ZimniyAuthor
Everything hurts.
That is the first coherent thought he manages to hold onto as he forces one foot in front of the other. The pain is not sharp or clean but vast and consuming, seeping into bone and settling there as if it has always belonged. Heat burns beneath his torn clothes while snow gathers in his medium length brown hair and clings to his lashes. Each breath scrapes his lungs raw, and every step through the sixteen inches of snow feels like wading through wet cement. Behind him, a dark red trail stains the white, vivid and accusing.
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Slow burn!! Steve doesn't join the story till chapter 4.
Takes place after The Avengers. (2012)
AN: While the focus is on angst, healing, and the weight of memory, there may be hints of romance or shipping later in the story. If you have a particular ship you'd like to see, feel free to suggest it in the comments. If no preferences are suggested, the narrative will remain centered on Bucky's journey, exploring his emotional recovery without a romantic subplot.
Content warning: This fanfiction contains depictions of injury, trauma, and psychological distress. Reader discretion is advised.
The character of the Winter Soldier is copyrighted by Disney/Marvel; this story is an original work of fanfiction.