Avengers Fic: The Avengers' First Thanksgiving

((Author’s note:  I apologize to all my non-American followers, who are likely sick to death of hearing about American holidays.  But the themes of family, togetherness, gratitude and selfless giving are buried under the food and the football and the foolishness.  These are themes that are central to my version of the Avengers, so I hope you can forgive me this indulgence.  

I am deeply thankful for my family, my friends, and the kindness I’ve encountered from this fandom, and untold hundreds of people who have taken the time and the effort to contact me with kind words, support, warmth, and humor.  For everyone who has read my words, encouraged me, or spoken to me, I am thankful for all you’ve given me, and the chance you give me to share the stories in my head.  Thank you.))

“Explain this again,” Thor said, staring at the boxes with a pursed mouth.

“Thanksgiving,” Coulson told him. “It’s a holiday where we try to reflect on the things we have to be thankful for, including our family and friends.”

“And you do this by consuming much food?” Thor asked.

“Also, football. It’s the American way!” Clint said, thrusting a hand in the air.

“That’s part of it, yes,” Bruce said, his lips twitching. “But another big part of it is offering hospitality to others, to give thanks for what you have by attempting to share with those who might not be so fortunate.”

“Thus, the collection for the food banks,” Steve said, smiling. The muscles of his back and arms were in stark relief beneath his shirt, but he wasn’t breathing hard. He set the box down with a faint sigh. “Not enough, though, is it?”

“Every bit helps,” Coulson told him.

“Not if you’re the one who’s hungry.” There was a faint pinch between his eyebrows as he studied what they’d gathered so far.

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