#Bucky Barnes has big platonic energy

[writingfics-passingtime]

Love love love your Bucky x reader platonic fics. We need more platonic/bff Bucky content! Im new to tumblr so still figuring out how requests work 🥺 but if you’re taking requests, would love more platonic bucky fics. Some ideas maybe:

- Bucky joining you on a night out / is protective of you

- Bucky wanting to become friends with you because you remind him of his sister Sarah. When you become good friends, he’s nervous to tell you why he wanted to get to know you.

Thank you, anon !!

I’m currently writing a Bucky drabble and was considering making it romantic but something about Buck is platonic as fuck??? I cannot explain why but the idea of writing romantic Bucky feels so strange.

My prompts technically aren’t open but I’m working on a short series of drabbles (link here) and I love these ideas so may very well incorporate them into the current series! Thank you for the suggestions 😊

[teddysterk]

Hello! Can you write a Bucky Barnes x ticklish reader headcanon on how he would tickle you and what teases he would say to make you blush and flustered?

Yes Ofcourse! Thank you so much for my first request! ❤️❤️❤️

(Also this is written as platonic I don’t feel comfortable writing romantic stuff ❤️)

Bucky Barnes X Y/N tickle headcannons

Bucky is a ler-leaning switch! He always has been, considering he has little siblings and Steve around. ❤️

Because of this big brother energy, he can be terrifying when it comes to tickles. Be careful when pranking him!

When Y/N joined the team and moved into the compound, Bucky and Y/N quickly became friends! :)

One day Y/N was play-wrestling with Bucky, and he grabbed your side in a way that made them make a noise… but not a pained noise… a cute noise! 🫣

From that day on, it was AWFUL (amazing) being around Bucky…. He would take any chance he could to fluster or tickle you. He would be the type to take advantage of little stretches or when Y/N is busy/distracted doing something else.

Also, over half of the play fights turned into tickle fights! 🥰

If Y/N was bugging Bucky for attention or decided it was a good idea to mess with Bucky, there is a 98% chance it would end with tickles.

He seems like a very playful type! Expect teases like “What’s so funny?” And “Will you quit giggling? I’m trying to talk to you!” Also….. Bucky and wiggly fingers OMG, that man will do anything to make you also soft and giggly he would be in a play fight and pin you down and wiggle his fingers or smirk at you.

Even with Bucky being more playful, he knows when it’s too much, or you’re not in the mood.

Bucky is a big fan of cuddly tickles in softer moods! If Y/N and Bucky are relaxing after a mission or long day, he will give the best light tickles to keep a smile on your face while you two wind down.

(A cute little scenario that is very much Bucky tickle vibes)

Y/N looks at their phone and sees it’s already 11:30. Bucky hasn’t gotten out of bed yet because he was exhausted from a mission he got back from late last night, but still, this man needs to get his butt out of bed. Y/N goes to his room and sees the super soldier asleep in bed. They go over to him and started shaking him awake, but he wouldn’t budge, so they shook him harder. “Bucky, get up, you lazy old man!” Bucky still doesn’t budge. “Huh? Bucky?” Y/N says as they sit right next to Bucky on the bed. “Are you dea- ACK!!” Y/N gets cut off by Bucky rolling over on top of them. “WHAT THE HELL!? Bucky!!” Y/N says as they smack his arm. Bucky is trying so hard not to giggle and “stay asleep,” he still has a tight smile on his face though.

Suddenly, Y/N feels two arms start to scribble on their sides. “Heheeyy! BuhUHKY!” Y/N laughs out as the Bucky begins scribbling on their ribs too. “GEHHETT OHHFFF YOU JEHHERRKK!” Y/N screeches out as Bucky digs into their hips. Bucky giggles a little and starts fake snoring. With all the tickles, Y/N can’t do much besides laugh. But after a little while, they manage to squeal out a “BUCKY!!” before dissolving into giggles again. Bucky finally lets up, and rolls over with Y/N on top of him, and traps them in a bear hug. “Yohhoouu suhhuuck!” Y/N says, letting out the remaining giggles. “Hey, it’s not my fault you decided to disturb my beauty sleep,” Bucky says as he kissed Y/N’s head.

(Credit to the gif owner)

Also thank you so much @the-gingerbread-lee and @cantsaythetword for help with editing and confidence to post my first request ❤️

[zephyrmonkey]

The Best Changes

*Not my GIF

Summary: The reader has a surprise for Bucky on their wedding day

Pairings: Bucky Barnes x Avenger! reader, Sam Wilson x reader (platonic), Tony Stark x reader (platonic), Steve Rogers x reader (platonic), Natasha Romanoff x reader (platonic)

Warnings: Reader is wheelchair-bound (reasons explained in the first fic)

Word Count: 1284 words

A/N: Did I write this because I wanted to write Bucky’s reaction to the reader walking again? Yes. Did I stop before the vows because I was too lazy to think of heartwarming and meaningful vows? Oh Yeah!

Hope you guys enjoy it!

Part 1: Bad Changes, Good Changes

(y/n/n) = your nickname

(y/l/n) = your last name

“Come on! One more step! One more step (y/n)! Come one!”

“TONY! SHUT UP!” (y/n) yelled at the billionaire as she held on to two bars on either side of her. “If you keep talking, I will lose my balance!” She grunted while using all of her energy to keep her standing up.

“If you take one more step, I can let you go, Mrs. Barnes.”

(y/n) chuckled, “Still have a mouth left before the big day Stark. And stop making me laugh. I’m going to-Woah!” (y/n) lost her grip on one of the bars and started to fall. Before she did, two sets of hands grabbed her.

“Hey, we got you.” “You okay (y/l/n)?” Steve and Sam asked the woman as they guided her back to her wheelchair.

“Thanks, guys. And I'm fine.” She gave them a small smile. “Thanks for the help, Tony.” She sarcastically added.

“Wha-What did I do?” The billionaire asked with his hands up in surrender.

“You made me laugh so hard that I lost my grip, and I fell!”

“Okay! Okay! I’ll take the blame!” He laughed along with everyone else in the room. As the laughter died down, Tony got serious. “Are you ready for the brace?”

“Yes.” (y/n) let out a shaky breath

Steve looked at her and realized that she was nervous. “You don’t have to do this. Bucky will be just as happy if you roll down the aisle.”

She gave him a small smile and shook her head. “No, I want to do this. I’m just a little nervous.”

Sam laughed. “You’ve fought against HYDRA, interrogated and broke the toughest criminals, is one of the top agents in SHIELD, and you’re nervous to put on a brace and walk?”

“Wow, you make me sound like I’m weird.”

“Well, you are marrying a cyborg, so we might have to come back to that.” This made (y/n) laugh.

“Okay, let’s do it.”

One month later, (y/n) sat in front of the mirror, looking at herself.

“You look amazing little sis.” Steve stood behind her and looked her in the eye through the mirror.

She laughed. “We’re not related, Stevie.”

“Well, you are marrying my best friend, who is like a brother to me. And you are like a little sister to me. Besides, I’m walking you down the aisle. I think I can call you little sis.”

“You’re only walking me down the aisle because if I had Tony do it, it would be embarrassing for all parties involved.” She laughed.

“Ouch.” He jokingly put his hand to his heart and started to laugh with her. “You can’t say such things to an old man. It just might break my fragile heart.”

She smiled up at him. “Good.”

Before Steve could respond, Sam walked into the room with Tony trailing behind. “Girl! You look amazing!”

(y/n) blushed as she turned her chair around and looked at the three men. “Thank you. And thank you for helping me these past few months.”

“Of course.” “Anything for you, little one.” “Anytime, Mrs. Barnes.”

“Not yet, Tony. Only a few more minutes to go.” Natasha walks into the room with Wanda and Pepper behind her.

“Are you ready?” Wanda asks the bride-to-be.

“Yes,” (y/n) smiles the biggest smile in the world.

“Okay! Let’s do this!” Tony shouted, making everyone realize that he had a drink in his hand, causing Pepper to walk over to him and take the drink.

“Ok,” Pepper said once she returned from throwing the drink away. “ I think we are ready now.”

As if on cue, the music for the ceremony to begin started playing. The wedding party turned to Tony, who had a remote in his hand and was pushing the button. “What? You said that we are ready.”

Pepper took the remote from his hand and placed it on the nearby table and dragging him to the doors of the sanctuary. They wished (y/n) good luck and walked through the doors to start the processional. Wanda and Sam went next after they sent their wishes to the bride-to-be.

“You look like a princess, Miss (y/l/n)!” Cassie, Scott’s daughter, who was the flower girl, said to (y/n).

“Yes, verwy prwetty.” Nate, Clint’s son, and the ring barrier mumbled to the woman.

This made (y/n)’s smile even bigger (if that was at all possible). She thanked them as Laura ushered them to start walking down the aisle.

“Ready mladshaya sestra (little sister)?” Natasha asked her best friend, whom she saw as a sister.

She had a massive smile on her face as she nodded. “Yes!”

Steve and Natasha laughed as they saw the young woman bounce in her wheelchair.

“Okay.” Steve rubbed his hands as he overexaggerated preparing to help (y/n) out of her wheelchair.

Natasha and (y/n) laughed at Steve’s antics. “Come on, Steve. We have to get Miss (y/l/n) ready for her last walk before she becomes Mrs. Barnes.”

Steve and Natasha went to either side of (y/n) and held their arms out for her to take. She grabbed both of them and used all her strength to lift herself. Once she knew we wouldn’t fall, she took a step.

“Okay,” (y/n) let out a shaky breath while smiling. “I think I got it.”

As if someone could read her mind, the processional music turned into Here Comes the Bride. Natasha and (y/n) turned to look at Steve, who wore a smile while holding the remote that Tony had had a few minutes before.

“No time like the present. Right?” Steve shrugged as he pocketed the remote.

Instead of responding, they got into position as the double doors opened. (y/n) took a deep breath and looked at all the guests standing and looking at her with surprised smiles.

As she took her first step, the crowd began to murmur, and Bucky, who was standing at the altar, who could not see (y/n), began to grow worried. Was she not there? Did she change her mind? He thought.

All his worries were put to rest when he saw (y/n) take a step toward him with Steve and Natasha.

He had to do a double take at his bride as she slowly walked to him. He didn’t even try to stop the tears from flowing down his face as he cried.

He put a hand over his mouth as he watched the love of his life walk for the first time in over a year.

Sam patted his shoulder in encouragement, and when (y/n) had reached the alter and Bucky didn’t move (still gaping at her and processing what was happening), he pushed the groom to his bride.

As he walked to (y/n), Natasha and Steve gently let her go. Bucky stopped walking as he took in his about-to-be wife walking without help.  

“You… you’re….” Bucky barely got the words out as he took her hands.

“Surprise, my love.” (y/n) smiled as she took one of her hands and wiped the tears that fell from his eyes.

“You’re walking. Without help.” Bucky whispered.

“Yes, I am. I want to take this next step with you on my own two feet.”

Bucky had a huge smile on his face as he put both his hands on (y/n)’s cheeks and kissed her.

“Hey! Manchurian Candidate! You are supposed to kiss her after you say, ‘I do!’”

Bucky and (y/n) broke apart with a laugh.

“Okay, so we have about 10 minutes before I have to sit down, so let’s get this show on the road.” (y/n) smiled at Bucky as he took her hands, and they walked to the preacher at the end of the aisle. Ready to start the next chapter of their lives.

[natashasvixen]

Chocolate biscuits 🍪

Summary: You are suffering on your period and your girlfriends and super solider friend look after you with the added help of chocolate.

Pairings: Wanda x Natasha x Fem!Reader, Bucky Barnes x Fem!Reader (platonic)

Warnings: Description of period pain, reader fainting, Wanda uses her magic, Bucky being a good bestie, so much fluff

Word count: 1.6k

Authors note: This is a complete self comfort fic I’m on my period and just want my girls to look after me, I wrote this super fast so I’m sorry for any mistakes! 💕🦊

───── ⋆⋅ ⴵ ᗢ ⋅⋆ ─────

You groaned curling impossibly tighter into yourself on your bed, hot water bottle long since gone cold and your pain medicine wearing off but you couldn’t find the energy to go look for more.

Luckily your period had hit on your day off but unluckily both of your girlfriends were still working and training new recruits making your shared room in the compound feel even more cold and empty. You wanted nothing more than to beg them to come back to bed and cuddle with you to help the pain go away and you knew if you asked they would in a heartbeat but you didn’t want to be a bother, they are busy and it’s not their fault your body makes this monthly ritual more torturous than what most people experience. So here you are trying to get through it on your own but nothing seems to be working.

You remember Maria lecturing you about how getting up and moving is the best thing you can do so begrudgingly you pull yourself up out of bed to try walk around, you sway a little and your head feels fuzzy but you manage to steady yourself and pick up your phone from the nightstand to check the time, squinting your eyes at the sudden bright screen which only makes your head pound harder,

“Nearly three in the afternoon, yeah I guess I should maybe try eat something” you sigh to yourself knowing you are only making your lightheadedness worse but the thought of food has made your stomach turn all day. You slip on one of Natasha’s hoodies tugging the hood tightly over your head and the sleeves over your hands and begin to pad your way towards the compounds shared kitchen in search of anything to make you feel better.

───── ⋆⋅ ⴵ ᗢ ⋅⋆ ─────

Bucky is stood in the kitchen rummaging through the cupboards no doubt looking for something to snack on before dinner, as he hears you entering he turns around, quickly hiding a packet of chocolate biscuits behind his back,

“God y/n you gave me a heart attack I thought you were Steve, you know how he gets about no snacks between meals” he scoffs.

You give a small chuckle back “wow thanks are my footsteps really that heavy”

“No offence tiny, but you look awful” Bucky said looking you up and down.

“Of first off I’m not that much shorter than you big guy, second off thanks for confirming I look as bad as I feel and finally I will hurt you” you say pointing a finger at him from the sleeves still covering your hands in the least threatening pose ever.

Bucky hold his hands up biscuits and all trying not to laugh “woah ok feisty pants, what’s gotten into you today”

You slump even further dropping your hand “I just don’t feel good Buck, girl problems and Nat and Wands are both working” you sigh curling your arms around yourself suddenly feeling the urge to cry, stupid hormones.

Bucky immediately drops the teasing knowing that this time of the month always hits you hard but you normally have your girlfriends to take care of you, “I’m sorry, I didn’t realise” he holds out the packet of biscuits to you, “wanna eat biscuits and watch a movie?” He asks gently.

You break into a small smile at your friends attempt to help but before you can even think about responding you quickly bring your hand to your head and sway on the spot suddenly feeling incredibly sick.

“Y/n you ok?” he asks moving towards you and before you can answer your knees buckle, Bucky manages to catch you before you hit the ground dropping his biscuits in the process, “you’re ok I got you” he says watching worriedly as the colour drains from your face, you feel your friend gently hook an arm under your knees to lift you up and the last thing you hear before your vision completely blacks out is “Friday tell Natasha and Wanda to meet me at medical”.

───── ⋆⋅ ⴵ ᗢ ⋅⋆ ─────

Slowly you blinked open your eyes feeling the intense pain in your head that was there before everything went black.

“Friday, dim the lights please” you heard Wanda’s voice softly call out.

“Of course miss Maximoff” the A.I. responded, immediately the light in the room softened and you let out a quiet sigh of relief gently opening your eyes now that it didn’t hurt so much to do so, as you did you could see both of your favourite sets of green eyes gazing down at you.

“Hey sleepy head, how are you feeling?” Natasha whispered, softly cupping your face and stroking your cheek with her thumb.

“Tasha?” You mumbled groggily, “what happened?”

“You passed out detka (baby), Bucky took you to medical and Bruce checked you over, you’re ok you just need to take it easy” she said leaning down to press a kiss to your forehead.

Your eyes fluttered shut at the contact, slowly coming back to full consciousness you recognised that you were back in your shared bed, head in Wanda’s lap while she gently stroked through your hair with Natasha sat beside you now holding your hand.

“Why didn’t you tell us you weren’t feeling well sweetheart, we could have helped” Wanda said worriedly.

“I’m sorry I didn’t want to bother you” you said as you snuggled closer to her letting out a pained gasp as a bad cramp hit you after moving.

Natasha moved back a little “you think you can sit up and try take some medicine for me darling? It’ll make you feel better” she held out both of her hands for you, silently offering to help you up.

You took both of Natasha’s hands wincing as she helped you sit up, tears welled in your eyes as Wanda rubbed circles on your lower back, sniffling gently “it hurts Natty” you whimper as a few tears fell from your tired eyes.

“I know baby, I know, shhh come here” Natasha cooed taking your face into her hands and wiping away your tears with the pads of her thumbs as she rested her forehead against your own. “You’re ok baby, come on breathe with me” she said quietly keeping her forehead pressed to yours knowing that the pressure would help keep you grounded, as you continued to cry your breathing becoming more erratic as the tears fell.

You felt Wanda wrap her arms around you from behind gently slipping her hands under Nat’s hoodie to rest one on your hip rubbing slow circles with her thumb and the the other coming to hover above your stomach as she coaxed her magic to the surface and used it to ease some of the pain, it felt like the worlds best hot water bottle and massage all in one. As her crimson wisps of magic danced and curled she rested her head on your shoulder pressing a soft kiss just behind your ear, “its ok, we’ve got you angel” she whispered, letting her magic do its work.

Your shoulders dropped a little and your breathing started to even out as the tension and pain started to ease, you let yourself lean further back into the witch as she continued to work her literal magic while whispering sweet nothings into your ear.

Natasha pulled her head back from yours slightly “good girl, there you go” she cooed as she wiped the last of your tears away seeing your eyes droop closed with relief she pressed a gentle kiss to your lips threading her fingers through your own and squeezing your hands.

“I think that’s better than any medicine, thank you my love” you whispered as Wanda slowly pulled her magic back and settled her hands on both of your hips still rubbing small circles, you blinked open your eyes and turned slightly leaning in to connect your lips to hers bringing one of your hands away from Nat’s to tuck Wanda’s hair behind her ear and cup her cheek.

“Anything for you y/n” she pulled back and pressed a kiss to your nose, each of your cheeks and finally the softest of kisses right between your eyes, Natasha watched both of you lovingly with a content smile on her face knowing your were feeling better.

Your sweet and quiet moment was interrupted by a soft knock at the door, you turned towards the door still holding Natasha’s hand as Wanda once again wrapped you up in a hug from behind and reached to take Natasha’s free hand into her own.

“Come in” you called out relaxing further into both of your girlfriends embrace tiredly.

Bucky popped his head round the door, “hey tiny, I wanted to check how you were doing” he asked smiling at the soft scene he saw before him.

“I could still hurt you big guy” you threatened making both of your girlfriends chuckle, “just not right now” you sighed contentedly leaning further back as Wanda pecked your cheek.

“Thank you for catching me Buck” you said pausing as you sat up slightly and your eyes widened with realisation, “oh no I made you drop your biscuits didn’t I?” You gasped. “I’m so sorry!”

Bucky laughed quietly, “it’s ok tiny you’re more important and anyway I used the smashed biscuits to make a chocolate cheesecake and I told everyone no one is allowed any until you feel better and try it first” he smiled at you.

Your eyes light up at the sound of chocolate, finally not feeling so sick sugar sounded like exactly what you needed, “well what are we waiting for!?” You exclaimed making your girlfriends and your friend all burst out laughing, sure your period might suck but you had the best people to look after you through it.

[yelena-bellova]

Safe Haven: tfatws!Bucky Barnes x fem!reader - Chapter Two

chapter one -Chapter Two: According To Plan - chapter three

Series Masterlist

Plot: Y/n and Sam leave for Munich, gaining the surprise addition of Bucky Barnes to their team. 

Pairings: Bucky Barnes x fem!reader, Sam Wilson x platonic!reader

Warnings: spoilers for ep.2, language, violence, squint for fluff in between all the chaos, Y/n and Bucky ain’t feeling each other yet, protective big brother Sam, nobody likes Walker

Word Count: 7.5k (ya’ll, we had to split episode 2 into two chapters because I use too many words lol)

A/N: OKAY, thank you to everybody for supporting the first chapter. I didn’t really think anything would come of it but I was clearly wrong. Hopefully you enjoy this one just as much, each episode will probably be divided into two chapters if the rest of the season continues on like it is. 

----

The government hadn’t just failed Sam, they were rubbing his face in the fact that they thought their knockoff Captain America was a better candidate than him.

I followed my brother down the halls of the New Orleans air force base, trying to ignore the paraphernalia that hung on the walls. John Walker was everywhere you looked; the internet, televisions, posters were plastered all over the city announcing his new appointment. Each time I had to read the words ‘Cap Is Back’ I became a little sick to my stomach. Sam stopped in front of me once we’d reached the hanger to stare at one of the posters. Though he tried to keep his face neutral, the sadness bled through in his eyes.

“Seems like a good guy. You met him?” a man who I assumed was Sam’s military contact asked.

“No,” Sam answered before changing the topic, “Thanks for doing this on such short notice.” “Yeah, no sweat. I’m just finishing up the checklist, you two’ll be all good to go once you land in Munich,” he looked to me and reached a hand for me to shake, “Joaquin Torres.” “Y/n Y/l/n. Thanks for not making any noise about me coming along for the ride.”

“Hey, I trust an Avenger’s judgement on who to bring to a fight,” he smiled, stopping at the top of the steps to allow me to go before himself.

I elbowed Sam as we descended the stairs side by side, “Hear that? You’ve got good judge- why’re you making that face?” Before he could answer, a foreign voice announced its presence. “Shouldn’t have given up the shield.”

My eyes fell to the floor below us and climbed the looming figure waiting at the end of the staircase. I didn’t need to have any history lessons on who he was or why he’d come to talk to Sam about such a subject. James Bucky Barnes, the second 100+ year old man to walk the earth without a single wrinkle. The tragic tale of HYDRA’s bloodthirsty history. The man Sam had fought to protect and been sent to prison for.

“Good to see you too, Buck,” Sam passively greeted the man, swerving around his body to continue on our path to the jet. The hint wasn’t taken. 

“This is wrong.”

“Hey, hey, look, I’m working, alright? So all this outrage is gonna have to wait.” Bucky fell into step on the other side of Sam, pointing towards yet another poster of John Walker, “You didn’t know that was gonna happen?”

“No, of course I didn’t know that was gonna happen,” Sam’s tone became more emotional, “You think it didn’t break my heart to see them march him out there and call him the new Captain America?” “This isn’t what Steve wanted,” Bucky pushed. Sam was growing tired of the questioning, “What do you want me to do? Call America and tell ‘em I changed my mind? Huh? Yeah, right. It’s a great reunion, buddy, be well.” “You had no right to give up that shield, Sam.” I could no longer stay silent and let him try and make a good man feel guilty. “Okay, you’re out of line with that one, Barnes.” Bucky finally took a second to register my being there before looking back to Sam, “Who the hell is this?” “She’s none of your concern, but let me tell you what you’re not gonna do,” Sam stood in front of Bucky, “You’re not gonna come here in your overextended life and tell me about my rights. It’s over, Bucky. Besides, I have bigger things to deal with now.” Emotions I couldn’t fully understand took over Bucky’s face, “What could be bigger than this?”

Sam fished his phone out of his back pocket and held it up to the Super Soldier, “This guy. His connections with rebel organizations all over Eastern and Central Europe and he’s strong. Too strong.” “And?” Bucky asked, unimpressed.

“Well, he’s been connected to this online group called the Flag Smashers. Now, Redwing traced them to a building somewhere outside of Munich so that’s where I’m going,” Sam turned to me to signal we were walking again.

“Well, I don’t trust Redwing,” Bucky continued his pursuit, “Hold on a minute.” “You don’t have to trust Redwing,” Sam said firmly as we paused again, “But I’mma go see if he’s right. ‘Cause I have a feeling they might be a part of the Big Three.”

Bucky’s eyebrows lowered in confusion, “What ‘Big Three?’”

“The Big Three.”

“What Big Three?” “Androids, aliens and wizards,” I answered before Sam could. “That’s not a thing,” Bucky shook his head. “That’s definitely a thing,” Sam nodded. “No, it’s not.” “It really is,” I set my bag down on the ground and crossed my arms, there was no indication we’d be leaving any time soon.

“Every time we fight, we fight one of the three,” Sam insisted.

“So who are you fighting now, Gandalf?”

Sam inhaled to continue arguing before snapping his head back in surprise, “How do you know about Gandalf?” “I read The Hobbit,” Bucky answered confidently, “In 1937 when it first came out.”

“So you see my point?” “No, I don’t. There are no wizards.” I pointed to Bucky and tilted my head towards Sam, “Now there, I agree with him.” Sam looked offended that I didn’t automatically back him up, “You both are wrong…Doctor Strange.” “Is a sorcerer,” Bucky finished.

“Aah!” Sam laughed and poked Bucky’s firm chest, “A sorcerer is a wizard without a hat. Think about it, right? I’m right. I just came up with that, it’s crazy.” Bucky’s face read that he was thousand shades of done with Sam’s childish argument, even if he’d fought just as immaturely. I was beginning to see why Sam didn’t recount his brief time spent with the ex-Winter Soldier that fondly but I’d also forgotten how easy it was to push Sam’s buttons sometimes. There was some unwitting dynamic between them that I didn’t want to be in the middle of. “So glad we’re wasting valuable time on arguing over whether or not Harry Potter’s real,” I spoke up, tapping my foot out of impatience.

Sam was the first to snap back to reality, “That’s not the point. These guys aren’t magical, alright? They use brute force just like you, the incredibly annoying guy in front of me with the staring problem,” he reached down to grab my bag and hand it to me, “Let’s move.” “I’m coming with you,” Bucky called, the sound of his combat boots hitting the hanger floor behind us. “No, you’re not,” Sam answered harshly. “Oh my gosh,” I groaned before dropping my duffle bag again on the tarmac and spinning around to face the two men, “I don’t know how you two could have possibly saved the day as much as people say you have if you’re always like this! You,” I pointed to Sam, “Stop trying to do this on your own. You,” I moved my finger towards Bucky, “No more talking about the shield. If anybody needs me,” I wiggled my fingers and let the blue energy lift my bag into the air, “I’ll be waiting in the jet.” ——

Bucky and Sam stood speechless as they watched Y/n march across the tarmac, her bag magically floating behind her. “Who is she?” “My sister, Y/n,” Sam answered, “I didn’t know she could do that till today. She twisted my arm until I agreed to let her come.” Bucky’s eyes hadn’t left Y/n since she took control and ended Sam and his bickering. There weren’t many people who met him for the first time and didn’t give him a second glance. If she was Sam’s sister then she sure as hell knew about his past. Yet here she was daring to order him around and advocate for him to join Sam and her on their mission. It also went without saying that she was gorgeous. But she had proven that she didn’t understand the seriousness in which the situation with the new Captain America needed to be treated with, and that irked him. Still, his feet automatically wanted to carry him to the jet once she’d headed up the ramp and he’d lost his view of her. “Can’t decide whether I like her or not.”

——

Not having a suit to wear, I had changed on the jet from my sweater, capris and sneakers to a black shirt, jeans, booties and my favorite blue leather jacket that matched the blue that flowed from my fingertips.

When I stepped out of the jet’s bathroom, I expected to find Sam and Bucky fighting again. The whole flight so far has been filled with the same tension that had begun in the hanger and we’d been sitting in uncomfortable silence ever since. I was sure that the second I left, they’d be going at it again like children when a parent disappeared. Instead, they were quietly sitting on opposite sides of the jet with their eyes trained on one another.

“Can you guys quiet down for a second?” I sarcastically remarked as I walked across the room, “I can’t hear myself think.”

I deposited my bag in the corner of the jet near where Torres was climbing down the ladder, “One minute to drop off, Sam.”

I expected to turn around and see both Sam and Bucky up and preparing themselves, but the two men were still embroiled in a stare down. Sam and I had always cheesed each other off in a typical sibling fashion, but Bucky and his relationship seemingly consisted of nothing but that. 

Sam finally rose from his seat and Bucky quickly did the same, I brushed past him to stand on the other side of Sam. “So what’s the plan?” Sam ignored the question and handed me a small black device, “This is your comm, don’t lose it.” I nodded and placed the small ear piece in my ear, the faint hums of the jet coming through it.

With no direction from Sam, Bucky sat back down unhappily. “Great. So no plan?”

“Thirty seconds,” Torres shouted over the wind coming in from the open hatch.

“Enjoy your ride, Buck,” Sam remarked from beside me. “No, you can’t call me that.” “Why not? That’s what Steve called you.” “Steve knew me longer and Steve,” Bucky tilted his head to Sam, “Had a plan.”

I shook my head to shake off the ridiculousness of arguing nicknames at the moment. “I’m sorry, are we really playing the name game when we’re literally about to jump out of a plane? I get this is my first mission and all but- Bucky’s eyebrows shot up his forehead as he looked to Sam, “This is her first mission? What the hell were you thinking, bringing her?” “She,” I took a step towards Bucky, “Is more than capable of handling herself. First mission or 100th, I know what I’m doing, Barnes.”

“Fifteen seconds to drop!” Torres’ announcement ended any further arguing between me and Bucky.

“Listen to the woman,” Sam smirked as he put on his goggles, probably thinking back to a few hours ago when I’d body slammed him into the roof, “And I have a plan.”

“Really?” Bucky spread his arms out as we watched Sam walk away from us, “What is it?” Sam had already told me that he’d drop in first and I was to follow once he’d cleared the area. Bucky had not been privy to hearing that discussion and Sam had made no effort to fill him in. Without giving Bucky a second look, but winking at me, he dove headfirst out of the hatch and activated his wings, flying gracefully downwards towards the forest. I had never gotten to see him fly and felt a sense of pride as I looked out to see him glide above the trees.

“Where’s the chute?” Bucky called out.

“We’re at 200 feet, it’s too low for a chute,” Torres stated.

Bucky stalked towards the door, “I don’t need it anyway.”

“Neither will I,” I said, taking a step forward to see just how high we really were. I was confidant in my ability to keep up with Sam and wanted to prove my capability, but I was human. It went against every natural instinct to step out into the air and catch myself. Bucky moved to stand next to me, the two of us turning to face each other. This was the first time we’d actually made more than fleeting eye contact and I was finally able to get a good look at him. His features were sharp, his cheekbones and jaw were extremely prominent. Something more than scruff and less than a beard covered the bottom half of his face. His eyes were cerulean blue, just nearly matching the shade of my energy. Complete with a short, scruffy haircut, I wasn’t sure if handsome was a strong enough word for just how good looking James Barnes was. 

“Ladies first,” Bucky nodded towards our exit, never breaking eye contact, “Sure you know what you’re doing?” I smiled smugly, matching the amount of sass radiating from his words, “Do you?”

Not wanting to give him the opportunity to think up a come back, I turned away from him and threw myself out of the plane. An unavoidable scream flew from my lips as I free fell, somehow managing in the chaos to threw my arms out at my sides and expel my energy to control my descent. Once I got a hold on maneuvering the winds, the act actually became almost enjoyable. I found myself laughing as I weaved between the trees, until my laughter was accompanied by a fast approaching scream above me. A shower of branches began to rain down around me forcing me to swerve to the side just in time for Bucky’s figure to come crashing through. He landed harshly on his back, limbs spread out and a pained groan escaping his lips.

I floated directly above him, “I stand corrected, you definitely know what you’re doing.” “I have all of that on camera. You know that, right?” Sam’s voice came through our comms. Redwing flew up from behind us and zoomed in on Bucky’s face. 

“Get out of my face, Sam, or I’ll break it,” Bucky uttered, exhaustion filling his voice.

“Okay, head north. Come on.” I snickered at the exchange and lowered myself to the ground close enough to Bucky to extend him a hand. He accepted it and I helped pull him to an upright sitting position, trying to hide the fact that I struggled with his weight. “Thanks.” “Well, my mom taught me to always help my elders,” I said with a smirk, earning myself a scowl in response. “You’re as bad as Sam, aren’t you?” he moaned as he rose to his full height.

“Okay, okay,” I ceased my soft laughter, “I’m sorry. Seriously, are you okay? I know you’re a super soldier but still-” “I’m fine,” Bucky confirmed quickly, brushing the dirt from his jacket and turning north, “Let’s go.”

The two of us fell into a silence that wasn’t necessarily uneasy but certainly not relaxed. We weren’t enemies, we weren’t coworkers and we definitely weren’t friends. We’d spoken all of about five sentences to each other since meeting and none of them had been particularly chummy. “Sam only mentioned one sister,” Bucky broke the non-verbal spell.

“Sarah,” I stated, “We’re not technically related but they’re family. Sam told me he reached out to you and never got anything back. I think he was wondering how you were doing.” “Yeah, well…” he mumbled, stepping over a particularly large boulder and avoiding my gaze. 

I decided not to push the subject, not only were we nearing the warehouse, Sam could hear us through the comms and Redwing. But I made a note of the lightning quick wave of emotion that crossed Bucky’s eyes. Sam was definitely a trigger for him, but I had a feeling this was something much more complicated. Something I didn’t have time to get too curious over.

We made it out of the forest and Redwing led us to the back entrance to the warehouse. The graffiti and wrecked roofing made me want to believe that nobody had been there in ages, but Sam’s intel contradicted the setting. My brother, the esteemed military man, was also contradicting his age as he maneuvered Redwing just above us to provoke Bucky into taking a swing at him. “Oh-ho-ho, don’t hurt him,” he teased as Redwing quickly avoided the assault.

Sam stood in the next room staring down at the screen on his wrist, scanning the building through Redwing’s camera. He took a quick look at me to assess that I hadn’t been injured in the fall before turning back.

“You’re doing the staring thing again,” he commented without looking up. That one I’d give him, Bucky’s smoldering stare game was intimidating especially when he wasn’t saying anything. “They’re in there,” Sam tilted his head towards the nearest open doorway and stretching his arm out so Bucky and I could see what Redwing was seeing. There was a truck with two people loading in containers of something.

“Where’s the guy?” Bucky asked.

“I don’t know. I think they’re smuggling weapons though.” “Well, I think you could be right,” Bucky’s voice lowered. “Hmm,” Sam nodded.

“But there’s only one way to find out,” Bucky turned towards the doorway, “I see a clear path, I say we take it.”

As soon as his boot hit the ground in its first step, Sam reached for his arm. “We’re not assassins.” “Shouldn’t we, I don’t know, observe from a distance rather than attack straight away?” I offered.

Bucky’s eyes flicked to me when I spoke and promptly back to Sam, throwing away my suggestion. He probably thought me naive. “I’ll see you inside or not.”

He pulled his arm out of Sam’s grip and went ahead, leaving Sam chuckling to himself. “Hey, come on, man. I’m just messing with you, come back,” he called softly. “‘I’m just messing with you,’ the Avengers’ official slogan,” I dryly jested, “Here I was thinking we were doing serious work. Is Redwing still surveying?” “Yeah,” Sam was still smiling to himself as he turned to watch Bucky stalk down the hallway, “Look at you. All stealthy. A little time in Wakanda and you come out White Panther.” 

“It’s actually White Wolf,” Bucky responded in our ears.

“Huh?”

When we lost visual on Bucky, Sam snapped his fingers and nodded towards the hallway. We made our way through the various openings until we’d caught up, Sam held up a finger to his lips as we caught sight of Bucky and our steps became even softer.

“All right, I’m inside. Therefore way ahead of you,” Bucky bragged, turning back to where he thought we waited, “It’s not great but very doable.” His peripherals must have caught the red and white of Sam’s suit, he turned to see the two of us at his side. “Hello. How are you?” “Good. What did we miss? Nothing,” Sam replied.

“All right, let’s go,” Bucky moved to step forward again.

“No, wait,” Sam protested.

Bucky held up his prosthetic vibranium arm I had heard so much about. “I got a vibranium arm, I can take them.” “And I can fly, she can make things float, who gives a shit? Wait. I want to see where they’re going.” Bucky pointed towards the truck that was still being loaded, “There’s two people.”

“You only see two?” Sam started. “That’s what I saw,” Bucky confirmed.

“Let me see what Redwing sees.” “All right…” “Let’s see what Redwing sees…”

I held two fingers to my temple and rubbed, “My gosh, it’s like working with children.”

Sam fiddled with a few controls on the screen and activated the x-ray feature on his beloved drone, “Oh, look at that. How many people you see now? One, two…Oh, here it comes again.” Bucky sighed, unhappy to admit he was wrong, “Four. Five.” “Yeah, five.” “So they’re strong, whatever,” Bucky brushed off not only the math but our group’s capabilities. “Let’s go.”

“Barnes, wait,” I hissed as Sam reached out and took hold of his arm, his elbow hitting the metal shelves we were hiding behind and rattling something.

“Shit!” Sam whispered, he pulled me to his side to block me while Bucky ducked down. The group turned to investigate the noise but disregarded it at the lack of visible culprits. The trucks started and their doors were closed, each person getting into their designated vehicle. Sam started tapping on Redwing’s controller again, “There’s an eighth person. I think they have a hostage.”

With one look from Bucky, the three of us snapped into action. I raised myself into the air ahead of Sam who took off slightly behind me, looking down to see Bucky running impossibly fast. “Y/n, with me,” Sam called through the comms, I listened and hung back until he’d caught up. Bucky continued on his way until he’d climbed onto the back of the truck. I followed Sam’s lead as we flew to the side of the road.

“Shouldn’t we be helping him?” I asked as the two of us landed.

“They’re stealing medicine, vaccines,”  Bucky’s voice filled my comm.

“He’s got it, we’re staying here and waiting for him to come back with the hostage. Then you and I are gonna keep following the trucks and see where they’re heading,” he explained, “I’m trying to keep you out of as much of the fight as I can.” “That’s the whole reason I came, Sam,” I argued, gesturing towards the road, “To help, to fight.”

“Bucky, talk to me,” Sam favored to ignore my desire to do dirty work, “What’s goin’ on?” 

“Found the hostage,” he reported, followed only seconds later by a loud exclaim of “Shit!”

Adrenaline set every nerve alight in my body, something had gone wrong. Without asking for Sam’s permission I took off running down the road. I used my energy to lift towards the sky and flew the same way the truck’s had gone. Distantly, I heard Sam yell my name but made no effort to stop. “Barnes, talk to me,” I yelled over the winds I was flying against. As I spotted the trucks I saw the small silhouettes of figures standing atop one of them. Once I got closer, I could see that the one being aggressively pinned by two of them was Bucky. I landed on the vehicle’s roof just in time to see someone leap into the air, grab Redwing and break him with their knee. Between my want to help Bucky and my second hand protectiveness over Sam’s gear, I was pissed. The masked figure looked up at me, two brown eyes peeking out of eyeholes and marched forward, making me their next target. I created a ball of blue energy and aimed it at her, knocking her down but only for a second. She leapt towards me and landed a punch across my cheek, I went down with a groan and cradling my cheek. Now I was really pissed…

I opened an eye to see the shadow of Sam’s Falcon suit above me, he touched down on the truck and landed a kick to my assaulter’s abdomen. He quickly helped me to my feet as our enemy rose again and took a fight stance. 

“Good of you to join the fight, Sam,” Bucky yelled before kicking one of his captors in the leg. 

The person who had given me the shiner threw Sam aside to the second truck like he was weightless. She was far too small to be that strong, it was inhuman. I decided to hold back a little less and raised my hands toward her, extending waves of the blue energy and raising her up into the air. She struggled to try and escape my hold, grunting and groaning as she flopped around in the air. I was about to throw her into the trees when I was tackled from behind. We skidded towards the front of the truck till the boot of one of the thugs holding Bucky down hit me in the shoulder. Another masked figure, this one I suspected to be a man, had his arms wrapped tightly around my abdomen. He flipped me over and raised his head to slam into mine. Luckily he hadn’t thought to pin my arms down and his mistake allowed me to throw them in front of my face and create a force field that even the thickest of skulls couldn’t penetrate. I looked briefly to see Sam being pinned down as well on the second truck but couldn’t free myself to go help him. 

And then, in a conflicting twist of events, a red white and blue shield came flying through the air.

As I struggled to keep the force field up and my arms locked, I made out an equally patriotic suited man throw the shield at the one who had punched me earlier. A second figure swung in from a helicopter and kicked her off the truck, leaving her clinging to the edge of the roof. The shield flew in the direction of the people holding Bucky down and hit one square in the back before bouncing back to its wielder. The guy holding me down was struck next and rolled right off of me, I sent a significantly bigger blast towards his chest that sent him flying off the back of the truck. Bucky reached down and helped me stand up, he pulled me out of the way when the shield came flying by our faces to hit his other attackers.

“You gotta be kidding me,” I panted.

John Walker stopped briefly to introduce himself to Sam, like he hadn’t been living rent free in our minds since that damned tv broadcast before sending the shield flying past Bucky and I again. As it bounced off our enemies and back towards Walker, Bucky’s metal hand snapped up to grab it only for Walker to retake it. The time for anger or sadness wasn’t now, though the forlorn expression on Bucky’s face said otherwise. I broke from him and launched myself across the gap between trucks to land near where Sam was being attacked. Bucky followed suit and we began taking out each person one by one till Sam stood and turned too fast, hitting and sending Bucky plus one of the masked thugs over the side of the truck. Sam and I turned to face our last attacker who was stalking toward us, Sam glanced over his shoulder quickly before looking back ahead. “When I say ‘now,’ you shoot up,” he ordered, “Now!” I blasted upwards and over the overhead road sign he’d known would hit our attacker. I was too high to drop down suddenly but watched as Sam touched back down on the truck to be punched off the truck, activating his wings and catching himself in the wind. I flew downwards and lined up with the side of the truck, searching frantically for Bucky while trying to dodge the cars to my left. Bucky was clinging for dear life to the underside of the truck. His attacker stomped his metal arm with his boot till Bucky lost his grip with it and it dragged along the road creating a flurry of sparks. 

“Sam, what do we do?” I yelled into my comm. “Now when I say ‘drop,’ you drop.” “Are you insane?!” I screeched, looking down at the asphalt and trying to calculate how fast I may be going. “DROP!”

Putting the most trust I ever had in Sam, I stopped the energy flow and was tackled mid-air by him. I twisted in his arms to wrap my legs around one of his and my arms around his back. Without warning, he flew us under the nearest truck before letting go of me with one arm and tackling Bucky. I readjusted my grip to have one arm around both of them. We dropped out of the air and crash-landed, rolling like a grunting and groaning wheel through a field of yellow flowers. Eventually we ceased our tumbling with Bucky on top of Sam and me to the side still clinging to both of them.

“Could have used that shield,” Bucky ground out tauntingly in Sam’s face.

“Get off of me,” Sam strained, shoving Bucky off with another loud grunt. I rolled to his other side and coughed loudly, having had the wind knocked out of me during the crash. The three of us lay on our backs trying to regain our breath, Sam and I more than Bucky but I chalked that up to the fact that he was just as strong as the people we’d just gotten our asses handed to us by. “Those were all Super Soldiers, Sam,” he stated in awe. 

“I know,” Sam confirmed, “You’re welcome, by the way.” He pushed himself up painfully on an elbow to lean over me, “Are you okay?”

I was finally starting to feel like I could get some semblance of a normal breath in. I’d have wished it was running around with AJ and Cass that would have showed me I was out of shape and not losing a fight to Super Soldiers. “‘Big Three’ my ass, Wilson,” I wheezed, making no effort to sit up yet.

“I said ‘might be’,” Sam weakly fought, “‘Might be.’ Clearly I was wrong.” 

“Will wonders never cease?” Bucky winced as he sat up, “We need to get to the airport and reformulate.” “Oh, do we now? Do we need to reformulate?” Sam mocked from the ground, “I hadn’t thought of that yet, Bucky, what an incredible-“ I groaned loudly and forced my torso up, “Dear God above, if you two don’t stop acting like twelve year olds, I’ll catch a Delta flight home.” “Good, that’s where I wanted you,” Sam reprimanded as he rose to join me, “I told you if you took some stupid risk, you were going back home and what did you do? You took off on your own towards those trucks!” “I was trying to help him,” I threw my hand out towards Bucky, “One way or another I would have gotten hurt, Sam, whether I’d have waited for you or not. And now that I’ve actually seen what we’re dealing with? No way am I going home.” I rolled onto my knees and got to my feet, my muscles aching with each movement I made to stand in front of the two men. “When you two decide to start acting like adults, I’ll meet you back at the jet.”

Holding in each groan that wanted to escape my mouth, I started my trek back towards the road, not making it very far until I heard two pairs of footsteps behind me.

We walked that way for most of the way, Sam and Bucky muttering something every once in a while to each other and me ahead of them trying to wrap my head around the situation. I had gotten myself tangled in the world of super soldiers, ones who weren’t using their advanced capabilities to save the world from one of the actual Big Three. Not only that but we’d had the displeasure of being rescued by the person the three of us had wanted to see least in the world. I had started the day out having coffee with Sarah on our back porch and by eastern standard time zone’s definition was ending it in Germany mid-afternoon with a killer bruise developing on my cheek. Whatever I had expected to come from joining Sam, it sure as hell wasn’t this.

A car honk summoned me out of my thoughts, an open roofed vehicle came up beside me and I was quick to identify the passengers. John Walker and the helicopter soldier. 

“So that didn’t go as planned, huh?” Walker attempted to make friendly conversation, specifically with Sam and Bucky but I could sense I was also welcome to answer. I didn’t cease my movements and neither did Sam and Bucky which only caused Walker to instruct the driver to get ahead of us again. “Look, at least we know what we’re up against now, huh? And we’re pretty sure it’s one of the Big Three, so…” “Aliens, androids, or wizards?” the unnamed soldier double checked with Walker, who responded that he was still almost certain.

“There’s no such thing as wizards,” Bucky grumbled from behind me, sounding like the old man he biologically was.

“Then it’s aliens, or androids,” Walker shrugged. “Or Super Soldiers,” Sam corrected.

“Shit, Super Soldiers, for real?” Walker’s sidekick asked before turning in his seat to face, “Do you believe that?” “I believe that you two don’t know how to take a hint,” I frustratedly smiled at him, “But yes, I do.”

“Wow. All right, well, then we gotta work together,” Walker said. Bucky scoffed, “That’s not happening.”

“I think we stand a much better chance if we all just-“ Bucky finally lost his patience and said the thing we all were thinking, “Just ‘cause you carry that shield, it doesn’t mean you’re Captain America.”

Walker was quick to defend himself, “Look, I’ve done the work, okay?” 

Bucky was equally as quick to prove him wrong, “You ever jump on top of a grenade?” “Yeah. Actually, I have. Four times,” Walker explained, “It’s a thing I do with my helmet. It’s a reinforced helmet. It’s a long story, but, look…It’s 20 miles to the airport, you guys need a ride.” A sudden cramp tore through my shin causing me to sharply inhale and grab the leg. Through the pain I managed to exhale and begin limping back along the path, “We’re good, thanks.”

“At least let us take her, she’s injured,” I heard Walker attempt to convince Sam and Bucky, knowing that I was probably a means to an end to get them in the car. 

I didn’t get very far before I felt Sam’s arm wrap around my waist, “C’mon…” As much as I wanted to fight him on it, I knew I wouldn’t make it more than a few steps before I was bent over again in pain. The adrenaline had worn off and my whole body was starting to ache deeply in a way that made even breathing hurt where it shouldn’t. I dropped my head in frustration and nodded, putting my arm around Sam’s shoulder to let him brace me. He helped me limp back to the car where Bucky gently handled my other side, the two of them lifted me into the vehicle where Walker and his friend tried to help me sit down. I shrugged off their unwelcome hands and used the roof’s poles to lower myself into a seat. Sam jumped in and sat on one side of me, gently lifting the leg that was really bothering me onto his lap to try and massaging my shin. Bucky climbed in on my other side and gave me a once over, trying to assess if I was in any further pain that I wasn’t letting on to.

“Okay,” Walker began as the car rocked to life again, “So we’ve got eight Super Soldiers on a bulk supply run. Why?” “They say their mission is to get things back to the way it was during The Blip,” Sam explained, “Maybe they’re just trying to help.” “They had a funny way of showing it,” Bucky commented.

“That serum doesn’t exactly have a great track record,” Walker quickly looked to Bucky, “No offense.” I tried not to judge people too harshly upon first meeting them, but I had no problem deciding right away that Walker was an asshole.

“We need to figure out where they’re going,” Sam spoke up before an argument could break out, “How’d you track ‘em here? The Flag Smashers?”

“Uh, no, we didn’t track them. We tracked you, uh, through Redwing,” Walker’s friend answered, dipping his head down to avoid Sam’s stony gaze.

“You hacked my tech?” “Sorry,” Walker laughed, “It’s not exactly hacking. It’s government property,” he gestured to himself, “Kind of the government.” My lips parted and I tilted my head, ”Are you kidding me?”

“I’m sorry,” Walker extended his hand out to me, “John Walker, Captain America. And you are?” I glanced between his hand and him, “Not impressed.” He awkwardly retracted it and turned away from me to Bucky, “Does he always just stare like that?” “You get used to it,” Sam replied, suddenly he had no problem with Bucky’s habit.

“Okay, look,” Walker cleared his throat, “You know things have gotten kind of, uh…” “Chaotic,” his friend finished for him.

“Yeah. The GRC, they’re doing the best they can to get things up and running smoothly, post Blip.” “Reactivating citizenship, social security, healthcare. Basically just managing resources for the refugees who were displaced by the return.”

“The Global Repatriation Council does all that, I get that,” Sam said impatiently, “So why exactly are you two here?”

“Well, they provide the resources and we keep things stable,” the soldier answered.

“Yeah, violent revolutionaries aren’t usually good for anyone’s cause,” Walker said. “Usually said by the people with the resources,” Sam looked up from the work he was doing on my leg to look dead at Walker.

“We got a lot of resources,” he stated confidantly, “If you guys, if you joined up with us, we could-“ “No,” Bucky and I said in unison, now having agreed on two things. Walker was a phony and wizards weren’t real.

“I got mad respect for both of ya’ll,” Walker’s friend complimented, “You too, ma’am. But you were kinda getting your asses kicked till we showed up.” Bucky finally dragged his stare off of Walker, “Who are you?” “Lemar Hoskins.” “Look, I see a guy hanging out of a helicopter in tactical gear, I need a lot more than Lemar Hoskins,” Sam commented.

“I’m Battlestar,” Lemar reintroduced himself, “John’s partner.” “‘Battlestar?’” Bucky echoed the ridiculous nickname, snapping his head suddenly toward the driver, “Stop the car!”

The driver obeyed and quickly halted in the middle of the road, giving Bucky the opportunity to jump out of the car. He raised his eyebrows expectantly, waiting for me to join him but I wasn’t about to leave Sam’s side. I held a hand up to him to which he responded by closing the back door and starting down the path that veered off the main road. 

“Look, I…I get it, okay? I get the attitude, I do,” Walker started, he couldn’t come close to understanding how insulted all three of us were for one uniting reason, “You don’t think that the shield was gonna end up here. I get it, Bucky,” even the call of his name wasn’t enough to make him stop, “And I’m…I’m not trying to be Steve. I’m not trying to replace Steve.” “Could’ve fooled me,” I snorted, removing my leg from Sam’s lap as he’d stopped rubbing it long ago. “I’m just trying to be the best Captain America I can be, that’s it,” Walker focused his eyes on my brother, “It’d be a whole lot easier if I had Cap’s wingmen on my side.” Sam scoffed and looked out of the corner of his eyes at me as if to make sure he hadn’t heard incorrectly. He hadn’t, and I was about two seconds away from putting my powers to good use and beating Walker with his own shield that he could never truly hold ownership of. “It’s always that last line…”

Sam climbed over me and hopped out first before helping to lower me to the ground. A defeated Walker ordered the driver to leave and we watched to make sure they actually left for good. “Torres said he’s nice?” I asked sarcastically as we resumed our familiar posture of Sam helping me walk. “Torres is young, impressionable and follows every order he’s given. Guys like Walker have a problem with anyone who doesn’t take their every word as gospel.”

“Well, your mom made us attend enough church when we were kids for me to know that right there,” I pointed back to the car that was now a dot in the distance, “Is a false prophet.” 

I trained my eyes ahead of us, Bucky hadn’t gotten too far and it looked like he had actually slowed his pace for us to catch up easier. While I was angry with the government for appointing Walker and the man himself, I knew that the pain Sam and Bucky were feeling was exponentially heavier to deal with. They’d already lost their friend and Walker was the salt being rubbed in the wound.

When we did eventually make it to the plane an hour later, I was biting back tears at how much pain I was in. Sam took notice of how I was trying to conceal them as we approached the tarmac and carried me the rest of the way. 

“I gotta check for any internal bleeding,” he said as he set me down gently on the seats of the jet, “And you’re going home.” “No, I’m not,” I moaned. “Yes, you are,” he scolded as he lifted up my shirt to the bottom of my bra so that he could get a clear view of my abdomen, “Sarah’s gonna pound my ass into the ground as it is for bringing you back bruised.” My eyes could no longer stay opened, further fluttering shut as I didn’t hear Sam state that he saw anything concerning. “Get some sleep,” he ordered, “I’ll take care of anything I find.” Just before I drifted off, I heard a second body kneel down next to Sam. “She okay?” “Yeah, she’ll be fine,” he answered Bucky, “I just should have never brought her.” 

————

When I did wake up, the plane was dark except for the minimal lighting towards the cockpit. I attempted to sit up, biting back a groan as I did. There was a blanket draped over my bottom half and my jacket was now folded underneath my head as a makeshift pillow. Sam was sleeping upright near my feet, arms crossed and snoring quietly.

“Glad to see you’re okay,” a quiet voice startled me, I turned to see it was Bucky. “A little out of my depth,” I remarked, rubbing one of my eyes, “But yeah, okay.” 

Bucky nodded and looked back down at his folded hands, for some reason the contrast of the gold and black metal meeting the pale flesh fascinated me. He must’ve sensed I was staring because he peered up at me through his lashes. I quickly looked away, “I’m guessing we’re on our way back to New Orleans.” “Baltimore, actually,” he replied.

“What’s in Baltimore?” I whispered, trying not to wake Sam. “Someone that Sam needs to meet.” “Okay,” I slowly swung my legs off the seats to properly face him, “Who’s in Baltimore?” Bucky gave me a tired look, “Just someone, you’ll meet him too.” I bristled slightly at his answer, shooting him a half smile. “You don’t trust people, do you, Barnes?”

I wouldn’t call what his lips did was a smile, but maybe a sarcastic knock off of one. “You ask a lot of questions, you know?”

“Only when people don’t give me any answers,” I fired back in a contradictorily easy tone, “Look, you don’t have to trust me. That’s fine, I’m going home after whatever surprise you have for us anyway so you won’t have to deal with me slowing you guys down anymore.” “Sam was endangering you by bringing a civilian to an Avengers level fight,” he quickly said, “That’s on him, not you. And none of us were exactly at our best today.” A supercut of the three of us each getting slapped around silly on top of the trucks played in my mind. He was definitely right, nobody could have predicted that we’d be thrown for such a loop. Not even the man pretending to be Captain America. “For what it’s worth, I’m sorry about Walker,” I offered as softly as I could, “I’ve watched him parade that shield around on tv for days and I’ve gotten angrier each time. Not saying it’s the same as what you’re feeling but…I’m just sorry.” Bucky didn’t respond, he actually looked away from me and back down at his hands. “You should get some more sleep, we’re still a ways out.” It was clear I wasn’t going to get anywhere with him, not that I felt any burning desire to try to get him to open up. I’d only tried out of politeness and the slight glimmer of curiosity I held when it came to what lay beneath his hardened surface. “Goodnight, Barnes,” I said, laying back down and rolling over so I didn’t have to look at him any longer.

----

A/N: Let me know what you thought and/or if you’d like to be tagged! There’s still a lot of surprises that are coming...

Safe Haven taglist: @tanyaherondale​ @wanniiieeee​ @asoftie4bucky​ @edencherries​ @i-reblog-fics-i-like​ @ttalisa​ @gcfty @withyoutilltheendofthismess​ @rinaispunk​ @weirdowithnobeardo​ @felicityofbakerstreet​ @godlypotterwhodiaries​ @eternalharry​ @voguesir​ @mizz-kraziii​ @okayline​ @smellmymisunderstoodfluff @wanderin-stories​ @nicklet94 @intricate-melody​ @aesthethickks​ @stumbleonmywords​ @simplybarnes​ @21bruhs​ @lostinwonderland314​ @superbookishhufflepuff​ @themaddies-obx

[navegandoaciegas]

I love my baby to death

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Reader 

Warnings: fluff, friends to lovers, tiniest bit of angst but really tiny I promise, 3.5k words, set after Endgame

Summary:  “Say, hypothetically, there’s a 100 year old fossil who’s a bit confused most of the time but he’s got the spirit, right?, and he’s outside with a packed duffle bag, what would you do?”

You were supposed to enjoy a solo roadtrip after years of Avenging, but Bucky invites himself along and you can’t say no to his happy face.

A/N: I haven’t slept in a week because of nightmares and I just needed something to cheer me up, I guess. Reader took Steve’s side in CA:CW and spent two years with him as a nomad. You can choose to see her and Natasha as a platonic relationship or a romantic one, it’s up to you.

masterlist

Read the sequel to this here

“They’re just so fuckin’ gross I don’t understand how you can eat them.”

Bucky sends you his best death glare as he continues digging in his soggy cardboard In-N-Out fries.

“We could have literally stopped by Arby’s three miles west of here” you continue, “they have the best fries. We’re missing out, clearly.” you deadpan eyeing his food skeptically. 

“The curly ones? God no, they’re so spicy. I don’t know why you like your food to hurt but I don’t.”

“Okay, first of all they’re not spicy at all, I don’t know where you got that from. And second, they have a taste at least, unlike these.” You reiterate your point by swinging one the fries in his face. Bucky just grabs your hand and bites the fry, almost biting your fingers off too.

“Yeah, like that god-awful spicy chicken you forced on me the other day? No thank you, ma’am, I’ll stand by my own food choices.” 

You snort. “Not my fault your post-Depression ass can’t handle anything other than salt and black pepper. But sure, go ‘head and enjoy your sorry excuse of a meal, Buck.”

“People from your generation sure love complaining, huh? Back in my days you ate what your mama made you and never bitched about it, or else you went to bed hungry.” 

God, he’s such a grampa. You make a show of rolling your eyes and huffing in annoyance. He likes his senior citizen card a bit too much. He tries to stifle a laugh when he sees the look on your face and just shakes his head at you. 

California (and Bucky Barnes) has stolen your heart and you’ve loved this road trip so much you often wonder why it took you being snapped and facing the end of the world twice to retire from the avenging business. 

Fresno is interesting, to say the least. 

He wanted to stop by, saying something about wanting to see “an old pal from the war” ’s hometown for himself, and you’ve been dreaming about exploring Yosemite for as long as you can remember.

-

Online pictures of Yosemite National Park were stunning but the real thing is just breathtaking. 

You never thought camping would become your thing and you never imagined you’d enjoy stargazing so much. In five months you’ve discovered how big of a nerd Bucky really is and he’s been trying to teach you the names of all the stars and constellations. 

He sees Big Dipper, Orion, Ursa Major and Minor; you see pretty twinkling lights and the occasional shooting star. Nevertheless you sit through hours and hours of explanations, because when he speaks of the things he’s passionate about, Bucky is the most beautiful thing in the world.

“You know, the stars are one of the things I missed the most.” he says softy, furrowing his brows as he does when he remembers something from the past. “Stevie and I used to do that as kids sometimes. We’d sneak out of our houses and go on the roof of this abandoned building to watch the stars. Now there’s so much goddamn light everywhere, you can’t even see them anymore.”

Sometimes when you stop and think about it, really think, you can’t imagine how hard it must have been for them, having everything, even the night sky taken away from them. 

“Steve never told me.” 

“He probably missed the stars too.”

You eye him looking for clues on how he might feel, but you only see a sad smile on his face. “You miss him, don’t you?”

“Every damn day.” his voice cracks and you hold him closer.

“I know Buck, I miss him too. I miss him so much that sometimes I feel like my life has no direction without my Captain.” You’re barely holding back your own tears at this point, “But we’ve got Sam if we need orders, yes?” but you still try to make him smile. You’re always going to try for him.

Your attempt works and he snorts. Always bring Sam up to cheer Bucky.

“I hope he was happy, you know.” he says, “I hope he made the right choice and never regretted a thing. I hope that now he looks back and thinks he wouldn’t have had it any other way. His happiness is all I could ever ask for.”

You cling to each other that night and cry until the early morning. It feels good to let it all out, to let Steve go and look at the future. You’ve lost too much but tonight you only have hope.

-----

New York

Five months before

“Words on the street is you’re retiring your crusty old ass from the field.” 

Sam is leaning on the door of your hotel room with his arms folded and a pleased look on his face.

“Rumors travel fast in this post-apocalyptic word, I see.” you say as you continue stuffing a duffle bag with all the clothes you have left.

“How are you?” Sam asks, with his newly found Captain voice. You wonder if it’s something in that damn shield that gives them that stern commanding tone.

“Tryina analize me, Sammy? I’m not one of your guys at the VA.”

It’s not like you’re pissed at Sam, you love him with all your heart, you’re just angry at the world and Sam’s the one standing in your way right now.

You hear him sigh, “I know what you’re feeling right now, I understand why you would think that-” “Don’t” you interrupt him, “Don’t give me that speech, Fury did that for you already. I’m not running away from my problems.”

“I’m not saying that-” you really don’t want him to talk today, so you stop him again “No but you’re thinking it.”

“I know what it’s like.” he says raising his voice “To lose who you care the most in the world. We all lost someone important but you lost Natasha and I know, trust me I know what you feel right now, because it’s what I felt when I lost Riley.” 

You stop and swallow the tight lump in your throat.

Your eyes well up with tears as you turn to look at him. You’ve been so blinded by your own pain and anger you didn’t stop for a moment to think about others. “I’m sorry Sam, I shouldn’t have treated you like that.” you say sobbing.

Why did she have to leave you?

Stupid, stupid Natasha. Why did she have to sacrifice herself for the world?

Why her?

He hugs you tight and rocks you back and forth. “I understand why you’re leaving and I’m not here to stop you, I promise. Just keep in touch, yes? Text me everyday so I’m not tempted to track you down and fly wherever you are to see if you’re good.”

You smile for the first time in a long time.

“Don’t worry Sam, you’ll get tired of all the selfies I’ll send you, eventually.” 

“You know I’ll never get tired of this pretty face.” he says raising his eyebrows suggestively, making you laugh. “Good, that’s my girl. I missed this laugh so much.”

You stay in his arms a while longer until it’s time for you to leave.

“This is not the only reason I’m here.” he says and clears his throat, “Say, hypothetically, there’s a 100 year old fossil who’s a bit confused most of the time but he’s got the spirit, right?, and he’s outside with a packed duffle bag, what would you do?”

“What?” you manage to stammer out. “Bucky just... wants to...tag along?” 

You are now as confused as Bucky is most of the time.

Sam shrugs. “I guess? You know he’s weird like that.”

What he really means is he’s just like you, lost and confused and in desperate need to live a little, but he doesn’t say it out loud. There’s no need to.

“So, would you mind if he came too?”

You see Bucky standing outside, leaning on your SUV. He’s cut his hair short and he looks hotter than you would like to. He turns around and waves at you with a big smile on his face. Like Sam often says, you too like his energy.

“No, I wouldn’t mind at all.”

----

Denver, Colorado

It’s a long way from New York to Colorado and if you’re honest, you’ve loved every minute of it and you’re glad Bucky came along with you. He’s witty, laid back, snarky, smart and overall a fun guy for someone who was a prisoner to nazis for 70 years.

“Look all I’m saying is I think Edward is a fuckin’ creep. Would you like it if someone stood in your room and looked at you while you sleep?”

“But is that someone a hot vampire, Bucky?”

“It literally doesn’t even matter.”

“Stop saying literally Buck, you’re a 100 year old man, not a valley girl.”

-

“Are we there yet?”

“No.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.”

“Lemme check a map.”

“Bucky it’s on the screen there, Google says we have 20 minutes left.”

“But can we trust this Google guy?”

-

“All I’m saying is if you made and enjoyed congealed salads you probably don’t deserve your right to vote for the future of this country.”

“I mean...fair enough?”

-

“Do we count blipped years or not?”

“At this point it, it barely makes a difference in my case, doll.”

“Honestly you’ve got a point, old man.”

-

“How are you so calm right now?”

“My standards are so low it’s practically impossible to piss me off.”

“But you aren’t even a little bothered?”

“Chill, it’s just a flat tire, it’s gonna take 10 minutes to fix.”

“Buck we talked about the things that are unacceptable. ��Chill’ coming out of your mouth is one of those.”

It’s your second week in Denver already, and you’re having the time of your life. 

Bucky is spooning you like he usually does. You think back to the first time you’ve shared a bed and you almost giggle at the memory. 

“Uh, Buck?”

“Yes?”

“We might have a problem.”

He enters the room after you and his eyes widen when he sees it.

There’s a bed in the room.

A single bed.

You weren’t expecting much from this place that gives you ‘Bates Motel’ vibes, but you thought you’d have two beds, or at least a couch.

“I’ll just sleep on the floor, don’t worry about it.”

“What?” you shriek “Absolutely not, I’m not letting you suffer all night. We’re going to share.”

“But I-”

“No buts, you know how many times I slept with Steve? I’m used to you supersoldier men by now, I’m no longer affected by your kicks.”

He stays silent. “You and Steve used to…?”

Only then you realize you could have phrased it better.

“God no, I meant just, ya know, share bed.”

He smiles and nods. Why does he look relieved?

Now he clings to you every night, and most times he’s the little spoon because he likes to be held. You used to hate sleeping tangled with someone else until you woke up on top of Bucky, his hands caressing your back, and he told you he had the best night of sleep he’s had in decades.

There’s a lot of things you do just because they make him happy, actually.

But how could you not?

There’s no point in denying your feelings.

----

Salt Lake City, Utah

God, you love Utah.

You drive through immense stretches of red desert whilst Bucky blasts Nicki Minaj like his life depends on it; that’s how it always ends up when he rides shotgun.

He insisted on visiting Monument Valley despite it being out of your way, but you can never find it in yourself to refuse him anything, so you drove 9 hours straight from Denver to the southern border of Utah just so he could see a place that looks a lot like the ones in those Western cowboy movies from the 50s and 60s he loves so much.

“Yasha would have hated it here so much.” you say as you pull over the Airbnb you’ve rented for a couple of days in Salt Lake City.

He snorts, “Yeah, I bet she would have.”

You thought time would heal all wounds and that someday you might stop feeling the void in your life when you think of her, but now you know you’ll never stop hurting. She was such a big part of your life for so long that your heart will never stop aching for her. 

Sometimes you think how she never got to see you again after you were snapped. 

You wonder if she ever stopped missing you.

You know you’ll never not miss her.

-

You’ve driven for more than humanly possible in two days, but he’s a supersoldier and you’re really stubborn, and now you can’t wait to sleep in a nice bed for the first time in a long while. Usually you just make do with motels, but tonight you wanted to treat yourselves.

You enter the place and notice immediately the two queen size beds. 

You should be relieved, and if it was 4 months ago when you first shared a bed you would probably be, but now you’re so used to his warm body next to yours, his flesh arm over you and his face resting in the crook of your neck that you don’t know if you’ll ever be able to fall asleep without him.

“I’ll go shower first if you don’t mind.” you say as you mentally berate yourself for your thoughts. 

Your goal to not fall in love with Bucky Barnes flew out the window somewhere in the green fields of Western Iowa, but at this point you’re just treading a dangerous path and you know you’re going to get hurt.

There’s no way Bucky feels the same about you, right?

You get out the shower, put on a t-shirt you’ve stolen from Steve ages ago and get out of the bathroom, only to stop when you see Bucky on the bed you claimed as yours.

“Sorry, I hope you don’t mind but I feel better when I sleep with you.”

Maybe he does.

----

Nevada

Technically it takes roughly 43 hours to get from New York to Sacramento by car. It took you almost five months.

You’ve been covering Interstate 80, stopping and visiting towns, cities and parks along the way as you pleased, sleeping in seedy motels, your SUV or that fancy ass tent Bucky bought somewhere in Ohio. You’ve begged Bucky to drive from Salt Lake City straight to Sacramento, stopping only when it’s absolutely necessary; you’ll be visiting Nevada after California anyways, so for now you’re just enjoying the scenic drive, with the windows rolled down and the air messing up your hair.

“What’s that song called?” Bucky asks and raises the radio’s volume.

“That’s Dani California by Red Hot Chili Peppers.” you answer absentmindedly, distracted by the seemingly endless stretch of black asphalt and yellowish nothingness around it.

She’s lover, baby and a fighter

Shoulda seen it coming when I got a little brighter

Bucky sings along and smiles glancing your way.

“I like this.” he exclaims when the song ends “Can we listen to it again, please?”

You smile softly and play it again. If there’s one thing Bucky is capable of is listening to the same song on repeat multiple times until you’re so sick of it you don’t ever want to hear it again.

 Who knew the other side of you

Who knew what others died to prove

You never thought Bucky would be like this, or that you’d be privileged enought to see this side of him.

There’s a big smile on his face and the orange hues of the sky reflect in his clear eyes. He’s got one hand on the steering wheel and the vibranium one resting on the car’s door and he looks so different from the man haunted by his past and loneliness you met in Budapest all those years ago. He looks so carefree and relaxed now, so happy. 

You are proud of him.

California rest in peace

Simultaneous release

California show your teeth

She’s my priestess and I’m your priest

I love my baby to death

------

San Diego, California 

You’ve hiked the hills of southern Cali and gone parapending in Torrey Pines. You landed on a breathtaking beach with beautiful dark sand and soon found out, much to Bucky’s dismay and utter disgust, that it was a nudist beach.

He grumbled something about ‘hygiene’ and ‘decor’ and you just laughed at his flustered state.

“First time seeing a naked woman, old man?” you asked in between fits of laughter.

You didn’t notice the sea lion swimming next to you in La Jolla and not even Thanos’ creepy gang could have scared you as much when you turned around and looked him dead in the eyes. Bucky got his revenge filming you as you shot out the ocean with a shrill, covered in algae and terrified. 

You are loving the San Diego area so far. Minus the sea lions.

“Hey I- uh- do you mind if I take the car? I wanted to go do some shopping.” Bucky tells you.

He’s really embarrassed for some reason.

You shrug and mumble a ‘sure’ before going back to basking in the sun by the pool of the hotel you’re staying at.

“Okay, I-I guess I’ll g-go then, I’ll come pick you up at 5.30 for dinner.” he stutters out.

Weird, you think, but you don’t give it too much thought. Bucky is like that.

-

Dinner time rolls around and as promised Bucky comes pick you up on time.

You’re wearing a short green dress with white daisies printed on it and a pair of strappy white sandals. You look good and you know it; Bucky knows it too, judging from the glances he tries to sneak your way.

“So, uhm-” he clears his voice, “I know it’s going to sound weird but I promise it’s not. Can I- Can I blindfold you?”

Can he...what? You could split me in half and I’d be glad about it, you’d like to say.

“Kinky. You could at least buy me differ first, tho.” you settle for something safer instead.

He blushes three shades darker than his usual color and you take the black scarf he’s handing you, barely concealing a teasing smile.

He drives around for a while. When you get to your destination the first thing you hear is the waves beating on the shore and the smell of the ocean. He helps you get out and guides you somewhere.

“Wait here.” 

You hear him park the car in reverse, open the trunk and fiddle with something. He comes up behind you and removes the blindfold. You feel his hot breath on your neck and it sends tingles down your spine straight to your pu- “You can look now.”

When you open your eyes you are stunned for a moment. You turn around with a big smile that turns even bigger when you notice the blankets and the little picnic he’s assembled in the trunk.

“Buck, this is- I can’t believe you remembered.”

Somewhere in Colorado you mentioned how romantic you thought Sunset Cliffs were, and how much you wished you could do something like this. It was a fleeting moment, a thought uttered out loud absentmindedly over a couple of drinks in some bar. You were tipsy and you were running your mouth about all the things you’d want in a partner to some random girl who became your best friends for the night.

You realize you’re tearing up when his fingers grace your cheeks.

It feels nice to be cared about so much. It’s been too long since someone took such good care of you.

“I thought I’d do something special for you.” he says with an adorable blush.

“Thank you Bucky, I love this.” you hug him tightly and bury your face in his chest, inhaling his scent.

“Anything for my girl.”

“When did I become your girl, huh?” you ask teasingly.

“Probably when I invited myself on this trip.”

You both laugh at that.

You swallow hard when you see the look on his face. God, how did you miss the signs? You were always a better sniper than a spy, Yasha always told you.

Your heart is beating out of your chest in anticipation as he leans down slowly and your lips brush lightly. His hands are on your waist and yours on his broad shoulders. He kisses you timidly at first, and more passionately as he gains confidence. 

“I wanted to do this since Bucharest.” he confesses after your lips part.

“Took you long enough, Sarge.”

But it was worth the wait.

-

Tonight’s sunset will be burned in the back of your mind permanently. 

You kiss and laugh some more, and feed eachother seedless grapes because they’re the only ones you eat. He’s brought strawberries, white wine because you don’t drink red, hummus and pita and an assortment of cheese and crackers.

You kiss and talk, cuddle, laugh and kiss some more all night.

You’ve accepted long ago that you’ll never fill the gaping hole in your lives, but that night when you make love to eachother the void in your hearts that Steve and Natasha left behind doesn’t seem as encompassing as it usually is.

---

Thank you for reading! If you liked it, please reblog and comment, feedback is always appreciated 🥺🤲 might fuck around and write Bucky’s POV too.

[a-small-batch-of-dragons]

Three in the Morning

Prompt: May i ask for a short story of Sam and Bucky being platonic boyfriends? Bucky is having a rough day (flashbacks, or panic/anxiety attacks??) And Sam helps him? Or Sam is having a shit day and Bucky tries to help? I just one of them being hurt and them comforted by the other? Plz and thanks

Ahhh no thank you it feels good to be back in the marvel mode. Tfatws SLAPPED let’s be real. Also they didn’t have to go so hard with the bisexual energy in that last episode but they sure as hell did

Read on Ao3

Warnings: our boi sam got PTSD and it ain’t great, other than that, all fluff

Pairings: sambucky, can be platonic or romantic I don’t care

Word Count: 2597

 It’s been one of those days. Where suddenly there’s a little kid on the corner of the street and all he can think of is how much Riley would’ve loved walking around New York with him, seeing everyone living. Not trying to accomplish anything past just today. Nothing else but just existing. But then when Sam looks behind him, Riley’s not there.

Or then he wakes up in the middle of the night and all he can hear is the soldiers on the ground, telling him not to let them die. And he looks down at his hands expecting to see them covered in blood only to see them shaking in the dark.

 So he stumbles into the kitchen because God knows he won’t get back to sleep tonight and he knows he needs to get some food and liquids into his body. He stops when he sees Bucky behind the counter. He glances up when he rounds the corner and gives him a little wave.

 He’s baking. At…three in the morning. By the light of the under-cabinet bulbs, near-silent, Bucky Barnes is baking in the kitchen at three in the morning.

  Since when does Bucky know how to bake?

 Bucky motions for him to sit, which he does. He tries to open his mouth and ask what’s going on. Bucky doesn’t look away from his work and slides a full glass of water across the counter along with a bowl of pretzels.

 Huh.

 He downs the water pretty quickly, watching him roll out the dough and cut it into little circles on the tray. Is he…?

 Sam snaps out of his daze when Bucky carefully takes the empty glass and turns to the fridge. The soft click-buzz of the water dispenser begins to cut through the static in his head. The glass slides back to him. Bucky goes back to work, still quiet.

 He keeps drinking, slower this time, as he watches Bucky separate the dough, place the clean-cut circles onto a tray covered in baking paper, and re-roll the remains to be used again. In the dim light, his metal arm looks almost wet.

 It isn’t until that arm reaches out to take the empty glass again that Sam realizes he’s staring.

 Bucky keeps his glass full until the tray is covered in little round dough pats. He turns, slides the tray into the oven, sets the timer with a few beeps. Then he reaches to grab the kettle—how long has that been there?—and fills the blue beaker of a mug they bought on a whim when they walked into the new little corner shop at the end of the block and felt too awkward leaving without buying anything. He reaches into the cupboard, pulls out a tea bag from whatever herbal mess the neighbors gave them this time, and dunks it in the water.

 He reaches again, taking another mug—the big cream one Sarah practically forced into his hands—and doing the same. He pulls open the drawer and takes one of the softer dish towels and wraps it around the mug. Turning, he sets it carefully in front of Sam and raises his own mug to his lips. Damn metal arm means he doesn’t realize how hot it really is and just about burns his mouth.

 Bucky hides a smile over the rim of his own mug.

 Sam sits, Bucky stands, drinking tea in their kitchen alone at three in the morning. A car drives by outside. The breeze makes the leaf shadows dance on the wall.

 It’s quiet.

 It’s really quiet.

 None of the hectic screaming wheels, none of the chatter of thousands of voices, none of the flashing numbers in his HUD trying to tell him what to do, where to go, what calculation to make next.

 It’s just…quiet.

 Until the oven beeps. Bucky’s quick reflexes keep the volume from deafening them but goddamnit can they invent a ‘night mode’ where the microwave and the oven and the kettle understand that it’s three in the goddamn morning and so they should pipe the fuck down?

 Bucky reaches for the mitt and slides it on. He reaches down and pulls out the tray. He sets it carefully on the stove, reaches out to turn off the oven, and grabs a spatula. Sam’s eyes glued to his back as he turns back and forth, picking up something with the spatula and setting it down on a rack to cool. He could pick up the paper from the tray and move the whole thing at once, but this feels better.

 There’s something about humans really liking simple, repetitive motions. It’s why watching the waves is so calming, watching those gif things that Peter likes to send in the group chat loop over and over and over, not that they’d ever admit that. Watching Bucky turn, bend, lift, and slide the spatula back and forth, back and forth, at three in the morning.

 At last, he sets down the spatula and picks up the plate, turning around and setting it between them on the counter.

 Perfect, golden brown biscuits. Mama Wilson’s favorite comfort food.

 Sam’s stomach growls.

 Bucky’s mouth quirks up in a smile and he turns around, grabbing two little plates from the cupboard and the butter from the fridge. The butter knife makes a clatter as it decides you know what, fuck gravity, and all but jumps out of his hand. Bucky grabs it, looking at it like it just sprouted wings, before shaking his head and setting everything down. He slides his tea mug to the side and takes the top off the butter, stepping back and leaning on the counter. He indicates the plate.

 Sam tilts his head.

 They’re all so fluffy. And round. And brown. And god, they smell incredible. He looks around for the lumpy one.

 The lumpy one is another one of Mama Wilson’s traditions. There’s never really enough dough to make all the perfectly circular biscuits, so the last one just kind of gets…smushed together. It always ended up tasting the best.

 There it is.

 He nods to the biscuit third from the left. Bucky nods, picking up and buttering the top, setting it on one of the little plates. Sam just picks up the biscuit and takes a bite.

 Bucky huffs quietly and picks up the plate to catch his crumbs.

 …damn he’s missed homemade biscuits. The butter melts in his mouth and the biscuit is so, so good.

 “So?” Bucky smiles at him. “How’d I do?”

 “You steal the recipe?”

 “Sarah gave it to me,” he says, picking his own biscuit and reaching for the knife, “thought I’d let it sit in the drawer for too long.”

 “Mm.”

 “Take it that means I did a good job?”

 Sam nods, still munching. A bit of butter drops onto the plate and he shovels the rest of it into his mouth before more can fall. Bucky chuckles.

 “Good thing I made a bunch.”

 “Mhm.” Sam reaches for another one, only to pause and stare at whatever the hell Bucky thinks he’s doing.

 The man has the knife in the biscuit, cutting it in half. Bucky looks up to see why Sam’s frozen only to have the audacity to look confused while Sam’s staring at him like he’s grown another head. Which he has, basically.

 “What the hell are you doing to that poor baked good?”

 “What’re you talking about?” Bucky finishes dissecting the biscuit and cuts a slab of butter, placing it inside like a sandwich and smushing the top back on. “This is how I eat biscuits.”

 “You’re making an abomination over there, that’s what you’re doing.”

 “No, see, ‘cause this way the butter starts to melt and you don’t have as much biscuit without it.”

 “Look at how many crumbs you’re spraying everywhere, you’re letting a quarter of the biscuit escape!”

 “That’s what the plate’s for.”

 Sam shakes his head. “You disrespect the biscuit.”

 “I respect it just fine. You’re the one that refuses to let the butter melt all the way before eating it.”

 “The butter’s not supposed to melt all the way! It’s supposed to be a little cold.”

 “It’s also messier.”

 “What’s the point of eating biscuits and butter if your fingers aren’t sticky by the end of it?”

 Bucky just pops his abomination into his mouth and smirks. He wiggles his fingers.

 “No butter.”

 “Pass me the butter knife.”

 “Don’t knock it till you try it!”

 “Here’s the deal. I’ll give you a biscuit the right way—“

 “You mean your way—“

 “—and you can give me one of your Frankenstein monsters,” Sam says, “and we’ll see.”

 “You’re on.”

 Sam takes a biscuit and slathers butter over the top of it. He holds it out.

 “Thank you,” Bucky says, graciously accepting the plate, “and don’t stare at mine like it’s a piece of gum on the sidewalk.”

 “It ain’t right, Buck.”

 “Why don’t you try it first?”

 Sam bites into the biscuit. Well, the biscuit is still delicious, but…

 “Where’s the butter?”

 “It’s in there.”

 “Where? I can’t taste it!”

 “I put it in there!”

 “Well no wonder it don’t taste right, there’s no butter in here.”

 “I put butter in there!”

 “It just tastes like you cut a biscuit in half and tried to put it back together, there is no butter in here.”

 He looks up to see Bucky pouting—yes, the man pouts—at his metal arm. He looks up at Sam with the most woebegone puppy-dog expression and holds out his hand.

 “I got butter in my fingers.”

 “That’s the point, Buck.”

 “You put so much butter on it!”

 “If you aren’t licking butter off your fingers by the end of it,” he repeats, “you’re doing it wrong.”

 Bucky gives him a look before bringing his hand to his mouth and trying to lick off the butter. It, uh, doesn’t go well.

 “At least it’s not like salt,” he mutters as he wets a rag to try and clean it properly, “you can’t just tell me to add more in this case.”

 “Salt’s a natural flavor enhancer, man, that’s why you put it in the biscuits to begin with.”

 Bucky looks up at him with a smirk. “That sounds like something you’d say when Sarah calls you out for being too sassy.”

 “It’s a natural flavor enhancer,” he defends.

 Bucky chuckles. After a moment, Sam feels his own mouth turn up too.

 It’s the first time all day he’s managed to smile.

 Judging by the way Bucky softens a moment later, setting aside the rag, he’s caught that much too.

 “When I was younger,” he says quietly, leaning against the counter again, “my mamma used to keep a wooden box of recipes in the drawer with the false bottom.”

 He smiles and taps the counter.

 “It was the last drawer on the right, second from the bottom. No one would ever think to look in there if they didn’t know what they were looking for.” He shakes his head. “Just a little wooden box, ‘bout—“ he holds his hands six inches apart— “that big.”

 Sam nods.

 “Just scraps in it,” Bucky continues, picking up his mug of tea again, waiting for Sam to do the same, “magazine clippings, newspaper bits, letters from relatives I couldn’t remember, lids from food containers that went straight into the ‘chuck at assholes box’—“ Sam huffs— “and notebook pages, scribbled down in my horrible six-year-old handwriting.”

 “Oh, I’m sure it was just fine.”

 “I could never get the ‘g’ to look right, it always looked like I was trying to write a nine with a limp.”

 “A limp?”

 “Yeah, like it tried to hop along and sprained its ankle.”

 “Nines are supposed to be curly at the end.”

 “What? No, they aren’t.”

 “You ever looked at your phone? The nine is curly at the end.”

 “Yeah but no one ever writes ‘em like that.”

 “It’s supposed to be like that!”

 “So that’s how you write ‘em?”

“Hell yeah, that’s how I write ‘em.”

 “Well, good for you.” Bucky chuckles. “My ‘g’s looked more like a nine with its tail broken, how’s that?”

 “What’d you do to the ‘g’s, man?”

 “Apparently, six-year-old me decided they were too hard to draw. But Mama never had a hard time deciphering my handwriting.”

 Bucky’s voice goes back to that quiet nostalgia as Sam cups the mug of tea between his palms.

 “She’d pick a scrap from the box and decide that’s what she was gonna bake. A surprise when I came to see what she was doing. Sometimes she’d have me stick my hand in there and grab one instead. Then I’d stick around to help.”

 Bucky huffs a laugh, letting his head drop for a second.

 “But she always had one recipe memorized.”

 Sam shifts. “Which one was that?”

 “Mama Barnes’s chocolate chip cookies,” Bucky murmurs, looking back up, “her favorite thing to bake because she could do it with her eyes closed.”

 He looks up at Sam.

 “Or in the dark, when it was too dangerous to have the lights on.”

 Oh.

  Oh.

 Sam swallows. “Thank you, Buck.”

 Bucky waves him off, shaking his head. “Actually, it’s, uh, kinda selfish of me.”

 Sam frowns as Bucky turns, walking over to another cupboard and taking two bags down from the shelf.

 “Couldn’t decide which one to use,” he says, holding up a bag of name-brand chocolate chips and a fancy chocolate chunk bag from the last big fancy thing they were invited to, “needed your input before I started.”

 Sam blinks. “You’re having cookies and biscuits on the same night?”

 “Well, I’m not going to sleep anytime soon,” he says easily, “and I figured you still owe me from that bet you won.”

 “Oh ho, I see,” Sam says, sliding off the stool, “you think you’re gonna get out of this by making me choose and not me telling you what to do?”

 “I think you’re either gonna sit there and drink that cup of tea while I do this or you’re gonna get your ass over here and help me.”

 “Well then move your ass,” Sam says, bumping lightly into Bucky’s shoulder, “and get to cleaning off that pan.”

 “You haven’t picked yet!”

 “We’re not using those chunks, man, we’re saving those.”

 Bucky shrugs. “Sounds good to me.”

 “And put these outta harm’s way,” he calls, passing Bucky the plate of biscuits, “I ain’t risking you getting butter and flour all over ‘em.”

 Bucky just chuckles and sets the plate on the far end of the counter. He turns around to pass Sam the chocolate chips when Sam takes his hand and just holds it.

 Holds it and breathes.

 Bucky lets him, shifting slightly into guard dog mode, his shoulders dropping as Sam lets his eyes close for a moment.

 In.

 Out.

 “Thanks.”

 Bucky squeezes. “You want the plastic mixing bowl or the ceramic one?”

 “Gimme the ceramic one, these are gonna come out right.”

 “I take it you want the good tray as well, then.”

 “Of course I do, what do you think this is?”

 Baking, together, in the dark, where it’s safe and quiet, at three in the morning.

[ijustwant2write]

Confidence-Bucky Barnes x Powers!Reader

(GIF credit to @sunoficarus​)

Requested by anonymous: ‘Hello there angel! I've been reading your cute imagines lately and they really warmed my heart and got me out of depression cloud! so i tried to be brave and request something bcs i'm usually shy ><~ can i request a Bucky Barnes x Reader oneshot, the reader is kinda a chubby avenger and she has feelings for him but she gets sad bcs she thinks he'll never fall for someone like her bcs sh's not like the other pretty female avengers annnddd.. yeah! XD~♡’

Characters: Bucky Barnes x Reader, Natasha Romanoff x Reader (platonic)

Meanings: (Y/N)=Your name     

Replication=Being able to make a copy of yourself, biological cloning, or the splitting of the body into multiples

Warnings: Insecurity, negative talk about weight/image, sad/crying reader, fluff

                                          *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Opening the fridge, I took out a water bottle, instantly opening it before taking a big swig. We had come back from a mission early afternoon, the team had been away for just over a week, so it was good to be back. Even though I had showered, eaten and unpacked, I still had an immense thirst in me.

"Hey, I'm making toast, you want some?" Natasha asked as she walked in.

"No, I've eaten thank you." I replied, sitting on a stool at the breakfast bar.

As she began making her food, she continued talking."You OK after the last week?"

"Yeah, just tired. The longest mission I've done is four days, it's amazing what a few more days can do to you."

"You were great out there, a real natural. Your powers are much more controlled than they used to be."

"Thanks, it's all down to the training I guess."

"And your confidence."

"Really?"

Nat placed three pieces of bread into the toaster, turning around to face me once the lever was pushed down."Yes! It wasn't like you were extremely shy when you first came, but there's a difference in you."

If only I was this confident around someone else.

“You gonna head up early tonight?” Nat asked.

“Definitely. The last time I used my powers like that was when you guys first brought me in. And that was when I didn’t have as much control over them. I think it’s a good idea, we all need the rest.”

“So am I. Actually, Dr Cho wanted to see you. She said something really medical and science-y to explain why but I made no sense to me. Something about your cells splitting...or recreating?"

"Oh, she did mention that before we left. Think she's trying to help me connect more with my replicas, so that I can confuse whoever we're attacking even more. Thanks for telling me."

She nodded, turning around once the toast popped up. I said goodbye, scrolling on my phone as I made my way to Dr Cho's lab. My power to basically clone multiple versions of myself seemed useless at first, until I figured out how to control them and thought about tactics they were useful in. It was very strategic, everything had to be carefully planned. But now that I was getting used to it, everything seemed like second nature. And I had the team to thank for that. 

"Hey (Y/N), thanks for coming by." Helen greeted as I walked into her lab, holding her tablet as she usually did. 

"Hi. So, am I being wired up to a machine today?" 

She smiled."No, nothing like that. Tony and I have been working together on something that will ensure you can keep track of all your replicas."

Helen turned her back to me, grabbing a tray with what looked like four silver bracelets. She gestured for me to stand by her as she placed the tray on the table in front of us. 

"These are your new accessories." she started, picking up a pair."You'll wear them when on missions, and these will be able to connect you to any replicas you create. It's just to help you keep a better track. And any time they are hurt in anyway, the energy from the hit will drive into your bracelet." 

"Like T'Challa's armour?" 

Helen nodded."But instead of propelling back that energy, it'll just mean your replica can hold the energy and use it as a shield. Say someone was stood behind it and the enemy attacked the replica, the real person behind them would be safe." 

"That's amazing!" 

She held out her hand, wanting me to give her my wrist. I complied, letting her put the bracelets on me. They glowed blue before returning to the silver colour, feeling weightless on me. 

"They're able to become translucent depending on what uniform you're wearing. That way they won't be able to differentiate you from your replicas."

"Wow, thank you." 

"Don't thank me just yet. We still need to trial them. I definitely need Tony for this, just to make sure he's happy with them." 

"I think he's gone to rest right now." 

With a cheeky grin, she said,"Don't worry, he won't mind, this is important." 

Helen left me by myself, and I felt slightly awkward around all of the expensive and confusing technology that surrounded me. A thought flashed in my mind to try out the bracelets, but I decided against it, not wanting to risk anything going wrong. Slipping them off and placing them back on the table, I caught myself in the reflection of the windows. My hands subconsciously moved to my stomach, brushing against it before grabbing the skin; they traced upwards to my forearms, repeating my actions despite my brain screaming that I shouldn't. It grossed me out every time, why would I want to touch those parts of me? 

Turning to look at myself side on, I sighed at how stomach looked, almost wincing as my gaze travelled down to my thighs. All that training, the healthy meals I ate, where were the results? Why didn't I look like Natasha or Wanda? I battled with my conscious everyday over this. The tiniest part of it begged me to not look at myself that way, not to throw my hard work away or belittle myself over such a thing; but that was an extremely rare thing to happen, and that voice was hard to hear. The voice that spoke much too often had something completely different to say. It would force me to look at myself whenever I passed anything reflective, to make sure I looked decent, although I never did. It wanted to point out my flaws, it wanted to make me aware and punish me for looking like this,despite all the hard work I put into training. And training had never been about losing weight, it was purely strengthening, learning how to fight/defend myself as well as keep up with my stamina. 

Taking a deep breath in, I faced myself properly, squeezing my hands in and out of fists as I replicated myself, scanning my eyes over every single version of me. There were seven of me altogether, three replicas on either side of me, and I wondered why I even thought about doing this to myself. I made each replica turn more than the other, meaning I was looking at myself at every angle, and I hated all of them. It wasn't fair. Why was my power to make copies of myself when I didn't even like the one, true version of me? 

"(Y/N)?" someone startled me, my replicas instantly disappearing. 

Whipping around as my concentration broke, my face broke out into a blush as I saw Bucky standing in the doorway. It just had to be him, why couldn't it have been anyone else? 

"Y-yes?" I stuttered, immediately breaking eye contact. 

"Sorry, I needed to speak to Dr Cho." 

"Sh-she, uh, she just left, a-actually." 

"OK, I'll come by later." I glanced up, seeing him move to leave before turning back to me."You sure you're alright?" 

I nodded."Mhm."

He slowly nodded, but mostly to himself."Good job this week by the way, you were great." 

I hated how hot I was feeling after the compliment, even when he was gone I felt embarrassed by myself. Did he see me looking at myself like that? He must have thought I was an absolute weirdo for doing such a thing! 

Helen reappeared, a yawning Tony following in behind her."Right, this shouldn't take too long-" 

"I'm sorry, I don't think I can do this right now." I blurted out."I’m really tired and I want to make sure that the results are accurate." 

They were taken back by my snappy tone, slowly nodding as I refrained from bolting out of the room. Brushing past them, my hands instantly wrapped around my torso, making a beeline towards the elevator. My breaths were sort and sharp as I hit the button, fingers poking into my sides as I crossed them again. Why wasn’t I toned? Why was I able to grab so much skin? Once I was out of the elevator, I picked up the pace towards my room, resisting slamming the door to not gain any more attention. Grabbing the throw at the end of my bed, I threw it over the mirror, making sure I could not see any part of myself before I collapsed onto my bed, covering myself with the bed sheets.

Silent sobs ran through me as I gripped onto the sheets that were bunched up around me. I hated my mind, I hated how I looked, I hated how I could never be at peace with how I looked. Sleep would come to me late tonight, but only once I exhausted myself from crying. And I hoped that I would not dream tonight. 

Waking up, I felt how dry my moth and lips were, and also where the tears had stained my cheeks, as well as my pillow. My neck was aching from the position I had fallen asleep in, it felt worse as I pushed myself up into a sitting position. Rubbing my eyes, I coughed to clear my throat, definitely needing water after I felt how hoarse it was. Although it would have been so much easier to stay holed up in my room all day, avoid questions from everyone (even making small talk could reveal how I was really feeling), staying here would cause more fuss than needed.

"Good morning Miss (Y/L/N)." Vision greeted as I walked the halls.

"Morning." I mustered up the best smile.

"I hope I am not coming across as rude or interfering, but are you alright?"

I nodded, hiding my panic."Yeah, just a little tired from the mission. And I think overwhelmed, it's been my longest one yet."

"That is understandable. Though I am sure the experience will serve you well in future missions, especially with your stamina."

"Yep, hopefully."

Vision hadn't done anything wrong, he was being a good friend. But my mind wondered whether anything had been said about me. Did I look bad? Did I look exhausted? Why did he mention stamina? He could have just left that part out. I engaged with more small talk as we made our way down to the kitchen (Vision liked to be part of an everyday routine), though part of me wished that I was alone again.

"Ah, morning Mr Barnes." Vision said as we walked in, and I instantly cringed.

"Morning." Bucky mumbled, sending a small smile our way, but I quickly looked elsewhere. He was finishing a bowl of cereal as he sat at the kitchen island.

"Miss (Y/L/N), could I tempt you with a fully cooked breakfast? Something that is full of nutrition but still quite enjoyable? I believe it would help with your recovery." Vision offered.

"Oh, that's very kind Vis." I quietly said."But I'll just stick to coffee for now."

"You sure? I wouldn't pass up that opportunity." Bucky added.

I could only muster,"Mhm." before focusing on the coffee machine in front of me.

"Well, the offer stands if you wish for it." Vision said, and I could tell I had upset him.

He said his goodbyes to us as he left, leaving me alone with Bucky. Keeping my back to him, I played with the end of my sleeves, coming up with normal answers that I could say if Bucky started asking questions. I knew that even with backup answers, I wouldn't be able to speak properly to him, my mind would go blank.

"You should have something to eat really. At least an apple or something." Bucky said.

"I'll have one once I've woken up more. Don't feel like eating just yet, think I'm overtired."

"Just make sure you're looking after yourself."

I poured out the coffee into a mug, prepared to leave when I caught Bucky looking at me. My demeanour became smaller, shy, more withdrawn.

"What were you doing the other day? In the lab?"

"I...was testing out a new gadget Tony and Dr Cho created for me."

"(Y/N), I don't want to make assumptions-"

"Then believe what I say. Why would I be lying?"

He looked shocked."I didn't say anything like that."

My eyes cast down, panic setting into my mind, I wanted the ground to open up and swallow me. Forgetting about my coffee, I gave myself no other choice than to run away from any confrontation. I thought that would be the end of it, it usually was, but I heard footsteps behind me, heavy ones, belonging to Bucky. At first, I kept going, hoping he was just going to call out to me before giving up, but again, I was wrong. 

“(Y/N), please!” Bucky pleaded.

Not knowing where to go made me falter, it was only for a split second, that was enough time for Bucky to open a door and drag me inside. Breaking away from him, I sighed when I realised we were in an old conference room; it was empty now, no furniture or screens, it was currently being upgraded and renovated. However, that also meant no one would have any intention of walking in, meaning we were very likely to not be interrupted. 

“Bucky, I don’t want to talk about this.” I rushed out.

“So there is something wrong!” he exclaimed, but kept his tone calm.

“It doesn’t concern you.”

“You’re my friend, my teammate (Y/N), I care about you.”

“Fine! You want to know what’s wrong? I’m surrounded by images of strong, fit people, who I work just as hard as, yet I never look like them! I train and train and train, but for some cruel reason, my body never changes. Sure, I’ve slimmed down slightly since I arrived here, but it’s not enough for me. I’ve been called a superhero, I fight alongside all of you with your slim physiques, huge muscles and beautiful faces; so when I see a picture, or news footage of us fighting, I look like the odd one out, the huge odd one out. I don’t look right standing beside any of you, even an agent from S.H.I.E.L.D.”

Bucky didn’t say anything. His mouth was slightly open, eyes squinted and eyebrows furrowed as he continued staring at me. I scoffed, facing away from him.

“Now you’re seeing it. Or at least your thoughts about me are confirmed. I understand. I know you guys are my friends, you don’t care what I look like. But you must look at me in the line up and think I look out of place.”

“(Y/N), I could never look at you, or think of you in that way.”

“You don’t have to pity me-”

“I’m not. (Y/N), you don’t realise how beautiful you are.”

I glanced over my shoulder, shocked by his sentence.“Don’t do this to make me feel better, because it doesn’t work.”

He took a step closer to me.“How long have you been holding this in for?”

“I’m a woman who’s been bigger than everyone else around me my entire life, and I also have powers which made me a freak before people realised I could save them. So, basically my whole life.”

“Why didn’t you say anything?”

“Why would anyone in my position want to speak up about this? You didn’t say anything when your nightmares came back.”

I saw that throw him off.

“I’m sorry Bucky, I didn’t mean to...to mention it, or-”

“No, you’re right. I know what it feels like to keep something to yourself. You don’t want to burden anyone around you, especially the ones you love. You think it’s not that important, that you can handle it by yourself, or you can ignore it until it goes away. But that’s not the right way to handle things. I can see that, looking back on everything.”

“But your nightmares were worth talking about. They scarred you, reminded you of that awful past. I’m a stupid girl crying over weight that can easily be shifted if I just work harder.”

“You would work yourself to death if you did that. (Y/N), I see you everyday training hard, making sure your powers are being improved everyday, going over tactics you can use by yourself or with the team. Everyday you ensure you are at your best because you want to help people out there that can’t defend themselves. If people judge you on how you look instead of your actions, they’re not even worth thinking about.”

Letting my arms drop to my sides, I faced Bucky, gathering enough courage to look him in the eyes.“Thanks Bucky.”

“(Y/N) I mean it. I’m not saying this to just be nice. You matter to me.”

“I know-”

“No, you don’t. I...I really like you (Y/N). And I know you may not see me in the same way, but you’re such a caring, powerful and hard working person. We come back from a mission, and you could be carried out on a stretcher but you still keep positive and make sure everyone else is safe before yourself. I’m telling you this because...well it just feels right. I’m also not making this up because you need validation from a man to make you feel better about yourself. You should be able to look at yourself in the mirror and love what you see, no matter what you look like.”

My chin was trembling as my lips pursed, trying to hold back my tears. Shaky breath escaped my nostrils, and as Bucky kept looking at me with those nurturing, safe eyes, I broke. No one had ever said something like that to me. I could tell he meant it. He wouldn’t be putting all this effort into this if he just wanted to be a good friend.

“Do...do you really mean it?” my voice wobbled.

He smiled.“Yes.”

Bucky wrapped his arms around me tenderly, pulling me into his chest. Surprisingly, my instincts made me quickly copy, gripping onto his t-shirt as I started sobbing. My mind was confused. One minute I was absolutely hating myself, then I had covered up my sadness, panicking because someone was about to see me break, and here I was, letting it all out in front of him. But I didn’t feel embarrassed like I thought I would. It felt amazing to feel that dragging weight on my shoulders suddenly lift away, the comfort of someone else was welcoming. 

“Th-thank you Bucky.” I sniffed.“I’ve always thought that I need to keep this sort of thing to myself. I’ve been terrified to even be sad, even though I know it’s OK to be sad, but for some reason, my mind would never let me. It’s been building up inside of me, I’ve never been able to express myself properly.”

“We’re here for you, I’m here for you. I’ll always be here to listen...and you tell you how beautiful you are every time I see you.”

I giggled as I pulled away, wiping my cheeks.“You don’t have to do that.”

“I do. I want to.”

“Thank you Bucky, I really appreciate your help.”

He kissed my forehead.“I’ll always be here.”

[bloodstained-ballgowns]

For the meme: Natasha Romanoff. Bucky Barnes.

Thanks anon!

Natasha

Sexuality HC: bisexual, but I do also love the ace!Nat headcanons that I occasionally see.

Favourite ship(s): BuckyNat, BlackHill

Brotp: Jessica Jones & Natasha (SteveNat? But they're kinda my brotp with benefits)

Notp: Brutasha, and I think this will be unpopular but ScarletWidow is a big no from me.

Happy HC: Superhero ladies attend a highly classified Girls Only Poker Night Operation organised by Carol Danvers, with snacks. It gets highly competitive. (This was actually mentioned in Black Widow: Red Vengeance and I've considered it canon ever since.)

Angsty HC: Natasha has formed her view of the world around this cyclical system of debt and compensation, from the greatest down to the smallest of gestures (cooking dinner, compliments, saving her life), and this often results in platonic/sexual/romantic feelings becoming indistinguishable from each other to her in her haste to make up for what she sees as 'owed'. (consequentially, her body is a tool, and sexual favours are what she knows. it's impersonal, her feelings on the matter are irrelevant.)

Random HC: Her favourite Taylor Swift album is evermore. She's also one of the only people ever who can get the USB stick into the port the right way around first time. It's a superpower.

General opinion: uh, love of my life? does that cover it?

Bucky

Sexuality HC: also bisexual, they give me bi couple energy.

Favourite ship(s): I only ship him with Natasha lol

Brotp: Clint & Bucky

Notp: WinterIron, and Stucky, to an extent.

Happy HC: This is a bit couple-y but when his hair gets long, he likes Natasha to braid it. It's a stress reliever for both of them. He sits between her knees in front of her while they watch bad spy movies and she weaves, not into any particular style, and when he cuts it again they swap places.

Angsty HC: I once read something that was like 'The Winter Soldier has been trained to arm any of his handlers (if they're not already) while in his presence just in case they need/want to put him down at any point. It takes Steve months to figure out why Bucky gives him a knife every time they're in the same room' and gosh darn it if that's not angsty I don't know what is.

Random HC: Bucky prefers smooth to crunchy peanut butter. There is literally no reason or thought process behind that it just speaks truth to me.

General opinion: I prefer him in the comics, his journey and his relationships are more interesting to me there, but the MCU is doing a fine job imo. I really like his interactions with the Dora Milaje and what we've seen of his time in Wakanda. Looking forward to him developing a further personality as he gains screen time.

(lmao that last line wasn't meant to be a dig but his character has been in Steve's shadow for so long, emerging from it in tfatws was so refreshing)

Thank you again, anon! This was fun!

[laurendone120]

Heal

Summary: Reader has healing powers, but one day on a mission, she overuses them.

Warnings: Angst, fluffy ending, passing out, mentions of anxiety, some cuss words, mentions of nudity (not smut)

Ship: Bucky Barnes x Reader, Platonic!Steve x Reader, Platonic!Sam x Reader.

AN: Not gonna lie, I’ve already written this fanfiction twice, but my computer didn’t save it. So sorry it’s late.

Y/N’s POV

You were an Avenger, kind of. You have healing powers, and before that you were a well-trained doctor. You had been an Avenger for a couple of years now, and while every Avenger had to complete grueling physical training to be on the team officiaily, you were much more of a lover than a fighter. On missions you would stay behind in case something went wrong, which happened more than you would think.

This mission was meant to be hard, that is why Steve, Sam, Bucky, Natasha and Clint went. You and Bruce normally would stay behind. Being the teams to main doctors had you two work close together, so you were great friends. He would stay with you on the plane in case there was a code Green. You and him would like to play little games with each other to pass the time. 

But not this time. The stakes were high on this mission, having some of your best friends and your boyfriend on it. You and Bruce both have had trouble with anxiety in the past, and this was not one of the missions to be joking around. 

For 20 minutes you sat in the jet waiting for the worst. This was not the fun part of your job, just waiting. But 20 minutes in you got the call.

“I’m sending Sam back. He has been shot.” You hear Steve’s out of breath, but still calm voice says. The calm in his voice calmed you down a bit, knowing that it wasn’t bad, or at least that he trusted you to heal him. 

About a minute later, Sam stumbled in. Bruce was still setting up the stretcher, which was mainly used for naps, so you helped Sam up. You gently laid him on the stretcher, quickly going into doctor mode. 

“He was shot in the stomach. There is no exit wound.” You mumble to Bruce. 

Your power has its limitations. For example, if someone broke a bone, the bone would have to be set back in pace before you could heal it. If not, the bone would be healed weird, and ultimately cause more problems. In this case, bullet holes, the bullet would have to be taken out before you could heal him, because otherwise, you would heal around the bullet, keeping the bullet inside. So, when this happened, Bruce would work on taking out the bullet. 

While you were a great doctor, and for sure could be a big help to Bruce, it was easier to slowly heal Sam, not enough so that Bruce couldn’t work, but enough to take his pain away. It was just faster and more productive than waiting on pain medicine to kick in or than to just knock him out altogether.

Bruce had cut his uniform around the hole, giving him plenty of room to work. You gently place your hands just above Sam, just hovering over the wound, before you started to heal, you then after a moment spread your hands apart, giving room for Bruce to work. 

You heard Sam gasp at the feeling, but you weren’t listening to him, instead just focusing on your moments, and not using to little or too much of your powers on him. You also were focusing on your breathing, in for five, out for five. It was an easy thing to put extra concentration on, and it made sure that you were breathing properly, which was something that you used to do on accident. 

Soon enough, Bruce was done, and started to clean up, so as soon as he pulled the bullet out, you got to work. You quickly moved your hands fully over the wound and started to heal. Sam gasped at the slight pulling sensation, before relaxing. 

Sometimes when you healed, it was nice to visualize what you were doing. Just regenerated all of the cells, and almost forcing mitosis. You could feel the slight headache from your powers growing, but you ignored it, instead just focusing on Sam.

You were almost done just some three minutes later. You healed the top layer of skin before stepping back slightly, making sure that he was fine. Once you were one hundred percent sure he was fine, everything hit you at once. When you healed, you were using your energy, so it always took a toll on you.  

You fell down. You don’t know how long you were sitting there, trying to catch your breath, before a hand reached down. After a moment you took Sam’s hand, and walked over to the bench against the wall. You heard Sam’s thank you’s, on the way over, before waving your hand as if to say don’t mention it. 

You sat down, leaning your head against the walk, doing nothing. At one point you started to hum, prompting Sam to chuckle. Healing always left you tired, but you always tried to stay awake. Bucky had always told you that you always could fall asleep, and no one would care, but you always felt weird making someone, usually Bucky, carry you up to your room after a mission. So, you always tried to stay awake, even though your effort only works part of the time. 

Sam sat with you the entire time. He wasn’t allowed to go back, no one was after you healed them. After you healed someone they were left with a whole bunch of excess energy, they are just wound up with adrenaline for days, that could make them prone to making reckless decisions in the field, so it was protocol for them to stay on the jet for an hour, unless absolutely necessary.

After a bit, you could feel your energy returning. A bullet wound isn’t the most extraneous thing to manage, so you weren’t completely exhausted. You could fully pay attention to your surroundings, and you could listen and comprehend what was going on, even on the other side of your coms.  

Sometime later, you heard Steve’s voice again. “Y/N, Bruce, I’m coming back.” 

“Why.” You heard Clint voice. “We aren’t done yet.” 

After a moment of silence, Bucky spoke up. “What did you do?” 

Sam stiffled a laugh next to you at the tone in Bucky’s voice. 

“What happened Steve?” You ask, a bit nicer than Bucky’s previous words. 

“I may or may not have gotten stabbed,” Steve said, voice getting smaller as he went on, “Twice.”  

His words caused multiple curse words to come from various people’s mouths. 

“Where are you?” Bucky asked, being the closest one to him. 

“I’m fine, I swear, you should see the other guy.” Steve tried to joke. No one believed him, not about the other guy, but him being fine, you could hear the slur in his voice slightly through the coms, he was not fine. 

“Where are you?” Bucky asked again.

Steve sighed before answering, “Hallway B.” 

“I’m not too far from there, don’t move.” 

Everyone could tell when Bucky reached him. Everyone could hear him cursing out Steve, the other guy, the universe, whoever when he saw him. It didn’t do much to calm your nerves.  

“We are going to come back later, or get someone else to finish, we are going home.” You hear Steve say. 

On the way back you heard Steve’s many failed attempts at saying that he was in fact fine, only to be proven wrong by Bucky. At this point all exhaustion had dissipated. You were too worried about him to be tired. Your headache was still there, but that wasn’t stopping you. 

Soon enough, Bucky came back with a weak Steve strung on his shoulders. The stretcher was already set up, so he laid him on it. Natasha and Clint had already made it back, both of them now in the cockpit, ready to take off.  

You quickly scan over him, locating the two stab wounds. “How did you manage to get stabbed in the shoulder?” You jokingly ask, mentally prepping yourself. 

“I don’t know, can you just fix it.” Steve quietly said.

You nod, before hovering your hands over the wound on his shoulder. Steve gasped at the feeling; never getting over the way it feels. You concentrate on regenerating everything, the muscle, tissue, everything injured. The headache only increased, and you made a slight noise at the umcomfort. Stab wounds were normally more difficult, because normally the knife or whatever was used doesn’t come cleanly out. You felt something wet drip down your face, but you don’t pay attention to it, instead focusing on your breathing and the wound. You think you hear movement behind you, but your ears are ringing, so it’s hard to tell.  

After a couple of minutes, the wound is completely healed. Both of your hands fall to the stretcher bar closest to you, using it as your main support so you can continue. You wipe whatever the wet substance was, only to find that you nose was bleeding. You hear both Steve and Bucky talking, but you don’t hear what they are saying. 

After a moment, Steve tried to sit up, before failing, and you snapped back into your thoughts. You again hover your hands over the other stab wound, and you start to restore the cells underneath. You focus on mending the cells beneath your fingertips. 

At one point, you realize that you had forgot to breathe, causing you to gasp all of a sudden, before you remember that you actively have to focus on your breathing.  

It takes longer then normal for your exhausted form to heal him, but you do. Finally healing the skin on top, you step back. He sits up and allows you to search his face for any evidence of pain.  Once you find none, you allow exhaustion to take over. All of the adrenaline dissipates, and you fall.

Bucky’s POV

You slowly drag Steve’s body up the ramp of the jet, quickly locating the stretcher, and laying him down. You step back, allowing your girlfriend to heal him. She doesn’t look as tired as she normally does after she already healed someone. Originally, you were a little worried that she would be able to heal both Sam and Steve, but you learned a long time ago not to underestimate her. 

“How did you manage to get stabbed in the shoulder?” You hear Y/N asking almost mockingly, you and Bruce chuckling softly. 

“I don’t know, can you just fix it.” Steve asked in surrender. 

Y/N nods before bringing her hands up and over his wound. Once he gasped you know she has started. In the small space between her hands and his body, everything was disoriented, almost like when you look at something above a fire and everything looks to be moving slightly. After about a minute she moans very quietly in discomfort. You look at her face, seeing her concentrate heavily on the wound. That’s when her nose starts to bleed. But she doesn’t even notice, telling you that she has already used a lot of her powers already. You step around to the same side as the stretcher that she is on, ready to catch her is she falls, which happens frequently. 

Once she is done, both of her hands fall to the stretcher. She doesn’t look all there, seemingly lost in space. She brings her hand up and wipes her nose, finding the blood.  “

“You really don’t have to.” Steve lies. 

“Doll, are you sure?” You ask, but she doesn’t hear either of you.

Steve tries to sit up, only before groaning in discomfort and falling back down. Once he was laying back down, her hands come up again. Steve gasps again at the sensation. Her face pales as her nose starts to bleed again, only causing you to worry more. Bruce also clearly gets more worried behind you. 

About 30 seconds in, both you and Y/N realize that she isn’t breathing, and she gasps. You and Steve share a look of worry.  But she is still going strong, and you have to remind yourself never you estimate her, as she has reminded you so many times before. You take a deep calming breath before looking back at her. The blood has reached her chin now. 

After a couple of minutes, Steve is completely renewed. He looks at Bruce making sure he is fine to sit up, before doing so. She stares at him, making sure he is fine, before her knees give out. �� 

You catch her easily, having expected her to fall, but you see that she has completely fainted. You nod for Steve to move, him quickly moving off the stricter so you can place her on it.  Bruce steps up, 

“FRIDAY, what happened?”  

“She appears to have fainted as a result of overusing her powers, sir. She should be fine with lots of sleep.” She politely says.  

“Would you alert me if anything changes?”  

“Of course.”  

“You good?” Bruce asks Steve. Steve nods before swallowing. Bruce then steps away, looking for something.

Bruce comes back about a minute later with a wet washcloth. “Can you get her to sit up?” He asks. You go around the table, closer to her head, lifting her shoulders up. She barely stirs. You sit on the edge, bringing her upper body closer to you, so she is resting on your chest.  

Bruce steps forward again with the washcloth and wipes the blood from her nose. He makes sure the skin is dry, before stepping back again.  

You lay her back down, anxiously waiting for her to wake up.   

“How long until we get back FRIDAY?” Steve asks from the other side of her. 

“About an hour sir. Would you like me to request Clint go faster?”  

“Sure.”  

About ten minutes later, she starts to stir. Her eyes open, squinting at first because of the light. Once adjusted, she darts her eyes across the room in search of some answer to the questions she can’t fully form.  

“Hey,” You whisper gently, her eyes now finding yours and smiling slightly. 

“You passed out when healing Steve.” You briefly explain, her eyes now going to Steve. “He’s fine, but you need rest.”  

She barely nods her head, before drifting off again. She wouldn’t wake up again for another 14 hours.

Y/N’s POV

You wake up in something soft. Your head is blissful mush, it’s hard to form thoughts, but you don’t care. After a bit, you somehow realize that you weren’t falling back asleep, so you peek open your eyes. You squint at how bright it is, and burry your head in the nearest thing it could find. Something cold and firm reaches down and touches you gently, something metal you brain finally puts together.   

“Y/N?” You hear someone faintly ask. It takes a good moment to remember that it’s talking to you. You nod your head, not enough to reveal your eyes to the bright light intruding on your sleep.   

“You okay?” The voice asks again. Wait why would you not be okay? You realize that it’s Bucky next to you, but not much else. A dull headache is blossoming from the thinking, and honestly you just wish you could go back asleep.   

But you not answering must have worried Bucky, because he moved slightly underneath you, letting you know that it was him you buried your face in. His metal hand runs his fingers through your hair, almost like he knew you had a headache.   

“Hey.” He calls again.  

“Hi.” You hoarse voice manages to whisper.  

“Do you know what happened?” He gently asked.  

No, you don’t. You don’t know where you are, why you are there, or why you can’t thin straight. Why can’t you think straight?  

You shake your head, still not opening your eyes.  

“We were on a mission yesterday; do you remember that?” He asks. You do, so you nod, him still playing with your hair.

“Sam got shot.” You twitch at the thought of one of your best friends being hurt. “You healed him, he’s fine.” He reassures. You tentatively nod, not sure where this story is going. You think you remember this happening, but right now it felt like millions of years ago.  

“About 20 minutes later, Steve was stabbed twice. I brought him back and you healed him.” He says, slow enough for your brain to process it. You do remember that, but nothing else. You finally open your eyes to look at him with a questionable expression. He was sitting up, and you were resting against his thigh. He smiled down at you, happy you have your eyes open now.  

“You must have overused your powers, because you fainted.” He states. It makes sense, why you can’t think, or why your limbs weigh 1000 pounds.  

“How long have I been asleep?” You ask.  

“You woke up for a minute after a bit, but other than that you have been sleeping for,” he pauses to look at the clock, “14 hours.”  

You nod, the both of you sitting in silence for another couple of minutes. In those minutes you really came back to reality, your headache hitting you like a truck. You brain was functioning better though, and you could focus better.   

Bucky must have noticed you shifting around, because he asked, “Do you want to take a bath?”   

You mutter a quick yes, prompting him to get up. Once his thigh moved out from under for, you felt the cold air and immediately you reach out for him again.   

He chuckles. “Do you not want me to?” He ponders.  

“Just stay here a bit longer.” You say.

He studies your face for a moment, before getting back in bed. “You would think that after being in bed for 14 hours, one wouldn’t want to stay in it.”  

You try and smack his thigh, giggling, but it came out as more of a tap.  He continues to mindlessly play with your hair and goes back on his phone. You try and go back to sleep, but it wasn’t working. Eventually you must have let out a sigh, because Bucky chuckled asking if now you were ready.  

You really didn’t want to, but you knew it would be better for you, so you hesitantly nodded.  He once again got up and walked towards your shared bathroom. You hear the water turns on, and soon after Bucky walked back in.  

“Can you walk?” He muttered. You really did want to be able to. You hated being carried, it felt like such a burden to be carried by another person, but you still couldn’t walk, so you agreed.  

He picked you up and walked you into the bathroom, setting you on the counter. This is when you notice he was naked. He started to undress you, leaving you in your underwear, before setting you in the tub, him slipping in behind you.  

There was nothing sexual about this. You were grown adults, God knows you’ve been naked together countless times. This was simply about relaxation.  

After the water got cold, which took like another half an hour, you both got out. James got out first, grabbing a tower before helping you out. You could now stand at least, but you still leaned against the countertop while he dried you off. Once you were dry, you said a quick thank you, before you went to get some clothes. Once Bucky was dry, he too got some clothes.   

When he saw that you weren’t picking pajamas, he was confused. Normally, if given the opportunity, you would gladly chill at home.

“We going somewhere?”  

“Just to the kitchen.” You respond. You were referring to the Avengers shared kitchen. Yes, everyone has small kitchens in their room, but the one in the tower was always stocked, and there is normally someone there to talk to. It is where most of you socialize.  

 “Did Bruce check me out?” You ask.  

“Hm?”  

“Did Bruce say that I’m good, I just haven’t fainted from using my powers in a while.”  

“Yeah your good. When had you fainted before?” He asked, now also fully dressed.  

“Umm.” You thought, raping your arm around Bucky, for support and because you loved him. “A couple of years ago in Budapest.”  

You walked into the elevator door when getting on it. You chuckled. At one point, the ride down felt like it took a lot longer than normal. You started to sway a bit without realizing. James lightly shook your arm, causing you to wake out of your trance. You offer a reassuring smile, his worry only slightly decreasing.   

“Are you sure your okay?”  

“Yes.” You say confidently. You were fine, other than your pounding headache that just got the better of you.  

The bell dings, which sounded a lot louder than normal, and you stepped out. When you turn to the kitchen, Sam, Steve, and Wanda were eating there, talking about God knows what.

Once Steve sees you, he runs over.  

“Oh my gosh Y/N, I am so sorry, I shouldn’t have been so stupid, you shouldn’t have had to do that.” He rambled.   

Bucky looked at you, silently asking if you were good handling Steve by yourself. You nodded, “Could you make me something?” He nodded, before walking off. You luckily quickly found your balance without him, before addressing Steve.  

“Hey, hey, hey.” You cut him off. “It’s my job to heal you. Would you rather me not. Look at me, I’m fine, just a little tired. You could’ve had numerous problems. I personally think that a headache is a hell of a lot better than two stab wounds.”  

He opens his mouth, before shutting again. He knows your right; he just still feels bad.  

“Nobody did anything wrong, and I would do it again if I had to.” He nods, sheepishly looking down at his feet.  

Suddenly, you remembered that you still had a headache, and walking took way too much energy. “Mind helping me over there?” You ask.  

He quickly nods, happy that he can help. He walks to the side of you, putting his arm under your shoulders, and helped you walk to your seat.  

“Thank you.” Sam offers.  

“Anytime.”  

“Not only for me but for saving this dumb ass as well.” Steve playfully hits him, and everyone laughs. This was going to be a good day.

The End

AN: Requests are open and welcomed!

[browneyedhimbo]

Magnets

Paring: Not really one, just platonic

Summary: Bucky doesn’t like his arm, always reminding him of Hydra and what they did to him. Little does he know, a certain little avenger takes notice of this and decides to take matters into his own hands, with some help of course.

Warning: Fluff, Swearing

Word Count: 2k

A/N: I FINALLY FINISHED IT!! This went waaay over the word count I originally thought it’d take. Just so you all know, I’m not that good with summaries buuut I tried. Also, sorry there are so many time skips. Not sure if this idea has been done or not, but if it has this is my take on it. 

Please let me know if you want to get tagged in anything. Enjoy!  Masterlist

"I want to make him feel better. But I just don't know what to do. He glares at the thing when he thinks no one is looking." Peter Parker said as he was putting books in his locker.

"Well, have you tried sticking magnets to it? You said it was metal right?" Ned suggested.

"Vibranium actually. But yeah. You know what? That sounds like a great idea!" Peters's eyes lit up with excitement, knowing exactly what kinds of magnets to get. 

~~~~~~

Now on a mission, he was swinging as fast as he could through the compound.

"Peter swings from side to side. Sticking to the walls. He jumps and he - AH!" Swings right into Tony, making them both fall with an oof.

"Why the rush kid?" Tony asks getting up and outstretching his hand to help Peter.

"I'm on a very important mission, Mr. Stark. Top secret." With a sweet smile and fake salute, he was back on his way to Bucky's room. 

"I swear that kid's going to be the death of me," Tony mumbled with a sigh. "Fri keep an eye on him."

"Yes, boss."

~~~~~~

After Peter knocked he started to feel a little anxious. Maybe he wouldn't like it? Or maybe he'll think its a stupid idea? Or maybe - 

"Peter? What're you doin here?" Peter started fiddling with the bag in his hand.

"Hey there Mr. Barnes uh sir. I uh, I got you something. Hopefully, it'll make you feel better. Or at least I hope it does. Even if it doesn't, I mean - well. It’s just - um. Here.” Looking down, Peter sheepishly handed the bag to Bucky. Hearing a chuckle made Peter whip his head up so fast you’d think it’d break. Turns out he had nothing to worry about. The big smile plastered on Bucky’s face was contagious enough to make the kid smile too.

“So you like it? Even though it’s cheesy and probably stupid?”

“Cheesy yes, but it’s not stupid.” Peter’s soft brown eyes locked onto Bucky’s steal blue ones and saw the sincerity and seriousness behind the words.

“Why don’t you come in and help me put them on,” Bucky said while walking back inside toward his bed, leaving the door open.

“Oh uh, sure!” Closing the door and walking in Peter noted the few things in the dulled grey room. A decent-sized red oak stained office desk sat tucked in a corner with a small modern desk lamp on it, papers neatly piled and a notebook next to it, a pretty big sized bed pushed up against the wall very neatly made military-styled, and a decent-sized tv hung on the wall right across from it. His heart ached for the poor soldier. He knew Bucky would isolate himself from the others, but he figured he'd have things in his room to make up for it. Keep him occupied. 

Bucky plopped on the bed, Peter in tow. Hesitantly, Peter put his hand in the bad and grabbed the first magnet he felt. Bringing his hand out, they both saw it was an iron man helmet. 

"Well, what are the odds?" Bucky let out a laugh making Peter chuckle.

~~~~~~

About 10 minutes later Peter put the last magnet on Bucky's arm, a proud smile evident on his face. He sat back and admired his work. Different types of Avengers and New York magnets stuck to the arm.

Bucky seemed to like it. Turning his arm a few times to see the kid's hard work.

"Looks great Pete. Thank you." Bucky smiled and ruffled Peter's hair causing them both to laugh again. Peter looked at his watch and mentally cursed. It was 6:53 and he told May he would be home by 7. He started grabbing his stuff and shoved them into his backpack. 

"Sorry to leave like this Mr. Barnes. I told my aunt I'd be home by 7," he started rambling as he was putting his web-shooters on his wrists. "Maybe I can swing by tomorrow after school and we can add more on. Oo or maybe-" Bucky let out a chuckle cutting of Peters rambling.

"Kid. You're aunt." 

"Oh right! Bye Mr. Barnes!" He yelled out before swinging out the compound through the window.

~~~~~~

It was another 5 minutes after Peter had left and Bucky still sat on the bed. Undisturbed, unmoving, thoughts racing. It's not unknown that Bucky doesn't like talking much to the others. Sure he'll hold small talk when he has to, and yeah he'll hang out with Sam and Steve more than anyone else, but if he's being honest with himself, he'd rather just workout and stay in his room instead of constantly being worried they'll mistreat him, or rather, treat him like a villain. Okay, maybe that's a bit extreme. But he doesn't want to risk it, opening up and getting shut down, being nice and then getting the cold shoulder.

That's why he always separated himself from them. But the kid, that kid. Peter Parker. Whenever he was around, he always managed to bring out a different side of Bucky. A happier more open side, and no it's not just the fact that he's similar to how Steve was before that soldier serum, but there was a certain energy he had. Always happy, bright, ready to help, innocent. Bucky swore he was going to protect him, no matter what.

~~~~~~

No matter how busy the Avengers can get (not really), they always try to have movie night. Though he won't show it, Bucky is always excited for movie night. He's missed so much. It gives him a small ache in his chest, but he's just glad he's there. 

After grabbing the popcorn bowl, Bucky walked into the living room only to be hollered and whistled at by Sam and Clint.

“So you finally decided to take your arm into the workshop then huh Barnes?” Sam smugly asked.

“Got it detailed? And oh lookie, it even has an arrow!” Clint smirked. They never could never resist a moment to tease the ex-assassin. 

“Yeah. It was all Peter’s idea. Make one more joke and I’ll crack you for it.” Though he said it in a light tone, smirk in place, they all knew he was being serious. Everyone knew Bucky was more protective of Peter than Tony. And that says something.

“Alright, alright.” Sam put up his hands in mock surrender. 

“Sit your ass down so I can get some of that popcorn then.” Clint slapped his hand on a spot next to him on the couch. Bucky shook his head at the archer while sitting down. The intro credits started rolling and when the main title popped up, it seemed familiar to him. ‘Star Wars’. Where has he heard that? Peter. It was always Peter.

~~~~~~

It happened randomly.  Last week, Tony was working in the lab when FRIDAY started playing videos for him. 

“Uh Fri? What’s this?” 

“You asked me to keep on Peter, sir.” FRIDAY’s voice echoed through the lab. So he sat there. Watching every single video. And boy did they surprise him. He personally never really saw sweet caring side of Barnes. Sure Tony knew Bucky was capable of it, but it was quite a shock seeing him being so gentle with the kid. But Tony understood. Tony knew exactly what Peter meant to Bucky and what Bucky meant to Peter. It was a weird twist between parental and sibling bonds. Which explains why Tony is currently is the lab sketching up different designed arms for the super soldier.

~~~~~~

“Hey, Mr. Stark you’ll never believe what happened on patrol last night.” Peter was saying while walking into the lab. “There was this big - oh what’s this? New repulsor arm design or something?” Tony couldn't help but laugh at the kid's antics of changing the subject so quickly.

“For once, no.” Tony started. “I’ve seen how close you and Barnes have been lately. I knew sooner or later you were gonna ask me about building a new arm for him, so I started some designs last night for you to choose from.” Peter’s mouth dropped. And he also couldn't pinpoint exactly what he was feeling either. 

“Am I that easy to read?” Tony gave a small smile at the kid before turning to the designs and spreading them out for Peter to see.

“Oo I like that one. But maybe we can make it more realistic. That way it doesn’t trigger a bad memory or anything.”  Peter started rambling while messing with the design. The kid definitely reminded Tony of himself in so many ways, but his purity is what truly defines him. 

~~~~~~

Five hours, four oil spills, three coffee pots, and two naps later, the arm was finished. Peter could hardly contain himself. He was so happy that finally after so long, Bucky can now say he was truly free from Hydra.

“How you feeling kid?” Tony asked, clasping a hand on Peters's shoulder. The kid looked up, tears in his eyes. Tony was starting to panic. Shit, why is crying? Why is crying? Why? Why? Why?

“Thank you, Mr. Stark.” Peter choked out. Tony immediately brought the kid to his chest, cradling his neck. A sad smile making away on his face. Now he understood. Tony always understands.

~~~~~~

Rapid knocking is what pulled Bucky out of his thoughts. Thinking something bad has happened he rushed over to the door. Though he wasn’t ready to fling the door open to find a bouncing Peter ready to bolt at a moment's notice. 

“Pete, what happened? Did something happen? Are you okay? Are you hurt?” Bucky started inspecting the kid making sure nothing was broken or bruised. Peter let out a laugh.

“No. Everything is PERFECT!” He smiled brightly, causing the soldier to smile too. “BUT, follow me!” Peter started running towards the lab, looking back every few strides to make sure Bucky was right behind him. When they got to the entrance of the lab, Peter stopped.

“You don’t mind me covering your eyes, do you?” Peter tentative asked, holding up a blindfold. 

“Nah. I trust you kid.” Seeing the kid's eyes light up always made Bucky feel happy and warm inside.

After putting the blindfold on, Peter gently guided Bucky to where the arm was displaying. Tony had left to give them space, but FRIDAY on the hand, had some other plans and recording was one of them. Slowly, Peter untied the blindfold.

“This is the lab.” Bucky started looking around, confusion evident on his face.

“Very good observation Sherlock Holmes.” Peter snickered. The playful death glare Bucky sent his way completely obliterated the seriousness Peter wanted to embody and sent him to a fit of giggles. “Look down.” All laughter subsided. Bucky picked up the arm and inspected it. Peter couldn’t tell what emotion Bucky was feeling. All he saw was an emotionless face before Bucky turned his face out of view.

Bucky stared at the arm. His mind was racing a million miles a minute. For a long second, he thought this wasn’t real, any of this. But the burning sensation in his eyes told him otherwise. He felt the lump in his throat, the shaking of his hands. No matter how deep a breath he took, Bucky felt like he couldn’t breathe. So many emotions and thoughts. He took a shaky breath and looked over at Peter. And it was there, that Peter saw the real Bucky for the first time. 

Ever so slowly, Bucky placed the arm back on the table. He walked over to where Peter was standing still and engulfed him in the biggest hug. And Peter clinging on to him.

"Thank you. Thank you, Peter." Bucky started sobbing. He never would've thought that the one to help him pick up the pieces would be a kid from Queens. Yet, here they were attached like magnets. Like the family they both ever wanted.

-------

Tags: @katbtracy @agentpeggybarnes @justmebeingtheweirdmeiam @writing-for-hours-on-end @theladyoffangorn @thelibraryoffanfiction

[lowkeybxrnes]

My Masterlist

*rises out of the post-IW dark hole I’m currently in* 

HELLO EVERYBODY!! Uh first of all, I’d like to apologize for not posting as often as I used to. No excuses; I’ve just been feeling 'un-inspired’ to write some fics the last couple of... decades? (exaggerated much?) That’s why I went on a sudden hiatus T^T and I’m sorry for leaving you guys hanging :( 

BUT I’M BACK NOW! I am here to write again for you all :) Let me know what you guys want me to write about our Bucky in my ask box -- or anything you want to share with me. 

I’m just gonna link all of my works here so it’s easy to see because I get a few messages telling me that the link to my masterlist doesn’t work (the one in my description). 

LIKE THAT ;  “The one where Bucky finds out that the reader kissed Steve (but only because of the mission).”

SOLACE ;  “The one where Y/N is an agent of shield but on a mission, Y/N kills for the first time. She takes this hard because the target was the one who murdered her parents. In the end, Bucky comforts her.”

JUST A LITTLE BIT MORE ;  “The one where the reader and Bucky are on a mission and they have to kiss so their cover won’t be blown.”

RESCUE ;  “The one where the reader’s parents were the Winter Soldier’s mission, so the reader joins S.H.I.E.L.D and then becomes Bucky’s mission, but they fall in love. Then the reader tries to save Bucky from HYDRA.”

“GO BACK!” | ONE | TWO | ;  “The one where the reader gets hurt in the big fight scene and Bucky has to leave her behind.”

FOR LUCK ;  “The one where Bucky kisses the reader just before they head to the Hydra base.”

QUIET MOUSE ;  “The one where the reader is an avenger yet never talks. The reader develops a crush on Bucky. One day some agent makes an insulting remark about Bucky and she tells the agent to screw off.”

RUN AWAY WITH YOUR FOOTSTEPS | ONE | TWO | ;  "After the events of The Winter Soldier, the reader (an avenger) goes out to find Bucky for Steve. When she finds him, he has his own apartment and trying to live a normal life. He begs her not to tell the captain. She stays to watch over him and they kind of fall in love. Later, Steve finally finds them looking angry because she went MIA.“

SURPRISE ;  “The one where it’s the reader’s birthday and upon finding out that she’s alone celebrating her special day, Bucky decides to organize a birthday party for her (with the help of the other Avengers, of course).”

DIRTY TALK. LITERALLY ;  "Bucky asking the reader to talk dirty for him and she takes this literally.“

CHASE ;  “The one where the reader was Bucky’s partner during his HYDRA years and have been living together in his apartment, dating and laying low on the radar. That is until he was suddenly brought into a mess.”

LOOKING FOR SUNLIGHT | ONE |  ;  “Based on the song, “Roman Holiday” by Halsey. The story of the reader and Bucky before the war.”

PLUMS FOR YOU ;  "The one where the reader was in a relationship with Bucky and stayed together in his apartment, but they broke up 2 days before Steve arrived. (Happy ending though, don’t worry)“

COFFEE SHOP AU ;  “Person A is a cashier at a coffee shop. Person B is a regular, and always flirts with A, never failing to make A flustered. After one particularly bad day at the shop, B sees A crying in the back. B talks with them and they become friends.”

BATTLE-CRY ;  "The one where the reader steps in between Tony, Steve, and Bucky while they are fighting and gets hurt in the process. & “The one where the reader gets injured trying to stop Tony from hurting Bucky while he lays on the ground without his arm. And then Bucky thinks she died and gets really angry, and fights Tony despite the loss of his metal arm.”

“SHE’S AN UPTOWN GIRL, BARNES” ;  "Based on the song “Uptown Girl” by Westlife. The one where the reader is a high-class girl and Bucky is just a downtown man.“

JEALOUSY, THY NAME IS BARNES ;  "The one where the reader is Wanda’s big sister and she has the power of teleportation. She is also a part of the Avengers. She has met Bucky before when he shot her in the stomach, nearly died and left a huge scar. He did that as the Winter Soldier so she doesn’t hold it against him, but he feels so sorry. They become close and both develop feelings but do nothing about it.“ & ”The one where the reader and Bucky like each other but they won’t tell each other. The reader and Steve are constantly flirting and that makes Bucky mad.“

A NOT-SO-SECRET CRUSH ;  "The one where Bucky has a crush on the reader and Steve finds out when they escape from the others. He tells Bucky to confess it to the reader the next time they all meet.“

AWKWARDLY TANGLED ;  "The one where Bucky and the reader end up sharing a bed for some reason, even though they “don’t like” each other. They wake up really cuddled up which ends up with an awkward moment. The team finds out and teases them both.”

BAD BLOOD | ONE | ;  "The reader gets exposed to a red energy substance and it alters her mind and destroys her inhibitions. Left with only malice, pride and wrath, she becomes malevolent and aggressive, leaving her a danger to the Avengers.“

SECOND’S NOT THE SAME | ONE | TWO | ;  "Based on the song “Is There Somewhere” by Halsey. The one where the reader falls in love with Bucky, despite him being in a relationship with someone else. When around him, she tries to pretend as if she is the one he really is in love with.“

HOMECOMING ;  "The one where Hydra kidnaps Bucky and the reader, and recited the trigger words for Bucky to become the Winter Soldier so that he could kill the her.“

YOU & ME ;  "The one where the reader owns her own cafe and Bucky goes there everyday to get a milkshake and to flirt with her. One day, he comes after having a hair cut and is dressed all fancy. Then he invites her to a party at Tony’s.“

THUNDERS AND CUDDLES ;  “The one where the reader is really afraid of thunder and lightning. She usually tends to plug her fingers in her ears or put the blankets over her to shield or draw out the light and sounds. Then one stormy day, Bucky comes into the room and sees the reader really shaky and trying to hide. He goes and comforts her by caressing her hair, unplugging her ears and waiting till she falls asleep.”

“JUST ONE KISS” ; “The one where the reader bumps into something Tony has made and breaks it, so she gets very nervous and tries to hide it. Bucky sees it all and she pleads him to not say anything because Tony will be very angry with her. He tells her he won’t, if she gives him a kiss.”

TEASE ;  “The one where Sebastian returns to his LA home and finds the reader, his PA (Personal Assistant), wearing a cute maid outfit while cleaning the house.”

“WE’RE REHEARSING A SCENE AND HERE YOU ARE, FLIRTING WITH ME” | ONE | TWO | ;  ”The one where the reader is filming the Civil War movie and Sebastian keeps flirting with her when they have to rehearse a fight scene together.“

FIRST IMPRESSION ;  “The one where the reader is also in Civil War and she meets Sebastian for the first time on set. At first they don’t really hit it off well because one of them is having a bad day when they first met.”

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS ;  “The one where the reader is originally from the UK and hasn’t seen her family in almost a year because she lives with Seb in NY. One night, Sebastian finds her on the phone with her mother and sees her get emotional because she misses everyone. Sebastian then surprises her with a trip back home.”

STUPID CRUSH ;  “The one where the reader is an actress and is 18. Sebastian thinks that she’s really young but can’t help having a crush on her and she has the biggest crush on him. While filming a scene, Tom (Spidey) starts flirting with her which gets Sebastian super irritated but doesn’t want to say anything because he thinks it’s wrong since she’s young. But the reader convinces him otherwise.”

A NIGHT TO NOT REMEMBER ;  “The one where the reader is 18, an actress on Civil War and everyone loves her. She’s wild and crazy. They all went out for a night-out and when she wakes up the next day, she’s got a hangover and has to come to set. The cast tease her, especially Sebastian.”

A MISUNDERSTANDING ; “The one where Peter wants to organize a valentine’s day thing for the reader, so he asks MJ for help. While it’s all platonic and harmless, the reader gets a wrong impression that he’s cheating on her with MJ.”

Oh! And I am excited to announce... I will be opening up requests for Peter Parker and Tom Holland hihi I’ve been thinking of doing it for a while now and decided to just go with it! So feel free to send in your requests about the friendly-neighborhood spider :) 

Have a good day!

[ao3feed-lokiangst]

You Don’t Know Me Yet

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/3k4WvsP

by Blue_Anymore

The scariest part of him standing there was not that he was a wanted criminal, responsible for the deaths of countless people in an attack on earth and an attempt to rule it as a God, but that he died two months ago, they'd never met, and he was refusing to speak to anyone else.

Words: 6090, Chapters: 2/?, Language: English

Fandoms: Marvel Cinematic Universe, Thor (Movies), The Avengers (Marvel Movies)

Rating: Not Rated

Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence

Categories: F/M

Characters: Loki (Marvel), Thor (Marvel), Tony Stark, Bruce Banner, Natasha Romanov (Marvel), Clint Barton, Steve Rogers, Original Female Character(s), Nick Fury, Maria Hill, Heimdall (Marvel), Sif (Marvel), James "Bucky" Barnes, James "Rhodey" Rhodes, Sam Wilson (Marvel)

Relationships: Loki (Marvel)/Reader, Loki (Marvel)/Original Female Character(s)

Additional Tags: I wrote this for my mental health, sort of a fix-it fic, the Loki series is testing me, Alternate Universe - Soulmates, Alternate Realities, Protective Loki (Marvel), Post Infinity War, changed ending, Endgame never happened, everyone is alive (except for gamora), original Loki is dead, powerful female character, interrogations, big silence of the lambs energy, The tva does not exist, this completely ignores and contradicts the Loki series, i normally skip fics where they give the reader a name, just read it, its good, hopefully in character loki, loki has questionable morals, (Eventually) mutual pining, parent Tony stark/daughter reader, Reader Is Adopted, Reader has a dark past, blood warning, Violence, Mentions of Injuries, Mentions of Cults, Implied Childhood Sexual Abuse, mentions of guns, Mentions of War, Nightmares, Scars, thor/reader (platonic), Thor and Reader are besties, Protective Avengers, Protective Tony Stark, reader has special abilities, reader is an avenger, Drugs, Mentions of drugs, Withdrawal, Mentions of Death, This will have a happy ending if I ever finish it, Asgard was not destroyed, its a long story, Hela is dead, Time Travel, Sentient Infinity Stones (Marvel)

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/3k4WvsP

[mangokitkats]

Big Quirky Family

Pairings (All Platonic): Dad Figure!Steve Rogers x Peter Parker, Dad Figure!Tony Stark x Peter Parker, Dad Figure!Bucky Barnes x Peter Parker, Uncle Figure!Bucky Barnes x Peter Parker, Big Sister!Natasha Romanoff x Peter Parker, Big Brother!Clint Barton x Peter Parker, Big Sister!Wanda Maximoff x Peter Parker, Big Brother!Sam Wilson x Peter Parker

Summary: After a long, stressful day at school all Peter wants is to go and decompress with his family. But when Natasha catches him angrily throwing apples into the woods, all the emotions steadily come crashing down and out. (There’s some angsty kinda stuff but it’s just very pure fluff for the most part)

Characters: Peter Parker, Steve Rogers, Tony Stark, Natasha Romanoff, Clint Barton, Wanda Maximoff, Bucky Barnes, Sam Wilson, Flash Thompson (mentioned), Aunt May (mentioned)

Warnings: Bullying, public humiliation, yelling, swearing, detention (????), minor angst, lots of fluff

Word Count: 2,265

Peter POV (outside view)

 Peter trudged through New York, exhausted from his day at school. His algebra teacher had lost his test and insisted on him retaking it, and when Peter refused? Three minutes later and he was signing a detention form. Then of course, at lunch Flash just had to start a ‘Penis Parker’ chant. That was just his luck, detention and public humiliation. Then there was also the daily bullying he put up with from the other popular kids at school. He walked into his apartment, “May I’m home!” He called through the home. When he didn’t get a response back he shrugged and plopped his bag down onto the couch ‘guess she’s out running errands or something’, he’d worry about schoolwork later. Right now he wanted to just go decompress at the Compound with the rest of the Avengers, maybe spar with Natasha to let off some steam. He scribbled a note down on a random piece of paper and placed it on the table for May.

‘Long day, gone to The Compound to hang out with the team and relax’

Reading it over again for good measure he nodded to himself before making his way to the subway station. He’d ride it to the nearest station to The Compound then most likely walk the rest of the way, not having the energy to deal with his suit and web shooters right now.

He arrived at the station a couple blocks from The Compound about an hour and a half later. He had zoned everything else out on the ride there, getting lost in his thoughts, which was probably a mistake since he was now more worked up and upset than before.

As he arrived at The Compound he noticed no one in sight and made his way to the kitchen to get some food, he hadn’t eaten before leaving home. Opening the fridge to scour what there was, he pulled out a pizza box. Turning around to set it on the counter he nearly ran straight into Steve. “Jesus! Cap you can’t do that” he sounded more annoyed than he realized, earning a concerned and confused look from Steve, he internally groaned, here comes Dad Mode Steve trying to find out what’s wrong.

“Peter are you ok? You seem tense, you’re not usually like this”

“Yup I’m all good”

He struggled to say it in a somewhat cheerful and calm tone yet failed miserably, he just sounded strained.

“Are you sure?”

“Cap, I said yes! I’m fine! Now please drop it!”

He paled immediately after, realizing he just yelled at Captain America, who stood looking shocked at the sudden outburst. “Sir, I-I’m so sorry I- I’ll just be going now” he trailed off and turned on his heel, leaving the pizza behind him. He didn’t realize where he was going but before he knew it he ran into Tony, who immediately could tell something was off by the lack of profuse apology.

“Hey Sport you ok? You seem kinda out of it”

“Huh? Uh y- yeah just fine Mr. Stark!” He forced out with a smile. He didn’t make eye contact and stumbled over his words more than usual which Tony also took note of, something was wrong.

“Hey kid follow me” Tony gestured to Peter as he started walking away, back towards the kitchen. Peter, hesitantly, followed his father figure back toward where he had just yelled at Steve. As they got to the kitchen, Tony walked over to the counter and grabbed the basket of easily 10 apples before handing it to Peter.

“Here, these apples are old and Barnes didn’t eat them, go chuck them off the patio into the woods. If we’re lucky maybe we’ll get an apple tree or two but it’ll at least help you get some pent up emotion out”

Peter just looked quizzically at Tony before shrugging and taking the basket from him, nodding a small thanks before walking away to the patio facing the woods.

Peter arrived at the patio a few minutes later, an apple already in hand as he set the basket of the rest down on one of the chairs. He stepped forward, shuffling a bit before sending the apple flinging into the woods.

“Goddamn Mr. Morrissey”

He picked up another as he heard the first one smack into a tree, he chucked it forward.

“Stupid Flash”

Smack it hit another tree. He grabbed the next apple, not noticing Natasha coming up behind him.

“Penis Parker ha ha I’m so funny ehhh”

He let that apple go flying, this time just landing with a thud on the forest floor. He was so encroached in letting out his emotions on the fruits that he hadn’t noticed the angry tears that had started to fall. Natasha had cautiously approached from behind, full of concern and curiosity, and handed him the next apple as he turned, much to his surprise.

Natasha POV (outside view) 

Natasha walked towards the couch in the common room, glancing through the large glass window leading to the patio. She hummed a sound of interest and confusion to herself, seeing the youngest member chucking fruit out to the trees. ‘Ok when did Peter get here and why is he throwing fruit into the woods, Stark what did you tell him?’

She noticed as she walked closer he was muttering to himself, well not so much muttering anymore.

“Penis Parker ha ha I’m so funny ehhh”

His voice cracked with that comment, nearly cracking Natasha’s heart ‘is some kid picking on Peter? Is it illegal for me to kick a 15 year old’s ass?’

She cautiously approached the basket of apples set on the patio chair and picked one up before handing it to Peter, slightly startling him. She looked up at his face and realized he’d been crying, it broke her heart. Peter was like a little brother to her.

“You ok Pete?”

He just grunted and grabbed the apple, “yes, Nat I’m just- fine!” He yelled as he threw the apple ‘No you aren’t Peter’ she thought to herself, if only Wanda was here right now.

Peter POV (outside view) 

Peter threw the apple Natasha handed him as he yelled again. Only this time it didn’t hit a tree. An arrow shot straight through it instead, he looked from where it thumped down and followed the line of projection from the arrow to a tree. Crouched in the tree and smirking like an idiot was none other than Clint. Peter finally let out a breath he had been metaphorically holding and chuckled to himself before grabbing another apple. He hurled this one with just as much force but less anger, expecting Clint to shoot it down again. This time however, the apple came hurtling back toward him in a flicker of red wisps, he instinctively dodged to the side even though it wasn’t close to hitting him and watched as the over ripe apple splatted right onto the support column of the patio. He let out a full laugh this time and looked out toward the yard, seeing Wanda standing against a small tree with a grin on her face. Peter was still visibly upset and the previously angry tears still occasionally fell, but they were lessening. He was overcome with more emotions now, however now they were a mix of happiness and comfort as he realized how much his little family really meant to him. He watched as Clint hopped down from the tree and he and Wanda started walking over to the patio to him and Natasha, tears threatening to fall again. They stepped up the couple stairs before Clint gathered up the emotional boy into a tight hug. Peter stood there in the hug for a second before just letting out the emotions that had been building up the whole day. A sob wracked through him as he cried into Clint, holding onto his big brother figure for dear life, worried that if he loosened his grip it’d all fade away. Wanda and Nat stood for a second before leaping into action and smothering the boy with soothing words, Natasha running her fingers through his hair and rubbing his shoulder and Wanda humming a Sokovian lullaby to him and also gently carding her fingers through his hair. He pulled himself away from Clint’s chest to look around at the others, letting out a small and slightly bitter chuckle

“Wow you guys must think I’m such a mess. I yell at Steve, I yell at Nat, and here I am crying over stupid school stuff.”

Natasha immediately formed her response, “shh, Pete it’s ok. We don’t think you’re a mess. If anyone’s a mess it’s the rest of us. It’s perfectly reasonable to be upset, even if I don’t know exactly what about. You’re our little brother and it’s our job to take care of and protect you. And it’s Steve and Tony’s jobs to give you Dad lectures. And Bucky’s job to be the uncle and dad who stops us from doing stupid shit” she let out a chuckle along with that last bit as she continued stroking her fingers through his hair. Peter smiled at her, and looked up and around at the other two, “Thank you, all of you. I needed that. I love you guys”. Wanda piped up this time, halting her soft humming as her lovely accent added to the conversation “Mhm, and we love you too. Now, how about we go into the common room and put on a movie and you can tell us about what’s been bugging you hm? Would that be ok?” Peter just nodded his approval and unlatched himself from Clint where he still held a death grip before walking inside, followed by the other three. They put on Peter’s constant favorite, The Jungle Book, and settled together on the couch. Peter laid down with his head resting comfortably on Wanda’s leg, still wanting to have the comfort of contact with at least one of them. She reached down as the movie started and began running her fingers through his hair again before gently speaking up, “Just let us know when you’re ready to start talking, take your time, you only just got settled” About 20 minutes into the movie Peter sat up and leaned against her instead of laying down, ready to talk about his problem. He took a deep breath, “I’m ready to talk about it now I think.” Clint just smiled gently at him, “take your time buddy, don’t try and rush through it or push yourself through details too hard. We understand.” Peter nodded before starting, “ok so it started with…” he began telling the whole situation to them. Everything from his algebra teacher to the jocks that haven’t let up their relentless bullying since 7th grade. Wanda, Clint, and Natasha were angry, concerned, and shocked how much Peter put up with. He’s always so happy go lucky and man, 7th grade? This kid was tough. Tougher than anyone gave him credit for. After confessing the whole problem, Peter fell asleep against Wanda while they were watching another movie (this time Nat’s pick of Tangled), who didn’t move for worry of waking him as Natasha started to fume more and more as she thought over the situation. He woke up to being picked up and noticed Steve carrying him to the guest room they had for him. He yawned and stayed silent before quietly speaking up, “I’m sorry for yelling at you earlier…”

Steve didn’t appear angry at all, just smiled down at him and looked concerned and relieved. Peter figured Nat and Clint had told him, since Wanda had been his pillow and didn’t move. “It’s ok kid, it’s not your fault. Don’t worry about May, Tony already called and told her you’d wanted to stay the night”. Peter just nodded as they arrived at the guest bedroom and Steve gently set him down to open the door and make sure the bed was still all set up. Peter leaned against Steve in his still sleepy state before trudging over to the bed and pulling his shirt off. Steve threw him a pair of sweatpants to sleep in and he changed before flopping dramatically onto the bed. Steve chuckled at him before telling him to get under the blankets, which Peter happily did. Steve sighed before pushing off the wall where he was leaning and walked over to turn off the lamp “Good night Peter, sleep well. You deserve it”

“G’night Steve, see ya tomorrow”

That was the best Peter had slept in a long time.

*The Next Morning*

Peter awoke to the sound of yelling and laughter. Pulling on a random shirt he’d left the last time he’d stayed the night he quietly walked into the common room to see Bucky and Nat yelling at each other and Steve, Tony, Wanda, Sam, and Clint all laughing their asses off.

“Natasha for the last time you CANNOT kick a 15 year old’s ass! Do you know how much shit we’d get for that?”

“I don’t care Bucky, he hurt Peter and I’m gonna whoop some rich kid ass”

Peter just chuckled softly to himself and walked into the common room, drawing the attention of the others. “Hey Pete how you feeling?” Sam asked him concerned, big brother as always, “sorry I wasn’t here yesterday, I heard about the whole thing and now Buck’s trying to talk Nat out of beating up the whole football team and this Flash kid they talked about.”

Peter didn’t answer the question but just looked around the room with a smile. He loved his big, quirky family.