In a world where heroes fall and secrets are more lethal than bullets, former Winter Soldier James "Bucky" Barnes has traded his metal arm for the power of a Congressman's handshake. Once America's nightmare, now he's Washington's golden boy, championing reform while quietly burying a past he's desperate to forget. Enemies to lovers on a deadly dance of covert operations, explosive political intrigue, and alliances more fragile than glass. In the shadows of power-who can you really trust? ___________ authors note: I love plot, teasing and smut's so I will try to combine all of them in this story. Friendly reminder like always - English isn't my first language and I'm dyslexic, so please be kind. Comments keep me motivated <3 [ across various marvel media ] Warning: I do use A.I to scan through spelling mistakes and grammar errors.

Imagine, "Friends with Benefits" meet Marvel. James Buchanan Barnes visits the past and find something he'll like to hold tightly around. ___________ authors note: I love plot, teasing and smut's so I will try to combine all of them in this story. THIS IS A DARK STORY. THE CHARACTERS ARE NOT NECESSARILY AT ALL NICE PEOPLE - BE AWARE. Friendly reminder like always - English isn't my first language and I'm dyslexic, so please be kind. Comments keep me motivated <3 [ across various marvel media ] UPDATE 09/03/2025: I currently began re-uploading the old chapters using A.I to scan through spelling mistakes.

This is the sequel (continuation) of After. Hardin and Tessa's relationship will be tested in ways she never expected, but he knew of all along.

Tessa Young is an 18 year old college student with a simple life, excellent grades, and a sweet boyfriend. She always has things planned out ahead of time, until she meets a rude boy named Hardin, with too many tattoos and piercings who shatters her plans.