Sweet and Sour

Chapter 6 - You already know

You felt like a zombie during your shift, lifting your limbs was like wading through water. You'd nearly called out sick, but didn't want to leave Wanda to hold the fort by herself – especially if Bucky and his stalkery thugs paid a visit. You had hardly slept after you discovered Sam in the car. It was unsettling. You wondered how long Bucky had been doing it, kicking yourself for being too oblivious to notice that you were being followed. You hated how violated it made you feel.

You had gone to work looking at each car that passed you, eyes searching for the familiar vehicle. You checked parked cars, cars halting at stop signs, cars turning down parallel streets. You didn't see anything, but resented the paranoid wreck you'd become in a matter of hours. Then it hit you that they might have switched vehicles and you'd have no idea if they'd already passed you.

Wanda took one look at you and knew something was off, grilling you until you gave it up. You were embarrassed, truth be told. You'd gushed to her about Bucky and then you had to confess that he'd had you followed for God only knows how long. You felt foolish. It was arrogant of you to think you could tease a mob boss for months on end without any consequences.

Wanda's eyes bugged in shock, horrified by this development.

"That's so fucked up..." she said gently.

"Yep" you sighed sadly as you laid out the fresh stock.

"And you haven't spoken to him since?"

You shook your head, stifling a yawn. "Nope...But if I had a crystal ball I'd assume that might change today".

Wanda thought hard. "Are you going to go to the cops?"

You glared at her. "And say what? The employees of a man I flirt with at my bakery were parked outside my house at 3am on a public road where anyone can drive? They didn't approach me, they were just sleeping in their car? Oh and that man just happens to be notorious mob boss Bucky Barnes, who you probably take bribes from?" you respond, sharper than you intended to.

Wanda gritted her teeth. "Well...when you put it like that..."

You sighed again. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to snap at you. I know you're trying to help. I'm just tired. And y'know...weirded out".

Wanda nodded. She moved towards you and pulled you in for a hug. You accepted it gladly, allowing her embrace to comfort you.

"Thanks...I needed that" you murmur.

"Anytime. Look...I don't mean to scare you, but I have to ask. Do you...do you think you're in danger?" she asks cautiously.

You pause for a moment, considering the question. "Honestly? No. I don't feel like I'm at risk. I'm just...very spooked" you explain.

Wanda nods, chewing her lip. You can tell she's worried.

The bell above the door rings, breaking you two from your thoughts. Your heads spin to check who it is, only to see Bucky, Steve and Sam walk in. Their faces are solemn, it suddenly feels very warm in the room, as if you are standing right by the oven.

"Morning, gentleman" you call over to them, your tone indignant. "I would tell you what our specials are today, but I'm guessing you have already sent someone by to check".

Bucky exhales, staring at you fiercely. His eyes are as penetrating as ever, hard to tear away from.

"Can we talk?" he asks gruffly.

You pretend to think for a moment. "Uh...no" you fire back sarcastically.

"C'mon Doll..." he replies, taking a hesitant step towards you.