Misunderstanding.

Part 10

Tony deactivated his suit, stepping back. "Alright, lawyer-vigilante, you can get off now."

Matt stood, brushing himself off. "Thanks for the assist, Stark."

"Don't get used to it," Tony grumbled, though there was a hint of grudging respect in his voice.

Steve helps you to stand, holding your hands gently.

Matt, with a warm smile on his face, takes a step closer to you, wrapping his arms around you in a comforting embrace. "I know we met under less than ideal circumstances, but I'm grateful we did."

He pulls away slightly, his hands still resting lightly on your shoulders. "I want you to know, Y/n, that you've got a friend in me. If you ever need anything, I've got your back, alright?" Matt's sincerity shines through his eyes, and you can't help but smile back at him.

"I'm glad, we met Matt. Thank you."

Natasha walks over and joins the conversation with a mischievous grin. "You better take Matt's offer seriously, Y/n. He's a tough guy to shake off."

Matt shoots her a knowing look. "Hey, I'm just being supportive."

Natasha laughs, "Sure you are. Just don't go getting too attached to my friend here, alright?" Matt smiles, "No promises, Nat."

As their banter continues, a soft smile crosses your face, grateful for their newfound companionship.

As you and Natasha get busy with Tony, Matt turns his attention to Steve, his expression serious. "Steve, listen to me. You've got a good woman in Y/n."

He pauses for a moment, making sure Steve is listening. "Don't take love for granted, especially not with her. I'm blind, but I can sense the look in her eyes. She truly loves you, and you'd be a damn fool to let her slip through your fingers."

Steve meets Matt's gaze, his expression sobering. "I hear you, Matt. I don't intend to lose her and I'm sorry for doubting you." Matt smiles, silently telling him it's okay.

Then Matt turns to you, his voice laced with sincerity. "Take care of yourself, Y/n. And if Steve gives you any trouble, don't hesitate to tell me. I'll set him straight."

You can't help but smile at Matt's protectiveness. "I appreciate the concern, Matt, but I'm pretty tough."

Matt laughs, shaking his head, "Oh, I have no doubt about that. Just let me know if you need backup, alright?"

"Will do, Matt. Thank you."

Matt claps Steve on the shoulder. "Steve, do right by her, alright?"

Steve nods, a grateful look in his eyes. "I will, Matt. I promise." "Good. I'm going to hold you to it."

Matt glances over at Tony, with a playful grin playing at his lips, "Hey man, care to give me a lift home?"

Tony raises an eyebrow, amused at Matt's request. "You know, I'm not your personal chauffeur." Matt laughs is undeterred, "But I've got a great reason for you to make an exception."

Curious, Tony asks "and...what the reason might be?"

"There's this amazing Chinese place a few blocks away from my apartment...and they've got these dumplings..." "YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!!!!"

Later that day,

The air in the apartment hung heavy with unspoken apologies. Steve stood by the window, the cityscape bathed in the cool glow of dusk, but his gaze was inward. You sat on the couch, clutching a mug of tea that had long grown cold. The past day's events echoed in your mind, the accusation, the hurt, the icy silence.