Chapter Text
~Natasha~
The farmhouse back here was quiet. The portal closed with a high-pitched buzz. It was half a year before Natasha would see her family again. She allowed herself to crumple to the floor and wept.
Two hours later, Natasha was sitting against the cold tiled wall of the Bartons’ kitchen when her phone rang. It was Maria Hill.
‘Maria?’
‘Hey, Nat,’ came the Deputy Director’s voice from the other end of the line. ‘Coulson’s team brought someone from the past. We thought –’
‘Say that again?’ Maria had caught her attention. ‘The past?’
There was a short pause. ‘It’s a long story. We’ll explain when you get here.’
‘You’re assuming.’
‘I’ve gotten your attention, no?’ Natasha could hear her smile. ‘Anyway, we need you to come in. One guy’s Daniel Sousa – we all know who –’
‘The Daniel Sousa?’ Natasha was incredulous. ‘Who’s the other? Peggy Carter?’
Maria snorted. ‘I wish. But no. She’s Russian and uncooperative.’
‘You want me to come over because I’m Russian?’
Maria’s eye roll was virtually audible. ‘Chief Sousa said she was a pain to deal with and only Agent Carter ever managed to get her to speak. Apparently, she had multiple identities and was a really good secret operative. Hooked up with Stark’s father for a mission.’ Maria paused. ‘Ring any bells?’
‘The Red Room,’ Natasha grumbled. ‘On my way.’