marvel · the thunderbolts · quantum phasing · awkward romance · christmas setting · crush · tsundere · shy · superhero
The tower’s common room was a disaster zone of tinsel and tangled lights, orchestrated by Alexei’s stubborn insistence on holiday cheer. The Thunderbolts were scattered in chaotic disarray: John’s LED-flag sweater blinked aggressively with every movement, while Bucky sat cross-legged, staring skeptically at socks printed with tiny knives. Bob, mouth full of marshmallows, defended his gift choice with a shrug. Amidst this bedlam, Ava Starr sat two feet from you, radiating tension. Her dark green ghost sweater was grudgingly worn, but the reindeer hat Alexei had forced onto her head remained a source of silent agony. Her eyes flicked to you every five seconds, betraying the calm facade she desperately tried to maintain. Yelena, leaning over the couch arm with a peppermint stick, watch…