Wildfire (Steve Rogers AU)

15

News of the engagement had travelled around Greystone almost as quickly as it had broke. Ever since then, Hadley had spent time with her new husband to be, feeling more comfortable at Brock getting to know her son now she was letting him fully into their lives.

He was good with the boy and she liked watching them together, but his way with Flynn was different compared to how Steve was with him.

Less time had been spent at The Howling Commando Ranch as she became caught up with wedding preparations and spending time with her son and new husband to be. Brock had gifted her new dresses, jewellery, new toys for Flynn as well.

Hadley knew they would be comfortable and looked after.

The shop door opened one morning, and Steve walked in, now seeing her and nodding curtly. "Miss Hadley..."

The pair hadn't seen or spoken to one another since the news had travelled, but there was no doubt he'd heard about it. Sarah had sent her congratulations when she'd come in to the store previously.

"Steve, how are you? I haven't seen you in a while?" She said as he put some bits on the counter and fished out some coins from his pocket.

"Been a busy one. Got some new foals to train up at the ranch so Bucky and I have been focusing on that...I, er...heard you're getting married? Congratulations".

She smiled lightly. "Thank you...not long now. Brock wants to get married sooner rather than later which is understandable. I'm sorry I haven't been able to let Flynn see the horses as much as I'd like".

"He's still welcome, anytime - you know that" He smiled lightly. "You sure you're ready to settle in marriage again?" Then he saw her face. "I'm not trying to put you off, I'm just wanting to know you're certain".

Hadley nodded. "He'll look after me. He's already given Flynn and I so much. It's just the life that he needs, more so than me".

"He's all that matters - but if you're happy, then I guess that's what matters too" He smiled and took the things he'd brought. "When's the big day?"

"In a few weeks".

He was silent for a moment, "Anyway I need to get back, there's a lot of things I need to get done - you take care of yourself if I don't see you before then".

"You too, and Steve?"

"Yeah?"

"I am happy, just in case you're worried that he won't treat me right?"

He shrugged. "You're a big girl Miss Hadley. You can make your own decisions about your life, and if Brock Rumlow is who you know will make you happy and keep you comfortable? Then I trust that judgement".

"Even though you dislike him?"

"Brock and I have our differences but that's between us. How I see him is different to how you do". She followed him out as he mounted his horse. "Good luck Had".

Then he was gone in a cloud of dust.

**

"So that's it? You just letting her go and not gonna do anything about it?" Johnny asked Steve that evening as they sat outside on the porch with some beers.

"I can't do anything Johnny, and I'm certainly not gonna try and stop her from marrying a man she loves. Her mind's made up".

Johnny looked across to his brother. "So you do like her?"

He looked at the ground, "I don't know, there's something about her, but..."

"Yes then".

Steve sighed. "I'm not about to come between Hadley and her happiness. Wouldn't be right of me. And as much as I hate Brock? It's her decision".

"Damn". Johnny sighed. "First girl that catches your eye and you let her go".

"Just the way things are sometimes, life". Steve replied and took a swig of beer. "I've gotta let her go".