"You know I love you, right?" James whispered.

Malone cuddled closer to him in the dark. "Of course, James. I love you too, you know."

His arms tightened around her. "I know."

They were silent for a while. "Stygia's still out there," Malone said. James frowned, "We don't know that, Mal."

Malone shook her head, "She is. I know she's still alive. Plus, there's still plenty of Hydra bases left."

"What are you suggesting?" James asked curiously.

"I think you know what I'm suggesting," Malone said quietly. "Do you think Steve would let us help?"

James smiled into the gloom of the room. The full moon left a silvery light in the room, staining the air just enough to see the shapes of the furniture.

"Yeah. I think he'd let us help."

Malone sighed, "It'll be hard. We might get hurt."

James's jaw clenched at the mere thought. Malone's frightened screams shot through his memory.

"I'll protect you," he said. Malone chuckled softly, "I know. And I'll protect you. That's what we do best."

She leaned over and pecked him on the lips. It was a short kiss, one that said they were comfortable with each other. One that promised many more, for many more years.

Malone curled her fingers around James's metal hand. It was cold. She pressed it too her chest, warming it with her body.

James wrapped his other arm around her, bringing her close to him.

"No matter what happens," he whispered, "I won't lose you again."

Malone tucked her head under his chin, breathing in his familiar scent.

"I trust you, James," Malone said.

His heart thumped loudly at her words.

"I trust you too."

A/N
HOLY FREAKING CRAP
I FINISHED IT
I
FINISHED
IT
WHAT THE HECK
THIS TOOK ME A YEAR TO DO
BUT I FINISHED IT

Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh I'm sorry the chapter was so short. And cutesy. AND LATE. THE UPDATE WAS LATE. (Really late) (two days late)

Holy frijoles. I made it. I published an entire fanfiction. I can't believe it.

I left the end open so potentially another book? Idk. Right now I'm gonna take a break.

Thank you all readers, silent and loud! Thank you for all the votes, comments, and adds to reading lists!! I love you all! (Yes you, back there, thinking that surely she doesn't mean me, I do mean you)

Thank. You. All.

(ohmygosh i did it)