An unconventional trio

"It's...it's just hot bean water!"

As the sunlight peeked through the windows, Bucky made his way downstairs to the kitchen, his stomach rumbling with anticipation for breakfast. Upon entering, he was greeted by the lively chatter of the group, most of whom had already gathered around the table. Sam and Clint were diligently working as breakfast chefs, while the others eagerly awaited their meal.

"Morning, Bucky!" Wanda exclaimed from her seat, her warm smile radiating across the room. Bucky couldn't help but return a smile as he approached the counter to brew a cup of coffee.

"Hey," Clint greeted him, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

"Hi," Bucky replied, pouring himself a cup.

"So...how was your cake?" Clint asked, his curiosity ignited after his encounter with Nova the previous day. Bucky hesitated momentarily, glancing at Clint with a hint of unease.

"Um..." he mumbled, his voice trailing off.

"Nova told me it was a peace offering," Clint chuckled. A light laugh escaped Bucky's lips.

"Oh," he said, "it was...it was good."With his coffee in hand, Bucky made his way to the table, taking his usual seat beside Steve.

As everyone settled into their seats at the table, Tony strolled in with his usual swagger. "Good morning, kids" he greeted, taking his place among them.

"Good morning, Charlie," Nat and Wanda chime in unisons, sharing a laugh.

Conversation flowed easily around the table as they discussed the day's training regimen and Tony's agenda. Across the table, Thor's booming voice cut through the chatter. "Good morning, brother," he greeted Loki as he entered, who returned the gesture with a nod.

Bucky's gaze landed on Loki, holding it for a moment before turning away without saying a word.

Just as the group was getting into the rhythm of the morning, Tony's inquiry interrupted the conversation. "Hey, has anyone seen Nova this morning? She's usually up by now."

"Not me," Nat replied, shaking her head.

"Me either," Sam added.

Bucky, taking a sip of his coffee, spoke nonchalantly. "She's probably still sleeping."

Tony's brow furrowed in concern. "Thats weird. She never sleeps this late."

Bucky felt a rush of satisfaction, suppressing a grin as memories from last night flooded his mind.

Bucky's POV:

Earlier this morning

In the soft glow of morning light filtering through the curtains, I stood by Nova's bedside, watching her peaceful form. She lay there, lost in the depths of sleep, undisturbed by the world around her. I had attempted to rouse her gently, but she remained blissfully unaware.

With a tender touch, I pulled the blankets up to her chin, ensuring she stayed warm and cozy. On the nightstand, I left a can of Redbull, along with a handwritten note.

"Good morning, little Gizmo. I tried to wake you but you are dead to the world right now. Here is your breakfast. Please wake up soon. -B"

Leaning down. I pressed a soft kiss to her cheek, lingering for a moment to savor the warmth of her skin before reluctantly pulling away. With a final glance, I silently wished her sweet dreams and turned to leave, making my way back to my own suite to prepare for the day ahead.

As I showered, thoughts swirled in my mind about where Nova stood on revealing anything about us to the group. Uncertainty gnawed at me, and I decided to err on the side of caution, keeping our...connection, private for now. Until I had a chance to discuss it with her.