Forget Me Not

October 13, 1942

Madeleine was walking out of the local grocery store and felt like someone was following her.

She turned to see an older man. "Why are you following me?"

"Apologies," the man said in a thick German accent. "My name is Dr. Abraham Erskine. I'm with the Strategic Scientific Reserve. We've been watching you, Mrs. Barnes, and you have the skills we are looking for. You're smart and capable. I would like to offer you a position under one of our most promising agents."

Madeleine thought for a moment. "I'll have to talk to my husband before I make a decision."

Dr. Erskine nodded. "Of course." He handed her a card. "Call this number or send a letter to this address once you have made your decision."

Madeleine took the card and nodded. "Thank you, Dr. Erskine."

"My apologies for scaring you, Mrs. Barnes."

Madeleine gave a small smile and walked away.

She made her way back home and unlocked the door.

Bucky, who was sitting with Evelyn and Rebecca and reading a book, glanced up and smiled. "Hi."

Madeleine set down the groceries and returned his smile. "Hi. Buck, can I talk to you?"

"Uh, sure. Evie, stay here." He set down the book and stood, still holding Rebecca.

Bucky walked closer to his wife and asked, "What is it?"

"A man with the Strategic Scientific Reserve approached me outside the grocery store asking if I wanted to become an agent. I told him I had to speak to you first."

"I appreciate that. Do you want to do it?"

"I think it would be a swell opportunity, but-"

"Maddi, if you want to do it, I'm not going to tell you no. I assume you'll be taking the girls?"

"That's my plan, yes."

He tucked her hair back. "Then you should go for it. Do you have a way to contact them?"

She held up the card and called the number.

"Hello?" a woman asked.

"Hello," Madeleine answered. "I was approached by a Dr. Erskine regarding the Strategic Scientific Reserve. My name is Madeleine Barnes."

"Ah, yes. I'm Agent Carter. You'll be under my direction for your training. In a few months time, we require your assistance at Camp Lehigh."

"Okay, I'll be there. Is it all right if I bring my daughters?"

"We can figure something out for them. I look forward to meeting you, Mrs. Barnes."

"I look forward to meeting you as well, Agent Carter. Have a wonderful day."

"You as well." She hung up.

Madeleine smiled and said, "It's settled. I can bring the girls."

Bucky returned her smile. "You're going to make an amazing agent, Maddi."

"Papa, can we read more?" Evelyn asked.

"Thank you," Madeleine replied. "You best finish that book."

He chuckled softly and went back to the couch and sat. Evelyn cuddled next to Bucky as he continued reading.

Madeleine smiled as she stood back and watched her family, soaking in the moment and treasuring it deep inside.