Lost

16 Years Before

16 Years Ago:

“You understand the pressure you’re potentially putting yourselves and the whole corporation under?” The harsh voice hissed quietly to the couple in front of him. In the midst of the small office, the tension between the trio was hard to overlook. The couple stood firm, the woman taking hold of the man’s hand, a determined look coming over her features. 

“It is our choice Nick. This doesn’t concern you or anyone else in this blasted corporation.” She spoke sternly, her demeanour never faltering. 

“But a child?! Think of the danger it could be put in. Think of the danger it could put you in! I don’t much like the way you’re seeing this situation Maria.” Nick Fury commented disapprovingly. Maria stared hard at her boss, crossing her arms as she did so. 

“That makes two of us.” She shot back, the desire to use the taser that sat in her holster, forever increasing. The man, her husband, next to her, sighed and stepped forward. 

“Look Nick, we know you don’t like this but there’s nothing you can do. The tests came back positive and we have decided to go through with it and start a family. It’s done. The decision has been made.” He said, trying to diffuse the tension in the room. 

“I can’t just write off two of the best agents in this whole damn corporation!” Nick expressed, his voice exasperated and strained.  

“Well you don’t really have a choice. You either do that or I resign. Either way Nick I am having this child. The decision is yours.” Maria reasoned ruthlessly. Nick stared coldly at the pair, his one good eye examining the two of them. 

“You play a tough game Maria.” He said curtly. Moments passed as options were considered. Nick waved his hand at the couple in a defeated gesture, a sigh parting from his lips. “Fine, I’ll see that your contracts are frozen until you return to us, which you better. We can’t afford to lose two of our best agents for the means of a simple child.” Nick finally said, rubbing his temples with slender fingers. Maria huffed. 

“Flattery really doesn’t suit you Nick.” She cut in. The husband, an agent named Aiden, stepped in, cutting off Maria before she could say anything she might regret. 

“Thank you Nick. We appreciate it.” He nodded, smiling slightly. Nick nodded. 

“Don’t thank me yet. Thank me the day I save your sorry assess from the likes of HYDRA because that child of yours put you in the shit; because mark my words, if it’s anything like the pair of you, then it’s only a matter of time.” Nick replied, leaving the room; his parting comment leaving the couple silent as the door shut behind them.