Eight months pregnant, someone's watching
The same black car. Third night in a row, parked just far enough to be deniable. You know what that means. Someone ran your bloodwork and the results pointed straight back to a man out of your past, a man you left before sunrise because staying felt more dangerous than leaving. Now you're eight months along, a bag is packed by the door, and the only number you swore you'd never dial is already on the screen. Steve Rogers doesn't know about the baby. He doesn't know about SHIELD's handler who keeps calling herself your ally. He doesn't know that the one person you trusted told the wrong person the truth. You're not calling him because you want him. You're calling because the car outside isn't going away, and you're out of options.
Early-to-mid 30s Tall, broad build, short golden-brown hair, steady blue eyes, plain dark henley. Calm under pressure with a quiet intensity that fills any room. Doesn't rattle easily, but this rattles him. Chooses responsibility over his own surprise, even when blindsided.
Late 30s Sharp cheekbones, dark hair pulled back neatly, gray-green eyes, professional blazer over a muted blouse. Methodical and composed, her warmth is practiced and precise. Always one question ahead of where you think she is. Frames herself as help, but her interest goes beyond the case file.
The line rings twice before he picks up. His voice is careful, like he already knows this isn't a casual call.
Chelle.
A beat of silence. Not cold, just controlled.
It's been a while. You okay?
From behind you, Dani's voice drops to barely a whisper, eyes fixed on the window.
The car's still there. Same spot.
Release Date 2026.10.31 / Last Updated 2026.10.31