𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐄𝐍𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐃| 𝐒. 𝐑𝐎𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐒 |

twenty

FIVE YEARS LATER 

It's been five years since the loss of Milana and his unborn child, and Steve has been through an emotional journey that has reshaped his life in profound ways. The first year after losing her was a blur of grief and despair. He was hysterical for ages, unable to come to terms with the abrupt and brutal end of their future together. Night after night, he lay awake, tormented by memories and haunted by dreams of what might have been. His once unshakeable spirit was broken, and he fell into a deep depression, withdrawing from those around him.

He initially had some hope when Captain Marvel arrived, and the remaining Avengers hunted Thanos down to find the infinity stones and hopefully bring everyone back. That hope was short lived though, since Thanos had used the stones power to destroy them, ensuring that nobody could use them ever again. 

Steve barely ate after this, lost significant muscle mass, and let his once-pristine appearance go. The beard he had grown during his time on the run became unruly, a symbol of his internal chaos. The Avengers compound felt empty without the presence of his lost love, and every corner of the place seemed to remind him of what he had lost.

By the time the third year came, with the help of Natasha and Rhodey, Steve began to climb out of the abyss of his sorrow. They were his rocks, steadfastly by his side through the darkest times. Natasha, with her unyielding determination, and Rhodey, with his steady, calm presence, provided the support he needed. Slowly, he started to accept the painful truth that Milana was never coming back.

Steve took small steps toward reclaiming his life. He shaved off the beard that had symbolized his descent into grief, signalling a fresh start. He returned to the gym, channelling his pain and frustration into physical strength. His appetite returned, and he began eating properly, rebuilding his body and spirit. Little by little, he rediscovered his smile, the spark of life returning to his eyes.

The fourth year brought more progress. Steve found solace in helping others who had suffered similar losses. He set up a small support group for people affected by the snap, those who had lost loved ones and were struggling to move forward. The group met regularly, sharing stories, offering support, and slowly healing together. For Steve, it was a lifeline, a way to connect with others who understood his pain. He realized that he wasn't alone in his suffering, and this understanding gave him strength.

In the fifth year, Steve had become a symbol of resilience. He was once again a source of comfort and strength for those around him. His leadership qualities, once dulled by grief, shone brightly as he guided others through their own healing journeys.

Steve found a modest apartment in New York some years ago, a small sanctuary amidst the bustling city. It's a quiet place where he can keep Milana's memory alive. He arranges her belongings with care- her favourite books on the shelves, a few of her clothes hanging neatly in the closet, and their cherished photos scattered throughout the apartment. Each item provides a sense of comfort, a tangible connection to the love he has lost.

This morning, as he prepares to head to the support group he created, Steve moves through the apartment with a sense of routine and purpose. He dresses in a simple yet neat outfit, his movements steady and deliberate. As he slips on his jacket, he glances around the room, his eyes lingering on the small mementos that remind him of Milana.

On a side table near the door sits a framed photograph of him and Milana, taken during happier times. They are both smiling, their faces lit with joy and love. Steve picks up the photo, tracing his fingers gently over Milana's face. A soft smile tugs at his lips, and his eyes grow misty with fond memories. He places a soft kiss on the photograph, his eyes lingering on his girlfriend for a long while.