Annabelle Rogers - James 'Bucky' Barnes

Chapter Twenty- Four

The day started off like any other day for Annabelle. Heading down to the training room to meet Wanda for her morning yoga and meditation. Followed by a steaming hot shower - Accompanied by James of course - then a large coffee before making her way to the ball room.

Opting for a more casual look, Annabelle was wearing her classic oversized hoodie, black tights and Uggs, knowing she will be getting dolled up shortly.

Flicking on the main switch the ball room sparkled with white twinkling lights. Neatly strung from the open ceiling the lights appeared like light falls of snow flakes.

Walking down the empty hall, she reached two wide glass door, heading out onto the entertainment decking. Completely frosted over by last nights snow fall.

Checking the remote heating system, Annabelle switched it on in hopes of melting down the ice and making a comfortable environment for her guests.

Double checking everything was to her satisfaction Annabelle headed towards the kitchen, in desperate need of some food.

The table was full of laughs as Annabelle walked in. The new hot couple sitting at the head of the table - Natasha on Steves lap - with Wanda, Vision, James and Sam either side of them.

It was the usual group that stayed for Christmas. Clint always opted to spend the holiday season with his family while Bruce usually disappears no re-aperance until after the New Year.

Walking into the kitchen Annabelle took note of her dad by the coffee machine and -

"PEPPER!" Annabelle yelled out, running up and jumping into her arms. "I was hoping you'd make it!"

"Sweetie, I wouldn't miss this for the world. It's Christmas and I know how much it means to you. Means to this family"

Finishing their embrace as Tony handed Annabelle a fresh cup of coffee before attending to the eggs, Pepper threw her arm around Annabelle shoulder, bending down and whispering.

"So, What's new with you? you a glowing!"

There was no hiding anything from this women, she knew straight away if Annabelle was hiding or lying about something. Noticing every change about her, whether it was how she spoke or how she held herself.

"Is it a boy? - A new one? or the one you where seeing last summer?"

Without a word, just a smirk Pepper picked up that the old flame was reunited.

"Oh, I'm so happy you found a keeper Chip"

"You got back with that boy of yours? When did this happen?" Tony asked in a tone of question and disbelief. When did she have time to date when she was always at the compound.

Plating some eggs on toast for himself and Pepper, Tony made his way to the table to sit down, still processing that his daughter has a secret relationship and managed to keep it a secret.

Sitting down amongst the others Annabelle very much wished the topic was dropped. Pepper loved to stir Tony with anything to do with Annabelle but with this specific topic, Annabelle wanted it to disappear.

Finishing his mouthful, Tony eventually looked up from his plate, locking eyes with Steve from across the table.

"Did you know that Chip reunited with her Summer fling?" He ask, stroking his chin. Staring down at Steve with squinted eyes, assuming that Steve was keeping this a secret from him too.

The most puzzled look spread across Steve's face at the question. Nat adjusted herself on Steve, sitting up slightly straighter. Both Natasha and Wanda where shooting stares at Annabelle from across the table.