^cxpt:

frustration
was the only thing he felt at that moment. they both knew
that shield would never give up, they both knew that eventually
they’d get their answers from him and he was certain the other knew
that it wouldn’t be pleasant. he knew how shield tended to get its
information and while he didn’t approve of how they did it, there was
nothing he could do to actually stop them. which meant having to
pretend like he didn’t know what was going on most of the time and
forcing himself not to go off on hill. she was only following orders
and as a soldier he understood that more than most. if only he could
get that through to this kid. life might be a bit easier if he
actually cooperated instead of digging in and being stubborn.

“you
know that’s not how they work.” he wouldn’t go after him again.
once was enough and should shield demand he bring this kid in he’d
flat out refuse. it wasn’t like he was hunting down doom, the red
skull or any other villain. if he honestly thought this kid was
someone shield needed to worry about he had no problem dragging him
in and allowing shield to do their thing. but steve didn’t think this
kid would cause them a problem and shield would have to find some
other way to get the intel they were looking for. “come with me
willingly
and things will be better than if they send someone after you.”

^{“i can’t do that.” it wasn’t simply a statement, but it was a fact —- the moment ky’lar did that, would be the moment that he opened a can of worms that wouldn’t be able to be closed. staying off the radar was easier, they couldn’t track him, and he didn’t have to deal with the legality of what he’s done. not to mention that he enjoyed not being labeled as something.}

_{well, most of the time — his own choice of friends were questionable at best. not to mention that they were usually dangerous, but that was besides the point. to be taken in by shield or anyone would more than likely be a disaster — one that couldn’t simply walk away from. “even if I wanted to, I don’t trust shield, or you.”}