Smiling, I stand in front of the mirror and admire my new dress. It's burgundy, with short sleeves, a corset sewn around the waist, and the fabric clings softly to my upper body. From the hips down, it flares out into a knee-length, flowing skirt that sways with every turn and flutters around my legs. The dress was a gift from my mother, as she made it herself. I definitely need to ask her to teach me how to sew. My smile grows wider the longer I look at myself.
My thick red curls cascade in soft waves over my shoulders, and as I pick up a hair clip from the dresser, I pin the front strands loosely back to reveal my face. Steve's mother, Sarah, had invited me to dinner today after I bumped into her while shopping. I'm beyond excited – so many wonderful memories connect me to the Rogers family. Since I can remember, Steve and I have been inseparable. Our mothers are like sisters, and so we grew up like siblings. I've spent countless hours with him and his family, and they treated me as one of their own. Our parents always secretly hoped that Steve and I would become a couple one day, but the mere thought of it seems utterly ridiculous. That would almost feel like incest – I mean, he's like a brother to me, and besides, I wouldn't risk our long friendship for that. I shake my head at the thought – that is definitely not going to happen. But it's comforting to know that I'll always have a home with the Rogers. A glance at the clock tells me it's time to leave. I quickly apply a touch of lipstick before heading to my bedroom door and making my way downstairs.
The whole house smells of freshly baked cookies. My mother comes toward me, her smile bright and warm as always. "You look stunning, sweetheart," she says, cupping my face in both hands. I return her smile. "Thanks, Mom, I love the dress, it's so beautiful," I reply, leaning in to give her a kiss on the cheek before saying goodbye and heading for the door. "And no goodbye for me?" I hear my dad ask, just as he steps out of the kitchen carrying a tray full of cookies. I give him a kiss on the cheek as well and quickly grab a still-warm cookie from the tray as I pass by. Provisions for the road, I'd say – there's no rule against eating dessert before dinner. I grab my coat, scarf, and hat before slipping out the front door.
The cold winter air hits me, and I bury my face deeper into my scarf to shield myself from the icy chill. The streetlights cast long shadows, and the quiet of the night surrounds me as there's hardly anyone out on the streets. But before I know it, I'm already standing in front of the familiar door of the Rogers' house, ringing the bell. Sarah opens the door with a warm smile. "Hello, Elora, come in! You look lovely." The scent of warm food hits me immediately, and a wonderful melody drifts to my ears. "Thank you," I say with a broad smile, stepping inside. After taking off my shoes, Sarah leads me to the living room, though I know the way by heart. "Thanks for the invitation," I tell her as she heads back to the kitchen.
When I enter the dining room, I see Steve, who's already on his feet, coming towards me. But my eyes are drawn to another man sitting at the table. He slowly stands, exuding a calm, confident presence. He's taller than Steve, broad-shouldered, with short brown hair and a smile so charming it momentarily takes my breath away. I can't help but think how striking this man is. Steve reaches me first and gives me a hug. "Hey, Elora," he greets me cheerfully, and I return his smile. "Hey, Steve," I reply, glancing again at the stranger who's now approaching as well. Something inside me already suspects who he is. "Elora, this is Bucky," Steve introduces him, and the name clicks in my mind. James Buchanan Barnes – Bucky.
Steve has told me countless stories about him, his best friend from childhood. It was a small miracle I hadn't met him before, but like many men his age, he's in the military and rarely in town. Bucky steps forward, takes my hand, and presses a soft kiss to the back of it. "Nice to meet you, Elora," he says with a smile that makes my heart skip a beat. His blue eyes seem to see right through me, and I have to work hard not to blush. "The pleasure is all mine, James," I reply, giving him a smile. "Call me Bucky," he says, his tone gentle and warm. I nod as we take our seats.
Dinner goes by so smoothly. We eat, laugh, and share stories, talking about childhood events. Steve and I share the latest news from town, while Bucky talks about his life in the army. The threat of the Nazis and Hydra is growing, and it's only a matter of time before he's sent to the front. Steve sits across from me, and I can see how much the topic weighs on him. Serving in the military has always been his dream, but his health issues, especially the asthma, have kept him from enlisting. As we talk, I notice how comfortable I feel around Bucky. It's as if I've known him for years, even though we've only met today. Every conversation with him flows effortlessly. I never have to think about what to say, and there's never an awkward silence.
As the evening comes to an end, I stand up, ready to say my goodbyes. But before I can head home, Bucky steps up to me. "I'll walk you home," he says softly, offering me his arm. I gladly accept, grateful for his company, especially now that it's already dark outside.
The walk to my house feels like it goes by far too quickly. Time with Bucky flies by, and I wish the walk could last longer. But in what seems like seconds, we're standing in front of my doorstep. "It was a really lovely evening," he says, looking deeply into my eyes. His smile makes my heart race, and I can't help but wonder how he's left such an impression on me in just a few hours. "Yes, it was. I'm glad I got to meet you," I agree, barely hiding my grin. "It was a pleasure meeting you too, Elora." The way he says it sends warmth rushing through my body. It's freezing out here, yet I feel so warm. I can barely stop myself from fanning my face with my hand. "Do you have any plans for tomorrow?" Now I feel like I'm burning up. My heart skips a little as I realize where he's going with this. "No, not yet," I answer, the excitement bubbling in my stomach. "How about a movie at the cinema?" he asks, and I have to stop myself from jumping with joy. "I'd love to," I reply, my voice coming out far too husky. "Then, until tomorrow, Elora," he says, winking at me before taking my hand and gently kissing it again. The way he says my name, as if it's the most beautiful word in the world, makes me feel like I'm melting. He presses another small kiss to my hand before turning and walking away. I watch him for a moment before unlocking the door.As soon as I close the door behind me, Carlos, my brown and white long-haired collie, runs up to me. His tail wags happily, and he presses his head against my leg, as if sensing that I'm floating on cloud nine. I pet him briefly before leaning against the cool door, trying to calm the butterflies in my stomach. A date with Bucky Barnes. I HAVE A DATE WITH JAMES BUCHANAN BARNES! I want to scream with joy, but before I can take a breath, I hear a soft clearing of the throat. Startled, I look up to see my mother standing in the hallway, arms crossed, with a knowing smile on her face. "I heard everything," she says with a wink. "So, a date with James Buchanan Barnes? Who would have thought?"
My face instantly grows hot, and I try to say something, but the words won't come out. She steps closer and places a hand on my shoulder. "Oh, Elora, you know Sarah and I spend a lot of time together. She's told me plenty about him." She smiles gently. "She always said he was a decent and upright man, someone who takes care of the people who matter to him. Honestly, I had a feeling he'd impress you one day."
I stare at her, my heart racing even faster. The whole situation feels surreal. "If your father finds out his little girl is going on her first date, he's going to be in for a shock," she adds with a grin, and we both start laughing. I groan inwardly. "Perfect," I mutter sarcastically as she kisses my forehead. "Don't worry, sweetheart. Your father will survive."
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Who the hell am I (english version)
FanfictionUPDATES EVERY DAY AT 5 PM! She remembers nothing. Where did she come from? What happened? How did she get here? Where is her family? In short: she doesn't know. For two years, Elora has wandered, never staying in one place for long. Always searching...
