Sentimental Journey

Called to Service

Bucky stared at the summons in hand.

He turned, seeing Anneliese walk up behind him.

She pointed to the paper. 'What's that?'

Bucky pocketed the paper. 'I got drafted.'

Anneliese stepped back with a frown. 'No. Please tell me you didn't.'

'I'm sorry doll, but I did.'

'That's not fair! Why do they always take the best men?'

'I wish I could tell you why, but i genuinely have no idea. If it makes you feel better, I wish I could opt out without getting in trouble.'

'How much trouble?'

'A lot. Lisie, I promise I'll get back to you. I just have to go to basic, and then I'm coming back. It won't be for long.'

'Do you promise? I mean, I know you said you did, but do you honestly, truly promise to come back to me?'

Bucky nodded. 'I honestly, truly promise to come back to you, Anneliese.'

She smiled and nodded, giving him a tender kiss. 'I'll see you soon, soldier.'

Bucky smiled. 'I could get used to that.'

'Don't let it get to your head.'

'Too late.' The two shared a laugh and Bucky's expression turned serious. 'Lisie, take care of yourself and Steve while I'm gone, okay?'

She nodded. 'I will. I'll pray for you daily. And I'll think of you each morning when I wake, each night before I go to sleep, and all the hours between.'

'As will I. This is only for a short while.' He rested his forehead to hers, thinking of a particular piece of jewelry he planned to give her soon.

---

Just shy of eleven long weeks later, he returned. The date was February 22, 1942. Anneliese's birthday. He'd stopped by the apartment to pick up a necessary item.

He found Anneliese in a diner with Steve and her aunt and uncle. Walter and Edith had taken it upon themselves to look after, not only their niece, but Steve and Bucky as well, which both men were thankful for.

Bucky smiled as he watched Anneliese signing with an animated expression and flying hands. She was telling a story about a book she'd read that she had thoroughly enjoyed.

The bell on the door chimed as Bucky walked in. Steve glanced up and Bucky put a finger to his lips. Steve gave a subtle nod and turned back to Anneliese.

Bucky pulled out the ring and let out a soft sigh, gathering his nerves. Why he was nervous, he wasn't entirely sure. Maybe it was because no one had ever made him feel the way Anneliese did.

Bucky stepped into Anneliese's view and she froze as a wide smile crossed her face.

She clambered out of the booth, nearly falling to the ground. She would have had Bucky not caught her.

'You're back! When did you get back? How was it? I missed you so, so much!'

'I got back about an hour ago. It was long and hard work. I missed you too, doll. Hey, I have something important to ask.'

'Is everything okay?'

'Everything is perfect. Lisie, that first day we met, I didn't know you'd become as important to me as you did. Like I told you years before, I think it was fate that I took a sign language course and eventually met you. Every day with you has been a joy. You make the best of your disability and you never let it deter you. You have a strength that inspires me and countless others. And I hope to see that strength the rest of my days. Anneliese Martha Schulz, will you marry me?' He knelt to the ground and pulled out the ring.

Anneliese blinked back tears and nodded.

Bucky slipped the ring on her left hand and stood, pressing a tender kiss to her lips. 'Happy birthday, doll.'

Steve, Walter and Edith erupted in cheers and congratulated the newly engaged couple.

Walter placed his hands on Bucky and Anneliese's shoulders, then signed, 'This calls for a celebration. The meal is on me. Bucky, Lisie, get whatever you want. Just not too expensive.' Bucky and Anneliese smiled. "Steve, Edith, that goes for you both as well."

The five sat in the booth and enjoyed each other's company in celebrating such an occasion.