still couldn't help but feel jealous about him and another woman. How could I possibly think someone as handsome as him wouldn't have options, especially ones who could give him what I couldn't...

"Oh ok, yea thanks."  I heard him reply.

"Bye Tasha. Bye Steve." With that Sam, walked out and went to meet Maria.

Steve and I walked in an awkward silence. I guess he could feel the energy change after the announcement of Kate, but why should it? It's not like we were a thing anyway. Just friends. We entered a room and Steve knocked on the glass announcing our arrival. Moments later, five men walked in and held up numbers 1-5. I stared at each one before eyes finally landed on number 3. My heart raced and I could feel the tears beginning to sting my eyes. It was him. I immediately turned around, so I wouldn't have to face him anymore.

"Its number 3." I said quietly, not making eye contact with Steve.

"Are you sure?"

I nodded my head and heard him knock on the glass again.

"Are you sure they can't see me?" I ask timidly.

"Yes. I'm positive. It's nothing but blackness on their side." He said rubbing my arm gently. "Theres one more line-up Nat and then we're done. ok?"

"Mhm" I turned around and saw a new set of men. I noticed number 2. He was the younger one.  I picked him out and Steve knocked on the glass.

"Good job. They won't be on the streets for a long time." He said giving me a smile.

"Thanks Steve." I smiled back but still couldn't shake the weird feeling in the pit of my stomach.

"It's no problem. You still up for dog shopping?" He asked as we walked back towards his office. I didn't really feel like it anymore, but I said I would go and I am a woman of my word.

"Yea sure." He looked skeptical but went along with it.

We went back to his office and Sharon was packing up her belongings to go home for the night.

"Night Sharon." Steve said politely.

"Good night Captain Rogers."  Sharon replied winking at him and walking out pass me.

He gave her a small smile and entered his mid-sized office. My mind was racing. Was Steve really as clueless with women as he said he was? I mean the "fun night" with Kate, the shameless flirting from Sharon and his time with me. Was I just going to be another notch on his belt or did he genuinely view me as important? I was in deep thought until Steve spoke up.

"Nat you ok?"

"Yea." I shot him a small smile before redirecting my gaze at the choking hazard poster hanging above his desk.

"Ok. Well the pet store is closer to our neck of the woods, so we can go. I looked up a few dogs that I may be interested in and I want to get everything tonight, like the pet bed and food."

"Mmkay" I wasn't in the talking mood. I really just wanted to be alone with my thoughts. Steve glanced at me with a weird look but led us to his car without a word.

The car ride was silent and I couldn't deal. My fingers found their way to the radio and music filled the air. Adele's Make You Love Me played softly as the wind blew through the car. I felt more relaxed. Her voice was so mellifluous, it was calming and filled with so much soul. I got lost in the song and eventually started singing along.

I'd go hungry; I'd go black and blue

And I'd go crawling down the avenue

No, there's nothing that I wouldn't do

To make you feel my love

The storms are raging on the rolling sea

And on the highway of regret

The winds of change are blowing wild and free

You ain't seen nothing like me yet

I could make you happy, make your dreams come true

There's nothing that I wouldn't do

Go to the ends of this Earth for you

To make you feel my love, oh yes

To make you feel my love

The song ended and Steve spoke up for the first time since we got in the car. "Wow, that was amazing Nat."

"Thank you." I say softly as my cheeks turn red.

"I didn't realize you could sing."

"Well the opportunity never really came up." I shrugged.

"You're amazing. Your voice sounds...wonderful." He gushed stealing a glance at me.

"It's not all that Steve." Brushing off the compliments.

"Don't be humble. It's really good Nat." His eyes meeting mine.

"I don't sing a lot. I just do it for fun."

"Well I think it's my new favorite sound." He sounded sincere as he spoke such high praises.

"Oh please" I say rolling my eyes.

"I'm serious, you're a triple threat. Dancer, Singer, Entrepreneur. What can't you do?"

"Cook." I quickly reply back with a smirk.

"So you say, but I'd like to find out for myself."

"You think Kate will mind?" The question dripping with slight jealousy that I didn't expect.

"Kate? Why would she mind?" Steve asked confused.

"Well Sam said you had fun last night, figured you would be dating or something." I said sounding a little more bitter than I wanted. I looked over at him reading his expression.

He chuckled slightly. "Kate and I aren't a thing. Sam asked me to come with him to get drinks. I didn't even know Maria and Kate were there. I thought it would be just us two. Kate and I talked while Maria and Sam we're all over each other. Neither one of us wanted to witness there intense PDA, so we talked. At the end, she gave me her number but I don't intend on calling her, Nat."

I listened intently as he explained the situation. He sounded sincere, but I still didn't like that she gave him her number. I couldn't be mad though, it's not like he knew she was going to be there anyway.

"Oh ok..well I was just making sure. Don't wanna be the cause of a failed relationship." I joke trying to make the car ride less intense.

"Why? Did it bother you that I had a "date" with Kate?" He teased, smirking as he put more emphasis on the word date than needed.

"NO! Why would I? We're just friends right?" I say fairly quickly.

"Right" I looked over at him and could see his jaw slightly tighten. It's not like I was the one who went on a date and even if I did, he wouldn't have the right to be upset. I stared at him for a little before turning away and staring out the window for the rest of the ride. We arrived at Nani's Pet Shop. It was a small storefront, but vibrant.

Steve and I walked in and was welcomed by a tall, brown-haired man. He was good looking, as if he came from a Men's magazine, a pretty boy.

"Hey, Welcome to Nani's. My name is Brett. Let me know if you need anything." The worker said looking at me and smiling.

"Hello. We are actually looking for a dog." Steve said moving closer to me.

"Oh great. We have quite a few, any in particular you're looking for?" He said looking between me and Steve.

"Well I'm thinking a Lab, Siberian Husky, Boxer, or a Golden Retriever." Steve named some dog breeds while glancing at me, then refocusing back on the worker.

"Sounds good. We have a few of those in the back. You can follow me." He said already walking towards the door that read "Do not enter without an employee." I walked slightly ahead while Steve had his hand placed on my back. It felt so normal to me that I didn't even realize he had it there for quite some time.

"This guy here is a 3 month old Lab. He is purebred." He pointed towards a beautiful golden specimen. His eyes were big and brown. I couldn't help the smile that played across my face.  "Would you like to hold him?" The worker, Brett, asked looking at me warmly.

"Yes Please." I was excited. I never had a dog, but being here made me want one. He placed the lab in my arms and it licked my face all over. I laughed as the puppy moved in my arm. "He is so cute."

"Not as cute as you." Brett said while he watched me play with the little angel. I blushed thanking him. I could feel Steve's eyes boring a hole into the side of head. He moved his hand from my back making me miss his touch. I looked up, seeing him walk away towards the other dogs.

"What do you think?" Brett asked me pulling my attention back to him.

"Actually it's not for me. He's the one who needs the stamp of approval." I tilted my head in the direction of Steve. "I'm just here for support." I smile at him.

"Oh ok. Is that your boyfriend?" He asked boldly.

"Oh um No, he's not." I started feeling weirded out. I really wasn't in the mood to date and even if I was, I wouldn't give Brett my time. What man would shamelessly flirt in front of a girl's boyfriend? Granted Steve wasn't mine, but Brett didn't know that.

"Then that means I could take you out sometime." He spoke confidently, moving closer to me than I wanted.

"I'm not really in the dating mindset right now. Sorry." I let out a nervous chuckle.

"Well I had to at least try, right?" He said sizing me up and down licking his lips.

"Yea" I reply before focusing back on the dog in my arms.

"Excuse me, Can I see this one here?" Steve called out from across the room, thankfully freeing me from him. Brett walked over and I trailed behind. I looked in pin and saw a small brown boxer. It seemed so sweet. He was excited to see Steve, immediately drawn to him. I put my Lab down and pet the boxer that was now in Steve's arms.

"He's so cute." I said.

"This is the one." Steve smiled widely as the boxer licked him all over and tried to climb onto him more.

"Well, I can help you get everything you need for him." Brett said eagerly.

"No, thats ok. I know what I need. Thank you for your help." Steve said with a slight attitude. I was taken aback but didn't say anything.

"Ok, I have to take this guy here to the back until you're ready to check out. Just let them know, you're getting a dog and the cashier will get them." Brett said taking the dog from Steve's arms

"Thank you Brett." I say after realizing Steve wasn't going to speak.

"No problem Miss." He walked away and I looked at Steve before lightly smacking his arm.

"What happened? Why were you acting like that?" I asked.

"I just don't care for his behavior." He replied nonchalantly. His eyes following the room to find the dog food.

"You mean his flirting?" I tease.

"Yes, Nat. I think it's inappropriate."

"I think it's harmless, a little discomforting but harmless nonetheless." I retort.

"It's not. What if he would've asked you out?"

"He did and I didn't agree but what if I had. It's not like I have anyone else interested in me." I look at him hoping he'd contest my statement. However, he didn't. I remained silent and grabbed the few items that Steve would need.

"I got a few toys and the food." I said walking over to him, who was now standing in a different aisle.

"Thank you." He didn't look up at me, just kept his focus on the dog beds that were in front of him.  "Which one do you think I should get?"

"I like that one." I said pointing at the big, black cushioned bad. "Boxers can get pretty big, so it'll be good to get something he can grow into."

"Alright, sounds good." He picked up the cushion and threw it in the cart. After grabbing a few more items, we checked out and were handed the little guy.

"You mind holding him while I put the bags in the car?" Steve asked as we made our way to the car.

"No, of course not." I replied putting on my baby voice while I pet the small boxer. Steve loaded the car and pulled off.

"Do you need any help setting up?" I ask, not really wanting our night to end.

"Um if you want you can come and help out." It's not that I didn't feel wanted but I damn sure didn't feel welcome.

"If you don't want me to, it's fine. You can drop me off" I rolled my eyes feeling myself getting irritated. He looked over at me and shook his head.

"Nat, it's fine. I could use the help with setting the stuff up and getting him adjusted." His behavior was still off but I didn't want to dwell on it. I just nodded my head and continued to pet the little baby. I'd figure out why eventually. 25 minutes later, we were pulling up to his building and unloaded the car. I decided to walk the puppy since I didn't know when the last time he handled his business.  I grabbed his leash from the bag and took a lap around the block, while Steve took the bags upstairs. By the time, I came back all the bags were upstairs and almost unpacked.

"Hey, he finished up." I said locking the door behind me.

"Ok good. Thanks." He said focusing on unpacking the last few products.

"No problem."  I took off the boxers leash and let him run around the apartment. I looked back at Steve trying to figure out what to say. The tension was so thick and I could tell he was still upset. "So um what're you going to name him?"

"I'm not sure. Any suggestions?"

"What about Rocky?" He immediately shook his head. "Its too common." He explained. "Ok, well what about Thanos?" He shook his head again. "Too weird." I rolled my eyes at his excuse. "Alright, Rogers. How about Dodger? Like the Brooklyn Dodgers." For the first time. Steve actually looked up. " I like it." He said smiling at me.

"DODGER." He called, the puppy was already at his feet. "I guess you already know your name little guy. Dodger Rogers."

"Wow, what a poet." I joke as I knelt down to pet Dodger.

"Makes it even more perfect huh?" He replied squatting next to me.

"Yea I guess so." I turn my head to look at him, but he was already inches from me. Our eyes locked and I could feel my self start to get excited. I couldn't resist stealing a look at his lips. I felt myself slowly move closer and he to me. We were inches apart with only air in between. There was nothing but time and opportunity. My eyes closed and I leaned forward only to feel a small head poke in between us. I opened my eyes to see Dodger licking all over Steve. What a cock blocker.

I laughed at the irritation and joy on Steve's face "I guess he wanted some kisses." I joke.

"So did I." He said making eye contact with me. For the third time today, I felt myself blush. I looked away at him and smiled to myself.

"Nat?" He called out softly.

"Yea." My eyes meeting his.

"I'm sorry about earlier. I was just upset about that guy from earlier. I didn't like him hitting on you."

"Why? It's not like you want me." I said standing up.

"I do...I  just...I didn't want to move too fast." He spoke standing up. " I like you. You're a gorgeous woman and I didn't want you to think I wanted one thing. Then, the assault too. I didn't want to scare you off.."

"You didn't move too fast. I like you too. I just couldn't tell how you felt. I get a vibe from you that you like me and then sometimes I think you're just being friendly. I want to get to know you more Steve, I do. I trust you. You've shown the kind of person you are and I know you're not just after one thing."

Steve smiled at me and I could feel my heart flutter. "Well I'd love to get to know you more. I promise I'll show you how much I really like you. How about I start tonight. Do you wanna watch a movie...with me?" He sounded so unsure, it was cute. How could I resist?

"Yea, I'd really like that." I smiled widely.

"Great. I can whip up some food for us and you can pick a movie you like."

"Ok. What genre do you like?"

"I like anything, but to be honest. I'm a sucker for Romcoms." He admitted.

"What?! The big bad Captain likes romantic comedies." I laughed at him.

"Hey, I like a feel good movie, just go find something." He said pointing to the TV.

"Fine, Fine." I put my hands up to surrender.

I walked over to the 64" TV that was mounted on the wall. I flipped through Netflix and found a movie I think he would like. It was called The Wedding Planner. It starred Jennifer Lopez and Matthew McConaughey. I got settled onto the couch and took off my shoes to get comfortable. "Hey, I found something." I yell out to him from the Living room. "What're you making?"

"Tacos. Classic." He yelled back.

I got up and walked a couple feet over the counter watching him cook. "Need any help?"

"Can you cut up the onions?"

"Yea give me the worse job." I say acting spoiled.

"Well delicious meals take hard work." He replied smirking at me.

"Mhmm." I walked around the counter entering the kitchen. He slid me the cutting board and I began cutting the onions. In no less than 10 seconds, my eyes were already stinging with tears. I wiped them with the back of my hand, so I could see. It powered through and finished in a few minutes.  "Here, you." Handing him the minced onions.

"Thanks. Do you mind watching ground beef while I change out of my work clothes?"

"No, it's fine." With that he disappeared to his room. The smell of tacos filled the air. I didn't realize how I hungry I was until I smelt the beautiful aroma in the air. I stirred the meat until I felt strong arms wrap around me. His head right above me as he put his hand over mine. "I like to flip the meat rather than stirring it because the spices mix better." He spoke while his breath tingled against my ear. "Here, try some." He lifted the spoon to my mouth, feeding me. I took a small piece and my eyes rolled back. It was too good. I moaned a little before licking my lips and turning around.

"Well I guess you are the master chef as you say. Care to teach me a few things?"

"I'm more than willing." Our chests were touching as he pressed into me. His hand on my waist and the other turning the knob on the stove, cutting it off. Once again, I found myself ready to make a move. I read his movement and could see his eyes exploring my face. It was intense. His deep blue eyes poured into mine. He leaned closer, this time not worried about Dodger interrupting. Swiftly, he pulled me in and kissed my lips. It was soft and intimate. His left hand cupped my face as he deepened it. I moaned into his mouth as our tongues danced together. My hands moved through his hair, gripping it tightly. His right hand traveled down my side landing firmly on my waist. Even now, a true gentlemen. We kissed until we couldn't breath and pulled away. My face was flushed and lips were swollen. Our breathing was the only thing that could be heard. He stepped back removing his arms from my waist.

"Steve..." I said breathlessly.

"Nat.."

We didn't know what to say. Our eyes just stayed locked on one another. "Guess the food is ready." I said glancing back at the turkey meat.

"Yea. I guess so." He nervously laughed.

"Um I'll make us our plates." I said turning around, biting my lip and grabbing two plates. "Go sit, I'll bring it to you, since you cooked."

"Alright." He said walking over to the couch. My mind raced as I made four tacos. I can't believe we kissed, an amazing one at that. My heart was racing a mile a minute. I tried to contain my grin. I felt like a schoolgirl who finally got asked to prom by her crush. A few minutes later, I was handing him his two tacos and eating mine.

We sat on the couch in silence as we ate our tacos. Occasionally, stealing glances at each other and smiling before looking away. We finished fairly quickly since we were both starved. We even gave a little bit to Dodger who was begging at our feet.

"Um.. wanna watch the movie now?" I ask trying to fill the silence that was now settling.

"Yea, uh what movie did you pick?" He looked over at me.

"The wedding planner. A romcom must see." I joked feeling the atmosphere getting back to normal.

"Can't wait to see." He replied. I played the movie and Steve turned out the lights from his phone.

"Impressive." I remark.

"That the only thing?" His eyes meeting mine.

"Nope, but the movie is starting so shhh." He smiled back at me, while I rested my head on his lap. His fingers combed through my hair as J.Lo moved across the screen. I guess between my long day and my head massage, my eyes couldn't handle the struggling of being open. In no time, I was welcomed by sleep.