((Author's Note: Also posted on my Tumblr, but whatever. A short piece I hope might pan out, inspired by the Avengers blooper real))

"They needed the push."

Maria Hill gave Nick Fury a confused look. He still hadn't answered her question about how Phil's Collectable Captain America cards got out of his locker and blood covered. And why would that be a push? Weren't they all heroes in the first place? And hadn't they just lost someone they all cared about?

Even Stark had a soft spot for Agent Coulson-she'd heard him talk about flying Phil out to Portland to see his cellist ex (the vapid vain bitch). Thor was amused by him and friendly enough. Bruce appreciated that he didn't stare at him.. Clint and Natasha were both SHIELD, so of course they knew him. Yeah, he might have creeped out Steve a bit, but in an endearing sort of way.

So what the hell was the Director talking about when he said they needed the push…?

"You ruined the collector's value!"

The familiar voice surprised Maria as she flipped around with wide eyes. There stood Phil, a little banged up, wearing a cast, and a Captain America band aid on his forehead. He was pouting like a little kid and his statement was aimed at the Director.

"Coulson?" Hill stated as she stepped forward. Phil put on a dumb smile and waved with his good hand."
"Hi Maria. Sorry you weren't in on it. Director's orders. He seemed to think it would look more real if only he and I knew I wasn't…well…dead." He laughed, hand moving behind his head. "So-"

Maria glared and slapped him then.
"Don't ever do that again!" She snapped as Fury laughed behind them. Phil rubbed his cheek and smiled.
"Maria, I didn't know you-"

This time she kissed him. And that seemed to catch everyone off guard.

"Agents Hill…Coulson. How long has this been going on?" The Director cocked his eyebrow.

"Uh…Just now?" Phil blinked as Maria let go of him.
"You are the greatest man I know." Maria stated, thinking of her earlier outburst on the deck. "And I didn't realize that until I thought you'd died." She added before turning and walking away.

Phil blinked again as Fury laughed, and then ran after her.
"Maria, wait up!"