𝙴𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚎𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚁𝚎𝚍𝚎𝚖𝚙𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 - Bucky Barnes

2. HYDRA'S PAWNS

PRESENT DAY -  A NEW YORK BAR - LOCATION: BROOKLYN.

As the city outside lowers into the soft hues of twilight, Bucky Barnes and Steve Rogers find themselves seated in a quiet bar, seeking solace in the surroundings. Their booth is nestled in a secluded corner, offering a semblance of privacy amidst the low murmur of conversation and clinking glasses.

It's been about five months since Vienna and the Sokovian Accords, and during this time, Steve has been by Bucky's side, helping him adjust to the complexities of modern life while also aiding in his healing from Hydra's grasp. Whether it's navigating the intricacies of technology or simply lending a listening ear, Steve has been a steadfast presence, offering unwavering support and guidance as Bucky grapples with the demons of his past.

Barnes stares into his drink, the amber liquid swirling as he swirls the glass absentmindedly. "I don't know how much longer I can keep doing this, Steve," he confesses, his voice heavy with the weight of his words.

Steve's gaze softens, his expression filled with empathy as he reaches out to clasp Bucky's shoulder. "You don't have to do it alone, Buck," he says gently. "I'm here for you, no matter what."

Bucky takes a deep breath, his gaze still fixed on the swirling liquid in his glass. "I feel like I'm drowning, Steve," he admits, his voice tinged with frustration. "No matter how hard I try to move forward, the past keeps pulling me back."

Steve's expression softens, a somber understanding passing between them. "It's not easy, Buck," he acknowledges, his voice quiet but steady. "But you're not alone in this. I'm right here with you, every step of the way."

Bucky meets Steve's gaze, gratitude flickering in his eyes. "I know," he says, his tone heavy with emotion. "And I'm grateful for that, Steve. More than you know."

Steve nods, a silent reassurance passing between them. "We'll get through this together, Buck," he says, his voice firm with conviction. "No matter how dark it gets, we'll find our way."

Bucky's shoulders relax slightly as he takes in Steve's words, finding solace in his friend's unwavering support. "Thanks, Steve," he murmurs, a hint of gratitude in his voice. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Steve gives Bucky's shoulder a reassuring squeeze before withdrawing his hand, a small smile playing on his lips. "You'll never have to find out, Buck," he replies, his tone filled with reassurance. "We've been through too much together to let anything tear us apart now."

A sense of warmth spreads through Bucky's chest at Steve's words, reminding him of the countless battles they've faced side by side. "Yeah," he agrees, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Together till the end of the line, right?"

Steve returns the smile, a twinkle of determination in his eyes. "Till the end of the line," he echoes, his voice steady with conviction.

Their exchange is momentarily interrupted by the soft melody of glasses clinking as the bartender approaches, a genial smile gracing his face as he sets down two fresh drinks before them, "Here you go, gentlemen," the bartender announces, his warm tone filling the air. "On the house." His smile remains and both men exchange a grateful glance before turning their attention back to their conversation.

Bucky's fingers trace the edges of the worn notebook in his hands, his expression grave as he considers the weight of his past actions. "I've been going through the list again," he admits, his voice tinged with regret. "Trying to make sense of it all, to find some way to make amends."

Steve nods, his expression solemn. "It's a long list, Buck. But you've been making progress, one name at a time."

Bucky sets the notebook aside, a troubled expression crossing his features. "There's someone else, Steve," he confesses, his voice heavy with regret. "Someone I haven't put on the list."