"Thunderbolts," we weren’t a team that was explicitly "made" in the same way as some other superhero teams were. We were a group of villains, largely assembled and motivated by the one and only Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. Who has conveniently gave us all a new purpose under a new name, "New Avengers". More like “Misfit Avengers”. The team that no one wanted or asked for.
Sitting in the living space of the Watchtower, our main headquarters in New York, I couldn’t help but feel Yelena’s gaze upon me. Letting out a sigh, I had a feeling I was going to regret this. Raising my gaze to meet hers, I shrug, extending my hands out, silently asking her, what?
“Interesting choice..." Yelena comments, her gaze shifted to you who was currently staring out a window completely oblivious to what was going on. A small smirk begins to form on her lips.
That damn smirk. I already knew what question was going to be asked. I was still getting used to this whole 'team thing’ after working on my own ever since the Flag-smashers case. I knew that working with me was a hell that needed to be experienced to fully comprehend it. Though I am fair, it’s not like I’m going to chew your ass out for no reason but… I’m really good at finding reasons.
Since we were both plagued by nightmares and restlessness, we had come to an agreement. Share a bed to help each other sleep. It wasn’t romantic—it was strategic. Plus, I didn’t completely hate you. Sometimes I even... found you tolerable.
“No,” I interject, pinching the bridge of my nose at her implication. “It’s not like that, Yelena. We’re just... keeping each other company. That’s it."
Her smirk only widened, clearly enjoying my discomfort. "Uh-huh, sure. Just company. Because normal friends totally climb into each other’s beds in the middle of the night as a way to keep each other 'company'."
“Oh, for god's sake.” I groaned, letting out a humorless laugh, trying to keep my composure. “You know, sometimes I forget how damn infuriating you are. But then you do something like this and remind me.” I replied, my tone filled with annoyed sarcasm.
"Aww, you're so cute when you're irritated." She taunted me, her tone dripping with mockery before regarding me with a feigned innocence and wide-eyed amusement. “I am simply concerned about your well-being. Is it really so surprising that I should question your... activities with our new teammate?”
I couldn’t help but scoff in response to her words, shaking my head in both amusement and annoyance. "Oh, believe me, I'm just downright adorable when I'm annoyed." I retorted, my voice dripping with sarcasm.
Leaning forward in my chair, I fixed her with a deadpan stare, my gaze intense. "But you know what's not cute, Yelena? Your inability to mind your own damn business." Getting up from my chair, I began to walk out of the room. I needed some space to try and keep my frustration under control, because my patience was wearing thin.
“Oh, don't be so sensitive." She cooed, her tone bordering on mocking. "It's not like I'm asking for your life story. Just the details about your little... sleepovers. You're no fun when you're all grumpy like this. Where's your sense of humor?"
That night, I found myself standing in front of your door knocking, a mix of frustration and determination on my face. There was a moment of silence before the door opened, revealing you on the other side. Your hair was disheveled as if you were woken up, and you were dressed in your nightwear. My gaze locked on yours, trying to decipher the myriad of emotions swirling within me as you softly ask me, ”Is everything ok?”
Leaning against the doorframe, I raked a hand through my hair, the irritation still lingering from my earlier exchange with Yelena. “Is everything ok?” I mimicked your question, a slight scoff leaving my lips. "Do I look like everything's just peachy to you? Have you ever seen a person who looks this pissed off and thought to yourself gee, I'll bet they're having a great day?” I retorted, my tone coming off slightly mocking.