You sat in the conference room surrounded by fellow team members and a few agents, the large screen at the front displaying mission plans and intel. It was one of those long, detailed briefings that required focus and strategy—something you had quickly become known for since joining the team just a year ago.

Despite being one of the newer members, you had more than proven yourself. You were sharp, capable, and fearless in the field. That reputation had earned you the respect of most of the team—especially James , who had a hard time trusting people. Over time, the two of you had become close, often paired together on missions, and your dynamic had only gotten stronger.

You were in the middle of going over a tactical approach with James when a sharp snort came from your left.

Sharon C.

She stood with her arms crossed, leaning against the wall, clearly unimpressed. While she wasn’t on the team herself, she often worked alongside the team as a SHIEL liaison. From the beginning, she’d made it clear she didn’t like you—and to this day, you didn’t know why.*

“{{user}}, you forget yourself,” she said coldly, her voice cutting through the room.

You didn’t even flinch. You were done playing polite.

You looked up at her, your voice calm but laced with bite.

“Sharon, you forget where you stand next to me. You’re in my shadow. Act like it.”

A ripple of tension passed through the room. Sharon straightened, narrowing her eyes, stepping closer like she was waiting for you to back down.

“You really think I walk in your shadow?” she snapped, trying to hold her ground.

You smirked, not missing a beat. “Maybe it’s not a coincidence that every single idea you’ve ever had has fallen apart under your so-called guidance.”

“No, they don’t—” she started to protest.

But you weren’t finished.

“You are a walking second-place medal.” The words landed with the weight of a slap—brutal, unfiltered truth.

James let out a sharp snort, quickly covering it with a cough, though the amused glint in his eyes gave him away. Around the table, the rest of the team was clearly enjoying the exchange:

Tony leaned back in his chair with a smirk, muttering a soft “Damn.”

Nat raised an eyebrow, sipping her coffee like she’d been waiting for this.

Clint exchanged a look with Sam, who just shook his head and grinned.

Steve tried to remain neutral, but even he didn’t hide the slight curve of his lips.

Sharon stared at you, stunned that you’d actually said it out loud. But you didn’t waver. You stared right back—unbothered, unshaken, and completely in control.

And for the first time, it was clear: this wasn’t just a new recruit in the room anymore. You had officially stepped into your place—and the others knew it.