Don't Hide | Bucky Barnes |

41

"I'm going back to cryo-sleep"

I stand frozen for a moment as shock crashes over me. As I comprehend his words, he continues speaking.

"Only until they can figure out this mess in my head. I promise it won't be long and I-"

"Bucky" I interrupt, walking around so I stand in front of him, "It's okay"

In the midst of the crashing emotions of sadness and the familiar pang of loneliness, I find a small smile. I know this is what is best, so I can't be selfish.

"What?" Bucky asks, confusion swirling in his eyes.

"If you want to do this, I'm with you. I mean, this is your chance to finally be free of HYDRA. Who am I to stop you?" I explain. He smiles slightly at me and reaches up to encase my hand in his.

"Have I mentioned that I love you?" He suddenly states. I feel my heart skip a beat and my stomach flutter. I'm still not used to hearing him say it, I don't think I ever will be. Warmth courses through me and I smile back.

"I love you too," I respond, bringing his metal hand to my lips, "And I'll be right here when you get out"

"You know, I never would've had the guts to do this if it weren't for you," Bucky informs, squeezing my hand tighter as a medical technician continues to prep him, "You showed me that I don't have to hide anymore"

"Neither of us do" I assure, smiling at the man who's stolen my heart. He smiles back, leaning in closer to me. Just as our noses have brushed, Shuri's excited voice rings out through the lab.

"Brother! Her blood is mixed with venom, how cool is that!"

We all laugh, the comment easing the tense mood in the room.

"Are you sure about this?"

I turn towards the voice, watching Steve walk up to us.

"I can't trust my own mind," Bucky states, looking more sure about this the more time that goes by, "So until they figure out how to get this stuff out of my head, I figure going under is the best thing right now"

We all take a second to look at the clear capsule waiting just before us and Bucky takes in a deep breath.

"For everybody" he finishes, giving my hand a light squeeze.

"Are you ready, Barnes?" Shuri asks, walking over. He looks to the teen and nods, standing and letting his hand slip from mine.

"Let's do it"

I offer him a reassuring smile as he steps into the capsule. While Shuri taps away at a nearby screen, a few technicians work on strapping Bucky in. A bit of nervousness courses through me, but I shove it aside. I know that he's in capable hands.

Bucky looks over at me as the technicians step back. He just stares for a moment before the corner of his lips turns up.

"You remember when you asked me what my favorite color was?" He asks, repeating my question from earlier.

"Yeah, it's green" I respond, trying to keep my voice from wavering.

"Your eyes are that color" he continues, making my heart stutter.

"I love you, Buck" I rush out as the container beeps once.

"I love you too, doll"

Then the container slides shut, and a blast of ice suspends Bucky in time yet again.

I stand frozen for a moment, my heart slamming against its cage.

"He's gonna be alright" Steve assures, placing a hand on my shoulder.