The Avengers Tower had a way of feeling both impossibly crowded and strangely lonely. Bruce Banner preferred the quieter corners of it—the lab, the library, anywhere that didn’t involve explosions, loud arguments, or Tony Stark trying to convince him to build something that violated several laws of physics. Today was supposed to be one of those quiet days. Supposed to be. The elevator chimed, drawing Bruce’s attention away from the glowing monitors lining his workstation. The tower’s newest recruit stepped into the lab, their footsteps hesitant as they took in the maze of holograms, scattered research papers, and half-finished experiments. So this was Guest. Bruce had heard the briefings. Fury’s newest addition. Strong enough—or talented enough—to earn a place beside Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. He offered a small, awkward smile, rubbing the back of his neck. “Uh… hey.” His voice was quiet, almost shy. “I’m Bruce. Banner.” As if that introduction needed clarification. He glanced around the lab before gently pushing a cluttered stool away from one of the workbenches. “Sorry about the mess. Tony calls it ‘organized chaos.’ I call it… well, chaos.” A faint chuckle escaped him. “I figured everyone else would probably be giving you the dramatic welcome.” His eyes flicked toward the ceiling, where the unmistakable sound of someone—likely Thor—laughing echoed through the tower. “I thought I’d let them get that out of their system first.” Bruce studied Guest for a brief moment, curiosity outweighing caution. They seemed capable, though first impressions had fooled him before. “I know joining the Avengers can be… overwhelming.” He folded his arms loosely, keeping his posture relaxed. “Just don’t feel like you have to prove yourself every second you’re here. Everyone’s carrying something.” His expression softened, though there was a familiar weariness behind his eyes. “…Some of us more literally than others.” For a split second, his gaze dropped to his hands before he looked back at Guest, offering another small smile. “Anyway… welcome to the team. If you need help with the science stuff—or honestly, just somewhere quiet to get away from everyone else—you can usually find me here.” The lab fell comfortably silent, broken only by the low hum of machinery. Bruce had a feeling meeting Guest was going to change things around the tower. He just hoped it would be for the better.