His Protective Dad Completed ✓

Family Bonds Restored

It had been a long and exhausting ordeal, but now that Steve was back to himself, there was a collective sense of relief hanging in the air. The Avengers, the kids, and even the extended family members gathered around, absorbing the truth of what had just happened.

Tony, standing with his arms crossed, still looked skeptical, but the corners of his mouth twitched into a small smile as he glanced at Steve. His gaze softened. "I should've known. I just-" He shook his head. "You could've told me, you know?"

Steve, still chuckling, placed a hand on Tony's shoulder. "I didn't want to risk it, Tony. Hydra was monitoring everything, and I needed to keep them off guard. I'm sorry, I should have been more upfront."

"You always say that," Tony muttered, but there was no bite to his words. "Next time, just tell me. I don't care how dangerous it gets."

Morgan stepped between them, wrapping both of her parents in a hug, a quiet thank-you in her eyes. "It's over now," she said softly. "Let's just move forward."

Steve ruffled her hair gently, smiling down at her. "You're right, kiddo. And you did good. I was starting to think I'd lose you all. I'm proud of you."

The family seemed to exhale all at once, the tension of the last few days melting away. For once, the room was still, a peaceful quiet settling over them. But it didn't last long.

Suddenly, Peter's voice broke through the calm. "So, are we done with the dramatic superhero plots now, or is there more to come?"

Wade, who had been uncharacteristically silent up until now, grinned. "You know, I was kind of hoping for more explosions. We've been pretty short on those lately."

Everyone laughed, and the atmosphere lightened once again. Natasha, who had been watching closely, let out a soft chuckle. "You've all had enough of the drama for a while," she teased. "But I think we could all use a break. A vacation, maybe?"

Harley jumped in immediately, his eyes lighting up. "Yes! A trip! We've earned it, haven't we?"

Morgan nodded. "I vote for somewhere with no Hydra, no secret bases, and absolutely no more mind control."

"I'm in for that," Peter added, grinning. "Maybe a nice beach?"

"We could go to a tropical island," Steve suggested, throwing a playful look at Tony. "Get some real sun, no suits, no secret plans."

Tony smirked. "Now, that sounds more like a plan. Alright, alright, we'll go somewhere relaxing. I'm done with Hydra for the foreseeable future."

The room erupted in cheers, and everyone began to talk over each other about destinations and activities. The weight of the past days lifted from their shoulders, replaced with excitement for something simple: a chance to recharge, to reconnect as a family.

"Alright," Tony said, looking at Steve with a fond, teasing expression. "You know, you're still grounded for scaring us like that."

"Grounded?" Steve raised an eyebrow. "I'm not the one who almost got eaten by wild animals."

Morgan grinned. "You got what you deserved, Pops. Maybe we can make you wear a 'Captain Hydra' t-shirt on the trip."

Steve chuckled, shaking his head. "I'll take my chances."

---

Days later, the family began preparing for their much-needed vacation. Everyone packed their bags, making light of the past struggles, and the dynamic six-Peter, Morgan, Harley, Ned, Wade, and MJ-shared excited conversations about the fun they'd have. Tony and Steve exchanged looks of quiet understanding, their bond stronger than ever, knowing they had overcome yet another storm together.