BLACK & RED | NATASHA ROMANOFF X READER | MARVEL

11

The rest of the evening seemed to pass in a blur. I found myself glancing at the clock more often than usual, my thoughts drifting back to her and the unexpected invitation. I couldn't focus on anything else; every minute felt like an eternity as I imagined what the evening might hold.

I picked out my outfit: a simple yet flattering dress that struck a balance between casual and elegant. It was a deep shade of blue, complementing my complexion and making me feel confident. I paired it with a light jacket and some comfortable but stylish boots, aiming for an effortlessly put-together look. My heart raced as I checked my reflection, smoothing down my hair and adding a touch of makeup.

By the time eight o'clock rolled around, I was already waiting in the lobby, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nerves. I glanced around, trying to keep my composure as the minutes ticked by. As I waited, Bucky spotted me and walked over.

"You look nice," he observed, raising an eyebrow. "Why?"

"Gee, thanks," I giggled, trying to play it cool. "Nat and I are going out for drinks tonight."

"You and Widow are going on a date?" he snorted, clearly amused.

"No!" I gave his arm a playful punch, feeling my cheeks heat up. "As friends."

"Sure," he smirked mischievously, not buying it for a second.

"It's not a date!" I insisted, my face now beet red.

He leaned in and whispered conspiratorially, "I think someone has a crush."

"I do not!" I cleared my throat, trying to compose myself. "And you know, I can say the same about you and Sam." I pointed a finger at his chest, trying to deflect the attention.

Bucky chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Touché. But I think we both know you're deflecting."

Before I could respond, the elevator doors opened, and Natasha stepped out. My heart skipped a beat as she approached, her smile lighting up the room. She wore a fitted black leather jacket over a sleek red blouse that accentuated her figure, paired with dark jeans and ankle boots. Her hair, usually tied back in a practical braid, was loose tonight, cascading in soft, auburn waves around her shoulders. The minimal makeup she wore highlighted her striking green eyes, making them shimmer with a captivating intensity.

Bucky gave me a knowing look before stepping away.

I felt a little overdressed, but could you expect anything different from me?

"Hey," I greeted, trying to sound casual. "You look great." I couldn't help but eye her up and down, taking in every detail.

"As do you," she replied, shooting me a playful wink that forced me to look away, my cheeks warming under her gaze. "Come on, let's go. I have the perfect place for us."

We made our way to a cozy bar tucked away from the main streets, its dim lighting and soft music creating an intimate atmosphere. Natasha led the way to a secluded corner booth, and we settled in, the tension of our usual high-stakes environment melting away. The bar had a rustic charm, with exposed brick walls and vintage decor that made it feel welcoming and relaxed.

The bartender came to take our orders shortly after we sat down.

"What can I grab you beautiful girls on this fine night?" he asked, flashing a charming smile as he moved his blonde hair out of his face, revealing and complementing his bright blue eyes.

I glanced at Natasha, who gave the bartender a small, amused smile before turning to me. "What are you having?" she asked.

"I'll go with a whiskey sour," I replied, feeling a bit more adventurous than usual.