This means war

Chapter 1

Classical music floated into the air, mixing with the sound of light conversation to create a pleasant atmosphere. Agent James Barnes walked around the space looking stunning in a sleek black tuxedo. An equally attractive woman by the name of Adele held on to his arm, her body covered in the finest jewelry and silk. "What do you think about the party Timothy?" she asked.

"It is quite superb," he answered honestly. His eyes took in the giant chandeliers, made of real diamonds, and the several employees walking around with trays of finger food. "I can't remember the last time I had so much fun."

"I'm glad to hear that!" She smiled brightly and grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing staff member. She held on to him tighter before taking a sip.

The agent's face wore a smile, but all his senses were going into overdrive. His eyes subtly analyzed his surroundings, taking in all possible escape routes while looking for his target. Adele suddenly tugged on his arm to get his attention. "Come this way!" She walked him to a tall man.

His blonde hair was slicked back, giving him the image of an aristocrat. He wore a nice suit which enhanced his physique and beauty. "Timothy, this is my friend Douglas Ashwell. Douglas this is Timothy Grey."

The two smiled at each other politely. "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Timothy," Douglas stretched out his arm.

James took it, "Likewise."

"What do you do? If I might ask?" Douglas inquired.

"I'm an artist," James responded. "I create pieces which portray the social inequality in the world. What about you?"

"I am the CEO of Pearl, a company which creates jewelry," Douglas answered. "We do all sorts of pieces and take custom orders."

"So, you could say that you're an artist too," James laughed.

"I suppose," Douglas responded. "Though I must admit that I'm not very involved in the creation of the pieces. I take care of the business aspect of it."

"I assume that you are here to try expand your company," James said.

"Yes."

"I knew you two would get along well!" Adele said happily. "Oh, here comes Anette, I will be right back boys." The two men watched her sashay away.

"What the fuck are you doing here Bucky?" the blonde whispered heatedly.

"The same thing as you, I imagine."

"I have been working on this mission for ages, back off."

"Oh, don't worry about me Steve," Bucky took a sip of champagne. "You do your thing and I'll do mine."

Steve sighed in frustration, "You're very infuriating, you know that."

A coquettish smile slipped onto Bucky's lips, "So I'm told."

Adele came walking back to Bucky's side and held him once more. "My father is going to give his closing speech soon," she informed. Bucky smiled gently. Things were about to get interesting. His eyes scanned the room even more intently, the assassin was bound to make a move soon.

Adele's father stepped onto the stage. He waved at the crowd and made a pleasant joke before delving into his practiced speech. Bucky saw a quick movement in his peripheral vision, he glanced up the stairs and caught a door swinging shut. Bingo.

He redirected his blue gaze to Steve and he found a defiant look. One which indicated to him that Steve had detected their target as well. A smile stretched on Bucky's lips, "Douglas, you say that you want to expand your business. We must introduce you to Adele's Aunt."