Natasha's entrance into Javier's orbit had been carefully calculated. She was a master of blending in, of becoming a part of her surroundings without drawing suspicion. But Javier Sánchez was not an ordinary man, and she felt his gaze lingering on her longer than she anticipated.
Javier's private gala was as grand as expected. The hall shimmered with gold and crystal, filled with diplomats, business magnates, and influential figures from across the globe. GRO Corporation's insignia was subtly placed throughout the venue, a reminder of the company's growing power.
---
S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Surveillance
From a hidden location nearby, S.H.I.E.L.D. agents monitored the event. Nick Fury, seated before a bank of monitors, watched as Natasha mingled with the guests. Beside him, Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter sat, their expressions a mixture of intrigue and concern.
"You really think this is the right play?" Steve asked, arms crossed. "Spying on someone like him?"
Peggy nodded. "We don't have much choice. Javier has lived through more history than most of us, and somehow, he's remained untouchable. That level of power without accountability? It's dangerous."
Nick Fury grunted. "We don't spy because we want to, Rogers. We spy because we need to. Javier's connections are too deep, his influence too wide. He's a walking question mark."
Steve frowned. "And if he catches onto Natasha?"
Fury's eye darkened. "Then we'll deal with it. One way or another."
---
The Public Reacts to Captain America and Javier
Outside the gala, the streets were alive with protests and celebrations. Captain America's return had ignited a fervor of patriotism, with banners and flags raised high. But the revelation of Javier Sánchez's continued youth sparked debates.
"How can he still be alive? He's older than Steve Rogers!"
"Maybe he's a hero like Cap," a supporter argued.
Another voice cut in, "Or maybe he's manipulating us all. No one should have that much power!"
---
Inside the Gala
Javier led Natasha to a quieter corner of the hall, offering her a glass of champagne. His smile was charming, but there was an undeniable sharpness behind it.
"You don't strike me as the type to attend events like this without a reason, Natasha," he said, swirling his drink. "What brings you to GRO's world?"
Natasha tilted her head, feigning curiosity. "You've built quite a reputation, Mr. Sánchez. Everyone wants to know what makes you tick. Consider me... curious."
Javier chuckled. "Curious? Or sent by a higher power?" His tone was teasing, but Natasha couldn't ignore the edge in his voice.
Before she could respond, Javier leaned closer, his voice lowering. "Tell Fury I appreciate the attention. But if he's worried about me, he should be looking elsewhere. I'm not the villain in this story."
Natasha's heart skipped a beat, but she kept her composure. "What makes you think Fury sent me?"
Javier smirked. "Because you're too smart to come here on your own. Don't worry, Natasha. I'm not offended. In fact, I'm flattered."
---
Back at S.H.I.E.L.D. Headquarters
Nick Fury slammed his hand on the desk as Natasha's report came through. "He knew?"
"He knew," Natasha confirmed, her voice steady. "He didn't seem angry. More... amused."
Peggy crossed her arms, her expression grim. "That's what makes him so dangerous. He's always ten steps ahead. If he knows we're watching, he'll use it to his advantage."
Steve frowned. "What's the next move, Fury? We can't just back off."
Nick Fury leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. "We wait. Javier's playing a game, and we need to figure out the rules. Until then, we keep our distance."
Captain Marvel, leaning against the wall, finally spoke. "You're all underestimating him. I've seen how the galaxy talks about Javier Sánchez. He's not just a businessman. He's a legend. If we don't tread carefully, we'll be the ones being controlled."
---
Javier's Perspective
Later that night, in his private quarters, Javier sat by a window overlooking the city. Sinthea joined him, a glass of wine in hand.
"They're scared of you," she said, her tone playful.
"They should be," Javier replied, his voice calm. "Fear keeps them from acting recklessly."
"And Natasha?" Sinthea smirked. "She's not bad for a spy."
Javier chuckled. "She's excellent. But even the best have their limits. Fury wants control, but he's forgetting one thing."
"What's that?" Sinthea asked.
Javier's gaze hardened. "You can't control what you don't understand."
The raven perched nearby cawed softly, as if in agreement.