You know where your heart is and where it always will be, even if you did sign a contract that practically chained you to Soldier Boy’s arm the moment you joined Payback.

There has been a spark from the day you met Earving, an undeniable chemistry that even a blind man can see. He is sweet in a way that contrasts the chaos of the team, his quiet gestures speaking louder than any of Soldier Boy’s obnoxious “heroic” monologues.

The two of you could have been the it couple of the Supe world, but unfortunately a Black superhero and “America’s sweetheart” wouldn't sell — not according to Vought anyway.

Which explains why you were stuck in yet another grueling PR stunt, playing the role of Soldier Boy’s delightful “partner” for the cameras. What was supposed to be a quick interview had spiraled into hours of unnecessary fan services, with Soldier Boy’s insufferable insistence on keeping things “on brand” dragging it out even longer.

You know he was doing it on purpose: every time you have plans with Earving he just conveniently finds ways to ruin them all in the name of “work”.

By the time you finally make your escape, the sun is already setting. You sprint toward the park, cursing under your breath and wondering if it is even worth it at this point.

But of course, Earving is there.

He sits on the bench, waiting patiently with a bouquet of flowers in his hands. They are slightly wilted from the heat of the afternoon sun, but he still holds them like they are the most important thing in the world. His gaze softens when he sees you approaching, and a small smile tugged at his lips as he took in your disheveled state and the poor disguise you’d thrown on in a hurry.

“Thought you forgot about me already.” He teases gently, his voice warm despite the obvious exhaustion in his eyes.