A Heart Break In Time

I Didn't Bring Enough For The Whole Team.

"Sam? What the hell are you talking about? I'm an Avenger, not a paper pusher." I don't know where the hell this came from.

Sam turned to me with a huge grin on his face. "Talia, you had some of the world's greatest minds, mightiest heroes and all that, in one room. Who thought to communicate with the government? Who's idea was that?"

"Well, mine. But so?"

"You are the only person I know that can think logically in those situations. Steve brought Peggy back, and you went to go find Wanda and made time to come check on Bucky and I. Hell, Bucky was missing and you still went to save Peggy. And forgave the three people who were sent to spy on you. They turned against Fury because of you." Sam grabbed my shoulder. "You're the heart of this team. You have been for years. You take care of us." He sighed. "And you're tired of it. Steve told me you want out. But I don't think you could ever really leave us without being guilty. This would be the middle ground. So, if leaving is truly what you want. This is it. This is your chance."

I stared at Sam. Is this what I wanted? He's right, the guilt would eat me alive if I just quit. But what's the alternative?

Fury spoke before I could. "That... could be a discussion."

"If it's dangerous enough I'd still go out on missions." I answered, finally finding my voice after Sam shocked me. I looked at my family, all mostly looking either happy or confused. Bucky just stared straight ahead to Fury. He really mastered the art of hiding his emotions but man, I could really use a heads up on how he's feeling right about now. Guess it would have to wait. "I want to stay in the compound, keep training. I want to keep helping you all train, too." That made Bucky look at me and the corner of his mouth curled up. So, that was good then.

Fury shrugged. "It's not a paper pushing job. Just don't do anything without a meeting. No paperwork, just an agreement that you're working with us."

I turned around and nodded. "I have conditions."

"I would be surprised if you didn't."

"Wanda is not to be convicted on her actions in Westview."

Fury hesitated. "That... may be a problem."

Wanda stepped forward. "I will not be a part of the Avengers unless it is... well, unless the world is at risk. I will stay behind and train. I will not be in the public eye, which I believe would be the main concern. Am I right?"

"Yes." Fury responded. "That I believe can be agreed on. As for the rest of you," he looked at Bucky. "Your current court ordered requirements are still in effect. This doesn't change that."

"Understood." I replied. "Peter's identity still stays hidden. I know you know, no one else. He's finishing school like a normal kid."

"A normal kid who can stop a train."

I smirked. "Yes, exactly like that."

Fury took two steps forward, Maria stepped with him. "I believe this is when we shake on it, Aimilios."

I walked towards him with Sam by my side. I stuck my right hand out and waited for Fury to take it. With a firm shake a smiled. "Pleasure negotiating with you. Now," I pulled my hand back. "I'd like to discuss my title."