//Yeah I think that would be giving Marvel studios too much credit, but I absolutely love that idea. I mean, for Cap's movie arc, he removed the white star from his outfit *because* he has become disillusioned with the modern America. America is not the country he loved and fought for in the forties

//TELL TELL TELL PLEASE

//sure!

//Hi! You're most welcome! Likewise to you, my friend!

//OH MY GOD HELLO AGAIN!! I MISSED YOU!!

"Gladly, partner." Steve's smile only grew as he leaned forward, placing a gentle kiss on their cheek before leaning his head into the crook of their neck.

Steve could only smile in the face of Bucky's endearing words. He wraps his arms around them, holding them securely. "Then how about I come closer to you, Buck?"

Steve smiled, looking at Bucky with warm regard. "What are you thinking about, Bucky?"

"You don't have to be embarrassed you know. We go way back. We've always been there for each other. That won't change. Not now, not ever."

Steve gently reached for Bucky's hand, not taking the block away, but just gently and reassuringly putting his palm on top of Bucky's hand.

//sobbing brb

"It's okay Bucky." Steve loosens his embrace enough to pull back and look at Bucky in the eyes. The pain in their eyes tore at Steve's heartstrings.

"I've got you, pal."

"Bucky... You're your own person. Only you get to decide what 'you're supposed to do.' You're not that soldier anymore. You're a person, just like the rest of us."

Steve holds Bucky close, trying to reassure them with warm encouragement.

Steve slowly opened the door to their apartment, a slight ache plaguing his back. As he walked in, the smell of Bucky's lasagna hit his nostrils, and almost immediately, Steve's stomach growled.

"Bucky? I'm home!"

He couldn't help but smile. Bucky was always so thoughtful.

"Bucky... Don't be sorry. you've done nothing wrong. It's okay, pal."

Steve didn't understand that last part of what Bucky said, but he didn't necessarily need to understand. He just needed to be there for them.

"It's okay, Buck... You're safe. I'm here, Buck..."

Steve runs his hand up and down Bucky's back in a soothing manner, holding his best friend with reverence and compassion. He wouldn't let Bucky be alone during their time of need. Steve would always be there.

"Bucky, have I ever lied to you?" Steve replied calmly, doing his best to calm Bucky down. He held them in his arms warmly, securely, and safely. "Only you get to define what 'you're supposed to be like.' Not me, not your former handler... Just you."