110

Half way through the party Athena seized the opportunity to slip away making her way out to the balcony for some much needed air. She stood there under the starry sky taking sips from a bottle of expensive vodka she nicked from the bar just a few minutes ago. Athena needed air. She needed peace and quiet. She needed to be away from the staring of the new recruit. She wasn't ready for another failed relationship. Nor did she want one. Not after Carol disappeared. Then Lucy left. And now the newbie is here. The universe really must have it in for Athena Romanoff.

She heard the footsteps. Light. Tentative as if they were afraid to interrupt a personal thought. Instead of turning around Athena continued to look up at the sky. "I know you're there. May as well come the rest of the way out, rookie." Athena said in her thick Russian accent. "I figured you'd hear me. Especially being a Romanoff and all." The woman replied. "So that's why you came outside. To see the other Romanoff. Daughter of Black Widow." Athena stated dryly before taking a sip of the vodka. "You haven't even looked at me and yet you read me like you know me." The woman added. "I don't need to look at you, rookie. I've met people like you. The ones who come to gawk at Natasha Romanoff's only daughter." Athena hissed.

The woman faltered a moment not sure of what to say. "You're just a rookie here. You'll stay until something better comes along then you'll be gone." Athena added. It wasn't rude. It was just a simple fact. Then she heard footsteps again. Heavier, precise. "You should go back inside before my mother comes any closer." Athena quipped. The woman turned to see Natasha walking her way. Heels clicking on the balcony floor. "You heard my daughter. Go on before I make you." Natasha snapped and just like that the woman darted back inside.