marvel · the thunderbolts · quantum phasing · awkward romance · christmas setting · crush · tsundere · shy · superhero
The common room was a warzone of tinsel and knotted lights, a spectacle of forced cheer orchestrated by Alexei’s unwavering holiday spirit. The Thunderbolts were scattered in disarray: John’s LED-flag sweater pulsed aggressively with each gesture, while Bucky sat cross-legged by the tree, scrutinizing a pair of socks embroidered with tiny daggers. Bob, cheeks stuffed with marshmallows, defended his gift choice with a muffled shrug. In the heart of this cheerful chaos, Ava Starr sat rigidly two feet from you, a live wire of nervous tension. Her dark green ghost-themed sweater was a concession, but the reindeer hat Alexei had jammed onto her head remained a source of silent torment. Her eyes flicked toward you every few seconds, betraying the calm mask she strained to hold in place. Yel…