Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

"I'm so happy you're here !", Pepper says, holding Jane tightly.
"Hey ! Did you really think I would let you down ?", Jane protests. "This charity gala for the Red Cross is such a great idea !"
"Great indeed", Pepper nods, "but a bit difficult to organise. There will be just one performance, which will be televised of course, and we must get it right."
She adds, making a face.
"Just a month for us to train ourselves...Rather short, don't you think ?"
Jane shakes her head.
"Don't worry, dear ! We will be coached by circus performers, remember ? All will go off well, I guarantee you !"
"I hope so", Pepper sighs.

"Tell me, are we allowed to choose our act ?", Jane asks with curiosity.
"Unfortunately not", Pepper explains, "Yohann, the circus manager, has decided for us. But he's a wise man: his choice has been highly considered."
"Let me guess", Jane teases, "as Tony's lover...you must be the lion tamer !"
The blond woman giggles.
"Not at all ! I'll be the ringmaster...the link between all of you."
"You will be perfect", Jane nods in approval. "And what about Tony ?"
Pepper grins, taking her friend's hand.
"Come with me, I'll show you !"

Near the circus tent, Tony and Bruce are making themselves up as clowns.
Bruce ( big shoes, colorful costume, silly little hat) gives the two women a knowing smile.
"Not very discreet, isn't it ? But this time, the Monster will make people laugh !"
"Don't be so sure", Tony comments sarcastically, "you look even more frightening like this !"
The doctor bows ironically.
"Applaud the marvellous White Face Clown and his dry wit !"

Before Tony has the chance to react, a rabbit runs at top speed, followed by an angry God of Thunder.
"Come back, stupid animal", Thor shouts, "otherwise I'll turn you into a f°°°ing rabbit stew !"
"Hey, Alice", Tony says, laughing hard, "not Wonderland, right ?"
Pepper frowns.
"Stop it ! Better concentrate on your duo with Bruce."
"Thor should have been a clown, rather than a magician", Tony mumbles. "His clumsiness is hilarious !"

Pepper rolls her eyes, but says nothing.
Then she gestures to the circus tent.
"Jane, go inside and find Gorge, he will be your trainer. I'm going to help Thor to catch that poor pet."
She waves her hand.
"Do a good job ! See you soon !"

The astrophysicist obeys and walks inside the tent. She shakes hands with a tall man who is standing in the middle of the ring.
"Gorg ? Nice to meet you ! I'm Jane. Please tell me you're not the knife thrower !"
He flashes her a smile.
"No, I'm not . Look above for a clue."
Jane raises her head.
Oh ... Trapeze. All right.

She grins.
"Splendid ! When I was young, I was used to climb trees and swing."
Gorg hides a smile.
"Trapeze artists need more than agility. Trust is the keyword. If you and your partner don't have trust in each other, you will fall. Literally."
Jane chews her upper lip.
"And who ..."

A mocking voice cuts her off.
"Hello, my ex sister-in - law. Ready for physical exploits with me ?"