The Pasts

Chapter 4**

The next evening, a thunderstorm rages outside, the sound of rain pounding against the windows accompanied by the occasional rumble of thunder. The living room is lit with a warm, gentle glow from the lamps, casting a comfortable ambiance as you and Natasha sit at the table, a Monopoly board spread out between you.

"You know," Natasha says, her voice playful, "I'm not going to go easy on you just because you're cute."

You smirk, rolling the dice. "I wouldn't have it any other way. Prepare to lose, Romanoff."

Natasha laughs, the sound rich and carefree. "We'll see about that. Don't underestimate me."

The game progresses with light hearted competition, each of you trying to outwit the other. Natasha's strategic mind quickly becomes apparent, and you find yourself both impressed and determined to keep up.

"Are you sure you haven't been secretly practicing?" you tease as she expertly maneuvers her game pieces.

"Maybe I have," she replies with a mischievous grin, her eyes sparkling. "Or maybe I'm just naturally good at everything."

You roll your eyes playfully. "Oh, the modesty."

"Hey, I'm just being honest," she retorts, sticking out her tongue.

"Keep that up and you'll be paying rent with kisses," you quip back, your tone flirtatious.

Natasha raises an eyebrow. "Is that a promise or a threat?"

"Depends," you say, leaning closer. "How badly do you want to win?"

Her eyes narrow playfully. "I think I'd rather just make you squirm."

"Oh, is that how it is?" you challenge, feeling your heart race with the playful tension.

As the game continues, the playful banter flows easily, filled with laughter and teasing remarks. The thunder outside booms, but it only adds to the cozy, intimate atmosphere inside.

Natasha lands on your property with a hotel, and you can't help but grin triumphantly. "Looks like you owe me, Ms. Romanoff."

She groans dramatically, reaching for her M
monopoly money. "Alright, alright. How much do I owe you this time?"

You lean in closer, a teasing glint in your eye. "How about a kiss instead?"

Natasha raises an eyebrow, her playful smirk returning. "Is that how we're playing this game now?"

"Maybe," you reply, your heart fluttering as you lean in.

She closes the distance, her lips meeting yours in a soft, lingering kiss. When you pull back, her eyes are filled with warmth and affection. "Best payment I've ever made," she murmurs.

You laugh, feeling a sense of contentment wash over you. "Agreed."

The game continues, with the thunderstorm outside providing a dramatic backdrop to your playful evening. Each roll of the dice and strategic move is accompanied by laughter and flirtatious banter.

As you move your game piece, Natasha eyes you with a playful glint. "You know, if you keep winning, I might have to come up with more creative ways to pay you back."

You smirk, pretending to ponder her words. "Oh, I think I could come up with a few ideas."

She leans in, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper. "Care to share?"

You feel a shiver of excitement run down your spine as you meet her gaze. "Well, I think another kiss for each property sounds fair."

Natasha laughs softly, her breath warm against your cheek. "Deal."