Shadows of Trust || A Bucky Barnes Love Story

Chapter 10 - New Bonds, New Beginnings

The next day, Diana decided it was time for Bucky to meet another important person in her life—her cousin, Major William Lennox. She knew that William's strong yet approachable presence could help Bucky, especially with everything he was going through.

As she led William into the compound, Diana smiled warmly at Bucky, who was sitting in the common area. "Jamie," she called softly, earning his attention. "This is William, my cousin. I introduced you two on a mission a while back."

Bucky looked up, recalling faint flashes of a prior introduction during one of their undercover missions. His eyes studied William, taking in his sharp military demeanor but also the relaxed friendliness in his gaze.

"William's a Major in the U.S. Army," Diana added, leaning down to give Bucky a soft kiss on the lips before excusing herself. "I'll leave you boys to chat while I make coffee and tidy up."

As Diana moved to the kitchen, William took a seat across from Bucky, folding his hands on the table. "She's something else, huh?" William said with a chuckle, watching as Diana hummed softly while bustling about the room.

Bucky's lips curved into a small smile. "Yeah, she is."

There was a comfortable silence before William spoke again, more seriously this time. "How're you holding up, man? Diana told me a bit about what you're going through... and I can imagine it's rough."

Bucky shifted slightly, glancing down at his hands before looking back at William. "I don't know," he said honestly. "It's hard to remember anything. I'm just... trying to figure it all out."

William nodded, his expression empathetic. "I get it. You've been through a lot, more than most people could handle. But from what Diana's told me, you've got a good head on your shoulders. And you've got her—trust me, that's worth a lot."

Bucky exhaled slowly, nodding in agreement. "She's been my anchor through all this. I don't know what I'd do without her."

William smiled knowingly. "That's why I wanted to talk to you. I came here to give you a reason to fight, a reminder of what you've still got. And maybe offer you something to clear your head."

Bucky raised an eyebrow, curious. "What do you mean?"

"Well," William leaned back, crossing his arms, "I've got a spot at the base where I'm stationed, out in the countryside. It's quiet, a good place to unwind. You've been through hell, and I figure a few days away could help you reset. Think of it as stress relief. You don't have to fight anything there—just take it easy."

Bucky considered the offer, glancing briefly toward Diana as she worked in the kitchen. "That... actually sounds nice. I've been feeling trapped lately. Maybe some space would help."

William grinned, glad that Bucky was open to the idea. "You'd be welcome anytime. Besides, it'd be nice to have another soldier around to banter with. I think we'd make a good team."

Bucky smirked at that, his guard lowering just a little. "I think I'd like that."

Diana returned just then, carrying two cups of coffee and setting them down in front of the men. She could sense the shift in the atmosphere—Bucky seemed more relaxed, and William's easygoing charm was helping.

"Are you boys getting along?" she asked playfully, sitting beside Bucky and resting her hand on his arm.

William laughed. "I think I've found myself a new buddy," he teased, clapping Bucky on the shoulder. "Told him he's welcome at my base for some R&R if he needs it."

Diana smiled, clearly pleased. "That sounds like a great idea. You could use a break, Jamie." She pressed a kiss to his cheek, her touch soft and loving.

Bucky chuckled, leaning into her affection. "Yeah, maybe I'll take him up on that offer. Could use some fresh air."

As the three of them sat together, sipping coffee and exchanging stories, Bucky found himself feeling lighter than he had in days. William's presence was a welcome addition—he wasn't just Diana's cousin, but someone Bucky could genuinely see as a friend. They started to banter back and forth, their conversation filled with jokes and military talk.

By the end of the visit, Bucky felt more grounded than he had in a long time. Between Diana's love and William's camaraderie, he realized that maybe, just maybe, he could start building new memories, new bonds, and a new future.