Lessons in Stars and Stripes

14

Steve walked up to see Shelby getting ready to leave. "Hey, where are you going?"

She shook her head. "I can't be part of this, Steve."

"Shelby-"

"No. Steve, I'm a teacher. I'm not a superhero like you."

"I think you're pretty heroic in your own way."

"I appreciate that, but this isn't me. I've taken too much time already. I'm sorry, but I'm out of this."

"Shelby, it's okay. I get it. You need a ride back?"

"No, I'll take the subway."

"Let me take you."

"Steve, I appreciate the offer, but you're needed here. I'm not."

"Shelby, you are needed here. Without you-"

"I can't, Steve. I'm sorry. This life isn't for me. I got shot on one of your missions. I'm not meant for this." She hesitated and looked at him. "I understand if you think less of me for this."

Steve moved closer to her and took her face in his hands. "I could never think less of you, Shelby. I understand your fear and your worry. Go, be with your family."

"Are you sure?"

"Absolutely. I'll take you." He said to Sam, "I'll be back shortly."

Sam nodded. "You off, Shelby?"

"For now, yes," Shelby answered.

"It was great to meet you. I hope we see you again."

"Likewise." She waved and Sam waved back.

Steve and Shelby left and he drove them to Shelby's mom's.

Shelby knocked on the door and it opened. Jack ran up and held his arms up to his mother with a wide smile.

Shelby picked her son up. "Remember Steve?"

"'Teve?" Jack asked, staring at him nervously.

Steve smiled. "Hi, Jack."

Jack noticed the star and reached closer to trace it. "One, two, fee, fo, fife. Fife, Mama."

Shelby nodded. "That's right, honey. Five."

"See gen?"

Steve nodded. "I'm sure I'll see you again."

"Mama too?"

"If she'll let me."

Shelby smiled, pressing a kiss to his cheek. "Yes she will. Good luck, Steve. Come back to us. I can't lose someone else I care about and Jack can't lose someone who's starting to become a father."

Steve tilted her head up and kissed her. "I'll see you and Jack soon, Shelby." He ruffled Jack's hair. "Be good for your mom."

With a wave and a smile, Steve left.

Rhonda smiled as she walked up. "He's a good one."

Shelby nodded. "Yeah, Mom, he is."