Readers Assemble!

Library (Bucky Barnes x fem!reader)

"Hey, Buck. What are you up to?" Steve asked. Bucky barely looked up. "Just trying to remember." Bucky often did that, just sat in contemplation trying to remember all the details of his life before the Winter Soldier. "You can't just sit around all day, Bucky. You need to get out sometimes." Bucky looked up at Steve. He was a little wary about being out in such a large city with so many people.

"I agree with Rogers. You're bringing us all down, Barnes." Bucky glared at Sam. "It'll do you some good, Buck," Steve said softly. Bucky sighed. He knew Steve was just trying to help and in truth, Bucky was running out of excuses not to get out. "Fine." Steve beamed. "Great! It may not be a lot of fun, but maybe going to a library would be good for you. Not only could you look for new books, but it's quiet and there's not a lot a people." Bucky reluctantly agreed and got ready to go.

Steve was right. The library was quiet with few people. It was comforting to Bucky. Most people wouldn't know it, but Bucky loved the smell of old books. It gave him a feeling of nostalgia. And he loved getting lost in the pages of a good book. The only problem now was finding something new to read. He really needed to catch up on all the books he'd missed while under HYDRA's control. Steve clapped Bucky gently on the shoulder before going to find a book himself.

Bucky wandered through the library, perusing the shelves lined with books. The titles glared out at Bucky. The library was so big and Bucky couldn't help but stare at the different types of books in front of him. How would he ever pick one or two to try and read? It was almost overwhelming. Bucky bit his lip, trying to figure out what to do. That was when he heard a voice.

"Something I can help you with?" Bucky spun to face the intruder of his thoughts, his eyes wide. "Sorry!," you squeaked out, "I didn't mean to scare you." Bucky relaxed a little. "Y-You didn't. I was just a little- " You smiled. "Lost?" Bucky nodded. You placed another book on the shelf next to you. "That's understandable. Do you know what kind of book you're looking for?"

"Not really. I haven't...had a lot of time to read lately. Maybe something different." Your brows furrowed over your (e/c) eyes. "Well, tell me about your interests. Maybe I can help you." You placed the last book on the shelf and gestured to Bucky to follow you. You lead him to a small table hidden away in a corner and sat down.

Bucky was hesitant at first, but his eyes scanned the room and found Steve. Steve smiled and nodded at Bucky. That gave the former assassin the courage he needed to sit and talk with you. He sat while you waited for him to start speaking. Bucky let his gaze travel over your face. He found nothing threatening or judgmental. Only curiosity and a willingness to help.

After a few minutes, Bucky took a deep breath and asked, "Do you have any books on the mind? Like the human brain?" You scrunched your brows again. "Sure do. A lot. Are you interested in psychology?" Bucky nodded, unsure of himself and you smiled. "Hey, it's okay. I wasn't judging your interests. I never would. I just want to make sure we find the right books for you. Come with me and let's see what we can find."

Bucky got up and followed you through the library to the section you were looking for. "Here we go. All the books we have on psychology and the inner workings of the brain. Peruse through these and then maybe we can find something a little more light-hearted as well. I've read most of these and they aren't exactly the easiest books to get through. I'll be around if you need me again." You turned on your heel and headed off, leaving Bucky to watch you.

Bucky stared at the empty space you had occupied for a couple seconds too long before shaking his head. "Get it together, Barnes," he muttered to himself. He focused his attention back on the books, hoping to find one that could help him with his problem. He found a couple that looked to be worth a read then went in search of you again. Maybe you'd help him find a book that's he'd read back in the 40s. Something familiar that could be comforting. Maybe he'd also find a reason to learn your name.