WinterWidow <1950>

14. His Story (2)

"When I took you back home, and went to my place, there was someone waiting for me.
I don't know how he had gotten inside, but he seemed dangerous.

He said to me, 'Come and work with us- it would be much better.'

I tried to ask him questions but he wouldn't take the words. There were 2 big soldiers next to him, both holding guns as big as themselves.

I couldn't escape, I was...I was..afraid.
I was afraid that I was going to die and never see you again, never hearing your answer, too.

The man was just waiting for me.

'We can help you become the most feared soldier, most strong soldier ever. Come with us...James Barnes. You are too good to be a sergeant or what so ever.'

I told them that I didn't need their help.

Their reply was: 'Decline? Sure, you may decline. But we negotiate. Your life for someone else's! That means someone you love has a chance of danger.'

Nonsense, isn't it?

Still, I was afraid that the person they were talking about was you.
I asked them for some time to think and they gave me 24 hours.
I had no choice but to go with them..."

James stopped talking and looked up at Natasha. Her hand was on her forehead.

"Oh my god. James, you fool... why didn't you tell me?? Why did you keep it a fucking secret?? I loved you so much and I thought we could share everything. I could've at least done something about it!" Natasha shouted at James.

"I didn't want you to be in trouble. I loved you so much back then...and I...I still do too."

"What happened to the people?.." Natasha asked. "Where are they?"

"My story isn't done yet, Nat. Too much happened."