Alpine's Assistant @alpinesassistant - Tumblr Blog

Safe Chapter Ten

Pairing: Bucky X Avengers reader. - Slow Burn

Chapter Word Count: 24091 (I know, I know, this is insane.)

TW: R18 MINORS DNI,, drunk reader, , possessive Bucky, Swearing, alcohol,

CW: Cheeky shit, cavity inducing fluff, like so much fluff, Protective Bucky. confessions. Never Have I ever. team bonding

Master List

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-Chapter Ten-

You pull up at the tower, making your way inside to see Tony, Clint, and Thor all shouting around a table of cards with a half finished whisky bottle on the table glasses empty,

"Hey honey, I'm home." Your voice calls out with a playful tone.

Tony's head whips around at the sound of your voice, an expression of fake outrage on his face.

"You've gotta be kidding me," He complains, pointing an accusing finger at you, "Now you decide to show up?"

Clint and Thor immediately break out into raucous laughter, obviously having been drinking. Meanwhile.

"Hey, I was busy." You sat with a grin as you walk over to wrap your arms around Tony's shoulder in a friendly hug as he sits.

You run your eyes over his cards. "Oh.. shit hand, Stark." You say with a smirk as you glance across the table to the others.

Tony groans dramatically, throwing his cards down onto the table in defeat. "Of course you'd notice that too," He grumbles, "I don't know why I even bother playing with you people."

Clint lets out a loud laugh before nudging Thor, who raises his glass with a wide grin.

Meanwhile, Bucky lingers near your side, watching the interaction closely. He doesn't say anything, but he does look mildly irritated at how close you are to Tony right now. His jaw clenches slightly when Stark returns your hug casually, like it's nothing.

"Barnes!" Thor says loudly raising his glass. "Another successful mission I assume." He says reaching for another glass before pouring whisky messily into it and passing it to Bucky.

Thor's booming voice rings out through the room, causing Bucky to glance up in acknowledgment. There's still a slight look of annoyance lingering in his gaze, though he masks it quickly by taking the glass from Thor.

"Yeah," He replies gruffly, "Everything went as planned. No issues."

He takes a long swig from the glass, though his eyes stay glued to you as you continue to lean into Tony. His fingers are starting to grip the glass in his hand just a little tighter.

You let go of tony with a pat on his shoulders. "So what's the wager." You say looking at the cards across the table. Clint shoots you a sly smile at your question. Tony just sighs dramatically as he leans back in his chair, clearly still not used to you constantly beating them at cards.

"We're going with double or nothing this time," Clint says, "Loser has to do something for the winners without complaint for a week.

"Ohhh I like that, very nice." You say as you slide into a seat at the table. "Deal me in." You say with a smirk.

Clint spreads out the cards and passes you a hand, letting your eyes look up to Bucky, he's leaning against the counter sipping his whisky.

Bucky's gaze immediately locks onto yours again, his mind already running a mile a minute. Seeing you sitting there across the table, so confident and carefree as you prepare to play cards with your friends, it has his jaw clenching even tighter as he tries to rein in the feeling of wanting to grab you and keep you all to himself.

It takes a solid few seconds before he replies gruffly, "Be careful," Though there's a hint of teasing in his tone. Of course he knows you can take care of yourself, but he can't help but worry anyway.

"Was that a hint of concern I hear?" Tony jokes glancing up at Bucky.

Bucky shoots Tony a half-hearted glare in response, though that's all it takes for the table to burst into collective laughter at his expense, Steve, Thor, and Natasha all grinning uncontrollably at his reaction.

"Shut it, Stark," He mutters gruffly, trying to act like he's not affected by their teasing. But the fact that he can't take his eyes off you is a dead giveaway of his concern for your wellbeing. Even when he turns back to take another long drink from his glass, his eyes can't help but flick back to you.

"Touchy as always." Tony says with a grin, his eyes flicking to you, "How do you deal with him?" He asks, you let out a laugh.

"Oh it's really not as hard as you'd think." You say coyly.

Not deliberately hiding your relationship but also enjoying being back without merciless teasing just yet.

Tony raises an eyebrow at your response, clearly not buying the vagueness but Bucky's hand tightens around his glass as if daring Tony to press any further.

The air is thick with unspoken tension, and Natasha just shakes her head knowingly in the background.

"Mm-hmm," Tony hums skeptically before leaning back in his chair again, "Something tells me you two are keeping secrets."

"Me? I would never." You say with a grin as you look over your cards.

They all shoot you a knowing look at your words, though they don't press the issue any further. Bucky still hasn't relaxed his grip on his glass as he continues to watch you across the room. His eyes are intense as they watch every tiny move you make, his expression remaining carefully indifferent though his irritation is clear. His gaze flicks to the others at the table every now and then, but mostly it's trained entirely on you, like he can't stand to look anywhere else.

You continue the game, not at all surprised that you won.

The others all moan and whine around the table watching you as you just sit there smiling.

An exasperated groan emits from every player at the table as they realize they've all been bested, again.

Thor and Clint look genuinely affronted that they've yet again lost, while Tony just groans in defeat. "How do you do that." Clint says with a shake of his head, "Every goddamn time!"

"It's a gift." You say with a smirk. Already thinking of what you're going to make them do.

"And no complaints the whole week, right?" You say clarifying the terms.

The other three all let out exasperated sighs of agreement, their expressions all varying from disgruntled to resigned. Tony just shakes his head, already knowing he's been beat again. "Yeah yeah, no complaining the entire damn week," He mutters, "No matter what ridiculous thing you make us do."

"hmmm, alright I'll go easy. I'm off dishes for the week. You can fight amongst yourself as to who gets what." You say with a laugh watching their faces.

Tony immediately drops his head onto the table with a loud groan, already dreading the prospect of doing dishes for an entire week. "Oh, come on!" Clint complains, "That's just cruel."

Bucky can't help but let out a low chuckle as he watches their reactions. He still hasn't moved from his spot against the counter though, keeping himself close just in case.

"Yeah? Want me to think of something worse?" You say with a laugh. Clint and Tony both shake their heads in a panic at your words, clearly not wanting to push their luck, they've seen enough of your skill to know better.

Bucky can't help but chuckle again as he downs the rest of his glass, watching you have them wrapped around your finger like that. That same feeling of possessiveness is rising in his chest again, the urge to grab you and keep you all to himself getting harder and harder to ignore every time he sees you laughing and teasing the others so casually.

"Oh actually, you know what.. " You trail off.

The men all let out a collective groan at that, immediately knowing something bad is coming.

"Oh, Jesus Christ," Tony mutters, "Here it comes."

"Seeing as there are so many of you, and only so many dishes.. I want cocktails, again, you can fight amongst yourselves as to who does what, but I think it's only reasonable." With a coy smile, your gaze shifts to tony once more , "though you know I have a soft spot for your mixes." You say with a pointed look.

If it's at all possible, Tony's groaning gets even louder at those words clearly already knowing that he's going to lose this fight.

"Oh no," He protests, "Not the cocktails! Anything but that! No way in hell am I making you cocktails for a week straight. That's just mean."

You bring your cards up again showing the table the winning hand. "Ah ah ah, I didn't make the rules."

Clint actually groans as he drops his head onto the table in defeat, Thor just shakes his head with a loud laugh, clearly amused by all of this while Tony looks completely exasperated as he glares at you.

"This is rigged," He mutters, "I'm calling it. You cheated."

Bucky's still watching from the sidelines with an increasingly amused expression. He hasn't said anything yet but god does he love seeing you like this, in your element, having fun with them all while teasingly holding power over their suffering for the next week.

"How would it be rigged?! I just got back!" You say with a laugh. "Now if you need suggestions for the cocktails you know where to find me." As you send a wink in his direction.

Tony just lets out another groan and shakes his head at that, while Thor continues to chuckle in the background.

Clint just stares at you with an almost pained expression as he mutters: "You are ruthless, you know that?"

"I've been called a lot of things, I can't say ruthless has ever been one of them." You say to Clint with a huge grin on across your face.

Clint just shakes his head as he leans back in his chair, clearly not buying that statement for even a second. "Yeah, well," He mutters, "That's because you haven't made me do dishes and cocktails before."

Tony just grumbles under his breath, still dramatic about the whole thing while Thor laughs heartily at their misfortune.

You look at Thor, I wouldn't mind some of that Asgardian mead at least once this week."

Thor's booming laugh gets even louder at that, his expression lighting up in genuine amusement as he slams a massive hand down on the table. "Ah! A woman with taste!" He declares proudly, "You shall have the finest mead in all of Asgard, my friend!"

Tony just groans again, shaking his head dramatically at the table like he can't believe what's happening to him.

You slide your chair back and stand up. "Now if you'll excuse me I have some unfinished business to attend to. We still on for movie night?" You say before turning to leave the table.

Tony just grumbles something about not being there under his breath, clearly still in sour about this new arrangement while Thor just grins and nods. "Of course!" He says with a wide grin, "Wouldn't miss it for anything!" Clint just shoots you a pitiful look as you stand up, already dreading the week of torture you've given them.

You laugh as you walk across the room, your eyes meeting Bucky's as he places his glass down on the counter behind him. You tilt your head ever so subtly to the doorway towards the hall that leads to the bedrooms before catching Steve watching you with a grin.

Bucky's gaze immediately catches on to the gesture, his expression hardening in an instant as he nods slightly in acknowledgment before taking a small step forward.

Steve can't help but raise an eyebrow at that, clearly noticing the look that passes between the two of you. He just shakes his head with a smirk, his gaze drifting back and forth between you and Bucky, knowing damn well what's about to happen.

You make your way down the hall, till you reach your room, you only but open the door before Bucky's hands are on your waist, his face nuzzled into your neck.

"Where'd you learn to play cards like that huh?"

Bucky's lips brush against the sensitive skin of your neck as he murmurs that question, his voice rough with amusement and something much, much darker. His grip on your waist tightens possessively as he presses his body flush against yours from behind. "Because," He growls lowly, "That was impressive."

"There wasn't a hell of a lot to do in the shelter." You say with a dry laugh.

No one else knew about your past like he did, you'd never spoken about that time of your life to anyone before last night. You're thinking back to your trauma dump with a shake of your head.

Bucky's grip tightens even more at that, his head dropping instinctively to press a soft, lingering kiss to the crook of your neck. The mere mention of your past has his possessive, protective side coming to the forefront immediately, as always.

He can't help it he just needs to touch you to remind himself that you're with him now. Safe and his and alive. He trails his nose lightly along the skin of your neck, breathing in the familiar scent of you as he responds gruffly: "What kinda hell was that place?"

"I'm sure it was a cake walk compared to what you've been through you." Your voice is soft as you turn to face him and pressing a tender kiss to his lips before pulling away "But I sure as hell wouldn't want to go back."

Bucky can't help but let a small laugh escape at that, the sound slightly self-deprecating. He knows you're trying to be comforting, and goddamn if that isn't one of the many reasons he loves you so much. His arms automatically wrap around you, his hold on you strong and secure as he pulls you against him. He dips his head to bury his face in the crook of your neck, breathing in another deep lungful of your scent like he'd been starving for it.

"God, you have no idea," He mutters lowly. A shiver runs down his spine at the thought.

"Hey," You say with a gentle tone, "C'mere." Stepping backwards pulling him with you until the back of your knees hit the bed. Bucky goes willingly, his grip on you never loosening as he lets you guide him backwards. The second the back of your knees hit the edge of the bed, his hands move to gently push you down onto it, not forcefully but with that same firm assertiveness that's just so inherently Bucky.

He follows almost immediately after, one hand resting beside your head while the other cups your cheek, his blue eyes burning with intensity as they flicker between yours and your lips.

"Stay with me?" You say softly, "at least until it's time to go back out for the movie." You say with a smile watching him intently, your body sinking into his touch once more.

Bucky's lips twitch into a smirk at that, like the very idea of leaving you is absurd. His fingers gently tangle in your hair as he lowers himself over you, pressing a slow, lingering kiss to your lips before pulling back just enough to murmur gruffly: "I'm not goin' anywhere." His voice is rough with promise, not just for now but for every night after this one.

You kiss him back softly, nothing heated between you, just pure affection, needing to be close.

You feel him shift his weight so he's laying next to you as you place tender kisses to his lips and cheeks with a smile.

Bucky's eyes flutter shut as he feels the soft kisses you trail over his face, a low rumble emanating from his chest involuntarily. He can't help it, every point of contact with your lips just feels so goddamn good. You can feel the tension leaving his body as the slow seconds tick by, just the act of being close to you like this enough to put him at ease.

He cracks open one eye and murmurs teasingly "You're spoiling me.

"You don't like it?" You say with a sweet smile knowing full well the effect you're having on him feeling him soften beside you.

Bucky's lips curl up into a smirk as he opens his eyes to look at you deep blue and full of nothing but affection.

"You know damn well I do," He mutters gruffly, pulling you even closer so that your bodies are flush against each other. His hand drifts lazily up and down your back, his fingers tracing little patterns over the fabric of your shirt.

"That's what I thought." You say with a smile, kissing him softly once more as you revel in his soft touch against your back.

Bucky lets out a low hum of contentment as your lips meet his again, his fingers trailing up to tangle in your hair, gently massaging the back of your scalp in slow circles. The way he holds you is firm but never rough, just enough to let you know he doesn't plan on letting go anytime soon. "Mmm," He murmurs against your mouth when you pull back just enough for air, "Keep talkin' like that and I might never move from this spot."

"Then I'd be the luckiest girl in the world," You coo, eyes fluttering back open to his. Those words immediately draw a soft laugh from Bucky, his eyes crinkling at the corners when he sees the look in your eyes. His free hand moves to gently cup your face, the pads of his fingers brushing delicately over your cheek to gently tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear as he murmurs lowly "God, you're cheesy."

A small chuckle leaves your lips. "You love it." You tease cuddling into him closer.

Bucky rolls his eyes playfully, but he's already pulling you even tighter against him, wrapping both arms around you and pressing a rough kiss to the top of your head in silent agreement. Yeah, he loves it. Loves all of it. Loves you.

"Shut up," He grumbles gruffly, though there's no real bite to it's just that same protective warmth he always gets when holding you like this.

You stay like that for the next few hours, tangled into him, all doe eyed, breaking the silence every so often with a teasing remark before there's a knock on your door.

Bucky growls low in annoyance at the sound. He was fully content to stay like this all goddamn night and clearly he didn't appreciate getting interrupted.

With reluctance he lets go of you long enough to call back irritably, not moving from his position on the bed at all. "Whaddya want?"

The door opens softy, Natasha walking in with a grin across her face at the sight of you. Natasha barely suppresses a smirk at the sight of Bucky draped over you like an overgrown, grumpy limpet. She crosses her arms and leans against the doorframe, clearly enjoying this. "Thor is getting snacks," she says innocently, "And he insists on feeding everyone like we're his long-lost children. A beat. "...You coming or what?"

"Movie time?" You say excitedly not even caring that Natasha is watching you curled together.

Bucky lets out a long-suffering sigh, clearly annoyed at having to move but he also can't say no when you look at him like that. He grumbles something under his breath.

Natasha just smirks knowingly at the sight, already turning to leave and calling over her shoulder, "Try not to be too cute on the way out."

You laugh and grab a pillow behind you and biff it in her direction, before pulling yourself up into a sitting position looking down at Bucky all soft and comfortable. Natasha dodges the pillow with ease and grins at you in response as she walks out the door.

Bucky just rolls his eyes affectionately at both of you before running a hand through his messy hair and mumbling, "Jesus, I'm surrounded by children."

You stand up reaching your arms for him before opening and closing your hands like a child who wants something. "One more kiss, then we have to tone it down for a few hours."

Bucky lets out a low chuckle, his eyes dancing with amusement as he reaches up to grasp your hands, pulling you down onto his lap instead of getting up. His lips meet yours in a slow, lingering kiss, the kind that makes it very clear he doesn't give a damn about toning it down, his tongue slowly working with yours as he tilts your head back.

When he finally pulls back, his voice is gruff with unspoken affection. "Like hell I will."

"Bucky.." You drawl "we will never live it down, we are seriously outnumbered out there." You smile against his lips.

Bucky groans in reluctant agreement, he knows you're right, but god does he hate the idea of pretending for even a second. Still, he presses one last firm kiss to your lips before begrudgingly letting you go.

"Fine," He grumbles as he stands up, "But I'm sitting next to you."

A pause. Then "...And glaring at Stark if he so much as looks your way."

"Jealous Barnes? You say with a smirk placing a kiss to his cheek before checking your reflection in the mirror, straightening out your clothes and hair.

Bucky's head automatically turns towards you at that, his eyes raking up and down your body with a possessive gleam. "Damn right I am." he replies as he steps up directly behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist and resting his chin on your shoulder to stare at you through the mirror.

"I'll let you off this time, but only because of how god damn good you look right now." You say with a smirk.

Bucky's lips curl up in a smirk of his own as he watches you through the mirror, his eyes darkening slightly at your response. His grip on your waist unconsciously tightens as he leans down to nuzzle into your neck, inhaling your scent like he was starving for it.

"You keep talking like that, doll, and I might never let you out that door," He mutters gruffly against your ear. "Cmon, we gotta go out before Clint eats everything." You say with a laugh before turning your body into his and standing on your tiptoes to whisper in his ear "Besides, we have all night for that." You purr before taking a step towards the door like you didn't just cause his heart to lurch in his chest.

Bucky lets out another low groan at that, his fingers instinctively reaching out to grab you and pull you flush against him.

You can practically hear his mind trying to convince him to skip movie night altogether with the way his body is pressed into yours like he needs to touch every inch of you. His lips immediately start working their way up the side of your neck, kissing and biting and marking you up like he goddamn owns you.

"You're killin' me, doll," He murmurs against your skin, "I swear you're doing it on purpose."

"Oh but it's so much fun." You say with a smile over your shoulder before quickly walking back to flatten his own shirt down so it doesn't look like you just tumbled out of bed.

Bucky lets out a half-hearted grumble as you smooth down his shirt, his hands drifting to rest on your waist again as if he can't stop touching you for even a second. His hands running up your waist in gentle strokes.

The moment you step back though, he quickly straightens himself up, running a hand through his slightly messy hair before turning towards the door with an exaggerated sigh.

"You're lucky I love you," He mutters gruffly before pressing one last rough kiss to your temple and pulling the door open. You beam up at him before walking through the door, feeling him close behind as you walk into the common area.

Bucky keeps close to you as you step into the common area, his hand resting possessively on the small of your back as he surveys the scene. The others are all lounging around, chatting amongst themselves as they wait for movie night to start. Steve looks up as you and Bucky come over, his eyes flickering curiously over you both, a smile playing around his lips as if he knows exactly what you and Bucky were doing upstairs.

"Where's Tony?" You say with a grin knowing full well he's in the kitchen either finishing up dishes or working his way through mixing drinks.

Natasha smirks from her spot on the couch, gesturing lazily towards the kitchen. "Where else? she muses, "Stark's already drowning his sorrows in dish soap.

Sure enough, a loud clatter comes from the kitchen followed by Tony's exaggerated groan of misery as he clearly drops something.

"Proud of you Tony" You shout out towards him as you make your way to the couch and sink down into the corner waiting for Bucky to join, watching the room quietly hoping no one questions it.

A grumble of protest floats over from the kitchen, clearly in response to your words. Tony pops his head out a second later, raising an eyebrow at you with a hint of playful annoyance when he sees you sitting there.

"Oh, ha ha, laugh it up, kid," He mutters with a slight roll of his eyes. His gaze drifts slightly over to Bucky who plops down in the spot beside you, one arm coming to rest casually over the back of the couch like it's nothing out of the ordinary.

Tony's brows furrow down slightly as he shoots a look across you both, looking rather innocent as you settle into the room, his eyes flick to Natasha and she just shakes her head like she doesn't know a single thing.

Tony returns to the kitchen briefly before coming back and placing a brightly coloured cocktail in your hand. "Oh very impressive, what's this one?" You say eyes looking over the glass before taking a sip and rolling your head back. "Fuck, that's good."

Tony grins as he takes a long sip of his own drink, clearly pleased at your enthusiastic response. "That there," He gestures towards your drink, "Is a Pink Lady. A little sweet, a little sour, the perfect combination. He glances over at you with another smirk, clearly unable to resist saying "...Kind of like some people I know."

"Cocktail and a compliment? You're too much." You laugh as you tuck your legs under you, moving slightly closer to Bucky, your knees just about grazing his leg. Bucky shifts almost instinctively at the feeling of your knee against his, like he's drawn to you like a damn magnet. His fingers twitch slightly on the back of the couch, he looks like he wants nothing more than to reach out and pull you into his lap just so he can keep you to himself. Instead, he just grumbles irritably at Tony. "Watch it, Stark."

"What did I do?" Tony laughs as he finishes handing drinks to the rest of the team, placing a bottle of Asgardian mead in front of Bucky like a peace offering.

If anything is going to get a super soldier tipsy it's that.

Bucky eyes the bottle of mead warily, knowing full well what it's capable of doing to someone like him. Still, he can't help himself from taking a long gulp from the bottle, as if trying to drown out his growing urge to just pull you into his lap and forget everyone else is even in the room.

Tony grins, clearly pleased with the effect he's already having on both of you. He plops back down on the couch beside Steve, slinging a casual arm around the back of the couch in a lazy motion. The others are already starting to get comfortable as well, their attention shifting to the TV screen in anticipation of the movie.

"Alright people," Thor booms out suddenly, "let's get this show on the road. It's time for a little entertainment."

"What are we watching?" You quip, hand resting on your knee, your fingers brushing Bucky's leg in the most subtle way you can.

Bucky shifts again as your fingers brush against his leg, his eyes flickering over to you, a mixture of affection and frustration in his gaze. He's torn between wanting to pull you close and wanting to just keep it together. In the end, he settles for moving his knee just barely, so that it's lightly pressed against yours instead.

"No clue," Steve answers. "Thor chose it, so God only knows what we're in for."

You and Natasha recognize it almost immediately as it starts. You both gasp and shoot a look at each other grinning.

It's one of your guilty pleasure movies you watch during girls night. "10 things I hate about you!" You both shout excitedly. All of the others look over at you in surprise when you and Natasha start exclaiming in excitement.

Steve looks a little bewildered, clearly having no clue what you're getting so excited over. Tony and Thor just look mildly intrigued, like they want to see what all the fuss is about. Bucky's brows furrow in confusion at your reaction, his gaze flicking between you and the screen before he shoots you a sidelong look.

"You two like this movie or something?" He mutters as he watches the opening. "Oh it's so good." You say beaming up at him.

"It's very.. fitting." Natasha says with a smirk watching you both. Bucky's gaze flicks to Natasha when she says that, his eyes narrowing slightly, clearly not liking that little hint at all. Still, he takes another long gulp from the bottle of mead, trying to force himself to focus on the movie instead of the urge to pull you in his lap like he so desperately wants to.

"Fitting?" He murmurs, his expression growing more puzzled by the second. You let out a surprised laugh and shoot a look her way. "Smart bitch." You say grinning at her.

Natasha just smirks as you make that comment, clearly amused by this whole thing. Meanwhile, Bucky is still looking more and more confused. He looks like he wants to question you both more on that statement, but he manages to rein it in and keep his gaze on the movie instead.

As the movie starts you see the room slowly get pulled in, watching intently. Despite his earlier reluctance, even Bucky finds himself slowly getting drawn in by the movie. He watches the scenes play out with rapt attention, completely focused on the story unfolding on the screen. Every now and then, he sneaks a look over at you, his eyes flickering over your face to see your reactions to different scenes. He finds himself leaning closer and closer to you as the movie goes on, until he's almost right beside you, his leg pressing against yours.

Natasha can't help but notice Bucky's subtle movements, a knowing smirk forming on her lips as she takes in your closeness. She exchanges a knowing glance with Steve, who just smiles slightly and shakes his head, they can clearly see that Bucky is struggling to keep his composure, his eyes constantly flickering over to you like he's physically incapable of looking anywhere else.

"You right over there Buck?" Steve says with a knowing smile watching as Bucky takes another swig from the bottle of mead, not even flinching at Steve's question, too focused on watching you, not the movie.

His grip tightens slightly around the bottle as he mutters under his breath, "Shut it, Rogers."

Tony lets out a loud laugh from across the couch, clearly enjoying Bucky's struggle.

"Damn Barnes," He says with a grin, "Someone's wound a little tight tonight." You shoot a smirk to Steve. "Oh leave him be, we all know this wouldn't be his movie of choice." You say with a laugh trying to play it off.

Bucky grumbles something under his breath at that, half in amusement, half in frustration. He takes another long sip from the bottle of mead as if to drown out the urge to just grab you and pull you into him.

"Not necessarily," He admits gruffly, "But I'm not complaining." A pause, then he leans closer and mutters so only you can hear

" ...Unless Stark keeps runnin' his mouth.

Tony grins and gives Bucky an overly innocent look, clearly enjoying this whole situation entirely too much. "What, I'm just making conversation here," He says with a slight shrug, "It's not often we get to see our resident grouch enjoying a romantic movie. Can't blame me for having some fun with it."

Natasha snorts a laugh at that, her gaze flickering over to Bucky with clear amusement. Even Steve smirks, clearly loving every minute of this interaction. You finish your drink with one last gulp, and swish your glass at Tony.

"Round two?" You say with a smirk challenging him across the room.

Tony lets out a loud groan of protest, dramatically draping an arm over his forehead as if this is the worst possible thing he could be subjected to. "You're killin' me here," He grumbles,

"Fine, Fine! But this is my last drink, I swear." He gets up with exaggerated reluctance, still muttering under his breath as he makes his way back towards the kitchen. "

Got a whole week of this Stark, should get better with those cards huh?" You shoot back with a laugh, Tony just rolls his eyes and flips you off over his shoulder but it's clear that he actually enjoys this banter with you, even if he'll never admit it.

He disappears into the kitchen, the sound of bottles clinking together as he starts to mix up another round for you both. Bucky can't help but smirk at that, his eyes flickering over to you with a mixture of admiration and affection. He's clearly loving watching you banter with Tony with zero fear or hesitation, and his fingers twitch again against his leg like he just wants to touch you again. You notice Bucky's finger twitch softly and push your leg against his, at this point any one else would just think you're getting comfortable, spreading out on the couch enjoying time with the team.

Bucky exhales sharply at the contact clearly struggling to keep his damn composure. His hand shifts just enough to brush against yours, his fingers barely grazing your skin before he pulls back again. His jaw clenches as he forces himself to focus on the movie instead of dragging you straight into his lap and kissing you stupid right there in front of everyone.

Meanwhile, Steve and Natasha exchange another knowing look both clearly enjoying this way too much. Natasha leans into you from her curled up position in the arm chair beside you.

"You're going to break him." She whispers. A grin curls at the corner of your lips at Natasha's words. You know damn well she's right, you are gonna break Bucky if this continues much longer. You're playing a very dangerous game here, seeing just how far he'll let you push it before he snaps. And for some reason, you're enjoying every second of it. You love watching him struggle like this, his gaze flicking between you and the movie like he's completely incapable of focusing on both at once.

As if to prove Natasha's point even further, Bucky lets out an audible huff from beside you, his jaw clenching so tightly you're worried he'll actually break a tooth. His leg is pressed so firmly against yours now, his whole body visibly tense as he keeps his gaze fixed on the movie, though his eyes keep flickering towards you every few seconds, his expression completely entranced.

"Oh it's not that bad of a movie is it, Barnes?" Natasha jokes as she watches him. Bucky growls under his breath at that half in frustration, half in amusement. He can't help but let out a huff of laughter at Natasha's comment, his expression almost grudgingly amused as he mutters a response.

"Oh, shutup," He grumbles, "It's not the movie, it-" His eyes drift over to you again, his hands clenching into fists on his thighs. He's trying so damn hard to keep himself together right now.

You watch him intently, seeing how hard he's trying to play it cool in front of the group. Clint catches it and pipes up. "It's what? You feeling the mead already?" He says with a smirk.

Thors voice booms across the room. "That is top shelf Asgardian mead my handsome friend!"

Tony walks back in with your drink in hand. A new one this time. You do love how good he is with cocktails. "Oo, and this one?" You say watching him as he moves away, his own glass in hand back over to where he was sprawled on the couch next to Steve.

All eyes shift over to Tony as he walks back into the room with the new cocktail for you, a satisfied smirk on his lips as he takes his seat next to Steve and swirls the drink in his hand. "Ah, yea, this delightful little number is a White Russian. Bit more of a kick than the last one, be careful with that one, sweetheart. You might end up drunk off your ass before the night is through. You take a sip. Feeling the coffee taste mix over your tongue. "Oh 100% yes!" You say leaning back further into the couch, shoulders brushing against Bucky's chest as his arm is still spread across the top of the couch behind me. You keep my gaze on the movie, the tension between the characters filling your chest a little further.

Bucky lets out an involuntary grunt as your shoulder presses against his chest, his arm immediately tensing up like he's trying to hold back the urge to just grab you and pull you back against him. His hand twitches again, his fingers curling into a fist against his leg to try to keep some semblance of control.

On the other side of the couch, Steve is trying desperately not to laugh at the sight of you sitting so damn close to Bucky, he knows exactly how on edge the poor man is right now.

The movie has progressed to the point that the characters are realizing they have serious feelings for each other and you let out a soft sigh over your glass. Tony maybe a heavy handed pourer but they taste damn good.

Bucky's grip tightens on the back of the couch at that sound, his eyes snapping over to you as he stares at your expression for a long second before huffing in amusement. He mutters something under his breath, clearly fighting another urge to just yank you into his arms.

Tony, who had been smirking at Steve and Clint from across the room, finally breaks out into laughter when he hears your content sigh, clearly amused by how invested you're getting in this damn movie. "Oh my god," He groans dramatically, "Barnes is actually gonna combust before this night is over."

You feel Bucky go tense beside me, your watching him with a laugh as he turns to Tony, "not my fault this movie is ridiculous."

Tony laughs in response, shooting a sly look over to where you and Bucky are practically sitting on top of each other on the couch.

"Uh huh," he says, clearly amused beyond words, "I'm sure it's totally the movie's fault you're sitting there looking like a damn statue while your girl sits half in your lap getting invested in the love story."

His eyes flick to Tony, while your eyes go wide as he refers to you as Buckys girl.

You hear Natasha let out a small laugh at your reaction, while Bucky's entire body goes stiff at Tony's word's, his jaw visibly tightening as his eyes dart over to you, searching your reaction. For a second, it looks like he might actually say something in response to that but then he just clenches his teeth and takes another deep swig of the his drink instead.

Natasha is practically vibrating with amusement beside you, her smirk growing even wider at your wide-eyed expression.

"Ohhhh," she murmurs under her breath, "That's interesting."

"That is VERY interesting." Tony says leaning in, eyes no longer on the screen but on the two of you. Bucky's expression darkens instantly at Tony, his fingers digging into the leg like he's trying to physically restrain himself from lunging across the room. His jaw is clenched so tight you swear you can hear his teeth grinding together.

"Stark," He growls, his voice dangerously low, "Shut it."

Natasha just leans back in her chair, clearly enjoying this entire situation way too much. "Or what?" She teases lightly clearly poking the bear on purpose now.

You shoot a look at her, though you can't help the smile that's playing at your lips.

"Why are we picking on Bucky?" You say trying to act like I have no idea what's going on as you try to shut it down.

Natasha smirks at you, her gaze flickering between you and Bucky before she lets out a small chuckle. "Because it's fun," She says simply, "And because the way he's reacting is absolutely priceless."

Steve just shakes his head from where he's sitting, clearly amused but trying to stay out of it. Tony, meanwhile, looks like he's having the time of his life watching this entire thing unfold.

"Ah! You are feeling the buzz now, yes?" Thor calls out.

Bucky shoots Thor an unimpressed glare, his grip tightening on the back of the couch as he struggles to keep his damn composure. He's definitely feeling something right now, but it's not just the mead.

"Not drunk enough for this shit, He mutters gruffly, his voice rough with barely restrained frustration. Tony just barks out a laugh at that, clearly enjoying every second of Bucky's suffering. Steve shakes his head in amusement, though there's sympathy in his gaze when he looks over at Bucky. You can see the way his face is lightly flushed knowing the mead is having a similar effect on him as your own drinks.

You tease and grab the bottle out of his lap and take a swig before passing it back. You splutter from the burn.

"Jesus Christ, Bucky, how the hell are you drinking that." You say looking up at him still wincing from the liquor.

Bucky lets out a rough chuckle at your reaction, his smirk growing as he watches you sputter from the burn of the drink. He takes the bottle back without hesitation, downing another long sip just to prove a point, before leaning in closer, his breath warm against your ear when he mutters: "Super soldier," He rasps, "But don't worry, doll, I'll slow down if it makes you feel better. His voice is laced with teasing amusement, but also something darker, something hungry.

The group only heard him say 'super soldier.' as he whispered the last part only loud enough for you to hear as he lowered his head towards you.

A blush creeps across your face and you readjust. The group all noticed the way you shifted suddenly. Eyes focusing forward.

"Woah woah woah, what's this?!" Tony says enjoying this far too much.

Bucky glares across at Tony, his expression growing more and more frustrated at the way everyone seems determined to push his goddamn buttons right now. His eyes flicker back to you for a split second taking in the way you're trying, and failing to hide your blushing expression.

"None of your business," Bucky grunts in annoyance, "Can we get back to the damn movie?"

"Umm actually I think we need a show of hands on who actually wants to finish the movie because I have a better idea, Tony says as he gulps down more of his drink. He looks around the room at the group. "Hands up if you vote finishing the movie."

You bring your hand up but Steve is the only other person who does, clearly taking pity on you as he knows exactly what you're trying to do.

Bucky lets out a frustrated groan as he sees Steve is the only other person in the room who has his hand raised.

"Goddamnit," He mutters under his breath, clearly irritated beyond belief.

Tony's smirk only grows wider at this turn of events clearly enjoying the fact that Bucky is clearly outvoted here.

"And what do you suggest we do then?" You say watching him over your glass as you take another sip.

Tony grins clearly loving the fact that he's got everyone's attention now. He leans forward, swirling his drink lazily in his hand as he eyes you and Bucky with open amusement.

"Well," He says smoothly, "How about we play a little game instead? Nothing too wild, just something to liven things up a bit.

Bucky immediately tenses at that, his eyes narrowing slightly as he shoots Tony a warning look. "What kind of game?"

Tony holds his hands up, his face the picture of innocence. "Nothing crazy, I swear. Just a classic game of Truth or Dare." He grins, clearly enjoying himself far too much.

Bucky bristles at the words, clearly wanting to protest "Stark"

"Ah, ah, Barnes, Tony interrupts, "You're outnumbered. This is happening. Now shut that pretty little mouth of yours and sit back and enjoy the show.

You can't help the laugh that escapes you, still feeling in control of your body but can't ignore the alcohol buzzing through your blood stream.

"This just an excuse so you and Clint can Mack on each other?" You say with a scoff towards Tony

Tony smirks at your comment, clearly enjoying the fact that you seem to be enjoying this scenario.

"Hey, I've got no shame in my game, sweetheart," He says with a wink, "Besides, you know Clint's a damn handsome man."

Clint pipes up from across the room, his eyes drifting over to Tony as he grins. "Damn right I am," He smirks, "And you're not too bad yourself.

Bucky just lets out another annoyed huff and you laugh again, sinking further into Bucky while putting your free hand up in mock surrender. Okay okay! You start us then, since it was your bright idea I say rolling my eyes towards tony once more.

Tony grins, clearly thrilled that you're getting on board with this idea. "Alright alright," He says, clapping his hands together. "Let the game officially begin." He drums his fingers against his chin, as if he's in deep thought, though you're pretty damn certain he had this whole game planned out in his head the moment he suggested it.

"Hmmm, who to pick, who to pick?" His gaze drifts over to the rest of the group as he pretends to consider his options.

"Ah, I know." He points at you with an almost predatory smile.

"You're up, darlin'. Truth or dare?" You laugh louder, curling your legs up closer under me as you straighten up, bracing for what this night is turning into. "Truth." You say with a smile knowing full well he wanted you to pick dare.

Tony feigns disappointment for a moment at your choice, his shoulders slumping. "Awww, no fun," He teases, "But a deal's a deal. He hums as he thinks of a question, a sly smile playing at the corner of his mouth. "Alright, Have you ever fantasied about someone in this room?"

"What kinda question is that?" you quip back with a smirk.

Tony just laughs at your response, his smirk turning into a full-on cheeky grin. He raises an eyebrow at you knowingly, clearly enjoying your reaction to the question. "Hey, you picked truth," He points out.

"Can't back out now, sweetheart. You gotta answer."

You pause for effect, "Mm once or twice." Nonchalantly taking another sip.

Tony lets out a huff of exasperation at your lackluster response, clearly disappointed that he's not getting the reaction he wants.

"Once or twice," He says slowly, drawing out the words, "That sounds suspiciously vague. Care to be more specific?"

The rest of the group is watching the back and forth with curiosity, clearly enjoying this little game. "Don't need to, I answered your question." You say innocently and turning to Clint.

"Clint, truth or dare?" You say moving the focus to him, Clint lets out a loud laugh clearly enjoying this whole exchange. "Damn, I love how you just shut him down like that," He says before taking another sip of his drink. "Alright, fine. Dare."

"Oo, okay.. Okay. I dare you to.." You look around the room. Eyes fixing back to Tony. A laugh escapes, memory fresh with what the mock flirting said moments ago.

Kiss tony, WITH tongue." You say challenging to shut them both up.

Tony's eyes widen in surprise for a split second before he immediately grins, looking completely unfazed, clearly thrilled with the direction this game is taking.

"Ohhhh," He purrs, "Now we're talking."

Clint, on the other hand, chokes slightly on his drink, his face turning bright red as he stares at you with wide-eyed disbelief. You did not just say that."

"You talked the talk, are you both secure enough in your masculinity?" You tease, Clint just looks like he wishes the floor would swallow him up right about now, his face turning even redder if possible at your challenge. But Tony, on the other hand, isn't looking fazed at all. He grins at you again, clearly not backing down from the dare.

"Oh, I've never been more sure of my masculinity." He smirks at Clint. "How about you, Hawkeye? Still feeling up to it?"

Clint rolls his eyes. "Oh yeah, Laura is going to love this.." He says rolling his eyes before standing up.

Tony just grins as Clint stands up, clearly loving the attention. He makes a show of straightening out his shirt before getting up from the couch and stepping over to where Clint is standing.

"Alright then, Legolas," He says, "Let's make it good."

He doesn't even hesitate, just grabs Clint by the back of his neck and pulls him into a kiss right there in front of everyone. Tony Stark does not half-ass anything.

"It's definitely with tongue." You say eyes glued to them.

The room erupts in laughter and wooping, everyone shouting as they watch Tony and Clint go at it. Natasha is clapping slowly, clearly amused beyond words. Steve just looks like he's given up on life entirely, covering his face with one hand while shaking his head in exasperation.

Meanwhile, Bucky is staring at the whole scene with a look of mild disgust, his expression caught somewhere between annoyed and vaguely impressed by their commitment to this damn dare.

"Well," He mutters under his breath, "That's enough for me." He takes another long drink from the bottle of mead like he needs it to cleanse this whole image from his brain.

"Not for you?" You joke as you flick your eyes to Bucky, knowing everyone's still on Tony and Clint. You beam up at him.

Bucky lets out a gruff laugh, his fingers twitching against the bottle of mead as he leans in slightly closer to you, his voice dropping low.

"Careful," He murmurs, "Or I'll show you exactly what that kinda talk gets you."

His words are laced with playful warning, but the way his eyes flicker over your face makes it clear he's only half-joking. Your eyes darken at him before turning back to the group before anyone notices, thankfully, everyone is still completely absorbed in Tony and Clint, so none of them pay any attention to the little exchange between you and Bucky.

They're all just hooting and hollering as Tony and Clint finally break away from their kiss.

Tony lets out a whoop, slapping Clint roughly on the back before sinking back onto the couch, clearly pleased with himself for completing the dare.

"l admit, It, I'm impressed." You say with a laugh before it's Clint's turn to ask someone truth or dare.

Clint grins at you, still looking a little bit shell-shocked and red-faced from that whole situation, but managing to regain his composure almost instantly.

"You know me," He says with a shrug, "I never back down from a challenge." He scans around the group, clearly considering his options for victim."Ok, Bucky. Truth or dare?"

You feel him groan next to you a small laugh falling from your lips as you turn to him to see what he picks.

Bucky just shoots you a sharp look at your laugh, though his eyes soften once he sees your expression. He sighs, clearly reluctantly conceding to the fact that he's not escaping this game in the slightest. He huffs in resignation before answering. "Dare."

The others burst out in choir of 'oos and ahhs' as Clint thinks of a dare. Clint just smiles at the reaction, clearly relishing every damn second of this whole shitshow. He scratches his chin as he thinks.

"Right, I've got one." Bucky just stares up at him expectantly, expression mostly neutral but there's a hint of hesitance and even a bit of trepidation in his eyes at what kind of bullshit Clint is going to throw at him next.

Clint grins even more, clearly enjoying every damn second of this. "Alright, here's the dare."

Bucky tenses, anticipating the worst as he waits for Clint to spit it out. The entire room is suddenly completely silent, everyone completely focused on him.

"Alright, I dare you to down your vessel." He says, eyes flicking to the bottle in Bucky's hand, still nearly full.

Bucky just stares at Clint for a moment, his eyes widening slightly at the dare. He's clearly trying to keep his face neutral, but there's a hint of hesitation in his gaze, like he isn't exactly thrilled with this particular choice. "You serious?

Clint just grins at him, clearly enjoying this whole thing far too much. "Dead serious, Barnes. Drink up. Bucky looks down at the bottle of mead in his hand, taking a deep breath before lifting it to his lips without any further resistance. He chugs the entire thing in a matter of seconds. There's a few whistles and shouts of approval from around the room, and even Tony looks slightly impressed as he watches him down the entire damn thing. "Damn, Bucky", He says, clearly a bit surprised by Bucky's sudden action,

"You do realize you're gonna be completely sloshed after that, right?"

You take the empty bottle from his hand and place it on the table in front of you. "Bucky.. that was insane." You say, eyes still wide knowing how strong it was, even with him being a super soldier there's no way he's not going to feel that in a matter of seconds, Bucky just lets out a slow breath, his eyes flickering over to you as he tries (and fails) to keep his expression from shifting into something slightly more unfocused. His movements are already noticeably slower, and there's a slight flush creeping up his neck.

"Yeah" He mutters. "I'm fine." The words come out just a tiny bit slurred, something that makes Tony bark out another loud laugh.

You shoot a look towards Clint. "I think you broke him." You before watching Bucky once more, seeing the flush up his neck as he relaxes into the couch further. Clint just shrugs, clearly loving this entire situation. "Eh, he'll be alright. Probably."

Bucky just grumbles something unintelligible under his breath, his movements noticeably more sluggish now as he sinks back into the couch. His head lolls slightly towards you, his expression still stubbornly trying to maintain its usual annoyed scowl despite how obviously drunk he is. "I'm not broken," He insists, "...Just... really comfortable."

YouI let out a small laugh. "Mm yeah okay.." You say watching him like you don't quite believe him with a smile spreading across your lips.

"Okay well I guess you're up then," You say still watching him.

Bucky just grunts in response, clearly not thrilled at the fact that he's responsible for coming up with the next truth or dare, especially given his increasingly inebriated state. He shifts his gaze around the room, still trying to maintain a hint of his usual grouchy composure, though it's obviously getting harder for him by the second. After a moment, his gaze stops on Clint.

"Fine," He mutters grumpily, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Truth or dare, Legolas?"

Clint lets out a laugh. "I'll be nice. Dare." He says with a smirk on his face taking a sip of his drink.

A small, slow-spread smirk curls at the corner of Bucky's mouth, clearly he's got an idea, and it's not gonna be an easy one to manage.

He straightens up a bit and meets Clint's gaze, a hint of smug satisfaction in his eyes.

"Alright then," he says, his voice just barely more than a gravelly rasp now, the mead clearly having its effect on him already.

I've got a good one for you.

Clint just cocks an eyebrow, clearly ready for whatever bullshit Bucky's about to throw at him. He's obviously confident, but also slightly wary of the slightly-crazed gleam in Bucky's eyes. He takes another casual sip of his drink, as if to say 'bring it on.'

"Alright then," He says, a cocky smile on his face, "Hit me." Bucky leans forward slightly or at least, as much as his currently inebriated state allows. His smirk widens into something almost predatory.

"I dare you..." He pauses for dramatic effect, "...to go the rest of the night talking like Thor."

There's a beat of silence, then Tony bursts out laughing so hard he nearly falls off the couch. Steve rubs his temples like he's already regretting everything. Natasha just shakes her head, grinning. Clint stares at Bucky in utter disbelief. "You bastard," He mutters but there's no real heat behind it, just sheer resignation to his fate.

You let out a laugh next to him, your hand sliding down your face as you wipe the grin from your lips. "Oh this'll be good." You say. Clint follows through as expected. Bucky just grins smugly, clearly pleased with himself for the brilliant dare. He relaxes back into the couch, already completely entertained by the whole damn thing as Clint takes a deep breath and starts speaking... in a truly awful impression of Thor's booming voice.

"Friends!" He suddenly declares in his best imitation, standing up straight and raising an imaginary Mjolnir into the air. "I am feeling the effects of the mighty Asgardian mead!"

Bucky can't help the laugh that slips out of him and neither can you as the room erupts in laughter.

Thor looking wide eyed at Clint. "AH yes! My brother!" He says to Clint. Bucky's laugh is rough and a little breathless his shoulders shaking slightly as he watches Clint commit fully to this ridiculous bit. His metal arm is draped over the back of the couch again, fingers twitching absentmindedly as he leans in toward you slightly, clearly enjoying himself more than he'd ever admit out loud.

Meanwhile, Thor just looks downright delighted by Clint's impression his grin wide and genuine as he slaps Clint hard on the back with enough force to send him stumbling forward a step. "Ah! You honor me with your impression!" He booms enthusiastically. "Truly, we are kin in spirit!"

Clint just groans dramatically under his breath though there's amusement clear in his expression too as he plays along. The rest of the group is still laughing hysterically at this entire exchange.

Tony especially seems like he's having the time of his damn life watching this unfold. You can't help but lean forward bringing both hands to your face as laughter rolls out of you at the sight of it.

Bucky glances over at you, his smirk softening into something fonder as he watches your laughter. The way you're holding your face in your hands, the way your shoulders shake as you let the laughter roll out of you, it's endearing in a way that makes his chest ache inexplicably. He's not even watching Clint anymore, suddenly far more occupied with the sound of your laughter than the ridiculous show Clint is putting on for everyone. "Alright my brethren" Clint continues, "It is once again my turn!"

You are nearly crying with laughter now. Sitting back against the couch and wipe a tear from your eye as you try to pull yourself together from laughing so hard, Bucky's expression shifts subtly, his amusement shifting into something far softer as he watches you wipe at your eyes, still grinning. His metal arm, which had been draped over the back of the couch, slides down just slightly close enough that his fingers brush against the nape of your neck for half a second before he pulls away again. He's clearly trying to be subtle about it, but there's a warmth in his gaze that wasn't there before.

Meanwhile, Clint is still fully committed to this bit gesturing dramatically with one hand as he continues. "Verily!: He booms, "I declare... truth or dare shall continue!"

Natasha rolls her eyes so hard she practically looks like she might pass out from it. Clint turns his body towards Steve, eyeing his new target, Steve just looks up from his seat on the opposite couch, looking as stern and stoic as ever as he waits for the inevitable challenge to come his way from Clint.

His expression betrays nothing, though his shoulders do tense slightly in anticipation of what's about to happen. "Rogers!" Clint says in his faux-Thor voice, his hand once again raised into the air as he points dramatically in Steve's direction. The rest of the team is still snickering from the Thor impression, clearly enjoying Clint's performance far more than anyone really has any right to. "I summon thee to the field of battle...of Truth or Dare!" Clint booms, pointing at Steve with exaggerated grandeur. His poor Thor impression is slipping into borderline Shakespearean now. Steve pinches the bridge of his nose, exhaling like a man who's had enough of this circus. "...Truth." He mutters, smart enough to avoid whatever chaotic dare Clint might conjure up.

Tony immediately perks up from where he's lounging, mischief sparking in his eyes. "Oho! Easy question then, Cap, when was the last time you got laid?" The room erupts in laughter again as Steve's entire face turns beet red. Bucky wheezes beside you, whether from amusement or the mead catching up to him is unclear, and promptly slumps further into the couch cushions like a drunk ragdoll. His metal arm slides entirely off the backrest and lands heavily across your shoulders, he doesn't move it. "My god, you guys." Steve says sipping his drink. "Uhh, 1944." he says his cheeks going bright red.

The team erupts into another round of laughter at Steve's answer, Tony in particular looks like he's trying his hardest to avoid falling off the couch, while Thor lets out a booming guffaw of approval at the timeline. Bucky, meanwhile, just lets out another wheeze-laugh next to you, his metal arm still resting heavily on your shoulders as you lean further into him.

Clint claps his hands together, thoroughly amused. "1944! That's a long dry spell, my friend!" You struggle to contain your laughter at Clint's impression as he continues, he really is putting his whole heart into it.

Your shoulders shake as you try to still your laughter enough to take another sip. "This is going to be a long night."

Steve just looks like he'd like to sink into the couch cushions and disappear as the team teases him about his poor love life. His entire face is still red with embarrassment as the laughter continues, though he can't help the small smile that tugs at the corners of his mouth in spite of all the torment he's getting.

Meanwhile, Clint is clearly enjoying every second of it, his expression almost maniacal as he claps his hands together once more and points his gaze at yet another unlucky victim. "Tony, your time has come!"

Your eyes flick to tony to see what he'll pick, Tony takes another sip of his drink before sitting up slightly in his seat, eyeing Clint with his usual air of smug confidence. "Dare, obviously. Bring it on."

Clint grins, clearly, this is exactly the answer he was hoping for from his target. Bucky lets out a huff of amusement from beside you, still leaning heavily against the back of the couch and your shoulders, his metal arm still draped across you like he's forgotten entirely about how much physical space he's taking up at this point.

No one really bats an eye at Bucky's arm around you considering the state he's in, except Natasha who just grins at you.

Tony grins right back at Clint, clearly ready for whatever bullshit dare he's about to throw his way. He leans forward slightly, his expression cocky as hell. "Alright then, hit me."

Clint just smirks, clearly enjoying every second of this. "I dare you," He says in that faux-Thor voice again, "To give Steve the most awkward lap dance known to mankind."

The entire team erupts into laughter, even Thor looks amused by this sudden turn of events. Steve just lets out a groan and immediately tries to sink further into the couch cushions like they might swallow him whole at any moment. Tony shoots up, "Alright cap, brace yourself. This will be the most action you've gotten since.. well. 1944 apparently."

Steve groans again, but obediently straightens up and sets his drink down, clearly resigning himself to the inevitable. Everyone else in the group is barely able to contain themselves, clearly enjoying the hell out of this show. Even Bucky is watching with obvious amusement, his metal arm still heavy across your shoulders as he lets out a low chuckle.

Tony struts over to the opposite couch with all the confidence of a man with a plan, positioning himself in front of Steve before sinking down onto his lap. His hands slide up Steve's chest as he grins down at him with that signature Stark smugness. "Enjoy the ride, big guy." He teases, his hips rolling ever so slightly against Steve's as the rest of the team howls with laughter.

Steve just clenches his jaw and lets out a long-suffering sigh, clearly resigned to his fate. You cover your eyes, sitting up straighter into the couch, unintentionally pushing yourself closer to Bucky. "Oh my god I can't watch."

Bucky lets out a gruff laugh at your reaction, his grip tightening slightly around you as he tugs you in closer against his side, clearly enjoying how flustered you are by the whole spectacle. His voice is rough with amusement when he murmurs low in your ear, "Don't lie, doll. You're totally peeking."

Steve looks like he's seriously considering walking straight out of this safehouse and never returning, his face bright red as Tony continues his ridiculous lap dance with zero shame whatsoever.

You push your hand against Bucky's chest still hiding your eyes with one hand. "Oh shut up." You laugh, feeling your body hot with second hand embarrassment and alcohol.

Bucky just chuckles, his chest vibrating under your palm as his grip tightens slightly around you, pulling you further into his side. His smirk is evident in his voice when he mutters against your hair,* "Make me."

Steve finally snaps, grabbing Tony by the shoulders and physically pushing him off before standing abruptly. "Alright, that's enough," he declares, though there's no real anger behind it, just sheer exasperation as he tries to compose himself again.

The rest of the team howls with laughter at Steve's reaction. Thor especially seems to be enjoying every second of this. Natasha leans forward from where she's sitting across from you both, her grin wide and knowing as her gaze flicks between Bucky and you for a long moment before she smirks. "So whose turn was it next?"

"Yours." You say confidently. You haven't gone yet you say sitting back and leaning your head back over the arm of the couch to face Natasha.

Natasha arches one perfect eyebrow at you, her smirk deepening as she leans back in her chair, clearly unbothered by the challenge. She glances between you and Bucky for a beat before shrugging. "Alright then." Her gaze sharpens on you like a predator locking onto prey. "Truth or dare, sweetheart?"

You sit back up right facing your body more towards hers. "Oh Jesus, me? Really?" You sigh out a laugh. "I'm not stupid, truth." You say as the room ecos out in boos.

Natasha just grins slow and dangerous, as the team groans in disappointment around you. She tilts her head slightly, considering.

"Fine. Truth." She leans forward, resting her elbows on her knees as she pins you with a knowing look. "Who was the person in this room that you were fantasizing about?"

The room goes dead silent for half a second before erupting into chaos. Tony wolf-whistling loudly while Clint dramatically clutches his chest like he's been personally betrayed by this line of questioning. Bucky's fingers twitch against your shoulder where his arm is still draped over it, though he pointedly doesn't react beyond that.

Your eyes widen at the fact that she would out you like that. You shoot a playful glare at her. "I told you that in confidence!" You blurt back.

Natasha just grins unrepentantly. She lifts one shoulder in a shrug, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she watches you sputter in surprise at the question. "Hey, I told you this was a game of complete honesty. Everyone else has had to deal with embarrassing questions, you're getting no special treatment."

Tony is absolutely losing his mind at this point, slumped across the opposite couch with a hand pressed dramatically to his forehead. "Oh my god, this just keeps getting better and better."

You sigh. Looking around the room debating your options. "Can I change it to dare?" You plead. Knowing Bucky wouldn't react badly to it but not wanting to admit that you had a very dirty dream about him a few nights before.

Natasha studies you and your shifting gaze closely, her brows raised in curiosity as you consider your options. After a beat, she raises one eyebrow and gives a small nod. "Alright. You can pick dare. But don't take that as me going easy on you."

Tony lets out an overly dramatic, long-suffering groan from the other side of the room before sitting up. "C'mon, I'm invested in where this is going! Spill it already!"

"Dare. I pick dare." You blurt out a flush across your cheeks.

Natasha grins, clearly pleased by your decision. "Good choice."

She looks around the room for a moment before her smile turns wicked and an idea sparks. "I dare you, to sit on Bucky's lap for the rest of the night."

Bucky's eyebrows shoot up at her suggestion his metal arm shifting against your shoulders as he shifts in his seat. Tony and the rest of the team whistle and holler their approval at the suggestion, with Steve just covering his face with his hands in mild horror.

You let out a sigh as you shake your head with a laugh. "God sake, screw you guys." You say turning to face Bucky with an eyebrow raised.

It was a dare, the room won't get any worse, you try convince yourself.

You watch Bucky who's the most tipsy you have ever seen him.

Bucky just stares at you for a long moment, his expression unreadable (partially because he's drunk, partially because he's Bucky). After a beat, his lips twitch into the faintest smirk as he shifts slightly on the couch, his metal arm moving from your shoulders to lazily stretch along the back of the cushions instead, as if silently inviting you to do exactly what Natasha dared.

The room erupts into loud cheers and whistles (especially from Tony), but Bucky ignores them all completely, he just keeps watching you with those heavy-lidded blue eyes like this is some kind of test. "Oh my god." You laugh as you stand up and climb into Bucky's lap, and lean your shoulder into his chest.

Bucky just lets out a low, amused huff as you drop into his lap. His arm automatically slides around your waist, his grip surprisingly steady as he pulls you flush against his side and turns his head so his nose is a few inches from your ear. He murmurs low enough that only you can hear him, his voice rough with alcohol and the slight hint of a smirk in his voice. "Don't worry, doll. I'll play nice."

You close your eyes in disbelief with a smirk across your face. Before looking across to Thor.

"Thor. Truth or dare?" You say acting like this was all for the dare and you weren't actively enjoying being back so close to Bucky.

Thor, who has been watching this entire chaotic game unfold with the excitement of a child at a feast, suddenly sits up straighter as you call his name. His grin widens immediately. "Ah! A fine choice!" He booms, "I shall choose DARE! For I fear no challenge laid before me!"

Tony groans dramatically from across the room though it's clear he's having fun too. "Oh great," He mutters, He's gonna do something insane and reckless now."

You think for a second, brain foggy from being so close to Bucky once again, his scent a mix of his cologne mixed with the alcohol, you take a deep breath and fill your lungs.

"Alright I dare you to.." You think for a moment before looking at Natasha and wanting to get her back.

"Bicep curl Nat." You say with a laugh.

Thor just grins, his eyes lighting up at your dare.

"Very well. Just watch and be in awe of my godly strength!" He rises to his feet and saunters over to Natasha, effortlessly scooping her into his arms in a show of pure muscle. Natasha just grins at his overconfidence, clearly not bothered by his boasting. She loops one arm lazily around his neck, taking the whole thing in good stride. "Alright then, big guy. Show me what you got."

Thor grins wide, clearly confident in himself. "Hold on tight, my lady. For this will be like holding a feather." He flexes his bicep dramatically, his muscles bulging impressively under his shirt. Natasha just raises an eyebrow, completely unfazed by his display of strength. "I'm bracing myself for the shock of my life." She deadpans.

Thor holds her off the ground effortlessly, looking like he could hold her like that indefinitely. "Just watch the greatness unfold," He says, his voice full of bravado. Natasha, still cradled effortlessly in Thor's arms like she weighs nothing at all, lets out an amused hum. "Impressive," She says flatly, "But I think we all knew you could do this."

She then twists suddenly, using her own ridiculous strength and flexibility to flip herself out of his grip and land gracefully on her feet beside him. The entire team erupts into cheers, Tony clapping sarcastically while Clint wolf-whistles. Thor looks momentarily stunned before bursting into booming laughter. "Ah! You are as formidable as ever, Lady Natasha!"

Meanwhile, Bucky's grip tightens slightly around your waist where you're still perched in his lap, his breath warm against the side of your neck as he mutters low enough for only you to hear, "...Should I be worried about how much fun you're having with this?"

You lean the smallest distance closer into him and hum out your response. "Should I be worried about how you're slurring your words" You say only loud enough for him to hear with a smirk on your face.

Bucky lets out a low chuckles, the sound so low it feels like more of a vibration from where you're sitting against his chest. His metal arm tightens further where it's still wrapped around your waist, pulling you in impossibly closer as his lips move to brush faintly against the skin beneath your ear. "...M'not that drunk," He mutters gruffly, though his slightly slurred words and the faint flush on his cheeks give him away. His breath is warm against your neck.

Tony pipes up snapping you out of it. "Alright, Bucky! Truth or dare." Bucky's attention instantly snaps back to the game at Tony's words, his metal arm finally relaxing its grip around your waist as he shifts back against the couch.

"Truth," He answers easily. His voice is a little raspier and rougher than usual, thanks in part to the alcohol in his system.

You mentally thank Bucky for picking truth knowing just what Tony would pick right now if he had said dare. You watch Tony as you feel Bucky smiling, he really is feeling the mead.

Tony smirks, clearly enjoying this entire situation far too much as he leans forward slightly, his eyes flickering between Bucky and you with clear amusement.

"Alright then," He says, "Truth." He lets the word hang for a dramatic beat before continuing, his grin widening into something outright devious.

"So, when was the last time you got laid?"

Your eyes perk up to Tony as you take in what he's just asked. Your eyes widen slightly as you brace yourself. You can't bring yourself to look at Bucky as you wait for his answer.

Bucky's arm tenses almost imperceptibly around you as soon the words leave Tony's mouth, he's clearly not expecting the suddenly personal question. "That's none of your damn business," He snarls back, his usual gruffness suddenly heightened with the slight slur from the booze.

Tony just grins, clearly enjoying getting under Bucky's skin. "I'll take that to mean never."

Bucky sighs shaking his head. "Alright fine, you want the real truth?" Tony grins, clearly already loving where this is going, he sits back in his seat, his expression smug as he shoots a satisfied look around the rest of the group. "Hell yeah, I want the truth." Natasha just lifts her eyebrows, clearly interested and amused by the turn this conversation has suddenly taken. Steve is visibly bracing for something, while Clint looks downright gleeful. You brace myself because you know what he's about to say.

Bucky just runs his hand down his face exasperatedly though there's still a drunk twinkle in his eye. "About.." he pauses looking at the clock on the wall. "24 hours ago." Bucky's words are met with an immediate burst of shocked reaction from the room.

Tony lets out a whistle of surprise, while Steve's eyebrows shoot up towards his hairline. Even Clint looks shocked by his answer. "Damn," Tony whistles, "Didn't realize you had game like that, Barnes."

Bucky shrugs with a smirk on his lips as he looks back over to Tony.

Tony just grins, clearly impressed by Bucky's surprisingly honest answer. "Not gonna lie, I thought you'd still be a virgin, man."

Bucky just rolls his eyes, though there's a hint of humor in his exasperated tone. "Jesus, I'm not a goddamn monk."

You laugh at Bucky's comment before you see tony think about it a little longer.

"Wait so after a mission you went out and found a bird?"

Bucky's smirk just deepens at Tony's blatant curiosity, his expression shifting into something a little more mischievous as he leans back against the couch, still keeping you close in his lap. "No," He says smoothly, "Didn't have to go out looking for anything."

The silence that follows is absolute. Then, Tony's jaw actually drops open slightly as realization dawns on him. Clint chokes on his drink mid-sip. Steve looks like he wants to spontaneously combust right there and then. "Oh my god," Natasha murmurs under her breath, her lips curving into a slow, knowing smirk as she glances between Bucky and where you're still perched very comfortably in his lap.

Your eyes focus on the wall across the room not able to look at the group as the realization at his words hits the room.

The room is quiet for a moment, everyone, including you trying to process Bucky's unexpected admission. Tony is the first to break the silence, his tone somewhere between shocked and amused. "...Are you saying what I think you're saying?" Bucky just gives him a lazy shrug, his arm tightening slightly around your waist in an almost possessive gesture. as he tucks your head under his chin. "Yeah. That."

Tony blinks in surprise, clearly not having expected that answer. Steve looks absolutely shell-shocked, while Natasha is just trying her best to hide her knowing smirk. Even Clint looks taken aback, though he just looks like he's trying to piece the pieces together in his head. "Damn," Tony whistles. "I never took you for someone who would hook up with one of our team members."

"I never said it was just a hook up." He blurts his words slurring ever so slightly. That's it, that's the moment the entire room erupts into chaos.

"Wait, wait, hold up. Are you telling me you two are..." Tony gestures wildly between you and Bucky, apparently incapable of finishing that sentence coherently. Steve looks like he's experiencing an existential crisis where he simultaneously wants to protect your innocence and also sink through the floor from sheer secondhand embarrassment. Natasha just grins outright now, clearly having known this entire time.

Clint slams his hands down on the table as if making a grand realization. "Oh my god," He breathes out. "You're not just messing around. You're together."

You bury your face in your hands still on Bucky's lap, your face red hot you can feel it through your palms.

Tony still looks absolutely stunned while Steve just looks dazed, like he can barely process anything he's hearing right now. Clint has a look of utter excitement on his face as he turns to look directly at you, his eyes sparkling with barely contained glee.

"How the hell did that happen?!" He bellows, leaning back in his chair. "I thought you two hated each other's guts. I literally thought you were going to rip each other's throats out with how much you two bickered constantly."

"Next question." You manage out, wiping your hands down your face to try and clear the blush still heavy.

Tony immediately perks up, his grin returning full force as he zeroes in on you, clearly sensing a chance to milk this for all its worth. "Alright fine, then answer me this: who made the first move?"

Natasha raises an eyebrow at Tony's bluntness but doesn't intervene, clearly just as curious as the rest of them. Bucky shifts slightly under you, his grip tightening ever so subtly around your waist like he's considering stepping in, but he stays quiet. Waiting for your answer instead.

You glance at Bucky, scanning his face for permission to say.

Bucky locks eyes with you when he feels you looking over at him, the corner of his mouth just barely flickering into a small smirk. He just nods almost imperceptibly, a wordless signal for you to be honest. It's a rare moment of openness and vulnerability for him in front of the rest of the group, but he trusts you, and your answer means more than anything else to him. He keeps his arm wrapped around your waist, his fingers rubbing small, soothing circles against your hip bone.

"He did." You say still not able to look anyone in the eye.

Tony actually lets out a dramatic gasp, clutching his chest as if physically wounded by this revelation. "BARNES?!" He exclaims in disbelief, "Mr. 'I Don't Have Emotions' made the first move?"

Natasha finally loses her battle with staying composed, she snorts into her drink, shaking her head with a look of sheer amusement on her face. "Color me surprised."

Clint looks between you and Bucky like he's just witnessed the single greatest plot twist in human history. "...I am shook," He declares solemnly before collapsing back onto the couch dramatically, "Absolutely shook."

Meanwhile, Bucky just tightens his grip around you slightly, his voice low enough for only you to hear when he mutters against your hair,

"'M never living that down now... thanks, doll." You turn to face him as you mouth sorry to him, your blush flushed across your neck and cheeks. You bury your head into his shoulder as the team continues to make comments and jokes.

Bucky just huffs a quiet laugh against you, his arm tightening slightly around your waist in reassurance as he lets his lips brush lightly against the shell of your ear. "'S fine," He mutters gruffly, though his voice is warm with amusement despite himself. "Worth it."

Tony, meanwhile, dramatically slaps a hand to his forehead from across the room. "I can't believe I missed all the signs. This explains SO MUCH!"

Clint grins at Natasha like he's just cracked some great mystery before pointing at Bucky accusingly. "The way you glared at every single person who even looked in her direction suddenly makes perfect sense."

Bucky just levels a glare at Clint, though there's no real heat behind it now, just lingering irritation from being called out so blatantly. His fingers flex against your hip again as he mutters under his breath,* "Shut the hell up, Barton."

Natasha leans forward with an amused smirk. "Aw, look at that. He's blushing."

Steve finally snaps out of his stunned silence long enough to rub a hand over his face with a sigh. "You know what? I don't even care anymore. Just be happy or whatever." He grabs his drink and takes an extra-long sip like he's trying to drown this entire conversation out.*

Tony claps his hands together abruptly, grinning like he's just had another brilliant (terrible) idea.

"Alright! Since we're all sharing: kissing privileges in front of the group? Yes or no?" You shoot your head up and look at Tony. Eyes wide.

Tony's grin only widens in response. "What?"

Steve just groans with his head in his hands. "Tony, I don't think that's.."

Clint suddenly whoops from across the room. "Go go go, I want to see this!"

Natasha just grins, looking like she's watching this all unfold with intense satisfaction. But it's Bucky that speaks up first. "Sure, what the hell. Can't be worse than the rest of the night at this point."

You wait for Tony to spit out the challenge he's so clearly waiting to ask.

Tony grins almost diabolically. "I love an eager volunteer. Alright then, I dare you to kiss in front of the group. A real kiss, not some half-assed cheek-peck or bullshit."

Steve buries his face in his hands, looking almost physically pained by this entire situation. Clint is literally grinning from ear to ear, looking like he's watching the best show he's ever seen in his damn life.

You go to refuse before Bucky is turning your face to his. "Mm my pretty girl" He purrs, a drunk twinkle still in his eye as he tilts your chin up.

Steve makes a strangled noise of despair in the background as Bucky pulls your face to his, looking into your eyes for just a beat before his gaze flicks towards the rest of the room in a clear challenge. He tugs you more comfortably into his lap before leaning in and capturing your lips in a searing kiss, his metal hand coming up to thread gently through your hair as he makes a point to kiss you slow and deep for everyone to see.

You can't help but lean into his touch pulling yourself closer and letting his tongue part your lips as a choked whimper escapes you.

Bucky just pulls you impossibly closer, his grip tightening around your waist as he deepens the kiss in response to the sound that slips out of you. The noise makes him groan low in his throat, and for a second, it's like he forgets there are other people even in the room.

Tony lets out a loud whistle from across the couch, half impressed, half scandalized. "Damn."

Clint dramatically shields his eyes while still peeking through his fingers. "MY EYES."

Steve looks like he's about to spontaneously combust where he sits, his face beet-red as he throws back what's left of his drink with one swift motion. Natasha just leans back with an amused smirk, clearly entertained by this entire turn of events.

You both slowly pull back to breathe. foreheads together as he tucks a strand of hair behind your ear. You look at him wide eyed as the reality comes crashing down in your mind. That this was in front of an audience.

You blush like crazy, Bucky is still holding you close, his metal fingers still woven into your hair and his forehead pressed against yours as you both catch your breath. He can tell instantly that the reality of what just happened is just now starting to sink in for you, he can see the flush of embarrassment and slight self-consciousness starting to cross your face. But he just keeps his fingers gently tangled in the loose strands at your nape, grounding you back to him once again, before pressing a soft, reassuring kiss to your forehead, not caring at all that his teammates are still very much watching.

You shuffle your body so you can see the room again still pressed against Bucky as both his arms hold you to him.

"Well you asked." You laugh shyly.

Tony just whistles again, his eyes still glued to you both as he grins approvingly. "Fair enough." Clint finally un-shields his eyes to shoot you both a smirk before leaning back on the opposite couch with an exaggerated sigh. "That was... actually pretty hot."

Steve makes an almost wounded sound at Clint's words, looking like he's actively trying to bleach his brain clean of this entire conversation. Natasha just laughs openly, completely unbothered as she shakes her head in amusement.

"You should have seen her last night." Bucky says eyes flicking to Clint with a proud grin.

Steve groans in absolute despair, clapping his hands over his ears as if to physically block out Bucky's statement. Tony, meanwhile, barks out a laugh and nearly falls off the couch in sheer delight.

"Oh my god, I can't believe we're getting actual BARNES locker room talk tonight!" Natasha looks downright delighted at how quickly this has escalated, though she does shoot Clint a warning look when he leans forward like he's about to ask for details.

"Don't even think about it." Bucky just smirks, clearly enjoying the chaos he's unleashed with that one remark but then his expression shifts to something more protective when Clint opens his mouth.

"One more word, Barton, and I'll show you exactly what my metal arm can do," He warns, though there's still a hint of amusement in his voice. Tony claps a hand over Clint's mouth before he can even attempt to say anything incriminating. "Nope. Let's not get murdered tonight."

Steve finally lifts his head from where it had been buried in his hands for the past few minutes, looking absolutely done with everything happening around him.

"...Can we play a different game now? Please?" You just laugh as Bucky tightens his arms around you, his metal arm cool against your hot skin, you laugh thinking about how the group is worried about what he can do to them with it and you just want it wrapped around your body.

Bucky just laughs as well, his metal arm shifting slightly against the small of your back as he feels you laugh against him. The sound of your laughter makes his chest practically swell with joy, and he can't help himself from pressing a soft kiss to the top of your head when you keep giggling.

Natasha looks highly entertained by the entire show though she does take pity on Steve's suffering. "Alright then, I think we've terrorized Steve enough for one night. Someone come up with a less... incriminating game to play."

Tony immediately perks up, snapping his fingers. "I've got it! Never Have I Ever, PG version only. Cap might actually combust otherwise."

Steve shoots him a grateful look while Clint groans dramatically. "Booo, you're no fun."

Bucky just leans back against the couch with you still securely in his lap, smirking as he mutters under his breath, "'M good with whatever... long as I don't gotta move." His metal arm traces idle circles on your hip like he's already forgotten they have an audience.

"I might call it a night." You say watching the room.

Bucky raises one eyebrow as you mention leaving, his metal hand suddenly halting its circular motions on your hip as he looks at you curiously.

"You tired, doll?" He sounds somewhat reluctant, like he wants you to stay with him at least a little longer, the idea of you leaving without him suddenly not sitting well with him at all.

You can't resist the way he's looking at you like he wants to keep you close on his lap even in front of the others. "No" You whisper. "wide awake, I just thought you might want an out." You say pressing a kiss to his cheek before thumbing over his face.

Bucky lets out a soft huff of breath as you press a kiss to his cheek, his expression softening considerably at the gentle gesture. He shakes his head and tightens his grip on your hip, pulling you impossibly closer in his lap so you're pressed right up against his chest again.

"No way, sweetheart. I'm not letting you get away just yet," He mutters gruffly. "I need my pretty girl to stay with me."

You melt into him, no longer caring about the group watching you. The initial shyness under the teasing fading as you look at the man wrapped around you. You kiss him quickly but tenderly, pausing for a moment before turning back to the group.

"Okay fine, I'm staying. Group of absolute animals." You say with a laugh as you shake your head in disbelief.

Bucky grins triumphantly when you turn back to the group, wrapping his metal arm more securely around you like he's making damn well sure you're not going anywhere. His eyes linger on you for a second, admiring how damn cute you look with your mussed up hair and flushed face. He then turns his attention back to the others, raising an eyebrow at the way

Tony is looking at the two of you like you're both the most fascinating thing he's ever seen. "Never Have I Ever, right? I think we should get the drinks ready again first."

You lean into Bucky pressing a kiss on to his shoulder. While Tony goes to collect more liquor, and another full bottle of Asgardian mead to top it off. Your heart humming, body buzzed and feeling like a bundle of light and static and so unbelievably in love.

Bucky grins as you press a kiss to his shoulder, the motion sending a spark of heat straight through him. He holds you a little closer, relishing the feeling of you in his lap and the feeling of your soft kisses against his skin. He knows they have an entire team watching, but he can't find it in himself to care one bit, not when the way you're pressed against him, warm and light and alive, is enough to drown out the world. He just leans into your touch and keeps you tucked against his side, his eyes tracking Tony's movement across the room as he moves to get the drinks.

While the others try to pull their eyes away as they chat amongst themselves. Besides Steve who is just leaning back a proud smile on his face as he watches the two of you, enjoying seeing Bucky so soft and happy looking. spitting image of the Sargent he once was.

Bucky catches Steve's fond, approving expression and meets it with the smallest but most genuine smile of his own. It's fleeting, barely there before he ducks his head slightly toward you again, pressing a rough but affectionate kiss against your temple.

"You're gonna be the death of me," He murmurs gruffly but there's only warmth in his tone.

Tony clinks another bottle down on the table with a dramatic sigh as he flops back onto the couch across from you both.

"Alright, lovebirds, focus up! The game isn't over yet." But even he can't hide the way his gaze flicks between Bucky and Steve like this is some kind of miracle unfolding in front of him.

You smile into him. Kissing his shoulder once more before turning your attention back to the group. Reaching forward slightly to grab the bottle for Bucky and your own drink as you sink back into him, stretching out your legs in front of you as you get more comfortable, your body pressed to his.

You hold the bottle out for him waiting for one of his arms to snake back from my body as you take a sip of yours.

"Damn Tony you're on a bloody good roll tonight." You say eyeing yet another cocktail. Bucky's arm finally loosens just enough to let him take the drink from you, his fingers brushing against yours deliberately as he does. He takes a long swig before setting it down on the table next to him, his other arm still firmly wrapped around your waist like he's worried you might disappear if he lets go for even a second.

Tony grins at your comment, raising his own glass in mock salute. "Well someone had to keep things interesting! And clearly, my talents are being wasted on mission briefings."

Steve rolls his eyes but doesn't even bother protesting anymore, just leans back with a quiet chuckle as Bucky pulls you even closer against him. Natasha watches the two of you with an amused smirk, her gaze knowing and satisfied as she takes another sip of her drink.

"Alright, bags not starting." You say with a smile, Clint groans dramatically. "Fine, I'll take the bullet, but only because I'm a goddamn hero. He sits up and clears his throat before raising his glass with an exaggerated flourish.

"Never have I ever, stolen Stark's tech to use as a makeshift toaster." Tony immediately jerks upright, pointing accusingly at Clint while practically shrieking, "SEE?! THAT WAS YOU! IT TOOK ME THREE DAYS TO FIX THAT!" Clint just shrugs sheepishly as Bucky chuckles against your shoulder, the sound rumbling through you like distant thunder. His fingers trace idle patterns on your hip again under the cover of chaos, completely unbothered by the pandemonium unfolding around him.

You laugh as well, your body still buzzing, nearly overwhelmed with the amount of happiness running through you.

Bucky feels your laughter vibrating against him and presses his lips to your temple again, his own grin lingering even as he pulls away. He tightens his grip on you slightly, letting the warmth of the moment sink into his bones.

"Good?" He murmurs low enough for only you to hear, voice rough with affection (and maybe a hint of smugness that he's the reason for your happiness right now).

Tony, meanwhile, is still indignantly recounting every piece of tech Clint has ever "borrowed" without permission.

Thor egging him on while Natasha just watches them all like this is her favorite soap opera.

Steve looks both resigned and amused at the same time.

You nod against Bucky's body. "So good my love." You say taking another a sip as you watch his eyes darkly, never breaking your gaze.

Bucky's expression shifts into something heated at your words, his fingers tightening just slightly on your waist as he holds your gaze. "Yeah?" He murmurs, voice dropping even lower, rougher.

His thumb strokes slow circles against the fabric of your shirt like he's mapping out every inch of you through the touch alone. The way he's looking at you makes it clear that if they weren't surrounded by their (loud, nosy) teammates right now, well. Things would be moving in a very different direction.

Tony notices the shift instantly and claps his hands together loudly, grinning like a madman. "Okay! New rule: no eye-fucking during Never Have I Ever!"

You break your eye contact and finish the gulp feeling the alcohol burn down your throat. A blush across your cheeks.

"Sorry, sorry. I'm new to this." You laugh, eyes back on Tony.

Tony just laughs, shaking his head. "You both are in that new-relationship, gross-can't-keep-your-hands-off-of-each-other phase, aren' you?"

Bucky just grunts in agreement, not even trying to deny that he hasn't taken his hands off you since the game started. He tightens his arm around your waist for emphasis, pulling you even closer against him. His body is pressed up against you, almost enveloping you entirely in his presence.

You shrug slightly to Tony. "Hard not to." You grin winking in Tony's direction, full of a new found confidence and liquid courage.

Bucky grins at the confidence in your voice, clearly enjoying the sight of you being so comfortable and happy with everyone watching you as you sit comfortably in his lap. His metal fingers flex against your hip like he's trying his hardest to keep himself from just grabbing you and taking you right then and there.

Steve and Clint are actively rolling their eyes at your flirting, but Natasha just watches the two of you with a smirk. Tony just laughs louder than ever before, holding his glass up to salute you. "Damn right!"

You laugh a real laugh. "Thank you, someone who gets it!" You say holding your glass back up to him.

Tony laughs again, tipping his own drink back before speaking again, his eyes flickering between you and Bucky in amusement. "I'm just saying what we're all thinking. About time you two finally got together, You're practically joined at the hip anyways."

Bucky just rolls his eyes at Tony's commentary, his grip on you still tight and possessive as he pulls you back against his chest. "Says the man who spent years ogling after Pepper from afar like a goddamn love-struck teenager."

You let out a loud shocked laugh. "Ohh nice one." You say beaming at Bucky.

Tony gasps dramatically, clutching his chest like he's been personally wounded. "Low blow, Barnes! Low. Blow."

Natasha smirks into her drink clearly enjoying this entire exchange as she glances at you and Bucky again. "Touche."

Clint just grins at Tony's exaggerated suffering before raising his glass toward Bucky in salute. "Damn. He's got jokes tonight!"

Bucky smiles and tilts his head. "I'll be here all night."

Tony gasps even louder, feigning shock and horror while Clint cackles like a madman. "Oh my god, look what you've unleashed. Barnes knows jokes, everyone run for your lives!"

Bucky just smirks and shoots a wink in your direction, his eyes flashing darkly as he gives your hip a slight squeeze under the cover of everyone's laughter. He knows damn well he's putting on a show for you and you alone, and he's enjoying every. Damn. Second of it.

You steal glances at him smiling and laughing, throwing out jokes. It makes your heart sing to see him this relaxed and you can't help but think if it's just the mead or if you're part of reason, seeing how he is with just me is now shining through.

Bucky catches your glances every time, his smirk softening into something impossibly tender whenever he sees the way you're looking at him. He leans in closer, his breath warm against your ear as he murmurs just for you, "You know damn well it's not just the mead." His fingers trace idle patterns over your hip again, like he can't stop touching you now that he's finally allowed to. And judging by the way Tony is dramatically pretending to gag and Steve is rubbing his temples like this entire night has given him a migraine, Bucky couldn't care less who sees.

You catch Tony's mock gag and shoot a look to him "Aye aye, just because you don't have a hot super soldier whispering things to you." You laugh pointing your drink at him.

Tony clutches his chest in mock offense once more, gasping loudly but the grin on his face gives him away immediately.

"Oh-ho! There's fire in this one, Barnes!"

Bucky just tightens his grip around you possessively his smirk sharpening into something downright smug as he raises an eyebrow at Tony. "Yeah well... hands off."

Natasha finally loses it and snorts into her drink while Steve sighs heavily, rubbing a hand down his face. "...I'm too sober for this."

Bucky immediately grabs the bottle of mead from next to him and reaches his arm out with it in Steve's direction. "Try this." He says with his classic smirk, Steve hesitates for a fraction of a second before grabbing the bottle with a resigned sigh, taking a long swig and immediately coughing as the strong liquor burns down his throat. "Jesus, That's stronger than I remember," He rasps out, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand while Clint howls with laughter.

Bucky grins unrepentantly, clearly enjoying Steve's suffering just as much as Tony does. His grip around you tightens again when he feels you laughing against him, his smirk softening slightly at the sound. "Yeah well," He says casually, "Now you can suffer through this shit with us like old times."

Tony leans back, watching the interaction with a wide grin. "Damn, I almost feel like someone should be taking notes here. Barnes being sweet. Cap swearing. What the hell is going on?"

Clint wheezes, still trying to catch his breath between breaths of helpless laughter. "Right?!" He gasps out. "First time we've seen the Terminator actually smile." He turns to look at you and then Bucky.

"You two are goddamn adorable, you know that?"

Bucky places a kiss to your cheek before whispering, "That's all you babe." Against your skin.

Bucky's whisper sends a shiver straight through you and he grins against your cheek, enjoying the small reaction you can't hide. His thumb continues to trace idle patterns on your hip, his whole body practically buzzing with suppressed energy.

Tony just sighs dramatically. "See what you did, Barton? You jinxed it. Now they're being all cute again."

You can't help the stupid grin across your cheeks. "Alright alright, who's next?"

Clint claps his hands together gleefully, his eyes gleaming as he sits up straight again. "Ooh, pick me! I've got a good one." Tony just groans loudly, already dreading what's coming. "God damn it, I'm never gonna get through an entire game of this, am I?"

Bucky snorts at Tony's dramatic suffering, raising an eyebrow at Clint. "Better be good. I ain't gonna sit through another shitty question."

Steve just braces himself for the inevitable chaos as he takes another swig of his drink. Natasha looks completely unbothered as always, clearly amused by the antics of everyone around her. Clint grins clearly knowing he's just come up with some kind of goldmine.* "Alright, alright... I got it. Never... have I ever..."

Steve immediately groans, already regretting everything about this game. Tony just rolls his eyes but clearly curious to see where this is going. Bucky gives Clint a wary look, but still waits for him to continue. Clint leans forward with a devilish grin. "Never have I ever... hidden in a vent to avoid a mission debrief."

Natasha immediately takes a sip of her drink without hesitation. Tony points at her dramatically. "HA! Called it!"

Bucky just shakes his head, smirking, while Steve sighs, clearly not surprised in the slightest. Clint cackles victoriously as he drinks too.

"You sneaky bastards!" You gasp.

Clint grins and gestures wildly, clearly proud of the chaos he's causing. "The vents are just more comfortable than those damn chairs in the briefing room!"

Tony just rolls his eyes, but you can tell he's amused behind his exasperated expression. Even Steve can't entirely hold back a smirk as he shakes his head at the rest of them.

"You're all a bunch of goddamn pains in the ass, that's what you are." Tony grumbles.

"Aren't you glad it was us paired together all those times?" You say with a laugh as you lean closer to Bucky.

Steve taking a big gulp before smirking as his eyes gleam to me.

"Oh yeah like that wasn't pre arranged/" He laughs over.

Tony sputters on his drink as he starts laughing too.

"Oh my god, you planned this out, didn't you?"

Bucky just grins unrepentantly, "Damn right we did. You idiots are too noisy sometimes. Needed some time on our own.

"Ah ah ah, Buck, don't try and cover, you know I know." Steve says his cheeks slightly flushed as the mead starts effecting him as well.

Bucky throws his hands up dramatically in surrender, letting out an exaggerated sigh.

"Fine, Maybe I did manipulate a few mission assignments." He grins at Steve, clearly not sorry in the slightest as he tugs you impossibly closer against him again. "Worth it."

You gasp and look at him, "You did that too?" You thought it was only you that begged Steve to pair you on missions.

Bucky smirks, his expression downright smug now as he glances down at you. "Oh sweetheart... Steve owed me years worth of favors. No begging required."

Tony makes a strangled noise, somewhere between impressed and horrified. "Wait, wait, wait, are you telling me this was some kind of elaborate setup?!"

Steve just shakes his head with a long-suffering sigh, "...You two are impossible." But there's no real heat in it. Just amusement. Your eyes are wide and you can't help the tilt of your head as he tells you.

"You cheeky bastard!" You say, eyes gleaming at him.

Bucky grins, that damn cocky smirk plastered across his face as he holds your gaze in challenge. His eyes are a little darker now, probably partially from the mead flowing through his system, partially from the way he can feel you pressed against his chest. "Damn right I am, sweetheart. Problem with that?" He murmurs, his voice low and rough as it washes over you like a slow roll of thunder across a quiet night.

"Oi oi lover boy, that's enough." Tony calls out.

Bucky just flips him off, completely unrepentant and without breaking your direct gaze. His hand tightens automatically around your waist, almost possessively, like he doesn't want anyone to interrupt this moment. "Bite me, Stark." You laugh, shaking your head and downing the rest of your drink. Adjusting your shoulders as the last drop runs down your throat as you set the glass down.

"That, that was delicious." You say pointing to the empty glass and looking to tony. A hiccup leaving your lips as you sit back up. Tony grins triumphantly, the proud look of a man who knows his drinks are lethal in the best way possible. "Told you. I don't mix bad cocktails."

Bucky snorts at that but still glances down at you with an amused smirk when he hears your hiccup.

"You good there, doll?" He teases, his fingers tracing absent circles on your hip again as if to check for himself.

Natasha just shakes her head before leaning back into the couch with a quiet laugh, "I think that's our cue to cut you off."

With that Tony is back to his never have I ever tapping his chin thinking of a good one. Clint groans dramatically as he flops back against the couch, "Oh come on, what could possibly follow that last round?!" Tony just grins, clearly already plotting something terrible in that genius mind of his. "Oh, I've got plenty more where that came from."

Steve gives him a warning look, "...No."

Bucky just smirks lazily, his fingers still tracing idle patterns along your waist like he can't help himself. His voice is low and teasing when he speaks again: "Never have I ever... fallen asleep during one of Stark's tech presentations."

You take a sip of mead as everyone but Tony takes a drink. Tony squawks indignantly, making a dramatic show of throwing his arms up in mock outrage as everyone takes a sip of their drinks. "Oh my god, seriously?! Every one of you?! That is offensive, you all know I put a lot of work into those."

Steve just rolls his eyes and shakes his head at the engineer, "You spend an hour talking nonstop about how your latest upgrade works before getting to the point! Of course we fell asleep."

You can't help the laugh escape you, " I did try to stay awake but honestly, I don't understand half of that stuff you say at the start." You say a slight slur catching some of your words.

Tony just dramatically clutches his chest like he's been personally betrayed but he can't quite hold back a smirk as everyone laughs at his pain. Even Bucky snorts as he shakes his head in mock disappointment.

"Sweetheart, you are all heartless. You don't need to understand the science to stay awake, you could just listen to my voice!"

Clint laughs uncontrollably, practically doubled over with laughter as he tries and fails to speak, "Jesus... Tony, you really are such a goddamn nerd."

"You have a nice voice, it lulls me right out." You say laughing.

Tony just stares at you in mock horror, completely wounded at the brutal attack. Steve is desperately trying not to laugh out loud, but his shoulders are shaking with restrained amusement as he tries to hold it together.

Bucky grins down at you, his hand automatically tightening on your hip again as he lets out a low, rumbling chuckle. "Damn. Harsh, doll."

Natasha goes next, Tony pouts for a second longer before sighing in defeat, accepting that he's been outranked by the entire group for his apparently boring tech presentation skills. He looks at Natasha expectantly. "Alright, alright. Go ahead."

Natasha smirks, swirling her drink with slow amusement before locking eyes with Clint clearly about to destroy him on purpose.

"Never have I ever... tripped over my own bow during a mission."

Clint chokes on his drink, pointing at her accusingly as everyone else bursts into laughter. "THAT WAS ONE TIME! And it was DARK!"

Bucky snorts against your shoulder, his breath warm as he mutters under his breath, "Bullshit. I've got footage."

You laugh into him. "No way, you're going to have to show me that later."

Bucky grins, clearly already planning to drag out that footage the second he gets the chance, because of course he's kept blackmail material on all of them. "Oh, sweetheart... I got plenty to show you."

Clint groans loudly, "Traitor! You were supposed to keep that buried!"

Natasha just smirks into her drink while Tony cackles madly in the background. Steve is rubbing his temples again like this entire night is giving him a headache, but even he can't hide his smirk now.

Clint glares at everyone before shooting a pitiful gaze towards Natasha, hoping for a change in the subject.

"Alright, alright, I'm over it! It's my turn to ask a question."

Tony looks over with a raised eyebrow, "Alright, I'll bite. What you you got, Hawkeye?" Clint leans against the arm rest, fingers tapping against his glass in thought. His gaze is practically screaming mischief as he looks around the group again. "Oh, I got a good one."

Clint's grin turns downright diabolical as he leans forward.

"Never have I ever... accidentally called Natasha 'Mom' during a mission."

Dead silence. Then, Steve, Tony, and Bucky all immediately take a drink without hesitation. Natasha just stares, slowly blinking before taking the longest sip of her drink yet. "...I need more vodka."

You let out a cackle out that. You watch Nat stand up and swap her bottle for one of mead before sitting back down. Natasha takes a deep, slow sip of the stronger alcohol, her expression utterly deadpan even as the others are still wheezing with laughter around her. "You're all children."

Tony manages to catch his breath long enough to gasp out between laughs, "Oh my god, Cap! You too?! WHEN?!"

Steve just rubs his face, groaning in embarrassment. "...Budapest. In my defense, it was very chaotic."

Bucky who had been laughing silently into your shoulder the entire time, finally lifts his head, still grinning like an absolute bastard. "In my defense... she was acting like it."

Natasha just slowly turns her head to stare at him, expression flat. Bucky doesn't even flinch, just raises his drink in a lazy salute before taking another sip.

Clint is practically crying with laughter at this point, "Oh my god, this is the best game ever."

You shake your head in disbelief as you lean further against Bucky's chest, your body warm from laughter and mead and something dangerously close to pure happiness. His arm tightens around you automatically, anchoring you there like he can't stand even an inch of space between you two right now. His lips brush the top of your head again when he thinks no one's looking, soft enough that it could almost be mistaken for an accident if not for how deliberate it feels against your skin.

You feel Bucky take in a breath. "Okay, never has I ever.. he starts.

You lift your head, looking up at him while the others all go quiet again, waiting for his question. Bucky smirks, his fingers tightening just slightly around your waist as he finally drops his question: "Never have I ever... planned a fake argument with Steve just to get out of a Stark gala early."

Steve immediately takes another sip, this time with zero hesitation. Tony gasps in exaggerated betrayal, slamming his glass down on the table. "I KNEW IT! You two were conspiring?!"

Natasha shakes her head in quiet amusement while Clint wheezes through another fit of laughter. Bucky just looks downright pleased with himself, especially when you dissolve into giggles against him again.

Steve is grinning now too, his earlier embarrassment completely forgotten in the face of this new revelation. "Yeah, you got us. We couldn't take another minute of listening to all those rich assholes kiss Stark's ass or try to 'network' with us."

Tony opens his mouth to argue back, looking downright offended, but then he grins and shakes his head, deciding against it. "Okay, not gonna lie, I can't blame you on that one. Some of my guests are a little... much."

The games continues on a few more rounds before you lean up.

"Okay hold on I gotta pee." You drawl with another small hiccup. The game comes to a halt, most of the others looking over at you with amused expressions. Bucky's arm tightens automatically around your hip again, almost like he doesn't want to let you get up. However, he just nods at your comment, finally loosening his grip. "Alright, doll. Try not to fall over. I ain't carrying you to the bathroom."

You slide off him and stand up. Your body wobbling a little as the blood rushes back through you and the alcohol starts to catch up. You let out an exhale and slowly start walking towards the bathroom.

Bucky watches you like a hawk as you wobble slightly, his expression shifting between amusement and concern. He leans forward just slightly, ready to lunge if needed. "You good?" He calls after you gruffly trying (and failing) to sound like he doesn't care as much as he does.

Tony smirks into his drink at the way Bucky is basically vibrating with protective energy while pretending otherwise. "Oh my god. Just go with her if you're that worried." Bucky shoots him a glare over his shoulder but doesn't deny it.

You get to the bathroom door and your hands fumble with the door handle, you try two hands and still can't get it open when suddenly Bucky's hand reaches down and pushes your hands down gently while pushing the door inside the room.

Bucky smirks down at you, clearly enjoying the way you're struggling, but his voice is still rough with concern when he speaks. "Cute."

He nudges the door open all the way before stepping back slightly just in case you need space. But he doesn't leave. Just leans against the wall outside, arms crossed as he waits for you. "...Yell if ya need me." He mutters gruffly, like admitting that out loud physically pains him.

You smile up at him watching him with so much awe before you feel your body signals and your knees bend together. "Okay wait, - hold on I really gotta pee." You say before closing the door.

Bucky lets out a soft chuckle, shaking his head in amusement as the door clicks shut behind you. He keeps his side turned to the door, arms crossed as he leans against the hallway wall like some kind of brooding sentinel.

"Take your time," He mutters, but there's no real annoyance in it.

From inside the bathroom, you can faintly hear Tony's voice carrying down the hall, "You know if I didn't know any better, I'd say Barnes is whipped. There's a loud thud, probably Bucky throwing something at him.

Steve groans loudly like this entire night has given him a permanent headache.

You finish in the bathroom washing your hands and smoothing over your hair as you hazily look at your reflection, flushed and eyes twinkling, hair slightly messed up so you open the door with one hand and flatten out loose strands with the other.

Bucky glances over the moment you exit the bathroom, his gaze sweeping over your form like a touch, like he's just checking you over to make sure you didn't somehow get kidnapped in the 30 seconds you were gone. He pushes off the wall with his hip as you exit, his eyes still slowly roaming over you like he can't get over how goddamn pretty you are even now when you're tipsy and can't open bathroom doors.

He takes a step closer, his hands automatically reaching out. "How you holding up, doll? Still got your balance?"

"Ye-*hiccup*-s" You say as you correct your footing.

Bucky snorts, amused, but his hands still hover near your waist just in case you stumble again. "Yeah? Sure about that?" His tone is dry as hell, clearly not believing a word of it. But there's no real judgment there just quiet amusement as he watches you try (and fail) to walk straight.

From the couch, Tony dramatically announces, "Barnes! Stop hogging my best drinking buddy!"

Bucky just scoffs and shakes his head without looking away from you, his smirk deepening when he sees how flushed and happy and alive you look right now. His voice drops lower when he speaks again, "...C'mon. Let's get ya back before Stark whines himself into an early grave."

You walk back, Bucky's hand hovering at the small of your back.

Bucky keeps a careful eye on you, his hand hovering just above the small of your back, ready to catch you if needed. But he still lets you walk on your own, clearly enjoying the way you're trying to keep steady.

As soon as Tony sees the two of you returning, he dramatically throws his arms open. "Finally! I was about to send out a search party."

Steve just rolls his eyes while Clint grins at Bucky's overprotective hovering. "Aw man. Look at him being all sweet."

Natasha smirks into her drink clearly enjoying this far too much. "Adorable."

A stupid smile across your face as you hiccup again before curling down on the couch before Bucky.

Bucky grins down at you, shaking his head in quiet amusement. You're so damn cute when you're a little bit drunk, and it's doing all kinds of things to him.

He sinks down next to you on the couch not too far, just barely keeping himself from pulling you right into his laps again. But he still can't stop himself from wrapping his arm around your shoulders, tucking you in close against his side, possessive as hell.

You curl into him on instinct. You look like a love sick puppy but can't help it especially not in your current state.

Bucky just grins, amused. God, he can't get enough of you like this. You're warm and content and clingy, and you're pressed right against him like you can't stand to be anywhere else. His heart is doing all kinds of things as he pulls you even closer, his hand moving idly again, tracing small circles against the fabric of your shirt, like he can't help himself.

Steve is watching the two of you again, eyes soft as he takes in the scene. The man can't hide his damn smile.

"Ah Jesus, they even got Steve, look at him heart eyeing." Says Clint in a grand gesture as he laughs.

The whole group laughs as Steve immediately ducks his head, looking like some kind of awkward teenager who was caught with his hand in the cookie jar. Even Bucky can't help a quiet snicker at that, knowing damn well how much Steve is a softie deep down.

Tony sighs dramatically as he shakes his head, taking a long pull of his drink. "He's always been a sap, let's not act surprised."

You reach for the bottle of mead once more, taking another small sip.

"Hey, I get it, I've also fallen victim to looking at him like that." You say with a laugh.

Tony nods knowingly, grinning as he takes another sip of his drink. "See? See? She gets it." Clint lets out a loud howl of laughter.

"This is honestly the worst game of Never Have I Ever, ever. We're spilling all the secrets just for the hell of it. Natasha snorts, shaking her head with a quiet smirk. "You all act like the entire world doesn't already know that Steve Rogers is a hopeless romantic."

You smile, tracing patterns with your fingers just below Bucky's ribs catching yourself just watching his chest rise and fall.

Bucky lets out this soft little shiver at the feel of your fingers tracing against his ribs through the fabric of his shirt. He glances down at you, your eyes wide and soft and warm as you look at him, your cheeks still flushed from the alcohol. It makes something clench in his chest again, and it's a damn struggle to keep himself from just picking you up and hauling you straight out of this room. But he just keeps his damn hands to himself for now.

A beat of silence passes as the others exchange knowing looks, watching the way you gaze up at Bucky with such open, quiet affection. It's pretty damn cute if they're being honest.

Finally, Tony breaks the silence with a dramatic sigh. "Jesus, you two are too cute for my heart. I'm gonna get a damn cavity watching you guys."

A blush spreads across your face as you catch yourself. "Sorry got carried away, I mean look at him. Jesus Christ like he stepped out a wet dream." You say, words clearly coming out due to the mead as your eyes flick back to the coffee table in front of you.

Bucky practically chokes on his drink, his smirk deepening as he shoots you a look that says 'Oh, really?'.

His grip tightens just slightly around your waist, the heat in his gaze unmistakable now. "Doll... you might wanna be careful with those words unless ya want me to act on 'em," He mutters low enough for only you to hear his voice rougher than usual, laced with something dark and promising.

Tony groans loudly from across the table, "OH MY GOD. NO. NO MORE FLIRTING."

You grin and exhale slowly but a little shakier than you had liked.

"Sorry, sorry, I'm trying." You say, words slurring softly again.

Bucky's grin deepens at the way you're slowly starting to unravel in his arms, your cheeks flushed and words starting to slur. God damn, you're cute like this. He can't stop himself from leaning down to murmur near your ear again, knowing full well it's gonna drive you insane and not caring one bit if anyone else in the room notices. "Trying, huh? Doesn't look like you're trying very hard, doll."

You gasp. "Jesus Bucky, that's not helping my cause." You say gesturing to the room with a bright red flush across your face darkening.

Bucky chuckles, the sound low and rough against your ear, sending another shiver down your spine. He's absolutely loving this. loving how flustered he can make you with just a few words.

"Your cause was lost the second you started looking at me like that." He murmurs teasing, smug as hell. His fingers flex lightly against your waist again before he pulls back slightly just to watch the way your whole face burns at his words.

Tony dramatically flings himself back on the couch, "Alright! I officially hate this game now!"

"Wait wait I haven't finished my drink, ask another one." You plead.

Tony grumbles under his breath, still dramatically sprawled, but finally concedes. He scans the group with a lazy gaze before letting out another loud sigh. "Okay, fine. I'm game." He mutters just before turning his gaze to the group again with a wide grin.

"Never Have I Ever.." Everyone sighs in resignation, already preparing for whatever bullshit question he's about to ask next. They all hold their drinks, waiting.

Tony pauses for dramatic effect, clearly milking every bit of attention this moment has to offer. But finally, his gaze falls on you. "Never Have I Ever, fallen in love in under a week.

Clint groans loudly already knowing where this is going.

"I can't even drink to that Stark, cmon!" You grumble not registering what you'd just admitted to with that sentence.

Bucky's grip tightens around your waist instantly, his smirk sharpening into something downright dangerous as he tilts his head toward you. "Oh? That so?" His voice is low, teasing, and painfully smug, like he knows exactly what kind of confession just slipped past your lips.

Tony looks absolutely delighted with himself as he dramatically points between the two of you. "THAT. That right there. That's a drink."

Natasha just shakes her head in amusement while Clint groans into his hands, "We've created monsters."

"It's not a drink." You argue pointing the rim of your glass at him. "I've felt that longer than a week!" You say waiting for the next round unaware of the slow smiles and realization on Tony's face.

Bucky goes still, holding his breath as he process those words. His eyes snap down to you taking in your flushed cheeks, the way your tongue has unconsciously darted out between your lips as you argue. He already knew you felt something, but this is different.

Tony is looking like he's just won the lottery. "Ohhhohohoho. This just got interesting."

You tilt your face up for the bottle resting on Bucky's knee, tongue flicking over your lips and let him tip a sip into your mouth, eyes never leaving his.

Bucky's gaze darkens instantly, his jaw clenching as he watches that movement of your tongue, the way it teases over your lips like you're doing it on purpose to drive him insane. His eyes never leave yours, the air thick with all the things you're not saying out loud. He's breathing hard, fingers digging into the soft flesh of your hip like he's fighting to stay in control.

Meanwhile, Tony is watching this whole exchange with a look of glee on his face. "Yep. Definitely interesting."

You part your lips as he tips the bottle up slowly eyes still on his darkly before you cuddle back down into him and say "That doesn't count I just wanted a sip"

I say still not registered the realization on the groups faces.

Bucky's fingers flex against your hip again almost involuntarily as he watches the way you curl back into him, completely oblivious to the group slowly putting the pieces together. He exhales sharply, amused and wrecked all at once by how casually you're tearing through his last shreds of self-control.

Tony finally leans forward with a smirk so wide it's borderline painful. "Sweetheart. I think you might wanna look around for a second."

Steve just buries his face in his hands while Natasha smirks into her drink, shaking her head in amusement at how oblivious you still are.

You scoff at him, but look around the room. "Why- what?" You say confused.

Bucky has gone completely still at your side now, his gaze flicking between you and the rest of the group trying desperately to control the way his heart is thundering in his chest at the words you spoke so nonchalantly, the words you still haven't even registered. Steve is still hiding his face behind his hands, muttering something that sounds a hell of a lot like 'damn kids.'

Tony smirks at you, gesturing to the way you're curled into Bucky's side, still blissfully unaware. "You, sweetheart, are giving away a lot of secrets right now."

"I didn't say anything?" You say sitting bolt up right. Looking around the room confused, slowly as to not blur the image in your already foggy head.

Bucky lets out a quiet grumble at your sudden movement, already missing you pressed against him. But he still grabs ahold of your waist, making sure you don't topple off the couch again in your drunken state.

Tony just laughs at your baffled expression, his gaze lingering on your waist, where Bucky's hand is sitting almost possessively.

"Oh, you said a lot, sweetheart. You just don't seem to realize how much just yet."

"Oh my god, Tony spit it out. I didn't say shit." You say still looking around the room with confusion across your features.

Steve is still hiding his face in his palms, but he's shaking with barely contained laughter. Natasha is grinning into her drink like she's watching some highly entertaining reality show unfold.

But it's Tony that leans forward, a slow, almost evil grin spreading across his face as he slowly raises his gaze to meet yours.

"Let's just say, you've been wearing your heart on your sleeve tonight, sweetheart."

"What do you even mean, we already established I'm with Bucky, is that what this is about?" You say through a defeated sigh as you shoot a look to Bucky as if to say 'is he serious right now?'

Bucky exhales slowly, trying valiantly to hide how the look you just sent him makes his heart skip a beat. He glances between you and Tony again, before his grip on your waist tightens again, a silent warning for you to stop being so goddamn oblivious. But the entire group is just watching the two of you like a tennis match, and it's driving him insane.

Tony rolls his eyes, still grinning. "Oh, we don't just mean your little thing with Barnes, sweetheart. We're talking about what you actually admitted earlier."

"Am I being Punk'd? What the hell is going on?" You say sitting up straighter as you shoot another glare at Tony.

Steve finally looks up, shaking with suppressed laughter as he takes in your panicked expression. Tony smirks even wider, thoroughly amused by the situation unfolding. Meanwhile, Bucky is sitting there, trying to will his heart rate down to a normal level. But he still hasn't taken his hand off your hip, and every now and then his thumb will absentmindedly start making those slow circles he knows you love.

"I promise, you are most definitely not being Punk'd, sweetheart." Tony quips.

You look to Natasha for help but she just smirks at you, you try Steve, your eyes meet his with a pleading gaze. Steve just sighs, shaking his head clearly torn between amusement and pity. But he's always been a terrible liar, so the softness in his expression gives him away instantly.

"C'mon you really don't remember what you said? Natasha finally takes mercy on you, her smirk sharpening as she leans forward. "You told us falling for Barnes didn't take a week.

A beat of silence. Then the realization hits like a goddamn truck.

Your jaw hangs open, you sit up straighter, eyes widening in panic, and flashing to Tony, Tony's smirk is so smug it could fuel a nation. He gestures at you with his glass like he's toasting your sudden realization.

"There she is! Welcome back to reality, sweetheart."

Bucky, meanwhile, has gone suspiciously quiet his jaw working as he tries not to react too obviously. But the way his fingers have tightened against your hip? Yeah, he definitely heard that part loud and clear.

"...So," he mutters after a beat voice dangerously low, "how long did it take?"

You gasp softly as the reality is still smashing down into you. Your eyes meeting his, Bucky holds your gaze his own dark with something unreadable but hot his thumb still tracing slow, maddening circles against the dip of your waist like he can't stop himself. There's no teasing in his expression now, just raw, quiet intensity as he waits for an answer. The entire group has gone silent. Natasha smirking into her drink, Tony biting back a laugh at the sheer tension in the air. But Bucky doesn't even glance their way. His attention is fixed entirely on you.

"Doll." His voice is rough now, all humor gone replaced with something dangerously close to hunger. "Answer me."

Our first mission. You whisper watching him like you might break under the weight of his eyes, fear flooding through your veins as you admit something so vulnerable.

Bucky goes completely still at your admission, something like shock and something like pure, raw relief flashing across his face. The breath he'd been holding escapes in a harsh gasp, his grip on your hip tightening almost reflexively like he's afraid he'll wake up and find this is a dream. His jaw is working silently, your words echoing through his head, over and over the truth of it sinking right down to his bones. You'd felt it from the start.

The whole group is staring now, completely rapt at the exchange between the two of you. You swallow hard, completely blacking out the others in the room. Your eyes fixed to his.

Bucky just stares back, eyes tracing over you like he's trying to memorize every little detail of this moment. Every bit of color in your cheeks, every little freckle he can see in your cheeks. Every flutter of your eyelashes as you blink. The way you keep licking your lips, it's like he wants to burn every little movement into his mind. His gaze is so intense now, it's almost overwhelming. It's like he wants to crawl right straight out of his own skin from how badly just wants to touch you.

Before he can even stop himself, his fingers slide up your waist to brush feather-light against the bare skin of your arm. His touch is almost reverent, tracing up to your shoulder and along your collarbone leaving goosebumps in their wake. His thumb gently brushes across your bottom lip, his own breath catching in his throat as he whispers, "Doll, why didn't you say anything?"

Natasha is watching this entire scene with sharp eyes her expression unreadable as she glances between the two of you. Even Tony is watching quietly, some of his usual bravado lost.

"I-um- I didn't - I didn't think you'd-" You trailed off, heart beating out of your chest, your hazy eyes focused just a little harder on his face.

Bucky exhales sharply, shaking his head like he can't believe what he's hearing. His fingers trace back down to grip your chin gently tilting your face up just a little more so you have no choice but to look at him properly.

"You didn't think I'd what doll?" His voice is rough now, raw with emotion. There's something vulnerable in his expression, something desperate. "You didn't think I'd feel the same?" A beat of silence. The air between you two is so thick it could choke someone.

The rest of the group is completely silent at this point. Everyone is watching the two of you with wide eyes, like they're watching something sacred being laid bare in front of them. Tony looks like he's watching an extremely personal therapy session he absolutely should not be seeing, And even Bucky keeps his gaze fixed on you, like he's completely forgotten everyone else even exists right now.

His heart is still pounding in his chest, the reality of your words finally sinking in. He can't hide the raw hope in his expression now, the absolute need to hear you say it out loud.

Bucky swallows hard, the line of his throat working as he struggles to keep his voice steady. "Say it."

It's barely more than a whisper, rough and pleading. His fingers flex against your skin like he's fighting the urge to pull you in even closer, to erase any last shred of space between you two right this second.

"Say you're mine."

The room is so silent you could hear a pin drop, Tony and the others frozen in place, watching with bated breath. But Bucky doesn't even glance their way. His entire world has narrowed down to just you, to the warmth of your body pressed against his, to the rapid flutter of your pulse under his fingertips.

His thumb brushes over your bottom lip again, slow, deliberate.

"Say it," He repeats, voice dropping even lower. "And I'll spend every damn day proving it back."

Steve is hiding his face in his palms again, overcome by the sheer emotion in Bucky's voice. Tony is staring at you both like he's watching a scene out of a movie that is, frankly, above his pay grade.

Natasha is watching the way your heart is fluttering in your chest and the way Bucky's pulse is pounding through the veins in his neck like she'd reading a fascinating book. But you can't focus on any of that, because you can't focus on anything in the world except him. Because those words are everything.

"Bucky.." You whisper, hands trailing up his neck to wrap around him.

Bucky practically growls under his breath, his body going tense against your touch. It's like he's been holding himself back from doing anything this whole time, but now that you're in his arms the restraint is slipping. One strong arm wraps around you instantly, pulling you closer against his chest. The other hand comes up to tangle in your hair, tugging your head back to make you look up at him again, and Christ that possessive glint is back in his eyes, darker than you've ever seen it.

Natasha catches the way your breath hitches and the way your both watching each other with dark eyes, feeling the sexual tension between you. She clears her throat. "You might want privacy for this next part."

Bucky doesn't even glance at her, his entire focus locked onto you like he's physically incapable of looking away. But his grip tightens around your waist, possessive as hell, before he finally forces himself to pull back just enough to actually think.

"She's right," He mutters gruffly, though it sounds like it physically pains him to admit that. His eyes flick down your face again, lingering on your lips for a beat too long before dragging back up.

"Unless you want an audience."

Tony chokes on his drink while Steve buries his face deeper into his hands with a groan. Natasha just smirks and silently stands up clearly ready to drag the others out if necessary.

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