The Captain's Heart

Chapter 5

Steve walked next to Ava through the Louvre in complete awe. He never thought he would ever get the chance to visit.

Ava smiled as she watched Steve walk and admire the art. She would listen to him talk, and even though it wasn't her favorite subject, she enjoyed hearing the passion he had for the works.

The day was spent going through the museum and leaving only once for lunch before going back. There were many debates about what the two saw in certain pieces. Steve caught himself staring down at Ava a lot as she spoke. She captivated him in a way he had never been before.

~ That Evening ~

Steve followed Ava to their rooms. She handed him his key with a smile.

"Rest up, Cap. We have more to do tomorrow."

"I didn't bring clothes." Steve replied.

"Joy took care of it. I'll see you in the morning for breakfast." Ava replied, going into her room next to his.

Steve watched her close the door and then shook his head. This was going to be interesting.

~ Over the next six days ~

Ava showed Steve to all her favorite food and culture spots in Europe. At one point, she brought him to Greece and stopped in front of a temple.

"Where are we?" Steve asked curiously.

"The Temple of Hephaestus ." Ava replied before walking inside.

Steve walked next to her as he looked around. "Why this temple?" He asked curiously as Ava placed down a small set of charms made of various metals.

"Hephaesteus was the blacksmith of the Gods." Ava stated, looking at the statue. "When we were kids, Tony and I would build a tiny altar and give it offerings in hopes of blocking dad's work so that he would spend time with us."

"Did it work?"

"Sometimes. I've always found the thought of such a being who favored those who crafted comforting. I even got his symbol tattooed for the comfort." She looked up at Steve. "I wanted to show you this place before we headed back to the States."

Steve nodded and then looked up at the statue. "Thank you for sharing it with me."

~ Six Days Later in Las Vegas ~

Steve looked at the little chapel and then down at Ava. He couldn't deny he was falling fast for the woman who had been taking him all over the place.

"Let's get married."

Ava looked at Steve in shock. "What?!"

"There's something here between us. Let's get married and explore it. I learned a long time ago that you can't let things you want to slip away. You don't know what life is going to bring. So let's get married."

Ava looked at the chapel then at Steve. "Fuck it, let's do it."

"Language." Steve lightly scolded.

Ava laughed. "Oh Cap, my language is the least of your worries if you take me as your wife." She held her hand out. "Still wanna go for it?"

Steve chuckled taking her hand and pulling her inside.