“in this instance, i do,” steve turned on his heels, approaching bucky with the swiftness and elegance only elves bore. “because, master barnes, not all good days go seen by the lord of these halls. even though i am not the ruler of mirkwood, i still see the effort you have exuded and feel as though you deserve praise.” elves were not keen on physical touch, least of all when engaging in it with those one did not intend to marry, but steve could not help but drop a palm to bucky’s cheek, thumb brushing along the curve of his cheekbone. perhaps it was quite obvious, then, as his brother by relationship claimed with ire, his feelings for this mirkwood guard. “thank you, for the great deed you have serviced our people. the green wood would be far less safe in hands aside from your very capable own.”
bucky looked at him with a raised eyebrow, “fair enough then i suppose.” bucky said not sure what else to say to him. he watched as he approached unable to tear his eyes from him as he reached him. listening to steve he nodded his head along as he listened to him biting the inside of his cheek. his eyes widened and he licked his lips as he felt his hand reach up and cup his cheek. a shiver went up his spine as steve’s thumb brushed over the curve of his cheekbone. he swallowed adam’s apple bobbing up and down as he looked into his eyes as he studied his facial expression. “you’re welcome. it’s an honor to serve on the guard and protect the people of green wood.” he answered as he looked at him torn between pressing closer to his hand and pulling back from him.
