From the Multiverse with Mild Annoyance

Dark and Barren

Kate had woken ready to go the next morning. It was really like waking up on Christmas knowing she was going on a real life mission with her friends to try to save her fiancé's sister. It all seemed surreal and she was pretty sure Yelena would in fact kill her when everything was said and done. Did she feel guilty for withholding information? Yes. She had been having the worst heartburn every time a text from Yelena made her cellphone buzz. She had never felt that level of guilt. Kate would just have to find a way to make up for it and what is a better "I'm sorry" present than bringing her sister back to life. Orgasms were also an option. They always put the widow in a better mood. Okay, so there was a small possibility that she would die because it was an unknown situation but Wong was skilled. It's not like Kate was actively seeking a fight. It would be a quick and easy recovery if Natasha was in fact still on Vormir. It was a long shot but Kate was committed to finding her no matter how many universes she had to traverse. Maybe she should call Clint. He has been there. He could at least give her some tips. She didn't really want to call him though because he would try to talk her out of it or insist on coming or involving Maria and that is not what she wanted to do. She could do this on her own with the help of her friends and a supreme sorcerer.

"You okay?"

Kate was pulled from her thoughts and found herself in the stable, snuggled up against Bella. She must have fallen asleep at some point after waking up so early. Truthfully, she didn't even remember coming into the barn, "yup." She smiled at Avery. "Just a little cat nap or a horse nap I suppose. She's warm and very comfortable."

"All of your animals are sweethearts. Have you thought about getting cows? Did you know that they actually like to cuddle with humans? I think cows are underrated as emotional support animals because while that's not their main purpose they are tremendous listeners and snugglers," Avery didn't have to try and sell Kate on the cows that hard. She already had cows, chickens and possibly sheep on her farm bucket list but she wanted to wait for Yelena to get back before making the executive decisions on adding additional animals considering they would probably have to hire some help. There was also the possibility of the rescued American widows helping out. "Did I lose you again? The thought of snuggling a cow too much for you?"

Kate laughed, "no. Sorry I'm all over the place today. Have you given any thought to sticking around full time? You've been such a great help with the piglets and Melina needs help with the animals."

"I like it here," Avery started getting the supplements ready for the piglets. "I don't have anyone and it's been nice to feel needed."

"Any chance you want to come on a cross multiverse adventure? I've heard from Sonya that you've been showing an interesting training with the other widows."

Avery shook her head, "I don't think the black widow life is for me. I like to stay in shape but I definitely think I'm a behind the scenes animal life saver. Plus it seems like you are thinking about expanding your farm which means more animals to care for. Like you said, Melina will need some help and I desperately need a job."

"When we get back and Yelena comes home, we can talk about a salary of sorts if you decide you want to stay," Kate would love to have Avery as part of their team even if it was strictly for animal care. "Tell me about these supplements and what they do for the piglets. Also, when can I hold Oreo? I want to start bonding with him, especially since Yelena isn't here. I want him to imprint on me."

The vet laughed, "I would give it a few weeks unless you want Stella to kill you. Tell you what. You can help me give the supplements if you tell me more about this trip you are taking."

"Yeah about that," Kate grimaced, "if Yelena calls to check in on me, I'm going to need you to lie about where we are. I really hope that's not going to be a problem."