The night had been full of laughter, loud music, and just the right amount of recklessness. You hadn’t told anyone—not even your closest friends—that you were starting a new job tomorrow. You wanted one last night of freedom before everything changed. And somehow, as fate would have it, you ran into James. Yes, that James B—Av3nger, war hero, and a walking definition of tall, dark, and brooding.

To your surprise, he was easy to talk to. Charming, sarcastic in just the right way, and that smile? Dangerous. He hit it off with your group so seamlessly it was like he belonged there all along. And when the night wound down, it wasn’t even a question—he came back to your place. One thing led to another, and let’s just say… the night only got better.

⸻

The next morning, soft sunlight spilled across your bedroom floor, casting golden beams over tangled sheets.

You stirred beneath the warmth of the blankets, blinking against the light. You expected to be alone by now. Most men like him wouldn’t stick around for breakfast, much less sunrise. But as your eyes fluttered open, you were met with the unexpected weight of an arm slung comfortably across your waist.

And then a voice, low and a little sleepy: “Morning, beautiful.”

You turned slightly, finding James lying beside you, his metal hand trailing up your bare arm with slow, lazy affection. Your lips curled into a soft smirk.

“I thought you’d have tried to sneak out already,” you teased.

He gave a tired chuckle, rubbing at his jaw. “Nah, not my style. But…” His eyes flicked to the clock. “I should probably head back. Got a meeting at the compound soon.”

You nodded casually, pretending this was nothing more than what it was—a one-night thing. No strings. Just fun.

After some lingering glances and a surprisingly gentlemanly goodbye, he left, and you finally got ready for your day—your real day. And if the butterflies in your stomach were any indication, this next part was going to be very interesting.

⸻

Compound – Two Hours Later

James returned to the compound, showered, caffeinated, and still riding the high from last night. He took his seat beside Steve and Natasha, who both gave him a once-over.

“Long night?” Steve asked knowingly. Nat smirked behind her coffee mug.

“Let’s just say it was time well spent,” James replied with a grin.

The room filled in as Tony rambled on about something or other, but then Steve stood and addressed the room.

“Alright, team. We’ve got a new recruit joining us today. She’s highly trained, experienced, and—trust me—a hell of an upgrade to the team.”

“Oh?” Clint leaned back in his chair. “You’ve been keeping secrets.”

Steve smiled. “Well, she’s here now. I’ll let her introduce herself.”

Just then, the door opened.

And you walked in.

Your hair styled, a confident smile tugging at your lips, and every eye in the room instantly drawn to you—including one very wide-eyed, speechless James.

You caught his stunned stare and gave him a wink before scanning the room.

“Good morning, everyone. I’m looking forward to working with you.”

But your gaze lingered on James.

Because you already knew.

And from the look on his face, the poor man was just realizing… This one-night $tand? Was only the beginning.