𝐄𝐀𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐇 | 𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬¹

Embers of Laughter

It was exhilarating to be alongside T'Challa and Bucky, our laughter resonating like a melody against the backdrop of our adventures. I knew deep down that T'Challa would eventually have to return to Wakanda to reclaim his throne, to fulfill his duties as king. Yet, in that moment, surrounded by my friends, the weight of the world seemed lighter. The thrill of camaraderie was intoxicating; it felt like a dance of heroes, a fleeting escape from reality, but oh, what a glorious adventure it was to share these moments together!

I sunk into the soft embrace of the sofa, the cool, fruity blend of my smoothie refreshing against my lips as I recalled the delightful chaos of our day. Just then, Bucky ambled over, his presence warm and inviting. He settled himself beside me, resting his head gently on my lap, a contented smile lighting up his rugged features.

"I'm happy you're with me, Kira," he purred, his voice a low rumble that sent a comforting shiver down my spine. In that moment, the world outside faded away, and all that mattered was this small pocket of happiness we had created together. As I absentmindedly ran my fingers through his hair, I felt a deep sense of connection—one that was both thrilling and serene.

It was as if time stood still, and I couldn't help but wonder how I had been lucky enough to find myself in this adventure, surrounded by friends who felt like family.

Just as I was lost in the warmth of the moment, T'Challa emerged from the bathroom, a towel draped around his shoulders, and I couldn't help but smile at his effortless charm. I decided to slip away to the kitchen to whip up a little something to eat, knowing full well that Bucky wouldn't be letting go of his cozy spot anytime soon.

As I rummaged through the fridge, my phone chimed with an incoming call. Glancing at the screen, I saw Tony's name light up, and a slight grin crept across my face. Without waiting for him to dive into his usual barrage of questions, I answered, "Tones, don't worry, I'm fine."

I could practically hear his dramatic sigh from across the room, ready to launch into another of his infamous lectures about safety and the importance of keeping an eye on the Avengers. But I knew what he was really worried about. "I promise I haven't started a superhero brawl in the kitchen or anything," I added with a teasing lilt, hoping to ease his mind and maybe even bring a smile to his face. 

I could barely catch all of Tony's words as he spoke in his typical frantic manner, but the urgency in his voice was clear. "I know Kira, me and Steve will be back soon. Clint and Natasha are off to Wien to make sure no one really got hurt in that explosion and to find T'Caka's killer as well," he said, his tone shifting to a more serious one.

I nodded, even though he couldn't see me. "I understand, Tony. Just... be careful, okay? We can handle things here," I said, trying to reassure him and myself.

"Always," he replied, though I could hear the underlying concern in his voice. I could imagine him pacing back and forth, running through plans in his head. "Just don't let Bucky hog all the snacks while we're gone. You know how he gets."

I chuckled softly at that, glancing back at Bucky, who was still perfectly content on the sofa, occasionally peeking at me with those soulful eyes. "I'll make sure he shares," I promised, shaking my head at the sight of my favorite supersoldier lounging so comfortably.

"Good. I'll check in later," Tony said before hanging up, leaving me with a sense of lingering tension and concern for my friends. But for now, I just had to keep things grounded here while the others were out on their mission.

As I stepped out into the common room, I found Bucky and T'Challa engaged in a conversation that seemed tentative but genuine. There was still a hint of awkwardness hanging in the air, but the fact that they were finally talking was a significant step in the right direction.