Chapter 128: Black Widow's Hesitation

"If what you said is true, then I'll agree to all the conditions you mentioned."

Hearing George's firm tone, which didn't sound like a lie, Nick Fury took a moment to carefully recall the details of the past few years.

The more he thought about it, the more unnerved he became.

Sometimes, when you don't look at something with a particular perspective, you truly miss the signs. But once you approach it with the answer in mind, the flaws become glaringly obvious.

Though he hadn't gone back to verify George's claims, Nick Fury was already 70% convinced. The real question now was the extent of Hydra's infiltration within S.H.I.E.L.D. and how many agents could still be trusted.

"I trust your character, Director, but I hope you'll act quickly. After all, if I were to share this information with Hydra, I imagine they'd be more than willing to meet my conditions as well."

George's smile brimmed with confidence.

"You have my word—one week. I'll handle everything. In return, I hope you'll forget about everything we discussed today for the sake of global security."

Nick Fury's expression shifted once again.

At this point, he wasn't even hoping for George to join S.H.I.E.L.D. anymore; he just wanted him to stay at the school and, most importantly, not disclose their conversation to Hydra. If Hydra learned they'd been exposed, Fury would become their first target, putting him in an incredibly precarious position.

Killing George and everyone at the school to keep this secret was theoretically an option—but it wasn't feasible. Not only could George escape, but the school housed Wolverine, who was nearly unkillable, and the formidable, potentially rejuvenated Professor X.

If he couldn't ensure a swift and decisive strike, George might side with Hydra, forcing Fury to recall Captain Marvel just to stand a chance.

Truth be told, Fury already regretted having Black Widow investigate George. Not only had they gained nothing, but they'd also taken a significant hit.

Still, without this blunder, he might not have discovered Hydra's infiltration for years—possibly until the day he was betrayed by someone he trusted.

"Of course. Between Hydra, who likes to destroy the world, and S.H.I.E.L.D., I still prefer you guys.

Keep up the good work. If you can truly eliminate Hydra, perhaps I'll even consider bringing my students to join you one day.

My refusal to join was primarily because of the many Hydra agents within S.H.I.E.L.D. I hope you understand."

George stood up, patting Fury's shoulder with a sincere smile.

Yet inwardly, his thoughts were far less polite: 'Serves you right for poking your nose where it doesn't belong. Good luck sorting out your mess, motherfucker.'

Given the extent of Hydra's infiltration, once Fury began his investigation, Hydra would undoubtedly notice. After all, even Fury's most trusted predecessor had been a Hydra agent.

The coming years would likely see S.H.I.E.L.D. locked in a prolonged battle with Hydra, leaving them no time to meddle with George's affairs.

In a few years, George was confident his strength would render organizations like S.H.I.E.L.D. or Hydra irrelevant.

"Mr. George, I have urgent matters to address, so I won't stay any longer.

Agent Romanoff will handle the conditions you mentioned. She'll oversee everything and ensure it's completed within a week."

Fury, now preoccupied with uncovering Hydra's infiltration, had no intention of lingering.

Exchanging brief pleasantries, Fury left with Hawkeye, leaving Black Widow behind.

"Take care, Director. I won't see you off!"

George waved casually, then turned to Black Widow.

"Ms. Romanoff, I'll leave the rest to you."

"I'll do my best. Leave me a number, and I'll contact you once everything is done," Natasha replied, though her gaze was unfocused. She took a deep breath, trying to center herself.

George noticed her hesitation and smirked.

"I know a bit about you, you know. You joined S.H.I.E.L.D. to escape your past and atone for the sins you committed as a spy for the Red Room.

But as you've seen, S.H.I.E.L.D. has been infiltrated by Hydra. The missions you've undertaken in the name of atonement may have actually deepened your guilt.

Your director's methods are often self-centered and extreme. Organizations like S.H.I.E.L.D. might not be as beneficial to the world as you think."

"What do you mean by that?"

Black Widow's body tensed as she fixed her gaze on George, her voice trembling.

To her surprise, George spread his hands nonchalantly.

"It's simple. I'm saying our school could use more teachers. If you're open to it, you might consider trying a different way of life.

Teach our students here. Lead a peaceful life instead of taking on dangerous espionage missions around the globe."

Natasha was taken aback. George's proposal was entirely unexpected. Just yesterday, he'd humiliated her in combat, yet now he was inviting her to become a teacher.

However, his suggestion resonated with her.

She'd joined S.H.I.E.L.D. thinking she was making amends, only to realize she might have added to her sins. Perhaps teaching could bring her a sense of peace she'd never experienced before.

"I'll need time to think about it. Even if I agree, it'll have to wait until I help the Director eliminate Hydra."

After a long silence, Natasha finally responded.

"That's fine. Our doors are always open to you. Unlike S.H.I.E.L.D., we don't have stringent rules—just teach the students and enjoy your freedom," George replied with a smile, confident she would eventually agree.

After all, his list of potential teacher candidates was extensive, including a certain captain currently frozen in ice. With his tracking spell, beating Fury to Captain America would be a breeze.

Black Widow was just one of many options. If she declined, it wouldn't matter much.