Framed

Unforeseen Tragedy

2016, Cathedral, London

In the heart of London, a majestic cathedral served as a sanctuary for mourners bidding farewell to a beloved figure. Among the pallbearers, Steve and Bucky shouldered the weight of the Union Jack-draped coffin, their expressions etched with sorrow. The altar, adorned with flickering candles and a framed portrait of Peggy Carter, stood as a solemn focal point amidst the congregation's collective grief.

As the priest delivered words of comfort, the choir's mournful hymn echoed through the sacred space, casting a melancholic pall over the proceedings. "And now, I would like to invite Sharon Carter to come up and say a few words," the priest announced, his voice reverberating through the sanctuary.

Approaching the podium, Sharon, known to Steve as his 'neighbour' from DC, began her tribute. "Margaret Carter was known to most as a founder of SHIELD... but I just knew her as Aunt Peggy," Sharon's voice remained steady despite the weight of emotion in the air.

Recalling Peggy's influence, Sharon shared a personal anecdote, revealing their familial connection. "She had a photograph in her office. Aunt Peggy standing next to JFK. As a kid, that was pretty cool. But it was a lot to live up to. Which is why I never told anyone we were related."

Peggy's wisdom echoed in Sharon's words, reminding Steve of her enduring legacy. "I asked her once how she managed to master diplomacy and espionage in a time when no one wanted to see a woman succeed at either. And she said compromise where you can. But where you can't, don't. Even if everyone is telling you that something wrong is something right. Even if the whole world is telling you to move... you must plant yourself like a tree, look them in the eye, and say 'No, you move.'"

In that sacred moment, amidst the solemnity of Peggy's farewell, Steve and Sharon shared the weight of her wisdom. As the choir's mournful melody filled the cathedral once more, they stood united in their commitment to honour Peggy's memory, one steadfast step at a time.

______________________

In the hallowed silence of the cathedral's aisle, Steve's voice pierced the stillness with a heartfelt confession. "When I came out of the ice, I thought everyone I had known was gone. Then I found out that she was alive. I was just lucky to have her," he confessed, his voice tinged with vulnerability.

Natasha listened intently, her expression a portrait of empathy as she absorbed Steve's words. Her presence offered a silent refuge amidst the storm of grief that engulfed him, a steady anchor in the tumultuous sea of emotions.

As their conversation shifted to the Accords, Natasha recounted the roster of signatories, her voice carrying the weight of uncertainty. "Tony, Rhodey, and Vision," she listed, her brow furrowing as she spoke.

Steve's curiosity sparked, prompting him to inquire further. "What about Clint?" he asked, a hint of nostalgia colouring his tone. A wistful smile graced Natasha's lips as she recalled their friend. "Says he's retired," she replied, her words laced with fond reminiscence.

Steve's gaze searched Natasha's face for answers, his uncertainty palpable in the air between them. "Wanda?" he questioned, his voice tinged with anticipation.

Natasha's response carried slight ambiguity, her gaze drifting momentarily before meeting Steve's with a sense of unresolved anticipation. "TBD. I'm off to Vienna for the signing of the Accords. There's plenty of room on the jet," she offered, her voice tinged with conviction.

Steve's sigh echoed through the cathedral's hallowed space, a testament to the gravity of his decision and the weight of the path ahead. Natasha's understanding was palpable, her presence a silent reassurance in his moment of vulnerability.