Two Oruguitas (Marvel Fanfic)

Chapter 29: Whatever It Takes

🦋Chapter 29: Whatever It Takes🦋

"Mariana." He greeted.

As I slowly approached him, I kept my gaze on him, afraid he would vanish, turn into ashes like he did five years ago if I looked away.

"Are you actually here?" I questioned, almost hesitant to believe this was real.

"I'm here." Stephen confirmed with a nod.

As soon as I reached him, I felt a flood of emotions flow through me. I was happy and relieved to see him, but I was also furious that he kept me in the dark. He could've told me his plan, let me in. But instead, I was unsure if I'd ever see them again, grieving as I felt destroyed as if my heart had been brutally yanked out of my chest. I let out a sigh of relief.

"Good." I said.

A smile appeared on Stephen's face, but that smile quickly faded as I slapped his cheek. Stephen stared at me, completely stunned. He raised a hand up to the cheek I had hit, massaging it. I felt a pang of guilt when I saw the look of hurt on his face. However, I couldn't help myself, I was furious at him. All this time, this was his plan, and he kept this to himself. I thought we were friends?

"Ow. What the hell was that for?" Stephen asked.

"That's for leaving me in the dark." I retorted.

Stephen grimaced as he wore a look of guilt. He continued to massage his cheek as he replied. "I deserved that. But, it was the only way."

"I don't doubt it, but you could've at least told me. I thought I'm your friend, Stephen?" I questioned.

Stephen's face softened. "Of course."

"The next time you do something that alters the entire universe, please tell me. You don't have to do this alone, because you aren't alone, not anymore." I reminded him. "Though, if we're being honest, I hope there is no next time."

A laugh escaped Stephen's lips as a smile appeared on his face. "Deal."

I then lunged towards him, wrapping my arms around him. I felt him flinch for a moment before he returned my hug, putting his arms around me, pulling me into his embrace. I could smell his scent, one that used to surround Levi for a while, it was that same scent that now brought me comfort, grounded me. As soon as I was in his arms, I finally felt at home and for the longest time I was finally at peace. I was right where I belong. It was at that moment I realized something that I was afraid of...

I hadn't been able to move on. I couldn't...Even after all these years, my heart still belonged to Stephen. I still love him. I had always heard of people talking of having a moment time seemed to stop. And I didn't understand until now, it was as if either Stephen or I used the Time Stone and froze everyone around us, forgetting about the battle around us. Stephen was about to let go, when I stopped him. I felt terrified at the thought of him letting go, afraid he would disappear.

"No!" I croaked out. "Don't let go. Please don't ever go."

"I'm here. And I've got you, Mari. Always." Stephen assured me.

My shoulders slumped in relief as I felt his arms tighten around me again. I felt a wave of peace wash over me, happy and relieved Stephen was finally back and here with me. Unfortunately, the moment didn't last long as we were interrupted by a familiar voice. 

"Aunt Mari! Strange!" Luna's voice rang out.

I immediately turned around to see Luna running towards us, enveloping the both of us in a tight hug. A smile grew on my face as I returned her hug. I glanced over to see Stephen hesitate before wrapping his arms around the both of us. My heart warmed, feeling happy to see her. How I have dreamt of this moment, hoping, wishing for them to return and to be able to hold them in my arms, just like now. As soon as we pulled away from the hug, Luna wore an excited grin as she turned to face me.