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Out of your Head: chapters 1-11

Synopsis: Your dad is your best friend. He’s always been there for you as both a father and best friend. From the moment your mom walked out on you both he took on more than he ever planned to with no complaints. From teaching you how to change oil in the car to learning the best way to take care of and style your hair type, you never wanted for anything.

And even though you’ve been out of college and living on your own for years, not much has changed with you two. You refuse to move too far away from him. Unwilling to give up your Saturdays of watching football together, or your Sunday night dinners in the off season. This Sunday dinner is going to be a lot different. And you could never predict how it changes your life.

Notes/Warnings: Bucky x f!reader. Bucky is DBF (Dad's best friend, low key my new favorite troupe) Reader is well out of college no specific age mentioned. Posted this on Ao3 already, thought maybe tumblr would like it too. Just posting it in 2 halves here.

chapters 1-11 word count 20k

MDNI 18+ only please.

1 Life Changing Bake ziti

Your dad lands from his big business trip any minute now. And you’re confident it went well. With your dad’s knowledge and charisma, he’s unstoppable. But you’re not sure if you’re in the mood to celebrate. Normally Chad would be joining you two and you’d happily take the spot as the third wheel. You love how much your dad and boyfriend got along, oh well, Ex boyfriend. He broke up with you two weeks ago. After two years together and discussions of marriage. He doesn’t want to stay here anymore. He wants to move out to San Diego. And 7 hours away from your dad is just too far away for your liking. So he split. Dad’s been in Vancouver for almost a month working on this big merger for his company. He calls every other night of course to update you on everything and check on you. But you just haven't had the heart to tell him the news. You wouldn’t want him to worry, or worse drop everything and come home. This merger was too important to him, you’d never forgive yourself.

You’re going to try to hide the news for at least one day. You pop the ziti in the oven so it’s ready just in time for him to get home. You work on the dishes you’ve dirtied as you brainstorm excuses to why Chad isn’t here. You land on him not feeling well even though you’re not confident it will go over well. You’re a very bad liar. Suddenly your phone rings.

“Hey Pops!! You just land?”

“Hey sweetheart! Yeah just got in the uber should be home in 45 mins or so. We still on for dinner?”

“What a stupid question of course we are, it’s Sunday! I just popped the ziti in the oven!”

“You’re making ziti? You spoil me! Can’t wait to see you! You and Chad at the house already?”

“Uhh, it’s actually just me tonight…. Chad's feeling under the weather. Didn’t want to get you sick.”

“Oh man. I’ll text him hope he gets to feeling better.”

“NO!!…. That’s okay dad, he was uuuh… sleeping when I left…. Let’s not wake him up”

“…Okay sweetheart….. well I hope you made enough, a friend of mine will be joining us tonight. Is that okay?”

“Oh that’s great!! Can’t wait to meet her.”

“Him actually. I was gonna wait to tell you but screw it. It’s my new business partner!! The merger went through flawlessly!”

“That’s amazing Pops!!! I’m so proud of you.”

“Aww shucks don’t be. I’m the one proud of you. Well I’ll let you go. We’ll be there soon”

Great.

Now on top of hiding your broken heart from your best friend, you have to play happy and get to know this guy. Sounds like he’s going to be around more. Which is honestly great for your dad. He needs more friends than just you. Maybe this guy will encourage him to finally start dating again…

Your phone starts ringing again, you’ve never been this popular on a Sunday evening. This time it’s Meghan.

“Hey girl what’s up!!”

“Hey am I interrupting dinner?”

“No he’s not even home yet, why? Everything okay?”

“Oh good, everything is wonderful. I’m texting you an article right now. Please open it.”

I place her on speaker and open our text thread. The headline reads “Bucky Barnes lands in Sacramento California.” posted 30 minutes ago.

“NO FUCKING WAY!”

Your best friend menacingly laughing on the other end. “You’re welcome!”

You have had a major crush on Bucky Barnes since you had to do a history report on him senior year of high school. Everything about him makes your knees weak and heart stumble. The ice shade of blue in his eyes, his strength to overcome the hell he’s been through, that vibranium arm leaving you with filthy questions and his dark hair that you’ve dreamt about running your fingers through countless times. The thought of him in the same city as you has you clenching your thighs together.

“You know what this means?!”

“That he’s in the same city as you at the same time you’re newly single?”

…. That wasn’t your first thought but holy fuck she’s got a point. “Well…. Yes but no. My dad was at the airport at the same time as him! His flight also just landed less than an hour ago.”

“So? Does your dad know you’re in love with him?”

“Oh God no. He’d tease me relentlessly about it.”

“No kidding. Well, I don’t know why he’s here or why it’s even news worthy really but…. The timing seems like a gift from the universe.”

“…. Yeah maybe…. Look at him in the suit…holy fuck.”

“I know girl. I know…. You wanna maybe hit the town tomorrow? Play tourist. See if we happen to run into anyone?”

“That sounds crazy….”

“When has that ever stopped me?”

“Fuck it. Let’s do it. Pick me up at 8 we’ll start at the coffee shops”

“Sounds good. Love your crazy bitch”

“Love you enabler.”

You finish up the dishes with a little more pep in your step. That silly news is what’s going to get you through this dinner. How are you still so giddy about this crush 7 years later? Look at him, who could blame you? As long as you don’t dive back into your fic writing era, you’ll be fine. But you will definitely be reading some tonight before bed. As you dry off the last mixing bowl and put it away you hear the front door swing open.

“Sweetheart I’m back!!”

You come running around the corner giving your dad a big hug “hey Pops!!! Missed you”

“Missed you too kid.” He lets go of your embrace and steps to the side. Starting to introduce his friend beside him but his words fall silent on your ears. His friend needs no introduction.

James Buchanan Barnes is standing beside your father. Making intentional, kind eye contact with you. Smiling wide.You take a breath in and forget how to exhale. Those steal blue eyes brighter in person than you could have ever imagined. He reaches his right hand out to you. Your name escaping his lips as if it was only ever meant for him to speak. Your body finally remembers how to breathe. Hoping he doesn’t notice your quickening breath. “….. it’s nice to finally meet you. Your dad has told me so much about you, I feel like I already know you.”

You blink twice and pinch your thigh to make sure you’re not sleeping. Nothing changes but you’re still not convinced. You take his hand. The warmth of his skin is electrifying and arousing. You smile back at him praying he can’t tell how tightly you’re squeezing your thighs together and your cheeks blush. “Oh gosh, hopefully nothing embarrassing. Nice to meet you Bucky.”

Holy crap is this really happening?!

They step inside bringing in their bags. You figure you have two ways to play this. Unphased or trapped by your long time crush. If you are going to be unphased you need some wine. Meghan’s voice in your head telling you to go for it gives you the confidence boost you need. “Leave your bags there boys, the ziti is ready. Pinot Noir good for everyone?”

Your dad eagerly heads to the kitchen grabbing the wine glasses. As Bucky shyly follows.

“Is that baked ziti I’m smelling? It smells incredible. Pinot Noir sounds perfect. Thank you…”

Your name slips through his lips again. You relish how naturally it falls off his tongue.

They sit down as I pour the glasses. Both politely thanked me. Bucky’s eyes linger on yours a heartbeat longer than expected.

“Oh let me get the ziti out for you.” Pops tries to get up and pretend to be helpful. When you both know you never allow that during our Sunday dinners. After all he’s done for you all your life, it’s the least you can do.

“Sit your ass down. You know these dinners are always mine to run. Don’t try showing off to your friend like you’re helpful.”

They both laugh, Bucky’s laugh wrapping around you like a warm hug. You go to grab the ziti out of the oven and Bucky whispers to your dad “you didn’t mention she was sassy.” Making them both laugh again. Oh you have no idea James… You let the ziti cool a moment and quickly text Meghan. ‘GIRL I AM SO FUCKED. I know why he’s in town…..’ Suddenly Bucky is walking up to you in the kitchen so you quickly hit send and put your phone away.

“Could you point me in the right direction for a glass for water? I’m just parched from that flight and don’t mind getting it myself.”

Internally fighting the urge to drop on your knees right there when your phone buzzes about 6 times in a row in your pocket. Reminding you of Meghan. She’d want you to play this cool. Even a little coy.

“Cabinet right above your head, filtered water on the fridge door. Cubed ice only, crushed ice doesn’t work.” You quickly and kindly inform him. He touches your arm as he walks past with a glass to the fridge. His touch lingering on your skin. You look away and start to plate the ziti.

He walks up to one plate as you finish plating one for each of you “May I?” You nod as you grab two plates and head to the table and he takes his own. He winks at you before following behind you.

Your phone continues to buzz in your pocket. Poor Meghan, you left her on the cliff hanger of the century but she will have to wait. She’ll understand once you tell her James Buchanan fucking Barnes is eating your home made baked ziti right now and MOANING INTO HIS FORK.

“Wow… this is delicious…” he finally says. You can’t help but blush and shyly smile as you sip your wine. His moans will be ringing in the back of your mind, probably for the rest of your life.

“I’m glad you like it. So tell me more about Vancouver!! Did either of you get to do any sight seeing or was it strictly boring business?”

“It was all boring business” Bucky quickly replies with annoyance in his tone.

“Hey, that's not fair. We saw whales out the window one day!!”

“You mean you saw whales. I was in a different meeting with Greg.”

“Oh that’s right… fucking Greg..” they both roll their eyes and take what ever annoyances they have against this Greg onto their next bite of ziti.

“I’m guessing we don’t like Greg?” You ask, trying to keep the conversation in a direction you can still participate in.

Bucky sips his wine nodding. You can’t help but watch his neck flex as he swallows the wine. “He’s the worst.” He says before taking another bite of ziti. Before he fully finishes his bite he brings the conversation back to the ziti. “This is truly incredible. Honestly. Thank you so much.”

Butterflies erupt in your gut. James Bucky Barnes is enjoying your original recipe in your childhood home. There’s no way this isn’t a dream. “You’re very welcome. There will be plenty of leftovers. Feel free to take as much as you’d like before you go.”

“Oh sweetheart I forgot to tell you. He’s gonna be staying here for a while. I told him there's no sense in getting a hotel when I have more than enough room here.”

Like father, like daughter. You had already basically moved back home two weeks ago. Staying in the apartment with Chad was just not an option. It was too painful.

“Oh…. Okay, I need to call Meghan after dinner then.”

Your dad puts his fork down. He knows you better than you realize. Immediately clocking something’s wrong.

“What did he do?”

Bucky looks at your dad confused. You’re playing with a ziti noodle on your plate when you hear Meghan in your ear again ‘meaning you’re in the same city at the same time you’re newly single.’ She’s so right. Thank you universe.

“Chad broke up with me.”

“What?! When?! Why?! Why didn’t you say anything?!”

Your dad trailing off a million questions, masking his anger because we have company.

“He’s set on moving to San Diego. And I won’t go with him.”

Before pops replies Bucky finishes his glass of wine and places it down quickly. “He’s a fool”

He’s a fool…?

“What a fucking loser… I’m sorry sweetheart. But I still don’t know why you need to call Meghan, does she not know yet?”

“No no… I told her the moment it happened. It was two weeks ago. I actually moved back here. I couldn’t stay in the apartment anymore….” You take a deep breath in, swallowing the pain that’s swelling up before you shed a tear. “But it’s okay. Bucky can have the spare room and I’ll go stay at Meghan’s.”

Bucky tries to chime in but Pops cuts him off.

“No no you can stay here. I still have that futon in the den. We can fix that room up nicely for you.”

“You sure?” The last thing you want to be is a burden but you’d be secretly thrilled to be sleeping across the hall from Bucky. God senior year you would be screaming right now.

“I’ll take the futon.” Bucky demands firmly.

“No way am I letting you sleep on a futon after everything you’ve done and sacrificed for this country. And all the.. things you’ve had to face. The cards you've been dealt. The last thing I’ll allow is you sleeping on a futon.”

You finally take a breath realizing what you’ve just done. Your cheeks blushing bright red you can feel it creep up your neck and to your ears. You finally look up at him and he’s already looking at you. Admiring you. Almost playfully like he knows something you don’t.

Before you let him rebuttal you explain yourself “Sorry. I just…. I know a lot about what you’ve gone through. I had a history report in high school. And you were the name I pulled…. Knowing everything you’ve gone through, I couldn’t let you have the shitty futon.”

Your dad smiling wide almost laughing “oh my goodness I forgot about that history project. I think we still have the ribbon you won from that! What a small world!”

No… dad… why did you even say anything…. Internally praying the earth just randomly swallows you whole right now.

“Like I said.. I will take the futon.” Bucky says firmly but attempting to hold onto his polite demeanor. “I appreciate what you’re trying to do. But I couldn’t sleep on a comfortable bed knowing there’s a very kind woman going through a breakup across the hall… sleeping…on a futon.”

I am so fucked.

“Well that settles it then.” My dad ends the conversation.

Bucky catches me staring at him. I give him a little smile before gathering the plates. “Who wants desert? I made strawberry short cake and got champagne too.”

“Champagne? What for?” Pops asks a little sarcastically.

“To celebrate duh!” You humor him.

“I think it’s a little late to celebrate that ribbon from your history project.” Bucky quietly pokes fun at you.

Oh he’s funny. Before I could shout back at him I heard my dad tell him “I knew you’d fit right in with her sass.”

You bring out the champagne and glasses while they complain about Greg some more. You place the bottle in front of Bucky. “Would our guest mind doing the honors?” You ask, grabbing the empty wine glasses from the table. Before you let him answer you walk back to the kitchen to get the strawberry shortcake. You can feel him watch you walk away for a moment too long.

Your phone is still buzzing in your pocket. Almost forgot about Meghan. 13 missed calls, 22 texts. Good lord. You quickly text her back. ‘Sorry. Long story short. Bucky Barnes is my dads new business partner. He’s staying with my dad. He MOANED eating my ziti.’ You see Bucky approaching again so you hit send and place your phone on the counter and give him your attention.

“I know you won’t let your dad help, but can I?” You could never deny him of anything he wants. You nod yes, “If you insist. These will be self-serve so just help me get everything out to the table?” Without a word he’s grabbing the dish of strawberries and angel food cake taking them to the table. You grab the plates with spoons and a can of whip cream following behind him.

He starts pouring the champagne as Pops and I get our dessert plated. Then I place everything for Bucky to plate his. Once he’s done he raises his glass, “We should toast.”

”We absolutely should, to new beginnings.” Pops starts.

”To new friends.” You add

”To baked ziti.” Bucky finishes causing me to giggle as we clink our glasses together.

We dig into the strawberry short cake. Bucky once again groaning in enjoyment. He’s so devastatingly hot. Your core pulsing as you realize you’ve made him moan and groan without even touching him.

“Now, how did you know this is my all time favorite desert?” Bucky asks as he wipes some whip cream on his finger and licks it off playfully.

Before I could finish my mouth full of strawberries, Pops chimed in. “Was probably in that history project.”

Bucky softly laughs and smiles. You roll your eyes at them both and continue eating. Pops was joking, but it was absolutely a fact you included… and shamelessly it became your favorite. Hence why you made it tonight, never could have guessed you’d be sharing it with the man himself.

We finish up the bottle of champagne. A nice buzz relaxing you for the first time since they walked through the door. They shared more stories and dived deeper into their hate for Greg. Their friendship is sweet. You can’t help but be so happy for them both.

“Well you two, I’m calling it a night. Will you help Bucky get set up in the room sweetheart?”

“Of course Pops.” He kisses the top of your head, “You’re gonna be okay. Glad to have you back home.” He whispers before heading to his room. You stand up gathering the plates and glasses.

”I just need to get some of my things out of that room and get sheets for the futon and it’s all yours.”

Bucky just nods, taking the dishes from you. “Let me do the dishes in the meantime, it’s the least I can do.”

Once again you can’t say no to him. You just nod and head to the spare room. Gather all your clothes and things you brought from your apartment that you had stored in this closet, since your closet is so small. You end up just tossing them into your room creating a mess that you’ll worry about later.

In the closet in the hall there’s extra sheets and blankets, pink and grey are your options. You chose pink, and your old care bear fluffy blanket in case he gets cold. You lick your lips and smile menacingly to yourself as you place the sheets and blankets on the futon. The thought of him wrapped up in pink care bear blankets is both adorable and hilarious to you. Then you realize there’s no pillow, you know your dad keeps extra in his room but you can already hear him snoring.

You go to your room and grab your second pillow, you’re suddenly stopped right outside your room to Bucky in the hall.

”Take one of my pillows for now, my dad has more in his room you can get from him tomorrow.” You hand him the pillow and he hands you your phone. His fingers linger on yours before pulling away.

“You liked that your cooking made me moan? I’ll remember that.” He whispers before stepping into the spare room closing the door behind him. Leaving you standing there turned on like never before.

2 Breakfast

You wake feeling well rested for the first time in months. Maybe it's the fact that you didn’t cry over your break up at all yesterday. Maybe it’s the fact that you had dinner with Bucky Barnes. Maybe it was the fact that he was sleeping in the room across the hall from you. Maybe it was his moans and whispers replaying in your head while you gave yourself the best orgasm you’ve ever had.

Whatever it was, you’re so happy to be alive this morning. You hear your dad and Bucky laughing in the kitchen, and thank goodness for that warning, because you can’t go out looking like this with him out there.

You put on some plaid cotton shorts, a pink bralette and a baggy white t-shirt. Comfy enough to just wake up in, but cute enough to feel confident in front of Bucky freakin Barnes. You quickly brush through your hair and put it back up in a messy but calculated bun.

Before you head out of your room your phone buzzes with a text from Meghan ‘How was your night?! I’m dying over here for updates.’ You roll your eyes, she’s so dramatic. But you can’t blame her. You quickly reply. ‘My last update to you… I’m almost positive Bucky saw it on my phone. Let’s just do lunch today? I’ll meet you downtown at 1:30?’ You don’t even wait for her reply. You leave your phone on your dresser and finally leave your room. Pops and Bucky are already talking shop, like they haven’t had enough of that for the last month. Setting up meetings and the next trip.

“Good morning sweetheart!” Pops finally notices you sneaking into the kitchen for coffee.

“Good morning boys. Don’t mind me, just need coffee.”

Bucky just staring at you, a curious smile sneaking up his lips. Clearly deep in thought. Wonder how his night went?

“You have any plans today? I was going to take Buck around, show him all the hot spots. Might even tour some houses. Would love for you to tag along”

“I’m having lunch with Meghan later. Are you thinking of moving to Sacramento?” You turn your attention to Bucky enjoying your first sip of coffee with a side of your first real look at him this morning. He’s in dark jeans, a teal Henley, sleeves rolled up to just before his elbows. Hair is perfectly messy, dare you say calculated. It’s genuinely unfair how good he looks.

“Was thinking about it. It’d be easier to travel from here for work. It’s pretty central to all our branches.” He pauses sipping his coffee before continuing… “And I like what it has to offer so far.”

What it has to offer. Does he mean me?!

“Well you tell Meghan I said hi okay? She should come over for dinner sometime soon. It’s been too long since I’ve seen her.” Pops interrupts as he flips through the newspaper.

“Sure thing pops. You boys hungry? Was gonna make an omelette if you wanted one.”

Pops shakes his head no, but Bucky perks up. “I might be interested, whatcha got for toppings?” He pokes his head up from his paper, quickly looking to Pops to see if he’s paying attention, but he’s already deep into an article. Causing Bucky’s glance back at you with a smirk as he sets his paper down.

Oh, it’s on old man.

“Let’s see…” You turn to open the fridge. Bending down just slightly looking through the toppings and starting to name them off. As insolently as possible. “I’ve got cheddar, bacon, spinach, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, provo-“ The word caught in your throat as Bucky suddenly stands behind you, his hand slowly sliding up your back with you still slightly bent over in front of him. You take a deep breath and finish your thought “Lone… provolone.” As you slowly stand and turn to face him, the cheese in your hand.

His eyes locked to yours, vibranium hand leaning on the cabinet behind you, causing him to tower over you. Trapping you between him and the fridge door.

”So what’ll it be?” You whisper, completely ignoring the fact that your father is 20 feet away sitting at the kitchen table.

He leans in even closer whispering in your ear, “whatever you think will make me moan again.” His warm breath tickles your neck and ear. He smells like coffee and musky cologne.

You stumble back into the open fridge. Damn your weak knees. He doesn’t even flinch, turning back and sitting back down at the table.

You clear your throat and grab ingredients for yours and Bucky's omelettes.

“How many eggs Bucky?” You ask, pretending to be completely un-phased by his advances as you start to crack eggs. You know he sees right through it.

“4 Please.” He answers without looking away from his paper. Totally casual. Sitting next to pops as if he wasn’t just flirting, teasing, patronizing his business partner’s daughter seconds ago.

You turn all your focus to his omelette. Determined to make it the greatest omelette of his life. Needing it to be exactly as he requested. Moan worthy.

After a few minutes you bring two omelettes to the table sitting across from Bucky. He puts his paper down to focus on the omelette. Pops finally done with his paper, watching you both.

“Damn those smell good.” Pops breaks the silence. You’re unphased. Trying to secretly watch Bucky take his first bite. Waiting for that moan you’re so desperately craving.

He cuts off an end and picks it up with his fork, you’re already a few bites in because you were starving. But you slow down to watch him. You watch the moment the secret ingredient hits his tongue. His nostrils flair, he chews slower causing his jaw to slightly tick. Eyes ever so slightly rolling back before closing. Then he groans with a mouth full ‘oh my god’.

Your breath quickens while pops laughs. “That good, huh?” He asks. Bucky nods his head dramatically as he finishes his bite.

”Holy fuck….” The way he moaned your name. Sitting right next to your father!!

Oh he’s bold.

You bite your lip before continuing to enjoy your omelette. Taking mental pictures and sound bites to save for when you’re alone later.

”It’s not that good” You tease him, partially being modest, partially setting him up to get a reaction. And a reaction you got.

He darts his eyes at you, staring a moment as he takes another bite. Another moan roars from in him, this time his eyes never leave yours. It’s the hottest thing you’ve ever seen. You’re so turned on you need a cold shower.

But you know he wants that. You know he wants you to be all flustered and riled up. But that would be too easy.

You turn your focus back to your omelette. Pretending to be completely unphased by his theatrics.

“I’m glad you liked it.” You finally break the silence as you finish yours and take your dishes to the sink.

”It was the best omelette I’ve ever had.” He confesses, genuinely.

Oh I know it was Buck.

“What was in it?… I got mushrooms and spinach but what was the 3rd thing?” He asks, truly curious. You smirk with pride with your back to him. Proud of yourself for stumping him, with an omelette.

”Sun dried tomatoes.” You confess as you head towards your room, to get ready for the day. Leaving him ashamed of his theatrics. Craving your reaction. Aching for more of your attention.

Exactly where you want him.

3 Bestie Debrief

“Girl… this is crazy!! He really said that??” Meghan pauses a moment to process what she’s about to say. “Whatever you think….” She pauses again and hushes her tone, “Will make me moan again…!!?!”

You laugh at her disbelief. “Girl I would not make this up. And I’ve been pinching myself for 12 hours trying to wake myself up but nothing happens.”

”You need to teach me your manifestations. Or exactly how you prayed for this. Or was it shooting stars?!” She places her elbows on the table and face in her palms mumbling ‘it’s not faaaaiiirrrrr’. Causing you to laugh even harder.

“I wouldn’t get so worked up, I think he’s just having fun messing with me.” You keep telling yourself that to keep your feelings in check. But you know yourself well enough to know, it’s not gonna work. You’ve had feelings for him long before he ever walked through the door. You’re already too far gone.

“Girl.. shut the fuck up….he clearly wants you….do us all a favor and give it to him.” She snaps back taking another bite of her sandwich, rolling her eyes in annoyance at me.

“I dunno girl. I’ve wanted him so bad for so long, but it just never seemed plausible.” You pause before you continue. Shocked, you're actually going to admit this. But Meghan is the only person you can trust with this. “What if I can’t handle it… emotionally.”

She finishes her bite, wipes her mouth, and then holds your hands with both of hers. “Listen to me. This morning…. You knew he wanted your reaction…. You knew he wanted to see you crumble…. But you held your ground….. you… didn’t give your biggest crush the satisfaction he wanted….. you left him wanting more!!!!” She grips your hands before continuing. “If anyone can handle this…. It’s you.”

You smile at her and she smiles back. She has a point. You don’t know where that confidence came from this morning but you’ve been on cloud nine with just pride in yourself. “And sounds like he’s moving here…. It could be more than just sexual tension… What did he say? He likes what Sacramento has to offer?… what does it have to offer that he’s seen so far?…. You!!”

Her reminder gives you butterflies but you have to keep these things in check “no I think he meant how neutral it is to all their branches.” She tisks at you shaking her head, “whatever you say…. But I think he likes you.” she starts eating her fries when suddenly she looks behind you, eyes wide, fries in her hands dropped and forgotten. “Oh my god they’re walking this way…”

“Is that my Meghan Bear?” Pops says as he approaches behind you, she stands and gives him a big hug. “Hi Mr. C!! It’s been too long” they let go of their hug “How many times do I have to remind you, it’s pops to you.” They laugh a beat and then, the moment she’s been waiting over 12 hours for.

“Meghan, this is my new business partner, Bucky Barnes. Bucky this is Meghan.” The stars in her eyes couldn’t be brighter.

He reaches his hand out to her and they shake hands. “So nice to meet you, congratulations on the merger.” She says keeping her tone under control.

“The pleasure is all mine, Meghan. And thank you.” He replies with softness in his tone. Your mind focused on the way he said ‘pleasure’.

Your dad breaking you out of the loop in your head “Hey there sweetheart! How’s that sandwich?” The reminder of your dads presence turns something in your stomach.

You shrug, between your looming heart break and the butterflies from Bucky, you don’t have much of an appetite. “It’s okay.”

Meghan watches Bucky, you don’t look up from your plate. But Bucky watches you intentionally. Studying your shift in mood from this morning. Concern traces his face before Pops shakes him out of it. “Well I’m dropping Bucky off at an open house and then I have a meeting. Will we see you both back at the house later?”

Before Meghan could eagerly say yes you say “maybe. We’ll see where the day takes us.”

Pops nods “Of course. Have fun girls.” He starts to walk away. With Bucky following behind.

“Meghan…..” he says your name, lingering in the last few letters. Like he was savoring how it tastes on his lips.

We sit in silence till they’re out of ear shot. Meghan bouncing and giggling in her seat. “I’m never washing this hand!” She says excitedly holding up the hand she used to shake Bucky’s hand.

You can’t help but laugh at her. “His hand is so soft right?” You feed into her excitement, realizing you haven’t given yourself a moment to fan girl about this.

“Yes!! And his grip. God he’s perfect….. and that metal arm…. Why did just a little peek at it make me so horny?!” You burst out laughing, almost spitting water all over her.

“You are such a freak.” Meghan shrugs at me, not disagreeing as the waitress comes by leaving the check. “Your bill has been paid, and someone left this note for you.”

You and Meghan look puzzled at each other. “If this is from Bucky I’m gonna scream” she says as I open the note.

‘Sorry your sandwich wasn’t as good as my omelette this morning.

-James (718)-xxx-xxxx’

I take out the note and admire his handwriting for a moment. Pressing my lips together trying to contain my emotions.

“It was him wasn’t it?” Without another word you carefully hand her the note. She quickly reads it and squeals. Causing the entire street to look at us..

She hands the note back to you and you keep it safe in your purse.

“Can you admit now that he’s not just messing with you?”

You want more than anything to say yes, but you force logic to the forefront of your mind.

“Here’s the facts. He’s my dads business partner and best friend. He’s clearly going to be around more. He just wants to get along, makes things easier.”

She nods as she gets up tucking her chair under the table as you do the same.

“Bitch he gave you his number… I know you’ve been out of the game for a bit, but in the dating world. That means something.”

You know she’s right. You get it. But seeing them together like that just now, shifted something in your mind. You start to walk down the street with her and link your arm in hers.

“Meghan. Once again, he’s my dad’s business partner and best friend. Let that sink in. It’d be like you dating Pops….Imagine how I would feel, because thats how Pops would feel.

She takes a breath and really thinks it over for a moment. “Honestly, I think the shock would wear off and he’d be happy for you. He just wants you to be cared for and loved.”

I stop pulling my arm from her, “Who said anything about love?! See it’s already gotten messy. Don’t put that shit in my head.” I start to walk away from her. She chases after me.

“Hey no wait!!” She gets beside me and stops. “You’re right, I’m sorry. I just saw the way he looked at you just now. He was genuinely concerned. I just don’t want your fear of hurting Pops to keep you from something amazing.”

I finally look up at her before she continues. “Pops will always forgive you. Just keep that in mind.”

“I will. But the facts are, if we do something and we don’t work out, what happens then? Is it worth the risk?”

We stop at a cross walk. She's clearly deep in thought at my question. “I think it’s too soon to worry about that. All things considered, my genuine advice, just take it one step at a time.”

We cross the street, she’s leading us to her favorite frozen yogurt spot. Where we always end up to eat our feelings.

“I say you text him. If he really is just trying to get along with you to ‘make things easier’ like you said… Get to know him, the real him, not just all the facts you have memorized. Be his friend too.”

I playfully shove her as we get to the froyo stand. “Fine. I’ll text him.”

She giggles and squeals as we walk in. “Can I come over for dinner tonight?”

You give her a side eye as you get your froyo, “Fine. But if you start anything. Or say anything out of line. Or egg things on so help me god…”

“I’ll behave. I promise” She places her hand under her chin as if to frame her face while looking up at her imaginary halo.

“You better. Now help me figure out what to text him.” She pays for your froyo and you sit at the table together.

“Oh that’s easy, just thank him for lunch.” She says it so casually and matter of fact. It’s such an obvious text to send. Man, you really have been out of the game for a long time.

You get out your phone, enter his number and text him. ‘Thanks for lunch, that was really kind of you.’ and hit send then throw your phone on the table like it’s a bomb.

Meghan smiles menacingly, enjoying her froyo. “Can we take a moment and appreciate… that you just texted…. Your long time crush.”

“Shut up, I'm trying to be cool.” You really were trying. Trying being the key word.

4 Wing Women:

You and Meghan get to the house to get dinner started. With the house to yourselves you get to gossip and strategize before the boys get back.

“Okay, since he hasn’t texted back he’s probably just busy, or distracted. Maybe shoot him another text to see if he’s eating here again? Just to ‘plan ahead’” Meghan suggests as she sits on the counter while you prep ingredients for her favorite, ‘marry me chicken’.

“I will not be double texting him, that’s insane."

Meghan lets out a dramatic sigh, gets up from where she sat and pours each of you a glass of wine,

“He better be coming, it's the only reason I’m here.”

“Rude!!” Before you could yell at her more, your phone dings. She grabs it before you can and reads the text squealing.

“Oh my god, if you don’t fuck this man, I will.”

“Shut up!! Give me that” You snatch the phone out of her hands to read the text from Bucky.

‘Anytime. Will you be gracing me with your presence and cooking this evening?’

You lick your lips smiling, thinking of what to say back. Without a second thought you reply.

‘You’d like that, wouldn’t you?’

Then hand the phone to show Meghan. “Giiiirrrrll That was brilliant!! Oh my god he’s typing.”

You both stare at the phone, not even blinking waiting for his response.

‘Very much.’

You both scream like you’re back in high school freaking out over the cute popular guy flipping his hair.

“Okay okay, we need to calm down. We need to chill.” You regain composure for the both of you. “I’m gonna say..”

‘Well I guess you’ll have to wait and see.’

“Dude where is this confidence coming from?”

“Meghan, I truly do not know! Something about him I just… I’m just feeding off him.”

She lets out a puff of a laugh, “Ha, and he…. Is feeeeeeding… off you.” She busts out laughing before continuing. “At this point your cook book should be ‘recipes to land you a 108 year old super soldier.’ ”

“Oh my god, you’re ridiculous."

Before she could snap back you both heard a key giggle in the front door, causing you both to freeze. The door opens and it’s silent. So it’s not Pops…? For safety purposes you call out.

“Heyyyy.”

Bucky then enters the kitchen with a wide smile, taking the breath from your lungs.

“Hi.” He replies calmly. Almost like he’s dropped a mask he’s been wearing for weeks. A soft admiring gleam in his eyes as he sees you in your element.

“I need to grab something from my car, be right back.” Meghans dashes past us, neither of us even acknowledge her.

“What’s on the menu tonight?”

You pause a moment, not wanting to tell him the actual name of this dish, the last thing you want is to give him any wrong ideas.

“It’s Meghan's favorite, it’s a chicken dish.”

He just nods, accepting that, “You enjoy cooking? Today downtown was the first time I saw you outside of this kitchen, and you didn’t seem happy about it.”

You softly laugh, he’s not wrong.

“I do, yeah. It’s a safe space, gets me out of my head. A creative outlet. That I’ve very much needed lately.”

“You’re very good at it, your passion seeps through every bite.”

Holy shit, breathe.

“Wow… thank you, that means a lot to me.”

He just nods and smiles sweetly. “Of course”

You put the chicken in the oven as Meghan comes back inside. “Oh just in time, broccoli or asparagus?” You ask Meghan but Bucky quickly gives his answer.

“Broccoli.”

Meghan winks at you with her back to Bucky. “Well that answers that.”

“Sorry..” Bucky sheepishly apologizes before continuing “Just sounded good.”

You wink at him, “A man that knows what he wants…. Refreshing.”

Meghan coughs and Bucky looks away smiling, you’re almost positive he’s hiding that he’s blushing.

“My friend, Sam, says I’m a foodie.. Whatever that means... I was just deprived of good food for… a really long time. So I love having good meals now.”

You nod, listening while you set the broccoli up to steam.

“You mean, Sam Wilson?”

“Meghan!!”

Bucky laughs, “Yeah Sam Wilson. You know him?” He shifts his focus to Meghan. You notice he looks at her differently than at you. Not bad, just more proper, polite, neutral. You can’t pinpoint it exactly. You take a mental note to ask her if she noticed later.

“God I wish!! He’s so fucking hot!”

“Meghan!!!”

Bucky laughs, “I’ll tell him you said that..” He playfully threatens.

“Please do, invite him over. Give him my number. Whatever you want. Is he single?”

“Oh my god Meghan!” You yell at her as you pour a glass of wine and hand it to Bucky. He takes it from you without a word. Just a lingered touch of your hands.

“Uhh last I knew, yes, but we typically don’t talk about that stuff.”

Meghan nods her head as you stand beside her and across the counter from Bucky.

“Why not? Isn’t he one of your best friends?” You ask innocently, just genuinely curious. Maybe subconsciously activating your inner wing man.

You and Meghan dating Bucky Barnes and Sam Wilson? What a flipping dream.

Bucky laughs before he takes another sip of his wine. “Yes, we are. But he’s really…. Invasive… Some would say a little, obnoxious about it.”

“Ha sounds familiar.” You huff bumping Meghan at the hip. She flashes that ‘I’m innocent smile.’

“Sounds like we’d be perfect together.” She winks at me before leaving the kitchen and sitting in the living room. With Bucky’s back to her she looks at me mouthing ‘Oh my god’ Really obnoxiously. You look away from her before you start laughing.

“Is there anything I can help with?” Bucky enters further into the kitchen standing closer to you now.

“Do you know how to cook?”

He hesitates, rubbing the back of his neck with his vibranium hand, “Uhh not really.” He lets out a little laugh.

“Would you want to learn?” You ask, more like an offer than a question.

“I would.” He says softly stepping closer, he goes to reach for you when the front door swings open.

“Looks like we have a full horse tonight!” Pops yells as he enters causing both you and Bucky to take big steps back.

“She offered to make me ‘marry me chicken’ so I couldn’t resist.” Meghan says to Pops you quickly look at Bucky to see if he heard that. His smile says he did.

“Marry me chicken?” He asks as he takes another sip of his wine.

“Don’t look at me, that’s what the internet named it.” You shrug him off as you check on the chicken. “About ten more minutes.” You put the chicken back and turn to Bucky.

“Would you set the table for me? Maybe another time we can have a cooking lesson?”

He finishes his wine. Licking the last drop off his maroon stained lips. Then winks at you and nods. “I’d like that.” Then gets plates and silverware out, without even being asked where everything is.

Dinner was a little more uneventful. Pops updated Bucky on everything he missed from the meeting. Bucky stealing quick glances of you every moment he could. You didn’t even see or notice them all. But Meghan did.

Meghan gets up and gathers the dishes as everyone finishes.

“Dessert anyone, I didn’t make anything fresh but there’s still plenty of strawberry shortcake left.” You announce, not meaning to but just focusing on Bucky.

“He looks at his watch and finishes his last sip of wine and gets up from the table. “I actually have somewhere to be. Thank you for yet another amazing meal. I’ll see you at the office in the morning, Rob.” He explains as he’s quickly out the door.

Pops nods, “You know I’ll never turn down dessert.”

You smile at him and go to the kitchen to plate that for everyone. You stand next to Meghan at the sink.

“Where the hell is he going at this hour?” She whispers to you.

“It’s only 8:30, it’s not that late.”

“It’s late for anything business or professional… Could it be a date?”

Your heart sinks into your stomach. She’s right. There’s no way it’s anything other than a date. Thoughts of him opening talking with a girl. Laughing with her. Not backing away from her when someone enters the room. The ache in your stomach gets bigger and bigger at the thought.

“I’m suddenly not feeling good, I’m going to bed.” You say rushing out of the kitchen, not waiting for either of their responses.

Meghan leaves dessert on the table for Pops. “I’ll check on her. I’ll be back.”

She enters your room while you’re pacing in what little space you have.

“Alright, out with it. What is it?”

“It’s a date isn’t it?”

She hesitates… “No, not necessarily. And even if it was, what's so wrong with that?”

You stop in your tracks. What's wrong with that? You quickly rack your brain trying to figure out what exactly is wrong with that.

“Because it’s not with you?” She questions, innocently.

You just nod, defeated. Embarrassed.

“Even if that’s what it is, and we don’t have any confirmation of that. I still wouldn’t sweat iit.”

“Why not?” You ask because you are absolutely ‘sweating it’ right now.

“Because he looks at you like you hang the moon and stars personally nightly.”

“Okay, I don’t think it’s like that..”

She tilts her head at you with her arms crossed over her chest. “Really? So you didn’t notice how professional he looked at me vs how he looked at you?”

You hesitate, giving her all the confirmation she needs.

“Yeah exactly. I love you but you’re being a little dramatic.”

“Did you notice, before Pops came in…?” You ask as you replay the moment in your head.

“No, what happened?”

“Well, technically nothing I suppose. But he stepped closer and was about to reach for me. But then we heard Pops voice and he stepped back.”

“Did you step back too?”

“Yeah…”

“Did you want to?”

“No. But I had to.”

“Come here.” She takes my hand and leads me to the side of my bed and sits us down. “Do you remember our conversation yesterday?”

“What about it?”

How you wanted to keep putting me in check? Well I’m doing that with you now. You don’t have dibs on the man. He can go on other dates. And I believe this with all my heart and soul. He wants more time with you. I can tell.”

You shift slightly, still visualizing him with another woman. He makes her laugh and she touches his arm. She literally shakes you out of the thought with a shove.

“Hey!! It’s going one of 2 ways. He’s either on a date and it’s the love of his life and you’re better off without him…. OR he comes back tonight looking forward to more time with you. And I think it’s the latter.”

“I guess only time will tell.”

“Exactlly. You want dessert in the meantime?”

“No, I'm genuinely so tired.”

“Okay well I’m gonna have dessert with Pops and head out. Text me in the morning.”

5 Late Night Walk:

You finally give up and try to get some sleep. But ended up just tossing and turning in bed for about an hour after Meghan left. Suddenly your phone goes off, with a text from Meghan. ‘Just wanted you to see this, but I still don’t think it’s something you need to worry about’ With a screenshot of a profile on Hinge, Bucky’s to be exact.

‘It could be a catfisher… at least that's what I'm telling myself.’ You respond before putting your phone away for the night.

The last thing your mind needed. This practically confirms it for you. And you know you don’t have a right to be jealous. But god you cant help it, because you know even if he wanted to ask you out, he can’t. Complicating his business and friendship with Pops, isn’t worth it.

You know this.

But damn it you’re still going to sulk about it.

Suddenly there’s a soft knock on your door. Worried something is wrong with Pops you bounce up out of bed to open the door.

To your surprise and slight resentment it’s Bucky. You check the time, it’s 10pm.

“It’s late, what do you need?” You ask in a snarky tone. Not even trying to be, it just escaped out of you without a say.

He straightens his posture and whispers, “Would you like to go on a walk?”

What?

“With you?”

He smiles at that, “Ideally, yes.”

“Right now?” You’re so confused right now, and the exhaustion is finally hitting you.

He licks his lips, “Please?”

And here we are, still can’t say no to him.

You grab a sweatshirt and put it on. Suddenly reminded you’re in pjs, and not the cute ones. And you can’t even think of what your hair looks like right now or you’d really want to disappear forever.

For a few minutes, you walk in silence. He’s walking on the side closest to the road, despite the quiet and absence of cars in the neighborhood at this hour. Still, the chivalrous act gives you butterflies that you want to fight off. But can’t.

“You alright?” He finally asks, genuinely curious. Maybe even a little concern in his tone.

“Yup, how was your evening?”

You can feel him turn to look at you but you don’t look at him. Just focus on the side walk ahead of you.

“Eventful. How was dessert?”

“I didn’t have any tonight.”

He hums at that, like he understands. But something tells me he doesn’t.

“Why’s that?”

I finally look at him and he’s impossible to read right now. He’s either enjoying this walk and this very, so far, cold conversation. Or he’s playing along with my mood.

“Wasn’t in the mood.”

He just nods, “I see.”

We keep walking in silence some more. The crisp cool air of the night is exactly what you needed. And looking over at him, street lights shining on his perfectly chiseled jaw line. For a moment you forget about your jealousy and resentment.

Finally curiosity gets the best of you and you snap. “How was your date?”

He stops. Freezing. A genuinely puzzled look on his face.

You stop a few steps ahead of him. “What? We can’t talk about that stuff?” You ask, very confused by his reaction.

“I wasn’t on a date.” He says very matter of fact, not moving from his stance.

“Don’t lie. You can tell me, we’re friends right?”

“We are friends. And I don’t lie to my friends.” He finally catches up to you and you both continue your walk.

“Then where did you go at 8:30 at night?”

He hesitates, you look up at him and he slightly smiles as he shakes his head.

“You’re jealous.”

“No! What? That's crazy. Just curious is all.”

He shakes his head, “You are. It’s okay, you don’t have to lie….. We’re friends.”

How is every response of his hot, even making fun of you?

“I’m not jealous.”

“Right… now that you know it wasn’t a date… nothing to be jealous of.”

You let out a little huff, “Then why won’t you tell me where you were?”

“If you must know… I had a meeting with my realtor.”

“That late?”

“8:30 is not late…”

“A little for a meeting with a realtor.”

“He’s a busy guy, and this was important to me.”

“Why’s that?”

“I requested a tour of a specific house.”

“Oh yeah? Find a good one?”

“I think so. It will need some renovations but the location is perfect.”

“Nice! Where is it?”

He stops, waits for you to stop too only two steps ahead of him. You look back at him and he points to the house you’re standing in front of.

You look at him confused. “...This one?”

“Mhmmm”

The butterflies erupt in your stomach. He’s potentially going to be a ten minute walk down the street. You admire the house. It has great character with red brick trimmings, great covered front patio and classic window shutters.

“It’s nice, I like it.”

“I think so too… we could be neighbors.”

You look down at your feet blushing, not even caring if he noticed or not.

“Yeah? Is that why you picked it?”

He hesitates a moment but then looks you in the eyes. “Partially.. it’s also well built, has good character and a great kitchen.”

That last bit surprises you. “A great kitchen huh? What does a handsome bachelor who can’t cook need a nice kitchen for?”

He softly laughs at that. “Well, I won’t be the ‘guy who can’t cook’ for long…. Thought you could teach me in my own kitchen.”

Is this man really about to buy a house to have cooking lessons alone with me?!

“Oh… true.”

He steps closer pulling out his phone, “do you want to see pictures?”

You step close and nod yes. He holds his phone up for you to see. You place your hand on his arm as he scrolls through the pictures. Not even realizing how naturally you fit together with such a small subtle touch.

The pictures he shows of what’s inside the house you’re in front of can only be described one way.

Your dream kitchen.

“Only thing is, this little wall here…” He points to the photo before continuing. “I’d have that torn down for a more open concept. That way anyone not in the kitchen can still interact with those cooking.”

This might be the sweetest and cutest thing you’ve ever heard and seen. Bucky fucking Barnes excited about owning a home, and planning to host company. Maybe even not living there alone. You’re overwhelmed with happiness for him.

“You think you’ll put in an offer when you tour it?”

He nods with no hesitation, “I was ready to place an offer tonight but my realtor wants to start with a tour.” He places his phone in his pocket. Staying close to you. So close you can smell his minty breath.

You both stare into each other's eyes for a moment. Neither of you want to step away. Enjoying the close proximity. No looming fear of someone seeing you this close.

He lifts his right hand and tucks loose strands of your hair off your face. His skin softly glides against yours. Taking your breath away momentarily.

“It’s getting late.” He whispers, his hand, now holding the side of your head. The comfort and warmth it provides is something you’re not willing to give up.

You just nod agreeing. In simple, a matter of fact that truthfully doesn’t matter to you.

His hand slides down from your face and slowly down your arm till he reaches your hand. Turning to stand beside you, tangling his fingers in yours.

“We should head back.” He says as he starts to lead you home.

You just follow his lead, squeezing his hand and following his steps.

The walk back to the house is silent in words, but the affections and glances say more than words ever could.

The spark between you two wasn’t made up in your head. You can feel it by just holding his hand. The sparkle in his eyes is so bright you can still see it in the dark moonlight.

You reach home and he stops in the driveway, not letting your hand go.

“Thank you for joining me, I know it’s late and spontaneous.”

“I needed it, thank you.”

He politely nods. “We should do this again sometime.”

“I’d love that.”

The moment you both step into the door you let go of each other's hands. Almost as if you have to leave the affection outside. But he still walks you to your bedroom door and wishes you a good night.

6 Growing Closer:

For the next week you and Bucky made a nightly routine to take walks together. After Pops goes to bed you both would leave one by one and walk the neighborhood together.

He tells stories about his time in Louisiana with Sam and his family. You tell stories of your childhood with Pops. He opened up about recovering from Hydra’s control and that every now and then he’s haunted by it. You were vulnerable about your break up with Chad, and how you never saw the red flags until you were out. And now trying not to regret not leaving him sooner.

He’d let you trace the gold lines of his vibranium arm, and he’d relish in how fearless you were with him. You’d ask him to do the arm flip reset, and he obliged happily. Especially since he noticed how you’d bite your lip every time.

He’d ask about your cookbook and admitted that your dad told him about it. He let you spend a whole hour going through the process so far and how excited you are for it to be finished and share it with the world.

One night you both spent the whole time comparing Sam and Meghan and realized they might actually be perfect for each other. But you begged him not to tell her yet.

The only consistency with every walk you shared, you held hands, he always walked on the road side and you always went to bed feeling better than you did when you woke up.

Conversations flowed easily. Laughs and compassion were well reciprocated. You looked forward to them every day. Some days even dragged on waiting for your alone time with Bucky.

But even during the day you kept in touch with each other. He’d text you and vent about Greg, you send him pictures of recipes gone wrong. You let him know you left leftovers for him in the fridge and he’d tell you how great it was. You’d tease that dinners are quieter without him there to…enjoy them. He admitted he couldn’t wait to hear you…enjoy… a meal he makes.

You were growing closer and closer by the day.

Now you’re going over things with Meghan, well not everything but most of it, at her house as you help her bake some sweets for her work bake sale.

“You know, you guys are basically dating now, right?”

You scuff at Meghan’s audacity.

”We absolutely are not. We are just going on walks and talking. Getting to know each other. Being friends. Just like you said I should do.” You pause, taking in a breath before continuing.

“Will you stop rushing it? I like where we are. I like what we have.”

She gives you a side eye, “But you want more.”

”Of course I do. But that doesn't mean I can’t enjoy where we are and our pace to potentially get there. Let’s not forget the elephant in the room…”

She stirs more cake batter in silence. You smile to yourself knowing you actually got her to shut up for once.

”I’m glad you guys make time for each other. You seem happier, got a little more pep in your step.”

”I’ve really enjoyed it. OH! Almost forgot to tell you…. He talked to me about Sam and his family.”

She drops what she’s doing on her counter and turns to face you, fully focused.

You laugh at her and then continue. “He sounds like a really good guy. Big family man. He cares about Bucky a lot. They’re really good friends.”

She shakes her hand, gesturing for me to continue. “Okay and when will he be texting me?’’

You scuff at her “I haven’t given him your number to give him yet… Is that all you care about?”

She turns back to the cake she was working on, “No… of course not.”

Before you could call her out your phone rings, you wipe your hands and see it’s Bucky. This is a first.

”Hey there!”

”Hi, do you have a second?” His soft raspy voice sends goosebumps down your spine.

“Of course what’s up?” You leave the kitchen before Meghan freaks out and gets in your business.

“I just wanted to tell you I won’t make it back to the house in time for dinner like I originally wanted, but I’ll be back around 9. Would you still want to go for a walk that late?”

Could he be any cuter?

“Of course, I really enjoy our walks, you know that.” You hear him let out a little laugh.

“I just wanted to make sure that it wouldn't be too late for you.”

You could squeal he’s being so sweet. Before you could respond he continued.

”I just have exciting news to share, but wanted to wait till our walk.”

”Oh!! That's exciting, now I’m counting the minutes.”

“Me too Bab- uhh um Yes. We'll circle back around to that. Of course.”

”….Did my Pops just walk in?”

“Yes, absolutely.”

“Bucky we’re you about to call me baby?”

He laughs in a fake corporate laugh “You got it.”

You bite your lip, this is fun.

“And now you have to pretend it’s a work related call and not his daughter on the other end?”

”Nailed it. Well listen, have to get going but get back to me with that whenever you can, yeah?”

”I’ll text you?”

”Yes, text would be great. Talk to you soon.”

“Bye baby…”

Meghan walked in right as you said that and hung up.

”BABY!?! WAS THAT HIM?” She’s screaming and jumping up and down around you causing you to burst out laughing with the widest smile on your face.

”You guys have pet names now!? Oh my god!!! You are saying ‘baby’ with James Bucky Barnes!!!!” She screams loud enough for her whole apartment building to hear. You can’t even stop her, overcome with laughter. Pure joy from it all.

You finally can breathe and explain yourself. “He almost let it slip but Pops walked into his office, interrupting him.”

Meghan’s jaw is on the floor. “The teeeeaaaaa. So you were messing with him?”

You just nod yes pressing your lips together.

”But also unironically calling him baby?”

You continue to nod with your lips pressed together fighting back a smile.

“Did he just call you to call you baby?”

”No, just making sure we were still good for tonight, even though he won’t be back till 9… He said he has big news.”

“Ooooh, what do you think it is?!”

“It’s either something to do with Greg… or his offer on the house was accepted.”

”Who’s Greg?!”

“Just this guy from work he and Pops hate, but honestly it’s probably the house…. I should bake cookies.”

”And what? Have a milk and cookies picnic at 9 o'clock at night with Bucky Barnes?”

You smile, getting all your ingredients back out. “Yeah duh. My dream date.”

7 Cookies and Milk :

By 8:45 you have your picnic packed with milk, cookies, a blanket and a little lamp. You know it’s not technically a date but the butterflies in your chest would disagree. It’s almost silly how excited you are, but you don’t care.

Just a few minutes later he walks in slowly and quietly. Looking around until he finds you in the kitchen. He’s in black slacks and a white dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up revealing his forearms. Neck tie long forgotten with the first 2 buttons undone.

You suddenly feel severely under dressed in your leggings and sweatshirt.

His eyes light up when he sees you and whispers “Hey.. I didn’t keep you waiting did I?”

“Not at all, I was just excited.”

He pauses looking at you with a gleam in his eyes. You can’t quite place. Almost like he wants to say something but is holding himself back. He finally sees the picnic bag you packed.

“What’s all this?”

You grab it off the counter. “It’s a surprise.”

He smiles at you but grabs the strap from your shoulder and takes it from you. “Let me carry it.”

You don’t stop his chivalry and follow after him outside. He waits for you to lock the door holding his hand out for you to take.

You let out a sigh just relieved that tonight is finally here, but he catches it.

“You alright?”

“Yeah, just happy.”

He squeezes your hand in response as we continue down the block. Your steps and the crickets are the only sounds. But the silence between you too isn’t awkward. It’s comfortable.

We get to his potential new house and he stops in the driveway.

“Can I know what’s in here now?”

You smile at him and reach in the bag for the blanket and start to drape it over the grass. He places the bag down and helps you and then sits with you on the blanket. Facing each other.

You then get the tupperware of cookies out and then two mugs and the cold milk.

He looks at you in awe. “Is this a milk and cookies picnic?”

You just nod, handing him a mug followed by a home made chocolate chip cookie.

“This is exactly what I needed after today.” He admits.

“Bad day?” You ask, dunking your cookie and taking a bite.

“No, not bad, just long. Meetings running long. People in and out of my office unannounced…. Never ending paper work.”

“I’m sorry.” He shakes his head at you, as if to say ‘how dare you apologize.’ Then dunks his cookie and takes a bite.

“MMMMy god…” He groans your name at the taste. That familiar sound you’ve missed so much sending chills through you.

You softly giggle. “That good?” You ask slightly doubtful. Feeling like he just wants to get a reaction out of you.

“Baby… these are heaven.” You freeze, mind hanging on the way he calls you baby..

“You said it..” You say shyly sipping your milk.

He winks at you finishing his cookie. “Yeah, that okay?”

You nod, “Honestly you can call me whatever you want.”

He laughs at that. You adore his laugh and fill with pride whenever you get it out of him.

You seal the cookies back up and focus back on him completely.

“Okay I am dying over here, what's the news?!”

He puts his mug down and stands up. Walking over to the for sale sign beside us. Takes off the ‘for sale’ part and flips it before putting it back. It now reads sold.

He stands beside it proudly, “They accepted my off-”

Before he could finish his sentence you get up and race over to him. Wrapping your arms around him for a firm hug. He instantly does the same, wrapping his arms around you. Keeping you close. Realizing as you're pressed against him, this is your first hug together.

His body is firm and strong but not too firm where he's uncomfortable to be pressed against.

“Congratulations!!” You mumble against his chest.

He squeezes you tighter for a moment then whispers, “What was that?”

You tilt your head up to look at him and whisper “Congratulations!! … How’s it feel to be a home owner?”

He traces his hands down your back, then rests them both on your lower back. Looking down at you. “Sureal honestly. I gave up on this dream long ago. So a little strange it actually happened.”

You smile up at him, couldn’t have happened to a more deserving man. And that man is sharing the excitement of the moment with little ole you.

“You worked so hard for this, no one is more deserving.”

He lifts his right hand to cup your face, vibranium hand still holding you close on your lower back.

He softly whispers, “Thanks baby” Then lets go but holds your hand. “Come on” He leads you up to the porch, admiring the view of the street.

You look at him and notice how deep in thought he is.

“What’s on your mind?”

He looks at you, hands still intertwined. “Just ready for my meetings with contractors in a few days. Going to take down that wall I told you about. Expand the master bedroom closet and bathroom. Will have to lose a whole bedroom for that but it’s fine.”

“That’s exciting! I can’t wait to see it.”

“I’m excited for you to see it too. I should get the keys in two days. I’d love to give you a tour.”

You step closer to him, both facing the street again. Standing so close your arms lightly touch.

“I’d love a tour. Have you told Pops yet?”

He hesitates a moment, you can’t read why but you brush it off to not ruin the moment.

“No.. not yet. Wanted you to be the first to know.”

Your heart skips a beat at that. But you don’t draw attention to that.

“What else do you have planned, furniture, color schemes, anything like that?”

He shakes his head, taking his hand back then turning around. Leaning on the railing as he faces the house now. Arms crossed over his chest. Even in the dark of the night you can still see the veins in his flesh arm and the gold in the vibranium arm shine. Your breath quickens at how insanely hot he looks but try to focus on his answer.

“I am completely lost on all of that. So out of my element and comfort zone.”

“If you’d like help… I’d be happy to. I’m no interior designer but I could maybe help point you in the right direction.” You now lean on the railing next to him, also facing the house.

A cold breeze whips through the patio, causing you to shiver. He wraps his arm around your shoulder and pulls you in closer to keep you warm.

“Yeah? I was afraid to ask because I feel like it’s a lot of work to of ask someone.”

“Nonsense Buck. I’d love it.”

You can't see it but he smiles wide as you rest your head on his shoulder, he strokes his fingers over your hair and kisses the top of your head.

Your heart is pounding like crazy at how affectionate he’s being. It’s almost like he’s finally relaxed. You can feel the walls you’ve both been keeping up crash down

You know in the morning you’ll probably care. But that’s future yous problem.

“Good. Are you free tomorrow? I canceled on the work fishing trip to start furniture shopping. Would you like to join me?”

“I’d be happy to go but I don’t really know what we’re working with..” You stand up straight again and start to walk across the patio. Admiring the house more.

He just watches you, admiring you.

You finally notice and get shy, “What?!”

He smiles widely, “You look good here.”

You walk back over to him and take his hand, “Where, on a dark patio?”

”On the dark patio of my place… it suits you.” You look down at your feet blushing.

He pulls you in closer by your hand, standing you between his legs as he leans on the railing. His vibranium hand tilts your chin up to look at him. He whispers your name, like a confession as he leans in slowly.

Slow enough to give you the chance to stop him. Slow enough for you to know what’s happening and the chance to back out.

Instead you move in slowly too. Until your lips meet. The world around you frozen in time as you kiss. His lips firmly pressed to yours. You grip the fabric of his shirt to pull yourself even closer to him.

Your subconscious screams to stop this, that this was a mistake. But if it was a mistake, why does it feel so perfect?

He glides his hand to the back of your head tangling his fingers in your hair as he breaks the kiss and rests his forehead on yours.

You both take the moment to catch your breath. The world continues to turn again as you do.

”We have a busy day tomorrow, we should head back.”

You’re not ready for the night to end.

”Can we finish the cookies I brought before we head back?”

He looks at you sweetly.

“You drive a hard bargain.”

You lead him back to the blanket and you both finish the last few cookies. While giving him your ideas for colors, furniture etc. He just agrees to everything you’re saying. Because after tonight, he’d follow you to the ends of the earth,even as you ramble about paint colors.

8 Antiquing:

You got an early start in the morning. Pops was already on his way out when you got up to get your first cup of coffee. He shared the news of Bucky being our neighbor soon. You weren’t sure if you should tell him you knew already or not. So you acted surprised, but didn’t have to act excited. You sent him off with coffee to-go and wished him a good day.

You weren’t sure when Bucky wanted to get started on the day, but since it was just you up so far, you got out your laptop and came up with a plan for the day. Hitting all the best antique shops and Lowe’s for paint samples. Getting it all mapped out for the best efficiency. Right as you finish that up you hear Bucky’s room door open. You finish your first mug of coffee as he turns the corner to see you. No shirt, grey sweat pants hanging on his hips for dear life, hair messy. You try not to stare but god you can’t help it.

It takes him a moment to spot you and when he does, he’s horrified.

“Oh gosh, good morning… didn’t expect you to be up this early.”

“I’ve been up for a few hours, coffee?” You walk over to the coffee pot to pour your second mug as he nods.

“Well I’m sorry to keep you waiting, last night was the best night sleep I’ve gotten in gosh, probably years.”

Hmmm… I wonder why?

“I had the opposite problem” You admit handing him his coffee.

He takes a sip and looks at you concerned. “You feeling alright?”

“Oh never been better, I think that’s the issue.”

He’s clearly confused now waiting for you to explain.

You sigh annoyed with yourself that you’re actually going to admit this. “Have you ever heard of being too excited to sleep?”

He shakes his head no, “No I can’t say I have. Is that a thing?”

You sheepishly nod your head yes, “Yeah it is. But it’s not a bad thing.”

He wink at you, “Well, I shouldn’t keep you waiting any longer for this…exciting… day.” He says with a little sarcasm in his tone.

Then he looks around, as if to check if the coast is clear.

“He left about an hour ago.” You explain, being able to read his mind as you get out ingredients for French toast.

You don’t see it but he smirks as he walks over to you. With your back to him he gently grabs your hips with both hands and then wraps his arms around your front. Then rests his chin on your shoulder.

“Whatcha making?” He asks playfully, avoiding the elephant in the room of his sudden affections making you weak at the knees.

“My favorite breakfast. Would you like to help?” You turn your body to face him. His hands rest on the small of your back. Your hands on his chest, fighting for your life to not explore his body more. Looking into his eyes. They sparkle much brighter in the daylight.

He takes a deep breath in and exhales as he softly kisses your forehead.

“I’d love to. But I don’t promise to be much help.”

You smirk at him playfully, “I’ll make it easy for you… wash your hands.”

He bites his lip and whispers “Yes chef.” Then washes his hands.

You set up baking sheets for him to place out the bacon. And explain it to him while you mix the French toast batter and warm the pan.

You admire how delicately he places the bacon on the baking dish. Calculating the perfect distance between each slice.

You walk him through placing them in the oven and the timer. Then he watches you start with the French toast. Explaining the process and what we’re looking for before we flip.

You finally look at him and he’s clearly lost in his thoughts just admiring you.

“Are you even listening?”

He looks down and laughs to himself, “I’m sorry, I got distracted.”

”By what?”

He steps closer to you, tucking your hair behind your ear and whispers, “How beautiful you are.”

“Bucky..” you whisper, like a secret plea he’ll know how to handle.

He cups your face with his vibranium hand. So delicate and gently, not out of fear of hurting you. But knowing how precious you are.

He’s clearly deep in thought, almost like he’s arguing with himself before he kisses your head and backs away to grab his coffee.

You finish up the French toast right as the bacon timer goes off.

“I got it!” He says as he grabs the sheet out of the oven with his vibranium hand, no oven mit.

Why was that, literally, so hot!?

You both move together effortlessly in the kitchen, plating breakfast, refilling each others coffee and bringing everything to the table.

He sat on the end and you sat on the side beside him. Suddenly he grabs your chair by the leg and pulls you closer, then drags your plate and coffee over to you too.

You look at I’m confused, before you could ask he explains.

“Wanted you closer to me.”

You let out a deep breath and melt a little before taking your first bite of French toast and moan at the taste. Followed by a little happy dance.

He smiles at you as he starts his breakfast, “Oh yeah?”

You just nod to him as you continue to eat.

“Note to self, make French toast for you as much as possible.” He winks at you. You playfully shove his side.

“Have to pay attention to my lessons first.”

“Stop being so distractingly beautiful and I will.”

Your cheeks instantly flush pink as you look down avoiding his looks. You're not sure you’ll ever get used to him saying that. Not that you’d ever want to.

“So I looked it up and there’s an… Ashleys furniture…? About 40 minutes away.”

You finish your last bite of French toast shaking your head no at him waving your finger to point at the paper on the counter. He grabs it and starts reading it.

“I looked up a few antique shops earlier. They will have better options for you than a place like Ashley’s. And then we can end at Lowe’s and get paint samples.”

He reads through your list then up at you in awe.

“I’d be lost without you.”

You wink at him, “I know.” Then you gather the dishes and take them to the sinks.

“As much as I hate to say this… you should get dressed and we should get started.”

“Oh yeah? And why do you hate to say that?” He brings the two coffee mugs over to the sink beside you.

“Don’t play dumb Barnes.”

He winks before getting up and headed to his room.

You take out your phone to text Meghan, ‘I think I’m past the point of no return…’ But you don’t think so, you know you are. It’s only been an hour together so far today and you’re way too invested. Not even knowing what he wants out of this or if its even anything to him. Your heart tells you it doesn’t matter, but your mind is telling you, ‘you’re going to regret this’.

Meghan responds ‘Girl…. I could have told you that…’ Before you give yourself the chance to dwell on it, Bucky comes back out in a black t-shirt that’s probably a size too small and dark grey jeans. Hair brushed through and tucked behind his ears.

”Ready?” He asks, reaching for your hand.

You take a mental picture in your head of this moment. Knowing you are simultaneously so ready and severely not ready.

———————————————————————————————————

We made it to the first shop pretty quickly. It is overflowing with furniture, but that’s always where treasures like to hide at places like this.

Watching Bucky find things that are from his childhood or little things that bring memories back has been so sweet.

You’ve already bought a few trinkets when he wasn’t looking to surprise him with once his house is move in ready.

You follow Bucky around to an area of dining tables and chairs. Watching him inspect them and look over the details with such grace and care, is low key kinda hot.

He looks back at you and catches you biting your lip.

”Come here.” He beckoned me over with a playful gleam in his eye. You walk over to him beside a dark wood dining table. Probably seats about 4.

“Yes?”

“Stand right… here.” He guides you to stand between him and the table.

“Okay…” You’re very confused, until he glides his hands to your hips, and presses himself into you. And then guides you to slightly bend over.

“Bucky!!” You whisper for him to be careful, and he doesn’t listen.

“Shhhh, we just need to test something.. reach up and place your hands on the table.” He demands with a low raspy tone that makes you do as told.

“We need to test the stability of this one.” As he punctuates his sentence he starts to grind into you. Starting out slow and gradually picking up his pace.

”Buckyyy!” You softly wine to him, not wanting to get caught but also not wanting to get too tuned on. But it’s already far too late for that.

The table starts to creek in tempo with his grinds but otherwise very sturdy. He lets out a little chuckle and comes to a stop. Gently pulling you up and turning you to face him.

“Just wanted to test it, thanks for your help.”

If he wasn’t holding you by the small of your back you probably would have passed out. We winked at you before walking to the front to let the employee know he’d like to purchase it.

”We also have the 4 matching chairs in the back. Would you like to see them too?” You hear the store clerk say. It gives you an idea so you quickly follow after them.

“I’ll give you two a few to look them over” The store clerk explains leaving you and Bucky alone in this tiny back room to inspect them.

Bucky admires the detailed wood work carefully.

“Test it out Buck, have a seat.” You insist innocently. So innocent he doesn’t see what’s coming.

Once he sits in the chair, you climb in his lap facing him. His hands on your hips watching you in awe and whispers “Whatcha doing baby?”

Before you answer him, you hold his head in both your hands and start to grind on him, starting off slow until you start to bounce at a very suggestive tempo.

You lean into him so your lips are pressed on his ear and whisper, “Gotta test the chairs too…. They’ll get the job done.”

Then before he could remember how to speak you’re off his lap. Your warmth leaving his lap causes him to softly wine.

You head out to the store clerk “We’ll take the chairs too.” Leaving Bucky breathless and amazed at how easily you keep up with him.

9 Butter Yellow:

The rest of furniture shopping went that way, but just slightly more PG rated. Playful flirting, shared laughter and silent glances that say what you can’t with words. It’s starting to feel like he’s yours, even though he’s not. And you’re starting to forget that he can’t be.

He was able to find all the basics he needed, living room pieces, bed frame, side tables and 2 book cases. All scheduled to be delivered in 2 weeks.

We’re now back home drowning in paint samples. We got so invested in debating colors you lost track of time to make anything so for the first time in months, you ordered pizza.

He only made 3 comments about how it’s ‘not brooklyn pizza but it’s good enough.’

Pops gets home right in the middle of our heated argument over butter yellow.

“Bucky… butter yellow has no place in the kitchen.”

“But… it’s butter… you cook everything with butter!”

“Are you really going to sit there and tell me what’s required in cooking?”

“Well hello what do we have going on here?” Pops interrupts you as he enters the dining room. You freeze, feeling like you got caught. Though technically you weren’t doing anything wrong. It still felt like it. You start to strutter, unable to find words.

“I brought back some paint samples and I thought she’d help me pick the best options. But she’s really just telling me how poor my taste is.”

You try to hide your blushing cheeks by looking down and laughing before fighting back.

“Sorry for not wanting you to live in an ugly house!”

“Oh so it’s ugly now?”

“It will be if you go with butter yellow!”

Pops laughs, “You two sound like siblings.” He walks into the kitchen. You and Bucky share a look, both clearly displeased with being compared to as siblings.

“Bucky… in my experience it’s best just to agree with her. Especially when it comes to anything in the kitchen.” Pops tells Bucky from the kitchen.

Bucky glares at you a little annoyed and you just innocently smile back.

“Thank you Pops! And on that note I say, this moonbeam blue is perfect for the kitchen.”

“Okay okay…. What if I compromise and go green?”

“Green!!??!”

You don’t see it but pops is watching from just outside the kitchen. Just carefully paying attention.

“Yes green!!! What if it was a dark green like this one” He places an emerald green in front of you.

“This just so happens to be my favorite color. But that doesn’t mean I’d put it on the walls of my kitchen!!!” You push it back over to him across the table.

Bucky just looks at you deep in thought wanting to fight back and wanting to do something more but holding back for obvious reasons.

“Your cabinets here are painted. What if I painted mine green”

You freeze trying to control your face. That’s actually brilliant but why would you give him the satisfaction of a good idea? “But what color for the walls?”

He leans back in his seat, all smug. “Leave them as is.”

Damn it.

“I think you got her Bucky” Pops says from where he’s been watching this whole thing, while he’s eating a slice of pizza.

You look over to Pops, genuinely forgot he was there.

“Whose side are you on?” You playfully ask him. He puts his hands up to surrender.

“Sorry. I’ll shut up.” He turns and walks back to the kitchen.

“I say you test one cabinet. Just paint one emerald green. And one moonbeam blue and see what speaks to you.”

“Not the walls?”

You shake your head no, “painting the cabinets won’t affect the looks of food like the walls would.” You take in a deep breath annoyed to admit this “so that’s a good idea…”

He loudly claps, proud of himself. “You hear that Rob?!” He gets up taking our plates to the kitchen.

“Don’t get used to it.” Pops warns him.

“As much fun as it is with you two conspiring against me…. I’m going to bed.” You announce as you get up, and gather your laptop.

Bucky quickly looks back at you. “Wait… do either of you have anything going on tomorrow?”

“Nothing for me.” Pops respond curiously.

“Just formatting my cookbook. Why?”

“I get the keys to the house tomorrow. I was wondering if you guys wanted to see it before renovations start?”

“Oh yeah!? I’m in!.” Pops says excitedly.

You pause a moment just watching Bucky share in the excitement with his best friend. Guilt sinking into your gut but you brush it off quickly.

“What time?” You ask, trying not to be too eager but also not disappointed that it’s not a private tour.

“Anytime after 10. What works for you?” Bucky asks, concern written all over his face.

“Afternoon, maybe 1ish?”

“Good for you?” Bucky turns to Pops to make sure he’s still included. He responds with a thumbs up.

“See ya boys then.” You say as you walk towards your room.

“Good night sweetheart.”

“Good night…” Bucky says your name as if he’s missed saying it. You freeze at your door a moment to savor it.

As you start to get ready for bed, you hear Pops start to talk to Bucky about the renovations. Their strong voices carry through the thin walls so you can’t help but really listen when the subject changes.

“And how are things with the mystery girl of yours, you wouldn’t want her input in paint color choices?”

Your heart sinks. So he was using Hinge and actively talking to other women on there?

You hear Bucky nervously laugh, “No no, it’s still so new, and we can’t get our schedules lined up…. We haven’t even gone on a date yet.”

Hearing that is somehow a relief and a gut punch at the same time. He hasn’t gone on a date with this woman, but he clearly wants to.

You wonder if she knows about you for a moment then realize… no one can know about you. You’re the other woman. The secret. The dirty little secret. A fantasy.

You immediately stop listening and go to text Meghan about it. But your hands are too shaky and your mind is running too fast to form a proper sentence.

This has to end here and now. Hurt and disappointed you crawl into bed and put on something to watch to distract, but it doesn’t work.

—------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“I’m really happy for you. Finding something after everything. It’s inspiring.” Pops says to Bucky.

“Yeah? You know, if it’s not too late for the 109 year old, it’s not too late for you.”

Rob laughs, “Yeah I suppose so, but I have a daughter and I’m not handsome like you.”

“Rob.. your daughter is a grown woman, you can’t use that excuse anymore. And it’s not about looks.”

Rob brushes him off. “Maybe one day but not today…. Ya know I’d love to meet this girl.”

Bucky scoffs, “Yeah and I’d love to take her on a proper date.” And that gets Rob to laugh.

“Well, for what it's worth, this is the happiest I think I’ve ever seen you. WIth all the stresses and pressure from work lately, it’s nice to finally see you enjoy yourself.”

“Thanks man. I appreciate that, I am happy. Happier than I thought I’d be, settling down here.”

Rob pats Bucky’s shoulder, “On that note I’m calling it a night too..” They politely nod to each other as Bucky stays at the table till Rob enters his bedroom.

He pulls out his phone and texts you ‘Would you like to go on a walk?’

You hate that you read it, and hate it even more that you‘re responding to him this quickly but anger got the better of you. ‘Why don’t you go on a walk with your mystery girl?’

Next thing you know there's a soft knock at your door. He’s a smart man, keeping this fight inside, down the hall from Pops sleeping so it doesn’t get heated or loud.

You open the door and he sneaks in gently pushing you aside and closing the door behind him slowly. His right hand gripping your arm, firm to keep you there but gentle not to hurt you.

With slight anger in his tone he whispers “Are you out of your head? Who could the mystery girl possibly be in your eyes huh?!...... That day I called you at work, and before you hung up… you said ‘bye baby.’ God the way your voice melted and you played it so innocently. I was a putty in your hands… reacting to it right in front of Rob.”

He backs you against your door, hand just gently placed over you, no grip but still protective as he continues.

“He’s not stupid… He noticed immediately. He asked who had me smiling like that, clearly not work related…. What was I supposed to say…?” He said your name pleading for an answer that he knew you didn't have.

“I had to lie to him. I couldn’t tell him that my every waking thought is of you. All my future goals and dreams, you’re there. I couldn’t admit that every impure thought that's crossed my mind for the past month has been about you… Yeah a month…”

He brings his hand up to cup your face gently, vibranium hand on your hip rubbing your skin with his thumb that's peeking out from your shirt.

“From the first moment he told me about you and showed me your picture…. I’ve been captivated… God… and then we get back and you’re single…. I didn’t want to rush you. I didn’t want to overstep… But then you looked at me that night. You gave me silent permission with those beautiful eyes of yours…. And that’s all it took.”

He finally takes a breath, letting his lungs catch up a moment, your eyes locked on each other. Your mind frantically searches for words. And all you could come up with was a question.

“All it took for what?”

He looks at you just a moment, savoring the relief in your eyes before whispering again. “To be all yours.”

Before he can continue you lunge forward pressing your lips to his. He tastes like beer and revival.

He glides his hand to grip the back of your head. Trying to pull you in even closer. Nose pressing firm on your cheek, warm breath dancing over your skin. You let out a soft little moan that shivers from within him, that snaps you back into the present moment and the bigger picture. You push him away and he pulls back, pressing his forehead to yours.

“You okay baby?” He whispers breathlessly. Concern in his tone. Hand still cupping your face gently.

“Yes…but…. we can’t… at least not like this…. Not tonight.” He nods agreeing with you. Planting one more kiss to your forehead. Holding his lips there a moment to savor you a moment longer. Not fully knowing when his lips will be on you again.

In a soft threatening tone he whispers against your ear, “Don’t you ever doubt how important you are to me again.” Then softly kisses your ear. “Get some sleep.” He says before quietly leaving your room and slips into his quietly.

10 House Tour:

You ended up sleeping in, your body was not willing to give up your restful night of sleep apparently. But the smell of pancakes would be the only thing to get you up to start the day. You put a sweatshirt on and check the time, 10:30. Doesn’t give you much time to work on your cookbook before Bucky’s house tour but that’s fine.

You slowly stumble out of your room, “There’s sleeping beauty! You sleep okay?” A very excited Pops perks up, happy to see you.

You half wave to him with a grunt and you shuffle over to coffee.

”I’ll take that as a no, well I just made pancakes, If you wanted some there’s plenty.”

You start plating some for yourself before he finishes his sentence and bring them and your coffee over to sit with him.

”You feeling okay? You typically don’t sleep in like that.”

You nod with a mouth full of pancakes.

”What’s been going on with you? We haven’t had a chance to just sit and talk since I got back.”

You let out a little breath, it’s true. And you feel bad but you’ve been very distracted on top of a terrible liar. So you have been avoiding this.

“Yeah, things got a little busy for me. Just ready to have this book done.”

”You’re not burning yourself out to distract are you? I know how you get.”

Damn he really knows you.

“I promise Pops, I have a healthy amount of distractions. It’s how I heal and move on.”

“Speaking of moving on..”

You give him an intense side eye glare followed by a firm “Don’t”

Oh come on sweetheart. I know it hasn’t been long, but I don’t want you to hermit crab and avoid it for years again.”

He has a good point, Chad was only your third relationship. One from high school, avoided dating till sophomore year of college. Then when that relationship ended, avoided it again till a year after graduation. If only you could tell him that pattern is shattered like glass across the ground this time.

“It hasn’t even been a month Pops… I’m not in a rush.. Besides, I just want to focus on what’s in front of me for now.”

You let out a little sigh, relieved you didn’t have to lie to him about that. It’s all true, he just doesn’t know exactly what you’re focusing on.

“Bucky is even seeing someone…” You almost choke on your coffee.. “took me by complete surprise when I caught him on the phone with her.”

“Oh yeah? Why are you surprised?”

Why are you entertaining this conversation? You know this is dangerous territory. But you couldn’t stop yourself.

“I guess with how busy he is. Merging his company with another, moving to a new city, buying a house… to add meeting someone new and starting something seems so overwhelming to me.”

“Maybe she's just that special.”

Will. You. Shut. Up.!?

He shakes his head laughing as you continue to eat your pancakes.

“Yeah maybe. He seems happy so I’m happy for him. Just impressed I suppose.”

“That could be you, now that the merger is behind you… you could open up your calendar to put yourself out there.”

He shakes his head, “I don’t think so sweetheart… not now.”

You roll your eyes but he doesn’t catch it.

“Whatever pops.” You’re annoyed that he won’t even entertain the idea of meeting someone and settling down again. You get that it might be hard after what mom did to him. But you know he has a love left to give someone.

“I’m gonna go do some work in the yard, holler at me when Bucky gets back? I’m excited to see inside his house.”

You nod as you finish your pancakes.

You go get dressed for the day, denim shorts, floral blouse and a French braid. For the first time in a long time you had someone in mind when picking your outfit. And damn you’d be lying if you said you didn’t like that.

You get a decent amount of work done on your cookbook, formatting the pages to perfection. The only thing missing is photos that Meghan is helping with soon. You were so focused you didn't pay attention to the time till you heard the front door followed by Bucky’s excited voice.

“Guess what everybody…!!?”

”What?!”

He jumps up around the corner to see you at the table as he jingles his new house keys up.

”Oooooooh someone’s officially a homeowner.”

He smiles walking over to you, before he gets too brave you pull out your phone to call pops.

”Hey I’m hollering.. okay see you in a second.”

Bucky nods and winks at you.

“So, how does it feel?” You ask him as you wait for Pops to come inside and close up your laptop.

He jingles his keys with pride. “Surprisingly better than I expected. Ready to get everything done and moved in”

”There he is!! Official home owner!… Now when do you move out?” Pop barges in trying to be funny, you catch it immediately, Bucky does not.

”I uuhh whenever you-“

”I’m kidding.. So we going to see it or what?”

”Let’s go!”

You all walk out the door, following Bucky. He waits for you in the center of the driveway, like he always does, you both wait for Pops to follow behind you.

You want so badly to reach for his hand, look over at him, tease him about the pencil behind his ear and shamelessly flirt with him about his shirt being a size too small. But you can’t. Not with the audience.

What you don’t see is Pops paying attention to how easily you both walk together, how you’ve matched each other's steps despite your height difference.

But what really confuses him, is how you turn into Bucky’s driveway before he could say.

“Here she is!!”

“Wow Buck, it’s beautiful!! Love the brick!” Pops admires the house, you head right up to the poach dying to see this kitchen in person.

Bucky stays back standing with Pops. “Thanks man, appreciate that.” He taps his shoulder and leads him up to the porch with me.

“Excited sweetheart?” Pops asks sarcastically.

“You know me, excited to see a new kitchen.”

Bucky opens the door, winks at you and lets you both in. You’re in awe at the amount of natural light, even a sky light. Without a second guess you find your way to the kitchen and it’s even better than the pictures. Giant island in the center with a sink, and another sink under the window that looks out to the back yard.

Beautiful quartz countertops, that you immediately know would look amazing with emerald green cabinets.

“And what do you think?” Pops asks, but Bucky can already see you have fallen in love as he admires you in awe over everything.

“This is the most beautiful kitchen I’ve ever seen!”

“Hey I resent that, I paid a lot of money for you to redo my kitchen to your liking.”

“I know… and now I have new kitchen goals.”

“I’m glad you like it.” Bucky says softly, while he admires you. You finally look up at him to catch him staring. The smallest smile sneaking up his lips before Pops shouts at him from down the hall about the bedrooms.

Bucky winks at you before chasing after Pops as he goes over the changes he plans on making. You just stay in the kitchen, making imaginary plans in your head.

Bucky interrupts you while you cook. You both sneaking in for a late night snack. Slow dancing while dinners in the oven. Him sitting you on the counter and feeding you blueberries. Your mind starts to wander further until Pops breaks you out of your impure thoughts.

“You alright sweetheart?”

“Oh, um yeah! I’m good. Just really love this island.”

He lets out a laugh, “I can tell, well I’m headed back to the house, I have some errands to run.”

Before he can drag you with him Bucky interrupts, “Did you want to see the rest of the house?”

“Oh!! Yeah of course.” You laugh nervously, grateful Bucky found a way for you both to have a moment alone.

“Okay, well I’ll leave ya’ll to it. Great choice again Bucky. Welcome to the neighborhood. Will we see you for Sunday dinner tonight?”

“Thanks, am I invited?”

Pops laughs, trying to not be offended. “Of course you are, you’re family now. What a stupid question.”

“Then I’ll be there.”

We both freeze as we watch Pops disappear and then listen for the door to close behind him.

“Finally” Bucky whispers so soft you barely heard him, he practically sprints over to you and scoops you up with his hands on your ass. Pressing you against the wall and kisses you deeply.

You wrap your legs around his hips and hold his head in your hands kissing him back. Deepening the kiss into an intense make out. The world around you both long forgotten.

He groans into you causing you to moan back. That awakening something almost feral in him as he releases your lips and kisses down your jaw and neck with calculated precision.

“Bucky…. Wait…” you softly whisper breathlessly. Without pulling away or taking his lips off you he asks, “Yes baby?”

“Can we… can we pause…. and you show me the rest of the house?”

He tilts his head up and raises his brows at you, “Just pause, not stop?”

You smile at that and nod your head yes. “Just a pause, I’m not done with you yet.” You run your fingers through his hair as he slowly sets you down and takes your hand.

He leads you through the rest of the house and explains what he’s hoping to do. Will just need the contractors approval today.

Watching how excited he gets about all the plans and having a home that’s completely his. Watching him build his safe space almost from scratch melts your heart in the best way.

You can’t help but be extremely happy for him.

“So whatcha think?” He asks as he slowly starts to back you against the wall of his future bedroom.

“It’s perfect.” You whisper as you reach for his hips as your back presses against the wall.

Without a word he picks you up again, returning to your previous position. His lips on your neck again, scruff scratching and tickling your neck. His warm breath soothing the scratches.

He inches his lips back up to meet your lips as you make out again, intensely. Your fingers tangling and lightly tugging his hair. Time stands still as you break down the walls you’ve both been carefully building and defending for over a week.

Suddenly there’s a loud knock at the door that he groans at, annoyed. You pull back and whisper “Who could that be?”

He tilts his ear down slightly disappointed.

“Contractors are here.”

You let out a little sigh and whisper, “I should go then.”

He gently places you down and cups your face. “I’ll see you at dinner.”

“Can’t wait.” He leads you out the door, introduces himself to the contractors and watches you walk down the driveway before closing the door.

11 Perfect Dessert:

It was impossible to focus and get any more work done the rest of the day. Replaying you and Bucky in his house alone over and over again in your mind left you frustrated and not productive at all. You didn't entirely mind, but you wanted him to pay for it one way or another.

Pops requested tacos tonight so that had you in the kitchen doing a lot of prep work, while he sat at the table getting their next business trip booked. They’re headed to NYC and thankfully only a week this time.

“Alright well that’s all done and set, you sure you don’t want to tag along sweetheart?”

As amazing as a trip to NYC would be with Bucky, sneaking around and hiding from your dad and all of their colleagues sounds like a recipe for disaster.

“I am so close to being done with my cookbook Pops. I can’t slow down now.”

“Fair enough.”

And right as you finished with dinner, the front door swings open.

”Sorry I’m late” Bucky says as he comes in a little frantically.

“Nonsense, you’re right on time” You say before looking at him, shirt long gone, just in a white tank top that clings to him perfectly. Causing you to freeze. He smiles at you and tilts his head towards Rob entering the room.

You quickly turn away trying to be nonchalant.

“I’ll go change real quick.” Bucky says, almost sheepishly.

“Ah, no need, let’s not let dinner get cold.” Pops says. You don’t know whether you should be grateful or resentful that he said that.

You show them where everything is and have them build their own tacos from the kitchen.

Bucky stands next to you while Pops makes his plate. He has a musky smell to him. The kind you can tell he was working hard all day to earn. But a scent you also don’t mind smelling at all. Even his BO is hot? Unfair.

Once Pops is finished Bucky gestures for you to get your plate and he follows after you. Before you could say anything Pops starts telling Bucky that their NYC trip is booked, who all they’ll be meeting there and what he has planned for them to accomplish.

You silently join them and try to listen but frankly, their work is extremely boring to you. Looking at Bucky sitting across from you, replaying earlier in your head again.

Suddenly you have an idea, you scooch your chair further under the table and reach your foot out until you find his. You watch him freeze for just a moment, trying to not let Pops notice.

But that’s not good enough for you. You slowly glide your foot up his calf, up and down slowly.

At first he doesn’t react until your movements get slower. That’s when you notice he chews his food slower, he takes longer to blink and takes deeper breaths.

He finishes his water in one big swig then abruptly gets up for a refill.

With Pops back to him he looks at you with a playful glare then silently says something for you to read his lips. ‘You’re a bad girl.’

And even though it was silent, that makes your situation so much worse.

He quickly looks at you for a moment and winks as he sits back down in his seat. Then tells Pops about his meeting with the contractors. How he had to help them take down the two walls to save time. And that he’s even paying extra to have it all done in time for the furniture deliveries.

Then you feel his foot pressing into your leg and gliding up and down, just like you did to him.

Truthfully, you’re enjoying his touch despite how risky this is. This is the bravest you both have gotten.

You know you should be concerned about getting caught. But you’re not. You've been aching for his touch all day. You couldn’t wait to touch him again until your walk later. You’re relieved he felt the same.

“Was even trying to get this one to join us in New York.”

Pops breaks you out of your filthy thoughts a moment.

“Sorry boys, too close to being done with my book. Can’t let up now.”

“That’s exciting!” Bucky says before taking a bite of taco and taking his touch on your leg away.

“It is! I’m so ready.” You respond.

“But, tagging along to New York could be fun too. Could give you a chance to network, get your book out there.”

“That’s true!!” Pops adds.

You give Bucky a little smirk and then squint your eyes at Pops. “What? You guys can’t have fun without me?”

That gets them both to laugh.

“It will be a boring work trip if you don’t go.” Bucky admits, Pops nods his head in agreement.

“Maybe the next one then.”

“I’ll hold you to that!!” Pop says excitedly as he nudges you.

“Looking forward to it.” Bucky whispers.

“Oh! Well you’ll have to come to the celebration when we get back!”

You look at Pop confused and Bucky snaps, pointing at him with a mouth full of tacos.

“Yes, come to the gala!”

“A gala?!”

“Yes, we’ve had a very successful quarter alongside the merger. I wanted to throw a company-wide celebration. To show my gratitude for everyone’s hard work.” Pops explains.

“Calling it a gala makes it sound fancy.”

“It’s black tie.”

“Oh so it’s really fancy! Can I bring Meghan?”

“Plus ones are encouraged. Maybe Bucky will bring his mystery girl and we can finally meet her.”

You choke on your water a second at Pops unknowingly bringing you up.

“We’ll see.” He responds mysteriously.

“Ya know sweetheart, it doesn’t have to be Meghan that you bring. You can bring a real date.”

You roll your eyes as you get up and gather everyone’s plates. “I’ll bring a real date if you bring one Pops.”

That gets a laugh out of Bucky, “freakin got’em dude.”

That gets both you and Pops to burst out laughing with Bucky.

“Now I feel like you two are conspiring against me.”

Bucky shrugs and you shout at Pops from the kitchen, “I just want you to worry about yourself before you worry about me for once.”

Bucky gets up to join you in the kitchen, “Here let me do the dishes, it’s the least I can do.”

You smirk at him and bush your hand up from the sink, to his pants and then up his chest quickly, as if to dry your hand on his clothes. Then leave the dishes for him. Leaving him completely paralyzed by your quick and sneaky teasing.

“Did you make dessert tonight?”

You shake your head no, “No I didn’t give myself enough time, I’m sorry”

Pops shakes his head no, “Never apologize for that, I’m always so grateful for everything you do. No dessert gives me the chance to get to bed early.” He explains getting up and stretching.

You’re a little surprised by that, but also very grateful.

“I’ll see you at the office in the morning, I gotta let the contractors in the house in the morning.”

“Sounds good. Good night sweetheart, thanks for the great meal once again.” He says as he walks past you kissing the top of your head before heading to his room.

“Goodnight pops.”

You stay at the table, watching Bucky finish the dishes. A dish towel draped over his shoulder. Will you ever get used to how every single thing he does is hot as fuck?

“Quit staring.” He says without even looking at you.

“What makes you think I’m staring?”

“I can always tell.”

“And what if I don’t want to?”

That gets him to turn around, leaning back on the counter, pulling the dish towel off to dry his hands then places it on the counter. “Guess I’ll have to give you something to watch then.”

You get up from the table and enter the kitchen, keeping your distance but keep watching him.

“Well?” You softly tease, gesturing to him, waiting for something to watch.

He smiles and lets out a nervous laugh, making your heart skip a beat.

“I have an idea…” You say as you take one step closer. He raises his brows at you waiting for you to continue.

“You could finish what you started earlier..”

That gets him to step closer to you, leaving just a few feet of space between you both.

“If my memory serves me correctly, your foot reached for mine first this evening.”

You shake your head no licking your bottom lip. “Not that. Even earlier.”

He squints at you a moment clearly in thought until you see him realize what you’re referring to. “You mean, back at my place?”

You just nod yes as he closes the space between you both. Tucking hair behind your ear slowly.

“Fuck it” He whispers so softly you almost don’t even hear it, grabs your hand and leads you to the pantry. Pulling you in with him and closing the door behind you.

He pushes you against the door gently, flesh hand holding you still with his grip on your hip. Vibranium hand propping himself over you with his hand next to your head for balance.

“Bucky what are you doing?” You whisper breathless and frantic. You're sure your heart is about to pound out of your chest. As his lips find your neck again. Kissing you even more intensely than he did earlier.

He presses his lips to your ear “Finishing what I started of course.”

You could melt into a puddle right there. Never been so turned on before. You reach out for him, not completely sure what you’re doing other than enjoying all of him.

His flesh hand releases your hips and goes straight for your shorts unbuttoning and unzipping with just one hand.

“Bucky!!!” You whisper frantically and nervously, questioning what he’s doing with the only word you can think of, his name.

“Shhhhh baby. I got you. You want me to finish what I started?” You shyly nod your head yes as you instinctively arch yourself closer to him. Losing all control over yourself.

“Atta Girl. You trust me?” He looks at you with a tenderness behind his eyes. Your mind has forgotten every word you’ve ever known so you just nod your head yes. Eyes never leaving his. He smiles and licks his lips.

“Good.” With his eyes staring deeply into yours, he takes his middle finger into his mouth, sucking on it just a moment. Then pops it out, glides his hand down your body, then puts his finger where you’ve needed it all day. Causing you to arch your back and sigh heavily, almost letting out a moan.

“Shhhh baby, you have to be quiet.” He whispers before kissing your lips and whispering again, “moan into me.”

And you do. Frantically and as softly as you're able to as you dissolve into the pleasure he gives you. Giving you a better orgasm with a single finger than you ever thought possible.

His kissing slows down and inches down your neck and across your collarbone as you start to wind down. Once he can tell you’re recovered, for the most part. He slowly slides his finger out of you, then sucks on it again. Eyes rolling back a moment before he pops his finger out again and grips your hips with both hands.

He presses his forehead to yours and whispers, “the perfect dessert.”

Leaving you putty in his hands.

Part 2

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