Don't Fear The Reaper

Chapter 5

"They're all gonna have nightmares and more questions in the morning," Phil said when we reached the hallway.

My lips pulled into a small smile. "Oh, I know. It took me ages to come to terms with it."

Phil chuckled. "Not sure I have yet."

I giggled. "Yes, you have. You've dealt with just as much shit as I have. Not much phases you anymore."

He tilted his head toward me after pressing a button when we got on the elevator.

"You'd be surprised, Knox. I'm just better at hiding it." He gave me a grin.

"I bet. I suppose you'd have to be becoming Director," I conceded. "When was the last time you spoke to Fury?"

"Not many even know he's still alive." was his non-response.

"He always told me that the Coulson siblings were two of his greatest assets," I said, glancing at Phil.

"I always thought it was Captain America and the Avengers," Phil said.

My gaze snapped to his. "Idiot. And yet, who did he leave in charge? He left you in charge of everything that he helped build. He believed in you. Not Steve Rogers, not Tony Stark."

Phil let out a choked laugh at the mention of Tony's name. I couldn't help but snicker.

"Statement stands. He knew you were the best choice," I smiled fondly at my brother. "I, for one, would have to agree with him."

He blushed. "And what about you?"

"I'm the dark side of the coin," I shrugged. "I go after everything you guys don't and keep everyone in the dark about it. Until now, it seems."

Phil reached out to touch my arm. "You're a light in the dark, Knox. Not the dark."

I didn't get to answer back as the elevator opened, and he stepped off. I followed behind him, trying to figure out what he meant. I followed him down a long corridor in silence. At the end of the hall, there were two doors. He placed his hand on what looked like a metal plate, and it buzzed.

"Biometrics," he grinned. "Mine is to the left of you. This one is yours. I tried cleaning it up when you said you were coming. It's collected alot of dust, sadly waiting for you."

I frowned at him. "Waiting for me? What do you mean?" I walked past him into the room.

"This was always meant to be your set of rooms in the compound. No one has ever set foot in here but me and maybe Fury when he originally ordered it," Phil explained.

I gawked at him as I stepped further into the spacious room. It was a sitting room, bathroom, and bedroom.

"But, but why?" I stuttered.

"His best assets, remember?" Phil smirked.

I heard a sorrowful meow and looked down to find a cat winding its way through my legs.

"Is that who I think it is?" I gulped.

Phil chuckled. "Ya, that's Goose. I think she's giving her stamp of approval."

I snorted and crouched down. "It's been some years since I last saw you, Goose. How you been?"

I reached a hand out but didn't touch. I knew better. Goose could take down this entire base without a second thought. I figured I was safer just waiting for her, not making the assumption by petting her. She purred and bumped her head under my hand, giving me permission to pet her.

Phil laughed. "Why does it not surprise me that she likes you?"

I grinned up at him. "Kindred spirits, I guess." I gave Goose one last pat before standing up.